Loudspeaker Connection

Circle Studio Monitors

Circle 5 & Circle 3 - Passive

Choosing an amplifier to match your speakers and application is important. The passive HHB Circle 5 requires connection to a power amplifier with a suggested output between 50 and 200 Watts RMS, and the Circle 3 should be powered by an amplifier with an output of 30 to 100 Watts. Connection is made via a pair of binding posts on the rear of the loudspeaker. Take care to ensure that the positive (red +) terminal on the loudspeaker is connected to the positive

(red +) terminal on the amplifier, and that the negative (black –) terminal on the speaker is connected to the negative (black –) terminal on the amplifier. Connecting one of the loudspeakers out of phase will result in dramatic loss of low frequency signals and an incoherent spatial image. Always use good quality medium or heavy-duty speaker cable, not thin ‘bell’ wire. The main function of a speaker cable is to transfer the maximum amount of current with the minimum amount of distortion. It is therefore preferable to have a cable with a wide cross-sectional area, since this will reduce the electrical resistance. If the cable is too thin, the resistance rises and heating may occur. Where possible, try to use the same length of cable for each speaker.

Circle 1 Active Sub-Woofer

The HHB Circle 1 is an active sub-woofer, containing built-in amplification and active crossover circuitry, designed especially for use with Circle 5 and Circle 3 loudspeakers in a surround sound setup. Its flexible input and output capabilities allow quick and simple connection to the other loudspeakers. The HHB Circle 1 sub-woofer has three distinct modes of operation, set by a switch on the rear panel – these modes are ‘5.1’, ‘B’ and ‘C’. The system is designed for decoded or discreet 5.1 reproduction but also caters for earlier formats of surround sound or bass enhancement in a conventional stereo system. Using the HHB Circle 1 in ‘5.1 mode’ there are two connection methods in a surround sound system. With method 1, the separate sub input allows direct connection from a dedicated line level low frequency effects (or sub) channel on a surround sound decoder, mixing desk, or a multitrack recorder, Using this method, only one physical connection is made to the sub-woofer – the other five loudspeakers are sent their own discrete signals directly from the mixing desk, etc.

Figure6

Circle 5 & Circle 3 – Active

5.1 mode - method 1

Audio connection to the active HHB Circle 5 and Circle 3 is via balanced XLR or unbalanced RCA phono. A switch selects the desired audio input.

The active Circle 5 and 3 should be connected to a suitable mains power supply via an IEC connector. Power should be switched off when connecting or disconnecting any signal to or from the loudspeakers, or when changing the position of the selector switch, since the loudspeakers and internal amplifiers may be damaged. When audio cable runs are long – about ten metres or more (approximately thirty feet) – or there is electromagnetic interference in the vicinity of the cable (from a motor, for instance), it is advisable to use balanced XLR cables so as to avoid any induced noise. The master volume control on the active Circle 5 and 3 acts as a sensitivity control. When at its highest, the input is at maximum sensitivity and the amplifiers will be fully driven by an input of 1V. The best way to set this correctly is to ensure that the monitor output of the mixing desk or other equipment that is driving the speakers, is set to produce a peak output of 1V. The master volume control also allows for balancing between loudspeakers; ideal for use in a surround sound environment.

In the second connection, method 2, all the monitor signal outputs (normally left, centre, right, left surround and right surround) are connected to the inputs on the HHB Circle 1, and the outputs are fed to the loudspeakers. This method filters the low frequencies (below 120Hz) from the loudspeaker feeds. The sub-woofer is always driven from the SUB input – it receives no low frequency information from the other five inputs. This connection method is widely used, since by removing the extreme low frequencies, the five

CIRCLE STUDIO MONITORS specifications

HHB CIRCLE Studio Monitors have emerged as a notable choice for audio professionals, combining innovative technology with exceptional sound fidelity. Designed with the modern studio environment in mind, these monitors deliver remarkable clarity, precision, and accurate sound reproduction, making them an essential tool for music producers, sound engineers, and audiophiles.

One of the standout features of the HHB CIRCLE Studio Monitors is their advanced coaxial driver technology. This design integrates the woofer and tweeter into a single unit, ensuring that the sound waves from both elements arrive at the listener’s ear simultaneously. This results in a more coherent and focused soundstage, allowing for accurate imaging and enhanced stereo depth. Musicians can mix tracks with confidence, knowing they are hearing an authentic representation of their sound.

Another key aspect of the HHB CIRCLE monitors is their robust and well-constructed cabinets. Made from high-quality materials, these cabinets are designed to minimize resonance and distortion, providing a cleaner signal path. The monitors have been perfected to ensure that low-frequency response is both extended and controlled, giving producers the ability to hear the full range of their tracks without overpowering bass or muddiness.

The HHB CIRCLE monitors also feature adjustable room compensation controls, which allow users to fine-tune the response based on their studio environment. This adaptability is essential for ensuring that sound is accurately represented in a variety of room acoustics, whether in a professional studio or a small home setup.

In terms of connectivity, the monitors are equipped with balanced XLR and TRS inputs, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio interfaces and equipment. This versatility makes it easy for users to integrate the CIRCLE monitors into their existing setups without the need for additional adapters.

Furthermore, the design of the HHB CIRCLE Studio Monitors is both sleek and modern, making them visually appealing in any studio space. Their compact size means they can fit easily on desktop setups or in smaller studios without sacrificing sound quality.

In conclusion, the HHB CIRCLE Studio Monitors are a perfect fusion of advanced technology and user-friendly features. With their coaxial driver design, durable cabinets, adjustable settings for room acoustics, and versatile connectivity options, these monitors are ideal for anyone looking to elevate their audio production quality. Whether you’re mixing, mastering, or simply enjoying music, the HHB CIRCLE monitors promise to deliver an unparalleled listening experience.