Turbosound Portable Speaker TCS COMPACT SERIES User Manual

TCS COMPACT SERIES  
USER MANUAL  
Turbosound Ltd.  
Star Road, Partridge Green  
West Sussex RH13 8RY England  
Tel: +44 (0)1403 711447  
Fax: +44 (0)1403 710155  
Issue 1.0 January 2006  
Copyright © 2006 Turbosound Ltd.  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
Introduction  
Congratulations, you have just purchased a professional loudspeaker product from the  
TCS Compact 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, integral rigging and flying hardware options, 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 together with positioning and mounting instructions.  
Thanks  
Thank you for choosing a TURBOSOUND TCS Compact 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.  
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TCS Compact series  
Product Range Summary  
General Features  
TCS Compact series 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.  
Cabinets are constructed from high quality birch plywood; rebated, glued and  
screwed together for maximum strength and rigidity.  
The enclosures are supplied with a durable black or white semi-matt textured  
paint finish as standard. Optional finishes include TurboBlue™ and a whole  
spectrum of other custom colours. Cabinets can also be supplied in raw birch  
plywood for painting, varnishing or staining on site to match venue décor  
requirements.  
Powder-coated perforated steel mesh grilles, backed with reticulated foam (or  
white acoustically transparent cloth on white cabinets) protect the drive units  
from damage and provide an unobtrusive and aesthetically pleasing apperance.  
Multiple rigging points enable a wide variety of installation methods: with  
standard eyebolts, OmniMount™ hardware and specifically created Turbosound  
wall and ceiling brackets. The enclosures are fitted with internal M10 threaded  
rigging points on the top, sides, bottom and rear, that allow single cabinets to be  
suspended and angled in fixed installations.  
High quality components are used throughout. Cast-frame low frequency drivers  
give the combined benefits of high strength and low weight.  
Speakon NL4MP connectors and 4-way terminal / barrier strips are provided on  
recessed rear panels for input and loop-through / parallel connections to  
additional TCS Compact series speakers.  
Weather-resistant options, to IP54 rating (protected against dust and sprays of  
water from all directions), enable the TCS Compact series to be used outdoors or  
in humid conditions.  
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General Features for Two Way Enclosures  
High-grade speaker components are matched with an internal passive crossover  
to ensure a seamless transition between the HF and LF drivers.  
The crossover network incorporates a two-stage thermal overload protection  
system which prevents damage to the high frequency driver by reacting  
instantly to large transient peaks while still allowing wide dynamic range to be  
maintained. The protection system is transparent at normal operating levels and,  
as the level increases, the signal is gradually and almost imperceptibly  
compressed once the critical threshold has been reached.  
High frequency drivers have been selected for consistent and reliable  
performance.  
High power line transformer versions are optionally available for use in 70v or  
100v line distributed systems.  
The rigging points on the bottom of the cabinets enable them to be hung upside  
down in order to position the HF driver closer to the audience.  
TCS Compact Series full-range enclosures are designed to give good pattern  
control down to crossover frequency, and are fully supported with EASE polar  
data (available to download from the Turbosound website at  
specifying sound systems in a given venue.  
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Model Information  
TCS-081C  
The TCS-081C is a compact passive two-way loudspeaker designed for use in a wide  
range of fixed installations. It consists of an 8” reflex-loaded low frequency driver and a  
1” high frequency compression driver on a 100°H x 60°V Converging Elliptical  
Waveguide™ in an optimally tuned trapezoidal enclosure constructed from 12mm (1/2”)  
birch plywood.  
The cabinet is fitted with M8 internal rigging points on the rear panel which enable it to  
be permanently installed using the Turbosound WB-20 wall bracket, or CB-55 ceiling  
bracket. Four M6 internal rigging points are also provided for use with OmniMount™  
series 30 brackets.  
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TCS-101C  
The TCS-101C is a compact passive two-way loudspeaker enclosure. It consists of a 10”  
reflex-loaded low frequency driver and a 1” high frequency compression driver on a  
rotatable 100°H x 60°V Converging Elliptical Waveguide™ in an optimally tuned  
trapezoidal cabinet constructed from 15mm (5/8”) birch plywood.  
M8 rigging points are provided on the back panel to enable fixed installation use with  
optional Turbosound WB-20 wall and CB-55 ceiling brackets. M6 rigging points are  
provided for use with OmniMount™ 60 series brackets. The SB-101 swivel bracket can be  
used to mount the cabinet horizontally to walls or ceilings with a wide range of  
downward angle.  
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TCS-121C  
The TCS-121C is a compact passive two-way loudspeaker enclosure designed for use in a  
wide variety of live sound and fixed installation applications that require professional  
sound quality. It consists of a 12” reflex-loaded low frequency driver and, a 1” high  
frequency compression driver on a 70°H x 40°V dispersion HF horn, in an optimally tuned  
trapezoidal cabinet constructed from 15mm (5/8”) birch plywood.  
M8 rigging points are provided on the back panel to enable fixed installation use with  
optional Turbosound WB-20 wall brackets or CB-55 ceiling brackets. M6 rigging points are  
also provided for use with OmniMount™ 60 series brackets.  
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TCS-151C  
The TCS-151C is a passive two-way loudspeaker enclosure designed for use in a wide  
variety of fixed installation applications that require professional sound quality. It  
consists of a 15” reflex-loaded low frequency driver and a 1” high frequency compression  
driver on a 70°H x 40°V dispersion HF horn in an optimally tuned trapezoidal cabinet  
constructed from 15mm (5/8”) birch plywood.  
M8 rigging points are provided on the back panel to enable fixed installation use with the  
Turbosound WB-55 wall bracket or CB-55 ceiling bracket and OmniMount™ 120 series  
brackets.  
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TCS-115C  
The TCS-115C is a front-loaded, high efficiency low frequency loudspeaker designed to  
give bass and sub-bass reinforcement to the TCS Compact series two way models. It is  
envisaged to form part of a two-way active system in conjunction with a Turbosound  
LMS series loudspeaker management system.  
It consists of a single 15” reflex-loaded low frequency driver in an optimally tuned  
enclosure. The cabinet is constructed from 18mm (3/4”) birch plywood. Recommended  
amplifier power is 600 watts at a nominal impedance of 8 ohms.  
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TCS-118C  
The TCS-118C is a front-loaded, high efficiency low frequency loudspeaker designed to  
give bass and sub-bass reinforcement to the TCS Compact series two way models. It is  
envisaged to form part of a two-way active system in conjunction with a Turbosound  
LMS series loudspeaker management system.  
It consists of a single 18” reflex-loaded low frequency driver in an optimally tuned  
enclosure. The cabinet is constructed from 18mm (3/4”) birch plywood. Recommended  
amplifier power is 600 watts at a nominal impedance of 8 ohms.  
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TCS Compact series  
TCS-215C  
The TCS-215C is a front-loaded, high efficiency low frequency loudspeaker designed to  
give bass and sub-bass reinforcement to the TCS Compact series two way models. It is  
envisaged to form part of a two-way active system in conjunction with a Turbosound  
LMS series loudspeaker management system.  
It consists of two 15” reflex-loaded low frequency drivers in an optimally tuned  
rectangular cabinet constructed from 18mm (3/4”) birch plywood. Recommended  
amplifier power is 1200 watts at a nominal impedance of 4 ohms.  
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TCS-218C  
The TCS-218C is a front-loaded, high efficiency low frequency loudspeaker designed to  
give bass and sub-bass reinforcement to the TCS Compact series two way models. It is  
envisaged to form part of a two-way active system in conjunction with a Turbosound  
LMS series loudspeaker management system.  
It consists of two 18” reflex-loaded low frequency drivers in an optimally tuned enclosure  
constructed from 18mm (3/4”) birch plywood. Recommended amplifier power is 1200  
watts at a nominal impedance of 4 Ohms.  
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System Considerations  
Choosing the best location  
When using any loudspeaker system certain room parameters will affect the resultant  
sound quality and coverage. For example, any boundary like a wall or floor will lift certain  
frequencies. If you are placing speakers in a corner, then a lift at the bass end is to be  
expected and it may sound rather ‘boomy’. This can be compensated for by moving the  
speaker or cutting low frequencies with an equaliser.  
TCS Compact series speakers are designed to be flown in free space or mounted on  
specialist wall and ceiling brackets. When speakers are flown in free space then  
boundary effects are minimised. The result is a smooth frequency response without any  
boost at odd frequencies, but the bass end may appear subjectively light. In this case  
increase the sub-bass level to bring the low end up or add sub bass enclosures as  
necessary.  
Dispersion  
TCS COMPACT series enclosures are designed to provide respectably wide horizontal  
coverage; the TCS-151C and TCS-121C offer 70° and the TCS-101C and TCS-081C 100° .  
This allows the majority of live sound applications to be covered with single enclosures  
placed individually to take advantage of this performance feature, for example either side  
of a stage in a pub, or small club environment, as shown below.  
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Calculating the sound pressure level at a known distance from the PA  
Sound intensity reduces rapidly as the distance from the source increases according to  
the inverse square law which, predicts that a doubling of distance will result in a  
reduction of ¼ the original, equal to a drop of 6dB, providing there are no reflections or  
reverberation. For every 3dB increase of speaker output you need a doubling of input  
power.  
For example, in an open space where the front seats are 6 meters (20 ft) from the sound  
source and the back seats are 60m (200 ft) from the sound source, you would expect the  
sound pressure to drop by a factor of 100 (= 20 decibels) between the front seats and the  
back seats.  
In a ‘real world’ enclosed auditorium, this reduction is partially mitigated by the effects of  
reverberation in the distant field and, in the near field, because the speaker looks more  
like a wall source than a point source. Therefore the sound field in a room only behaves  
according to the inverse square law in a relatively narrow distanced range.  
It should be possible to make considered decisions regarding the particular models of  
speakers that are required based on their sensitivity and SPL (sound pressure level) in  
order to achieve the desired coverage and level.  
Equalisation  
TCS COMPACT series enclosures are designed to provide smooth and even frequency  
response. They do not need excessive amounts of external equalisation to overcome the  
sonic deficiencies often found in many lesser designs.  
In order to compensate for room acoustics, TCS Compact series enclosures require only  
minimal equalisation. As in any system, over-equalisation introduces phase shifts,  
distortion and a reduction in headroom, usually causing more problems than it cures. It is  
good practice to use as little equalization as possible, aiming to ‘cut’ frequencies rather  
than adding large amounts of ‘boost’.  
Most rooms will have resonances that will be excited at particular frequencies needing  
some cut to help tame the sound. These problems are most pronounced at the lower  
frequencies where loudspeakers generally exhibit very little directional control. Under  
most circumstances a 1/3 or 1/2 octave graphic equaliser will generally be adequate, with  
the fader settings applied smoothly and sparingly for the required room compensation.  
If you find that the system needs a lot of boost at lower frequencies you probably need  
additional sub-bass units.  
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TCS Compact series  
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.  
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.  
Turbosound recommends the T-series amplifiers for use with the TCS Compact series  
system.  
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System Configurations  
TCS Compact Series 2-way enclosures are passive loudspeaker systems. This means that  
they require 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 in each enclosure. If subwoofers are used in a bi-  
amplified system in conjunction with TCS Compact Series 2-way enclosures, additional  
amplifier channels and external electronic crossovers will be required. The Turbosound  
LMS-D24/26 digital management systems are recommended for this purpose.  
Many different system configurations of TCS Compact Series loudspeaker enclosures are  
possible to suit various installation requirements, ranging from cafes, bars and  
restaurants to theme parks, theatres and houses of worship. Listed below are a few  
common examples.  
System1 – Basic stereo set up  
FROM MIXER  
L
R
L
EQ  
R
POWER AMPLIFIER  
A single amplifier supporting two TCS Compact series 2-way speakers creates a standard  
stereo system. A further pair of TCS mid/tops could be connected using the loop-through  
connections, although this will result in a corresponding drop in impedance. With TCS  
Compact 2-way speakers with a nominal impedance of 8 ohms this would make a  
combined 4 ohm load that should be suitable for any good quality power amplifier (see  
amplifier considerations for more information).  
NB: A stereo configuration is shown but this system could be run in mono.  
NB: The EQ block is shown for tuning the room.  
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System 2 – Stereo with bass units and Active Crossover  
MID/HI  
LEFT  
BASS  
FROM MIXER  
L
R
EQ  
POWER AMPLIFIERS  
LMS-D24  
MID/HI  
RIGHT  
BASS  
In this case a crossover is needed to separate the bass and mid / high frequencies. The  
Turbosound LMS series is recommended as the units are preconfigured with presets to  
match the TCS Compact series requirements.  
This system can be scaled up with the addition of further amplifiers and processors. If  
using the LMS-D26 processor there will be two extra channels available for adding say  
another pair of mid/top cabinets through an extra stereo power amplifier.  
If using TCS-218C or TCS-215C dual-driver bass bins then note that the impedance for  
each of these is already 4 ohms and only some very powerful amplifiers are capable of  
driving loads at 2 ohms or below. Consider using extra amplifiers for this purpose rather  
than the loop through connections. The TCS-115C or TCS-118C bass speakers are 8 ohms  
so it is possible to run two cabinets from one amplifier, providing the amplifier is  
powerful enough, although extra amplifiers will still provide the best performance.  
It is recommended to use a bass cabinet and a mid/top with each stereo amplifier as this  
helps distribute the load across the power supplies better.  
NB: The EQ shown is for tuning the system to the room / venue.  
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Crossovers and Processors  
In order to correctly set up your sound system a selection of audio processing devices are  
necessary to divide the frequencies between the speakers, apply equalisation and limit  
the dynamic headroom. These duties can be performed by proprietary units such as  
standalone crossovers, graphic equalisers and limiters, and a TCS Compact series  
installation can be built in this way by paying careful attention to details such as  
appropriate crossover settings. This information is provided in the Technical  
Specifications for each TCS Compact series speaker.  
Active and Passive systems  
Passive crossover networks split the frequency range between drivers after the amplifier.  
Although this an economical method for many general purpose applications, problems  
associated with this approach include the loss of energy (watts) as heat in the  
components of the crossover. Also, it is not possible to design steep roll-offs, as a broad  
range of frequencies has to be covered by both components. This causes smearing  
between the drivers and potentially raises the distortion from the individual components.  
If the headroom limit of the amplifier is reached the HF component can be heard  
‘pumping’, as large amounts of energy are consumed by the low frequency transients.  
In an active system the crossover is placed before the amplifiers to gain particular  
advantages. More amplifier channels are needed to deal with the split of frequency bands  
but this separation also helps to deliver a cleaner, more controlled sound from the  
speakers. The HF cannot be modulated by power drains needed by the LF speakers.  
Loudspeaker Management Systems  
The concept of a Loudspeaker Management System is to provide all the processing  
electronics you might need in one box. This typically includes crossover functions,  
equalisation, limiters, delays and preset memories, that can store different set ups for  
various applications. A loudspeaker management system offers potentially better audio  
quality, more precise control and protection against unwanted changes in settings.  
Digital processing enables steeper roll-offs through the crossover areas to be designed,  
allowing more output from the speakers, as they are individually handling more  
appropriate bandwidths. Also, the addition of delay to the LF signal to match the arrival  
of the HF can help to make the image more intelligible. Therefore, it is much easier, and  
more efficient, to manipulate audio digitally in low voltage electronics than in the passive  
crossover networks found inside speakers.  
The TCS Compact series has a range of sub bass units (TCS-115C, TCS-118C, TCS-215C,  
TCS-218C) that are designed to be used actively with the mid/top cabinets (TCS-081C,  
TCS-101C, TCS-121C, TCS-151C). The Turbosound LMS-D24 and LMS-D26 loudspeaker  
management systems contain custom presets for the TCS Compact series along with a  
world-class audio specification.  
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TCS Compact series  
Turbosound LMS series loudspeaker management systems  
The Turbosound LMS-D24 and LMS-D26 series are powerful DSP-based audio processing  
units designed for use with Turbosound loudspeaker systems and associated bass  
enclosures. The functions of multiple conventional products are combined in a compact  
1U high 19” rack unit. They offer EQ, both for the room and the drivers, delay to align the  
wave front, and limiters that can be set for each individual component to ensure against  
damage and to protect the long term reliability of your speakers.  
The LMS-D26 has two inputs and six outputs and the LMS-D24 has four outputs. The  
units are configured to provide specific equalisation and crossover points aimed at  
optimizing the performance of these Turbosound loudspeaker systems. In addition,  
limiters, delays, eq, gain, polarity, and crossover filter controls are accessible to the user  
in order to match specific operation environments. The LMS series crossovers are  
designed for quick setup and adjustment via easy-to use front panel controls and, are  
ideally suited to both live sound and fixed installation.  
Features  
Minimal signal path design, providing exceptional audio quality with carefully  
optimised processing and high performance converters for a >111dB dynamic  
range.  
Sonically superb ADC / DAC combination; a carefully matched pairing of the best  
devices from Burr Brown and Wolfson. Analogue Devices SHARC chip for DSP  
Extended bandwidth; 96 kHz sampling frequency provides for a nominally flat  
response to 40 kHz with minimal filtering.  
Audio-grade capacitors used in the analogue signal path for true audiophile  
performance and superior accuracy.  
Input delays of up to 400ms and output delays of up to 80ms can be set up on  
each output (mono) or pair of outputs (stereo) with fine resolution of 21µs steps  
to ensure perfect driver alignment.  
LF shelving filters to allow adjustment of the response in order to match  
variations of the acoustic conditions.  
Switching power supply that automatically adjusts to mains input voltages from  
85 volts to 240 volts, allowing it be used anywhere in the world without  
inconvenient mains transformer adjustment.  
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LMS-D24/6 Quick Reference Set Up  
(LMS-D26 shown)  
The LMS-D24 and LMS-D26 are designed for quick setup and adjustment via an easy-to-  
use menu structure accessed by front panel buttons and 3 rotary encoders. A high  
resolution backlit LCD display provides the user interface to the menu options and  
parameters being adjusted.  
Input Signal Indicators - three pairs of LED’s indicate signal present, +4dBu and input clip  
for both channels. The signal present LED’s operate at approximately –40dBu, giving a  
useful indication of even relatively low input signal levels. The +4dBu LED’s are intended  
to show nominal operating level and can also be useful for setting system gain structure.  
Clip LEDs warn the user of input overload and operate at +19dBu.  
Starting up  
The unit will energise as soon as power is applied to the IEC inlet; there is no power  
switch. During the start up process the firmware application model number and version  
numbers are displayed and the outputs are muted until the unit has completed its internal  
checks. Once the start-up routines are complete and the unit is ready to pass audio, the  
DSP signal path will be restored to the current settings when it was last powered down  
and the audio signal is gradually ramped up to its correct level. At this stage the display  
shows the default screen with the memory location and name of the current Preset on the  
lower line of text.  
About Presets  
The unit has 45 memory locations and there is a library of around thirty ‘Factory’ Presets  
to suit a range of Turbosound enclosures. Factory Presets are locked so they cannot be  
over-written although edited versions can be stored in the free preset locations. Details of  
all the Factory Presets can be found in Appendix A in the LMSD2x pdf in the downloads  
Factory Presets contain some parameters that are fixed and hidden from view; typically  
crossover frequencies, output delay and some EQs; those settings that are a function of  
the loudspeaker cabinet design and should not require adjustment for different  
applications. The number and type of hidden parameters is dependant on the Factory  
Preset. The remainder of the DSP parameters are available for user manipulation.  
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Preset Recall  
To select a Preset, press the Recall Button so the indicator above it illuminates.  
Turn the left of the three parameter knobs (a) until the required Preset number is  
shown on the display.  
NB: Factory presets are indicated by a box symbol appearing after the Preset  
number.  
Press the Recall Button again to activate the Preset.  
NB: Pressing any other button will cancel the operation.  
This process is deliberately in three stages in order to guard against accidental recall of  
incorrect Presets.  
Creating a user defined crossover  
In addition to the Factory Presets the unit has two further ‘Base Presets’ for mono and  
stereo usage. These Base Presets are stored in locations 1 and 2 respectively, they can be  
used to develop settings for any loudspeaker combination and are recalled in the same  
way as the Factory Presets described above. These Presets are also locked but the user  
can name and store their own edited versions in any free preset location.  
Store button  
To store a preset in a location, press the store button and use the encoders to select the  
memory location and name the preset. Pressing the store button again completes the  
task. Pressing any button other than store during the process cancels the procedure.  
The store button allows the user to name a preset and choose which memory location it  
will be held in. Pressing store button again completes the process.  
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LMS-D24/D26 Audio Connections  
Audio Input connectors  
These are fully balanced and are wired pin 1 ground, pin 2 hot and pin 3 cold. The two  
inputs have pin 1 connected directly to the chassis and feed the signal processing chains.  
If an unbalanced source is used, a connection should be made between the pin 3 ‘cold’  
signal and the ground connection of the unbalanced source.  
Audio Output connectors  
The processed outputs are impedance balanced, and are wired pin 1 ground, pin 2 hot  
and pin 3 cold. An unbalanced input may be driven by connecting pin 3 ‘cold’ signal to  
the ground connection of the unbalanced destination input. Note that output pins 1 are  
ground lifted at audio frequencies but connected to ground at RF for good EMC  
performance. The intention being that the amplifiers the processor is driving should be  
responsible for the grounding of their input cable shields.  
Presets and Secure mode  
A momentary button is fitted on the rear panel, between the output XLRs and the RS232  
port. When activated, this will disable all the front panel controls so they cannot affect the  
signal path, making the unit secure against tampering. When in secure mode, the  
indicators still operate normally however; Presets cannot be stored or recalled. If the unit  
is not responding then check that Secure Mode is not active.  
Note that the communications port is still active in secure mode.  
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Speaker Connections  
TCS Compact Series enclosures are provided with a recessed connector panel housing a  
single Neutrik Speakon NL4MP connector wired in parallel with a 4-way terminal strip.  
Either can be used for the input, the other being available as an output for looping to  
further TCS enclosures.  
2+  
1-  
Speakon connections  
(Pins 2+ and 2- not connected)  
2- 1+  
Negative (-ve)  
Positive (+ve)  
Positive (+ve)  
Negative (-ve)  
Low Impedance  
+
-
+
-
LOOP IN  
LOOP OUT  
Note that looping out to additional enclosures has the effect of reducing the load  
impedance on the amplifier. For example, two 8 ohm cabinets in parallel give a combined  
total impedance of 4 ohms. Never connect loudspeakers whose total combined  
impedance is lower than the amplifier’s recommended minimum load impedance. Do not  
use the loop-out connection to connect other types of loudspeaker, especially when their  
impedance is not known, as permanent damage could result!  
The cable end Speakon NL4 connector should be wired as follows:  
Positive output  
Negative output  
Pin 1 +  
Pin 1 -  
Please take care if XLRs, binding posts, or other dual connector systems, are used at the  
amplifier end of the loudspeaker cables (jack plugs/sockets should not be used) where  
there is a possibility of the cables being reversed. It is highly recommended that Neutrik  
Speakon or other heavy duty non-reversible connectors are used.  
tcs compact manual  
page 24  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
70/100V Line Distributed Systems  
Line transformer models are supplied with step-down transformers with voltage taps at  
P, P/2, and P/4 watts, where P is the maximum power rating of the line transformer, and  
these are accessed via the 4-way barrier strip only.  
70v/100v Line  
tcs compact manual  
page 25  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
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  
(m)  
Cable Resistance  
(W)  
Voltage Drop (%) 8 ohms  
Sensitivity Loss (dB)  
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)  
tcs compact manual  
page 26  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
Flying & Lifting / Rigging  
A versatile set of rigging parts has been designed for TCS Compact Series enclosures in  
order to give the installer a cost effective approach to flying and mounting, ranging from  
a single enclosure up to multi-box arrays and clusters.  
All riggable products are fitted with metric internal fixings. It is expected that external  
parts such as eye nuts, flying bridles, scaffold clamps, safety chains etc. will be obtained  
locally from the usual suppliers and used with the parts available from Turbosound.  
Any installation, whether temporary or permanent, must be securely attached to the  
structure of the building using chain, steel wires or web straps which are certified and  
load rated for the purpose. The combined weight of the sound system, its cables and the  
rigging system must be safely carried by the points at which attachment is made to the  
building or structure. Great care must be taken in selecting the attachment points and  
methods, being absolutely sure of the load carrying capacity of points chosen.  
IMPORTANT NOTE: The rigging of loudspeaker systems is an extremely serious matter  
with potentially lethal consequences should anything go wrong. It is of vital importance  
that you, or other people rigging the system, are suitably qualified to do so and have a  
full understanding of all the factors involved with safety as a number one priority.  
Turbosound accept no responsibility for any accident, damage or failure of any rigged  
system. This rigging information is specifically related to the requirements of the TCS  
Compact Series products only. For more detailed information on the whole topic of  
rigging various handbooks are available. If you are in any doubt contact your  
Turbosound dealer who will be able to refer you to an experienced rigging company.  
All the sets and parts have been type tested and will be covered by ‘certificates of  
conformity’ as to their ability to safely meet their design specification. These certificates  
are available on request.  
tcs compact manual  
page 27  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
Flying Single Enclosures  
Single enclosures may be flown using a variety of different methods:  
WB-55  
wall bracket  
CB-55 ceiling bracket  
SB-101 swivel bracket  
(TCS-101C only)  
M10 eyebolts  
All TCS COMPACT series cabinets, including low frequency enclosures, can be rigged in  
permanent installations using optional M10 shoulder eyebolts (available from  
Turbosound or third party suppliers). These can be attached to the rigging points  
provided on the top and back of the cabinet. The rigging point at the rear of the cabinet is  
used to alter the downward angle of the enclosure.  
As supplied, these rigging points are fitted externally with M10 countersunk slot-head  
screws. To facilitate rigging of the enclosure simply remove these M10 screws and  
replace them with M10 x 18mm shoulder eyebolts using a suitable thread locking  
compound to avoid the possibility of loosening.  
Note: Eyebolts must have a thread length of at least 18mm (3/4”).  
NOTE: The rigging points are designed to suspend single enclosures only. There is no  
facility to hang an additional cabinet below a flown TCS COMPACT series enclosure.  
tcs compact manual  
page 28  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
Flying Accessories  
EB-10 M10 x 18mm shoulder eyebolt  
Model  
TCS-151C  
TCS-121C  
TCS-101C  
TCS-081C  
Wall Bracket  
WB-55  
WB-20  
WB-20  
WB-20  
Ceiling Bracket  
Swivel Bracket  
OmniMount™  
CB-55  
CB-55  
CB-55  
CB-55  
SB-101  
60 series  
120 series  
60 series  
30 series  
Internal Rigging  
Points  
(9) M10  
(9) M10  
(9) M10  
(9) M10  
(4) M8 for WB-55  
or CB-55 brackets  
(4) M8 for  
(4) M8 for WB-20  
or CB-55 brackets  
(4) M6 for  
(4) M8 for WB-20  
or CB-55 brackets  
(4) M6 for  
(4) M8 for WB-20  
or CB-55 brackets  
(4) M6 for  
OmniMount™  
series brackets  
OmniMount™  
series brackets  
OmniMount™  
series brackets  
(2) M10 for SB-101  
OmniMount™  
series brackets  
WB-20 wall bracket (exploded view)  
SPEAKER  
PLATE  
WALL  
PLATE  
tcs compact manual  
page 29  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
Use of Thread Locking Compounds  
When assembling flying hardware to TCS Compact Series loudspeaker enclosures it is  
advisable to use thread-locking compounds to eyebolts and other bolts in order to avoid  
any possibility of loosening.  
The recommended thread-locking compound is Loctite 222.  
The threaded rigging points used in TCS Compact Series enclosures are manufactured  
from zinc-plated mild steel. Therefore, and additionally if the external bolts used are zinc-  
plated, zinc-passivated, stainless steel or anodised (as the majority are), then the  
corresponding activator, Loctite 7471, should be used to achieve 100% performance.  
Application: Spray Loctite 7471 into the thread holes and allow to evaporate. Apply  
Loctite 222 thread locking compound to the bolts prior to fitting, allowing sufficient to fill  
all the engaged threads. Assemble components and tighten as necessary.  
The parts may be disassembled by hand if required.  
tcs compact manual  
page 30  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
Servicing Information  
If any of the drive units in your TCS COMPACT series cabinet should cease functioning  
and need a replacement re-cone or diaphragm, you are advised to remove the faulty unit  
from the cabinet and send it to a professional service centre authorised to repair  
Turbosound loudspeakers.  
Removal of the low frequency driver(s)  
The perforated steel loudspeaker grille (1) is held in place under tension only, fitting into  
slots at either side of the baffle. There are no screws or other fixings holding the grille in  
place. Lay the cabinet on its back and, using two small screwdrivers inserted through the  
mesh of the grille, firmly pull the grille away from the slot at one side of the baffle until it  
is free. Set the grille aside for later re-assembly.  
Undo the screws (2) holding the driver in place and carefully lift it out and away from the  
cabinet. 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 cabinet 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 magnetic tape of any kind.  
To reinstate the speaker simply reverse the above procedure, making sure you observe  
the correct polarity when reconnecting the cables back into the terminals of the drive  
units.  
tcs compact manual  
page 31  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
Removal of the HF compression driver and LF driver  
The perforated steel loudspeaker grille (1) is held in place under tension only, fitting into  
slots at either side of the baffle. There are no screws or other fixings holding the grille in  
place. Lay the cabinet on its back and, using two small screwdrivers inserted through the  
mesh of the grille, firmly pull the grille away from the slot at one side of the baffle until it  
is free. Set the grille aside for later re-assembly.  
Undo the screws (2) holding the driver (5) in place and carefully lift it out and away from  
the cabinet. Make a note of the driver polarity for later reconnection. Disconnect the  
cables from the drive unit and completely remove the driver from the cabinet 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 magnetic tape of any kind.  
Remove the horn/driver (4) assembly by unscrewing the four screws (3) holding the  
flange in place. Lift it out and away from the cabinet. The high frequency driver can now  
be disassembled from the HF horn.  
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.  
tcs compact manual  
page 32  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
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.  
tcs compact manual  
page 33  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
EASERA is used for evaluating and measuring the transmission properties of both spaces  
and electrical equipment.  
EASE FOCUS is a free 2D ‘aiming’ program that can be used for aligning speaker stacks  
and particularly arrays. It uses configuration files in ASCII format made using compiler  
software which have the extension .efo.  
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.  
tcs compact manual  
page 34  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
Technical Specifications  
Sub Bass Enclosures  
Model  
TCS-218C  
TCS-215C  
TCS-118C  
TCS-115C  
Dimensions  
HxWxD  
1035x602x532mm  
40.7”x23.7”x20.9”  
891x550x506mm  
35.1”x21.7”x19.9”  
652x540x484mm  
25.7”x21.3”x19.1”  
652x465x423mm  
25.7”x18.3”x16.7”  
Net weight  
54.5kg(119.9lbs)  
47kg (103.4lbs)  
30kg (66lbs)  
25kg (55lbs)  
LF Driver  
Components  
2 x 18” (457mm)  
36Hz - 150Hz  
2 x 15” (381mm)  
40Hz - 150Hz  
1 x 18” (457mm)  
36Hz - 150Hz  
1 x 15” (381mm)  
43Hz - 150Hz  
Frequency  
Response  
±4dB  
Power Handling  
600 watts r.m.s.  
300 watts r.m.s.  
1200 watts program  
1200 watts @ 4 ohms  
600 watts program  
600 watts @ 8 ohms  
Recommended  
Amplifier Power  
Sensitivity  
1 watt @ 1metre  
101dB  
99dB  
98dB  
96dB  
Maximum SPL  
Continuous->  
Peak->  
129dB  
135dB  
127dB  
133dB  
123dB  
129dB  
121dB  
127dB  
Recommended  
Crossover  
12dB/octave low-pass at 150Hz  
Nominal  
Impedance  
4 Ohms  
8 Ohms  
Construction  
18mm (3/4”) birch plywood  
Grille  
Powder coated perforated steel mesh, backed with black reticulated foam on black cabinets  
and white acoustically transparent cloth on white cabinets.  
Connectors  
(1) Neutrik Speakon NL4MP, wired pin1+: positive, pin 1-: negative, pins 2+ and 2- N/C  
(1) 4-way barrier strip connector  
Flying  
Hardware  
(9) M10 internal threaded rigging points  
Finishes  
Black semi-matt textured paint (standard), white, raw birch plywood, and custom colours  
IP54 Weather  
Resistant  
Version  
TCS-218CW  
TCS-215CW  
TCS-118CW  
TCS-115CW  
tcs compact manual  
page 35  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
2-Way Enclosures  
Model  
TCS-151C  
TCS-121C  
TCS-101C  
TCS-081C  
Dimensions  
HxWxD  
652x468x423mm  
25.7”x18.4”x16.7”  
553x407x352mm  
21.8”x16”x13.9”  
508x366x319mm  
20”x14.4”x12.5”  
415x308x270mm  
16.3”x12.1”x10.6”  
Net Weight  
LF driver  
25.5kg (56.1lbs)  
1 x 15” (381mm)  
19kg (41.8lbs)  
16.5kg (36.3lbs)  
1 x 10” (254mm)  
12kg (26.4lbs)  
1 x 12” (305mm)  
1 x 8” (203mm)  
HF compression  
driver  
1 x 1” (25mm)  
Frequency Response  
±4dB  
45Hz - 20kHz  
60Hz - 20kHz  
65Hz - 20kHz  
70Hz - 20kHz  
Nominal Dispersion  
70°H x 40°V @ -6dB points  
100°H x 60°V @ -6dB points  
Power Handling  
300 watts r.m.s.  
600 watts program  
600 watts  
250 watts r.m.s.  
500 watts program  
500 watts  
200 watts r.m.s.  
400 watts program  
400 watts  
Recommended  
amplifier power @ 8  
Ohms  
Sensitivity  
1 watt @ 1 metre  
99dB  
97dB  
95dB  
93dB  
Maximum SPL  
continuous->  
peak->  
124dB  
130dB  
122dB  
128dB  
119dB  
125dB  
116dB  
122dB  
Internal Crossover  
High Pass  
1.8kHz  
2.2kHz  
3kHz  
24dB/octave  
12dB/octave  
Low Pass  
12d/B octave low-pass  
Nominal Impedance  
Construction  
Grille  
8 ohms  
15mm (5/8”) birch plywood enclosure  
12mm (1/2”)  
Powder coated perforated steel mesh, backed with black reticulated foam on black  
cabinets; backed with white acoustically transparent cloth on white cabinets  
Connectors  
Finishes  
(1) Neutrik Speakon NL4MP, wired pin1+: positive, pin 1-: negative, pins 2+ and 2- N/C  
(1) 4-way barrier strip connector  
Black semi-matt textured paint (standard), white, raw wood and custom colours  
IP54 Weather  
Resistant Version  
TCS-151CW  
TCS-121CW  
TCS-101CW  
TCS-081CW  
Notes:  
TCS-101C has a rotatable Converging Elliptical Waveguide™ for use with swivel bracket.  
TCS-081C has a fixed Converging Elliptical Waveguide™  
tcs compact manual  
page 36  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
70v/100v Line Transformer versions  
(Specifications as standard models accept for the following)  
Model  
TCS-151CT  
240, 120 and 60  
45Hz - 17kHz  
TCS-121CT  
120, 60 and 30  
60Hz - 17kHz  
TCS-101CT  
TCS-081CT  
60, 30 and 15  
75Hz - 17kHz  
13kg (28.6lbs)  
Tappings (Watts)  
120, 60 and 30  
65Hz - 17kHz  
18kg (39.6lbs)  
Frequency Response  
±4dB  
Net Weight  
28kg (61.6lbs)  
20.5kg (45.1lbs)  
Connectors  
(1) 4-way barrier strip connector with voltage taps at P, P/2, and P/4 watts  
Technical Specification Notes:  
1. Frequency response is measured on axis  
2. Nominal Dispersion and sensitivity are an average over stated bandwidth  
3. 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.  
tcs compact manual  
page 37  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
Spares List  
Model  
TCS-218C  
TCS-215C  
TCS-118C  
TCS-115C  
TCS-151C  
TCS-121C  
TCS-101C  
TCS-081C  
LF Driver  
Complete  
LS-1811  
LS-1523  
LS-1811  
LS-1514  
LS-1521  
LS-1219  
LS-1023  
LS-8010  
Re-cone Kit  
RC-1811  
RC-1523  
RC-1811  
RC-1514  
RC-1521  
RC-1219  
RC-1023  
RC-8010  
1” (25mm) HF  
Compression  
Driver  
CD-111  
HF Diaphragm  
RD-111  
Passive  
Crossover  
Network  
TXD-  
TCS-  
151-PX-  
A
TXD-  
TCS-  
TXD-  
TCS-  
101-PX-  
A
TXD-  
TCS-  
081-PX-  
A
121-PX-  
A
tcs compact manual  
page 38  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
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, United Kingdom, 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.  
tcs compact manual  
page 39  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
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 ........................................................................................................................  
tcs compact manual  
page 40  
 
user manual  
TCS Compact series  
Notes  
tcs compact manual  
page 41  
 

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