REL Acoustics ‘ST III’ User Manual
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RUNNING IN
Care taken over running in will be rewarded by many years of pleasurable use. Both the
electronics and the drive unit will benefit from an initial period of carefully controlled use.
Possible damage may be sustained by running in the unit at too high a volume setting over an
extended period. On the other hand, by taking a little care over this initial period, about 24
hours of actual use, a longer life with a higher potential eventual performance is assured.
OVERLOAD PROTECTION
REL Sub-Bass Systems are designed as true sub-bass speakers. They are designed to
reproduce those exceptionally deep notes that are felt rather than heard. This they will
attempt to do at whatever volume level you set. If set too high no damage should result
because the built-in electronics will limit the cone movement. This electronic control is called
Set-Safe®. It constantly and instantaneously monitors the output from the power amplifier
and is totally transparent in operation until required. This means it has absolutely no effect on
the sound quality of any REL Sub-Bass System until an overload is detected. Ordinarily an
overload would cause the power amplifier to go into clipping with resultant loss of control over
the drive unit. Apart from being sonically offensive, this can cause drive unit damage. Set-
Safe® detects the point of incipient clipping and reduces the signal level to ensure actual
clipping does not occur.
Even without Set-Safe® overload would be a difficult thing to achieve because REL Sub-bass
Systems have particularly high current amplifiers and very powerful drive units specifically
designed for high sound pressure levels.
From our tests, we believe it would be very difficult to deliberately damage a REL Sub-bass
System. Nevertheless, anything can be damaged if sufficient effort is made. Although
everything possible has been done to minimise damage from moderate attempts at
overloading, there can be no defence against those individuals who deliberately and
perversely abuse the device. Such damage is NOT covered by Warranty. Please remember,
a REL Sub-Bass System is there to supplement your main system, not to overwhelm it!
CARE AND POLISHING
Grittex (sprayed) finishes:
These are best maintained by careful dusting with a lint free cloth. Alternatively, a soft
bristled brush may be used to sweep off any dust failing on the surface. If objects are to be
placed upon the top, it is advisable to use a small mat to protect the surface and to avoid the
risk of rattles.
Wood veneer finishes:
Dusting as above, plus the occasional polishing with a good quality furniture polish for the
wood veneers. Treat the finish as you would any other piece of quality furniture in your home.
