COLUMN SURROUND SPEAKER

9. SPEAKER DAMAGE & HOW TO AVOID IT

An important factor to consider with any speaker system is the potential for speaker damage. Even though your speakers have high power handling ability, they still can be damaged by relatively low powered amplifiers.

While very few M&K speakers ever need service, the vast majority of those returned are not for manufacturing defects. Instead, they are returned because they have been overdriven, and almost always because the amplifier used was driven into clipping distortion. This damage is abuse, and is not necessarily covered under warranty.

This distortion occurs when the demands of the music are greater than the amplifier's power. It can occur at 20 watts with a small amplifier, or at 400 watts with a large amplifier. Regardless, when this happens, the amplifier's output waveform (which usually looks like a smooth arc) is "clipped" off, exhibiting a flat top instead of the arc.

This flat top contains multiples of the original amplified frequencies, sometimes at higher levels than the original signal itself. For tweeters, this can be very damaging, as this distortion is well above the audible range, where you will be unable to hear it, and where the tweeter is more vulnerable to damage.

When an amplifier clips, its sound becomes harsh and grating, and a break-up is often audible in the bass frequencies. It will become uncomfortable to listen to, compared to a slightly lower volume level. When you are listening at high volume levels, be aware of the onset of clipping distortion, and turn the volume down slightly if the sound takes on the character described above.

When tone controls or equalizers are used to boost frequencies, the problem occurs much more rapidly. Even a small boost of low or high frequencies can easily double the power requirement and lead to amplifier clipping at moderate levels. Therefore, you should use your tone controls judiciously avoiding extreme boosts of the bass and treble controls, especially when you are listening at high volume levels.

The best way to avoid speaker damage is to use common sense. Use moderate boosts of tone controls or equalizers, at the very most. Listen carefully for any harshness and break-up, especially at high volume levels, and turn down the volume when needed. If you cannot get enough volume, you may need to consider a higher-powered amplifier. If you have any questions about this, please contact M&K, and we will be happy to discuss it with you further.

10. IF YOU NEED SERVICE

Contact your dealer or M&K with a complete description of the problem. Please have the unit's model and serial numbers (found on the back of the cabinet), date of purchase, and your dealer's name. You can call M&K between 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM Pacific Time, Monday through Friday, at (818) 701-7010. If you call outside these hours, leave a message, and we will return your call. Alternatively an e-mail can be sent to service@mksound.com.

DO NOT RETURN YOUR SPEAKERS TO THE FACTORY FOR SERVICE WITHOUT OBTAINING PRIOR AUTHORIZATION.

11. M&K TEN YEAR WARRANTY

Your speakers carry a ten (10) year limited parts and labor warranty. This warranty is transferable to new owners. It does not cover abuse, misuse, repairs by unauthorized service stations, speakers without serial numbers, and those damaged in shipping or by accident. If you have warranty questions, please contact M&K.

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MK Sound CS-150, CS-35, CS-29, CS-22 Speaker Damage & HOW to Avoid IT, If YOU Need Service, 11. M&K TEN Year Warranty

CS-150, CS-22, CS-29, CS-35 specifications

MK Sound, a well-respected name in the audio industry, has developed a range of high-performance loudspeakers, including the CS-29, CS-22, CS-150, and CS-35 models. These speakers are designed to deliver premium sound quality and cater to various audio needs, making them suitable for both home theater and professional audio setups.

The MK Sound CS-29 is a compact yet powerful speaker that excels in delivering clear and accurate sound reproduction. Its two-way design features a 5.25-inch woofer and a 1-inch tweeter, allowing for a wide frequency response. The CS-29's innovative cabinet design reduces unwanted resonances, resulting in clean audio playback. Ideal for smaller spaces, it can easily blend in with contemporary décor while providing an impressive audio experience.

Next is the CS-22, which builds on the strengths of the CS-29 but offers a slightly larger profile. Incorporating a 6.5-inch woofer and a 1-inch dome tweeter, the CS-22 excels in producing deeper bass while maintaining clarity in the mids and highs. This model is perfect for those wanting a more robust soundstage without sacrificing detail. Its versatility allows it to function well as either a standalone speaker or as part of a larger home theater system.

The MK Sound CS-150 is tailored for those seeking a more powerful audio solution. Equipped with a dual 6.5-inch woofer configuration and a 1-inch tweeter, the CS-150 delivers remarkable sound pressure levels and dynamic range. This speaker is specifically designed for larger rooms and can handle high volumes without distortion. Its advanced crossover networks ensure a smooth transition between drivers, achieving cohesive sound reproduction across the frequency spectrum.

Finally, the CS-35 stands out as a versatile floorstanding model. It features a sleek design with a pair of 8-inch woofers and a 1-inch tweeter, making it capable of producing deep bass response coupled with the clarity needed for vocal performances and orchestral music. The CS-35 incorporates sophisticated engineering, with a focus on minimizing coloration and enhancing overall soundstage depth.

All of these models utilize MK Sound’s proprietary technologies, including advanced driver materials and optimized cabinet designs, which ensure longevity and minimal distortion. With options ranging from compact to full-sized solutions, MK Sound’s CS series offers a variety of choices to meet the demands of audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Each model emphasizes accuracy, durability, and performance, making them valuable additions to any audio setup.