Please click here to download the Torus manual - Wilson Benesch

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System Manual
Patented technology

WELCOME
Thank you for investing in a Wilson Benesch product.
The Torus Infrasonic Generator is completely original in thought and execution, and is
manufactured by Wilson Benesch in Sheffield. The finest materials in the world have been
designed into this product, materials technologies that you will not find in any other audio
product.
This manual has been constructed to facilitate both ease of installation and long-term use as
well as important safety information and helpful advice. It is strongly advised that you carefully
absorb this before embarking upon the installation.
1

WORLD WIDE WARRANTY
In addition to any local warranty, Wilson Benesch offers a 3 year conditional warranty to the end user.
This is done in collaboration with our distributors.
The conditions of this warranty are:
1. That Wilson Benesch receive the necessary registration details from the end user.
2. That these details are received within six weeks of purchase.
3. That it is only valid for the first owner and that it is not transferable.
4. Neither transportation, nor any other costs, nor any risk for removal, transportation and installation of
products is covered by this warranty.
5. That it is limited to the repair of the equipment only.
6. That any claim is accompanied by the necessary proof of purchase.
7. That cover does not extend to damage caused by faulty or unsuitable ancillary equipment.
8. That the serial number has not been altered, deleted, removed or made illegible.
9. That it shall be for a term of 3 years from the data of purchase.
10. That the product has not been abused or modified in any way.
11. That it was purchased originally from a Wilson Benesch authorised dealer.
This warranty is offered in good faith and is in addition to any statuary rights or existing Warranty that may be
available to the end user.
Should your Wilson Benesch Torus system exhibit a problem, please contact your dealer who will be able to make
the necessary arrangements to correct it.
SERVICE AFTER WARRANTY
Please contact your dealer in the first instance before returning the product directly to us. Should the unit need to
be returned for any reason, all carriage costs will be payable by the customer. Losses or damage caused during
transit are the customers’ risk.
How to claim repairs under warranty:
Should service be required, please follow the following procedure:
1. If the equipment is being used in the country of purchase, you should contact the Wilson Benesch authorised
dealer from whom the equipment was purchased.
2. If the equipment is being used outside the country of purchase, you should contact the Wilson Benesch
national distributor in the country of residence who will advise where the equipment can be serviced. You can
call Wilson Benesch in the UK or visit our web site to get the contact details for your local distributor. To
validate your warranty, you will need to produce this warranty booklet completed and stamped by your dealer
on the date of purchase. Alternatively, you will need the original sales invoice or other proof of ownership and
date of purchase.
2

INTRODUCTION
Because These
Don’t Work…..
We Designed Something That Does!
3

So we started here!
4

And created this
To do this
Isobaric Tactic ®
5

Benefits of the ‘CLAMSHELL’ Design
CLAMSHELL orientation of
Tactic drive unit cancels third
order non-linearity’s.
At 200 Hz and below the
composite diaphragm is coupled
and can be seen as a solid,
super lightweight structure.
For a given limit of low frequency,
the enclosure volume required by
the Isobaric is half that of the
single driver, conventional option.
The composite diaphragm
defeats the communication of
internal reflections and other
distortion that is unwanted
energy acting against the music.
6

Which led to The Bishop
Reference (1999)
8 Motors driving 8 cones to achieve dynamics
Five years later a feasibility study grew out
of this work that led to this
7

Which then led to these ideas
That enabled this!
8

WILSON BENESCH DESIGN PHILOSOPHY AND LOW
FREQUENCY SOUND
To date, all audio designers attempting to create low frequency sound have produced a variable of
the ubiquitous Subwoofer. In reality, the only option available to the consumer, has been to opt for
brand A’s version of the collection of parts, as opposed to brand B’s version. As competition has
grown, the variables have changed. Bigger amplifiers to drive more inefficient woofers or different
cabinet materials, essentially they have remained the same. After three years of research and
development, the Torus System can be seen to offer a significant departure from the Subwoofer
solution for developing infrasonic sound. This product is so different, that it clearly demonstrates the
fundamental flaws in the design of the Subwoofer and provides a real alternative for Music and
Cinema effects. Wilson Benesch designs have always been driven by the goal of introducing
something that is alternative and superior. The Isobaric Tactic¨ is one good example of this
approach It demonstrates how one innovative development can make another possible.
SUBWOOFER HISTORY
Richard Lord of R.E.L. was the architect of the Sub woofer. It was and still is today, two decades
later, still based around three elements (i) the wooden box (ii) woofer (iii) built in amplifier. Almost
without exception every other audio company has followed the same formula. Even those who claim
to have achieved something different can be seen to use the Woofer and an identical formula, with
subtle variations, such as two drivers instead of one, or different materials for the cabinet. Which
ever design you chose to look at, for the last fifteen years the entire audio industry has devoted all of
its energy to creating designs based upon the same formula. Notably, Wilson Benesch has always
rejected this solution. In fact to its credit it has never seen fit to use large drive units to solve any low
frequency problems. There is no way around the fundamental problems that come with the large
woofer designs, either in loudspeakers or Sub Woofer designs. Insurmountable obstacles stand in
the way of the successful Sub woofer solution, whether it is large or small.
9

Small option:
Here the drive unit will be unable to move large amounts of air instantaneously, because in order to
move any real volume of air, the small diaphragm will need to travel a long distance to make up for
its small size. This pumping action will be incapable of reproducing the explosive timpani. The main
benefit of this design comes from the relatively small sound signature from the cabinet. However the
small volume of air available will create a strong spring effect on the moving parts that will elevate
the resonant frequency of the drive unit, severely limiting its ability to produce energy below 35
Hertz.
Large option:
Making the parts larger confounds the designer in a different way because the large diaphragm
becomes more difficult to control, so stiffer suspensions are needed. These stiff suspensions
elevate the resonant frequency of the drive unit. What follows is a balancing act between adding
mass to the diaphragm to lower the resonant frequency and the Stiffness of the suspension. Both
these options impact upon the movement of the coil thought the air gap. This often requires
increases in the air gap and consequential decline in power. There are severe limits here also, due
to the inexpensive drop forged components and ceramic magnets that are used almost without
exception in the vast majority of Woofers.
THE WEAKEST LINK
The most important problem that is accepted without exception in every sub woofer is in fact the
woofer itself. Although large diaphragm systems are commonly accepted, it is easy to demonstrate
that they cannot integrate with the fast small drive units used to reproduce the mid range sound
energy. The laws of physics dictate that you cannot accelerate and decelerate large systems like
you can small ones. Woofer designers have attempted to reduce the problems by using stiff
suspensions, and in some cases doubling the numbers deployed, in order to provide the restoring
force to the diaphragm. This solution defeats the dynamic capabilities even more! The problems do
not end here. The next major compromise of the woofer, is its dependence upon the external
structure. The Woofer is of course attached directly to the external structure. The huge forces
injected into this structure cause massive sympathetic resonance’s that are clearly audible and
impact directly upon the sound that is heard. As the cabinet increases in size, so do the resonance
problems. In fact it must be accepted that there will be an exponential increase in cabinet
resonance’s.
10

Summary of major flaws of the Sub Woofer:
• The woofer is fastened to and relies fundamentally upon the cabinet structure.
• The inefficiency of the woofer.
• The inaccuracy of the woofer components.
• The amplifier is housed in the same enclosure as all the high levels of energy being
produced by the system.
Summary of the major design elements of the Torus System:
The first and most important design element of the Torus solution is that it is not based upon the
Woofer and this is why it is not called a Subwoofer. By designing out the woofer, all the design flaws
that have been tolerated to date are eliminated at the beginning of the design.
THE CORE
As its name suggests, the Core is at the heart of the Torus design.
It is a formidable structural element of Brunelian proportions.
Weighing in at over 16 kg, the precision machined assembly,
combines with high energy Rare Earth magnets to create a dual
motor / push pull drive.
The Core also provides a number of other important benefits that
are elaborated upon below:-
1. Converts electrical energy into kinetic energy.
2. High capacity metal sink conducts all structural borne resonant energy directly to ground with
zero reference to the outer enclosure.
3. High metal mass efficiently conducts all heat away from the coils.
4. Unlike in the Woofer where high hysteresis suspensions are axiomatic, the control of the
diaphragm in the Torus is achieved electrically. The two powerful motors subsequently waste
no energy overcoming these losses.
5. The combination of two high power motors, low mass moving parts, and low stiffness
suspensions, is quite unlike anything seen before, and enables a dynamic performance, and
level of control that is beyond the capabilities of any sub woofer.
11

6. Huge 82 mm diameter motor coils are deployed on both sides of the diaphragm in order to
provide for perfectly balanced kinetics. This novel “push pull” is often seen in other
engineering applications, where maximum control and power transfer is required. It can be
compared to a four wheel drive system and its advantages over only two wheel drive. In
cycling it can be seen that high power demands require that the pedals be pushed as well as
pulled. The Woofer could never achieve the control afforded by this design. To achieve the
same control in a Woofer, stiff restoring suspensions are required, that instantly
compromises the transient attack and dynamics of the system.
BORON NITRIDE
The huge Core assembly already affords the motors’ system with a huge
heat sink capacity several orders of magnitude superior to the limits of the
Woofer. To maximise conduction, Boron Nitride has been exploited, a
materials technology that is not yet commercially available! Developed by
an Oxford scientist, it provides for an electrical insulator that is capable of
conducting heat like copper. Boron Nitride is applied to the coil former, to
enhance conduction.
CARBON FIBRE DIAPHRAGM
The powerful push pull motors are capable of handling 500 amperes,
converting over 1,000 watts of electro magnetic energy into kinetic energy.
Huge compression and decompression forces are involved, and this
demands the most advanced materials technology to avoid being literally
torn apart. The most advanced manufacturing technology in the world has
been designed and created by Wilson Benesch in order to form this
material, and you will only see this technology applied in the future, in the
most advanced engineering applications. Once again Wilson Benesch is the
first company in the world to exploit the world’s latest technologies. In this
case the novel weave of the carbon fibre makes multiple axis draping achievable with ease. The
result is the stiffest, lightest and most highly damped diaphragm ever made. It takes the
performance of large diaphragm structures to a level never achieved before. It is in fact so strong,
that the 18gm structure will cope with a mass load in excess of 100,000 times its own mass!
12

Moving large amounts of air in an instant demands a
large moving surface that small systems simply cannot
deliver, it is a matter of physics. The Torus exploits one
of the biggest diaphragms despite its petite dimensions.
The 18 inch diaphragm displaces huge volumes
instantaneously. There is no pumping or long throw
demands. Transients are handled with ease, giving rise
to the chest moving kick drum and attack that is quite
impossible with Sub Woofers. Rarefied and compressed air is generated in an instant, with even
small amounts of movement, not dissimilar to a drum! The most important effect is not the infrasonic
sound, but how all the sound is transformed in the principle loudspeakers. The Transient information
tells the ear everything about the instrument, and when it is reproduced accurately, the results are
totally different to what has been accepted from Subwoofers.
EXTERNAL AMPLIFIER
The passive design immediately frees the amplifier
of the severe low frequency energy distortions that
have been happily accepted by Sub Woofers
designers to date. Consider for a moment a world
where audiophiles pay small fortunes for isolation
systems to protect their equipment, yet happily
accept the same amplifier technology being
housed in the same enclosure, only millimetres
away from the ground shaking resonance's of the
sub Woofer! Absurd! In the Torus, the low
frequency structural borne energy developed by
the system has no link, except for cables to the amplifier. The Torus Amplifier enables both high and
low level inputs to be fixed independently for both Music and Cinema. This approach will also
provide for upgrades in the future, and of course the idea of multiple Torus systems for large set
ups, executable with ease.
13

So, why is it that this has not been done before?
Innovation is expensive and full of risk. To do something different is potentially life threatening for
any company. Years of development costs, investment in plant and equipment and initial production
runs all contribute to the reason why many audio companies simply avoid embarking upon such
work. Because of this it is sadly the case that many companies no longer have the infrastructure to
undertake original engineering. In contrast Wilson Benesch has invested in manufacturing systems
on an on going basis, and is in fact the only company in the audio world that can boast of
engineering facilities in C.N.C. metal machining and carbon fibre composites under the same roof as
the State of the Art 3 D CAD facilities. This engineering capability has empowered the company and
allowed it the luxury of being able to reject the large drive unit or Woofer. More importantly, it has
perhaps assisted in providing access to significant Government S.M.A.R.T. funding with which to
develop new solutions like the Isobaric Tactic system. The company was also successful in winning
funding for the Torus project in 2004. In retrospect this product can be seen as an intellectual
stepping-stone that placed the Torus concept within reach. These innovations have important
technical advantages that will always compare favourably with large, slow and heavily damped
woofer based designs.
The listening experience is the test. It can be seen that the Torus provides the perfect partner to the
super fast, linear phase, Wilson Benesch loudspeaker.
14

The
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Amplifier
Owners Manual
© 2009 Wilson Benesch Ltd
15

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE TORUS AMPLIFIER
Caution:
To avoid the risk of electric shock do not remove the panel from the
Amplifier cabinet. If this unit fails or has a serious deterioration in
performance then refer repair to the dealer where you purchased the
unit.
1) Please read these instructions carefully and keep them for future reference.
2) Please heed all warnings.
3) It is strongly advised that the Torus system is installed, by a suitably trained
person, to avoid causing damage or injury resulting from an incorrect
installation.
4) Do not use this apparatus near water or allow it to get wet.
5) Keep well ventilated.
6) Do not install near heat sources such as radiators, stoves etc.
7) Protect the power cord from damage.
8) Disconnect from the power supply during lightning storms or extended periods
of inactivity.
9) Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. If the unit develops a fault of
any sort please refer repair back to your dealer.
10) Do not force the controls or switches further than their normal stops.
11) Clean with a dry soft cloth. If you do use polish, then apply polish to the cloth
not directly to the unit.
UNPACKING
The easiest way to unpack the Torus amplifier to avoid damage is as follows:
• Open the carton flaps right back and invert the carton and contents.
• Lift the carton away from the product.
• We recommend that you retain the packaging for future use.
In addition to this manual, the carton should contain:
1 Torus Amplifier
1 Mains lead
1 High Level Signal Lead, for use with two-channel operation.
16

TORUS AMPLIFIER CONNECTIONS
Always switch off your system before disconnecting or connecting any wires.
To ensure connecting up of the Torus Amplifier is as versatile as possible we have included two
separate inputs. One Neutrik Speakon socket and two pairs of gold plated RCA sockets for
inputs and another pair of gold plated RCA sockets to daisy chain the signal to another source.
This makes the Torus amp extremely easy to connect simultaneously to both Hi-Fi and AV
surround systems.
The high level input is an unbalanced dual channel (stereo) input that uses a professional touch
proof Neutrik Speakon connector. Signals for this input would normally be sourced from the left
and right speaker terminals of the main system amplifier. The advantage of this method is that
the Torus Amplifier receives exactly the same signal as being supplied to the main speakers.
This means that the character and tonal balance of the bass from the main speakers is carried
through to the Torus Amplifier and then to the Torus Infrasonic Generator.
The low level input is via one set of the gold plated RCA to RCA connectors marked as “IN” on
the front panel. Signals for the low level input are unbalanced and would normally be sourced
from the LFE output of an AC3 decoder. Alternatively the low level input can be connected to a
dedicated sub out of a processor (for single outputs connect to the input marked “Mono”), or to
a stereo pre-amp output where available.
1) Amplified summed mono output to drive the Torus Infrasonic Generator.
2) Low Level Stereo / Mono Input RCA connectors for connection to pre-amp output, Dolby
output or other dedicated sub outputs.
3) Low Level Balanced mono input for connection to dedicated sub output or similar mono out.
4) High Level Input for connection to power amplifier outputs with High Level Lead.
5) Voltage selector switch.
6) Main Power Supply Input – IEC Connector.
- Please do not adjust the Voltage Selector as this may cause damage to the amplifier.
7) Low Level Output RCA for linking stereo signal through to other auxiliary equipment or
another Torus Amplifier.
1 2 3 4 5
6
7
17

CONNECTING UP YOUR TORUS AMPLIFIER
Method 1:
USING HIGH LEVEL TORUS AMPLIFIER INPUT
PLEASE NOTE: It may not be possible or advisable to connect the high level input directly to
an amplifier that has a class D digital output. Please check with the supplier of your amplifier
that this form of connection is possible.
PLEASE ALSO NOTE: The high level lead and connection must not be used with a power
amplifier of dual mono bridged design as this may damage the power amplifier.
The Torus Amplifier can still be connected by the low level input as shown in method 2 if
your power amplifier is unsuitable for high level connection.
It is strongly advised, that the Torus system is installed, by a suitably trained person, to
avoid causing damage or injury resulting from an incorrect installation.
Figure 1. Shows a diagram on how to connect the high level input of the Torus Amplifier. Using
the optional Neutrik lead, connect the Torus Amplifier to the output of your amplifier via your
existing speaker plug or to a spare set of speaker terminals if available. In effect you are Bi-
Wiring your Torus to your power amp. Please note that the Neutrik cable has only three leads
and is arranged this way to preserve the star-earthing of your amplifier (assuming it has a star
earth arrangement).
To connect the high level lead you will need to connect the RED wire to the RED terminal of the
RIGHT hand speaker terminal of your power amp. Connect the YELLOW wire to the Red
terminal of the LEFT hand channel speaker terminal of your power amp. The BLACK wire is
connected to either one of the BLACK speaker terminals of your power amplifier. This is
important as some power amplifiers do not like their black terminals joined. Now plug the neutrik
connector into the high level input of the Torus. The Neutrik plug will fit only one way as it has a
key. Next push the plug in then turn clockwise until you feel it latch. To undo the Neutrik plug,
pull back the silver lever on the Neutrik plug and turn counterclockwise.
Method 1 – To connect to a power amplifier using the High Level Input &
High Level Lead
Neutrik Speakon Interconnect
figure 1.
POWER AMPLIFIER TERMINALS
LEFT RIGHT
RED+ BLACK- RED+ BLACK-
YELLOW RED
BLACK
18

CONNECTING UP YOUR TORUS AMPLIFIER
Method 2:
USING LOW LEVEL TORUS AMPLIFIER INPUT
Figure 2. Shows a diagram of how to connect the low level input of the Torus Amplifier. Using a
pair of RCA to RCA interconnect (not supplied), plug them into the Torus Amplifier low level
input and the other ends into the dedicated sub output on your amplifier or processor. If a
dedicated sub output is not available then you can use a spare set of pre-amp outputs.
If you only have a single sub woofer output socket on your equipment then connect it with just
one of single interconnect. In this instance use the Left input on your Torus Amplifier.
Please Note that high and low level connections can be used at the same time if required.
This gives you the advantage of being able to connect up a Hi-Fi and AV system
simultaneously.
Method 2 - To Connect to a Preamplifier / Pre-Out or Processor
Using the low level input & RCA Interconnects
INTEGRATED AMP / PRE-OUT
RIGHT
LEFT
PROCESSOR
LFE / SUB OUT
Stereo Output To Other
Auxiliary Equipment.
figure 2.
19

Method 2b:
USING BALANCED LOW LEVEL TORUS AMPLIFIER INPUT
Figure 3. Shows a diagram of how to connect the Balanced, low level input of the Torus
Amplifier. Using an XLR to XLR interconnect (not supplied), plug one end into the Torus
Amplifier low level balanced input and the other end into the dedicated sub output on your
amplifier or processor.
The Torus Amplifier low level, balanced input is a mono input. You must ensure that you use a
dedicated sub output or a similar mono output to ensure that bass energy from all channels has
been summed to a mono signal for the Torus Amplifier. This is not relevant when using the high
and low level connections, detailed on the previous pages, as the Torus Amplifier sums the
stereo input to a mono output when using those methods of connection.
Please Note that high and low level connections can be used at the same time if required.
This gives you the advantage of being able to connect up a Hi-Fi and AV system
simultaneously.
Method 2b - To Connect to a Preamplifier / Processor
Using the low level balanced input & XLR Interconnect
PROCESSOR
LFE / SUB OUT
figure 3.
Balanced XLR Interconnect
20

4 5 6 7 8
TORUS AMPLIFIER CONTROLS
AND THEIR FUNCTIONS
1) High Level Input Gain Adjust.
2) High Level Input Frequency Contour to allow integration at the crossover point between the
Torus Infrasonic Generator and main loudspeakers.
3) Low Level Input Gain Adjust.
4) Low Level Input Frequency Contour to allow integration at the crossover point between the
Torus Infrasonic Generator and main loudspeakers.
In the L.F.E. Position the filter is opened wide to allow the optimum performance from
processor built in bass filtering.
5) Continuously Variable Phase Control to adjust the phase of the signal sent to the Torus
Infrasonic Generator.
1 2 3 4 5
6) Power Switch for the Torus Amplifier.
7) High Level Crossover Frequency Read-out.
8) Torus Amplifier Output Level Indicator.
9) Low Level Crossover Frequency Read-out.
6 7 8 9
21

SETTING UP YOUR TORUS AMPLIFIER
Your Torus Amplifier has the unique ability to be connected to both a Hi-Fi system and an A.V.
processor simultaneously, allowing you to control both the frequency and gain of both
inputs independently, two processors in one amp!
• Connect your Torus Amplifier as shown in Figure 1 or Figure 2. Now attach your Torus
Infrasonic Generator to the Torus Amplifier with a good quality loudspeaker cable as shown
on page 27 in the Torus Infrasonic Generator Manual. Plug the Torus Amplifier into your
mains socket using the supplied cable or another suitable IEC power cable. At this point
have the power switch in the off position.
• Now turn both the high level and low level gains to the minimum position, and the frequency
control to 120Hz. If using the subwoofer out from an AV Processor then you may select the
LFE position. Turn the phase control to position 0º.
• Now switch the power on, and play a track that you are familiar with that has bass content
(If you are using both inputs then start by setting the high level input first using an audio CD
then repeat the setting up procedure on the low level input using a film track).
• Adjust the gain control until the level of the bass from your Torus Infrasonic Generator
matches the level from your main system speakers. Now slowly adjust the frequency control
counter clockwise until the output from the subwoofer meets the lowest notes from your
main speakers (the crossover point), you may need to adjust the gain control again to match
your main system speakers. **
• The Torus Amplifier has a fully adjustable phase control to allow time alignment of the Torus
with the main loudspeakers. Listen to the quality of the bass with the phase in the 0 deg
position and then slowly adjust towards the 180 deg position. Choose the position that
subjectively offers the tightest cleanest bass.
• For further adjustment the Torus Amplifier is equipped with a Parametric Equalizer that
allows you to roll off the output below one of four preset frequencies, these are shown on the
next page. We would recommend initially conducting the above steps with the switches set
to “bypass mode”. When you are more familiar with the Torus system, the Parametric
Equalizer can be engaged if you wish to roll off the lowest frequencies that the Torus is to
operate down to. This function should be engaged if you wish to use more than one Torus
system in a stagger-tuned configuration. This is covered on page 34 of the Infrasonic
Generator manual.
Following these setup instructions will get your Torus System up and running, but with a little
extra invested time and experimentation you will be able to fine tune the Torus setup for
seamless integration with the rest of your system.
** If using the Torus with Wilson Benesch floor standing loudspeakers, we would recommend setting the
crossover frequency at between 38-40Hz as a starting point. For Wilson Benesch stand mounted
loudspeakers we would suggest 48-50Hz. **
22

TORUS AMPLIFIER PARAMETRIC EQ. SWITCHING
In addition to the controls detailed above the Torus Amplifier is equipped with a Parametric Equalizer that allows
the output signal to the Torus Infrasonic Generator to be rolled off below one of four preset frequencies. On the
underside of The Torus Amplifier is a set of duel inline switches that will allow you to select which setting you
require for the Torus Amplifier’s Parametric Equalizer, including a setting for bypassing this function altogether.
ESC End D A A S FREQUENCY RESPONSE
I 13.08.10415:10
Input sel.1 Line ±20.00 V
dB dB
50 50
40 40
30 30
20 20
10 10
0
-10 -10
dB dB
50 50
40 40
30
20 20
10 10
0
-10
dB
50
40
30
20
10
0
-10
dB
50
40
30
20
10
0
-10
dB dB
50
40
30
20
10
0 0
-10
3 5 10 20 30 50 100 200 300 500 1K 2K
Input sel.1 Line ±20.00 V
3 5 10 20 30 50 100 200 300 500 1K 2K
3 5 10 20 30 30 50 50 100 100 200 200 300 300 500 500 1K 1K 2K 2K
3 5 10 20 30 50 100 200 300 500 1K 2K
ESC End D A A S FREQUENCY RESPONSE
I 13.08.10415:10
Input sel.1 Line ±20.00 V
MD: NoName
ESC End D A A S FREQUENCY RESPONSE
I 13.08.10415:10
Input sel.1 Line ±20.00 V
MD: NoName
ESC End D A A S FREQUENCY RESPONSE
I 13.08.10415:10
Input sel.1 Line ±20.00 V
MD: NoName
ESC End D A A S FREQUENCY RESPONSE
I 13.08.10415:10
MD: NoName
MD: NoName
3 5 10 20 30 50 100 200 300 500 1K 2K
On
Off
On
Off
On
Off
On
Off
On
Off
15Hz
20Hz
25Hz
30Hz
Bypass
For bypass, switch 4 must be set to the OFF position
and Switch 5 to the ON position. When in bypass
mode switches 1,2,3,6,7 and 8 have no effect.
23

TORUS AMPLIFIER SPECIFICATIONS
Features:-
Independent frequency adjustment and gain controls
Fully adjustable phase control
Discrete Bipolar DC Coupled
Thermal Protection
S/C Protection
Selectable Parametric Equalizer
LED Vu
Specifications:-
Power Output 200W RMS into 8 Ohms
Input Sensitivity:-
High Level 1.0V
Low Level Unbalanced 100mV
Low Level Balanced 300mV
Input Impedence:-
High Level 100K ohm
Low Level 10K ohm
Frequency Adjust:-
High Level 30Hz to 120Hz
Low Level 30Hz to 120Hz then LFE 2.0kHz
Eq 6dB @ 15,20,25 or 30Hz + Over-ride straight through
S/N

The
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Infrasonic
Generator
Owners Manual
© 2009 Wilson Benesch Ltd
25

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR
THE TORUS INFRASONIC GENERATOR
1) Please read these instructions carefully and keep them for future reference.
2) Please heed all warnings.
3) It is strongly advised that the Torus system is installed, by a suitably trained
person, to avoid causing damage or injury resulting from an incorrect
installation.
4) Do not use this apparatus near water or allow it to get wet.
5) The Torus creates a stray static magnetic field. Do not place any object that
may be damaged by this magnetic field (e.g. cathode ray tube televisions or
computer monitors, audio and video tapes and swipe cards) within 0.5m
(2 feet) of the appliance. The appliance may cause distortion of cathode ray
tube images beyond this distance.
6) Do not place Torus Infrasonic Generator on a stand or table; it may fall
causing injury to a child or adult, and damage to the unit. The spikes are
very sharp on the base and should always be mated to the floor surface.
7) Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. If the unit develops a fault
of any sort please refer repair back to your dealer.
8) The Torus Infrasonic Generator is very heavy (34 kilograms). To avoid risk
of injury, please take care when handling.
9) Whenever connecting the Torus Amplifier to the Torus Infrasonic Generator,
ensure that the amplifier is turned off.
10) Do not over-tighten the terminals on the Torus Infrasonic Generator as this
will lead to damage of the polymer terminal mount.
UNPACKING
Caution: The Torus and it’s packaging are very heavy (36KG)
please take care when lifting
The easiest way to unpack the Torus Infrasonic Generator to avoid damage is as follows:
• Open the carton flaps right back and invert the carton and contents.
• Lift the carton away from the product.
• We recommend that you retain the packaging for future use.
In addition to this manual, the carton should contain:
1 Infrasonic Generator
1 Terminal Spanner
1 Pair of terminal link leads
26

CONNECTING YOUR TORUS INFRASONIC GENERATOR
Always switch off your system before disconnecting or connecting any wires.
The following guide will allow you to connect the Torus Infrasonic Generator in standard
configuration. Alternate Torus System configurations for more than one Torus Infrasonic
Generator and/or more than one Torus Amplifier are covered on page 31 of this manual.
First ensure that your system is off before disconnecting or connecting any wires. A good
quality loudspeaker cable that is low in inductance, capacitance and resistance is required to
connect the Torus Infrasonic Generator to the Torus Amplifier. We would recommend a
cable that is terminated with spades, but the Torus terminals also accept banana plugs and
bayonet plugs if required. For the Torus Infrasonic Generator to work at full capacity both
speaker coils must be connected. If the loudspeaker cable to be used is single wired then
the supplied red and black link wires must be employed as shown in figure 4 below. Using
the provided spanner gently nip the nuts tight but DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN AS THIS WILL
LEAD TO DAMAGE OF THE POLYMER TERMINAL MOUNT ITSELF.
Red
Link
Wire
Torus Connections for Single Wired or Bi-Wired Loudspeaker Cable
Torus Infrasonic
Generator Terminal
Torus Infrasonic
Generator Terminal
Black
Link
Wire
Single Wired Loudspeaker Cable
Bi-Wired Loudspeaker Cable
figure 4.
Torus Amplifier Output
Torus Amplifier Output
27

CONNECTING YOUR TORUS INFRASONIC GENERATOR
USING THE TORUS INFRASONIC GENERATOR
WITHOUT THE TORUS AMPLIFIER
To achieve the best results, it is strongly recommended that the Torus Infrasonic Generator is
driven by the Torus Amplifier. It is designed and built for this purpose and offers the user many
controls to help integrate the Torus Infrasonic Generator seamlessly into any two channel
and/or A.V. system. These controls include variable phase adjustment, gain, crossover
frequency adjustment and a parametric E.Q. for rolling off the signal below four preset
frequencies. These controls are detailed on pages 21 and 22 of the Torus Amplifier manual.
When employing one infrasonic Generator, whilst driving it with a standard amplifier may be
possible, without the right signal processing offered by the Torus Amplifier or an A.V. multi
channel amplifier, only bass energy from either the left or right hand channels could be sent to
the Infrasonic Generator which may lead to an imbalance on some program material. Standard
amplifiers will also not provide crossover frequency adjustment controls and this will make the
task of integrating the Torus with your main loudspeakers a much more difficult task.
A multi channel power amplifier, fed by a multi channel preamplifier with a dedicated subwoofer
channel would be the most suitable option in the absence of the dedicated Torus Amplifier. A
suitable multi channel system should mix bass energy from all relevant channels to a mono
signal, to get the best balance between all of the channels. Some multi channel systems may
also offer further options for adjusting the signal sent to the dedicated subwoofer channel.
If you have not purchased the Torus Amplifier, the Torus Infrasonic Generator can be
connected to the terminals of a suitable amplifier in the same way as the Torus Amplifier as
shown in figure 4 on the previous page.
28

POSITIONING YOUR TORUS INFRASONIC GENERATOR
The Torus Infrasonic Generator weighs 34KG so due care must be taken when
positioning the unit. It is advised that the positioning of the Infrasonic Generator is
undertaken by more than one person to avoid injury.
As the Infrasonic Generator produces only low frequency sound, directional concerns are less
important than the room as a whole, which is discussed below.
Room boundaries interact and reinforce low frequency energy. You should see your room as an
extension of your Infrasonic Generator. Output will be reinforced when placed close to any
substantially constructed wall. Simple dry stud wall will have much less of an effect.
The more reinforcement you derive from the room the less energy will be required by the
Infrasonic Generator and therefore the amplifier will not be required to work as hard. Ultimately
there is no substitute for investing time to achieve the ideal marriage of room to Infrasonic
Generator. Live recordings are especially useful for making decisions about placement as they
contain large amounts of ambisonic information that are ideal for assessing if the Generator is
working effectively.
For ultimate phase linearity, especially where music reproduction is the primary goal, the best
position for the Infrasonic Generator is adjacent to the center line of the coils in your
loudspeakers drive units, as shown in figure 5 over the page. However, room effects may act
against this important consideration. With this in mind the diagram in figure 5 below should only
be used as a reference point from which to start. It is important to note that the more the
Infrasonic Generator is displaced from this center line the more you will need to account for
phase differences that will be attributable to this displacement, phase adjustments can be made
using the control detailed on pages 21 and 22 . Only in the most unusual circumstances will it
be found that the best place for the Generator is behind the listening position.
If you are employing more than one Infrasonic Generator, information on setting up and
positioning multiple Torus systems is covered in the next section of this manual.
29

POSITIONING YOUR TORUS INFRASONIC GENERATOR
Should you find that you are experiencing high outputs at particular frequencies there are steps
that can be taken to reduce these. A frequency sweep can be used to explore the room’s
response. In conjunction with a sound meter a measured response can be more accurate but
this should always be compared with listening tests. There are two modes in any one
rectangular room relating directly to the dimensions of the length and width of the room. These
will define the frequency at which the room will be excited. At this point the sound pressure
levels will be highest. However, this is also dependent upon the listening position within the field
and if you move around you will find the levels will change in a predictable way. You will quickly
find that there are also two null points that will be half way between the length of each of the
room’s dimensions. It is this kind of process that enables you to understand the unique
characteristics of your listening room.
A useful technique when looking for the optimum location is to place the Generator at the most
common seating position. By working methodically through a range of frequencies, record the
measurements around the perimeter of the room where the Torus might be located to ascertain
the loudest signal. This process will assist in building up a picture of where the room is
augmenting the output or not. One way of using this information would be to determine three
possible options, the loudest, least loudest and a middle position. This will provide a much
clearer idea of adjusting the generators location over a period of time with listening tests with
music.
Today, there are many sources available on the internet, where you can download frequency
sweep tracks, which can be burnt to a disc or recorded onto your computer and played through
your system. There are Applications for mobile phones available for download to help with this
process also. Please be careful when working with any of these measurement procedures.
Always begin the test with the amplifier in the lowest level of output then increase slowly.
Always progress through the tests with caution and double check volume levels as good
practice. It is very easy to damage the system if care is not exercised at all times.
Left
Channel
Loudspeaker
Torus
Listening
Position
figure 5.
Right
Channel
Loudspeaker
Line running through center of
coils of Torus & loudspeakers
30

TORUS SYSTEM CONFIGURATIONS
USING MORE THAN ONE TORUS
The versatility of the Torus system enables more than one Torus Infrasonic Generator to be
employed, opening up the possibilities and configuration options available to the user.
Using more than one Torus in a single installation can improve the performance in the following
ways:
- Stereo channels can be maintained (If the systems are configured in this manner).
- Higher sound pressure levels can be achieved.
- The effects of low frequency room resonance’s can be more easily smoothed out.
Reading through the following options you will see that there are many more possibilities over
and above the few listed here, should you wish to employ more than one Torus System, the
configurations outlined here will give you an indication of what is possible. A combination of the
following set-ups is something that could be considered.
Two Torus Systems in Stereo Operation:
(High Level lead & Inputs)
Two Torus systems can be employed to maintain stereo left and right channels. The diagram
below shows the high level lead connections required in order for each Torus to reproduce the
bass energy present in the left and the right channels exclusively.
As detailed on page 18 of the Torus Amplifier Manual, the High level method of connection should NOT be
undertaken with bridged mono amplifiers or class D digital amplifiers. It is recommended in this case, that
low level connections should be used as shown over the page.
Torus 1
Left (Channel)
POWER AMPLIFIER TERMINALS
LEFT RIGHT
RED+ BLACK- RED+ BLACK-
YELLOW
Neutrik Speakon Interconnect
BLACK
RED
(Un-Connected)
RED
figure 6.
BLACK
Neutrik Speakon Interconnect
YELLOW
(Un-Connected)
Torus 2
Right (Channel)
31

Two Torus Systems in Stereo Operation:
(Low Level lead & Inputs)
The diagram below shows the low level connections required in order for each Torus to
reproduce the bass energy present in the left and the right channels exclusively.
INTEGRATED AMP / PRE-OUT
RIGHT
LEFT
Into
LEFT
(Mono)
Torus
Amplifier
1 (Left)
figure 7.
Into
LEFT
(Mono)
Torus
Amplifier
2 (Right)
32

Two Torus Systems in Stereo Operation:
(Infrasonic Generator Connections & Positioning)
Both the left and right Torus Infrasonic Generators should be connected with loudspeaker cable,
as detailed on page 27 of this manual, to their respective Torus Amplifiers. This connection is
the same whether using high or low level connections or both.
Each Infrasonic Generator should be positioned next to your respective front left and front right
channel speakers so that they are adjacent to the center line of the coils in your loudspeakers
drive units. The diagram in figure 8 below shows the ideal positioning for two Torus Systems in
stereo configuration, however the effects of the room on the placement of the Infrasonic
Generators should be considered, as discussed on pages 29 and 30 of this manual.
To avoid an imbalance between the left and right hand channels the crossover frequency and
gain levels should be set at the same values on each Torus Amplifier. These controls are
detailed on pages 21 and 22 of the Torus Amplifier manual.
Torus
Left
Channel
Loudspeaker
Listening
Position
figure 8.
Right
Channel
Loudspeaker
Torus
Line running through center of
coils of Torus & loudspeakers
33

Two Torus Systems Stagger Tuned:
(Amplifier Settings)
Using the crossover frequency control on the Torus Amplifier and the Parametric Equalizer on
the underside of the Torus Amplifier, one or more Torus Systems can be setup to operate within
a set frequency range.
This configuration will give a flatter response throughout the bass frequencies, as each system
is setup to work within a more narrow frequency range, putting less demand on the Torus
Amplifier.
There are no hard and fast rules here and experimentation is the key, as the settings that work
best will depend on your room and the equipment that you are partnering the Torus with.
The example in figure 9 below shows the setup for two Torus systems, where the signal crosses
over from the main system loudspeakers at 45Hz to Torus 1 and then crosses over from Torus
1 at 30Hz to Torus 2 which operates all the way down with no frequency roll off selected from
the parametric EQ.
Torus 1
30Hz-45Hz
30Hz
Torus System 2
High & Low Level
Input Crossover
Frequencies
Torus 1
Parametric EQ Switch Settings
Torus System 1
10 Hz 30 Hz
45 Hz
figure 9.
Torus 2
10Hz-30Hz
45 45 30 30
Torus 2
Parametric EQ Switch Settings
Bypass
Main Loudspeakers
High & Low Level
Input Crossover
Frequencies
For bypass, switch 4 must be set to the OFF position
and Switch 5 to the ON position. When in bypass mode
switches 1,2,3,6,7 and 8 have no effect.
34

Two Torus Systems Stagger Tuned:
(Connections & Positioning)
This configuration can be set-up using the High &/Or Low level connections which are detailed
on page 18 of this manual. Both Torus Infrasonic Generators should be connected with
loudspeaker cable, as detailed on page 27 of this manual, to their respective Torus Amplifiers.
Each Infrasonic Generator should be initially positioned next to the respective front left and right
channel speakers so that they are adjacent to the center line of the coils in your loudspeakers
drive units. The diagram below in figure 10 shows this placement, however, this should be
considered a starting point and does not take into consideration the effects your room may have
when placing the Infrasonic Generators in these locations.
Experimentation with the placement of the second of the two Infrasonic Generators may help to
smooth the effects of low frequency room resonance’s, ideally with the aid of a frequency sweep
as detailed on page 29. If the second Torus Infrasonic Generator is moved, the phase control
may need to be adjusted on the second Torus amplifier to compensate and ensure that the
signals are time aligned. The phase control is detailed along with the other amplifier controls on
pages 21 and 22 of the Torus Amplifier manual.
Torus
Left
Channel
Loudspeaker
Listening
Position
figure 10.
Right
Channel
Loudspeaker
Torus
Line running through center of
coils of Torus & loudspeakers
35

Two Torus Infrasonic Generators One Torus Amplifier:
(Speaker Cable Connections)
One Torus Amplifier can be used to power two Torus Infrasonic Generators, when connected as
shown below, the Torus Amplifier will see the same load it would see when connecting just one
Torus Infrasonic Generator. Larger volumes of air can be moved with the addition of another
Torus Infrasonic Generator and the system will achieve greater accuracy as a result. Higher
sound pressure levels can be reached and the placement of two Infrasonic Generators in
different locations can help to smooth out the effects of low frequency room resonance’s.
In this configuration the High and Low level connections are unaffected and remain the same as
detailed on page 18 of the Torus Amplifier manual.
Link
Wire
Torus Infrasonic
Generator 1
Terminal
Single Wired
Loudspeaker Cable 1
Single Wired
Loudspeaker
Cable 2
figure 11.
Torus Infrasonic
Generator 2
Terminal
Torus Amplifier Output
Link
Wire
Two Torus Infrasonic Generators One Torus Amplifier:
(Positioning)
As a starting point each Infrasonic Generator should be positioned next to the respective front
left and right channel speakers, so that they are adjacent to the center-line of the coils in your
loudspeakers drive units. Figure 8 on page 33 shows a diagram of this placement. For further
experimentation, especially when seeking to address the effects of low frequency room
resonance’s, one of the pair of Infrasonic Generators should be auditioned in alternative
locations, ideally with the aid of a frequency sweep as detailed on page 29.
36

TORUS INFRASONIC GENERATOR
SPECIFICATIONS
Frequency Range:-
10 to 150 Hertz –6dB at 18 Hz
Internal Wiring:-
Multi stranded, silver-plated copper PTFE jacketed cable harness
Soldered with lead free solder throughout
Input Connections:-
Bi-wireable, in-house machined Rhodium plated copper alloy terminals
Impedance:-
Coils can be wired in series or parallel.
Each coil is 8 Ohms
Maximum SPL:-
100dB at 1 Metre
Power Handling:-
1000 watt peak program.
Dimensions:-
Height 300mm or 330mm including spikes
Diameter 450mm
Internal Volume 24 Litres
Weight 34Kg
37

Wilson Benesch Ltd
Falcon House
Limestone Cottage Lane
Sheffield
S6 1NJ
UK
England Tel: +44(0) 1142 852656
Fax: +44(0) 1142 852657
Email: info@wilson-benesch.com
Web: www.wilson-benesch.com
38