Coherent Array Design
Traditionally, the physical separation of the drivers on a speaker baffle has made it difficult to create an integrated soundstage for different listening positions. To address this problem, the VT-2 features NHT’s proprietary Coherent Array design, an integrated baffle assembly which incorporates multiple drivers spaced closely together. The Coherent Array design configuration offers the advantages of multi-driver systems that deliver dynamic and realistic sound pressure levels over a wide frequency range, while overcoming the acute wave interference problems caused by the driver spacing in traditional designs. The result is uniform frequency response to a wide range of listening positions.
Placement
The Model VT-2 is a floorstanding loudspeaker that requires no stands or mounting hardware other than the included SpikeKit. The VT-2 is designed for indoor use only.
For best results, the VT-2’s are best situated at least 12 inches from the rear wall (due to the rear vent) and at least 30 inches from the side walls. The speakers should be arranged as symmetrically as possible so that the drivers face the listening area without obstruction from furniture. With the VT-2’s set up properly, the side-firing woofers face to the outside (away from the TV) and the tweeters are at approximately ear level. If possible, arrange the speakers so that the distance between the listener and the center of the speaker plane is about 1.5 times the distance between the two speakers (fig. 2). This configuration puts the listener in the center of the stereo image.
The upper portion of the VT-2 features magnetically shielded drivers, allowing the speakers to be placed in close proximity to a television without causing picture discoloration. Ideally, the three front speakers in a home theater system should be placed at equal height, equidistant, and at ear level from the listening position. However, it is frequently not possible to install a center speaker at ear level, as the top surface of most televisions tends to be higher than ear level in the seated position. In this case, it is advantageous to tilt or aim the center speaker toward the listening position.
Experimentation is the key to finding the best arrangement in your listening environment. Be patient, have fun, and remember that small changes in speaker position can sometimes have a significant effect on the sound. For example, moving the speakers nearer to a room boundary (walls, corners) will tend to increase their bass output, but may result in “boomy” or “muddy” sound. Conversely, placing the speakers farther away from room boundaries will tend to decrease their bass output, but may result in greater articulation and better imaging.
In addition, room furnishings play an important role in absorbing and reflecting soundwaves. Midrange and high frequencies in particular will be absorbed by soft furnishings such as sofas, carpets and curtains. A large number of these soft furnishings will dull the sound, while a “live” room with few furnishings will brighten the sound. If you are willing to spend some time fine-tuning the performance of your system, you will enjoy the benefits for years to come.
