POWER REQUIREMENTS

It is important to have enough power to play at the level you desire without distortion. If high sound levels are desired, the PowerPointÕs are designed to be used with amplifiers rated up to 200 watts per channel (into 8 ohms). If you play the speakers more loudly than the volume the amplifier can cleanly produce, the amplifier will produce overload (clipping) distortion. The sound will become compressed, strained, and in extreme cases, obviously distorted. This distortion is actually non-musical additional energy and since it is concentrated in the high frequency region where the speaker is least able to handle it, tweeters can be damaged in extreme cases.

Keep in mind that sound quality is usually much more important than sound quantity. There can be large differences in the sonic performance of two amplifiers of equal power, and this is more important than large differences in power. Most everyone will be happier with a 100 watt amplifier of high sonic quality than a 200 watt amplifier of mediocre sonic quality. For this reason, we feel there is no substitute for listening in making your amplifier decision.

The question Òhow much power do I need?Ó does not have the simple answer most people expect because it is not determined only by the loudspeakerÕs efficiency, but also by the volume desired and the size of the room. If all three factors are average, about 100 watts per channel is required. Each factor can raise or lower this amount by about three times.

1)Usually, people who ÒdonÕt like music loudÓ can decrease their power to about one-half. Also, people who like music loud should increase their power by 2 times or more. Most people fall within a normal range.

2)A speaker with a low efficiency of 84 dB/W-m will require twice the power of an average 87 dB/W-m speaker and one with a high rating of 90 dB/W-m will require only half the power of an average speaker. The PowerPlane is of above average efficiency (89 dB) and therefore requires less than an average amount of power for average volume levels.

3)A small room will need less power for a given loudness level than a large room. A very small room of 1000 cu ft (11' x 11' with an 8' ceiling) will require about half the power of an average size room. A large room of 6000 cu ft (20' x 30' with a 10' ceiling) will require twice the average power. If the listening room is connected to another room by a large open area, the required power will increase, but not by the amount of the combined room volume. If the room has a ÒdroppedÓ ceiling with light panels, the ceiling will be almost transparent acoustically and the space above the ceiling should be added. If the panels are heavy they will act as a more normal ceiling.

In conclusion, a person who doesnÕt like to play music very loudly and has a small room can get quality sound with the PowerPlane with as little as 30 watts whereas a person who sometimes likes to play loudly and has a large room may need 200 watts or more.

GRILLE

The PowerPointÕs grille is magnetically attached to the cabinet and can be removed by gently prying the grille forward. The PowerPlane grille can be made more opaque for visual reasons, but with a small amount of sonic degradation, by adding the included ÒscrimÓ to the back of the grille. To install the scrim, first remove the metal grille and apply a coating of spray adhesive to the rear of the grille. After the adhesive becomes tacky, press the scrim to the grille starting at the center and working outward making sure the scrim adheres to the grille everywhere it makes contact.

PAINTING THE FRONT PANEL

The PowerPlane is shipped with an off-white finish, but can be painted any desired color. To paint the speaker, first remove the grille and then the driver trim ring by removing the six mounting screws. Place the mask over the driver, then place the trim ring on top of the mask. Painting should be done prior to installing the scrim, as mentioned above.

SERVICE

Painting mask placement

 

If your speaker system requires service, contact your authorized THIEL dealer. If you need to contact THIEL, service information and technical support is available at (606) 254-9427, Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time, or via e-mail at service@thielaudio.com.

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Thiel Audio Products PowerPlane manual Power Requirements, Grille, Painting the Front Panel, Service

PowerPlane specifications

Thiel Audio has long been recognized as a purveyor of high-quality audio products, and their PowerPlane series stands out as a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and performance. The Thiel Audio PowerPlane is a highly-regarded loudspeaker that embodies advanced technology and meticulous engineering, making it a favorite among audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike.

One of the main features of the PowerPlane is its unique planar design. Unlike conventional speakers that use dynamic drivers, the PowerPlane employs a flat diaphragm that moves in a controlled manner to produce sound. This design allows for incredibly accurate sound reproduction with minimal distortion, resulting in a clearer and more lifelike listening experience. The planar technology enables a wider sweet spot, so listeners can enjoy exceptional sound from various positions in the room.

The PowerPlane is also known for its exceptional frequency response. With the capability to reproduce deep bass notes without the need for a separate subwoofer, this speaker offers a full-range listening experience. The combination of planar drivers and Thiel's proprietary crossover technology ensures a seamless transition across frequencies, allowing listeners to appreciate the nuances of their favorite recordings.

Another standout characteristic of the PowerPlane is its elegant and minimalist design. The sleek and unobtrusive appearance enables it to blend effortlessly into any décor. This aesthetic appeal doesn’t compromise performance; instead, it highlights Thiel Audio’s philosophy of delivering beauty in both form and function.

Additionally, the PowerPlane incorporates robust build quality. Constructed from high-grade materials, these speakers are designed to stand the test of time, providing longevity and consistent performance. The attention to detail in both construction and sound engineering guarantees that users can enjoy their audio investment for many years.

Thiel Audio also emphasizes customization and integration with other audio systems. The PowerPlane can be easily paired with various amplifiers, allowing users to create a system that fulfills their personal audio preferences. Its versatile nature makes it suitable for various listening environments, whether in dedicated home theaters or casual living spaces.

Ultimately, the Thiel Audio PowerPlane represents a perfect blend of cutting-edge technology, aesthetic appeal, and superior sound quality. The careful engineering that goes into every unit ensures that listeners experience their music in the most authentic way possible, making the PowerPlane a noteworthy choice for anyone serious about audio performance.