Revell Performa C50a Owner's manual
- Category
- Loudspeakers
- Type
- Owner's manual
Revel®Performa™C50a Loudspeaker
3 Oak Park, Bedford, MA, 01730-1413 USA | Telephone: 781-280-0300 | Fax: 781-280-0490 | www.revelspeakers.com
Customer Support: Telephone: 781-280-0300 | Sales Fax: 781-280-0495 | Service Fax: 781-280-0499
Please contact Customer Support for information about product shipments.
Part No. 352991-001 | Rev A | 2/04
Revel Performa C50a Loudspeaker
Owner’s Manual
®™
“Revel,” “Performa,” and the Revel logo are registered trademarks of Harman International Industries. U.S. patent numbers and other
worldwide patents issued and pending.
©2004 Harman Specialty Group. All rights reserved.
This document should not be construed as a commitment on the part of Harman Specialty Group.The information it contains is subject
to change without notice. Harman Specialty Group assumes no responsibility for errors that may appear within this document.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION...............................................3
ABOUT THE MANUAL AND WARRANTY.................................3
PRODUCT REGISTRATION ...................................................4
DESCRIPTION .................................................4
WOOFERS ........................................................................4
MIDRANGE .......................................................................5
TWEETER .........................................................................5
CROSSOVER NETWORK .....................................................5
CABINET...........................................................................6
UNPACKING....................................................7
ADJUSTABLE SPIKE FOOTING...........................9
PLACEMENT .................................................11
CONNECTIONS..............................................13
SYSTEM OPTIMIZATION ..................................14
LOUDSPEAKERS AND POWER........................16
SPECIFICATIONS............................................17
OBTAINING SERVICE......................................18
2REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
Figure 1. The Revel
Performa C50a
center-channel loudspeaker.
INTRODUCTION
The Revel Performa C50a center-channel loudspeaker draws upon
the same research, resources, and unique perspective made famous
by Revel’s Ultima™ Series, resulting in standard-setting low col-
oration and freedom from distortion over an extraordinarily wide
dynamic range.
The C50a loudspeaker provides this exceptional performance in a
wide range of applications (through the use of placement compen-
sation circuits) and uniformly throughout a wide listening area.
Individually hand-tuned crossovers assure that this loudspeaker will
produce the same extraordinary sound quality as the original refer-
ence standard, and an ideal timbre match to Revel left and right
front loudspeakers. Its superior performance, validated by objective
listening tests, will greatly enhance the enjoyment of music or film
sound in your home.
ABOUT THE MANUAL AND WARRANTY
To begin enjoying your new loudspeaker, first read and then perform
the instructions in this owner’s manual. Maximum performance
depends on following all instructions described here, as well as those
found in the owner’s manuals of associated components in your
audio system. Save these instructions for future reference.
The C50a center-channel loudspeaker is covered by a limited 5-
year warranty, so save the bill of sale to protect your purchase and
aid in any service-related questions.
3
REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
Figure 2. The Revel Performa
C50a transducer and connection
locations.
DESCRIPTION
The Revel Performa C50a loudspeaker uses two 6.5-inch (165mm)
ceramic-composite woofers, a 4-inch (102mm) ceramic-composite
midrange, and a 1-inch (25.4mm) aluminum-dome tweeter.
Combined with an individually-optimized crossover network, this
transducer arrangement provides a uniform “listening window” or
area in which the sound varies little. The dual high power-handling
woofers and high-order crossover networks assure an extraordinary
dynamic range capability with very low dynamic compression. Full
magnetic shielding allows use near a video monitor.
WOOFERS
The two 6.5-inch (165mm) woofers feature:
•1.2-inch (30.5mm) diameter voice coils wound on glass-rein-
forced Kapton®bobbins for outstanding dynamic capability and
freedom from compression.
•Ceramic-composite cones feature an optimum combination
of stiffness and low mass for low coloration and distortion, and
fully-pistonic operation throughout their entire operating range.
•Massive motor system and specially vented spiders for
high-power handling and low dynamic compression.
•Die-cast basket to eliminate coloration from resonances.
4REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
On Top of
Monitor
Flush
Mounted
Stand
Mounted
0+.5
-.5
+1
-1
Placement
Compensation
(See Owner's Manual)
High Frequency
Level (dB)
Revel
Northridge, California
Made in U.S.A.
Serial No.
REVEL PERFORMA
C50a Front (without grille)
REVEL PERFORMA
C50a Rear
Woofer
Tweeter
Woofer High-Frequency
Level Control
Placement
Compensation
Control
Midrange
Connector Connector
PRODUCT REGISTRATION
Please register the C50a within 15 days of purchase. To do so,
register online at www.revelspeakers.com or complete and return
the included product registration card. Retain the original, dated
sales receipt as proof of warranty coverage.
MIDRANGE
The 4-inch (102 mm) midrange features:
•1-inch (25.4mm) diameter voice coil on a glass-reinforced
Kapton®former for extraordinary power handling and freedom
from distortion.
•Ceramic-composite cones feature an optimum combination
of stiffness and low mass for low coloration and distortion, and
fully-pistonic operation throughout its entire operating range.
•Specially-shaped, synthetic and natural butyl-rubber composite
surround contributes to low coloration and distortion.
•Die-cast basket to eliminate coloration from resonances.
TWEETER
The 1-inch (25.4mm) tweeter features:
•A pure titanium dome for fully-pistonic operation.
•Integrated, cast heat sink for high-power handling and low
dynamic compression.
•Telar 57™, low-carbon high-saturation steel pole, backplate,
and top plate for low distortion.
CROSSOVER NETWORK
The Revel Performa C50a crossover network is designed to seam-
lessly integrate the transducers over a wide listening area, and to
compensate for a wide range of listening environments. The
crossover features:
•A 3-way, high-order crossover at 260Hz and 2.1kHz for high
power handling, optimized dispersion, and freedom from
distortion and dynamic compression.
•Individual calibration to match each Revel Performa C50a to
the original reference standard.
•3-position placement compensation switch for low coloration
under a wide range of conditions.
•Calibrated, five-position, high-frequency level control for
accurate, repeatable settings.
•Separate woofer, midrange, and tweeter crossover boards to
eliminate any distortion-causing interaction.
5
REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
CABINET
Minimizes cabinet-induced colorations with 0.75-inch (19mm)
thick walls and extensive internal bracing. For even greater sound
enhancement, rounded baffle edges minimize diffraction and
optimize treble response. Two threaded inserts on the bottom of
the cabinet accommodate spike footing, which provides adjustable
tilt when the C50a is placed on or above a video monitor.
The cabinet’s wood veneer finish does not require routine mainte-
nance. However, cabinet surfaces that have been marked with fin-
gerprints, dust, or other dirt can be cleaned using a soft cloth and a
high-quality furniture polish. If a higher-gloss finish is desired, a
high-quality wax can also be used.
To clean the cabinet:
1. Apply a high-quality furniture polish to a soft cloth.
2. Use the cloth to lightly wipe the cabinet surface.
To clean the grille:
Gently vacuum using a soft-bristled brush vacuum attachment.
CAUTION:To prevent cabinet damage, do not use a cloth made
with steel wool or metal polish to clean the cabinet. To prevent
possible transducer damage, do not apply furniture polish directly
to the cabinet.
6REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
WARNING
Figure 3. Unpacking the C50a
UNPACKING
The C50a requires special care and handling during unpacking.
Pay particular attention to the precautions that appear in this
section and to other precautions that appear throughout this
owner’s manual.
When unpacking, save all packing materials identified in Figure
2 at the bottom of the next page for possible future shipping
needs. Refer to the Obtaining Service section on page 20 for
additional information.
To unpack the C50a loudspeaker:
1. Place the packing carton upright on a soft towel or carpet-
ed floor and fully open the top flaps as shown in step 1 of
Figure 3 (below).
2. Without allowing the top flaps to close, stand the packing
carton in an inverted position as shown in step 2 of Figure
3 (below).
3. Lift the packing carton off of the loudspeaker as shown in
step 3 of Figure 3. Use caution to avoid damaging the
loudspeaker cabinet. At this point, the loudspeaker will be
upside-down.
7
REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
Bottom
Top
Bottom
Top
1
2
3
Figure 4. A Revel Performa
C50a loudspeaker with its
inner packing materials.
4. Remove the left and right pads, grille and protective bag
identified in Figure 4 (below).
5. Remove the spike footing attached to the left pad as shown
in Figure 4 (below).
NOTE: While the loudspeaker is upside-down, it is recommended to
position the spike footing as desired. Refer to the Adjustable Spike foot-
ing section that begins on the nest page for instructions.
8REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
Right Pad
Left Pad
Grille
Protective Bag
Spike Footing
Figure 5. Tilting the Revel
Performa C50a loudspeaker.
ADJUSTABLE SPIKE FOOTING
When the C50a is shipped, spike footing is attached to the left pad
identified in Figure 4 on the previous page. For optimal sound
quality, these spikes can be positioned in the threaded inserts on
the bottom of the cabinet.
Both 1.5-inch (38mm) and 2.25-inch (57mm) adjustable spikes
are included, allowing for achievement of the proper tilt angle
when the C50a is placed on top of a video monitor as shown in
Figure 9 on page 12 or a shelf. For best results, the C50a should be
tilted so the front of the speaker is facing directly toward the listen-
er’s head.
To position the spike footing:
1. Place the C50a upside-down on a soft towel or carpeted
floor.
2. Select the appropriate set of spikes to create a tilt angle that
aligns the tweeter with the listener’s head.
•Select the 1.5-inch spikes for a slight downward tilt as
shown on the top of Figure 5 (below).
•Select the 2.25-inch spikes for a greater tilt as shown on
the bottom of Figure 5 (below). These spikes are required
for a higher loudspeaker placement.
1.5-inch Spike
Rear of C50a
2.25-inch Spike
Rear of C50a
9
REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
10 REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
Figure 6. Location of the C50a’s
threaded inserts for spike footing.
3. Locate the two threaded inserts on the bottom of the cabinet.
These inserts are identified in Figure 6 (below).
4. Rotate the first spike clockwise, spike end first, to attach it to
the threaded insert.
5. Repeat step 4 using the other spike and threaded insert.
Make sure the two spikes are evenly threaded to achieve a
level balance.
6. Place the protective caps over the round end of the spikes as
shown in Figure 7 (below) to prevent the spikes from scratch-
ing the mounting surface.
7. When both spikes have been inserted, stand the C50a in the
upright position. If needed, adjust the spikes to achieve a
level balance.
CAUTION: Do not mount the C50a precariously on the edge of a
monitor. Be sure to properly mount as instructed.
Round End
(Protective Cap)
Spike End
C50a Cabinet
Mounting
Surface
Threaded
Insert
Figure 7. C50a spike footing
detail
11
REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
Figure 8. Revel Performa C50a
center-channel loudspeaker
mounted on its (optional)
pedestal below a front (or large
rear) projection video system. The
optional pedestal stand is avail-
able at authorized Revel dealers.
PLACEMENT
Sound quality is heavily dependent on the accuracy of all your
loudspeakers, their placement in the listening room, and the
acoustics of the room itself. Since the C50a center-channel loud-
speaker is extremely accurate, experiment with the following loud-
speaker systems and placements (Figures 8 through 10) to enhance
performance.
NOTE: The C50a center-channel loudspeaker includes a user adjustable
placement compensation circuit that tailors the response for a desired
application (e.g., stand mounting, flush mounting, or on top of moni-
tor). See “System Optimization” on page 14 for detailed use on the
PLACEMENT COMPENSATION control.
Front
Left Front
Right
Front or Large Rear
Projection Screen
C50a (Center)
Optional
Pedestal Stand
12 REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
Figure 9. Revel Performa C50a
center-channel loudspeaker
mounted on top of rear projection
or large direct-view monitor.
NOTE: If desired, spike footing
can be added to the bottom of
the cabinet to create the proper
tilt angle. Refer to the Adjustable
Spike Footing section that begins
on page 9 for additional
information.
Left
Front Right
Front
Rear Projection or
Large Direct-View
Monitor
Placement Compensation
set to ON TOP OF MONITOR
C50a
(Center)
Left Right
C50a
(Center)
Rear Projection or
Direct-View
Monitor
Figure 10. Revel Performa
C50a center-channel loudspeaker
flush-mounted in large wall unit.
13
REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
Figure 11. Wire gauge versus
maximum wire run (with a
maximum loop resistance of
0.07 ohms) for less than 0.2dB
response error.
NOTE: “Loop resistance” is the
DC resistance measured at one
end of a loudspeaker cable, with
the other ends shorted together.
CONNECTIONS
For best results, please read the following points before connecting
the C50a loudspeakers:
•Use high-quality speaker cable with a maximum total loop resis-
tance (for each wire run) of 0.07 ohms or less. Use the chart in
Figure 11 below to determine the maximum wire gauge.
A high loop resistance will result in mis-termination of the filter
networks, and serious degradation of sound quality. Use high-qual-
ity connectors on the loudspeaker cables. Consult an authorized
Revel dealer as to specific recommendations for your application.
•Turn off all audio system power before making any connections.
•Read the owner’s manuals that were included with your audio
components to confirm their connection procedures.
•Verify correct polarities (i.e., + to + and - to -) when making
connections, as shown in Figure 12 on the next page. Failure to
do so will cause poor imaging and diminished bass response.
Wire Gauge (AWG) Length (feet) Length (meters)
68727
76921
85818
94313
10 34 10
11 27 8
12 22 7
13 17 5
14 14 4
15 11 3
16 9 3
17 7 2
18 5 2
IMPORTANT
14 REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
Figure 12. How to connect the
Revel Performa C50a
center-channel loudspeaker.
Figure 13. The Revel
Performa C50a level and
placement control locations and
initial settings.
SYSTEM OPTIMIZATION
1. After connecting the C50a loudspeaker, initially set the HIGH
FREQUENCY LEVEL control on the rear panel to the “0”
position (below).
On Top of
Monitor
Flush
Mounted
Stand
Mounted
0+.5
-.5
+1
-1
Placement
Compensation
(See Owner's Manual)
High Frequency
Level (dB)
Revel
Northridge, California
Made in U.S.A.
Serial No.
On Top of
Monitor
Flush
Mounted
Stand
Mounted
0+.5
-.5
+1
-1
Placement
Compensation
(See Owner’s Manual)
High Frequency
Level (dB)
Revel
Northridge, California
Made in U.S.A.
Serial No.
redblk
REVEL
PERFORMA
C50a
Rear
Connector Panel
Amplifier
(rear)
REVEL
PERFORMA
C50a
Rear
On Top of
Monitor
Flush
Mounted
Stand
Mounted
0+.5
-.5
+1
-1
Placement
Compensation
(See Owner's Manual)
High Frequency
Level (dB)
Revel
Northridge, California
Made in U.S.A.
Serial No.
On Top of
Monitor
Flush
Mounted
Stand
Mounted
0+.5
-.5
+1
-1
Placement
Compensation
(See Owner’s Manual)
High Frequency
Level (dB)
Revel
Northridge, California
Made in U.S.A.
Serial No.
Connector Panel
Set High-Frequency
Level Control To “0”
Bass
Increases
Set Placement
Compensation
Control To Match
C50a Placement
15
REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
SYSTEM OPTIMIZATION
(Continued)
2. The C50a center-channel loudspeaker must be used with an
80Hz crossover as follows:
•Set the center channel cross-over of your multi-channel con-
troller or receiver to 80Hz . Some controllers or receivers
refer to this setting as a “small” center channel.
•Use an 80Hz crossover even if your system does not include a
subwoofer. In its absence, the multi-channel controller or
receiver will use “bass management” techniques to route the
frequencies below 80Hz to the front left and right channels.
As a result, no center-channel low-frequency information
will be lost.
•The use of an 80Hz crossover will result in dramatically
decreased distortion, accurate timbre, and greatly increased
dynamic capability.
•Please contact an authorized Revel dealer if you need assis-
tance in properly adjusting the crossover settings on your
multi-channel controller or receiver.
3. Initially set the PLACEMENT COMPENSATION control (see
Figure 13 on previous page) to match the application as follows:
•Use the Flush Mounted setting when the loudspeaker is
flush-mounted in a wall or custom-built “media wall,” or is
placed on a bookshelf.
•Use the On Top of Monitor setting when the loudspeaker is
placed on top of a rear projection or direct view monitor.
•Use the Stand Mounted setting when the loudspeaker is
placed on its (optional) pedestal.
4. Turn on the system power and play a variety of material. Slowly
increase the volume to a comfortable level and listen from the
main listening position. Be sure to set the multi-channel
controller or receiver to a mode that utilizes the center channel.
If the C50a loudspeaker is used in a home theater system, listen
to well-recorded dialog from more than one film, as the sound
quality can vary greatly.
5. Experiment with setting the PLACEMENT COMPENSATION
control. It provides a powerful means to correct for the place-
ment effect on the C50a’s “timbre,” or overall balance. Due to
the influence of room acoustics, you may achieve a better
16 REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
timbre match with the left and right (front) loudspeakers than
your original setting (as performed in step 2 on the previous
page). Experimentation is the best way to determine the opti-
mum setting.
NOTE: Rotating the PLACEMENT COMPENSATION control to
the right increases low-frequency output (see Figure 13 on page 14).
6. It may be desired to further adjust the tweeter’s HIGH
FREQUENCY LEVEL control (see Figure 13 on page 14) to
achieve the most natural sound in your room. Varying the
control will change the high frequency balance and timbre.
LOUDSPEAKERS AND POWER
A C50a loudspeaker uses high-order crossovers with steep roll-offs
to eliminate damage caused by “out of band” frequencies. Using
this approach, in combination with carefully selected components
and transducers, helps minimize the potential for loudspeaker fail-
ure, even under extreme conditions.
However, there is a limit to how loud any speaker can play contin-
uously. Avoid playing the system at volume levels beyond where
the sound is “clear.” If the sound becomes distorted or strained,
reduce the volume level immediately to avoid damage.
If unsure of the suitability of current or planned amplifier compo-
nents, please ask an authorized Revel dealer to review them before
connecting the C50a center-channel loudspeaker.
NOTE: Also refer to step 2 (on the previous page) for 80Hz
crossover requirements.
17
SPECIFICATIONS
DefinitionSpecification Value
Sensitivity
Impedance
90dB SPL with
2.83Vrms @ 1m
(4 pi anechoic)
5.7Ω(nominal)
3.2Ω(minimum @ 200Hz)
Indicates the amount of power the associated power amplifier
must deliver to drive the loudspeaker at reasonable volume
levels. Conservatively-rated specifications indicate moderate
sensitivity, meaning that a massive power amplifier is not
required to drive Revel loudspeakers to reasonable volume
levels in large listening spaces.
Indicates whether the loudspeaker presents a “difficult” or
“easy” load on the associated power amplifier. Combined
with moderate phase angles, a minimal impedance
specification of 3.2Ωallows a reasonably designed power
amplifier to drive Revel loudspeakers.
In-Room Response ±1.0dB
from 80Hz to 18kHz
Indicates sound quality in context with other specifications.
An advanced measurement, this specification closely correlates
to sound quality in a single curve – a long-standing goal of
loudspeaker engineers. Research and observation reveals
that “on-axis” response curves cannot distinguish between
two loudspeakers with radically different sound qualities.
Target Response ±0.75dB
from 90Hz to 16kHz
Indicates sound quality in context with the individual
loudspeaker’s application, considering the acoustical impact
of its placement. An ideal response goal, a target response
is not flat at either end of the audible spectrum and is used
when the ideal reference is not a flat line.
First Reflections
Response
±1.0dB
from 80Hz to 16kHz
Indicates the response listeners hear in relation to the first
reflections from walls, ceilings, and floors. This specification
indicates that Revel loudspeakers will remain accurate,
even in listening rooms that cast strong reflections.
Listening Window
Response
±1.0dB
from 70Hz to 18kHz
Indicates the on-axis response of the loudspeaker. An
improved “on-axis” measurement, this specification
reduces the visual confusion of inaudible interference. It
retains full accuracy without using “spectral smoothing,”
which results in significant data loss.
Low-Frequency
Extension
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
-10dB @ 38Hz
-6dB @ 50Hz
-3dB @ 62Hz
Indicates the low-frequency response of the loudspeaker.
Studies have shown that the –10dB specification best
correlates to controlled listening tests. At low frequencies,
most loudspeaker and listening room combinations
demonstrate significant “ room gain,” which produces an
increase in levels as frequencies decrease. Unlike the –3dB
specification, the –10dB specification reflects the steepness
of low-frequency roll-offs.
Filter Network Three-way, high-order
@ 260Hz and 2.1kHz
Indicates the acoustical characteristics of the filter network.
Steep filters indicate an optimized filter network that
produces minimal acoustical interference, low distortion,
and expansive dynamic range. Revel’s filter networks
feature carefully selected components. Woofer, midrange,
and tweeter filter boards are independent of one another.
Each includes provisions for single-wired, bi-wired, and
bi-amplified connections as well as flexible controls for
user adjustments.
REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
Dimensions:
Width: 23.875-inches (606mm)
Height: 9.125-inches (232mm)
21.125-inches (537mm) (with optional stand)
Depth: 9.75-inches (248 mm) (includes grille)
Weight: 36 pounds (16.3kg) net, without packing
40 pounds (18.1kg) net, shipping weight
18 REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
23.875"
(606mm)
9.125"
(232mm)
cabinet
8.5"
(216mm)
9.75"
(248mm)
Figure 14. Overall dimensions
for the C50a loudspeaker.
OBTAINING SERVICE
Before returning a product for warranty or non-warranty service,
contact Harman Specialty Group Customer Support to determine
the extent of the problem and to obtain a Return Material
Authorization (RMA) number. No products will be accepted with-
out an RMA number issued from Harman Specialty Group.
If a Revel product must be returned for repair, Harman Specialty
Group will assume no responsibility for the product during ship-
ment from the customer to Harman Specialty Group, whether the
product is or is not covered under warranty.
All returns must be:
•well-packaged using the original packing materials (if possi-
ble)
•properly insured and consigned
•pre-paid to a reliable shipping agent
Do not return accessories such as owner’s manuals unless
instructed to do so.
REVEL PERFORMA C50a
Owner’s Manual
19
The following information must be included when a product
is returned for service:
•name
•company name
•street address, city, state, and zip code
•telephone number, including area code and country code
(if applicable)
•product serial number
•a detailed description of the problem
•the preferred method of return shipment
•RMA number clearly marked on both the inside and
outside of the package
To contact Harman Specialty Group Customer Support:
Telephone: 781-280-0300
Service Fax: 781-280-0499
Sales Fax: 781-280-0495
www.revelspeakers.com
3 Oak Park, Bedford, MA, 01730-1413 USA | Telephone: 781-280-0300 | Fax: 781-280-0490 | www.revelspeakers.com
Customer Support: Telephone: 781-280-0300 | Sales Fax: 781-280-0495 | Service Fax: 781-280-0499
Please contact Customer Support for information about product shipments.
Part No. 352991-001 | Rev A | 2/04
-
1
-
2
-
3
-
4
-
5
-
6
-
7
-
8
-
9
-
10
-
11
-
12
-
13
-
14
-
15
-
16
-
17
-
18
-
19
-
20
Revell Performa C50a Owner's manual
- Category
- Loudspeakers
- Type
- Owner's manual
Ask a question and I''ll find the answer in the document
Finding information in a document is now easier with AI
Related papers
Other documents
-
Behringer Behritone C50A Product information
-
-
Revel F206 Owner's manual
-
-
V7 V7ET-PA5025U Datasheet
-
-
Desa Tech C50A Owner's manual
-
Toshiba PSCJEE-00600CGE Datasheet
-
-
Simaudio N HT's Xd User manual