Signature C1 - Speaker Paradigm - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL Signature C1 Paradigm

Thank you for choosing Paradigm

Reference speakers and congratulations! You are about to experience the stunning difference that these state-of-the-art high-end speakers will make in your music and home theater system. Comprehensive R&D, leading-edge design, use of the finest materials and sophisticated manufacturing and quality control techniques provide vastly superior performance for each component part and at every stage of design. Paradigm

Reference speakers will provide you with stunning high-end sound and unparalleled listening pleasure for many years to come. To achieve all of the exceptional sound that these speakers are capable of providing requires care in installation and operation. Please take the time to read this manual and follow all instructions. If you have further questions, contact your Authorized Paradigm

Break-In Although Paradigm

Reference speakers sound great “out of the carton,” they will sound even better once they are “broken in.” Allow them to play for several hours before you begin any critical listening. High-frequency and midrange drivers use ferro-fluid that can thicken at temper- atures below 10° C (50° F). Surround material used in the bass/midrange driver units is made of a compound that may stiffen in colder temperatures. If your speakers have been transported or stored in the cold, let them warm to room temperature before use. Cleaning Paradigm

Reference speakers have a durable premium finish. To clean, use a damp soft cloth. Do not use a strong or abrasive cleaner. Avoid getting any part of the speaker system wet. Do not place wet objects (drinking glasses, potted plants, etc.) on top of the speakers—if allowed to soak in, even a small amount of water may permanently damage the speaker enclosure. Speaker Grilles Paradigm

Reference speakers are meant to be played with their grilles on. These grilles are designed to eliminate edge diffraction—the sound reflections that occur at the outer edges of the front of the enclosure which interfere with the drivers’ primary sound output. The grille frames fit flush to each driver and have rounded outer edges to ensure that driver output does not encounter hard reflective edges. Floorstanding Spikes Isolation spikes are an option included with Paradigm

Reference floor- standing models. We highly recommend installing these spikes as they will improve the sound of your speakers by isolating them from the floor. The most convenient time to install spikes is during the unpacking process. Refer to the “Unpacking Instructions (pictorial).

RECYCLING AND REUSE GUIDELINES FOR EUROPEIn accordance with the European Union WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) directive effectiveAugust 13, 2005, we would like to notify you that this product may contain regulated materials which, upon disposal, according to the WEEE directive, require special reuse and recycling processing. For this reason Paradigm Electronics Inc. (manufacturers of Paradigm speakers and Anthem Electronics) has arranged with our distributors in European Unionmember nations to collect and recycle this product at no cost to you. To find your local distributor please contact the dealer from whom you purchased this product or go to our website at www.paradigm.com. Please note that the product only falls under the WEEE directive. When disposing of packaging and other shippingmaterial we encourage you to recycle through the normal channels. 2UNPACKING INSTRUCTIONS (pictorial)

(if included with your model)4 Fig. 1 Fig. 1a Fig. 1b Fig. 2

SPEAKER PLACEMENT AND CONNECTION

(pictorial) Fig. 3 Fig. 45 Fig. 5a For Center Channels with Outrigger Feet Fig. 5c Attaching the Tilt Bracket when the Center Channel is positioned below a Television/Display – included on models with cradles only Fig. 5b For Center Channels with Cradles STEP 1 Remove grille. To prevent scratching the finish, carefully lay the speaker on a blanket or soft drop cloth with cradles positioned for easy access, as shown. STEP 3 Push down firmly with both thumbs where indicated (see inset) and bracket will snap into place. Repeat steps 1 to 3 for second bracket. IMPORTANT! Should you wish to remove the tilt bracket at a later date, you must unscrew the entire cradle/tilt bracket assembly. DO NOT attempt to pry off the bracket as this will damage the cradle. Note: Bracket not for use with a Paradigm Stand USE OF THIS TILT BRACKET IS RECOMMENDED, BUT OPTIONAL STEP 2 Position bracket over cradle, as shown. Align rear posts in bracket with rear holes in cradle (see inset). Press down firmly to engage posts. Front posts will automatically align.6 Fig. 6 Attaching the TV-Top/Shelf Support (selected models only) Hidden cable channel

SPEAKER PLACEMENT AND CONNECTION

(pictorial) cont’d.7 Fig. 7a Fig. 7b Fig. 7cFig. 8a Position bracket for horizontal or vertical (seeInset 2) placement and mark center hole. Pressanchor bolt firmly into drywall and screw in. Followwith flathead screw (see ‘WARNING!’ at right)

Fig. 8b Ensure bracket is level, then mark the holes foranchor bolts. Fig. 8d Reposition bracket as shown. Align screw holes inbracket over anchor bolts. Insert screws. Fig. 8c Allow bracket to rotate clockwise, then screw inanchor bolts. IMPORTANT NOTES: Please read before installing brackets Paradigm DOES NOT supply hardware for mounting brackets to the wall. Mounting hardware shown is an example only; hardware will vary depending on wall type. If installing in drywall, thickness should be 1/2˝ (13 mm) or 5/8˝ (16 mm) only. Screws must be long enough to go through anchor bolts and firmly into drywall (see Inset 1). A specific clearance is required when sliding on-wall speakers onto bracket. For more information see Fig. 8g. Inset 1 WARNING! Screws must be inserted straight andfully tightened to ensure correct operation of bolts. Inset 2 Metal tabs must sit at outer edges (as shown) when brackets are installed vertically.

BRACKET INSTALLATION FOR ON-WALL SPEAKERS

(pictorial) PARTS INCLUDED (ONE SPEAKER):

• 1 – Wall-mounting bracket • 1 – Angle bracket with 2 screws • 1 – Hex key REQUIRED, NOT INCLUDED (ONE SPEAKER):

• 5 – Anchor bolts (minimum load rate 25 lb / 11.3 kg) • 5 – Flathead (Countersunk) screws. (TIP: Paint to match Black speaker finish) (Note position of metal tab) 8Fig. 8e

ADJUST BRACKETS TO ACHIEVE

DESIRED ANGLE OF TILT: a) Tilt speakers inward for better imaging; b) Tilt center speaker up or down to optimize clarity and intelligibility or; c) Mount speaker parallel to the wall (horizontally or vertically) , using bracket at the 0° position. Align screws with desired angle position (refer to information at far right) and screw in. Fig. 8f Connect speaker following the information included later in the manual. (Vertical Placement) Using an "in and sideways" motion slide speaker onto bracket; tighten assembly locking screw. Fig. 8g (Horizontal Placement) Using an "in and down" motion slide speaker onto bracket; tighten assembly locking screw. Minimum clearance between edge of TV and center of bracket is 6-7/8˝ (175 mm)Minimum clearance6-7/8˝ (175 mm)

Reference speakers are efficient and can be driven to loud listening levels with moderate amplifier power. They are also able to handle the output of very powerful amplifiers. To prevent damage to your speakers, please read the following guidelines before hooking them up. Amplifier Distortion – The #1 Culprit! Amplifier distortion is the principal cause of speaker damage. When listening at loud levels your amplifier may run out of clean power. It will then begin to produce distorted power several times greater than its rated output power. This will damage any brand of speaker very quickly! (See your Dealer for amplifier recommendations.) More Powerful Amplifiers are Safer A 40 watt/channel amplifier will have substantial distortion above 40 watts. If driven to 50 watts, this amplifier will deliver distorted power—which will damage the speaker! A 100 watt/channel amplifier will have substantial distortion above 100 watts, but very low distortion below 100 watts. Therefore, when the speaker requires 50 watts, this more powerful amplifier will deliver clean power and speaker damage is less likely to occur. Volume Control Do not be fooled by the Volume Control of your receiver/preamplifier. It only adjusts listening level—it is not a “power-output” dial. The amount of amplifier power actually used at a given Volume Control setting depends solely on the nature of the music you are listening to. At a given Volume Control setting a quiet section of music will use less amplifier power than a loud section. With typical pop-rock, jazz or large scale classical music, the rated output power of many receivers/amplifiers is often reached when the Volume Control is between the “11 and 1 o’clock” settings (with bass/treble and loudness controls not used—otherwise rated power may be reached at even lower Volume Control settings). Remember, all amplifiers produce distortion when operated beyond their rated output power. The resulting distortion will damage all speakers! Exercise caution! If you listen at loud levels, be careful to listen for the point of audible distortion—if the speakers begin to sound distressed turn the Volume Control down or your speakers and/or amplifier(s) will be damaged! This type of damage constitutes abuse and is not covered by the warranty. If louder volumes are desired, obtain a more powerful amplifier. There is a Limit! Although more powerful amplifiers are safer, there is a point at which you could have more power than the speaker can handle. At that point you will overpower the speaker and damage it. Exercise caution! At loud levels do not increase bass/treble controls from zero and ensure that all loudness/ contour/bass EQ buttons are off (otherwise rated output power will be reached at lower volume control settings). If you listen at loud levels, watch for excessive visible cone excursion (grille movement) from the woofer— then turn the Volume Control down. The Right Amount of Power A power-range rating is given as a guide to indicate the approximate minimum and maximum power input of your Paradigm

Reference speakers. Amplifiers that exceed your speaker’s power-range rating are recommended. Their greater power reserves provide better sound. However, exercise caution! Use the speakers within their power-range rating to prevent damage (keep listening levels below the point of excessive woofer cone excursion).

Reference speakers are designed to provide superior high-end sound in a wide variety of domestic settings. However, it is important to note that listening room construction, dimensions and furnishings all play a part in the quality of sound you will ultimately achieve. Your listening room will impose its own character on the performance capabilities of any speaker system. The extra care you take in correctly positioning the speakers will result in greater listening enjoyment. Keep the following guidelines in mind when deciding on the best speaker placement:

• Mid and high frequencies are affected by the amount of soft furnishings in your room—curtains, carpets, sofas, wall coverings, etc. An excess of such items can result in a somewhat dull sound. The same room without any soft furnishings can produce a bright overall sound. The typical quantity of soft furnishings found in most living situ- ations provides the right acoustic characteristics to allow the speakers to sound balanced;

• Concrete floors and walls tend to aggravate low-frequency standing wave problems and are less preferred;

• Rooms where height, width and length are similar should be avoided as they can exhibit significant low-frequency standing wave problems. This may result in reduced clarity. If no other room is possible, experiment with speaker placement to minimize acoustic problems. ROOM ACOUSTICS11 SPEAKER PLACEMENT Paradigm

Reference front speakers are designed to allow flexible placement while providing a very large window of sound throughout your listening room. To ensure the best high-end performance possible however, we strongly recommend that you observe the following placement guidelines: Accurate Timbre (Fig. 1) For the most accurate and natural timbre, place Paradigm

Reference Front speakers so that their high-frequency drivers are approximately at ear level. We recommend placing bookshelf models on Paradigm

speaker stands (sold separately) ; however, they can also be placed on bookshelves so that high-frequency drivers are approximately at ear level. Balanced Bass Performance (Fig. 1a, 1b) Placing front speakers in corners will over-emphasize bass and reduce overall clarity. Avoid corner placement (Fig. 1a). Position the front speakers 8 in (20 cm) or more from the wall behind the speaker, and as much as possible from either side wall while still following the guideline in Fig. 1b. This will ensure better bass performance and optimal midrange clarity. Optimal Imaging (Fig. 2) Measure the distance from your main listening area to the front speakers (“X”). For best imaging, place speakers from three-quarters of that distance up to that same distance from each other (3/4 of “X” to “X”). To further optimize imaging, turn speakers slightly inward so they point toward the listening position with their axes crossing just behind it. ON-WALL FRONT SPEAKERS (Fig. 3) Paradigm

Reference On-Wall Front Left and Right speakers allow higher than usual placement of the high-frequency drivers, a particularly important consideration when wall mounting. Mounting the speakers farther apart on the wall than the width of your TV will promote an even wider, deeper listening window. Keeping this in mind, measure the distance from your main listening area to the front speakers ("X"). For best imaging, mount speakers on the wall from three quarters of that distance up to the same distance from each other (3/4 of "X" to "X"). For more information see the section on wall mounting later in the manual. CENTER-CHANNEL SPEAKER (Figs. 4 and 5a, b, c) Paradigm

Reference center-channel speakers are designed to provide a large, wide listening window, allowing listeners throughout the room to hear center- channel information with unprecedented clarity and intelligibility. They can be placed on a shelf or directly on top of your TV (Fig. 4). Selected models include outrigger feet for this purpose (Fig. 5a), other models include stability cradles (Fig. 5b). Models with outrigger feet can also be used with the small rubber feet (included) and the outrigger feet removed (not shown) . If your model includes cradles, the rubber pads (included) must be used for stability (Fig. 5b). With a front-projection system, speakers can also be mounted on a matching Paradigm

stand (sold separately)

Make sure the center-channel speaker is approximately the same distance away from the primary listening position as your front speakers. (Some AV receivers/ processors can electronically adjust for differences in distance.) See section below for positioning models with cradles directly below

TELEVISION/DISPLAY If your center channel is to be positioned below a television or display we highly recommend you use the tilt bracket supplied. By tilting the speaker up, you will further optimize dialog clarity, intelligibility and timbre. For complete details and tilt bracket assembly, refer to Fig. 5c earlier in this manual.

STAND If your center channel features cradles (Fig. 5b) they must be removed before the speaker can be used on an optional Paradigm

speaker stand. To remove cradles, use the hex key included in the hardware package that came with your speaker. For more detailed information on removing cradles, refer to the assembly instructions included with the stand. ON-WALL CENTER-CHANNEL SPEAKER (Fig. 3) Mount your Paradigm

Reference on-wall center-channel speaker on the wall horizontally, directly above or below your TV, whichever position is closer to ear level. This will ensure the most uniform timbral response with the rest of your system. The speaker should be about the same distance away from the primary listening area as your front Left and Right speakers. (Some AV receivers/processors can electronically adjust for differences in distance.) For more information see the section on wall mounting later in this manual. This on-wall speaker can also be placed on top of a television or shelf (see the following section)

FRONT SPEAKERS (Left/Right)12 Turn all amplifier(s) OFF before connecting your speakers. This will avoid damage which could result from accidental shorting of speaker cables. SPEAKER CONNECTION Paradigm

Reference speakers have separate terminals for the high-frequency input and low/mid-frequency input. These terminals are connected together externally with jumper bars; the speaker cable (+) and (-) can then be connected to either input terminal pair for standard connection. Removing the jumper bars gives separate access to each frequency section of the speaker, which then allows for two optional connection configurations, as outlined on the next page—bi-wiring and bi-amplifying. For optimum sound reproduction the use of high-quality speaker cable is essential (see Dealer for more information) . The chart at right identifies the minimum gauge requirements for various lengths. Correct polarity (or phase), is critical for proper soundstage imaging and bass performance. If you hear a distinct lack of bass and a dislocated stereo image (from the front speakers), then one or more of your speakers may have been connected out of phase (their polarity is reversed). Connect one speaker at a time to ensure proper connection of every channel. The red (+) amplifier terminal must be connected to the red (+) speaker terminal. The same applies to the black (-) terminals. Make sure all wires are firmly fastened. Repeat this connection procedure for each speaker in your system. Standard Connection for Speakers with Two Input Teminals (Fig. 7a) Leave the jumper bars attached and connect using either set of input terminals. Your speakers’ binding posts can be used with spade, banana or pin connectors, as well as with bare wire. Tighten the posts firmly by hand—do not over tighten!

Paradigm DOES NOT supply hardware for mounting brackets to the wall. If you are not comfortable performing the on-wall mounting procedure, contact a professional installer (see Dealer)

A minimum amount of clearance is required to install your speakers or remove them from the wall at a later date (see Fig. 8g).

USING ADJUSTABLE ON-WALL BRACKETS

(included) Brackets (included) must be used when mounting On-Wall Left and Right speakers and On-Wall Center Channel. If desired, for better imaging or to optimize clarity you can adjust the angle at which your speakers sit on the wall. You can:

• Tilt front Left and Right speakers slightly inward for better imaging (Fig. 8e, inset)

• Tilt the center speaker up or down to further optimize clarity and intelligibility (Fig. 8e, inset) For complete details on wall-mounting your speakers see Pictorial Illustrations. ATTACHING THE TV-TOP/SHELF SUPPORT (Fig. 6) WALL MOUNTING (Figs. 8a-8g) Your On-Wall Center-Channel speaker can also be placed on top of a TV, or on a shelf using the TV-Top/Shelf Support included. IMPORTANT! If you are placing your speaker on top of a TV or shelf, for stability you must use the TV-Top/Shelf Support included. Installation is as follows:

1. Connect speaker as outlined in “Speaker Connection” later in this manual;

run cable along channel visible on inside edge of the pre-assembled Support.

2. Using the two screws

(included) attach Support to the back of the speaker.

3. Apply self-adhesive rubber pads

(included) to bottom of speaker, as shown, so that speaker sits securely and cannot slip.

4. To adjust the speaker’s angle of tilt

(if desired) , loosen screws and rotate bracket up or down to achieve desired angle (not shown) . Retighten screws.13 This section outlines other connection options. DO NOT attempt to bi-wire or bi-amplify unless you have removed the jumper bars. Bi-wire Connection (Fig. 7b) Bi-wiring can improve clarity and openness, with less grain and more solidity to the bass. Two cables are required for each speaker that you bi-wire. Bi-amp Connectio n (Fig. 7c) Passive bi-amping offers a dramatic improvement in clarity, openness and detail, with much better bass solidity and definition. The presentation of music and movie soundtracks is simply more intelligible and transparent. With passive bi-amping, the speaker’s internal passive crossovers remain connected. An external electronic crossover is not required and cannot be used (there is no direct electrical access to individual drive units). This saves expense and setup difficulties. Passive bi-amping optimizes your speaker to achieve the best possible high-end performance. To bi-amplify, two power amplifiers are required. Connection can be either vertical or horizontal. IMPORTANT! When bi-amping, always use amplifiers with identical gain. If uniform amplifier gain is not maintained the speaker-to-speaker balance will be incorrect when vertically bi-amped, or the speaker system’s frequency balance will be incorrect when horizontally bi-amped. To prevent problems use identical amplifiers (Brand and Model) and in identical operating modes (single channel or bridged). Vertical Bi-amplification dedicates one amplifier to each speaker. This configuration provides complete channel separation, which optimizes your system’s imaging ability. Connect your speakers to one amplifier at a time. Horizontal Bi-amplification dedicates one amplifier to your speakers’ mid/ low-frequency inputs and another to their high-frequency inputs. This con- figuration can maintain better clarity when listening at loud levels—if low- frequency demands cause amplifier clipping, distortion will still be kept away from high-frequency drivers. Connect your speakers to one amplifier at a time. Following the instructions in this Owner’s Manual, once you have your speakers positioned in the room and have set speaker distances and speaker level calibration with your Processor or A/V Receiver, it’s time for a little fine tuning. Since Paradigm

Reference speakers are designed to provide exceptional high-end performance in a variety of room settings, fine tuning is simply a matter of making slight adjustments to their placement in the room, if necessary. Start with just the front speakers and listen to familiar music in stereo. The soundstage will be both wide and deep, but this can be tuned to your personal preference by adjusting the toe-in (the amount the speakers are turned toward the listening area). More toe-in will increase image depth and localization, less toe-in will increase image width. Adjust the toe-in in small increments, listening each time, until you achieve the soundstage balance you prefer. Toe-in is not applicable to the other speakers in your system since their position and sound distribution pattern is fixed. Fine tuning for the center channel is simply a matter of making level adjust- ments that may be required for any particular multichannel music or movie program. If required, adjust Processor or A/V Receiver levels to ensure that there is always a cohesive overall soundstage. FINE TUNING SOLUTIONPROBLEM TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE No Sound from One or More Speakers No Sound Lack of Bass or Dislocated Image Make sure receiver, preamp or amplifier is plugged in and turned on. Check power outlet at the wall is working. Are headphones plugged in, or is the system on Mute? Re-check all connections. Check your balance control or VC-150 Volume Control (if using). Check that all power cords are properly plugged in and functioning. Swap a non-working speaker with one that works to determine if the problem is with the speaker or something else (i.e. wiring, amplifier). One or more speakers may be connected out of phase (their polarity is reversed). Re-check to ensure that each speaker’s cable is connected with correct polarity: red (+) to red (+) and black (-) to black (-).14 Paradigm

Reference speakers covered in this manual are warranted to be and remain free of manufacturing and/or material defects for a period of five (5) years from the date of original purchase. Within the time period specified, repair, replacement or adjustment of parts for manufacturing and/or material defects will be free of charge to the original owner. Thermal or mechanical abuse/misuse is not covered under warranty. Limitations:

• Warranty begins on date of original retail purchase from an Authorized Paradigm

Dealer only. It is not transferable;

• Warranty applies to product in normal home use only. If product is subjected to any of the conditions outlined in the next section, warranty is void;

• Warranty does not apply if the product is used in professional or commercial applications. Warranty is Void if:

• The product has been abused (intentionally or accidentally);

• The product has been used in conjunction with unsuitable or faulty equipment;

• The product has been subjected to damaging signals, derangement in transport, mechanical damage or any abnormal conditions;

• The product (including cabinet) has been tampered with or damaged by an unauthorized service facility;

• The serial number has been removed or defaced. Owner Responsibilities:

• Provide normal/reasonable operating care and maintenance;

• Provide or pay for transportation charges for product to service facility;

• Provide proof of purchase (your sales receipt given at time of purchase from your Authorized Paradigm

Dealer must be retained for proof-of- purchase date). Should servicing be required, contact your nearest Authorized Paradigm

Dealer, Paradigm Electronics Inc. or Import Distributor (outside the U.S. and Canada) to arrange, bring in or ship prepaid, any defective unit. Visit our website, www.paradigm.com for more information. Paradigm Electronics Inc. reserves the right to improve the design of any product without assuming any obligation to modify any product previously manufactured. This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties expressed or implied, of merchantability, fitness for any particular purpose and may not be extended or enlarged by anyone. In no event shall Paradigm Electronics Inc., their agents or representatives be responsible for any incidental or consequential damages. Some jurisdictions do not allow limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so this exclusion may not apply to you. Retain this manual and your sales receipt for proof of warranty term and proof of purchase. LIMITED WARRANTY15 NOTES16 NOTESParadigm Electronics Inc. Au Canada : 205, boul. Annagem, Mississauga (Ontario) L5T 2V1• Aux É.-U. : MPO Box 2410, Niagara Falls, NY 14302 SÉRIES STUDIO ET SIGNATURE : ENCEINTES AVANT