Simply

The

Most

Amazing

Subwoofer

I've

Ever

Tested.

There

Might

Be

Better

Subwoofers

On

The

Planet,

But

I Haven't

Heard

Them.

For

The

Ultimate

In

Gut

Wrenching

Bass.

Nova

Power From The Heavens

KOMPRESSOR

S-10 & S-12

Front Firing

Powered

Subwoofers

Operation

Manual

&

Technical

Guide

Earthquake Sound Corporation. 2727 Mc Cone Avenue, Hayward, CA 94545.

www.earthquakesound.com.

On A Personal Note...

Dear Valued Customer,

Welcome to the eclectic world of Earthquake High

Fidelity sound systems; you are about to experience the

Kompressor subwoofer. This system is designed to dramatically enhance your enjoyment of music and films at home, by adding power and impact to low frequency sound effects.

Earthquake Sound Corporation is located in the heart of the Silicon Valley. It specializes in manufacturing high end

Home and Car audio products ranging from the smallest driver to the loudest subwoofer system. In its dedication to excellence,

Earthquake has maintained extensive programs in research and development to provide you with the highest quality audio products.

This owners manual is designed to better acquaint you with the Kompressor subwoofer system, and to guide you through the phases of system design and application. It is imperative that you read this manual in its entirety.

EARTHQUAKE technicians and staff are looking forward to answer any questions you might have, please call (1-800-576-

7944).

Joseph J. Sahyoun - Vice President and inventor of the SLAPS - proudly showing off a SLAPS12 at one of the subwoofers assembly lines.

CAUTION: the Kompressor subwoofer system is capable of generating high sound pressure levels. You should exercise caution when operating this subwoofer system. Long term exposures to high levels of sound pressure will cause permanent damage to your hearing. Sound pressure levels exceeding 85dB can be dangerous with constant exposure. Set your audio system to a comfortable loudness level. The Kompressor subwoofer system is designed to generate high levels of low frequencies (110 dB to 128 dB at 15 Hz to 20 Hz) and this will transmit a tremendous amount of vibration into walls, shelves and the structure; thus causing sheet rock flexing, glass and other objects to fall off shelves. Earthquake Sound Corporation does not assume liability for damages resulting from the direct use of the

Kompressor , and urges users to play the Kompressor in moderate levels.

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Safe & Proper Handling Of Your Kompressor.

The Kompressor subwoofer system weighs over 60 Lbs. It is considerably heavy for an average person to carry or maneuver.

To prevent injuries, and eliminate any possible damage to your

Kompressor, we encourage you to employ the help of a friend when unpacking the unit; further we suggest the following:

#1. Always wear a back support belt when carrying / lifting the

Kompressor.

#2. If possible, get someone to help you move the Kompressor around.

#3. Do not apply pressure or push against the face of the speaker; this will cause irreparable damage to the cone and suspension.

#4. When carrying the Kompressor, make sure that the speaker is on the other side, away from your chest (eliminating the chance of pushing against the face of the speaker).

#5. Do not drop the Kompressor, or subject it to sudden shocks.

This will damage the external finish and weaken the enclosure, creating air leaks.

#6. Avoid exposing the Kompressor to moisture. Water will damage the wood structure as well as the amplifier and speakers.

#7. Cleaning the Kompressor is best done using soft cloth; if needed, use mild detergent with water. Like with any other electrical unit, always unplug the Kompressor before cleaning it.

Unpacking Your Kompressor

Always wear a back support, and get someone to help you carrying / lifting the subwoofer.

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Do not apply pressure or push against the face of the speaker. When carrying the Kompressor, make sure the speaker is on the other side away from your chest.

Kompressor Performance.

Connecting Your Subwoofer

Low level -RCA- audio input connection:

This is the best way to drive an audio signal into the Kompressor subwoofer. Today, all signal processors(5.1/6.1 and more advanced ones) come equipped with built-in pre-amplifier outputs (RCA) that include a subwoofer output.

Generally, the SUB/OUT is in mono format. As shown in the photos across, connect the SUB/OUT from the processor to the

Kompressor using a "Y" connector to feed both RCA inputs of the subwoofer.

We strongly recommend that you use the best available RCA connectors and cables. High quality cables are normally triple shielded, and the connectors are gold plated with forceful grasping (refer to

Earthquake line of accessories- SI superior Interconnect - at www.earthquakesound.com).

RCA connection from Processor to a Kompressor using a "Y" connector.

High level audio input connection:

This is the least desired way to drive an audio signal into the subwoofer. Older stereo systems are not equipped with pre-amplifier audio outputs, normally they come with stereo speaker outputs (left

& right).

Using "banana" plugs, connect the speaker outputs to the corresponding Subwoofer high level inputs (marked "FROM RECEIVER). In this configuration, the front stereo speakers (towers) can be powered up by connecting them to the subwoofer speaker outputs (marked "TO SPEAKERS"). The amount of power (watts) driven into the stereo speakers (towers) is identical to the amount of power

(watts) fed into the SuperNova from the stereo system

(ratio 1:1).

AC power connection:

The SuperNova subwoofer is available in two models:

110V and 220V/24. The power socket if fused to protect the amplifier from surges. Do not overfuse, replace the fuse with identical value.

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What Makes A Kompressor?

Class "A/B" Amp

* 200 watts class "AB" , high efficiency power amplifier.

* 24 dB / Octave variable filter from 40

Hz to 160 Hz.

* Automatic signal detection circuitry,

When "ON", it automatically turn on the subwoofer when an audio signal is detected. It also shuts the subwoofer off after 30 minutes if no signal is detected.

* High level (speaker) audio inputs.

* Low level (RCA) audio inputs.

* Full range speaker outputs that can be used to power up other full range speakers in the system.

XLT Drivers

Every component of the XLT driver is designed for accurate reproduction of bass and sub-bass frequencies. With a massive moving structure, the XLT operates with extremely low distortion and impressive transient response. Its performance is attributed to a non-conventional motor structure design, that integrates components such as:

* Thick, high-gauss magnets, with a total height of 1.2 inches.

* Over 7 inch (D), epoxy coated super spider. Chill-plated for long lasting linear performance.

* 2.5" diameter, high temperature voice coil, with 1,85" copper winding (height).

* 1.5" thick, single layer, thermally pressed poly-ether foam surround.

The XLT structure allows for extreme excursions (19 to 21mm) without physical deformation or running out of Reactive

Electromagnetic Coupling.

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Setting Up Your Subwoofer.

The Kompressor is a "true subwoofer, it must never be operated above the subharmonic / harmonic frequency range. The

Kompressor frequency response is limited by the built-in crossover (with an upper end of 160 Hz); however, in most applications, the crossover should not be set above 80Hz to 95Hz. It is equipped with a fourth-order Linkwitz-Riley filter which will block vocals from interfering with its performance.

When setting up the Kompressor as a part of a home audio system, users must understand that the subwoofer requires different settings: one for music, and one for playing movie tracks. In order to set up the Kompressor for music, users must recognize the frequency response of their existing speakers (tower & surround sound) and the limitations of these speakers, i.e. the diameter (size) of the speakers and the SPL.

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+8.0

+7.0

+6.0

+5.0

+4.0

+3.0

Crossover knob in 1 O'clock position - 85Hz @ -3dB.

CROSSOVER

FREQUENCY

24dB/Oct

40Hz 160Hz

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+1.0

0.0

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VOLUME

10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 200Hz

For music setting:

1- Position the Kompressor in the corner of the living room.

2- Turn the unit around to expose the controls .

3- Turn on your audio system, and switch your surround sound processor to "MUSIC" mode, and equalize the rest of your audio system.

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+8.0

+7.0

+6.0

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+3.0

+2.0

+1.0

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-1.0

-2.0

Crossover knob in 2 O'clock position - 90Hz @ -3dB.

VOLUME

CROSSOVER

FREQUENCY

24dB/Oct

40Hz 160Hz

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-4.0

-5.0

-6.0

-7.0

-8.0

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10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 200Hz

4- Connect the Kompressor to the processor, using high quality (triple shielded) RCA cables.

5- Set the crossover to 150Hz - maximum position, volume at minimum (0).

6- Gradually raise the main volume knob ( between the 10 O'clock to 2 O'clock) position, optimizing for the subwoofer performance. That is when the Optical Compression Circuitry works best, allowing the amp maximum output with minimal distortion.

7- With the crossover open to 160Hz, you will hear vocals coming out of the subwoofer. Gradually reduce the crossover point until vocals are eliminated (typical crossing point of 80Hz).

To control the volume level of the Kompressor, use the surround sound processor output controls; do not use the main volume knob on the Kompressor (keep it between 10 & 2 O'Clock position). Once you set up the proper mix of low frequencies and subharmonic response, that does not encroach on the rest of the speakers. Now you are ready to set up the Kompressor for home theater use.

For movie viewing:

The Kompressor can be set up to your liking. There are no rules of thumb to how much bass is required. Often, users like to feel the overwhelming bass, it brings the actions and events closer to real life. When viewing movies, a 10dB gain above music setting is often pleasant, it brings movie viewing close to life.

If you desire to have a crossover setting for music, different than the setting for movie viewing. We suggest to cross the

Kompressor at higher frequency setting, and use the processor to control the desired lower crossing point.

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Five (5) Years Limited Warranty.

Earthquake warrants the original purchaser that all Factory Sealed New Audio Products be free from defects in material and workmanship, under normal and proper use, for a period of five (5) years from the date of purchase (as shown on the original bill of sale with serial number affixed/written on it). The five (5) years warranty period is valid only if the product is properly installed by an Earthquake authorized party, and the warranty registration card is properly filled out and sent to

Earthquake Sound Corporation. If the product is installed by a non-authorized party, a ninety (90) days warranty period applies.

(A) Five (5) years limited warranty plan coverage guidelines:

First year: Earthquake pays for labor, parts, and ground freight (only in US mainland, not including Alaska and

Hawaii) back to customer.

Second year: Earthquake pays for labor and parts only, customer must pay freight both ways.

Third, fourth & fifth year: Earthquake pays labor only. Customer must pay for parts and freight both ways.

(B) Warning:

Products (sent for repair) that are tested by Earthquake technicians and deemed to have no problem, will not be covered by the five (5) years limited warranty. Customer will be charged a minimum of one (1) hour of labor (ongoing rates) plus shipping charges back to customer.

(C) Earthquake agrees to repair or replace - at our option - all such defective products/parts subject to the following provisions:

Defective products/parts have not been altered or repaired by other than an Earthquake factory approved technician.

Products/parts are not subjected to negligence, misuse, improper use, or accident, damaged by improper line voltage, used with incompatible products, or have its serial number or any part of it altered, defaced or removed, or have been used in any way that is contrary to Earthquake's written instructions.

(D) Warranty Limitations:

Earthquake warranty does not cover products that have been modified or abused. Including but not limited to the following:

Damages to speaker cabinet and cabinet finish due to misuse, abuse, or use of improper use of cleaning materials/methods.

Bent speaker frame, broken speaker connectors, holes in speaker cone, surround & dust cap, burnt speaker voice coil.

Fading, deterioration of speaker components & finish due to improper exposure to elements.

Bent amplifier casing, damaged finish on the casing due to abuse, misuse, or improper use of cleaning material.

Burnt tracers on PCB.

Product/part damaged due to poor packaging or abusive shipping conditions.

- Subsequent damage to other products.

A warranty claim will not be valid if the warranty registration card is not properly filled & returned to Earthquake with a copy of the sales invoice.

(E) Service Request:

To receive product/s service, contact Earthquake service department at (510) 732-1000 and request an RMA number

(Return Material Authorization), items shipped without a valid RMA number will be refused. Make sure you provide us with your complete/correct shipping address, a valid phone number, and a brief description of the problem you are experiencing with the product. In most cases, our technicians might be able to resolve the problem over the phone, thus eliminating the need to ship the product.

(F) Shipping Instructions:

Product/s must be packaged in its original protective boxe/s to minimize transport damage. Shipper claims regarding items damaged in transit must be presented to carrier. Earthquake Sound Corporation reserves the right to refuse product improperly packed. Original bill of sale must accompany product returned for service. We encourage you to include with the package a written description of the problem. Ship product to: Earthquake Sound Corp. 2727 Mc Cone Avenue, Hayward, CA

94545. Ph (510) 732-1000. You are responsible for the cost of shipping the product to Earthquake Sound Corporation.

(G) Disputes Resolution:

All disputes - between clients and Earthquake Sound Corporation - resulting from the five (5) years limited warranty policy must be resolved according to the laws & regulations of the county of Alameda -California.

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Warranty Registration Card.

Required Information:

First name:__________________________________________________________________________

Last name:__________________________________________________________________________

Street address:_______________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

City:_________________________________________State:_______________ Zip:______________

Phone number: (_______)______________________________________________________________

Model number:_______________________________________________________________________

Date of purchase:_____________________________________________________________________

Purchase price:_______________________________________________________________________

Serial number: _______________________________________________________________________

Dealer name:________________________________________________________________________

Dealer address:______________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

City:______________________________________ State:________________ Zip:_________________

Signature:____________________________________________________ Date:_________________

Voluntary information:

Birth date:_______________________________________ Married:__________ Single:____________

How did you learn about our product? _____________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

Your Comments: _____________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

From: _______________________

____________________________

____________________________

____________________________

To: Earthquake Sound Corporation.

2727 Mc Cone Avenue,

Hayward, California 94545.

Ph (510) 732-1000.

Place

Stamp

Here

5

YEARS

LIMITED

WARRANTY

(Valid In U.S. Mainland Only- Excluding Alaska & Hawaii)