HOME THEATER

It had long been the practice of stereo buffs to connect their television to the stereo system. The advantage was the use of the larger speakers and more powerful amplifier of the stereo system. Even though the sound was greatly improved, it was still mono and limited by the broadcast signal.

In the late 1970’s and early ‘80’s two new home movie formats became widely available to the public: VCR and laser disc.

By 1985, both formats had developed into very high quality audio/video sources. In fact, the sonic performance of some video formats exceeded audio-only formats. Now, with theater quality sound available at home, the only element missing was the "surround sound" presentation found in movie houses.

Fortunately, "Dolby” and “DTS" encoded movies (which include almost all movies) have the same surround sound information encoded on home releases as the theater films. All that is required to retrieve this information is a decoder and additional speakers and amps to reproduce it.

Home theater is a complex purchase and we recommend that you consult your local MartinLogan dealer as they are well versed in this subject

Each piece of a surround system can be purchased separately. Take your time and buy quality. No one has ever complained that the movie was too real. The following list and descriptions will only give you a brief outline of the responsibilities and demands placed on each speaker.

Front Left and Front Right

If these speakers will also be the same two used for your stereo playback then they should be of very high quality and able to play loud (over 102 dB) and reproduce bass below 80 Hz.

Center Channel.

This is the most important speaker in a video system, as almost all of the dialogue and a large portion of the front speaker information is reproduced by the center channel. It is important that the center speaker be designed by the same manufacturer as the front speakers, and that it is recommended for use as a center speaker. This is not the place to cut corners.

Surround Speakers.

We recommend that the surround speakers play down to 80 Hz or below. The surround speakers contain the information that makes it appear that planes are flying over your head. Some may suggest that this is the place to save money and purchase a small inexpensive speaker. If you choose to do so, be prepared to upgrade in the future as discrete six channel digital encoding becomes available and the demands on the surround speakers increase.

Subwoofer.

With any good surround system you will need a high quality subwoofer (the .1, in a 5.1 channel surround system). Most movie soundtracks contain large amounts of bass information as part of the special effects. Good subwoofers will provide a foundation for the rest of the system.

Figure 18. Prodigy speakers as front channels, MartinLogan Theater as the center channel, MartinLogan Scripts as side surround (effects) channels.

Home Theater 13

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MartinLogan Center Channel speaker user manual Home Theater, Subwoofer
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Center Channel speaker specifications

The MartinLogan Center Channel speaker is a sophisticated audio component designed to deliver a superior listening experience, particularly in home theater setups. Known for its exceptional clarity, dynamic range, and immersive soundstage, this speaker exemplifies high-end audio engineering.

One of the key features of the MartinLogan Center Channel speaker is its use of electrostatic technology. This innovative design employs a thin, lightweight diaphragm suspended between two conductive panels. This allows for superior transient response and reduced distortion, delivering audio that is both clear and detailed. The electrostatic driver provides a unique sound reproduction that immerses the listener in a rich auditory experience, making dialogues crisp and precise.

In addition to its electrostatic driver, the MartinLogan Center Channel speaker typically includes advanced woofers that complement the high-frequency performance. These woofers are engineered to handle lower frequencies effectively, ensuring a balanced sound profile. The integration of these technologies results in a seamless blend of highs and lows, allowing for a full-spectrum audio experience.

The speaker also features a precision-engineered cabinet designed to minimize resonance and reduce colorations. This construction ensures that the sound produced is true to the original recording, preserving the nuances of music and film soundtracks. The cabinet is usually finished to high standards, making it a visually appealing addition to any home theater setup.

Another important characteristic of the MartinLogan Center Channel speaker is its adjustable crossover settings. This allows users to tailor the speaker's performance to fit their specific room acoustics and personal preferences. By fine-tuning the crossover frequency, enthusiasts can achieve an optimal balance across their entire audio system.

Moreover, the speaker is designed with versatility in mind. Its sleek and aesthetically pleasing design allows it to blend seamlessly with modern home decor, while its robust build quality ensures longevity. Whether used in a dedicated home theater, a living room, or a music listening space, the MartinLogan Center Channel speaker delivers an exceptional audio experience that truly elevates the enjoyment of film and music. With its commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and performance, the MartinLogan Center Channel speaker stands as a premier choice for serious audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike.
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