Speaker Phase

Figure 17

Speaker wire has two conductors. One conductor is attached to the negative (-) terminals and one conductor is attached to the positive (+) terminals of both your speaker and your amplifier. Usually, the wire is marked for your convenience. There are different ways wires are marked: a stripe on one wire, a ribbed area of one conductor you can only feel, different col- ors of metal wire on each conductor, or there might be a fabric strand or string wound into one of the conductors. Of course, there are some wires which appear completely identical. Be careful, or you might make a mistake.

If you make a mistake, one speaker will be playing “out-of-phase” with the other speaker. An out-of-phase pair of speakers work against each other and the sound of the two speakers playing together will be lacking in bass and be “phasey” sounding. If you suspect the sound is not right and you cannot see any markings on the wire, try this simple test:

1.Stand half way between the two speakers.

2.Play some music with the amplifier or radio set to Mono.

3.Listen to the richness of the bass and the loudness of the sound.

4.Turn off the amplifier and reverse the con- nections on one amplifier channel only.

5.Repeat the listening test with the same setting of the volume control. When the sound has a richer bass and is slightly louder the speakers are working together or “in-phase”.

Adjusting the Bass and Treble Controls

The HD High Definition loudspeakers feature separate baffle-mounted bass and treble controls for fine tuning after installa- tion. Each control provides for approxi- mately 3dB in steps of 1dB of Bass or Treble reduction. This is useful if the speakers are placed near boundaries (Bass Cut) or in a room with highly reflective surfaces like glass or tile. (Treble Cut). (See Figure 18).

Figure 18

Installation of the Speaker and Grille in New or Existing Construction

HD8, HD5, HD6, HD8.3 specifications

Niles Audio, a reputable name in the world of custom audio systems, offers an impressive lineup of speakers designed to deliver exceptional sound quality for both residential and commercial applications. Among their standout models, the HD8.3, HD6, HD5, and HD8 offer unique features and technologies that cater to different listening environments.

Starting with the Niles Audio HD8.3, this model showcases a sophisticated 3-way design that includes an 8-inch woofer, a 4-inch midrange driver, and a 1-inch silk dome tweeter. This combination allows it to deliver deep bass, articulate mids, and crisp highs, making it ideal for large rooms where powerful sound is needed. The HD8.3 is engineered to integrate seamlessly with custom installations, featuring a low-profile design and paintable grilles.

The HD6 is a versatile option that excels in both performance and aesthetics. With a 6.5-inch woofer, a 4-inch midrange, and a 1-inch tweeter, the HD6 provides a balanced sound profile that works well in mid-sized spaces. One of its standout features is Niles’ proprietary Bass Reflex technology, which enhances low-frequency response without compromising overall clarity.

For those seeking a compact solution without sacrificing performance, the HD5 is an excellent choice. This model is equipped with a 5.25-inch woofer and a 1-inch tweeter, offering a surprisingly rich sound for its size. It is perfect for smaller rooms or areas where space is at a premium, yet still delivers robust audio that can fill a room.

Lastly, the HD8 combines advanced technology with superior craftsmanship. It features an 8-inch driver that provides potent bass while maintaining overall sonic balance. The HD8 is specifically designed for those who demand high fidelity in larger spaces and appreciate the depth of sound that it can provide. Like its counterparts, it also utilizes the same installation-friendly design, making it an ideal choice for custom home theaters.

All four models utilize Niles' high-quality materials and engineering techniques, ensuring durability and longevity. Each speaker is engineered to minimize distortion and deliver clear, true-to-life sound regardless of volume level. With their innovative designs and advanced audio technologies, the Niles Audio HD series continues to set a high standard for audio performance in custom installations. Whether you choose the HD8.3, HD6, HD5, or HD8, you can expect a premium listening experience that brings music and movies to life.