Owning Revel loudspeakers is a pleasurable experience for both the ears and eyes. Learning about the finer details of their design and construction will deepen your appreciation of their lasting value. 2
3 From the company that produces The World s Best Loudspeakers, Revel introduces the Concerta series, a family of loudspeakers that sets the standard for acoustical accuracy combined with impressive value. Borne of the technique and technology of Revel s Ultima and Performa loudspeakers, Concerta has been developed with the same stringent attention to musical honesty and manufacturing precision that are Revel hallmarks. All Concerta models are designed to work together harmoniously, whether for a two-channel music system or a multichannel music and home theater surround system. THE LISTENING LAB Revel makes the most exhaustive measurements of loudspeaker performance in the industry. We have developed measurements that are unique in their ability to meaningfully portray sound quality. However, Revel knows that the final authority for loudspeaker accuracy must be the listener s satisfaction. That is why we not only measure our loudspeakers carefully, but more importantly, we listen to them exhaustively in our unique and proprietary Multichannel Listening Lab (MLL). This remarkable listening environment is equipped with numerous pneumatically-positioned loudspeaker mounting platforms. Two loudspeakers, even of identical make and model, will sound different according to their particular placement within any given room. During the listening process, the loudspeaker samples being compared are quickly repositioned via moving platforms so that the placement within the room is identical for each, which allows the listener to more clearly evaluate each speaker s performance, and not be influenced by its position in the room. To further improve the auditory scoring accuracy, the loudspeakers being compared are visually obscured by an acoustically transparent but optically opaque scrim. No one in the room is ever aware of 3
which loudspeaker is playing, as the MLL computer controlled system randomly decides which speaker is selected. This double-blind listening and scoring system completely removes visual and brandrelated bias from the listening process, ensuring that the listeners only evaluate and score based upon what they actually hear, and nothing else. This guarantees that any given Revel loudspeaker is honestly compared to other Revel models and to competitors offerings, and is unique in the industry. UNIQUE DESIGN TECHNOLOGIES Revel engineers have access to the broad array of Harman International s loudspeaker design and development technologies. A Laser Interferometer measurement system is used to rapidly scan a driver s diaphragm even when it is operating at extremely high frequencies, providing a visual confirmation that the radiating surface remains pistonic and does not exhibit signs of breakup. The laser interferometer is also used during speaker cabinet development, to ensure that the cabinet remains acoustically inert and does not radiate unwanted acoustic energy. Our in-house stereo lithography system allows the engineers to create prototype mechanical parts directly from our computer aided design programs in a matter of hours, shaving weeks and months off the driver development process. We also have three separate anechoic chambers, whereas most speaker companies have none. EXCLUSIVE DRIVERS The Concerta loudspeaker drivers feature our exclusive Organic Ceramic Composite (OCC) cone and dome technologies, which offer the ideal combination of low mass and high rigidity. This ensures that the diaphragm remains pistonic over the entire oper- 4
ating frequency range, reducing distortion to vanishingly low levels. Concerta tweeters feature under-hung voice coils, Ferrofluid magnetic damping fluid and advanced neodymium motor systems, all contributing to optimized performance. These sophisticated tweeters are designed around our proprietary Constant Acoustic Impedance (CAI) waveguide technology, which provides ideal acoustic loading over the tweeter s operating frequency range along with increased efficiency and optimized dispersion. Concerta midrange and woofer drivers feature oversize magnetic assemblies, along with flat spiders to optimize linearity and die-cast alloy frames for maximum rigidity and cooling efficiency, and are equipped with real butyl rubber surrounds. The Concerta B12 subwoofer features a massive magnetic motor structure, an aluminum cone, and is equipped with a CAD-optimized high compliance butyl rubber surround spider for low distortion and long excursion. All drivers are magnetically shielded for placement near a video monitor. The internal dividing networks feature steep slope, high order filters and are equipped with extremely tight tolerance components. The F12, M12 and C12 all feature 3% tight tolerance crossover components, while the S12 surround speaker features 5% tight tolerance components. The use of such tight tolerance crossover elements ensures outstanding unit-to-unit sonic consistency and matching to the production reference standard. Concerta cabinets are constructed of acoustically dense MDF, and feature internal bracing for added rigidity and freedom from cabinet-induced colorations, and are available in your choice of cherry, maple, or black cabinet finishes. The following pages introduce you to each member of the Concerta loudspeaker family. 5
F12 Loudspeaker 6 F12 in cherry
driver featuring a die-cast frame and OCC cone to eliminate coloration from resonances. Whether the principal loudspeakers in a stereo music system, or the main left and right loudspeakers in a multichannel surround system, the Concerta F12 serves impeccably with Revel's signature timbral accuracy and astonishing dynamic range. The svelte cabinet occupies less than one square foot of floor space, yet the F12 produces a broad and expansive sound stage along with an explosive dynamic range with a four driver, three way design that incorporates Revel's Organic Ceramic Composite (OCC) diaphragm technologies. Low frequencies, all the way down to the lowest registers at an impressive 28 Hz (-10 db), are reproduced by a pair of die-cast frame OCC 8-inch cone woofers which are equipped with high current voice coils, distortion-reducing butyl rubber surrounds and flat high excursion spiders. The essential midrange frequencies are reproduced by a 5 1 4-inch For transparency and delicacy, the highest frequencies emanate from the 1- inch OCC dome tweeter that is housed within the CAI-optimized waveguide assembly, which provides both optimum dispersion as well as increased dynamic range. This carefully optimized dispersion precisely matches the 5 1 4-inch midrange, resulting in unprecedented seamlessness and coherency. The tweeter's neodymium magnetic assembly features an underhung voice coil which ensures linearity and low distortion. Internally, the F12's thick MDF cabinetry is substantially braced for additional rigidity, and the steep slope, high order crossover features the industry's tightest 3% tolerance components for outstanding consistency and matching with the design reference standard. The F12 is equipped with bi-amp capability. All of the F12 drivers are magnetically shielded to allow placement near a CRT video display. The F12 is available in your choice of cherry, maple or black cabinet finishes. Shown on this page: F12 drivers F12 rear panel F12 in black F12 crossover 7
M12 Monitor 8 M12 in maple on optional stands
The M12 monitor loudspeaker delivers outstanding timbral accuracy over a remarkably wide frequency range that belies its diminutive cabinet size. The 6 1 2-inch woofer features a rigid Organic Ceramic Composite (OCC) cone that is coupled to the die-cast frame via a high excursion butyl rubber surround, and includes a flat spider that further aids linearity and reduces distortion. Utilizing an oversized ceramic magnet, the M12 achieves impressive low frequency response all the way down to 41 Hz (-10 db). The M12's 1-inch OCC dome tweeter is mated with our proprietary Constant Acoustic Impedance" waveguide technology, which provides optimized dispersion over a wide listening area and reduces distortion and dynamic compression at elevated listening levels. This carefully optimized dispersion precisely matches the 6 1 2-inch woofer, resulting in unprecedented seamlessness and coherency. A powerful, yet compact neodymium motor system maximizes sensitivity, while Ferrofluid magnetic cooling fluid contributes to realistic musical dynamics. The steep slope, high order crossover features ultra-tight 3% precision tolerance components, assuring outstanding consistency and matching with the design reference standard. The M12 monitor loudspeaker is magnetically shielded, which allows placement near a CRT monitor in a home theater system. Constructed of thick MDF and internally braced for added rigidity, the M12 cabinet is equipped with threaded inserts on the bottom panel to accommodate screws for secure fastening to the optional pedestal stands. Gold plated binding posts can accept heavy gauge speaker cables and connectors. The M12 is available in your choice of cherry, maple or black cabinet finishes. Shown on this page: M12 drivers M12 rear panel M12 in black M12 crossover 9
C12 Center Channel 10 C12 in cherry on optional stand
Quite possibly the most important component of a multichannel surround sound speaker system, the center speaker provides most if not all of a movie's spoken dialog, as well as music and sound effects, and is equally critical with multichannel surround mixes as well. The Concerta C12 center loudspeaker is designed to ensure that everything in the critical center channel is audible and consistent over a wide listening area, with exceptional dynamic range with no audible compression during high volume passages. Equipped with a quartet of sophisticated drivers with Organic Ceramic Composite (OCC) diaphragms, the C12 features two 6 1 2-inch die-cast frame woofers with high power handling and extended low frequency response all the way down to a remarkable 50 Hz (-10 db). The critical midrange frequencies are handled by a die-cast frame 4- inch driver that is housed within its own sub-enclosure, while the high frequencies are effortlessly reproduced by a 1-inch OCC dome tweeter with a neodymium magnet that is housed within the Constant Acoustic Impedance flared waveguide assembly for optimum dispersion, efficiency and dynamic range. All drivers are magnetically shielded for compatibility with CRT displays that can be affected by close-proximity magnetic fields. The steep slope, high order crossover is equipped with ultra-tight 3% tolerance components to ensure outstanding consistency and smooth tonal balance over the entire frequency range. The C12 cabinet is constructed of thick MDF with substantial internal bracing for added rigidity, and is equipped with a rear-mounted adjustable tilt system that is ideal for above-the-monitor placement. An optional stand is available for floor placement, which positions the C12 at the desired height with a slight upward tilt for optimum coverage over the listening area. The C12 is available in your choice of cherry, maple or black cabinet finishes. Shown on this page: C12 drivers C12 rear panel C12 in black C12 crossover 11
S12 Surround Speaker 12 S12 in black
A truly multi-faceted performer, the Concerta S12 surround loudspeaker can be configured for different dispersion characteristics according to the type of surround effect desired as well as for different placements within the listening room. Featuring a pair of woofers with Organic Ceramic Composite (OCC) cones as well as a pair of OCC dome tweeters with neodymium magnets along with our proprietary Constant Acoustic Impedance technology, the S12 offers unparalleled surround sound versatility. Three dispersion modes are userselectable via the front panel switch. Choose Dipole mode for side-of-listeningarea placement, where the two driver pair sets operate in reverse phase mode, which minimizes localization while providing broad surround sound dispersion - ideal for movie surround soundtracks. Bipole mode provides the best combination of dispersion and improved localization for pinpoint surround sound imaging with SACD, DVD-Audio, DTS and Dolby Digital multichannel music surround sources. A third Monopole mode allows the deactivation of one of the two driver sets, when spot-on imaging is desired, such as for discrete multichannel pop music. For 7.1 systems such as THX Ultra2, Dolby Digital EX and DTS ES, the S12 also features dual separated crossovers and two pairs of speaker input terminals. By removing the shorting straps on the binding post pairs, one S12 can function as two distinct surround loudspeakers in a single enclosure. This unique capability allows the use of one S12 to function either as both left and right rear surrounds, or as both a side and rear surround speaker. The Concerta S12 can therefore provide a unique solution for 7.1-channel systems in tight spaces. The S12 is available in your choice of black or white finishes, with matching grilles. Shown on this page: S12 drivers S12 rear panel S12 front panel switch S12 crossovers 13
14 B12 in cherry B12 Subwoofer
The Concerta B12 subwoofer delivers accurate and authoritative deep bass from a surprisingly compact enclosure that features a die-cast frame high excursion 10-inch driver with a massive magnetic motor structure mated with a powerful 650 watt amplifier. The B12's woofer is equipped with Revel's Symmetrical Field Gap technology that more precisely focuses the magnetic energy between the three-inch high current voice coil and the surrounding pole pieces, minimizing distortion, even at high output levels. The CAD-optimized butyl rubber surround, flat spider and aluminum cone can withstand even the most punishing high-level low frequency content. Any subwoofer's performance will be, to at least some degree, affected by the room acoustics that it is placed in, and where in the room it is sited. Certain low bass frequencies may be adversely affected by standing waves caused by room modes, where some frequencies are exaggerated (peaks), while others might be diminished (dips). To tame the subwoofer's response in the listening room, the B12 features a parametric Room EQ function, with controls for frequency, level and bandwidth to tune out room-induced response anomalies. In addition, the B12 also features variable crossover frequency and level controls (which can be bypassed), and a phase switch to ensure a seamless blend between the subwoofer and the main loudspeakers. Together, these controls ensure optimum performance in virtually any system configuration, whether a stereo music system or a multichannel surround sound home theater system. The B12's cabinet is constructed of thick-walled MDF with internal bracing for rigidity, and is equipped with rubber feet for use on hardwood or tile floors, and comes with supplied spikes that can be installed for use on a carpeted floor. The B12 is available in your choice of cherry, maple or black cabinet finishes. Shown on this page: B12 woofer B12 rear panel B12 woofer close up B12 in maple 15
All Concerta loudspeakers, except the S12, are available in cherry, maple, or black cabinet finishes as shown below.* The S12 is available in black or white finish with matching grilles (not shown). SPECIFICATIONS Sensitivity Sensitivity provides an indication of how much amplifier power is required for the loudspeaker to play at satisfactory volume levels. Conservatively rated specifications indicate good sensitivity and denote that Revel Concerta loudspeakers do not require huge amplifiers to achieve realistic levels in all but the largest rooms. 4 pi anechoic represents testing done in a true anechoic (echo or reflection-free) listening environment, while 2 pi anechoic indicates the use of a chamber with one solid surface (suitable for on-wall loudspeakers). Recommended amplifier power range While it is impossible to know the characteristics of a listener s room acoustics or their listening habits, the recommended amplifier power range provides rough guidance for suitable amplifiers. All power ratings are at 8 Ohms, and with unclipped (undistorted) music or film sound sources. Impedance Impedance indicates whether the speaker system presents a hard or easy load on the amplifier. Revel Concerta loudspeakers are designed to be "easy" loads for most any modern amplifiers. All Concerta loudspeakers are suitable for use with even modest amplifiers or receivers, including those that specify the use of "8 Ohm loudspeakers." Filters (crossover) Steep filter slopes ensure good acoustical behavior in the crossover regions, with a minimum of acoustical interference, along with low distortion and wide dynamic range. Revel filters feature specially selected components. The F12 includes a provision for bi-amping or bi-wiring. The S12 features dual separated crossovers allowing it function as a dipole, bipole, or monopole loudspeaker. Each S12 can also function as two distinct surround loudspeakers in a single enclosure. Frequency responses In-room response is a breakthrough measurement that, in a single curve, closely correlates to sound quality and has been a goal of loudspeaker engineers for years. Research, and simple observation, reveals that ubiquitous on-axis response curves often cannot distinguish between two loudspeakers with radically different sound quality. This specification for Revel loudspeakers is even more powerful when it is taken in context with the other measurements presented here. Studies have shown that the -10 db low frequency extension specification is the one that best correlates to controlled listening tests. At low frequencies, most loudspeaker/room combinations exhibit significant room gain, which is an increasing rise in level as frequencies decrease. In addition, the -10 db specification reflects the steepness (i.e., order) of the low-frequency roll-off, which is not significantly indicated in -3 db specifications. Bandwidth indicates the range of frequencies reproduced by the loudspeaker. The frequency at which the amplitude is down 6 db relative to the average level is specified at both low and high frequencies. 16 *Cabinet finish representation is subject to the limitations of the full-color printing process. Actual cabinet finishes may vary.
Specifications F12 Loudspeaker Sensitivity: 90.5 db SPL, with 2.83 V @ 1 m (4 pi anechoic) Impedance: 6 Ω (nominal) Filter network: 3-way, high-order @ 575 Hz and 3.0 khz Frequency responses: In-room response ±1.0 db from 58 Hz to 18 khz Low frequency extension -10 db @ 28 Hz Bandwidth 6 db @ 40 Hz and 45 khz Recommended amplifier power: 20-200 Watts Dimensions: height: 42 3 8" (107.4 cm) width: 9 3 4" (24.8 cm) depth: 14 3 8" (36.3 cm) (includes grille and feet without spikes) (Spikes add 1 1 2 (3.81 cm) to height) Weight: 62.6 lb (28.4 kg) net (without packing) Specifications are subject to change without notice. M12 Monitor Sensitivity: 87 db SPL, with 2.83 V @ 1 m (4 pi anechoic) Impedance: 8 Ω (nominal) Filter network: 2-way, high-order @ 2.5 khz Frequency responses: In-room response ±1.5 db from 65 Hz to 15 khz Low frequency extension -10 db @ 41 Hz Bandwidth 6 db @ 48 Hz and 45 khz Recommended amplifier power: 20-150 Watts Dimensions: height: 13 25 32" (35 cm) 39 1 4" (99.6 cm) (with optional stand) width: 8 7 8" (22.5 cm) depth: 11 7 8" (29.5 cm) (includes grille) Weight: 19.2 lb (8.7 kg) net (without packing) Specifications are subject to change without notice. S12 shown on optional stand. 17
C12 Center Channel Sensitivity: 90 db SPL, with 2.83 V @ 1 m (4 pi anechoic) Impedance: 6 Ω (nominal) Filter network: 3-way, high-order @ 500 Hz and 2.8 khz Frequency responses: In-room response ±1.5 db from 85 Hz to 15 khz Low frequency extension -10 db @ 50 Hz Bandwidth -6 db @ 60 Hz and 45 khz Recommended amplifier power: 20-175 Watts Dimensions: height: 9 1 8" (23.2 cm) 21 3 8" (53.7 cm) (with optional stand) width: 20 7 8" (53 cm) depth: 10 3 8" (25.8 cm) (includes grille) Weight: 32 lb (14.5 kg) net (without packing) Specifications are subject to change without notice. C12 shown on optional stand. S12 Surround Speaker Sensitivity: 87 db SPL, with 2.83 V @ 1 m (2 pi anechoic) Impedance: 8 Ω (nominal) Filter network: 2-way, high-order @ 2.5 khz Frequency response: In-room response ±3 db from 72 Hz to 20 khz Low frequency extension -10 db @ 59 Hz Bandwidth -6 db @ 64 Hz and 45 khz Recommended power amplifier: 20-120 Watts Crossover frequency: 2.2 khz Dimensions: height: 11 3 4" (29.9 cm) width: 13 1 4" (33.7 cm) depth: 7.0" (17.8 cm) (includes grille) Weight: 12.3 lb (5.57 kg) net (without packing) Specifications are subject to change without notice. 18
Specifications B12 Subwoofer Frequency response: Low frequency extension: ±0.5 db in the pass band 6 db @ 25 Hz 10 db @ 23 Hz Maximum amplifier output: 650 watts (20 Hz-150 Hz with no more than 0.1% THD) Low pass crossover frequencies: 50 Hz-175 Hz, 24 db/octave, continuously variable Dimensions: height: 14 1 8" (35.8 cm) width: 13 1 8" (33.3 cm) depth: 16.0" (40.5 cm) (includes grille and feet without spikes) (Spikes add 1 1 2 (3.81 cm) to height) Weight: 64 lb (29.0 kg) net (without packing) Specifications are subject to change without notice. The Revel experience is special. Beyond the enjoyment of one of the world s most highly prized loudspeakers, it is about the appreciation of superb precision and high technology. The Concerta series offers the performance and beauty of the world s finest loudspeakers. 19
Revel is a registered trademark of Harman International Industries, Incorporated. Ferrofluid is a registered trademark of Ferrotec (USA) corporaton. Dolby, Dolby Digital, and Dolby Digital EX are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories. Ultra2 and THX are registered trademarks of THX Ltd. DTS and DTS ES are registered trademarks of Digital Theater Systems, Inc. Other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated. 3 Oak Park Drive Bedford, MA 01730-1413 USA Revel is not responsible for typographic errors. Revel loudspeakers are designed in Northridge, California, USA Tel: 781.280.0300 Fax: 781.280.0490 www.revelspeakers.com 2005 Harman Specialty Group Part Number: 072-16469 Rev.1