4. Amplifier Requirements and Setup
The BL Series speakers can be switched between 8Ω and 70V/100V operation using the switch located on the bottom of
each speaker (see Figure 2).
8Ω Operation
The BL Series bollards can be used with a standard 8Ω amplifier. Note that only
one BL Series bollard should be connected to each amplifier channel in 8Ω mode;
multiple bollards should not be connected in parallel to a single amplifier channel
in 8Ω mode. If using the bollards in an 8Ω application, ensure the tap switch is
positioned to the 8Ω setting (see Figure 2).
See the example system connection diagrams in Figure 3 (mono operation) and
Figure 4 (stereo operation). If using more than one bollard per amplifier channel, it is
recommended to use the 70V/100V configuration outlined below.
70V/100V Operation
The BL Series bollards feature a built-in transformer with an adjustable tap, allowing
them to be configured for 70V or 100V operation. If using the bollards in a 70V/100V
system, ensure the tap is positioned to the correct 70V/100V setting.
Some 70V/100V systems may require higher and lower output levels in different areas
of the listening environment. The adjustable tap allows the bollards to be adjusted for
the desired output level. Note that adjusting the tap settings will impact the wattage
calculations (see the Wattage Calculator at the URL below for more information).
The maximum number of bollards that can be connected to a 70V/100V system will depend upon the amplifier's power
capabilities. It is important to calculate the amplifier power required for the installation before beginning. See the
Wattage Calculator on the Definitive Technology website to determine the required amplifier power based on the
quantity of bollards connected to each amplifier channel and each speaker's tap setting: https://www.definitivetechnology.
com/outdoor.
IMPORTANT:
Ensure that the bollards are set to the correct setting for the application (i.e., 70V, 100V or 8Ω, see Figure
2). To avoid any damage to the amplifier, do not combine products set to the 70V/100V settings with products set to the
8Ω setting on a single amplifier.
CAUTION:
The amplifier should not be connected to AC power until all speaker wire connections have been made and
secured. High-power 70V/100V amplifiers present a serious shock hazard.
3
4
SPEAKER OUT
MONO
MONO
MONO
MONO
CHAN 1
CHAN 2
CHAN 3
CHAN 4
RIGHT (2)
SPEAKER OUT
CHAN 1
CHAN 2
LEFT
RIGHT
LEFT
RIGHT
BL-550
1 / 2
3
4
Figure 3
LEFT (1) / RIGHT (1)
LEFT (2)
RIGHT (2)
Figure 4
BL-550
BL-550
BL-650
BL-650
Figure 2
3
4
3
LEFT (2)
RIGHT (2)
LEFT (2)