Universal 2-Way (400-1296A) Operation Faxback Doc. # 14334 Crossover Network CROSSOVER FREQUENCY The Crossover Frequency is the frequency point midway between two adjacent filter networks. At the crossover frequency, equal voltages should go to each speaker. For this unit, the stated crossover frequency is based on an 8 ohm load. (Actually, the crossover frequency may vary due to constantly changing speaker impedance -- an 8 ohm speaker may vary from 7 to 15 ohms or more at different frequencies.) Using L-pads and volume controls can cause changes in the crossover frequency, as can differences in speaker efficiency levels and the signal distribution of program material. Your Crossover Network has three selectable crossover frequencies: 2,000, 2,500, and 4,000 Hz (abbreviated 2K, 2.5K, and 4K). These are available for both woofer and tweeter: Ordinarily, you'll want the same crossover frequencies for woofer and tweeter. (That is, the tweeter's response should begin where the woofer's response ends.) Experiment a little to find the proper crossover frequency for your woofer and tweeter. SPEAKER SELECTION To assure proper crossover points, use only 8 ohm speakers. Use speakers with adequate frequency range -- otherwise, you may find large "holes" (frequencies at which the level of the audio output drops) in your speaker system's response. How about some ideas for speaker? Here are three for starters -- you take it from here: An 8 inch woofer (Radio Shack Cat. No. 40-1006) and a cone dynamic tweeter (Cat. No. 40-1270). A 10 inch woofer (Cat. No. 40-1331) and a midrange/tweeter (Cat. No. 40-1289) A 6 1/2" woofer (Cat. No. 40-1009) and a soft dome tweeter (Cat. No. 40-1374). Of course, there are many other combinations that might be very pleasing. Take the time to browse around your local Radio Shack and see the various combinations you might work up. SPEAKER POLARITY AND PHASING Speakers have two terminals with their "polarity" marked. One is the "hot" side (marked with a + or red dot). The other is the common side (marked with a - or a black dot). When you connect speakers to your crossover network, connect the common side of your speakers to the COM (common) terminals on the Crossover Network and the hot side of your speakers to the desired crossover frequency terminal. You might want to experiment with changing the polarity of any one of the speakers to see if this enhances the sound of your speaker system. The sound from the two speakers can add to or cancel each other -- this is known as phasing. Incorrect phasing causes a deterioration in sound quality or a "hole" (absence of sound) in the frequency response of your speaker system. CONNECTIONS Before making connections, mount the Crossover Network so you can determine correct lead length. Your Crossover Network can be mounted with sheet metal or wood screws to the inside of the speaker enclosure. (Take care to avoid crating air leaks in the enclosure when installing your Crossover Network.) Connect the + side of the tweeter terminals to either the 2K, 2.5K, or 4K terminal of the tweeter, depending on the crossover frequency desired. Connect the - side of the tweeter terminals to the COM terminal. Do the same for the woofer; connect the + side to the crossover frequency desired on the woofer side and connect the - side to the other COM terminal. When wiring the leads, cut and strip the wire to the desired length. Make secure connections (either solder or crimp terminals) at both ends. Make sure no stray wires short across to adjacent terminals. The input terminals of the Crossover Network should be connected to a binding post, terminal strip, jack or similar connector for easy connection of the speaker to your amplifier/receiver. (Be sure to match polarities at these output terminals.) NOTE: This Universal Crossover Network is designed to handle up to 100 watts of audio power (maximum music power). (ALL-03/23/95)