Revel C208 - Manual (Page 2)

2 Revel Performa3 C208/C205 Center Channel Loudspeaker
Owner’s Manual
About Revel PeRfoRmA3
CenteR ChAnnel loudsPeAkeRs
Thank you for purchasing Revel Performa3 center channel loudspeakers.
These loudspeakers feature flexible placement options and sleek designs,
allowing them to blend-in easily with your existing décor. They deliver
an impressive combination of uncompressed dynamic range and low
distortion across the entire audible spectrum.
Revel C208 and C205 low-frequency transducers and the C208 midrange
transducer feature distortion reduction mechanisms that stabilize the
flux field during operation, assuring low distortion even at high listening
volumes. These precision transducers utilize ribbed aluminum cones for
ideal piston-like behavior that eliminates a major source of resonances
that are clearly audible in most other loudspeakers. Their cast aluminum
frames eliminate another source of resonances that is common in many
lesser-quality loudspeakers.
The C208 and C205 tweeter has been created around a newly-designed
motor and dome assembly that sets a new standard of transparency for
the Performa3 category. The tweeter’s integrated acoustic lens waveguide
is based on a breakthrough mathematical approach that accurately
matches the tweeter’s dispersion to that of the midrange transducer in
the crossover region. This gives the loudspeaker very smooth sound far
off-axis – an important contributor to overall sound quality, providing
consistent sound over an exceptionally wide listening area. In fact, this
new waveguide actually increases the tweeter’s dispersion at higher
frequencies.
The C208 and C205 are housed in enclosures that are similar to our
flagship Ultima2 Series. These fully-curved enclosures feature sleek
curved tops and bottoms, which are inherently stiffer than conventional
box shapes and are formed with contiguous wood layers that prevent
splitting. They feature strategically-oriented bracing that eliminates the
possibility of enclosure-induced coloration. These beautiful, modern
enclosures are finished in high-gloss piano black, high-gloss piano white
(C205 only) or genuine American walnut in a process (developed and
overseen by Italian luxury cabinet makers) that exceeds automotive
finish quality. The loudspeaker grilles are designed to minimize sonic
diffraction or veiling and provide a clean, subtle appearance. The magnetic
grille attachment method completely eliminates ugly hardware on the
loudspeaker baffle, so if you decide to use the loudspeakers without
grilles they will look like they were designed to be used without grilles.
Revel Performa3 crossover networks feature carefully-selected
components that contribute to great performance and benchmark-
setting value. These high-order crossover networks dramatically reduce
distortion and dynamic compression for clear sound that maintains the
same quality over a very wide dynamic range. These precision networks
optimize the speakers’ timbral accuracy, enhancing musical enjoyment for
listeners who are anywhere in the room, not only those seated on-axis
to the loudspeakers. The C208 network provides a calibrated high-
frequency level control that allows precise fine-tuning of the sound while
maintaining a very tight acoustic match between loudspeakers. Revel-
designed binding posts are heavily gold plated and include an articulated
section that allows for more secure connections when using spade lugs.
The C208 includes two sets of binding posts that enable the loudspeakers
to be bi-wired or bi-amped.
During development, every Revel loudspeaker model is compared to
competitive models in our unique position-independent double-blind
listening lab. This process utilizes the latest psychoacoustic research
to assure that these listening tests are valid, enabling us to verify that
all Revel loudspeakers are superior to their competitors before they are
allowed to go into production.
tAble of Contents
About Revel Performa3 Center Channel Loudspeakers ........................................................................................................... 2
C208/C205 Overview ............................................................................................................................................................... 3
Tweeter Level Switch, Low-Frequency Compensation Switch, Binding Posts, Shorting Straps
Installation Considerations ...................................................................................................................................................... 4
Listening Room Acoustics, Acoustic Treatment Materials, Adjustable Spikes
Making Connections ................................................................................................................................................................ 5
Observe Proper Polarity, Loudspeaker Cable, C205 Connections, C208 Connections
Optimizing Performance ........................................................................................................................................................... 8
Port Plugs, C208 Adjustments
Caring for Your Loudspeakers .................................................................................................................................................. 8
Specifications ........................................................................................................................................................................... 9
C208, C205