Setting the Acoustic Space Switch

The Acoustic Space switch is a 3-position switch used to select the "Acoustic Space" in which the speaker is placed—Half Space (speakers against wall, 0dB position), Three-Quarter Space (speakers in corners or close to wall, -2dB position), or Full Space (speakers away from wall, -4dB position). The benefits of using this switch are explained in the following paragraphs.

The bass response of any loudspeaker will differ depending on its placement. If the speaker is placed close to a wall, the bass will sound louder than when it is placed on a speaker stand. The technical term for this phenomenon is called Diffraction Spreading and can be explained as follows:

Below a certain frequency, the sound emitted from a speaker begins to change its polar radiation pattern, from 180 degrees to 360 degrees. With the speaker placed close to a wall, its energy can be physically radiated only forward, thereby limiting the radiation polar pattern to 180 degrees.When the speaker is placed on a stand, the low-frequency energy is free to radiate in 360 degrees. While there is a theoretical difference of about 6dB in low-frequency response between these two placements, the loss (from the wall placement to the speaker stand placement) is, in practice, normally found to be about 4dB.

Note: At medium and high frequencies, Diffraction Spreading losses do not occur because the front baffle of the speaker affects low-frequency energy radiation much like a large area (like a wall). So at medium and high frequencies, the radiation pattern is always limited to 180 degrees.

The Acoustic Space switch compensates for (Diffraction Spreading) low-frequency loss by introducing a complimentary correction filter with the three filter settings (0dB, -2dB and - 4dB) and allows you to place the BX5 speakers close to a wall, on speaker stands, or somewhere in between these two (such as on a small table top) with the same resulting low-frequency output produced from each placement.

10

Page 9 Page 11
Page 10
Image 10
M-Audio BX5 user manual Setting the Acoustic Space Switch
Page 9 Page 11

BX5 specifications

The M-Audio BX5 is a highly regarded studio monitor that has become a popular choice among both amateur and professional audio engineers. Renowned for its precise sound reproduction and robust build quality, the BX5 is designed to meet the demands of modern music production, making it an essential tool in any studio setup.

One of the standout features of the BX5 is its bi-amplified design, which utilizes separate amplifiers for the low and high frequencies. Each speaker is driven by a powerful 70-watt Class A/B amplifier that provides a clear and accurate response across the frequency spectrum. This design minimizes distortion and allows for better overall sound clarity, making it easier for engineers to mix and master recordings.

The BX5 boasts a 5-inch polypropylene low-frequency driver that delivers a tight and punchy bass response, perfect for genres that rely on rhythm and low-end clarity. Complementing this is a 1-inch silk dome tweeter, which offers a smooth and detailed high-frequency output. Together, these components ensure that the BX5 can reproduce a wide range of frequencies, from deep bass notes to sparkling highs.

Another notable characteristic is the frequency response range of the BX5, which spans from 50 Hz to 22 kHz. This wide range allows users to hear the full spectrum of their audio, providing a more accurate mixing environment. In addition, the BX5 features a rear-firing bass port that enhances low-frequency performance by providing increased bass response. However, this design requires careful placement in a room to avoid unwanted resonance.

The cabinet of the BX5 is constructed from high-density MDF, which helps to reduce cabinet resonance and ensures a clean sound reproduction. Its sleek, curved design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the reduction of undesirable standing waves, further improving sound quality.

Connectivity is straightforward with balanced XLR and 1/4-inch TRS inputs, making it adaptable to a variety of audio interfaces and setups. The BX5 is designed to fit seamlessly into any studio environment and can be used for both near-field and mid-field monitoring.

Overall, the M-Audio BX5 stands out as a reliable and versatile studio monitor, combining advanced technologies and thoughtful design to deliver superior sound quality. Its affordability without compromising on performance makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their audio production experience.
Top Page Image Contents