NHT SA-3 User's Manual
Contents
1. SA 3 Subwoofer Amplifier OWNER S MANUAL Now Hear This 6400 Goodyear Road Benicia CA 94510 800 NHT 9993 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS AN Ti a OF ELECTRIC SHOCK Ti a NOT OPEN CAUTION TO REDUCE RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE COVER OR BACK NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE REFER TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL G The lightning flash with the arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the product s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance servicing instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance WARNING TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE READ INSTRUCTIONS All safety and operating instructions should be read before the appliance is operated RETAIN INSTRUCTIONS Safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference HEED WARNINGS All warnings on the appliance and in operating instructions should be adhered to FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS All operating and use instructions should be followed WATER AND MOISTURE The appliance should not be used near water near bathtub washbowl kitchen sink laundry tub in a wet base m2. 9 3 3 and VT 2 E Recommended biamplification settings 1 SUBWOOFER PHASE 0 If the main amplifier inverts phase use 180 If you are unsure about this select the setting that results in higher bass output with the volume control unchanged 2 SUBWOOFER VOLUME Adjust for accuracy listening for seamless blending between upper and lower frequency ranges When changing electronics it may become necessary to re adjust the SA 3 s volume level since the correct volume setting depends on the sensitivity of partnering electronics 3 HIGH PASS Fc 65Hz THIS SETTING ONLY APPLIES TO BIAMPLIFICATION CONNECTION METHOD 1 IF YOU ARE USING METHOD 2 IGNORE THIS SETTING Set the SA 3 s high pass filter to its lowest setting to ensure that the SA 3 s high pass filter does not interfere with the tower speaker s passive crossover In other words the SA 3 sends only information from 65Hz up to the main amplifier and consequently the speaker s upper range drivers The speaker itself then filters the signal further according to the high pass filter designed into its passive crossover 4 LOW PASS Fc 150Hz Set the SA 3 s low pass filter to its highest setting so that the SA 3 s low pass filter does not interfere with the tower speaker s passive crossover In other words the SA 3 sends only information below 150Hz to the speaker s subwoofer sec tion The speaker itself then filters the signal further according to the low pass filter
3. designed into its passive crossover E Biamplification Bass Tuning Methods Following are two bass tuning methods that can be employed to further dial in a tower speaker s bass response using the SA 3 s onboard low pass filter 1 If there is excessive mid bass lower the SA 3 s low pass setting LOW PASS Fc until the mid bass response is smoothed out Lowering the SA 3 s low pass setting allows gradually increased filtering of the bass information before the signal reaches the speak er s passive crossover network 2 If there is not enough low bass output lower the SA 3 s low pass setting and increase its volume This bass tuning method allows the listener to decrease the mid bass response but in conjunction with increased output from the subwoofer amplifier This effectively increases the audibility of low bass information 3 Experiment with phase Biamplification Method 1 Most recommended Line level connection in series utilizing the SA 3 s high pass filter Use if You have a receiver with Pre Out and Main In jacks You have a separate preamplifier and main amplifier This connection method routes the full range line level signal from the preamplifier through the SA 3 which passes on a high pass filtered signal to the main amplifier and powers the subwoofer sections of the speakers directly with a low pass filtered signal Do not use the receiver s Subwoofer Out jacks to connect the SA
4. left tower Low Frequency Input SA 3 Subwoofer Amplifier SPEAKER OUTPUT z 2 RISK OF HAZARDOUS ENERGY MAKE PROPER SPEAKER CONNECTIONS SEE OPERATING MANUAL BEFORE USING HIGH PASSFe LOW PASS Fe PHASE ume INPUT VOLTAGE se AUDIOEQUP i MODEL 2 ES J SERIAL No v Ri CAUTION DATE MADE A c FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST RISK OF FIRE REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE 4A 250V FUSE 10 Biamplification Method 2 Line level connection in parallel no high pass filtering with main amplifier and SA 3 connected from preamplifier Use if You have a receiver with Pre Out jacks but no Main In jacks You have a separate preamplifier and main amplifier This connection method results in sending a full range line level signal to both the main amplifier and the SA 3 If you have a separate preamplifier that features two sets of line outputs each set is connected to one amplifier If the preamplifier features only one set of line outputs use Y adaptors to split the signal If you have a receiver with Pre Out jacks but no Main In jacks you can use the Pre Out jacks to connect the SA 3 without having to route the signal back to the receiver Do not use the receiver s Subwoofer Out jacks to connect the SA 3 as this signal is likely to be different from the full range L amp R channel signal 1 Run a pair of RCA interconnect cables from preamplifier output 1 to the SA 3 s LINE IN jack
5. range than the speakers 1 If you have large full range L amp R speakers If your L amp R speakers have generous bass response and you are adding a subwoofer you have the option of sending the speakers a high pass filtered signal Method 2 With the low bass information removed from the signal before it reaches the speakers all low fre quencies are reproduced exclusively by the subwoofer Start with a 65Hz high pass setting If you want to run the L amp R speakers full range and use the subwoofer only to provide low bass reinforcement use Connection Method 1 Sending the speakers a full range signal can sometimes make it difficult to integrate them with the subwoofer as their combined low frequency output can cause irregularities peaks and dips in the room s low frequency response In this case the subwoofer s low pass setting should be quite low and used only to fill in the lowest octave 2 If you have small bookshelf L amp R speakers If your L amp R speakers are smaller bookshelf type models with limited bass response it is advisable to send them a high pass filtered signal Method 2 With all low frequencies reproduced exclusively by the subwoofer the L amp R speakers receive a signal containing only information that falls within their specified frequency response range Use the 65 80 or 100Hz high pass setting depending on the main speakers rated low frequency limit Alternately you can run the sp
6. speakers are reproducing only the frequency range selected by the SA 3 s High Pass Filter see following section As a starting point set the Low Pass Filter at about the same frequency you have set the High Pass Filter For example if the High Pass Filter sends only signals above 75Hz to your main speakers begin with the Low Pass Filter set at 75Hz See the Fine Tuning section for further adjustment guidelines E High Pass Filter High Pass Fc Connection Method 2 Only The SA 3 features a 5 position selectable HIGH PASS FILTER which is used to determine the range of frequencies that the L amp R speak ers satellites will reproduce For example a high pass setting of 80Hz means that the L amp R speakers receive a signal containing only frequencies above 80Hz The five available high pass settings are 65 80 100 125 and 150Hz The High Pass Filter should initially be set to a frequency above the rated low frequency limit of the L amp R speakers For example if your speakers have a rated low frequency response of 70Hz use the 80Hz high pass setting If your speakers have a rated low fre quency response of 90Hz use the 100Hz high pass setting To select the appropriate high pass setting for your L amp R speakers check the owner s manual for their rated low frequency response If you are unable to obtain this information here are some common high pass settings Small speaker Medium speaker Large speaker 100Hz to 1
7. 3 as this signal is likely to be different from the full range L amp R channel signal 1 Run a pair of RCA interconnect cables from the preamplifier output to the SA 3 s LINE IN jacks 2 Run a pair of RCA interconnect cables from the SA 3 s LINE OUT jacks to the main amplifier s line level inputs 3 Remove the binding post jumper straps from the tower speaker VERY IMPORTANT 4 Run speaker cables from the main amplifier s speaker output terminals to the tower speakers upper pairs of binding posts 5 Run a second pair of speaker cables from the SA 3 s SUBWOOFER OUTPUT terminal to the tower speakers lower pairs of binding posts both speakers Since there is only one SUBWOOFER OUTPUT terminal on the SA 3 connect both speaker cables to the sin gle terminal Note When biamplifying with two SA 3 s one for each tower speaker run the left channel RCA interconnect cable to the left channel SA 3 s LINE IN L jack then out from its LINE OUT L jacks Run the right channel RCA interconnect cable to the right channel SA 3 s LINE IN R jack then out from its LINE OUT R jack Biamplification Method 1 Right side shown only NHT Tower Binding Posts Right High Mid Frequency a Line Outputs Input 4 F L R Remove O Jumper Straps Receiver Preamplifier Low Main Amplifier Frequency Speaker Outputs Line Inputs Input Right ar LY aR Ca e P a lt 4 To
8. 50Hz 80Hz to 100Hz 65Hz to 80Hz E Subwoofer Phase The ability to adjust subwoofer phase is a great advantage for achieving smooth bass response in your system The propagation of low frequency sound waves from the subwoofer and the speakers combined can sometimes cause peaks and dips in the frequency response at the listening position In this case adjusting the subwoofer phase may improve the blending and overall performance of the system The SA 3 features a 4 position SUBWOOFER PHASE selector which changes the phase of the subwoofer between the 0 position nor mal phase 90 180 reverse phase and 270 position The optimal phase setting will differ according to room conditions and place ment and the main speakers used Experiment with phase settings by listening to a familiar CD from the listening seat alternating 4 phase settings on the same track Do not attempt to evaluate the best sound while standing above the subwoofer or amplifier as the sound at the listening position will be significantly different E Subwoofer Volume Control The SA 3 s front panel VOLUME CONTROL allows you to adjust the volume of the subwoofer relative to the rest of the system Many listeners make the mistake of setting subwoofers too loud which can cause excess bloat and loss of detail and musicality A properly cal ibrated subwoofer blends in with the speakers and does not call attention to itself Observe the following guidelines for volume sett
9. LED is red the unit is in protect mode This could be caused by incorrect wiring short circuits or excessive volume Turn off the Power Switch on the front panel for two or more seconds to reset Double check all speaker cables to be sure that no small strands are extruding If the front panel LED indicator fails to illuminate it is possible that mis wiring or an electrical power surge has caused the protection fuse to blow It must be replaced with one of correct type and value Contact your local Authorized NHT Dealer or NHT immediately for assistance 12 E Glossary of Terms Active Uses electrical power Amplifier An electronic device that increases the current of a signal providing power to the loudspeakers i e power amplifier integrated amplifier receiver Bass The range of audio frequencies below 160Hz characterized by low pitch Crossover An electronic circuit that divides an audio signal into different frequency ranges Distortion Any deviation from the original signal caused by any type of equipment Driver The moving part of a loudspeaker which radiates energy Dynamics Variations in loudness of sound Frequency A rate of vibration which corresponds to musical pitch in the audio band expressed in Hertz Hz Full Range A signal encompassing the entire frequency spectrum not filtered above or below a certain frequency Hertz Hz A unit of frequency equal to one cycle per second used to measure the frequenc
10. Main Speakers SW3S Subwoofer Main In Pre Out SA 3 Subwoofer Amplifier SPEAKER OUTPUT RISK OF HAZARDOUS ENERGY MAKE PROPER SPEAKER CONNECTIONS SEE OPERATING MANUAL BEFORE USING HIGH PASS Fc LOW PASS Fo PHASE 40012 90 180 LINE IN 8 ae 80HZ 125HZ 2 a 2 7a an ae ap ome l LAUR MADE IN TAIWAN G RI IC SHOCK Amio eaup 5 Ae DO NOT OPEN zf p DEI SERIAL NO CAUTION FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST PAS OI RISK OF FIRE REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE 4A 250V FUSE DATE MADE SW3P Connection Method 2 E Fine Tuning the Subwoofer The frequency chart below lists some terms commonly used to describe different bands of the frequency spectrum The key to good subwoofer speaker integration is repeated listening followed by small re adjustments of the subwoofer controls The most important bass tuning functions you will control are the LOW PASS FILTER followed by the VOLUME CONTROL settings and then PHASE SELECTOR L pper Bass Lower Mid Mid Upper Mid ow Bass Mid Bass U a i zy n Below 50Hz 50Hz 100Hz 100Hz 180Hz 180Hz 300Hz 300Hz 700Hz 700Hz 3K 3K and above Listen to your system and make adjustments to achieve a seamless blend between your main speakers and the SW3P Four common problems are outlined below Follow the flow chart to correct these See the glossary for any terms you are unfamiliar with Fine Tuning Flow Chart ai Problem Too much mid upper bass Boomy Lacks
11. T REMOVE THE SCREWS Rotate the cover plate 45 degrees to gain access to the switch Using a flat blade screwdriver slide the switch to the correct position Use the 115 VAC position for 110 to 120 VAC and the 230 VAC position for 220 to 240 VAC Slide the cover plate back into position Tighten both screws Next you will need to replace the fuse see Changing the Fuse E Changing the Fuse only 5 x 20 mm T4A 250 volt slow blow fuses For systems operating in the 230 volt setting use only 5 x 20 mm T2A 250 volt slow blow fuses The SA 3 subwoofer amplifier has a user serviceable fuse To replace or change the fuse begin by turning the power to the OFF position and removing the detachable power cord from the amplifier Next remove the fuse holder cover from the power cord socket with a flat blade screwdriver Remove the fuse from the holder and replace it with the appropriate type For 110 to 120 VAC use a 5mm x 20mm T4A 250V slow blow fuse For 220 to 240 VAC use a 5mm x 20mm T2A 250V slow blow fuse Reinstall the fuse holder Replace the power cord with the appropriate type designed for your wall outlet Reconnect the power cord Always replace the fuse with one of the exact same specifications For systems operating in the 115 volt setting use E Troubleshooting If the amplifier fails to operate when the Power Switch is turned on check the power cord and all the input and output connections thoroughly If the front panel status
12. Y WITH SAME TYPE 4A 250V FUSE 11 E Operation The SA 3 was designed to handle a wide range of listening levels but every component has limits It is important to use common sense and listen for signs of possible distress from the subwoofer Noticeable distortion or harsh breakup is an indication that either the SA 3 or the subwoofer is running beyond its capacity and the volume should be decreased If you feel heat emanating from the front of the woofer reduce the level immediately Speaker damage most often occurs from sustained high volume levels not from transient sounds or brief musical peaks Excessive boosting of bass treble or equalizer controls can worsen the problem and is not recommended E Maintenance Your SA 3 subwoofer amplifier has been designed for years of trouble free operation and required minimal maintenance under normal use The SA 3 may be cleaned by wiping with a lint free cloth Do not expose the SA 3 to direct sunlight high temperatures or moisture In the event that service is required do not open the SA 3 Refer the unit to a qualified service technician E Changing the Line Voltage Setting In the event that it is necessary to change the line voltage setting begin by turning the power switch to the OFF position Remove all connections from the subwoofer including the detachable power cord Locate the two screws holding the cover plate over the volt age selector switch and loosen both screws two turns DO NO
13. all AC power connections to associated components receivers amplifiers pre amplifiers processors etc are either unplugged or turned off Do not plug in or connect the SA 3 to AC power until all connections have been made The SA 3 subwoofer amplifier is designed for use with passive subwoofers only As it is not a full range amplifier it will not function satisfactorily if used to power full range loudspeakers Two different subwoofer connection methods are covered in this manual Proper wiring of the subwoofer is essential to good sound At a minimum 14 AWG cable is recommended for runs of 15 feet or less between the SA 3 and the subwoofer with heavier special purpose cable used for longer runs For specialty cable considerations consult your local authorized NHT retailer If you are using a single SA 3 to drive two SW3S subwoofers in parallel it is preferable to use similar lengths of speaker cable for connections to each subwoofer Prepare your speaker cable by removing 1 4 to 3 8 of insulation from the ends and twisting the exposed wire strands tightly The five way binding posts on the subwoofer and amplifier will accept raw wire banana plugs or spade plugs Tighten the binding posts by hand as pliers can strip or break them Be sure to wire the subwoofer in phase That is the positive red terminal on the amplifier output must be connected to the corresponding positive red terminal on the subwoofer Likewise with the n
14. eakers full range and use the subwoofer to reproduce all the low bass frequencies below their response capabilities Methods 1 While simple this configuration does not remove the burden of low frequencies from the L amp R speakers and may limit their output at higher volumes 3 What connection options are available a If you are using a separate preamplifier and main amplifier both of the connection methods are available to you b If you are using an integrated amplifier or receiver hereafter called receiver with Pre Out and Main In jacks both of the con nection methods are available to you c If you are using a receiver with Pre Out Line Out or Subwoofer Out jacks but no Main In jacks you may use Method 1 d If you are using a receiver with no Pre Out Line Out or Subwoofer Out jacks there is no way to connect the SA 3 to your sys tem SW3P Connection Method 1 Connect the SA 3 from a receiver preamplifier s Pre Out Line Out or Subwoofer Out with no high pass filtering Use if You wish to run your L amp R speakers full range You have a receiver with Pre Out jacks but no Main In jacks You have a receiver with Subwoofer Out jacks only You are using the subwoofer as the low frequency effects channel sub out This method of connection allows your main speakers to receive the full range audio signal no high pass f
15. egative black terminals All speaker cables have some sort of marking along one or both conductors to help you make the correct connections To minimize noise pickup segregate cables by function Do not run low level signal cables parallel to power cables speaker cables or digital cables Also do not run speaker cables or digital cables parallel to power cords or parallel to each other If different types of cables are placed near each other at some place in your system separate them by the maximum practical distance and cross them at right angles where they meet E Low Pass Filter Low Pass Fc The SA 3 features a continuously variable LOW PASS FILTER which is used to determine the range of frequencies that the subwoofer will reproduce For example a low pass setting of 100Hz means that the subwoofer reproduces only frequencies below 100Hz The Low Pass Filter is variable between 35Hz low bass to 150Hz upper bass to accommodate a variety of speaker configurations If you are using Connection Method 1 your main speakers are reproducing the entire frequency range including bass and it is advantageous for the subwoofer to reproduce only those frequencies below the rated response of the main speakers For example if your main speakers have a rated low frequency response of 60Hz begin with the Low Pass Filter set at 60Hz See the Fine Tuning section for further adjustment guidelines If you are using Connection Method 2 your main
16. ent near a swimming pool etc 6 CARTS AND STANDS Do not place this product on an unstable cart stand tripod bracket or table The appliance should be used only with a cart or stand that is recommended by the manufacturer 7 VENTILATION The appliance should be situated so that its location and position do not interfere with proper ventilation The appliance should not be situated on a bed sofa rug or any surface that may obstruct cabinet openings 8 HEAT The appliance should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators heat registers stoves or other devices including ampli fiers that produce heat 9 POWER SOURCES This product should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label If you are not sure of the type power supply in your home consult your product dealer or local power company For products intended to operate from battery power or other sources refer to the operating instructions 10 POWER CORD PROTECTION Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked upon or pinched by items placed upon or against them paying attention to cords and plugs convenience receptacles and the point where they exit from the appliance 11 POLARIZED PLUG This appliance is equipped with a polarized line plug a plug having one blade wider than the other This plug will fit into the power outlet only one way This is a safety feature If you are unable to insert the plug full
17. f the audio range 13 Warranty Valid Only in the U S A Warranty Period For the period of 5 years for parts and 5 years for labor for loudspeaker products and 1 year for parts and 1 year for labor for electronic components from date of original purchase the warranty period from an authorized NHT dealer NHT warrants that if our product fails to function prop erly under normal use due to a manufacturing defect when installed and operated according to the owner s manual instructions enclosed with the unit it will be repaired or replaced with a unit of com parable value at the option of NHT without charge to you for parts or actual repair work Parts sup plied under this warranty may be new or rebuilt at the option of NHT What s Not Covered This warranty does not cover any product which is used in any trade or business or in an industrial or commercial application This warranty does not cover the cabinet or any appearance item or any damage caused to the product resulting from alterations modifications not authorized in writing by NHT accident misuse or abuse damage due to lightning or power surges or beingsubjected to power in excess of the speaker s published power rating This warranty does not cover the cost of parts which would otherwise be provided without charge under this warranty obtained from any source other than an authorized NHT service location This warranty does not cover defects or damage caused by the
18. he signal coming out this jack has already passed through an internal crossover in the receiver This can be problematic because the signal will encounter further low pass filtering when passing through the SA 3 If possible bypass any low pass filtering contained in the Subwoofer Out signal as the SA 3 will provide greater flexibility of adjustment If the receiver s subwoofer out signal has a selectable low pass filter select the highest setting 4 When used as low frequency effects channel set low pass Fc to 150Hz Receiver Main Speakers SA 3 Subwoofer Amplifier SPEAKER OUTPUT RISK OF HAZARDOUS ENERGY MAKE PROPER SPEAKER CONNECTIONS SEE OPERATING MANUAL BEFORE USING HIGH PASS Fe LOW PASS Fc PHASE 90 180 LINE OUT 100HZ BOHZ 125HZ 270 HIGH PASS 65HZ 80 HZ 0 SI USTED INPUT VOLTAGE Em MODEL l e Hi Q D Q Rano T CAUTION 35 HZ 150 HZ of DATE MADE RIQUE NE FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST RISK OF FIRE REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE 4A 250V FUSE SW3P Connection Method 1 SW3P Connection Method 2 Connect the SA 3 between a receiver s Pre Out and Main In with high pass filter loop Use if You wish to send your L amp R speakers a high pass filtered signal You have a receiver with Pre Out and Main In jacks You have a separate preamplifier and main amplifier 4 Connect the SA 3 SUBWOOFER OUTPUT to the SW3S input terminals with s
19. iltering and the subwoofer to be utilized for low bass extension only 1 Your L amp R speakers are connected directly from your amplifier receiver 2 If you have a receiver with Pre Out or Line Out jacks but no Main In you may connect the SA 3 to the Pre Out without having to route the signal back into the receiver Using an RCA interconnect cable connect the Pre Out to the SA 3 s LINE IN 2a If you have a separate preamplifier and amplifier and the preamplifier has two pairs of Line Out jacks connect one pair directly to your main amplifier and the second pair to the SA 3 s LINE IN If your preamplifier has only one pair of Line Out jacks you may uti lize two Y splitters to send the line level signal into both the main amplifier and the SA 3 3 Many integrated amplifiers and receivers feature a Subwoofer Out jack If your receiver s Subwoofer Out consists of a single RCA jack you may plug it into either the left or right LINE IN jack on the SA 3 Alternately you may utilize a Y splitter to split the line level signal into both jacks 3a Check your receiver s owner s manual to see if the Subwoofer Out signal is full range or low pass filtered A full range subwoofer out signal is preferred however on many receivers the Subwoofer Out signal is low pass filtered to cut out frequencies above a certain point 80Hz for example which means t
20. ing Turn down the volume control of the SA 3 to its lowest position counter clockwise Turn on your system including the SA 3 Play some music you are familiar with and set your receiver preamplifier volume to a comfortable listening level Slowly increase the volume on the SA 3 listening for proper frequency balance When the subwoofer output is balanced with the rest of the system you will hear improved bass extension but you should be unaware that it is coming from the subwoofer From this point on the volume control on your receiver preamplifier will control the overall volume of your system including the subwoofer E The SA 3 and SW3S The SW3P Powered Subwoofer System A subwoofer s performance in the context of your audio video system is highly dependent upon its interaction with your front L amp R speakers Since a subwoofer is designed only to provide low frequency response it is important to connect it in a manner that ensures seamless integration with your speakers There are two possible connection methods outlined in this manual The best method for you depends on the connection options avail able on your receiver or preamplifier In general Connection Method 2 with high pass filter loop is always recommended as it results in increased dynamic range and reduced distortion Addtionally this configuration usually makes it easier to achieve smooth low fre quency response as the subwoofer reproduces a different frequency
21. lectable at 0 90 180 and 270 degrees Weight 24 lbs Dimensions 5 125 H x 17 W x 14 5 D Finish Black anodized front panel black painted chassis E Design NHT products are designed to deliver refined musical sound from attractive and affordable packages Our efforts are guided by the study of human hearing and are optimized for real world use Every NHT product undergoes rigorous testing and quality control at the factory to ensure you years of listening pleasure The NHT SA 3 Subwoofer Amplifier is a powerful and versatile monaural low frequency amplifier The SA 3 and SW3S passive subwoofer together comprise the SW3P Powered Subwoofer System Additionally the SA 3 is designed to power the subwoofer sections of NHT tower speakers when connected in biamplified configura tions The SA 3 is optimized for powerful low frequency reproduction with a host of convenience features and sufficient high output capability to drive up to two subwoofers Its discrete Class G design enables cooler operating temperatures employing a massive power transformer and dual rail power supplies for high output and low distortion Only high precision low noise componentry is used in the crossover circuits for seamless blending with any loudspeaker E Placement The SA 3 amplifier s stand alone design allows it to be placed either with other electronic components in the system or on top of the SW3S subwoofer enclosure Note To prevent the SA 3 a
22. mid i upper eke low Excessive bass low bass lean but with weight pase weight weight en Lower low Adjust sub Increase sub Decrease Solution pass crossover woofer phase woofer subwoofer frequency volume and volume and lower low raise low pass pass setting setting If this makes the Lower sub problem worse Raise low pass woofer volume try setting If the sound improves Move sub woofer Adjust sub y Adjust sub closer to wall farther from woofer phase woofer volume wall Adjust sub f woofer volume Adjust sub Adjust sub Adjust sub f woofer phase woofer phase woofer phase f f _ Move sub woofer E The SA 3 and Biamplification All NHT tower loudspeakers are designed with dual sets of binding posts to allow for biamplification Biamplification is the use of two sep arate amplifiers one to power the low frequency subwoofer drivers and one to power the upper frequency midrange tweeter drivers The advantages of biamplification include reduced distortion increased dynamic range and power output Since both amplifiers are spared the task of reproducing the entire frequency range both are able to concentrate all their headroom toward a specific frequency range In the event that the speakers are driven to elevated listening levels the subwoofer amplifier may clip first but this distortion will be isolated from the upper frequency ranges because they are amplified separately Biamplifying
23. mplifier from overheating always be sure to provide adequate space for proper ventilation Front and Back Panel Diagrams NHT SA 2 AMPLIFIER VOLUME A SPEAKER OUTPUT d C RISK OF HAZARDOUS ENERGY MAKE PROPER SPEAKER CONNECTIONS SEE OPERATING MANUAL BEFORE USING HIGH PASS Fc LOW PASS Fc PHASE O noreo INPUT VOLTAGE 8888 AUDIO EQUIP all MODEL 3 J SERIAL No CAUTION DATE MADE FOR CONTINUED PROTEC N AGAINST PAS RISK OF FIRE REPLACE Of WITH SAME TYPE 4A 250V FUSE A Power Switch Turns the unit on and off B Power Status Light Tri color LED Green On Orange Standby Red Protect C Volume Control Adjusts the loudness of the subwoofer independently of the main speakers D Subwoofer Output Terminal 5 way binding posts for connection to the subwoofer E High Pass Filter High Pass Fc 5 way selectable high pass crossover for line out F Low Pass Filter Low Pass Fc Continuously variable low pass crossover control G Subwoofer Phase Selector 4 position selectable phase control H Line In Low level RCA input jacks I Line Out Low level RCA output jacks to receiver main amplifier J Input Voltage Selector 115VAC or 230VAC line voltage selector switch note under a removable cover K AC Power Connection and Fuse Holder For universal line input connection E General Connections Caution Prior to connecting the SA 3 to your system it is important that
24. peaker cable This method allows your main speakers to receive a high pass filtered signal not full range and the subwoofer to be utilized for low to mid bass reproduction The full range line level signal coming from the receiver s Pre Out passes through the SA 3 s selectable high pass filter which removes the low frequencies from the signal before sending it back to the receiver s Main In This configuration effectively increases the receiver and speakers dynamic range and power output by sparing them the difficult task of reproducing low frequency information 1 Your L amp R speakers are connected directly from your amplifier receiver 2a If you have a receiver with Pre Out and Main In jacks patch in the SA 3 between these With an RCA interconnect cable connect the receiver s Pre Out to the SA 3 s LINE IN Connect a second RCA interconnect cable from the SA 3 s LINE OUT back to the receiver s Main In 2b If you have a separate preamplifier and main amplifier connect the preamplifier output to the SA 3 s LINE IN Connect a second interconnect cable from the SA 3 s LINE OUT to the main amplifier s line level inputs With this configuration your preamplifier is not connected directly to your amplifier instead the signal passes through the SA 3 before it reaches the amplifier 3 Connect the SA 3 s SUBWOOFER OUTPUT to the SW3S input terminals with speaker cable Receiver
25. relative polarities of two identical signals Power Handling The ability of a loudspeaker to operate without distortion when given varying amounts of wattage Preamplifier An electronic device that selects sources and passes line level signal to amplifier Receiver Has preamplifier amplifier and tuner built into one chassis Satellite Front L amp R speakers when used with a subwoofer Referred to as main speakers Sensitivity same as efficiency A measure of how much of the input electrical energy is converted into sound ener gy measured in decibels Signal The series of continually changing electrical voltages that correspond to variations in the loudness of the origi nal sound Speaker Level Connection The connection between a loudspeaker and an amplifier Subwoofer A driver designed to operate over the low bass portion of the audio range Also refers to a system con sisting of a woofer and its enclosure which are physically separate from the upper range loudspeakers Surround Speakers Speakers located in the side or rear for surround channel effects Treble The upper part of the frequency spectrum consisting of frequencies above about 1300Hz Tweeter A small driver designed to reproduce high frequencies Watt A measure of electrical power combining the voltage with the electrical current required to drive the loudspeaker Weight Low frequencies below 50Hz Woofer A driver designed to operate over the bass portion o
26. s 2 Run a second pair of RCA interconnect cables from preamplifier output 2 to the main amplifier s line inputs 3 Remove the binding post jumper straps from the tower speaker VERY IMPORTANT 4 Run speaker cables from the main amplifier s speaker output terminals to the tower speakers upper pairs of binding posts 5 Run a second pair of speaker cables from the SA 3 s SUBWOOFER OUTPUT terminal to the tower speakers lower pairs of binding posts both speakers Since there is only one Subwoofer Output terminal on the SA 3 connect both speaker cables to the single ter minal Note When biamplifying with two SA 3 s run RCA interconnect cables to either the SA 3 s left or right LINE IN jacks Biamplification Method 2 Right side shown only NHT Tower Binding Posts Right Receiver Preamplifier Line Outputs 1 Line Outputs 2 C R R High Mid Frequency L yO Input Remove Jumper Straps Low Main Amplifier idee aa Speaker Outputs Line Inputs p L R e e a gt oc lt q To left tower Low Frequency Input SA 3 Subwoofer Amplifier SPEAKER OUTPUT RISK OF HAZARDOUS ENERGY MAKE PROPER SPEAKER CONNECTIONS SEE OPERATING MANUAL BEFORE USING HIGH PASS Feo LOWPASS Fe PHASE sonz OM sasuz z as 80 Hz o 270 o uso INPUT VOLTAGE Boae a li MODEL J SERIAL No RD CAUTION 35 HZ f re a DATE MADE FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST U RISK OF FIRE REPLACE ONL
27. s Tuning Methods IV Operation Maintenance Changing the Line Voltage Setting Changing the Fuse Troubleshooting Glossary of Terms V Warranty Information Thank you for your purchase of the NHT SA 3 monaural subwoofer amplifier Please take a few moments to read through this Owner s Manual prior to installing your new amplifier and or subwoofer system The information provided can help you to obtain maximum performance from your audio system For your convenience a glossary at the end of this manual explains some technical terms If you have questions or require assistance at any time during the installation or operation of your new amplifier powered subwoofer system please call your local NHT dealer or our Toll Free Customer Service Hotline at 1 800 NHT 9993 Please retain the SA 3 packaging to protect the amplifier in the event that you move or transport it SA 3 Amplifier Specifications System Type Monaural Class G subwoofer amplifier Power Output 250 watts RMS into 6 ohms Frequency Response 10Hz 150Hz 3dB Distortion Less than 0 03 at full power Crossover Low pass continuously variable between 35 150Hz 24dB octave Selectable high pass at 65 80 100 125 or 150Hz 12dB octave line level Input Connectors Gold plated RCA jacks for line level input Output Connectors Gold plated RCA jacks for line level output Gold plated 5 way binding posts for subwoofer output Phase Control 4 position se
28. to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance or e The appliance has been dropped or the enclosure is damaged 18 SERVICING Do not attempt to service this product yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel For service warranty information call the NHT Hotline number 1 800 NHT 9993 19 REPLACEMENT PARTS When replacement parts are required be sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by the manufacturer or that have the same characteristics as the original part Unauthorized substitution may result in fire electric shock or other hazards 20 SAFETY CHECK Upon completion of any service or repairs to this product ask the service technician to perform safety checks to deter mine that the product is in proper operating condition CAUTION TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT USE THIS POLARIZED PLUG WITH AN EXTENSION CORD RECEPTACLE OR OTHER OUTLET UNLESS THE BLADES CAN BE FULLY INSERTED TO PREVENT BLADE EXPOSURE aRWNM Table of Contents I Specifications Placement Front and Back Panel Diagrams General Connections Low Pass Filter High Pass Filter Subwoofer Phase Subwoofer Volume Control Il The SA 3 and SW3S The SW3P Powered Subwoofer System Connection Methods Fine Tuning the Subwoofer Ill The SA 3 and Biamplification Connection Methods Recommended Biamplification Settings Bas
29. tower speakers with the SA 3 results in added benefits as it transforms their built in subwoofer sections into fully adjustable powered subwoofers Using the SA 3 s onboard bass tuning functions the user can fine tune a tower loudspeaker s bass response in a specific listening environment For example if the speakers are used in a room that tends to under emphasize or over emphasize low frequencies it is possible to increase or decrease the volume level of the subwoofer sections independently of the upper driver sections Additionally the SA 3 s low pass crossover allows the user to adjust the rolloff of low frequencies to the subwoofer sections of the speak ers for further fine tuning of low to mid bass frequencies Towers may be biamplified monaurally using a single SA 3 and a full range main stereo amplifier or biamplified in stereo using two SA 3 s and a main amplifier Additionally the towers may be biamplified either in series or in parallel Wired in series Method 1 the main amplifier receives a filtered line level signal via the high pass output from the SA 3 Wired in parallel Method 2 both the main amplifier and the SA 3 receive full range signals directly from the preamplifier The main amplifier may be a stand alone stereo unit dual monoblocks or the amplifier section of an integrated amplifier or A V receiver that features Pre Out and Main In jacks The SA 3 may be used to successfully biamplify NHT Models 2
30. use of unauthorized parts or labor or from improper maintenance Altered defaced or removed serial numbers void this warranty Your Rights The liability of NHT will be limited to the purchase price of the product and NHT will not be liable for incidental or consequential damages NHT limits its obligations under any implied war ranties under state laws to a period not exceeding the warranty period Some states do not allow lim itations on how long an implied warranty lasts and some states do not allow the exclusion or lim itation of incidental or consequential damages The above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may have other rights which vary from state to state To Obtain Service NHT has appointed a number of authorized service companies throughout the USA should your product ever require service To receive warranty service you will need to present your sales receipt showing place and date or original owner s transaction To find the name and address of the nearest authorized NHT service location call or write Customer Service Department Now Hear This 6400 Goodyear Road Benicia CA 94510 1 800 NHT 9993 Please do not return product to this address It is not a service location Keep this warranty with your sales receipt Record date and place of purchase for future reference 14
31. y into the outlet try reversing the plug If the plug still fails to fit contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet Do not attempt to defeat this safety feature 12 LIGHTNING For added protection for this product during a lightning storm or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and power line surges 13 OVERLOADING Do not overload wall outlets extension cords or integral convenience receptacles as this can result in a risk of fire or electricshock 14 CLEANING Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners Use a damp cloth for cleaning 15 NON USE PERIODS This amplifier should be unplugged from the outlet when the appliance is left unused for a long period of time 16 OBJECT AND LIQUID ENTRY Never push objects of any kind into this product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock Never spill liquid of any kind on this product 17 DAMAGE REQUIRING SERVICE The appliance should be serviced by qualified personnel when a The power supply cord or plug has been damaged or b Objects have fallen on or liquid has been spilled into the appliance or c The appliance has been exposed to rain or d The appliance does not appear
32. y of a signal or sound High Pass Filter A filter that passes only frequencies above a certain lower limit electronically removes low frequen cies from a full range signal Impedance A measure of the total opposition to current flow in an alternating current circuit described in ohms In Phase The polarity of an audio signal when connected as follows to and to Integrated Amplifier Has preamplifier and amplifier built into one chassis Interconnect Cable A length of shielded wire with plugs at both ends for feeding signals from one electronic device to another Line Level Connection Low level RCA phono type connection Load A term used to describe the impedance which a speaker presents to an amplifier Low Pass Filter A filter that passes only frequencies below a certain upper limit electronically removes high frequen cies from a full range signal Main Speakers Front L amp R channel speakers sometimes referred to as satellites Midrange The frequency span of the middle of the audio range roughly 160Hz 3000Hz Also used to describe the driver which reproduces these frequencies Ohm A unit of electrical resistance that which opposes an electric current in a conductor In audio a measure of the load presented by a device to an electrical source Out of Phase The polarity of an audio signal when connected as follows to and to Passive Uses no electrical power Phase An expression of the
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