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PROFESSIONAL SERIES
HIGH OUTPUT SURFACE MOUNT LOUDSPEAKER
PS-S85T
MANUAL
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
2 Box Contents
3 Product Features
4 Product Description
4 Amplifier Selection
4 Wire Selection
70V/100V System
8 ohm System
4 Loudspeaker Placement and Mounting
4 Pivoting the Loudspeaker
5 Grille and Loudspeaker Painting
5 Installation
7 Setting Transformer Tap
7 Fitting Terminal Cover
7 Removing Grille
9 Technical Specifications
10 Certifications and Safety Agency
10 Technical Assistance and Service
11 Warranty
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
This product is intended to be installed by professional
AV integrators and installers only. This product manual
is intended to serve as a general guideline for most
applications. It is the installer’s responsibility to ensure
this product is installed in accordance with local
building codes and regulations. Consult a local authority
for specific requirements, regulations, and building
codes of the jurisdiction in which this product is to be
installed.
READ THIS DOCUMENT IN ITS
ENTIRETY BEFORE ATTEMPTING USE
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Clean only with a dry cloth.
6. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions.
7. Do not install near a heat source such as radiators,
heat registers, stoves, fireplaces, or other apparatus
(including amplifiers) that produce heat.
8. Only use attachments/accessories specified by
Sonance.
9. This product is suitable for installation in outdoor
environments.
10. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Scan QR code for additional
information and resources. For
technical support call 949.492.7777
or visit www.sonance.com/
professionalseries
BOX CONTENTS
SURFACE MOUNT HIGH OUTPUT LOUDSPEAKER
(1) PS-S85T
(1) Loudspeaker Grille
(1) FastMount Bracket
(1) Wiring Terminal Cover
(1) Euroblock Wire Connector
(1) Variable Dispersion Horn
(1) Collar Removal Tool
(4) Rubber Mounting Point Covers
PROFESSIONAL SERIES
HIGH OUTPUT SURFACE MOUNT
PS-S85T
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Paintable Shell
Rotation Lock
Cable Pass-Through
FastMount Bracket
Corrosion-Resistant, Dacromet-Plated,
Steel Grille with Weatherized, Powder
Coating
High Excursion Woofer
Coaxial
Compression Driver
High Eciency Ported Design
Transformer Tap and
Bypass Selector
Variable Dispersion
Selector Switch
PRODUCT FEATURES
Variable Dispersion Horn and
Collar Assembly
Euroblock Connector
with Loop Through
Grille Retention Clip
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WIRE RESISTANCE IN OHMS VS. LENGTH OF CABLE
20 AWG
50’ 100’ 150’ 200’ 250’ 300’
0.86 1.73 2.59 3.45 4.32 5.18
0.65 1.30 1.94 2.59 3.24 3.89
0.43 0.85 1.28 1.71 2.14 2.56
0.27 0.54 0.81 1.08 1.35 1.62
0.17 0.34 0.51 0.68 0.85 1.02
Distance in Feet
18 AWG
16 AWG
14 AWG
12 AWG
PIVOTING THE LOUDSPEAKERS
You can rotate the loudspeaker in the bracket to direct
the sound towards the listeners.
1. Unlock the slide locks on the loudspeaker pivots by
moving them towards the rear of the loudspeaker.
2. Rotate the loudspeakers to the desired position.
3. Lock the slide locks by moving them towards the
front of the loudspeaker.
WALL/CEILING MOUNTING
It is important that the bracket is securely mounted onto
a structurally sound surface, capable of withstanding
the weight of the product and any vibration created by
the operation of the loudspeaker. Four screws points
must be used at all times. A screw size of #14 to #20
diameter x 2” length or M6 to M8 diameter x 50mm
length is recommended. When mounting onto drywall
or plasterboard, the bracket should be axed to a joist
or stud. When mounting onto brick or concrete, wall
plugs or concrete anchors should be used. Install a
safety cable from one of the 1/4-20 UNC threaded holes
on the back of the loudspeaker to a secure location on
the adjoining mounting surface (hardware not included).
Optional compatible third party mounts: OmniMount
15B (black) and OmniMount 15W (white).
POLE MOUNTING
To mount the loudspeaker on a pole, two U-bolts and
nuts should be used to clamp around the pole and bolt
through the four holes on the back of the FastMount
bracket. Spring washers or blue thread lock are
recommended to ensure the nuts do not work loose
through the vibration of the loudspeaker.
Wall Mount Ceiling Mount Pole Mount
Figure 2: Mounting
Figure 1: Wire Resistance
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
Sonance Professional Series High Output is a range of
70V/100V impedance and tap selectable loudspeakers
available as in-ceiling, surface mount, or pendant
models. These High Output models achieve elevated
SPL levels with the ability to field-configure each
loudspeaker for wide or narrow directivity. Their
shared voicing across form factors ensure seamless
sonic integration when deployed together throughout
commercial spaces.
AMPLIFIER SELECTION
When choosing an amplifier the maximum number of
loudspeakers and the output level of each loudspeaker
must be known. The sum of the tap settings should
never exceed 80% of the amplifier’s rated output. For
example, if there are five loudspeakers and the taps
are set at 15 watts, the load would be 75 watts (5 x 15
watts = 75 watts). To arrive at the needed power for this
number of loudspeakers, simply divide the total load by
0.8. In this case, 75/0.8 = 93.75 watts. A standard 100
watt amp would safely drive this load. To calculate the
amount of usable power an amp oers, simply multiply
the rated output by 0.8, i.e., 100 watts x 0.8= 80 watts.
WIRE GAUGE – 70V/100V SYSTEM
The most common wire used on commercial 70 volt
systems is 18 AWG, 2 conductor, stranded, and jacketed
without a shield. The wire starts at the amplifier location
and is paralleled at each loudspeaker location. Wire
length using 18 AWG is appropriate up to 700ft with a
100 watt load. If you double the load (sum of your tap
settings), you will reduce the footage by half, to 350ft.
Conversely, if you halve the load, you may double the
acceptable wire length, i.e., a 50 watt load is safe over
1,400ft of 18 AWG. Stepping up to 16 AWG wire extends
the allowable run length by approximately 35%. For
example, a 100 watt load can go 700ft on 18 AWG; the
same load may be placed on 1,100ft of 16 AWG.
WIRE GAUGE – 8 OHM SYSTEM
The total wire resistance should be less than 10% of
the loudspeaker impedance in an 8 ohm system. The
loudspeakers are nominally 8 ohms impedance, so your
total wire resistance should be no more than 0.8 ohms.
In simple terms, the extra resistance from the wire will
have a very negative aect on the sound quality of the
loudspeaker. The sound can be less dynamic, definition
of bass frequencies can be reduced, and in extreme
cases, the high frequencies can be attenuated. Amplifier
power is also wasted in the wire, reducing the maximum
output level of the system. Please refer to the following
chart (see Figure 1) when deciding on the appropriate
wire gauge for your installation.
LOUDSPEAKER PLACEMENT
The FastMount mounting system makes it easy to
mount the loudspeakers in a variety of positions and
locations (see Figure 2).
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2. Run the loudspeaker wires from the amplifier to the
loudspeaker locations and through the holes in the
mounting brackets.
NOTE: Be sure to leave enough wire at the loudspeaker
location to feed through the tunnel in the loudspeaker
enclosure and wire to the Euroblock Connector on the
front.
3. Attach the mounting bracket to the mounting
surface using hardware (not included) that is
appropriate for the type of surface. Stainless
hardware is recommended.
4. If the installation requires that the loudspeakers be
mounted on poles you can attach the bracket to
poles using appropriately sized U-bolts (71mm/2.8”
spacing, not included, see Figure 5).
5. Feed the loudspeaker wires from the brackets
into the wire entry grommets on the backs of the
loudspeakers, through the wire tunnels and out the
openings on the loudspeakers’ front panels (see
Figure 6 and 7).
• The grommet forms a water-resistant seal around
the loudspeaker wire.
• The grommet has one through hole and one pilot
dimple. If an input and output cable are required for
installation, use a sharp awl to punch an additional
through hole in the pilot divot. This will allow for
two cables to pass through the grommet and
remain water-tight.
• Make sure there is enough slack in the wire to allow
the loudspeaker to pivot on the bracket.
GRILLE AND LOUDSPEAKER
PAINTING
Sonance Professional Series Surface Mount High Output
loudspeakers feature a tough polypropylene enclosure
that can be painted. Sonance recommends using a
weather-resistant outdoor paint and a spray gun.
1. If they have already been installed, remove the
grilles from the loudspeakers.
2. To protect the loudspeaker driver units during
painting, place the grilles on a piece of cardboard
and trace around their outlines. Then cut the
cardboard just inside of the trace line and fit these
“paint plugs” into the loudspeakers’ baes. Be
careful not to damage the driver components while
fitting the paint plugs.
3. Prime the grille with a metal primer/bonder in
a spray can. Carefully follow the manufacturer’s
directions on the can.
4. We recommend using water-based latex paint on
the grilles. Thin the paint with a proper thinning
agent to a ratio of 1:1 paint-to-thinner, and strain it
through a standard mesh strainer to remove any
lumps.
IMPORTANT: Due to its increased durability, oil-based
paint should be considered for Professional Series
Loudspeakers that are installed outdoors.
5. Use a small touch-up gun or cap-spray gun with a
#3 tip for painting.
• Set the nozzle with a medium to wide fan.
• Set the pressure regulator to 60psi.
• Lightly spray the front of the grille in three quick
strokes from approximately 10” away.
• Let the paint set for a minute, then turn the grille 90
degrees and lightly spray the grille again in three
quick strokes. Repeat this step until all four sides of
the grille have been evenly painted.
6. While the paint is still wet, inspect the grille and
make sure that none of the grille perforations are
filled with paint. If any are, use compressed air to
blow the paint out of the perforations.
INSTALLING THE LOUDSPEAKERS
The best performance is obtained by placing the left
and right loudspeakers at ear level, 6–10ft apart. The
loudspeakers should be facing the listening area. If
you are mounting the loudspeakers above or below
ear level, pivot them up or down to direct the sound
towards the listeners.
1. Remove the loudspeakers from the mounting
brackets by lifting the tabs on the front panels
outward and away from each other (see Figure 4).
Figure 4: Surface Mount Bracket Removal
Figure 5: Attaching Bracket
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Parallel Connection To Next LoudspeakerFrom Power Amplifier
Loop Thru Connection To Next LoudspeakerFrom Power Amplifier
Parallel Connection To Next LoudspeakerFrom Power Amplifier
Loop Thru Connection To Next LoudspeakerFrom Power Amplifier
7. Connect the wires from your amplifier to the input
connector.
8. Strip approximately 0.1875” (5mm) of the insulation
o each wire. Insert the wire into the correct square
opening on the connector. Use a small flat head
screwdriver to tighten the corresponding screw to
secure the wire.
When using multiple loudspeakers you can connect the
loudspeakers either in parallel or in the loop through
method as shown (see Figure 8 and 9).
From Power Amplifier To Next Loudspeaker
From Power Amplifier To Next Loudspeaker
Figure 7: Attach Loudspeakers to Brackets
Figure 8: Parallel Connection
Figure 9: Loop Thru Connection
9. Install the appropriate dispersion assembly. Sonance
Professional Series High Output Loudspeakers
feature a magnetic interchangeable collar/horn
assembly that can be swapped out to achieve the
desired coverage (see Figure 10). For wide coverage
applications, leave the collar assembly in place
(comes installed as default). For narrow coverage
applications, remove the collar and install the horn.
NOTE: The selector switch located on the bae must
be assigned to the appropriate position to match the
installed assembly (see Figure 11).
Figure 10: Horn and Collar Assembly
Figure 11: Selector Switch
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WIDE/COLLAR
This Professional Series High Output Loudspeaker ships
with the collar installed.
• For applications requiring wide loudspeaker
coverage, no assembly changes are needed.
• Ensure the selector on the front bae is in the
“WIDE/COLLAR” position.
Collar
Horn
Figure 6: Wire Entry Grommet
6. Slide the loudspeakers onto the brackets until the
locks snap into place (see Figure 7).
NOTE: Be sure that the bracket clips snap completely
into place to prevent any blockage within the
loudspeaker perimeter where the grille is to be
inserted. Pull on the front of the cabinet to ensure the
clips are fully sealed and that the bracket is secure.
Pull enough wire through the front of the loudspeaker
to allow connection to the terminals.
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10. Determine the proper
wattage setting for
each loudspeaker in the
installation and set each
loudspeaker’s transformer
tap selector (see Figure 13).
Figure 13: Transformer Tap
SETTING TRANSFORMER TAP
SWITCH
Sonance Professional Series Surface Mount High Output
Loudspeakers are factory set for maximum output
when used with a Sonamp DSP 2-750 MKIII or another
70V/100V amplifier. No additional work is necessary
if the loudspeakers are operating in 70V or 100V and
can run at their full volume capacity. Applications for
changing the tap switch from factory default:
• Loudspeakers are to be installed in sensitive areas
and need to be “tapped down” for lower volume.
• More loudspeakers are needed to be added to
a 70V/100V amplifier already operating at full
capacity.
• A small zone is to be driven by an 8 ohm amplifier.
• Then, pull up to remove the collar. The collar can be
discarded unless the installer plans to relocate the
loudspeaker in the future, in which case the collar
can be reserved.
• The horn attaches magnetically. Align the horn into
position and it will snap into place.
• Switch the selector on the front bae to the
“NARROW/HORN” position.
NOTE: If removal of the horn is required, no tool is
needed. The horn attaches magnetically and can be
installed and removed by hand.
Figure 12:
Selector Switch
Step 5: Collar Removal
NARROW/HORN
For applications requiring narrow loudspeaker coverage,
the collar will need to be removed for the horn to be
installed. Sonance includes a collar claw removal tool for
easy collar removal.
• Identify the four slots on the collar marked by blue
rings.
• Align the collar removal tool with two of the slots
and snap the tool into place.
Step 1: Squeeze Tool
Step 3: Tool Snaps into Place
Step 4: Remove Collar with Tool
Squeeze
Tool
Squeeze
Tool
Step 2: Insert Tool into Collar
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Figure 16: Removing the Grille
NOTE: To remove the grille, we suggest starting in
any one of the four corners using a grille pulling
tool (not included). Repeat for the remaining three
corners, being careful not to bend the grille skirt. If the
grille skirt does become bent during removal, it can
be straightened by carefully bending it back into its
original shape.
FITTING AND REMOVING THE GRILLE
1. When installing the grille, align the grille trim skirt
with the groove in the enclosure.
2. To lock the grille in place apply pressure at the
locations of the six grille retention clips. An audible
click should be heard as the grille locks into place.
Figure 15: Pushing the Grille into Place
Figure 14: Attach the Connector Cover
8 OHM TAP SETTINGS
Aligning the values on the dial with the arrow indicators
on either side to the “8 ohm” setting bypasses the
internal transformer for operation with low impedance
amplifiers.
70V TAP SETTINGS
Align the arrow positioned with the 70V values to the
desired wattage setting. Turning the dial one click
stop in either direction increases or decreases the
loudspeaker’s input power.
100V TAP SETTINGS
Align the arrow positioned with the 100V values to
the desired wattage setting. Turning the dial one click
counter clockwise decreases the speaker’s input power.
FITTING THE TERMINAL COVER
Fit the wiring terminal cover into the recess in the
loudspeakers’ front panel (see Figure 14). The cover
should fit tightly, but can be removed and replaced if
the loudspeaker needs to be disconnected.
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PS-S85T TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
• PS-S85T Replacement Grille White (EA) | 40245
• PS-S85T Replacement Grille Black (EA) | 40246
• PS-S85T FastMount Bracket White (PR) | 40247
• PS-S85T FastMount Bracket Black (PR) | 40248
• PS-S85T Omni Mount Bracket White (EA) | 40249
• PS-S85T Omni Mount Bracket Black (EA) | 40250
• PS-x85 Horn/Collar Kit (EA) | 40251
SKU
Transducers LF Drive
Transducers HF Driver
Frequency Range (-10dB) *
Frequency Range (+/-3dB) *
Long Term Power Handling (IEC) ‡
Program Power
Sensitivity (2.83V/1M) §
Long Term - Maximum SPL ‡
Program Power - Maximum SPL ‡
Rated Impedance
Transformer Taps (8 ohm Bypass)
Collar Coverage Pattern 1kHz to 10kHz †
Horn Coverage Pattern 1kHz to 10kHz †
Collar Directivity Factor (Q)
Horn Directivity Factor (Q)
Collar Directivity Index (DI)
Horn Directivity Index (DI)
Ingress Protection
Operating Temperature Range
Agency Listings
Conformity
Enclosure and Bae Material
Grille Material
Capture Thickness
Suspension Points
Enclosure Cubic Volume
Enclosure/Port Tuning
Input Connector
Product (no C-Bracket) (HxWxD)
Product (with C-Bracket) (HxWxD)
Product Weight (no Grille)
Product Weight (with Grille)
C-Bracket Weight
Shipping Weight
40236 | Black | Each 40235 | White | Each
8” (203mm) Aluminum Cone, Santoprene Surround, Ferrite Magnet,
60.55mm Voice Coil
1.4” (36mm) Aluminum Dome Compression Driver, Neodymium Magnet,
36mm Voice Coil, 1500Hz Crossover Frequency, 1” (25mm) Exit Size
36.6Hz - 25kHz
41.4Hz - 20kHz
150 Watts (600 Watts Peak), 100 Hours
300 Watts (1200 Watts Peak), Two Hours
93dB SPL
114dB (120dB Peak)
117dB (123dB Peak)
8 ohm Bypass
70V: 120W, 60W, 30W, 15W | 100V: 120W, 60W, 30W
120 Degrees Axis Symmetric
80 Degrees Axis Symmetric
5.7 (Average 1kHz to 16kHz)
8.65 (Average 1kHz to 16kHz)
7.5dB (Average 1kHz to 16kHz)
9dB (Average 1kHz to 16kHz)
IPX4
-40 F (-39.96 C) to 140 F (60 C)
UL 1480A, CSA-C22.2 No.205
NFPA70, NFPA 90A
Polypropylene Plastic (UL94V-0)
Steel
0” to 2.12” (0mm to 53.84mm)
Top, Bottom, and Back
0.83 Cubic Feet (23.5 Cubic Liters)
41.1Hz
Four Pin, Euroblock with Loop Output Connections
19.47” x 11.57” x 10.25” (494.5mm x 293.9mm x 260.3)
20.86” x 11.57” x 11.02” (529.8mm x 293.9mm x 279.9)
27.76 lbs. (12.59kg) EA
29.3 lbs. (13.29kg) EA
3.31 lbs. (1.5kg) EA
45.67 lbs. (20.71kg) PR
INCLUDED ACCESSORIES
• (1) Loudspeaker Grille
• (1) FastMount Bracket
• (1) Wiring Terminal Cover
• (1) Euroblock Wire Connector
• (1) Variable Dispersion Horn
• (1) Collar Removal Tool
• (4) Rubber Mounting Point Covers
* In half space | † Average 1 kHz to 10 kHz | ‡ IEC 268-5 standard, with 6 dB crest factor | § Measured in half space, ave 100 Hz – 10 kHz | UL evaluated
frequency range of 50-20kHz
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CERTIFICATIONS
SAFETY AGENCY COMPLIANCE
Sonance Professional Series Loudspeaker model
PS-S85T meets the following standards:
NFPA-70 National Electric Code 1996, article 300-22(c).
NFPA-90A Installation of Air Conditioning and
Ventilation Systems, section 2-3.10.1 (a), exception 3.
UL-1480A
IMPEDANCE 8 OHMS
MAX RATED POWER 150 WATTS
SUITABLE FOR USE IN AIR HANDLING SPACES
LISTED GENERAL SIGNALING EQUIPMENT SPEAKER
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND
SERVICE
The Technical Assistance Department at Sonance is
available at (949) 492-7777 to answer any questions
concerning the operation and installation of your
loudspeakers between the hours of 7:00 AM and
5:00 PM Pacific time, Monday through Friday, except
holidays.
In the event your unit should need repair or service, you
may return the unit to your authorized dealer or use the
following guidelines:
Please keep original packaging when possible.
1. Be prepared to state the model number and / or
serial number, date of purchase, and dealer’s name
and address when calling.
2. Contact Sonance directly at (949) 492-7777 or at
www.sonance.com
YOU MUST HAVE PRIOR AUTHORIZATION TO RETURN
YOUR UNIT.
3. If you are returning the product directly to Sonance,
call us to obtain a return authorization number
(RMA #) before shipping.
4. Ship the product via United Parcel Service, Federal
Express, or other package delivery service. Please
do not use the U.S. Postal Service.
Write the Return Authorization Number on the shipping
label. Do not write it on the outside of the box.
Ship to:
Attn: Quality Assurance Department
Sonance
11016 Mulberry Ave, Suite B
Fontana, CA 92337
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LIMITED FIVE (5) YEAR WARRANTY
Sonance warrants to the first end-user purchaser that this Sonance-brand product (“Product”), when purchased from
an authorized Sonance Dealer/Distributor, will be free from defective workmanship and materials for the period stated
below. Sonance will at its option and expense during the warranty period, either repair the defect or replace the Product
with a new or re-manufactured Product or a reasonable equivalent.
EXCLUSIONS
TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, THE WARRANTY SET FORTH ABOVE IS IN LIEU OF, AND EXCLUSIVE OF,
ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AND IS THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE WARRANTY PROVIDED
BY SONANCE. ALL OTHER EXPRESS AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY, IMPLIED WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR USE, AND IMPLIED WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE SPECIFICALLY EXCLUDED.
No one is authorized to make or modify any warranties on behalf of Sonance. The warranty stated above is the sole and
exclusive remedy, and Sonance’s performance shall constitute full and final satisfaction of all obligations, liabilities, and
claims with respect to the Product.
IN ANY EVENT, SONANCE SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, ECONOMIC, PROPERTY,
BODILY INJURY, OR PERSONAL INJURY DAMAGES ARISING FROM THE PRODUCT, ANY BREACH OF THIS WARRANTY,
OR OTHERWISE.
This warranty statement gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights which vary from state to state.
Some states do not allow the exclusion of implied warranties or limitations of remedies, so the above exclusions and
limitations may not apply. If your state does not allow disclaimer of implied warranties, the duration of such implied
warranties is limited to period of Sonance’s express warranty. Your Product Model and Description: PS-S85T. Warranty
Period for this Product: Five (5) years from the date on the original sales receipt or invoice or other satisfactory
proof of purchase. Additional Limitations and Exclusions from Warranty Coverage: The warranty described above is
nontransferable, applies only to the initial installation of the Product, does not include installation of any repaired or
replaced Product, does not include damage to allied or associated equipment which may result for any reason from use
with this Product, and does not include labor or parts caused by accident, disaster, negligence, improper installation,
misuse (e.g. overdriving the amplifier or speaker, excessive heat, cold or humidity, mishandling, etc.), or from service
or repair which has not been authorized by Sonance. Obtaining Authorized Service: To qualify for the warranty, you
must contact your authorized Sonance Dealer/Installer or call Sonance Customer Service at (949) 492-7777 within the
warranty period, must obtain a return merchandise number (RMA), and must deliver the Product to Sonance shipping
prepaid during the warranty period, together with the original sales receipt, or invoice or other satisfactory proof of
purchase.
©2025 Sonance. All rights reserved. Sonance is a registered trademarks of Dana Innovations. Due to continuous product improvement, all features and
specifications are subject to change without notice. For the latest Sonance product specification information visit our website: www.sonance.com
SONANCE • 991 Calle Amanecer • San Clemente, CA 92673 USA | PHONE: (949) 492-7777 08.29.2025
