POLK AUDIO HISTORY—A PASSION FOR SOUND

Polk Audio was founded in Baltimore in 1972 by Johns Hopkins University graduates Matthew Polk and George Klopfer. Today, Polk Audio is a leading international manufacturer of high quality home, car and multimedia loudspeakers. Polk products emphasize superior sound and build quality, and feature many patented and award-winning innovations. Polk Audio has built a reputation as “The Speaker Specialists.” Polk products are sold throughout the USA, Canada and in over 50 countries around the world. Polk Audio’s mission has always been to build high quality, great sounding speakers at affordable prices. For the people of Polk Audio, building speakers is not just a job; it’s a passion.

SAFE LIMITS OF

OPERATION

Your Polk loudspeak- ers are made with the highest quality materi- als for years of trou- ble-free performance. However, damage to loudspeakers can occur when an ampli- fier, regardless of its wattage, is made to play at higher listening levels than its power can clearly produce (usually beyond the “1 to 2 o’clock” position on the volume con- trol). This results in very high levels of audible distortion, originating in the amplifier, that can add a harsh, gritty sound to music. Contrary to popular belief, a speaker is more likely to be damaged by try- ing to get too much volume from a low- powered amp or receiver than from a high powered one.

PLACEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

FOR THE CSM SERIES CENTER CHANNEL LOUDSPEAKER

The CSM Series Center Channel Loudspeaker incorporates the most effective magnetic shielding available so it can be placed safely on or near your TV or video monitor. If you notice video distortion or discoloration, immediately move the speaker away from the TV and call Polk Audio Customer Service 800-377-7655 (9AM to 6PM EST, US or Canada) or polkcs@polkaudio.com. The most popular placement for a center channel speaker is on top of your TV, anchoring the dialogue and effects to the screen [figure 1]. An alternate placement is on a shelf below your TV [figure 1]. If you are using a front projection TV system, place the center channel speaker on a small stand or table immediately below the bottom of the projection screen, or at ear level behind the screen if your screen is acoustically transparent. Consult the owner’s manual for your screen. Adhesive rubber feet are included with your CSM Center Channel Loudspeaker and may be attached to the bottom of the speaker to protect your furniture and keep the speaker in place.

PROCESSOR MODE CONFIGURATION

FOR THE CSM SERIES CENTER CHANNEL LOUDSPEAKER

The “bass management” or “speaker configuration” menus of most surround receivers offer the choice of “normal” or “wide” modes for center channel operation. In discrete channel digital processors, these modes are referred to as “small” and “large.” Normal (small) mode filters bass frequencies from the center channel speaker and sends them instead to the front left & right main speakers or to the subwoofer output (LFE) jack. Wide (large) mode sends an unfiltered, full range signal to the center channel speaker. Use the Small (normal) mode for optimum center (and surround) channel performance and reliability.

CONNECTING YOUR CSM SERIES LOUDSPEAKER [FIGURE 2]

We recommend 16-gauge or larger speaker wire. Follow the hookup directions included with your receiver. Strip 1/2 inch (12.7mm) of insulation from each of the two conductors of the wire to expose the bare metal and twist each of the individual conductors into single unfrayed strands. Note that one of the terminals on the rear of each speaker is red (+) and the other is black (-). Make certain that you connect the wire from the red (+) terminal of your amplifier or receiver to the red (+) terminal on your speaker and the wire from the black (-) terminal of your amplifier or receiver to the black (-) terminal on your speaker. Most wire has some indicator (such as color-coding, ribbing or writing) on one of the two conductors to help you maintain consistency.

To connect wire to the binding post [figure 3], unscrew the hex nut and insert the bare wire into the hole near the base of the binding post. Do not insert the insulated part of the wire into the hole, as this will not give you a good connection. Twist the hex nut back down the binding post until it firmly meets the wire. Do not over tighten.

To use Banana Plugs (US only): Unscrew the binding post lug nuts completely to expose the binding post plugs (plastic plugs inserted into the binding posts). Carefully pry out the binding post plugs to expose banana plug holes. Screw the lug nuts back on the binding posts and insert banana plugs. (This is for US owners only.)

Contact Polk Audio Customer Ser vice 1 - 800 - 377 - 7655 (Outside US: 410 - 358 - 3600), polkcs@polkaudio . com

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Polk Audio owner manual Safe Limits Operation, Connecting Your CSM Series Loudspeaker Figure
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CSM specifications

Polk Audio CSM is a standout choice for audiophiles and casual listeners alike, offering an exceptional audio experience that caters to a variety of listening preferences. This compact speaker, known for its versatility and performance, serves well in both home theater systems and as part of a stereo setup.

One of the key features of the Polk Audio CSM is its high sensitivity rating, which allows it to produce a robust sound output even with lower-powered amplifiers. This makes it an ideal choice for home theater enthusiasts who want to enjoy dynamic sound without requiring an elaborate setup. The CSM is equipped with a 5.25-inch Dynamic Balance woofer, which provides deep and rich bass while maintaining clarity in midrange frequencies. Complementing the woofer is a 0.75-inch silk dome tweeter that delivers crisp high frequencies, ensuring that music, dialogue, and sound effects are reproduced with remarkable detail.

Polk Audio utilizes innovative technologies in the CSM, such as the Dynamic Balance technology, which is designed to minimize distortion and enhance sound quality. This technology is fundamental to providing an immersive audio experience, as it enables the speaker to produce sound across a wide frequency range without muddiness or harshness. Additionally, the CSM features a ported design that enhances low-frequency response, allowing for an extended bass range that enriches the overall listening experience.

The build quality of the Polk Audio CSM is another aspect that stands out. It boasts a sturdy construction with a sleek design, making it an attractive addition to any living space. The speaker is available in a classic black wood grain finish that blends seamlessly with various decors. It also has versatile placement options, as it can be mounted on a wall or placed on a shelf, providing flexibility in home audio setups.

Furthermore, the CSM incorporates a rear-firing port, which aids in the enhanced bass response while also allowing for placement close to walls without compromising sound quality. Its 8-ohm impedance makes it compatible with a wide range of amplifiers and receivers, making it a practical choice for any audio system.

In conclusion, the Polk Audio CSM is a high-performance speaker that combines quality craftsmanship with advanced audio technology. Its impressive sound reproduction capabilities, sleek design, and adaptability make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their audio experience. Whether used in a home theater or stereo setup, the Polk Audio CSM is sure to impress with its dynamic range and clarity.
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