This document provides comprehensive information about the Polk Audio Vanishing Series loudspeakers, including LS and RT models, designed for in-ceiling installation. The series is characterized by its "Sheer-Grille™" design, which allows for a near-invisible integration into the listening environment.
Function Description:
The Polk Audio Vanishing Series loudspeakers are high-performance in-ceiling speakers designed to deliver immersive audio while blending seamlessly into the room's aesthetics. They are intended for use in home audio systems, providing clear and dynamic sound reproduction. The speakers feature a "Sheer-Grille™" that can be painted to match the ceiling color, making them virtually disappear. The series includes both LS (Loudspeaker) and RT (Round Tweeter) models, each with specific dimensions and features to suit various installation requirements.
Important Technical Specifications:
The manual provides detailed dimensions for both LS and RT models, categorized by their size (900, 700, 500 for LS; 90, 70, 50 for RT).
LS Models:
- 900-LS:
- Overall Diameter: 9 5/8" (244.48mm)
- Cutout Diameter: 8 3/16" (207.95mm)
- Product Depth: 9 1/2" (241.3mm)
- Mounting Depth (using 1/2" drywall): 9" (228.6mm)
- 700-LS:
- Overall Diameter: 8 1/8" (206.38mm)
- Cutout Diameter: 6 1/2" (165.1mm)
- Product Depth: 8 1/2" (215.9mm)
- Mounting Depth (using 1/2" drywall): 8" (203.2mm)
- 500-LS:
- Overall Diameter: 7 3/4" (195.58mm)
- Cutout Diameter: 6" (152.4mm)
- Product Depth: 8 5/8" (219.08mm)
- Mounting Depth (using 1/2" drywall): 8 1/8" (206.38mm)
RT Models:
- 90-RT:
- Overall Diameter: 9 5/8" (244.48mm)
- Cutout Diameter: 8 3/16" (207.95mm)
- Product Depth: 9 1/2" (241.3mm)
- Mounting Depth (using 1/2" drywall): 9" (228.6mm)
- 70-RT:
- Overall Diameter: 8 1/8" (206.38mm)
- Cutout Diameter: 6 1/2" (165.1mm)
- Product Depth: 8 1/2" (215.9mm)
- Mounting Depth (using 1/2" drywall): 8" (203.2mm)
- 50-RT:
- Overall Diameter: 7 3/4" (195.58mm)
- Cutout Diameter: 6" (152.4mm)
- Product Depth: 8 5/8" (219.08mm)
- Mounting Depth (using 1/2" drywall): 8 1/8" (206.38mm)
The Vanishing Series Loudspeakers are not magnetically shielded, requiring them to be placed no closer than 1' (30cm) from CRT (tube) televisions or video monitors.
Usage Features:
- Installation: The speakers are designed for in-ceiling installation. The process involves tracing a template, cutting a hole with an appropriate tool (keyhole saw, utility knife, or material-appropriate tool), and securing the speaker. A power drill with a Phillips Head bit is recommended.
- Security Eyebolt: Each in-ceiling loudspeaker features an eyebolt on the back for an extra measure of installation security, adhering to standard building code installation procedures.
- Room Environment Controls:
- Room Switch (Reflective / Norm): This switch allows users to adjust the speaker's sound output based on the room's reflectivity. In highly reflective rooms (e.g., smooth sheetrock walls, hardwood floors, non-cushioned furniture), setting the switch to "Reflective" attenuates the tweeter response to prevent harshness and listener fatigue, resulting in a warmer, more realistic sound. For less reflective rooms (e.g., with curtains, carpeting, cushioned furniture), the "Norm" setting is recommended.
- Wall Distance Switch (LS models only): This switch addresses potential "boominess" that can occur when LS models are installed closer than 2' (60cm) from side walls. Proximity to surfaces can cause a response "bump" between 50Hz and 200Hz. Engaging the "Wall Distance" switch flattens this response, eliminating boominess without sacrificing bass.
- Wire Recommendations: The manual provides guidelines for speaker wire gauge based on run length for optimal performance:
- Lengths up to 25': 18 or 16 gauge
- Lengths greater than 25' but less than 50': 16 or 14 gauge
- Lengths greater than 50' but less than 75': 14 or 12 gauge
- Lengths greater than 75': 12 gauge
It is crucial to use wire that meets appropriate building and fire codes, and professional installation is recommended.
- Wall or Ceiling Surface Preparation: For heavily textured walls or ceilings (e.g., stucco or popcorn finish), the surface immediately around the speaker cutout must be sanded and smoothed. This ensures the speaker and grille sit properly and flat against the surface.
- Crossover Warning: Users are advised to exercise extreme caution during installation to avoid damaging the crossover.
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning: The apparatus should only be cleaned with a dry cloth.
- Grille Painting: The "Sheer-Grille™" can be painted to match the ceiling color for seamless integration. A specific procedure is outlined to ensure smooth, even coverage:
- Do not remove the grille scrim before painting.
- Use spray paint matched to the ceiling color; never use a brush or roller, as this can clog the perforated holes.
- Elevate the grille off a flat surface (e.g., using a spray can cap) to ensure even coverage and ease of handling.
- Hold the spray paint about 12" from the grille at a 45° angle.
- Apply a light, thin coat, moving evenly side to side, then around the perimeter.
- After each application, wait approximately 1 minute, rotate the grille 90°, and apply the next thin coat. Always rotate in the same direction.
- Three light, even applications should adequately cover the grille and frame.
- Product Disposal: Information regarding the disposal of the product according to international, national, and local laws and regulations is provided. Users should contact the retailer or Polk Audio Importer/Distributor for detailed information.
- Safety Instructions: The manual emphasizes reading all instructions, keeping them, heeding warnings, and following all instructions. It warns against using the apparatus near water, blocking ventilation openings, installing near heat sources, and exposing it to rain, moisture, or liquids. All servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.
- Hearing Safety: Polk Audio loudspeakers are capable of high volume levels that can cause serious or permanent hearing damage. Users are advised to limit prolonged exposure to volumes exceeding 85 decibels (dB) and to use good judgment when controlling volume. Information on safe volume levels is available from OSHA guidelines.
The manual also includes a list of items to inventory upon opening the speaker container: one in-ceiling loudspeaker, one Sheer-Grille™, one mounting template, one owner's manual, and one registration card. Users are instructed to contact Polk Audio Customer Support Services immediately if anything is missing, damaged, or if the speaker fails to operate.
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