Acoustic Energy Loudspeaker Aelite 160Ci User Manual

							
INSTALLATION and OWNERS MANUAL
CUSTOM INSTALL SERIES  
						

							
Page 
Thank you for purchasing this Acoustic Energy product. As a valued customer we 
would like to keep you up to date with all news and events including new products, 
exhibitions and exclusive promotions. To enable us to communicate these exciting 
developments please go to our web site - www.acoustic-energy.co.uk - and 
complete the ownership registration form.
Perhaps more than any other audio product, speakers are sensitive to installation 
so please take a little time to read this manual and to follow, as far as practical, the 
installation guidelines it contains. Careful installation will help ensure that your 
speakers perform optimally.
This manual covers the Aelite Custom Install Series In-wall and In-ceiling speakers. 
Following this introduction, the Manual is divided into sections covering, 
positioning, connection, installation and listening, We recommend that you read 
at least the first three sections carefully before installing and using your speakers. 
Warranty and contact information is provided on the last page.
Speakers are relatively delicate precision engineered products that can be 
damaged by inappropriate handling. Please take care when unpacking or handling 
the speakers not to touch the drivers. Damage to a driver will at best degrade 
performance and at worst result in complete failure.
I n t r o d u c t i o n1 .   I n - w a l l   S p e a k e r   P o s i t i o n i n g
Aelite Custom Install In-wall speakers are intended to be used in either stereo hi-fi, 
multi-channel home theatre or high quality distributed audio systems.
The location of speakers within a listening environment is likely to have more 
influence over their subjective performance than any other aspect of installation. It 
is worth spending some time considering both the finer points of speaker location, 
as well as the larger scale issues of room and speaker layout. Almost certainly your 
speakers will be used in one of two applications: 
•      Stereo or home theatre system where the location of speakers relative to 
each other is important.
•    Utility “background sound” applications where single speakers are used in 
isolation to “cover” a specific area or areas.
These two types of application are covered in the paragraphs below.
Aelite Custom Install speakers are magnetically shielded so may be positioned in 
relatively close proximity to magnetically sensitive equipment and media.
Stereo and Home Theatre Speaker Positioning
If a pair of speakers is to be used  in a conventional stereo audio system, or for the 
front channels in a home theatre system, they should be positioned approximately 
as follows:
Contents
Page Section
    In-wall Speaker Positioning 
3   2  In-ceiling Speaker Positioning
 
4   3  In-wall and In-ceiling Speaker Connection
 
5   4 
In-wall and In-ceiling Speaker Installation 
6   5  Listening
 
6   6  Warranty
 
6   7  Contact Acoustic Energy
1. In-wall Speaker Positioning 
						

							
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Mono audio is usually preferable in utility applications but if only stereo is available 
multiple speakers in the same room or zone should be connected alternately to the 
left and right channels.
In choosing locations for the speakers consider the “coverage” required with respect 
to the likely listener positions. Try and ensure that coverage is even and that as 
listeners move around the environment the sound from one speaker is gradually  
“replaced” by the sound from the next nearest speaker. The overall volume should 
be relatively constant.
Mounting Clearances
Clearance depth is required behind the speaker aperture and clearance space 
is required on the inside surface of the wall on the longer sides of the speaker 
aperture. 
The minimum depth clearance behind the speaker aperture, measured from the 
outer surface of the wall, is  02mm (4 inches). The minimum 
space along the longer 
sides of the speaker aperture is 38mm (.5 inches). Only nominal clearance is 
required on the short sides of the speaker aperture - the speaker frame can butt-up 
against internal joists if necessary.
Caution
When cutting apertures in walls or ceilings ensure that pipes and cables are 
clear. Ensure also that the structure of the walls will safely carry the weight of 
the speakers. If you are unsure about any aspect of installation you should seek 
professional advice and assistance.
I n t r o d u c t i o n1 .   I n - w a l l   S p e a k e r   P o s i t i o n i n g
2.0 - 3.0m
Left and right speakers  at screen height.
Centre speaker in landscape orientation below screen.
D i a g r a m   O n e
Surround speaker above head height. Duplicate on opposite wall. Subwoofer
•  Between 2.0 and 3.0 metres apart (either side of the   
  screen in home theatre systems).
 
•  In portrait orientation.
 
•  Clear of corners.
 
•  Angled inward towards the listening position.
 
•  Slightly above, listening head-height (and around   
  screen height in home theatre systems).
If a speaker is unavoidably positioned close to a corner 
and consequently generates too much bass this 
may be reduced by connecting it via the Boundary 
Compensation input. See Section 3.
If a speaker is to be used for the centre channel 
in a home theatre system it should be positioned 
approximately as follows:
• Directly above or below the display screen.
 
•  In portrait orientation (Aelite  55 Ci).
 
•  In landscape orientation (Aelite 255 Ci)
If two or more speakers are to be used for the surround 
channels in a home theatre system they should be 
positioned approximately as follows:
• In-line with and behind (in 7. systems) the     
  listening position. 
 
•  At least 0.5m above listening head height.
 
•  In portrait orientation.
Diagram One illustrates general home-theatre in-wall 
speaker positioning.
Don’t worry if, thanks to the architecture 
or layout of your room, it is not practical 
to follow each requirement exactly. The 
most important thing is to consider the 
practical option and identify the one that 
is likely to work best.
Utility Speaker Positioning
If your Aelite Custom Install speakers are 
to be used as multiple “utility” speakers in 
an environment where the intention is to 
provide background music they should 
be equally distributed throughout the 
space and mounted at or just above head 
height.
1. In-wall Speaker Positioning 
						

							
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2 .   I n - c e i l i n g   S p e a k e r   P o s i t i o n i n g
Aelite Custom Install In-ceiling speakers are intended to be used in high quality 
distributed audio systems or as surround speakers in home-theatre systems.
The location of speakers within a listening environment is likely to have more 
influence over their subjective performance than any other aspect of installation. It 
is worth spending some time considering both the finer points of speaker location, 
as well as the larger scale issues of room and speaker layout.
Almost certainly your speakers will be used in one of two applications: 
•      As surround speakers in a Home theatre system where the location of 
speakers relative to each other is important.
•    In utility “background sound” applications where single speakers are used 
in isolation to “cover” a specific area or areas.
These two types of application are covered in the paragraphs below.
Aelite Custom Install speakers are magnetically shielded so may be positioned in 
relatively close proximity to magnetically sensitive equipment and media.
Home Theatre Speaker Positioning
If two or more speakers are to be used for the surround channels in a home theatre 
system they should be positioned approximately as follows:
• In-line with and behind (in 7. systems) the listening position. 
 
•  All approximately equidistant from the listening position.
 
•  A minimum of  .5m from the listening position but at least 0.5m away from    
  walls. 
Utility Speaker Positioning
If your Aelite Custom Install In-ceiling speakers are to be used as multiple “utility” 
speakers in an environment where the intention is to provide background music 
they should be equally distributed throughout the space. In-ceiling speakers should 
be kept a minimum of 0.5m away from walls.
Mono audio is usually preferable in utility applications but if only stereo is available 
multiple speakers in the same room or zone should be connected alternately to the 
left and right channels.
In choosing locations for the speakers consider the “coverage” required with respect 
to the likely listener positions. Try and ensure that coverage is even and that as 
listeners move around the environment the sound from one speaker is gradually  
“replaced” by the sound from the next nearest speaker. The overall volume should 
be relatively constant.
Mounting Clearances
Clearance depth is required behind the speaker aperture 
and clearance space is required on the inside surface of 
the ceiling around the speaker aperture. 
The minimum depth clearance behind the speaker 
aperture, measured from the outer surface of the ceiling, 
is 02mm to  53mm (4 to 6 inches) depending on the 
specific speaker model. The minimum space around the 
speaker aperture is 38mm (.5 inches).
Caution
When cutting apertures in walls or ceilings ensure that 
pipes and cables are clear. Ensure also that the structure 
of the walls will safely carry the weight of the speakers. 
If you are unsure about any aspect of installation you 
should seek professional advice and assistance.
3 .   I n - w a l l   a n d   I n - c e i l i n g   S p e a k e r   C o n n e c t i o n 
						

							
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2 .   I n - c e i l i n g   S p e a k e r   P o s i t i o n i n g3 .   I n - w a l l   a n d   I n - c e i l i n g   S p e a k e r   C o n n e c t i o n
Connecting Aelite Custom Install speakers to an amplifier is fundamentally a simple 
process. However, there are some choices to be made and issues to consider 
concerning speaker cable type. Each speaker is fitted with spring connection 
terminals designed to accept stripped wires.
Three terminals are fitted to Aelite Custom Install In-wall speakers: negative, 
positive and an alternative positive that offers a Boundary Compensation 
response designed to reduce any excessive bass output that may occur if a speaker 
is unavoidably installed too close to a corner. Identification of the terminals is 
illustrated in Diagram Two below.
Two terminals are fitted to Aelite Custom Install In-ceiling speakers: negative and 
positive.
To connect the speakers simply push the top of the terminal down, insert the 
stripped wire into the hole and release the terminal.
Take care not to connect any negative and positive terminals together and “short-
circuit” the amplifier. Always make connections with the amplifier switched off.
Connection Polarity.
It is important to ensure that each speaker is connected with the same polarity. 
Positive speaker terminals should always be connected back to amplifier positive 
terminals, and negative speaker terminals connected back to amplifier negative 
terminals. Performance will be degraded if connections are made with incorrect 
polarity.
Cable Choice.
Choice of speaker cable type will be influenced by the 
characteristics of other components in your system and 
your dealer or distributor will be able to advise. There 
are however some simple guidelines to consider:
  •    Cable runs to each speaker should be kept as 
short as possible. 
•    Short cable runs are especially important if the 
cable is of relatively small cross-sectional-area. 
•    If the cable is advertised as “directional” care 
should be taken to ensure that its orientation is as 
recommended.
Amplifiers
Aelite Custom Install speakers are relatively high 
sensitivity speakers that do not require generously 
rated power amplifiers for adequate volume levels to be 
achieved in an average listening room. A minimum of 
25 and maximum of  20 Watts into 8 Ohms per channel 
is recommended. They also offer a relatively easy load 
to the amplifier and do not make unusually heavy 
demands on its power delivery.  
No overload protection systems are fitted to Aelite 
Custom Install speakers so it is possible to cause 
damage through over-driving. Such damage can occur 
regardless of the power rating of the driving amplifier 
and is not covered by any warranty. If ever the sound at 
high volumes becomes distorted your speakers are at 
risk of damage. In such circumstances the volume must 
be reduced.
Connect negative
Connect positive
Connect Boundary Compensation positive for reduced LF
D i a g r a m   T w o 
						

							
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4 .   I n - w a l l   a n d   I n - c e i l i n g   S p e a k e r   I n s t a l l a t i o n
Once you have decided on the positions of each 
speaker and established the location of joists, cables or 
pipes, use the Cut-out Template included in the pack 
to mark out the speaker apertures (remember that the 
speaker frame is bigger than the marked hole). Take 
care when installing the speakers not to touch the 
driver units.
To cut and prepare speaker apertures proceed as 
follows:
•     Drill a hole at the centre and check using a piece of 
wire that the appropriate clearances are available.
•      Mark the cut-line and cut the aperture along the 
line using the appropriate tools. Clear any loose 
debris away
•      Run the speaker cable you have chosen to use and 
prepare the ends for connection to the speaker.
Acoustic performance can be improved by placing 
insulation material in the cavity but leaving clear the 
area directly behind the speaker.
Sound Coverage Adjustment
In order to provide some adjustment of sound coverage 
in the listening room, Aelite Custom Install In-Wall 
speaker driver panels may be angled about the long 
axis by ±7°. To adjust the angle push on one side of the 
driver panel until it is angled appropriately. Take care 
not to touch the drivers while adjusting the angle.
The high-frequency drivers in Aelite Custom Install 
In-ceiling speakers can be angled in order to direct 
the sound coverage towards a specific area. To angle a 
driver hold it firmly around its outer frame and gently 
tilt it appropriately. Take great care not to touch the 
driver’s central dome diaphragm.
Painting
Aelite Custom Install speaker outer frames and grilles 
may be painted to match interior design schemes using 
matt emulsion paint. No primer coat is necessary. Use 
two light coats applied with brush or spray.  Use the 
supplied painting mask when painting the outer frame. 
Do not paint grilles while they are fitted and take care 
that a significant number of grille perforations do not 
become blocked. Remove the logo badge and the 
“scrim” cloth attached to the back of the grilles (do not paint the back of the grille). 
Use the wax paper sheet to protect the scrim.
When the paint is dry replace the scrim cloth by pressing it in to place on the back 
of the grille. Fit (or refit) the grille by aligning it with its retaining groove and gently 
pushing-in from its edges. The logo badge can be repositioned to suit.
IR Control
An Infra-Red receiver access hole is provided on the front panel of Aelite Custom 
Install In-Wall speakers behind the grille. As supplied, the access hole is closed-off 
with a plug. If an IR receiver is to be used, remove the plug by gently pushing it 
from the back.
Installing a Speaker
With the aperture cut and prepared the speaker can be fixed in the wall or ceiling. 
Remember to connect the speaker cable before installing the speaker.
If the speaker grille is fitted (they are shipped with grilles removed) remove it by 
pulling gently from its edges. Also remove the wax paper sheet and paint mask 
D i a g r a m   T h r e e
Fixing clamp access hole
4 .   I n - w a l l   a n d   I n - c e i l i n g   S p e a k e r   I n s t a l l a t i o n
Insulation material within cavity 
						

							
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4 .   I n - w a l l   a n d   I n - c e i l i n g   S p e a k e r   I n s t a l l a t i o n4 .   I n - w a l l   a n d   I n - c e i l i n g   S p e a k e r   I n s t a l l a t i o n
Before using your Aelite Custom Install speakers for the first time make one 
final check of the cables and connections. If all appears well begin listening at 
a relatively low level to confirm that the system is operating as expected. Only 
increase the volume if you are happy with the sound at low levels. If you are 
unhappy, turn the system off and re-check all the cables and connections.
The speakers may take a little time to reach normal operating temperatures 
and to “run-in”. It is unwise therefore to make too rapid a judgement about the 
performance of the monitors. Your ears too will take some time to adjust to the 
new sound so revisiting the speaker installation is best left for a few days.
Your Acoustic Energy speakers are guaranteed against original defects in materials, 
manufacture and workmanship for 3 years from the date of purchase.
Under this warranty Acoustic Energy agrees to repair any defect or, at the 
company’s discretion, replace the faulty component(s) without charge for parts 
or labour. This warranty does not imply any acceptance by Acoustic Energy or its 
agents for consequential loss or damage and specifically excludes fair wear and 
tear, accident, misuse or unauthorised modification.
This warranty is applicable in the United Kingdom only and does not  in any way 
limit the customer’s legal rights. If you have reason to claim under the warranty 
please contact your dealer in the first instance 
Claims and enquiries under the warranty for Acoustic Energy products purchased 
outside the UK should be addressed to the local importers or distributors.
Please retain all original packaging materials for possible future use.
For any sales, technical or spares enquiries contact your local dealer or distributor 
first.
Products  that  display  the  crossed-out  wheeled  bin logo  cannot  be  disposed  of  as  domestic  waste but  must  be  taken  to  a  facility  capable  of  re-cycling  them  and  appropriately  handling any  waste  by-products.  Contact  your  local authority  for  details  of  the  nearest  such  facility.
7 .   C o n t a c t
Acoustic Energy Limited 
16 Bridge Road 
Cirencester 
Gloucestershire GL7 1NJ 
UK
Tel:   +44 (0)1285 654432 (Sales)
 
  +44 (0)1285 656890 (Technical)
 
Fax:    +44 (0)1285 654430
 
Email:  [email protected]
 
Web:   www.acoustic-energy.co.uk
6 .   W a r r a n t y
5 .   L i s t e n i n g
from inside the grille. To insert and secure a speaker in a 
wall or ceiling proceed as described following. Diagram 
Three illustrates an Aelite 255 Ci in-wall speaker offered-
up to a wall aperture.
•  Ensuring that the fixing clamps are lying flush 
against the sides of the speaker, offer the speaker up to 
the aperture and hold it in place so that any clearance is 
distributed approximately equally around the aperture.  • 
Using a No. 2 Pozidriv screwdriver via the access holes tighten the four or 
six fixing clamps in turn. As the screws begin to tighten the fixing clamps will turn 
outwards and  begin to make contact with the rear of the wall or ceiling. Tighten 
just enough to pull the speaker solidly and securely in contact around its entire 
perimeter. Do not over-tighten and Do not use a power driver or drill.
•    Fit the grille by aligning it with its retaining groove and gently pushing from 
its edges. The logo badge is removable and can be repositioned to suit. 
						

							
Acoustic Energy Limited, 16 Bridge Road, Cirencester, Gloucestershire GL7 1NJ. 
Tel: +44 (0)1285 654432 (Sales), +44 (0)1285 656890 (Technical). Fax: +44 (0)1285 654430 
Email: [email protected] 
Web: www.acoustic-energy.co.uk
Manual Part No. MA3101
CUSTOM INSTALL SERIES