Marantz Imperial 5 Manual

The Marantz Imperial 5 is a high-performance bookshelf speaker system featuring 2-way bass reflex design, 6.5-inch woofer, 1-inch soft dome tweeter, 8-ohm impedance, 50-100W power handling, frequency response 45Hz-20kHz, sensitivity 88dB, and magnetic shielding. Designed for audiophile-grade home audio systems with premium crossover networks and gold-plated binding posts. Below are key sections for setup, specifications, operation, and maintenance.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Placement 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Connections 6. Connecting to Amplifier 7. Optimal Listening Setup 8. Speaker Positioning 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 6.5-inch woofer, 1-inch soft dome tweeter, Bass reflex port, Gold-plated binding posts, Magnetic shielding, Premium crossover network.

FeatureDescription
6.5-inch WooferPolypropylene cone for deep, accurate bass response
1-inch TweeterSoft dome design for smooth, detailed high frequencies
Bass Reflex PortRear-firing port for enhanced low-frequency performance
Gold-plated Binding PostsDual binding posts for bi-wiring/bi-amping capability
Magnetic ShieldingPrevents interference with nearby video displays
Crossover NetworkPremium components for seamless driver integration
Impedance8 ohms nominal for compatibility with most amplifiers
Power Handling50-100 watts RMS for dynamic performance
Frequency Response45Hz-20kHz (±3dB) for full-range reproduction
Sensitivity88dB (2.83V/1m) for efficient power utilization

Installation & Placement

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose optimal placement for best sound quality.

  1. Select location: Place on sturdy speaker stands or shelves at ear level.
  2. Position speakers: Maintain proper distance from walls (6-12 inches recommended).
  3. Angle speakers: Toe-in slightly toward listening position for optimal imaging.
  4. Ensure stability: Use included rubber feet or speaker spikes for isolation.

WARNING! Speakers are heavy; lift with care to avoid injury. Ensure stable placement to prevent tipping.

First-Time Setup

Connect speakers to amplifier/receiver following proper polarity.

  1. Check amplifier compatibility: Ensure 8-ohm minimum impedance support.
  2. Connect speaker wires: Use quality speaker cable; maintain proper polarity (+ to +, - to -).
  3. Set amplifier volume: Start at low volume and gradually increase.
  4. Test sound: Verify both speakers are working properly.
  5. Fine-tune placement: Adjust position for optimal stereo imaging.

CAUTION! Ensure amplifier is turned off during connection to prevent damage.

Specifications

Controls and Connections

No active controls on speakers. All adjustments made through connected amplifier/receiver.

Binding Posts: Dual gold-plated posts accept bare wire, spade connectors, or banana plugs. Remove plastic caps for bi-wiring capability.

Amplifier Controls: Volume, balance, tone controls, input selection on connected equipment.

Room Acoustics: Use amplifier's tone controls or room correction for optimal sound.

Connecting to Amplifier

Use quality speaker wire for optimal performance.

  1. Turn off amplifier before making connections.
  2. Strip wire ends: 1/2 inch of insulation for secure connection.
  3. Connect positive/negative: Match amplifier terminals to speaker terminals.
  4. Secure connections: Tighten binding posts firmly.
  5. Test polarity: Ensure both speakers are in phase.

Tip: Use identical length speaker wires for both channels to maintain balance.

Optimal Listening Setup

Position speakers for best stereo imaging and bass response.

  1. Listening triangle: Form equilateral triangle with listening position.
  2. Speaker height: Tweeters at ear level when seated.
  3. Distance from walls: 6-12 inches from rear wall, 2-3 feet from side walls.
  4. Toe-in angle: 15-30 degrees toward listening position.
  5. Room treatment: Use rugs, curtains, and furniture to control reflections.
  6. Break-in period: Allow 50+ hours of play for drivers to reach optimal performance.

WARNING! Do not place speakers in corners as this may cause excessive bass buildup.

Speaker Positioning

Different placement options for various room configurations.

PlacementRecommendationEffect on Sound
BookshelfUse isolation padsPrevents cabinet vibrations
Speaker Stands24-30 inch heightOptimal tweeter alignment
Wall MountUse proper bracketsMay enhance bass response
DesktopAngle upwardDirects sound to listening position

Care & Maintenance

Regular cleaning preserves appearance and performance.

  1. Dust regularly: Use soft, dry cloth for cabinet surfaces.
  2. Clean drivers: Use soft brush gently; avoid pressing on cones.
  3. Protect from moisture: Keep away from liquids and high humidity.
  4. Avoid direct sunlight: Prevents finish fading and material degradation.
  5. Check connections: Periodically verify wire connections are secure.

CAUTION! Never use chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners on speakers.

Regulatory Information

CE compliant: Meets European safety and EMC standards. RoHS compliant: Free of hazardous substances. Waste Electrical: Dispose of properly according to local regulations. Copyright © Marantz. For support, visit www.marantz.com or contact authorized Marantz dealers.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No sound from one speakerLoose connectionCheck speaker wires; verify amplifier output.
Distorted soundOverdriven amplifierReduce volume; check amplifier power rating.
Weak bass responsePlacement issueAdjust distance from walls; check room acoustics.
Hissing or buzzingGround loop/interferenceCheck cable routing; use quality interconnects.
Uneven stereo imageBalance/placementAdjust amplifier balance; reposition speakers.

Service: Contact authorized Marantz service center for driver replacement or internal repairs.

Warranty: 5-year limited warranty on drivers and components.

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