Speaker Placement

satellite speakers

page 16

Meter (available for less than about $40) and use it to measure the output of the speakers when playing the test tones generated by your processor or receiver. See your processor or receiver's instruction manual for how to perform the calibration. NEVER CALIBRATE LEVELS BY EAR! This meter is a small investment relative to the price of your system, and it is the only way that you can make sure you get the maximum benefit from your investment.

If your M&K Satellites are being used in a Home Theatre system, placement becomes even more important, as you will be balancing four or five (or more) speakers rather than two. The following guidelines are for a five-channel Pro-Logic system, but if your system is not Pro-Logic (does not have a Center channel speaker), ignore the references to the Center channel. The instructions for the other four channels will still be correct.

CENTER CHANNEL

The Center channel speaker in a Pro-Logic system is the most important channel in the system. Very often, this channel produces more output than the left and right channels combined. Therefore, this speaker should be of the highest possible quality, and as similar as possible in frequency response and radiation pattern to the Left and Right speakers. Three identical speakers will give you the most accurate sound.

In addition, it is important to have as much amplifier power as possible for the Center channel. As a minimum, we recommend that the three front channels be identical in power output. Preferably, the Center channel will have the greatest amount of power. If you have less power in the Center channel, understand that this will be the limiting factor in the total output capability of the system when watching and listening to video sources.

M&K Satellites, with their compact size and adjustable tonal balances, are ideal for Center channel use. Because of their Variations of Sound capabilities, they will blend with a very wide range of speakers and can be acoustically balanced to provide a smooth front channel soundfield. M&K Satellites are also offered with optional magnetic shielding to allow them to be used close to a television set.

The Center channel speaker should be located as close as physically possible to the television or projection screen. This usually means that it will be just above or just below the screen, which is ideal. If that is not possible, then just to the left or the right of the screen is next best.

If the television is not in the center of the room (or not centered between the Left and Right speakers), the proper location for the Center channel speaker is still as close as possible to the television screen -- even if that means it is outside either the Left or Right speaker. Remarkably good results can be found in unusual configurations, as long as the Center channel speaker is as close as possible to the screen.

If you have a direct-view television, this may make magnetic shielding very important. See Section 2 (page 3) for a discussion of magnetic shielding in M&K Satellite speakers.

FRONT CHANNELS

The Left and Right front channel speakers in a Home Theatre system can be placed in the same fashion as the Left and Right speakers in a stereo setup, and this is what we recommend. Some listeners, however, may prefer the Left and Right speakers closer together in order to better match the sonic image and screen image sizes.

For example, with a 20" direct-view television, you would want the speakers closer together than you would with a 100" projector. One recommendation is to separate the speakers by 1.5 times the diagonal screen size.

There is a great deal of latitude in this area, as it is really one of personal preference (especially if you use the system to listen to music without video). If you find a sonic image much wider than your screen disconcerting, try moving the Left and Right speakers closer together.

It is also preferred that the speakers be in roughly the same plane as the television screen. If they are much higher or lower than the screen, the effect can be distracting. If this is not practical, angling the speakers to aim at the listening position can help.

When using a Center channel speaker in a Pro-Logic system, you will have a great deal of extra flexibility in placing the Left and Right speakers, as the Center channel speaker will tie most dialog and effects directly to the screen.

SURROUND (REAR) CHANNELS

The Surround channel speakers can be placed in a wide variety of locations in your room to give good performance. In general, the surround speakers should be either adjacent to or behind the main listening position, and located higher than the listener's heads. They can be mounted on either the side walls or on the back wall, flush to the wall, on shelves, on brackets, etc.

A typical location might be speakers on the side walls of the room, one foot from the ceiling and two or three feet from the back wall. This would be appropriate in a room with 8 or 9 foot ceilings, and a main listening position three

S-80 SX-7, S-90, S-1C specifications

MK Sound has long been a name synonymous with high-quality audio solutions, and their product lineup, including the S-1C, S-90, S-80, and the SX-7, showcases the brand's commitment to delivering exceptional audio performance. Each of these models has been engineered with specific technologies and characteristics that cater to both audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

The MK Sound S-1C is a compact center speaker designed to deliver clear vocal reproduction and an engaging soundstage. It features a high-quality 1-inch tweeter and dual 5.25-inch woofers that work in unison to provide a balanced sound profile. This model excels in dialogue clarity, making it an essential component for home theater setups. The S-1C also boasts a frequency response that extends down to 70 Hz, ensuring it can adequately reproduce lower frequencies for a fuller sound experience.

Moving on to the S-90, this floor-standing speaker is a testament to MK Sound's dedication to performance and precision. It features a 1-inch tweeter and three 5.25-inch woofers, allowing for a powerful bass response and detailed high frequencies. With a frequency response of 40 Hz to 20 kHz, the S-90 is designed to fill larger rooms with immersive sound. The speaker's high sensitivity level allows it to produce loud volumes without distortion, making it an excellent choice for music and movie enthusiasts.

The S-80 is another stellar offering, designed as a versatile bookshelf speaker. Like the S-90, it features a 1-inch tweeter paired with dual 5.25-inch woofers. With a compact design, the S-80 can easily fit into smaller spaces while still delivering a wide soundstage and impressive audio fidelity. Its frequency range extends from 45 Hz to 20 kHz, ensuring a broad sonic spectrum. The elegant cabinet design also integrates acoustic dampening technologies to minimize distortion and enhance sound quality.

Finally, the SX-7 is an advanced subwoofer that reinforces MK Sound’s commitment to low-frequency performance. It includes a powerful 12-inch driver and a built-in amplification system that delivers deep, impactful bass. With a frequency response extending down to 25 Hz, the SX-7 is perfect for users seeking a cinematic experience at home. Its adjustable crossover and phase control features allow users to tailor the subwoofer’s performance to their specific room and listening preferences.

In summary, MK Sound’s S-1C, S-90, S-80, and SX-7 represent a harmonious blend of innovative technology and exceptional sound reproduction. Each model is crafted to not only meet but exceed the expectations of discerning audio enthusiasts, making them a powerful addition to any sound system.

MK Sound S-1C, S-90, S-80 SX-7 operation manual Speaker Placement

Models: S-80 SX-7 S-90 S-1C