7 Maximizing Performance
These details are imperative to obtaining optimum results from your Avalon Acoustics loudspeakers.
Break-in
The break-in period is critical to maximizing sonic performance and should take place before other adjustments (see the discussion on page 29). The break-in should begin with three to six hours of quiet music, followed by 200 to 300 hours of loud and dynamic source material.
Separate Left / Right Amplifiers
It is recommended to separate the amplification into left and right channels, by using two mono amplifiers. Separating the left and right channel amplification minimizes cross coupling effects between the channels and provides for better noise rejection, resulting in improved focus, dynamics, and low-level detail. See page 28 (Connecting Speaker Cable to the Amplifier).
Felt Anti-diffraction Masks
The felt anti-diffraction masks are integral elements of the reference system design. Unlike many other products, Avalon Acoustics loudspeakers are designed to be used with the felts in place while listening, and removing them will degrade the system's performance. It is very important that the felt anti-diffraction masks make physical contact with the face of the loudspeakers, as air space between the felt and the speaker face will adversely affect sound quality. Since this is especially important near the tweeter and midrange, applying gentle pressure to the felt near these drivers is recommended. Take care not to damage the transducer diaphragms.
WARNING: The transducer diaphragms are very fragile and are easily damaged. Do NOT touch the diaphragms while positioning and installing felts.
The upper felt is beveled around the openings for the tweeter and midrange drivers. If the felts are removed, be sure to re-install them with the correct inside-outside orientation: the driver openings are beveled on the side that faces the listener (away from the speaker). Figure 3.7 on page 22 displays the proper installation.
