EX3MA - Speaker Sonus Faber - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL EX3MA Sonus Faber

thank you for choosing Sonus faber Ex3ma.

Sonus faber speakers are designed to meet our customers' highest expectations immediately. As our aim is to ensure you get the best possible result when listening in complete safety, please read this instruction manual carefully before installation.

Should you have any doubts or enquiries, please contact the technical staff of your sales point, the official Sonus faber distributor in your country, or contact Sonus faber's customer service directly by writing to: [e-mail].

Finally, we warmly suggest registering your speaker online, on the www.sonusfaber.com site.

Enjoy your music!

Verehrter Kunde,

To celebrate its 30th anniversary, Sonus faber has decided to pay homage to one of its most advanced projects.

Extrema is back! The speaker that entered Sonus faber's history as one of the best products of speakers design, a myth for all enthusiasts, is now integrated with new solutions in terms of technology, design and materials use.

Carbon fibre, red spruce wood, aluminium, gun Metal and Beryllium: these are very different materials and yet are used in an innovative manner, by cross-breeding and matching.

The result is an absolutely new and surprising speaker that nevertheless preserves the typical aspects of the classic Sonus faber style, for example the sincere love for artisan work and the care taken with each detail. Just like all the other creations that Sonus faber has made over these 30 years of history, even Ex3ma remains faithful to the main duty of a prestigious speaker: taking the listener to the original sound event, reproducing all the emotions of live events.

TECHNOLOGY

Ex3ma is a simple project with a crossover frequency, two active drivers and a damped passive radiator. The passband can be maximised by maximising the inner volume in a similar manner and by implementing the variable damping passive radiator, which is made possible by activation of the Electro Magnetic Brake Auxiliary Bass Radiator (E.M.B.A.B.R.) that yields 4 different configurations.

Careful attention is paid when designing the exclusive non-resonant Crossover in air with progressive slope, which features optimised module and phase for better space/time behaviour.

OPENING THE PACKAGE

Ex3ma is packed in a manner that effectively preserves it and at the same time makes its removal simple. We suggest, however, following these recommendations:

• Keep all packaging for any future transport;
• Do not wear watches, bracelets, rings etc. in order to avoid scratching the speakers and their precious finishes when unpacking. The same care will be taken to protect the speakers from any metal finishes on the clothes you are wearing, such as zips, buttons, belt clasps, rivets, etc.
• Open the package following the instructions printed on it.

Specific indications:

• Place the package on the floor, respecting the UP and DOWN indications on the cardboard and remove the flight case from the package by breaking or cutting the cardboard;
• The flight case is equipped with different accessories, as shown in fig.1A, B and C;
• Open the flight case using the opening keys (fig.1A), being careful with the top and bottom of the speaker (fig.2);
• Close the flight case again and lock the 4 wheels (fig.3A);
• With the help of no less than two persons, lift the flight case from the uppermost side, using the handle as shown in fig.3B;
• Rotate the flight case 90° (fig.4). To prevent damaging the flight case, we recommend placing it on a protective cloth, on a rug or on the packing cardboard;
• Pull the speaker out of the flight case as shown in fig.5, gripping the bottom by the handle on the protective Stratocell (fig.5A);
• Be very careful not to grip the top of the speaker in the window area, as shown in fig.5B;
• Remove the protective Stratocell (fig.6A, 6B and 6C);
• The protective grille and the front mask of the tweeter are applied with magnets (fig.7).

IMPORTANT:

At least two persons are required to remove the speaker from its package.

To prevent injuring people and/or damaging the speaker, we recommend taking the positions shown in fig.3, 5 and 6.

Content of the package:

In addition to the speaker, the package contains a box with the following accessories:

• Ex3ma Book;
• Mask;
• Microfibre cloth;
• Bottle of detergent;
• Fabric anti-dust cover.

CONNECTION INSTRUCTIONS

This operation must be carried out with all equipment switched off!

The connecting clamps that accept connection with spade connectors, bananas and with the bare cable are on the rear panel of Ex3ma.

Ex3ma has 4 terminals, therefore it can be connected in three ways:

MONO-WIRING

The terminals (high and low frequencies) remain connected to each other through jumpers (fig. 8A); connect one speaker to the output terminals of the right channel of the amplifier, and the other speaker to the output terminals of the left channel of the amplifier, respecting the correct polarity as shown in fig.8B.

BI-WIRING

This type of connection improves the general reproduction quality, and in particular the detail resolution in the low frequencies. It requires two pairs of power cables used in the following manner: remove the connections between the terminals (jumpers), as shown in fig.9A, connect each pair of terminals (high and low frequencies) independently to the amplifier as shown in fig.9B.

BI-AMPLIFICATION

Bi-amplification improves the reproduced sound in a general manner, and in particular gives greater dynamics and control of the low frequencies. When connecting two stereo amplifiers for bi-amplification, two pairs of power cables are required and the connections between the speaker terminals (jumpers) must be removed as shown in fig.9A. One amplifier is used to amplify the high frequencies (right and left channels), and is connected by a pair of power cables to the terminals dedicated to the high frequency drivers. The second amplifier is used to amplify the bass frequencies (right and left channels), and is connected by a pair of cables to the terminals dedicated to the low frequency drivers. See fig.10.

Finally, accurately tightening the contacts and checking them periodically contributes to improved performance.

INSTALLATION ADVICE: AMPLIFICATION AND POSITIONING OF EX3MA IN A ROOM

Many questions can be asked regarding the correct interfacing of Ex3ma. To dispel any doubts, we feel the need to specify the following. A reference project cannot be designed to operate optimally only with one single type of amplification.

The only thing we can confirm is that a state-of-the-art driver system requires an amplification system that is just as state-of-the-art, no matter what technology is used.

Ex3ma is a particularly demanding speaker; owners can choose how to position their speakers according to their individual listening requirements.

Regarding positioning in a room, some suggestions can be useful to obtain the maximum performance possible:

1. The choice of the listening room and the speaker position have an influence on the performance of the whole system. A room with an irregular shape is preferable, since this type of room limits the formation of standing waves, thus improving the acoustic response in the room;
2. Rugs and curtains (without exaggerating) positively influence the acoustic response, because they contribute to the absorption of reflections and standing waves that form in the listening room;
3. There are no hard and fast rules for every environment. A good approach to the problem, however, is to virtually divide the listening room into three equal parts, as shown by the broken lines in fig.11. At this point, position the speakers on the first of the broken lines and well away from the side walls. The listening position should be placed on the second broken line, as shown in fig.11 position A. In this manner a good amount of air is guaranteed all around the subjects involved in the stereo reproduction, because the drivers can work freely while the listener is not struck by the acoustic reflections that generate near the walls and the corners of the room. Fig.12 shows how the speakers should be angled to converge towards the listening point, so creating the classic 'isosceles triangle' configuration. This final adjustment, consisting of angling the speakers literally towards the ears of the listener, greatly improves the focus of the stereophonic image.

We are aware that many of our customers will not be able to create these quasi-ideal listening conditions because of objective problems connected with the organization of spaces and furniture in a house; therefore we advise positioning the speakers away from the room corners and keeping them at a distance of 70-80 cm min. from the side and back walls. We advise keeping a distance of 150 to 250 cm between the speakers.

OPTIMIZING THE ULTRA-LOW FREQUENCIES

Remember that the level of the extremely low section in the sound spectrum can be optimized using the electro magnetic brake at the back of the speaker. Thanks to the Electro Magnetic Brake Auxiliary Bass Radiator (E.M.B.A.B.R.), the passive radiator can be adjusted in 4 different manners depending on the listening room (fig.13).

This setting typically depends upon the peculiar characteristics of each environment, i.e. upon its absorption capacity and the evenness in the diffusion of the low sound components.

SAFETY INFORMATION ON BERYLLIUM

MAINTENANCE

The Ex3ma tweeter contains Beryllium, a potentially dangerous element: users are warmly invited to carefully read the following safety information to prevent any damage caused by the possible absorption of the material.

The risk, however, is extremely limited when the material is in solid form; greater danger and damage occur when the product is inhaled or absorbed by contact with micro-particle vapour.

1. SAFETY MEASURES

Beryllium must never come into contact with abrasive material.

Avoid any type of contact with the skin or the eyes, and do not inhale or swallow any part or all of the beryllium dome. The producer highlights that the absorption of beryllium by swallowing, inhalation or cutaneous absorption can cause serious physical problems because of its high level of toxicity for humans.

The tweeter has a protective grille that must be never removed.

Children must be generally kept away from the drivers, and from the beryllium dome in particular.

2. IN CASE OF DAMAGE

Should the beryllium dome be damaged, we recommend contacting Sonus faber immediately, so that the assigned department can arrange the removal and/or replacement of the dome.

Should the dome break, all the beryllium fragments – if any - must be carefully collected and placed in a plastic bag to be sealed hermetically. Immediately contact Sonus faber for more information regarding the sending and repair of the damaged part and of the speaker.

Should beryllium be absorbed through the skin or eyes, or if inhaled or swallowed, contact a doctor.

The speaker does not require any special maintenance other than regular general cleaning. Do not use products such as wax or detergents to clean the wooden part of the cabinet, which could stain or damage the wood or the drivers. We recommend using a clean soft cloth (microfiber for example), possibly slightly damp. Any dust on the unit, on the front panels and the drivers must be removed using a soft paintbrush, being very careful not to damage their delicate membranes. Wood is a natural living material that can be affected by environmental conditions. We advise keeping the speakers distant from heat sources or windows, in particular during the summer months. We advise keeping the speakers away from direct sunlight.

These simple guidelines will help keep your speaker perfect for many years. Over time, the sound will improve as a consequence of the running-in of the moving parts of the speaker (membranes and surrounds), while the acoustic enclosure will perform better the more it is used – much like what happens with acoustic string instruments!

GUARANTEE

The Ex3ma speakers by Sonus faber have been designed and built following the highest quality standards.

Should a fault or a malfunctioning occur, the speakers are covered by guarantee. In such cases, please contact Sonus faber directly; the company will intervene quickly to solve the problem.

In addition, please note that:

- speakers in need of repair should be returned in their original packaging in order to be shipped safely, together with a description of the malfunction or defect the customer has noticed;

- the guarantee covers the speakers for any construction faults as long as they have not been disassembled, modified, tampered with or used for purposes or in ways that are not outlined in this manual.

DAS PROJEKT

System	2 way, low spurious vibration optimized suspension, E.M.B.A.B.R. (Electro magnetic Brake Auxiliary Bass Radiator), monitor on a dedicated stand loudspeaker system.
Cabinet	The carbon fiber sandwich “monocoque”, inspired by the supercar cockpits, is the main chassis structure on which the cabinet is build up. Constrained-mode damped lateral “Val di Fiemme” harmonic fir (Violin wood) sides, hand selected, quality graded and oriented for carefully optimized resonances control. The innovative resonance control of the wood structure is obtained by a 3D thickness distribution in the shape.“New Era” avional (from “the Sonus faber” experience)exo-squeleton front and rear clamp structure.
Tweeter	A Sonus faber designed 30 mm moving coil driver, with Sonus faber’s vibration optimized mechanical interface. D.L.C. (Diamond Like Carbon) Beryllium dome diaphragm for maximum resolution.
Mid-Woofer	A Sonus faber designed 180 mm neodymium magnet system ultra dynamic linearity mid-woofer. 6N pure copper wire is used on a controlled “eddy current” former. The dynamically linear magnetic field motor has an optimized geometry and a mass damper heat sink.
Passive Radiator	A Sonus faber designed race track shape E.M.B.A.B.R. (Electro magnetic Brake Auxiliary Bass Radiator) “Cadawas” variably damped passive radiator.
Cross-Over	Non-resonant “progressive slope” design, optimized amplitude/ phase response for optimal space/time performance. “Paracross topology” topology. Cross-over: 2350Hz. Adjustable low frequency damping into 4 different level.
Requency Response	40 Hz – 40.000 Hz, E.M.B.A.B.R included.
Sensitivity	88 db SPL (2.83V/1 m)
Nominal Impedance	4 ohm
Suggested Amplifier Power Output	50W – 300W, without clipping
Long-Term Maximum Input Voltage (lec-268-5)	24V rms
Dimensions	434 x 282 x 560 mm (HxWxD)
Weight	20,9 Kg each – net weight.
Dedicated Stand	Dimensions: 661 x 360 x 460 mm (HxWxD)Weight: 30 Kg each – net weight.
Total Dimensions	1.095 x 360 x 560 mm
Total Weight	50,9 Kg each – net weight

SUPPORT DRAWINGS

Diagram showing three labeled views (A, B, C) of a mechanical device with lock symbols and internal components, likely illustrating safety or installation instructions.

Illustration of a closed metal toolbox with open lid and internal compartments (no text or symbols)

3 B Block A

4 90°

WARNING A B 5

6

Mechanical assembly diagram showing a clamping mechanism with no visible text or symbols

A

Diagram showing a mechanical assembly with a base and a clamped component, no text or symbols present.

←

Silhouette illustration of two human figures interacting with a table and a bucket, no text or symbols present

B

Illustration of a person crouching next to a mechanical device and block on a surface, with an arrow indicating motion direction (no text or symbols)

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Diagram illustrating a mechanical or optical setup with labeled components and directional arrows, including a U-shaped magnet icon.

A + to positive contact of AMPLIFIER TW E2 4Ω MW Sonus faber ex Bana 0 1 2 3 - - - MAKE to negative contact of AMPLIFIER

+ R = + L - + L -

9

A

to positive contact MID-HI AMPLIFIER 4Ω MW Sonus fiber 0 1 2 3 - - - - - BEADE to negative contact MID-HI AMPLIFIER to positive contact LOW AMPLIFIER to negative contact LOW AMPLIFIER

B

+ R - + L - + L -

10

+ R - + L - + L - + R - + L - + L -

B

A

A

B

110.00° 60.00° 110.00° monitor

TW + 4Ω - MW Sonus faber ex3gna -1905- 0 1 2 3 BRAKE

TW 4 Ω MW S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S BRAKE

Install the speakers in order to achieve the best possible stability. If it's the case, adjust points/feet supports. Avoid placing heavy objects on the speaker as they can compromise its stability.

In case the speaker is placed on a surface other than the suggested stands (ex. shelves, bookcases, TV supports, etc.) or directly the floor, firstly check that it can support the weight of the speaker(s). Also check that there is enough friction between the speaker and the surface in order to avoid any movement caused through vibrations whilst in use. Where needed rubber adhesive feet can be purchased from all good hardware stores. Do not put any objects containing water or other liquid/liquefiable substance on the speaker system.

Follow the connection diagram suggested in the instructions manual. Remember that the parallel connection of two or more speakers can damage your amplifier. If in doubt, contact your dealer.

Whilst the audio system is operative at high volumes avoid staying in close proximity to the speaker system. This can cause permanent damage to your hearing! Children should maintain a safe distance from the speaker system of at least 50cm.

The speakers produce an electromagnetic field which is harmless to humans and pets, but they can cause disturbances in the correct functioning of electronic equipment such as monitors or cathode tube TVs when placed in close proximity. If this occurs, simply and slowly distance one from the other. As a further precaution, it is not advisable to place credit cards or similar magnetically read objects on top of the speaker system.

The technology behind the functioning of the speakers is based on the principles of electromagnetism, and thus the user should avoid operating equipment that generates strong electromagnetic fields as these could affect the correct functioning of the speaker. Avoid placing transmitting devices such as mobile phones, cordless phones, intercom systems, etc. on top of the speaker systems.

Do not directly connect to a constant voltage (100V, 70.7V or similar) sound distribution system. This could have as a consequence a serious system's overload with probable damages to the loudspeaker system and/or the amplifier unit.

Keep amplifier-speaker connection and power (mains) cables separate. Mains cables carry an alternating voltage at a frequency of 50Hz (60Hz in Japan and the USA) and an intensity that can be high, and thus produce an electromagnetic field even at audio frequency around them. In the case of coupling of these two types of cables an annoying hum noise will be perceived through the speakers. If this should occur, do provide an adequate distance between the cables.

Be very careful during the assembly and disassembly of the rubber string grille, if present. Check that the first metal string holder is properly inserted before tightening the strings to secure the second one.

The speaker cable terminals accept banana plugs. Remove the red and black plastic caps only if you intend to implement this type of connection and ensure that the other end of the cable is connected to the power output terminals of your amplifier. This protection is aimed at avoiding accidental connection to unprotected electrical outlets.

SICHERHEITSHINWEISE

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Sonus Faber SpA with headquarter in Via Antonio Meucci, 10 - 36057 Arcugnano (VI) Italy, under its sole responsibility that the passive speaker system:

Sonus faber Ex3ma

you have purchased which this declaration relates is in conformity to:

European Directive: 2004/108/EC (EMC) Electromagnetic compatibility.

2011/65/EU (RoHS) Restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment.

2012/19/EU (WEEE) Waste electrical and electronic equipment.

Arcugnano, 3 April 2014

Mauro Grange

CEO

CE

DÉCLARATION DE CONFORMITÉ

Arcugnano, 3 April 2014

Mauro Grange

CEO

INFORMAZIONI PER LA TUTELA AMBIENTALE

Waste of electrical and electronic equipment

Directive WEEE 2002/96/EC - RoHS 2011/65/EU

(for residents in EU Countries only)

This logo set on the product means that the recycling of this apparatus comes within the framework of the directive 2002/96/EC concerning the Waste on electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE).

The presence of dangerous substances in the electrical and electronic equipments can have potential con sequences on the environment and human health in the cycle of reprocessing this product.

Therefore, at the end of its lifetime, this product shall not be disposed with other non non-recycled waste.

As the end user, your role is of prime importance in the cycles of re-using, recycling, and other forms of valorisation of this electrical and electronic equipment.

Local authorities and resellers have set special procedures for the purpose of collecting and recycling this product.

You have the obligation to use the selective waste collection systems put in place by your local authorities.

For residents in EXTRA EU Countries only

Please refer to your local waste disposal authority.

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