OEM Rectangular In-Wall Loudspeakers — 6-1/2" Installation Guide

Installation guide for OEM Systems' 6-1/2" rectangular in-wall loudspeakers with a 1-piece baffle and frame design. These two-way speakers use linear long-throw butyl rubber surround woofers with dome tweeters, and the frame/grille can be custom painted to match room decor.

Amplifier Operation

These speakers perform well with amplifiers from 5 to 125 Watts RMS. Damage can occur from amplifiers of any power rating if overdriven into clipping — a distortion condition where the amplifier is asked for more power than it can deliver. Reduce volume if you hear unusual distortion at high listening levels. Damage from clipping is not covered under warranty.

Speaker Placement

Placement should be carefully considered — locate speakers where they'll deliver the best sound and ease of installation. Note: though referred to as "wall mount," these speakers are also suitable for ceilings and custom cabinetry.

Wiring

• Use good quality stereo cable, 16 gauge or larger for runs over 50 feet, double-insulated ("jacketed") cable. Avoid single-insulated "zip cord."
• Keep wire length to a minimum, but allow about 2-1/2 feet of free wire at the cut-out plus sufficient length at the electronics end.
• Avoid running speaker cable parallel to electrical cable for extended lengths; don't staple or nail through the conductors.
• More than two pairs can be connected to one amplifier, but consult a professional if installing more than two pairs.
• Maintain correct polarity — reversed polarity on one speaker seriously impairs bass quality.

Model & Cut-Out Reference

Installation

1. Determine speaker placement, then verify the location isn't obstructed by a stud or hidden material — an electronic stud-finder helps here.
2. Using the paper template provided, mark the speaker cut-out location and cut the appropriate sized hole (a drywall saw gives the cleanest cuts on drywall).
3. Verify the speaker fits properly by passing the black mounting ring through the cut-out. It should fit comfortably; if the hole was cut slightly too large, the frame's flange will cover it.
4. If the wire hasn't been run yet, run it now. Pull the wire out of the wall, strip back the jacket, and expose 1/2" of each conductor. Connect to the terminals on the back of the speaker assembly, observing polarity.
5. Optionally place fibrous material (fiberglass or polyester fiber) behind the speaker to reduce sound transmission to adjoining rooms.
6. Install the speaker in the wall and gently tighten all screws so the mounting ring clamps against the back of the wallboard. If your speaker has six screws, begin with the middle pair. Avoid over-tightening, which can make grille installation difficult.
7. Install the grilles after testing speaker operation — work the grille edge into the frame starting at one corner and working around to the opposite corner.