Design; Placement - NHT iWS Owner's Manual

Thank you for your purchase of the NHT iWS In-Wall Subwoofer System. Please take a few minutes to read through this
Owner's Manual prior to installing your new subwoofer. The information provided will help you to obtain maximum perfor-
mance from your audio system. If you have questions or need assistance at any time during the installation or operation
of your new speakers, please call your NHT Dealer or our Toll-Free Customer Hotline at:

Design

NHT loudspeakers are designed to deliver refined, musical sound from attractive and affordable packages. Our efforts are
guided by the study of human hearing and are optimized for real-world use. Every NHT speaker undergoes rigorous
testing and quality control at the factory to ensure you years of listening pleasure.
The iWS In-Wall Subwoofer System is designed to deliver the sonic performance and value of NHT's acclaimed free-
standing subwoofers, while offering the invisibility of in-wall installation. The system comprises a custom-designed 12"
woofer, the A1 amplifier, and the X1 crossover. The rigid acoustic suspension enclosure is designed to minimize the audi-
ble effects of unwanted vibrations and resonances when mounted within standard frame construction. The powerful and
versatile A1 amplifier provides 200W output and a host of convenience features, while the X1 Crossover allows the sys-
tem to achieve 27Hz bass extension from an extremely small cabinet.
Caution: The iWS should be installed by an experienced and licensed custom installation professional. Be sure that the
installer possesses sufficient skill, the proper tools, knowledge of local fire and building codes, and a familiarity with the
structure of the building (especially wall and/or ceiling materials, layouts, electrical and plumbing lines, etc.).

Placement

The iWS is designed for interior in-wall installation between standard 2"x4" wood studs. Installation in outdoor locations or
in moisture-prone interior environments such as indoor swimming pools or saunas is not recommended.
Spend some time considering placement prior to installing the subwoofer(s). Once it is installed, the iWS is permanent, so
its location should be selected carefully. Contrary to popular belief, subwoofers are sensitive to placement. Low frequen-
cies produce long wavelengths and thus interact with room boundaries significantly. Placing the subwoofer near a corner
will tend to increase its bass output, but may result in "boomy" or "muddy" sound. Conversely, placing the subwoofer far-
ther into the room will tend to decrease its bass output, but may result in improved articulation and clarity. For flattest
response, install the subwoofer according to the "rule of thirds": in a location 1/3 or 2/3 across a wall, and not 1/4 or 1/2
across the wall. A 1/3 or 2/3 location will excite fewer standing waves in the room.
Generally, the iWS should be installed along the same wall as the main (satellite) speakers for optimal integration. Position
the subwoofer so that it faces into the room, unobstructed by large furnishings. Install it on a flat wall surface to ensure a
good seal between the bezel and the wall. If you are using two iWS subwoofers in the same room, it is preferable to install
the second subwoofer assymetrically. For example, one subwoofer in a front corner, and one subwoofer 2/3 across the
front wall.
The iWS subwoofer is not magnetically shielded, and the woofer will distort a direct view (picture tube) type TV if installed
too close. Make sure that if the woofer is oriented directly behide the TV , the TV is at least two feet away. If the TV is off
to the side or above of the woofer, make sure it is three feet away.
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