TCS SERIES
TCS-C50T
Ceiling Speaker
USER MANUAL
Turbosound Ltd.
Star Road, Partridge Green
West Sussex RH13 8RY England
Tel: +44 (0)1403 711447
Fax: +44 (0)1403 710155
Issue 1.1 August 2006
Copyright © 2006 Turbosound Ltd.
user manual
TCS Compact series
Introduction
Congratulations, you have just purchased a professional loudspeaker product from the
TCS Series sound contracting loudspeaker range, designed to give you the best in audio
quality and many years of reliable, trouble free operation. It offers excellent pattern
control, superior audio quality, full technical documentation including EASE data, and a
comprehensive warranty against manufacturing defects. Please read through this manual
carefully before you attempt to operate the loudspeaker system. It contains valuable
information enabling you to quickly and easily connect the loudspeakers to your
amplifiers, important system and set-up checks.
Thanks
Thank you for choosing a TURBOSOUND TCS Series loudspeaker product for your
application. Please spare a little time to read the contents of this manual, so that you
obtain the best possible performance from this unit.
All TURBOSOUND products are carefully engineered for world class performance and
reliability.
If you would like further information about this or any other TURBOSOUND product,
please contact us. Detailed product information is available on our web site at
We look forward to helping you in the near future.
Unpacking
After unpacking the unit please check carefully for damage. If damage is found, please
notify the carrier concerned at once. You, the consignee, must instigate any claim. Please
retain all packaging in case of future re-shipment.
Package Contents
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Product Summary
General Features
TCS series ceiling loudspeakers are designed for use in a wide variety of fixed installation
applications that require professional sound quality, ranging from cafés, pubs, bars and
restaurants to retail stores, nightclubs, live music venues and houses of worship.
•
High-grade speaker components are matched with an internal passive crossover
to ensure a seamless transition between the HF and LF drivers.
•
•
Products conform to BS5839 and IEC/EN 60849 fire prevention standards
Architecturally friendly design ensure that the loudspeakers can be effectively
and easily blended into any environment
•
•
High quality line transformer supplied as standard, enabling connection to all
70volt and 100volt line distributed systems, as well as providing a low
impedance option.
Steel back can for optimum acoustic performance, optionally supplied without
back can where space above ceilings is limited.
•
•
Paintable ABS speaker can be matched to a specific decor
TCS Series ceiling loudspeakers are fully supported with EASE polar data
(available to download from the Turbosound web site at www.turbosound.com).
This enables accurate and predictable results when specifying sound systems in
a given venue.
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Model Information
Steel Fire can
Loudspeaker
Tap Selector
Tweeter
Attachment Screws
Input Connector
Strain Relief Fitting
Terminal Cover Plate
Rotating Mounting Tabs
Perforated Grille
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TCS-C50T
The TCS-C50T is a high quality full range two-way passive ceiling loudspeaker designed
for use in background sound reinforcement applications in a wide range of fixed
installations such as restaurants, retail shops, hotels, cafes, airports, boardrooms,
conference centres, nightclubs, pubs and bars.
It consists of a front loaded 5” bass/mid frequency driver and a 1” ferrofluid-cooled
neodymium soft dome tweeter, matched with an internal passive crossover network, in
an easy-mount fire-retardant paintable ABS ceiling frame with a perforated mesh grille.
The TCS-C50T is rated at 75 watts r.m.s., and has a usable frequency range of 75Hz to
22kHz. It features a wide, conical dispersion pattern suitable for all high quality
background music and speech applications.
An optional universal tile grid is designed to fit into any ceiling grid, allowing the cabling
to be pre-terminated before the speaker is located, and secured using the four quarter-
turn fixing tabs.
The TCS-C50T is supplied as standard with a constant voltage transformer for use on all
70 volt and 100 volt line distributed systems. Four power taps plus the low impedance
setting can be selected via an easily accessible switch located behind the removable
speaker grille. The TCS-C50T conforms to BS5839 fire prevention standards, as well as
IEC/EN 60849.
184.4mm
[7.3"]
186.9mm
[7.4"]
D268mm
[10.6"]
211mm
[8.3"]
240mm
[9.5"]
165mm
[6.5"]
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System Considerations
Amplifier Requirements
Turbosound loudspeaker enclosures should be driven by high quality power amplifiers
designed for true professional use. Such amplifiers will have balanced inputs, DC and RF
fault protection, and well designed cooling systems for reliability.
For low impedance systems the ‘program’ power, listed in the loudspeaker’s technical
specification, is the best guide to the size of amplifier required for general purpose
applications. The amplifier should be capable of delivering long term broadband power
equal to the loudspeaker’s program power rating at the loudspeaker’s stated nominal
impedance. This approach allows sufficient headroom to generate good dynamic range.
RECOMMENDED AMPLIFIER POWER RATINGS:
The amplifier's rated r.m.s. continuous power output (20Hz – 20kHz, per
channel) should be equal to the program power handling of the
loudspeaker at its nominal impedance.
It should be understood that overdriving an insufficiently powered amplifier is more likely
to cause loudspeaker damage – the total energy in a heavily clipped signal is far higher
than in an unclipped signal – than operating a more powerful amplifier within its ratings.
In general, the more powerful the amplifier the better it will sound, provided that it is not
also driven into sustained clipping.
All the equipment in the system before the system controller should be set up for 0dBV
(775mV) maximum output. One controller can be used to feed several amplifiers as long
as all the amplifiers are the same (or have the same gain ratings). More than one
controller may be required if the amplifiers are of different gain or type. Please contact
your dealer if you require help in this area.
In a distributed system the amplifiers must be capable of supplying broadband power
equivalent to the sum of the power rating of the loudspeakers (taking into account the
individual power taps selected) connected to that particular amplifier channel.
Turbosound recommends the T-series amplifiers for use with the TCS Compact series
system.
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Crossovers and Processors
The TCS-C50T is a passive loudspeaker system. This means that it requires only one
amplifier channel for correct operation, the frequency splitting between the low
frequency driver and the high frequency driver being accomplished by the internal
passive crossover network.
If subwoofers are used, additional amplifier channels and external electronic crossovers
may be required. The Turbosound LMS-D24/26 digital management systems are
recommended for this purpose.
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Installation Procedure
1.
Select the ceiling tile(s) to be used for mounting the loudspeaker(s) and remove it
from the ceiling. Mark the cutout either by tracing from the cardboard template
supplied with the loudspeaker, or by placing the tile bridge on the rear side of the
tile, making sure that it is centred in both directions. Cut the hole with a knife or with
a circular cutter set to 240mm (9 7/16”).
Ø240
2. Remove the loudspeaker grille by pushing on the speaker attachment tabs.
Loosen the four attachment screws and fold the tabs sideways until they touch the
steel back can, allowing the speaker to pass freely through the cutout. Assemble the
speaker, tile bridge and tile together and tighten the attachment screws to tighten
the mounting tabs. Note that the first 1/4 turn rotates the tab outwards and away
from the can, and subsequent turns tighten the tab down onto the ceiling tile. DO
NOT OVERTIGHTEN.
3. The tile grid is designed to fit either 24” or 600mm wide tiles. The tile grid does not
physically attach to the T-grid struts; instead the inverted V-shapes at the ends sit
over the top of the T-grid struts. During normal circumstances the speaker is
supported by the edge of the tile. In the unlikely event that the tile should come out
or fall apart, the ends of the tile grid are designed to catch onto the T-grid, thereby
preventing the loudspeaker from falling.
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4.
Connect the wiring to the removable connector. A 4-way connector is supplied with
the loudspeaker. Strip the insulation back by 5mm (3/16”), insert the bare ends of
the wire into the connector (do not tin the wire) and screw down the hold-down
screw with a small flat blade screwdriver.
There are two possible connection strategies, depending on the desired circuit result
when a single unit is disconnected for trouble shooting or servicing:
Parallel Input Terminals. This allows the circuit to remain intact whenever a
speaker is disconnected. Connect the outgoing pair of wires to the same
terminals as the incoming pair of wires.
+
-
Inp
Link
Input
Link
Input
Link
Input
Link
Power Amplifier
- +
+
-
- +
+
-
- +
+
-
- +
+
-
Speaker 1
Speaker 2
Speaker 3
Loop-through Terminals. All loudspeakers after this unit will be disconnected,
helping to isolate problems to a section of the distributed line while leaving the
wires connected to the connector.
+
-
Inp
Link
Input
Link
Input
Link
Input
Link
Power Amplifier
-
+
+
-
- +
+
-
- +
+
-
-
+
+
-
Speaker 1
Speaker 2
Speaker 3
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5. Plug the connector into the socket in the loudspeaker’s terminal cup. The connector
is polarised to avoid the possibility of mis-connection.
6. The terminal cover also acts as the strain relief. Rotate the cover clockwise and
tighten the retaining screw.
7. Attach the safety lanyard to a separate support point. Consult construction codes in
your region.
8. Insert the speaker, together with the tile grid and tile, into the ceiling and allow its
weight to settle down onto the grid.
9. Adjust the voltage tap selector for desired level. The selector is located on the front
baffle, and should be adjusted before fitting the grille. In some installations it may
be preferable to leave grilles off until final adjustment of the tap selectors has been
completed for all loudspeakers.
10. Fit the loudspeaker grille. Orientate the grille such that the logo is facing in the
desired direction, and press the grille firmly into place until it is flush with the rim.
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Painting the Loudspeaker
Painting before Installation
The speaker’s white finish matches most décor schemes and does not need further
finishing. However where interior design requires an alternative colour this can be easily
accomplished. The speaker can either be painted before installation, or where the rim
needs to be finished at the same time as the ceiling, the rim can be painted after locating
in the ceiling.
The speaker will accept almost any type of emulsion or oil-based paint. Two coats are
recommended.
Clean the rim and grille with a light solvent such as white spirit. Do not use gasoline,
kerosene, acetone, MEK, paint thinner, harsh detergents or other chemicals, all of which
may damage the loudspeaker.
After cleaning, apply two coats of paint, using a roller or brush, or by spraying.
Painting the Speaker with the Ceiling
Using the paint shield provided, paint the speaker and remove the shield. To paint the
grille, first remove the logo and grille cloth backing. It is advisable to spray the grille to
avoid the mesh becoming clogged with paint from a roller or brush, which may impair
the sound quality. Replace the grille cloth.
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Cable Recommendations
Heavy duty loudspeaker cable should always be used, with a minimum wire size of 12
gauge (1.5mm²), and preferably 10 gauge (2.5mm²) for longer runs, keeping the run as
short as possible. This helps to avoid wasting amplifier power in the resistance of the
cable. High cable resistance also lowers the damping factor of the amplifier which affects
its ability to control loudspeaker cone movement.
Losses due to undersized cable and long runs are clearly illustrated in the table below.
Please use this table to determine the most suitable cable size and maximum run for your
particular application.
Nominal
Cable Area
(mm2)
Cable Length Cable Resistance Voltage Drop (%) 8 ohms
Sensitivity Loss
(dB)
(m)
(W)
8W
0.8
1.6
4.0
7.7
14.3
0.5
1.0
2.4
4.8
9.1
0.3
0.6
1.5
3.0
5.8
4W
1.6
3.2
8W
-0.1
-0.1
-0.4
-0.7
-1.3
0.0
-0.1
-0.2
-0.4
-0.8
0.0
4W
-0.1
-0.3
-0.7
-1.3
-2.5
-0.1
-0.2
-0.4
-0.8
-1.6
-0.1
-0.1
-0.3
-0.5
-1.0
5
10
25
50
100
5
10
25
50
100
5
0.07
0.13
0.33
0.67
1.33
0.04
0.08
0.20
0.40
0.80
0.02
0.05
0.12
0.25
0.50
1.5
2.5
4.0
7.7
14.3
25.0
1.0
2.0
4.8
9.1
16.6
0.6
1.2
3.0
10
25
50
100
-0.1
-0.1
-0.3
-0.5
5.8
11.0
note : Figures based on specifications supplied by Van Damme Cables (VDC)
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Servicing Information
If any of the drive units in your TCS series product should cease functioning and need a
replacement re-cone or diaphragm, you are advised to remove the faulty unit from the
installation, remove the faulty drive unit(s) and send it to a professional service centre
authorised to repair Turbosound loudspeakers.
Removal of the low frequency woofer
The perforated steel loudspeaker grille is a push fit in the loudspeaker frame. To remove
the grille, using a pointed object such as a pin inserted through the mesh of the grille,
gently lever the grille away from the frame. Set the grille aside for later re-assembly.
Undo the screws holding the back can in place and place to one side. The low frequency
drive unit will be accessible once the line transformer has been removed from the back of
the loudspeaker frame. Make a note of the driver terminal polarity for later reconnection.
Disconnect the cables from the drive unit and completely remove the driver from the
speaker being careful not to damage the cone or suspension. Do not place the driver
near to any equipment or media that may be adversely affected by strong magnetism,
e.g. CRT monitors or tape of any kind.
Removal of the high frequency tweeter
Disconnect the cables from the tweeter, making a note of the driver polarity for later
reconnection. Undo the screws holding the tweeter in place and carefully lift it out and
away from the speaker. Do not place the driver near to any equipment or media that may
be adversely affected by strong magnetism, e.g. CRT monitors or magnetic tape of any
kind.
To reinstate the driver(s) simply reverse the above procedure, making sure you observe
the correct polarity when reconnecting the cables back into the terminals of the drive
units.
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About EASE Data
Sound system projects are more likely to go to plan when you have a reliable indicator in
advance of how the speaker system will perform in the venue. Turbosound engineers are
able to assist you with your system design using the industry-standard EASE program to
aid in the quest to find the perfect system for the job. Although we cannot replace the
role of an acoustical consultant, we can provide a good indication of system performance
to back up the proposal.
Statistically, more jobs are won and more sales are made when a project has been
properly and scientifically designed, along with the facility to show the client a convincing
visual representation of the finished design. This cuts a large amount of guesswork out of
the process, and is the reason why we actively encourage you to make use of our design
resources to help you or your customers to win that next job. EASE is also a useful tool
for addressing acoustic issues in the venue, for example to justify adding acoustic
treatment to a room such as cladding a wall or balcony face. Having a graphical model
can strengthen the proposal and ultimately ensure a better result.
Overview
EASE (Enhanced Acoustic Simulator for Engineers) is a sophisticated sound system
design tool and acoustic simulation software package for Windows PCs, created by SDA
(Software Design Ahmert GmbH, Berlin). It enables extremely accurate acoustic
calculations to be realised both for indoor venues and outside spaces. In this way
acoustic parameters and properties can be calculated for audience areas or even
particular listener seats. EASE is particularly useful where a large number of speakers
may be used, i.e. in concert halls, stadiums and public buildings.
The EASE application itself is comprehensive and can account for a wide range of surface
properties, i.e. absorption and dispersion and also early reflections, directivity and phase
characteristics. 3D acoustical models can be created for computing parameters such as
RT (Reverb Time), IR (Impulse Response) and SPL (Sound Pressure Level) distribution for
sound reinforcement and speech intelligibility.
There are a variety of module upgrades that enhance EASE’s capabilities, such as AURA
(Analysis Utility for Room Acoustics) which has become a standard for modelling spaces
in three dimensions along with the VISION rendering engine. EASE VIEW loads OpenGL
and Mapping files as used in the design.
EARS is an auralisation module that allows the determination of audio quality, and the
comparison of old against new sound system installs, by locating sound sources in the
virtual room, or open air space, using convolving and binaural techniques.
EASERA is used for evaluating and measuring the transmission properties of both spaces
and electrical equipment.
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Use of Turbosound EASE data
Turbosound provides pre-measured EASE data to aid sound system designers in making
appropriate choices with the type and positioning of speakers in the required venue. The
suitability of certain models can be assessed and the installation can be improved by
adapting the frequency response consequently.
The speakers are measured from the centre of an entire globe with 5 degree resolution
and third octave frequency resolution.
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Technical Specifications
Model
TCS-C50T
Dimensions
HxWxD
268mm (10.5”) dia x 83mm (3.3”) deep excl back box
268mm (10.5”) dia x 219mm (8.6”) deep incl back box
Net Weight
3.4kg (7.5lbs)
1 x 5” (127mm) LF driver, 1 x 1” (25mm) HF tweeter
75Hz - 22kHz
Components
Frequency Response ±4dB
Nominal Dispersion
Power Handling
180ºH x 180ºV @-6dB points
75 watts r.m.s., 150 watts program
92dB (half space), 90 dB (full space)
Sensitivity
1 watt @ 1 metre
Maximum SPL continuous->
peak->
110dB
116dB
Line transformer taps
60 watts, 30 watts, 15 watts (100 volt line)
60 watts, 30 watts, 15 watts, 7.5 watts (70 volt line)
Impedance
Construction
Grille
16 ohms nominal
Paintable injection moulded ABS plastic
Powder coated perforated steel
Connectors
Protection
Standards
Options
Phoenix 4-way connector for input and link
Thermal fuse disconnects speaker from distributed system
Conforms to BS5839 part 8 1988 and IEC/EN 60849 fire prevention
Without back can (TCS-C50TS)
without back can or transformer (TCS-C50S)
Notes:
1.
2.
3.
Frequency response is measured on axis
Nominal Dispersion and sensitivity are an average over stated bandwidth
Maximum continuous SPL is measured by using unweighted diode-clipped pink noise in a half space
environment.
4.
Maximum peak SPL is verified by subjective listening tests of familiar program material, before the
onset of perceived signal degradation
NB: Due to continuing product improvement these specifications are subject to change.
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Spares List
Spares
LF Driver
LS-50 5” loudspeaker
TW-52 tweeter
PX-TCS-C50T
MG-C50
HF Tweeter
Passive Crossover
Network
Grille
Tile bridge
TCS-C50TB
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Warranty
Limited Warranty
This Turbosound loudspeaker product is warranted to the original end-user purchaser
and all subsequent owners for a period of two (2) years from the original date of
purchase.
Warranty Coverage
Warranty coverage includes defects in materials and workmanship. It does not include:
•
•
•
damage caused by accident, misuse, abuse, neglect or modification by any other
person other than an authorised Turbosound representative,
damage caused by overdriving, use with unsuitable amplifiers or amplifier
failure,
damage caused by failure to operate the product in accordance with the
instructions contained in the user’s manual,
•
•
•
damage occurring during shipment in transit,
claims based upon any misrepresentations by the seller,
products which do not have the original components as specified in the product
engineering information,
•
products on which the serial number has been removed or defaced.
Shipping
Should any fault develop with a component of your Turbosound system, please return
the product, freight pre-paid, in its original packing carton, along with proof of purchase
such as the original bill of sale or receipted invoice, and a description of the suspected
fault to:
Turbosound Ltd. (Att: Customer Service), Star Road, Partridge Green, West Sussex RH13
8RY, England, or your local authorised Turbosound representative.
The product serial number must be quoted in all correspondence relating to the claim.
Insurance is recommended, as Turbosound or its representatives are not liable for loss or
damage in transit. Turbosound will pay for return freight costs should repairs be covered
under warranty.
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Incidental and consequential damages
Turbosound's liability is limited to the repair or replacement, at our option, of any
defective product, and shall not be liable for any incidental and consequential damages
including, without limitation, injury to persons or property or loss of use.
Limitation of implied warranties
All implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular
purpose, are limited in duration to the length of this warranty.
This warranty is in addition to, and in no way detracts from, your statutory rights as a
consumer. No other warranty is expressed or implied.
Please record your purchase information below for future reference:
Dealer Name ......................................................................................................................
Dealer Address ..................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................
Post / Zip Code ..................................................................................................................
Dealer telephone / fax .......................................................................................................
Invoice number .................................................................................................................
Date of purchase ...............................................................................................................
Unit serial number ............................................................................................................
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Notes
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