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Features
Mounting
Features
Design: With its two tweeters, dual voice coil woofer, and
discrete inputs, the VSi 580T2 is essentially two speakers built into one frame.
The two inputs can be used to create stereo output where only one speaker is
mounted, output left and right surround back channels from only one speaker, or
two VSi 580T2s can reproduce both surround and surround back channels. The
Diffuse setting creates a dipole speaker, also useful in surround sound
applications.
Woofer: The Boston Acoustics VSi 580T2 uses an 8" DCD
(Deep Channel Design) copolymer woofer with a die-cast aluminum basket. The DCD
woofer uses a deeply grooved pole plate that enables the voice coil to travel
farther for greater output without bottoming.
Tweeters: The two 1" VR aluminum dome tweeters are
angled away from one another to create stereo separation. Compared to a soft
dome, aluminum is equally light, yet more rigid. Compared to other hard dome
materials, aluminum is better able to accurately track the input signal.
Stereo Application: The stereo input and dual tweeters
deliver a stereo signal from a single speaker design, useful in hallways and
other locations where mounting two speakers is not convenient.
Diffuse/Direct Modes: When using the VSi 580T2 as a surround
speaker, it can be configured in either direct or diffuse mode. In direct mode,
the speaker has an even dispersion pattern in all directions. In diffuse mode
the tweeters act as a dipole speaker and create a null field under the speaker
perpendicular to the tweeter plane.
Moisture Resistant: The VSi 580T2 is well suited for humid
environments like the kitchen or bathroom. Make sure they are positioned so
that moisture cannot collect inside them. They are not designed for locations
where they will be submerged.
Inputs: Spring loaded posts will accept banana plugs (single
or dual) or bare wire up to 12 gauge. A jumper plug on the back of the speaker
is used to select single or dual input.
Mounting
Placement: Optimum placement of the VSi 580T2 varies based
on how it's used, stereo vs. single channel, diffuse mode vs. direct. If it's
the only speaker in a small room, installation in the center of the room is
often best. The best placement as a surround speaker depends on how many
speakers are used and whether they are surround or surround back speakers, or
both simultaneously. The tweeters are mounted on an island that will rotate
approximately 180°, so the direction of the tweeter plane can be adjusted after
installation. Several specific mounting examples are addressed in the manual.
Installation: After a 10-7/8" diameter cutout is made
the speaker is installed into the opening and held into place with four integral
plastic mounting ears. The required depth to install the speaker is 4-15/16"
from the mounting surface (this includes the thickness of the drywall). Behind
the opening there must be a 1" clearance around the speaker to accommodate
the ears. The mounting wall material must be at least 1/4" thick for the
mounting ears to work.
Magnetic Grille: The grille is magnetically mounted for easy
installation.
Paintable: Both the frame and grille can be painted to match
the ceiling. A plastic paint mask is included to protect the speaker from being
painted as well.
Optional Bracket: The NCBR8 new-construction bracket (sold
separately) can be used to simplify installation in new construction.