The Acoustic Energy 300 Series is a range of loudspeakers designed for high-performance audio reproduction in a home environment. The series includes the AE300, AE309, AE307, and AE308 models, each with specific characteristics to suit different listening setups and room requirements.
Function Description:
The 300 Series loudspeakers are engineered to deliver neutral balance, low-distortion, and high power handling. They are designed to minimize cabinet coloration, ensuring that the sound produced is as accurate to the source material as possible. The speakers feature wide output slot rear-porting, which contributes to their flexibility in placement within various rooms and positions in the home. The range caters to both stereo and home cinema applications, with specific models optimized for different roles.
Important Technical Specifications (across the series):
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Sensitivity:
- AE300: 86dB
- AE309: 89dB
- AE307: 89dB
0 AE308: NA (Not Applicable, as it's an active subwoofer)
- Measured at 1m using pink-weighted MLS noise, referenced to 2.83V.
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Bandwidth:
- AE300: 45Hz to 30kHz
- AE309: 38Hz to 30kHz
- AE307: 42Hz to 30kHz
- AE308: 26Hz to 120Hz
- Measured at 1m using pink-weighted MLS noise, +/-6dB limits.
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Horizontal Coverage:
- AE300: 120 degrees
- AE309: 120 degrees
- AE307: 90 degrees
- AE308: 360 degrees
- Measured at 1m using pink-weighted MLS noise, +/-6dB limits.
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Vertical Coverage:
- AE300: 120 degrees
- AE309: 90 degrees
- AE307: 120 degrees
- AE308: 360 degrees
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Peak SPL:
- AE300: 112dB
- AE309: 115dB
- AE307: 115dB
- AE308: 112dB
- Measured using a toneburst signal with a 200W amplifier.
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Maximum SPL:
- AE300: 102dB
- AE309: 108dB
- AE307: 108dB
- AE308: 102dB
- Measured using a band limited sine sweep using a 200W amplifier. Measured in Half Space at 1m.
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Impedance:
- AE300: 6 ohms
- AE309: 6 ohms
- AE307: 6 ohms
- AE308: NA
-
Power Handling:
- AE300: 100W
- AE309: 175W
- AE307: 175W
- AE308: 500W (Active)
- According to AES Standard ANSI S4.26-1984.
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Crossover Frequency:
- AE300: 2.8kHz
- AE309: 296Hz / 2.56kHz
- AE307: 296Hz / 2.56kHz
- AE308: 40-110Hz adjustable
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Dimensions (HWD):
- AE300: 300x175x260mm
- AE309: 900x175x280mm
- AE307: 175x460x260mm
- AE308: 360mm³
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Weight (Each):
- AE300: 6.5kg
- AE309: 22kg
- AE307: 9kg
- AE308: 20kg
Usage Features:
- Flexible Positioning: The 300 Series speakers are designed to be "room-friendly" and perform well in various locations within the listening environment. While flexible, some basic guidelines are provided for optimum performance.
- Tweeter Placement: For optimal listening, tweeters (high-frequency drivers, not applicable to the subwoofer) should ideally be at ear level when the listener is seated. For serious listening, removing the grilles is recommended where practical. The AE307, if used with a screen in a typical A/V layout, may require lower placement.
- Rigid Support: To achieve optimum dynamic response and detail, the AE300 and AE307 benefit from good stands or a solid surface. The AE309 and AE308 (floorstanding and subwoofer) should ideally be used with their own floor spikes. Standard mounting tack can be used for extra coupling and secure placement.
- Room Positioning Guidelines: A minimum of 6 inches (15cm) of space should be allowed between the speakers and boundary walls. For stereo setups, the speakers should be equidistant from each other and the listening position. Users are encouraged to experiment and trust their own judgment for the best sound.
- Connections:
- Amplifier Connection: Before connecting, ensure the amplifier is switched off to prevent damage.
- Polarity: The positive cable from the amplifier's positive (red) terminal connects to the loudspeaker's positive (red) terminal. Similarly, the negative cable connects to the negative (black) terminals on both the amplifier and loudspeaker.
- Power-Up Procedure: After wiring, lower the volume to minimum, switch on the amplifier, select the signal source, and then gradually raise the volume to the desired listening level.
- Specific Models (AE307 and AE308): For the AE307 and AE308, users should refer to their amplifier's instruction manual as multiple configurations are possible and will vary depending on the setup (e.g., home cinema receiver for the AE307 center channel, or LFE/stereo connections for the AE308 subwoofer).
Maintenance Features:
- Warranty: Acoustic Energy 300 Series loudspeakers are guaranteed against original defects in materials, manufacture, and workmanship for 3 years (2 years for the AE308 Subwoofer) from the date of purchase.
- Extended Warranty: Registering the loudspeakers online via acoustic-energy.co.uk extends the guarantee to five years (three years for the AE308 Subwoofer) free of charge.
- Packaging Retention: Users are advised to retain all original packaging materials for possible future use, which is important for warranty claims or transportation.
- Warranty Service: In the event of a defect, Acoustic Energy agrees to repair or replace faulty components without charge for parts or labor. The warranty excludes fair wear and tear, accident, misuse, or unauthorized modification.
- Claim Procedure: For warranty claims, customers should contact their dealer in the first instance. For purchases outside the UK, claims and inquiries should be directed to local importers or distributors.
- Record Keeping: It is recommended to complete the purchase details (Dealer's name, Date of purchase, Serial numbers) in the manual and keep this information in a safe place for future reference.
The Acoustic Energy 300 Series aims to provide a versatile and high-quality listening experience, backed by robust design and comprehensive support.