USER MANUAL Britannia Series B1 B2 B3
Contents
1. Not on B3 Mention of Power Switch and underslung LED power indicator needs mention here and potential additions to panel graphics on preceding pages REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual CONNECTING UP Always switch off your system before disconnecting any wires To increase the versatility of connecting up the Britannia range has various separate inputs depending on the model see pages 9 10 and 11 To connect to the power amplifier using the UNBALANCED Neutrik high level input To engage the Neutrik Speakon plug insert fully into socket and rotate clockwise until locked To remove the Neutrik Speakon plug grip body of plug place thumb on chrome lever move lever backwards rotate plug anti clockwise counter clockwise in the US quarter turn and withdraw The high level input is designed to accept the stereo two channel signals from the speaker terminals of your receiver integrated amplifier and basic amplifiers This has the advantage of ensuring that your subwoofer receives exactly the same signal as the main speakers which means that the character of the bass from the main system is carried forward into the sub bass This is a very important point and together with the REL s ABC circuitry ensures far superior system integration of the sub bass with the main system This input is labeled HIGH LEVEL UNBALANCED INPUT on B1 B2 and B3 This is the most common or standard recommended means of connecting the su2. man CAUTION TO AVOID RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE PANEL NO SER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE L LEVEL ie fe MODE SELECTOR ROLLOFF FREQUENCY HERTZ SOURCE PHASE 1 6 une o 22 30 LFE o 32 43 LINE 180 dog 46 54 LFE 180 deg 69 95 COARSE ROLLOF elle KJ HIGH LEVEL HIGH LEVEL BALANCED INPUT UNBALANCED INPUT CE 100 120 VAC 50 60 HZ FUSE 3 15A T Britannia B3 150 WATT MOSFET SUB BASS SPEAKER SYSTEM PROTECTED BY SET SAFE www rel net MADE IN GREAT BRITAIN 11 A EUER ELA REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual MODE SWITCH Used to set phase and to bypass crossover for Low Level input Position 1 Line 0 degrees phase crossover engaged low level input Position 2 LFE O degrees phase crossover bypassed for low level input Position 3 Line 180 degrees phase crossover engaged for low level input Position 4 LFE 180 degrees phase crossover bypassed for low level input Phase selection affects both Hi and Lo level inputs Crossover is always engaged for Hi level input regardless of mode switch position LO LEVEL input volume control Adjust for output level when using LO LEVEL phono input or balanced line level input XLR socket HI LEVEL input volume control Adjust for output level when using HIGH LEVEL UNBALANCED INPUT Neutrik socket or HIGH LEVEL BALANCED INPUT Neutrik socket
3. no bass bloat and a greater degree of space and timing from the Foley effects For an even greater sense of space and impact a second woofer connected in parallel to the centre channel will prove to be a dramatic improvement as well And if that is not enough fun a rear sub both to support the rear channel speakers as well as to evenly distribute LFE through the room truly completes the full range sonic picture for state of the art film reproduction A comprehensive set up paper for home theatre will be coming very soon Other Tips Generally speaking do not use the supplied spikes RELs work on the principle of the driver in a high pressure zone relative to the floor Spiking the REL will decouple the woofer from the floor which will lean out the bass response If the floor is an older very springy floor spikes can be useful in reducing the influence of the REL on the floor But better yet a heavy stone slab placed under the REL will work better Even if you intend to use the spikes do NOT insert them until completion of the set up process After which subtle adjustments to crossover and gain may be necessary W REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual REL Set Up Made Simpler Connecting High level connection using the enclosed cable is always the first choice The standard high level hook up procedure is attach the red wire to the amplifier s right positive speaker output terminal attach the yellow wire to the amplifier
4. further improvement of the sub bass system s integration with the main speakers Including Theatre Multi channel systems LFE output should be connected to the low level input and appropriate gain adjustments made at this point It may be necessary to take the crossover out of the low level input using the mode switch if extra upper bass output is called for Keep phase consistent with what was selected during high level set up by simply choosing the corresponding setting 1 2 3 4 When connecting to the low level inputs connect a single RCA cable to the 0dB RCA jack Should additional gain be required connect to the 12 dB input 22 REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual RUNNING IN Care taken over running in will be rewarded by many years of pleasurable use Both the electronics and the drive unit will benefit from an initial period of carefully controlled use Possible damage may be sustained by running in the unit at too high a volume setting over an extended period On the other hand by taking a little care over this initial period about 24 hours of actual use a longer life with a higher potential eventual performance is assured OVERLOAD PROTECTION REL Sub Bass Systems are designed as true sub bass speakers They are designed to reproduce those exceptionally deep notes that are felt rather than heard This they will attempt to do at whatever volume level you set If set too high no damage should result because the
5. secrets of REL s success By connecting to the high level input on the REL from the amplifier you build forward the sonic signature of your main system including the tonal balance and timing cues of the entire electronics chain In this way the REL is fed the exact signal that is fed to the main speakers B When possible the REL should be placed in one of the corners behind the speakers Remember we are dealing with true LOW bass pressurisation with RELs not the mid bass that most competitors settle for Low bass pressurisation below 40Hz is best derived from corner placement where the most linear and efficient low bass can be produced Basic set up should take no more than ten to fifteen minutes to accomplish once connected Connecting High level connection using the enclosed cable with the Neutrik Speakon connector is always the first choice By connecting to the amplifier s speaker outputs the sonic signature of the entire amplification chain is folded into the signal for the sub thereby keeping timing and timbre cues consistent In other words the signal sent to the REL is exactly the same signal sent to the speakers allowing for seamless integration This connection can be made without affecting the performance of the amplifier because the sub s amplifier input impedance is 100 000 ohms This scheme also avoids adding any detrimental effects by not interposing any additional electronics into the amplification chain e The
6. standard high level hook up procedure is attach the red wire to the amplifier s right positive speaker output terminal attach the yellow wire to the amplifier s left positive speaker output terminal attach the black wire to which ever of the amplifier s ground output terminals is convenient plug the Speakon connector into the sub s high level input e For differential amplifiers using one sub simply use the standard connecting scheme with the exception of connecting ground to chassis ground not to speaker output ground and then connecting into the HIGH LEVEL UNBALANCED INPUT For differential amplifiers using two subs one for each channel connect red to positive yellow to negative and black to chassis ground plug the Speakon into the HIGH LEVEL BALANCED INPUT Low level connection RCA inputs or XLR on some models is always an option should high level connection not be possible or in a theatre system where both high level and low level connection should be used When connecting to the low level inputs connect a single RCA cable to the 0dB RCA jack Additional gain can be achieved by connecting to the 12dB input 0 REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual Positioning The optimal position for a REL is in one of the corners behind the main speakers with the driver pointed directly out of the corner towards the centre of the room This position provides 9 dB of mechanical amplification and allows for the most linear tru
7. Amplifier Processor Sub Low Level Input Two low level inputs are provided OdB and 12dB Connect as shown above using a phono to phono interconnect not supplied Plug one end into the sub LFE output on the amplifier processor and the other end into the OdB input on the sub woofer If when using the OdB input the output of the sub woofer is too low then use the 12dB input The output level is adjusted using the control marked LO LEVEL LO LEVEL If the low level connection is to be made to left and right pre amp outputs then a 12dB attenuator is available to balance the OdB and 12dB phono inputs See below Sub Low Level 12dB Input Attenuator Phono to phono interconnect Not supplied REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual Alternative method for connecting at Low Level from pre amplifier In some circumstances it is not possible to use the high level method of connection for example when using active speakers Instead of using the attenuator as shown on page 16 connect as shown below using a Y adapter from the left and right pre amplifier outputs and a single phono to phono interconnect from the Y adapter to one of the low level inputs on the REL Only use this method if the pre amplifier has two separate outputs In the unlikely event that the second pre amplifier output is only a parallel connection to the other then this method will cause a mono signal to be sent to the main amplifier s or acti
8. CY HERTZ Sl 1 2 3 4 5 6 22 23 25 27 28 30 32 34 36 38 41 43 46 49 53 56 60 64 69 73 78 83 89 95 U N W gt These frequencies are within 1 tolerance and are repeatable between all Britannia range models REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual CONTROLS AND CONNECTIONS B1 See page 12 for explanation TAUT ON TO AVO D R SK OF ELECTR C SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE PANEL NO USER ERV CEABLE PARTS NS DE HIGH LEVEL UNBALANCED INPUT HIGH LEVEL BALANCED INPUT e e El LINE LEVEL BALANCED INPUT Britannia BI 300 WATT MOSFET SUB BASS SPEAKER SYSTEM PROTECTED BY SET SAFE 100 120 VAC 50 60 HZ FUSE 6 3A T www rel net MADE IN GREAT BRITAIN REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual CONTROLS AND CONNECTIONS B2 See page 12 for explanation CAUTION TO AVOID RISK OF ELECTR C SHOCK 20 NOT REMOVE PANEL NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS NSIDE COARSE EIER CIE o HIGH LEVEL HIGH LEVEL BALANCED INPUT UNBALANCED INPUT o 10 o LINE LEVEL BALANCED INPUT Britannia B2 200 WATT MOSFET SUB BASS SPEAKER SYSTEM PROTECTEDBY SET SAFE 100 120 VAC 50 60 HZ FUSE 6 3A T o www rel net MADE IN GREAT BRITAIN 10 REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual CONTROLS AND CONNECTIONS B3 See page 12 for explanation
9. FINE ROLL OFF control Fine adjustment of roll off point used in conjunction with Coarse Roll Off control below See chart on amplifier panel or in this manual page 8 for crossover frequencies determined by setting combinations of both controls COARSE ROLL OFF control Coarse adjustment of roll off point used in conjunction with Fine Roll Off control above See chart on amplifier or in this manual page 8 for crossover frequencies determined by setting combinations of both controls 0dB LO INPUT phono socket Used to connect the Sub Bass System at low level to the sub LFE output of the amplifier processor or left and right pre amp outputs If Lo Level inputs are used to connect pre amp right and left outputs then a 12dB attenuator is available from REL to balance the two inputs 12dB LO INPUT phono socket As 6 but a higher sensitivety If LO LEVEL inputs are used connected to pre amp right and left outputs then a 12 dB attenuator is available from REL to balance the two inputs HIGH LEVEL BALANCED INPUT Neutrik Speakon socket Used to connect the Sub Bass System at high level to the speaker output of one channel of a differential output or bridged to mono amplifier HIGH LEVEL UNBALANCED INPUT Neutrik Speakon socket Used to connect the Sub Bass System at high level to the main speaker output of amplifiers LOW LEVEL BALANCED INPUT XLR socket Used to connect the Sub Bass System at low level to pre amplifier balanced line outputs
10. PLIFIER PROCESSOR USING THE PHONO TO PHONO LOW LEVEL INTERCONNECT PENERE PEEK OP KE JE ENDE ni sten van ek Ne ETE 17 ALTERNATIVE METHOD FOR CONNECTING AT LOW LEVEL FROM PRE AMPLIFIER eere 18 TO CONNECT TO A PRE AMPLIFIER WITH LOW LEVEL DIFFERENTIAL BALANCED OUTPUTS 19 REL SET UP MADE SIM PE f o 20 REL SET UP MADE SRIPEER aie iiiobesisesesoktsssaoosoyosonvdeposososossssoesoyosososegososusssosapesogosososspovooososssasssoyos n 23 RUNNING IN oc E id ddd o ddd odd kowo DALO 24 OVERLOAD PROTEC TION PEPE ENEA 24 CARE AND POLISHING EEN 24 TECHNICA A EO O WRA 25 POWER SAVING EFFICIENCY swisi o kdo 26 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS BRITANNIA RANGE BI B2 AND B3 2211200221200022220002 27 REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS 10 11 papo Read all of these instructions Save these instructions for future use Unplug from the wall socket before cleaning Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners Use a damp cloth for cleaning Do not use near water Do not place on a stand or table it may fall causing injury to a child or adult and damage to the unit The unit should only be operated from the power source indicated on the panel of the amplifier Only use the power cord supplied Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord Position the power cord such that it cannot be walked on For added protection during a lightening storm or when not in use for lo
11. USER MANUAL Britannia Series B1 B2 B3 REL Acoustics Limited v North Road Bridgend Industrial Estate Bridgend CF31 3TP P d Great Britain O Telephone 44 0 1 656 768 777 i LA Fax 44 0 1 656 766 093 Web www rel net REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual Contents CONTENTS ETA 3 IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS LEE EET 4 A H 4 RR 5 WORLD AAA RR RE EE 5 SERVICE AFTER WARRANT Y ccccccccccrsccccsersoscosestorsstersenecsensencosertensoterseneosensencerenterseterseneeseneensonentert 5 DESIGN SAFETY 6 MAIN FEATURES OF THE REL BRITANNIA BI B2 AND B3 SUB BASS SYSTEMS 7 CONTROL PANEL P M ODW 8 CONTROLS AND CONNECTIONS BL saae 9 CONTROLS AND CONNECTIONS B2 RER nd 10 CONTROLS AND CONNECTIONS BI LENE w OG Gaw 11 CONNECTING UP PAP 13 TO CONNECT TO THE POWER AMPLIFIER USING THE UNBALANCED NEUTRIK HIGH LEVEL INPUT 13 TO CONNECT TO MONO BLOCK POWER AMPLIFIERS USING THE HIGH LEVEL NEUTRIK UNBA CGA NOED RET are 14 TO CONNECT TO DIFFERENTIAL BALANCED OUTPUT POWER AMPLIFIERS USING THE BALANCED A A REDERE deta ERE NOE ie etie OBW erit tete diete ters 16 TO CONNECT TO THE AM
12. b for two channel use Supplied Neutrik Speakon High level Interconnect HIGH LEVEL Release lever UNBALANCED INPUT Amplifier main speaker outputs High level connections should be made to the same binding posts as the main speakers Connect as shown above Red to amplifier main right speaker red terminal yellow to amplifier main left speaker red terminal and black to amplifier main speaker black terminal right or left but not both Plug the Neutrik Speakon plug into the HI LEVEL Neutrik socket The output level is adjusted using the control marked HI LEVEL HI LEVEL REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual To connect to MONO BLOCK power amplifiers using the high level Neutrik UNBALANCED input or for use with a single sub bass system and stereo or dual mono block differential output amplifiers Note A differential amplifier does not have to be a mono amplifier or one that has balanced inputs There are a number of stereo integrated and basic amplifiers that are differential The output topology of the amplifier should be checked before connection to the Sub Bass System is made if this is not clear from the amplifier user manual then consult the manufacturer To engage the Neutrik Speakon plug insert fully into socket and rotate clockwise until locked To remove the Neutrik Speakon plug grip body of plug place thumb on chrome lever move lever backwards rotate plug anti clockwise counter clockwis
13. built in electronics will limit the cone movement This electronic control is called Set Safe It constantly and instantaneously monitors the output from the power amplifier and is totally transparent in operation until required This means it has absolutely no effect on the sound quality of any REL Sub Bass System until an overload is detected Ordinarily an overload would cause the power amplifier to go into clipping with resultant loss of control over the drive unit Apart from being sonically offensive this can cause drive unit damage Set Safe detects the point of incipient clipping and reduces the signal level to ensure actual clipping does not occur Even without Set Safe overload would be a difficult thing to achieve because REL Sub bass Systems have particularly high current amplifiers and very powerful drive units specifically designed for high sound pressure levels From our tests we believe it would be very difficult to deliberately damage a REL Sub bass System Nevertheless anything can be damaged if sufficient effort is made Although everything possible has been done to minimise damage from moderate attempts at overloading there can be no defence against those individuals who deliberately and perversely abuse the device Such damage is NOT covered by Warranty Please remember a REL Sub Bass System is there to supplement your main system not to overwhelm it CARE AND POLISHING Brittex sprayed finishes These are best ma
14. connect not supplied The output level is adjusted using the control marked LO LEVEL LO LEVEL REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual REL Set Up Made Simple RELs are not traditional subwoofers but true sub bass systems A REL is designed to augment the performance of full range speaker systems to provide linear response down to below 12 Hz Therefore for the moment set aside everything you ve been taught about subwoofers and how they are integrated into a stereo or theatre system REL s set up and positioning differs from other subwoofers A REL will take advantage of physics and room acoustics to provide deep pressurisation as no other sub woofer can It s important that you bring to the set up process a willingness to do things a little differently in order to obtain these superior results The end result of your labours will be an utterly seamless integration of true deep bass to a sound system regardless of the main speaker s low bass capability Two Things Before You Begin A It is helpful to know that you will almost always connect the REL to the input on the rear panel labelled HIGH LEVEL This connection is made using the supplied 34 10 10 meters cable the bare leads of which connect to the speaker output terminals of the power amplifier The easy and foolproof connection at the REL is done with a Neutrik Speakon connector The purpose of connecting to the speaker output terminals is one of the unique
15. e in the US quarter turn and withdraw Supplied Neutrik Speakon High level Interconnect HIGH LEVEL Release lever UNBALANCED INPUT High Level connections should be made to the same binding posts as the main speakers Connect as shown above Connect RED to right monoblock speaker positive red terminal connect YELLOW to left monoblock speaker positive red terminal The BLACK should be connected to ground at the pre amplifier If the pre amplifier does not have a dedicated ground terminal then use one of the chassis screws at the rear of the pre amplifier or amplifier NOTE MAKE SURE THAT ANY CHASSIS SCREW WHICH IS USED IS NOT CAPTURED ON THE INSIDE WITH A NUT THE NUT COULD DROP INSIDE THE UNIT The output level is adjusted using the control marked HI LEVEL HI LEVEL 14 REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual To connect to differential balanced output power amplifiers using the BALANCED high level input To engage the Neutrik Speakon plug insert fully into socket and rotate clockwise until locked To remove the Neutrik Speakon plug grip body of plug place thumb on chrome lever move lever backwards rotate plug anti clockwise counter clockwise in the US quarter turn and withdraw The high level balanced input is also single channel and is designed to take the high level output from the speaker terminals of differential output bridged mode ampl
16. e low bass wave launch owing to the ability to tune the sub to the axial node of the room or longest throw distance The Process To begin the set up process choose a piece of music that has a repetitive bass line that is very low in frequency We recommend cut 4 from the soundtrack to Sneakers Columbia CK 53146 This has a repetitive bass drum throughout that gives you plenty of time to move the woofer around but more importantly the recording venue was quite large for this recording and therefore it has a very deep and large scale bass signature This type of cut is perfect for the set up process and should be played at the highest reasonable level expected for system play back Working with a partner one in the listening position and one at the woofer manipulating the controls is the most effective and efficient ways to set up the woofer If working alone the initial steps in the set up can very effectively be carried out from the location of the woofer Trying to ignore all other music in the cut listen for the bass drum and its effect on the listening room 1 Phase Orientation Once in the corner we need to adjust for phase This may be the single most critical step and because it really is quite simple it is often over thought especially by the most experienced audiophiles Keep in mind the right phase is whichever position is the loudest or fullest While playing music with true low bass adjust the crossover to a point where t
17. eavy Duty Cast Chassis 200RMS 300RM8 POWER OUTPUT WATTS 200 RMS 300 RMS PHASE 0 and 180 Degrees 0 and 180 Degrees DIMENSIONS MM WITHOUT SPIKES WXHXD GROSS WEIGHT PACKED KGS MAINS INPUT VOLTS 115 via fused I E C socket 115 via fused I E C socket Fuses with Set Safe with Set Safe Semi Delay 3 15A Semi Delay 3 15A SUPPLIED ACCSESSORIES NEUTRIK SPEAKON INTERCONNECT HIGH LEVEL 10m nominal B1 Balanced ARM loaded with port 120 2 Neutrik Speakon Twin Phonos and 1 XLR 80 DC Coupled Mosfet 100k Ohms 100k Ohms 10k Ohms 10k Ohms 300mm Long Throw Heavy Duty Cast Chassis 500 RMS 0 and 180 Degrees 115 via fused I E C socket Internal PCB Mounted Fuses with Set Safe Semi Delay 5A Yes Yes INTERCONNECT LOW LEVEL 5m 4X 8mm Yes In the interest of product development REL ACOUSTICS LTD reserves the right to vary this specification without notice 27 R REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual 20 REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual
18. g This is a refinement of the ARM loading that is used in the B3 it offers even greater bass depth and increased power handling without excessive port noise The B1 model represents state of the art design Because it has a 12 inch drive unit and an even more powerful amplifier together with Balanced ARM loading as in B2 it can approach sound pressure levels that can be too high for comfort The port noise of all models is very low and is totally innocuous in practice All REL amplifiers are fully DC coupled to avoid phase shifts and compromises in their low end performance The line level and filter stages are fully regulated to ensure total isolation from the power amp stages The filter stages are unique designs using the highest quality components The capacitors are high quality nitrogen filled polystyrene types of 1 very close tolerance and an indefinite life The use of very close tolerance components also ensures consistency of performance throughout the production life of each model The filter board is identical for all three models and is designed so that each fine adjustment equates to a semitone offering musically correct increments of the filter There is further filtering of the higher frequencies to ensure optimum performance at all settings of the ABC The built in power amplifier is built onto a separate circuit board and uses ultra rugged audio grade MOSFET output devices The power supply is the engine house of the amplifier
19. he sub and the speaker are sure to share frequencies B 3 for big speakers or C 4 for smaller speakers At this point turn the gain so that both sub and speaker are roughly equal and then switch using the mode selector switch from 0 position 1 to 180 position 3 phase positions Again whichever position is loudest or fullest is the correct position and as often as not may be 180 degree phase That is this position is working in harmony with your main speakers reinforcing bass and not cancelling it 2 Placement The next step is to determine precisely how far out from the corner the sub should be placed to achieve the most efficient output as well as the lowest frequency extension With the sub fully into the corner continuing to play the music slowly pull the sub from the corner on the diagonal equidistant from both side and rear wall At a certain point sometimes a matter of only a few inches in rare cases a foot or more the sub will audibly go lower play louder and if it truly locks on to the room and is fully pressurising it the air around the sub will seem to be energised stop right there This is the correct position for the sub 3 Orientation Once the position from the corner has been established the orientation of the woofer must be determined by rotating the REL from an imagined centre point at the rear of the sub As the sub is moved from one side to the other listen for the greatest level of outp
20. ifiers Because the intention of using separate bridged amplifiers is to ensure entirely separate signal paths for both channels two separate Sub Bass Systems are required for your system to reach its optimum potential one for each channel A differential amplifier does not have to be a mono amplifier or one that has balanced inputs There are a number of stereo integrated and basic amplifiers that are differential The output topology of the amplifier should be checked before connection to the Sub Bass System is made if this is not clear from the amplifier user manual then consult the manufacturer Supplied Neutrik Speakon High level Interconnect YELLOW HIGH LEVEL Release lever BALANCED INPUT BLACK Ground see below High Level connections should be made to the same binding posts as the main speakers Note Monoblock amplifiers may or may not be bridged output See the manufacturers documentation for your amplifier if you are uncertain The BLACK should be connected to ground at the pre amplifier If the pre amplifier does not have a ground terminal then use one of the chassis screws at the rear of the pre amplifier or amplifier The output level is adjusted using the control marked HI LEVEL HI LEVEL REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual To connect to the amplifier processor using the phono to phono low level interconnect en Phono Int rconnect ao Not supplied To sub LFE output of
21. intained by careful dusting with a lint free cloth Alternatively a soft bristled brush may be used to sweep off any dust failing on the surface If objects are to be placed upon the top it is advisable to use a small mat to protect the surface and to avoid the risk of rattles Wood veneer finishes Dusting as above plus the occasional polishing with a good quality furniture polish for the wood veneers Treat the finish as you would any other piece of quality furniture in your home 4 REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual TECHNICAL The Britannia range utilizes an unique Patent applied for loading system called Acoustic Resistive Matrix ARM loading This unique to REL system offers significant advantages over conventional reflex loading Firstly it significantly lowers the system resonant frequency this on its own is a very worthwhile advantage over simple reflex loading but it also offers the very important benefit of much reduced port noise chuffing Its action is a cross between ordinary reflex loading and a transmission line Because it has similarities to a transmission line it means it also has less stored energy compared to a reflex this translates into a faster sound Rhythmic timing is improved yet it also offers far higher output sound pressure levels for its driver size compared to a closed box By designing the port to fire down onto the floor it means the Britannia series have all the benefits of a downward firing
22. n doing so the resulting set up will be lacking in bass depth and dynamics The proper crossover point and gain setting will increase overall dynamics allow for extended bass frequencies and improve soundstage properties Note gain must be adjusted in conjunction with crossover changes In general when selecting a lower crossover point more gain may need to be applied Theatre and Film Applications For Dolby Digital AC 3 or other 5 1 theatre systems once the standard set up for two channel outlined above is complete the LFE output from the processor or receiver should be connected to the low level input and appropriate gain adjustments made It may be necessary to take the crossover out of the low level input using the mode switch if extra upper bass output is called for Keep phase consistent with what was selected during high level set up by simply choosing the corresponding setting 1 2 3 4 For this configuration you must set the processor to the large or full range setting for the left and right speakers in order for the REL to receive the bass signal via the high level cable In this configuration the REL provides support for both the left and right speakers for two channel listening and support for the LFE when movies are playing Most processors will allow you to defeat the subwoofer output when listening in the two channel mode The effect of this set up is one of greatly increased dynamics in the mid bass range
23. ng periods of time unplug it from the wall socket Never spill any kind of liquid on the unit Do not attempt to service the unit yourself as removing the amplifier may expose you to dangerous voltages Refer all servicing to your dealer Unplug the unit from the wall socket and refer servicing to your dealer under the following conditions When the power cord or plug is damaged If liquid has been spilled onto the unit If the unit does not operate properly by following the operating instructions If the unit has been dropped and damaged When the unit exhibits a drastic change in performance WARNING These items are extremely heavy To avoid risk of injury take care when handling REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual WELCOME Thank you for buying a REL Britannia range Sub Bass system Our Britannia range is carefully hand built using the finest materials available and is designed for maximum performance This manual contains important safety information as well as helpful advice and should be carefully studied before connecting up WARRANTY This product is warranted to be free of all defects in material and workmanship for three years from the date of original purchase by the original owner A purchase receipt or other proof of original purchase will be required before warranty service is rendered This warranty is not transferable and does not apply to any defects caused by negligence accidents misuse modifica
24. ng transit are the customer s risk REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual DESIGN SAFETY This apparatus is designed to Class II specification and is double insulated therefore it does not require to be grounded This product is CE marked and has been tested to ensure it satisfies all relevant standards It satisfies all relevant standards for Conducted Emissions Radiated Emissions Susceptibility and Immunity It also complies with the requirements relating to class II construction detailed in clauses 9 8 10 of BS EN 60065 1994 It also satisfies all relevant safety tests for consumer use provided it is used within the guidelines of this manual REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual Main Features of the Rel Britannia B1 B2 and B3 SUB BASS SYSTEMS e op M o Separate volume controls for both high and low level inputs Critically correct semitone resolution of the filter controls Balanced and unbalanced inputs via high quality sockets Mode switch to control phase and low level filter bypass All components of matching superior quality to achieve both long life and long term consistency of sound quality All cabinets made from 30 mm thick MDF Superior wood veneered finishes available for all models Set Safe circuitry ensuring ultimate protection if overloaded REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual Control Panel The layout of the panel is intended to ensure total ease of use Both low and high level inp
25. ot or more the sub will audibly go lower play louder and if it truly locks on to the room and is fully pressurising it the air around the sub will seem to be energised Stop right there This is the correct position for the sub Orientation Once the position from the corner has been established the orientation of the woofer must be determined by rotating the REL from an imagined centre point at the rear of the sub As the sub is moved from one side to the other listen for the greatest level of output and bass linearity In effect the sub should left in the position where it is playing the loudest and lowest Adjusting Crossover Selection To determine the crossover point bring the gain down put the crossover to A 1 or B 2 should output not be sufficient and then bring the gain back up to the point where you have achieved a subtle balance Working only with the coarse control A D bring the crossover point up until it is obviously too high at this point bring it down to the next lowest setting Now working with the fine control 1 6 bring up the crossover point until it sounds too high at which point bring it back down to the next lowest setting For all intents and purposes this is the correct crossover point Once this stage has been reached subtle changes to gain and crossover can be accomplished to provide the last bit of complete and seamless integration In addition subtle adjustments of the orientation of the sub may provide
26. period of no signal condition up to 10 15 minutes and which need to power up on receipt of a sudden transient thus failing to catch the start of that transient There is also the possibility of the sub remaining inoperative during listening sessions where the overall volume is low It is not necessary to switch off between listening sessions it will not significantly shorten its life by leaving it switched on On the other hand it will not harm sound quality if it is always switched off The power consumption in the quiescent no signal state is negligible REL s power starvation technology uses less than 4w when idle less than 1 25th the power of a standard light bulb It is perfectly safe under all normal domestic circumstances as it is fully protected by internal fuses and an external mains fuse in the sliding drawer of the mains input socket with a spare inside this drawer JA MODEL TYPE PORT DIAMETER mm INPUT CONNECTORS 2 Neutrik Speakon and Twin Phonos REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS BRITANNIA RANGE B71 B2 and B3 ARM loaded with port Balanced ARM loaded with port 2 Neutrik Speakon Twin Phonos and 1 XLR GAIN CONTROL RANGES dB AMPLIFIER TYPE DC Coupled Mosfet DC Coupled Mosfet INPUT IMPEDANCE CHANNEL UNBALANCED CHANNEL BALANCED BLACK Odb RED 12dB CHANNEL BALANCED DRIVE UNIT LOWER FREQUENCY RESPONSE IN ROOM AT 6dB 250mm Long Throw 250mm Long Throw H
27. s left positive speaker output terminal attach the black wire to which ever of the amplifier s ground output terminals is convenient plug the connector into the HIGH LEVEL UNBALANCED INPUT input For connection to a differential amplifier consult your dealer Positioning Primary Placement for a REL is in one of the corners behind the main speakers Phase Selection is the next step Keep in mind the correct phase is whichever position is the loudest or fullest While playing music with true low bass adjust the crossover to a point where the sub and the speaker are sure to share frequencies B 3 for big speakers C 4 for smaller speakers At this point adjust the gain so that both sub and speaker are roughly equal in output and then switch using the mode selector switch from 0 position 1 to 180 position 3 phase positions Again whichever position is loudest or fullest is the correct position and as often as not may be 180 degree phase see enclosed Control Panel section from the owner s manual Position The next step is to determine precisely how far out from the corner the sub should be to achieve the most efficient output as well as the lowest frequency extension With the sub fully into the corner continuing to play the music slowly pull the sub from the corner on the diagonal equidistant from both side and rear wall At a certain point sometimes a matter of only a few inches in rare cases a fo
28. sub but also all the benefits of forward firing for impact and excellent dynamics for home movies Remember the very lowest frequencies that are felt rather than heard emanate from the port it is somewhat similar to having two drive units each optimised for it s particular purpose The particular adaptation of ARM loading used in the new Britannia series is a third generation on from our previous methods A lot of thought and experimenting has gone into these models to ensure they represent the highest possible performance for their size Each cabinet is manufactured from 30 mm thick MDF Medium Density Fibreboard This is the material of choice where the very highest quality is demanded There can be no substitute for weight and density as far as low frequencies are concerned Each model in the Britannia range uses incrementally more powerful drive units amplifiers and larger cabinets compared to the base model The drive unit fitted to B3 is a bespoke driver with an exceptionally heavy and powerful motor assembly This is very important to maximise dynamics and control The driver fitted to the B2 mode is an upgraded B3 driver with a heavier cast chassis this driver handles greater power both through greater linear extension and the ability to dissipate more heat and this translates into greater bass depth and volume To help control this power and to further minimise port noise both the B2 and the B1 models incorporate Balanced ARM loadin
29. the smoothing capacitors are long life with very low equivalent series resistance ESR and the bridge rectifier is very conservatively rated at 35Amps Most of our competitors boast about using 6 Amp or perhaps 10 Amp rectifiers We feel this is short changing the customer It must mean a higher impedance path between the source of power the AC mains and the amplifier supply rails The transformers are ultra quiet audio quality toroid types with very low losses these are especially manufactured to our strict specifications Great care has been taken to deliberately over engineer all REL products to ensure ruggedness in service This ensures an exceptionally robust long lasting device For all practical purposes it will probably outlast its owner 75 REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual POWER SAVING EFFICIENCY All REL Sub Bass Systems are designed for maximum power efficiency both when passing a signal through to its resultant output sound into the room and also when silent REL circuitry is designed for power starvation operation under no signal conditions This means that immediately when there is a gap in the signal the sub is instantly at maximum power saving efficiency yet remains at maximum readiness to respond immediately to a sudden transient signal such as an explosion in a movie even after a long quiet period and at whatever level This compares to some auto power on off systems which remain powered up for a set
30. tion disassembly or repair by other than the manufacturer or by other than normal use for which this product was intended Within the period of this warranty Sumiko will repair or replace at our service center located at 2431 Fifth St Berkeley CA 94710 any part proving defective in material or workmanship All expenses except collateral expenses related to replacing or repairing a defective part under this warranty will be assumed by Sumiko except for the cost of transporting and insuring the product to our above named service center The buyer must notify Sumiko of any defect malfunction or nonconformity promptly upon discovery Within 30 business days after receiving the defective product from the buyer Sumiko will repair or replace the defective part We neither assume nor authorize any representative or other person to assume for us any other liability in connection with the sales or shipment of our products We reserve the right to make changes or improvements in our products without incurring any obligation to similarly alter products previously purchased The buyer has the right to bring any action at law or equity to resolve disputes concerning or to enforce the provision of this warranty SERVICE AFTER WARRANTY Please contact your dealer in the first instance before returning any product directly to us Should the unit need to be returned for any reason all shipping costs will be payable by the customer Losses or damage caused duri
31. ut and bass linearity In effect the sub should left in the position where it is playing the loudest and lowest Crossover and Gain Settings To determine the crossover point bring the gain down put the crossover to A 1 bring the gain back up to the point where you have achieved a subtle balance In some situations where there may not be sufficient output due to room and subwoofer interactions B 1 should be the position to use in setting initial gain Working only with the coarse control A D bring the crossover point up until it is obviously too high at this point bring it down to the next lowest setting Now working with the fine control 1 6 bring up the crossover point until it sounds too high at which point bring it back down to the next lowest setting For all intents and purposes this is the correct crossover point Once this stage has been reached subtle changes to gain and crossover can be accomplished to provide the last bit of complete and seamless integration In addition a repetition of step 3 above orientation may provide further albeit subtle improvement of the sub bass system s integration with the main speakers With that set up is complete 21 REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual Hint There is a tendency among audiophiles to set the crossover point too high and the gain too low when first learning how to integrate a REL with the system the fear being one of overwhelming the main speakers with bass But i
32. uts can be used concurrently Individual volume controls for the high and low level inputs ensure precise individual adjustment for both high level two channel stereo signals and multi channel LFE surround sound signals The mode switch allows both the phase and the filter bypass to be incorporated into one control The Line positions route the low level signals through the ABC filter circuits crossover controls In the LFE Low Frequency Effects positions the low level signals bypass this filter This is to ensure compatibility with multi channel home theatre surround sound systems where the bass frequency range is controlled within the software by the processor s decoder circuitry The high level inputs are always routed through the ABC The phase can be reversed by 180 degrees by means of this same switch to preserve the relative phase between your main system and the REL This acts at both high level and line level See table below MODE SELECTOR OURCE PHASE 1 LINE 0 2 LFE 0 3 LINE 180 DEG 4 LFE 180 DEG The two filter controls are to allow coarse and fine control of the filter settings The coarse control marked A through D changes the turnover frequency by approximately half an octave per division The fine control marked 1 through 6 offers a resolution of approximately one semitone per division The frequencies offered by these two controls are shown in the table below ROLLOFF FREQUEN
33. ve speakers If in doubt then contact your dealer distributor or the manufacturer of the pre amplifier for advice If the pre amplifier only has one set of left and right outputs then do not use a Y adapter from each channel to a single Y adapter to the REL this will have the effect of causing a mono signal to be sent to the main amplifier s or active speakers If the pre amplifier only has one set of left and right outputs then Y adapters can be used to create a second set of left and right outputs This extra set of left and right outputs should then be connected to the REL using the attenuator as shown on page 16 Phono to Phono Interconnect REL Lo Level Inputs Phono Y Adapter Pre Amplifier REL Acoustics Britannia Range User Manual To connect to a pre amplifier with low level differential balanced outputs To engage the XLR plug insert fully into XLR socket until a click is heard To Release the XLR plug push the lever on the XLR socket forward and pull the XLR plug out The XLR balanced input not fitted on B3 is a single channel input designed for professional use when connected to a mixing desk or a pre amp control unit with balanced line outputs Two sub bass systems are required one for each channel Connections for one channel shown below BAL LO INPUT XLR to XLR Interconnect Not Supplied To pre amplifier balanced Line output Connect as shown above using an XLR to XLR inter
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