Electronics / Speakers & Soundbars
Operating Manual for FBT Shadow Series All-Weather Speakers
Quick guide for FBT Shadow series speakers (108CT, 112CT, 112HC/HCT, 114S/ST). Includes installation instructions, wiring diagrams for constant voltage/impedance systems, and safety guidelines.
Table of contents
Manual images
Click an image to enlargeQuick guide from the manual
The FBT Shadow series speakers are designed for both indoor and outdoor use, featuring an IP55 rating for protection against dust and water jets. This manual covers the installation, wiring, and configuration of the 108CT, 112CT, 112HC/HCT, and 114S/ST models. Always ensure the amplifier is turned off before making any connections to prevent electrical shock. For outdoor installations, ensure all wiring is housed in watertight protective boxes.
Description
The Shadow series features a polyethylene enclosure resistant to UV rays. The curved design reduces acoustic reflections and standing waves inside the box, improving low-frequency performance. The protective grid consists of three layers: an external stainless steel perforated part, a central layer of cross-linked foam, and a special waterproof polyester mesh.
Installation
Speakers must be installed using original FBT mounting accessories. The wall structure must be adequate to support the weight of the speaker. Important: Always use a secondary safety cable attached to the M8 insert on the rear of the speaker when wall-mounting. To maintain the IP55 rating, the speaker must be angled at least 15 degrees downwards.
Rotatable Horn (112HC Model)
The SHADOW 112HC model features an asymmetrical dispersion rotatable horn, allowing for both vertical and horizontal installation. To rotate the horn, remove the front panel screws, rotate the horn assembly to the desired orientation, and re-secure the panel.
Connections
The speakers support two types of connection systems:
- Constant Voltage (100V): Each speaker is equipped with a line transformer. Connect the "common" (black) conductor to the amplifier's "-" terminal. Choose the blue (full power) or brown (half power) conductor for the 100V line. Never use the red conductor.
- Constant Impedance (8 Ohm): Connect the "common" (black) conductor to the amplifier's "-" terminal and the red (8 Ohm) conductor to the "+" terminal. Do not connect these inputs to a 100V line.
Manufacturer information
FBT Elettronica SpA
Practical help
Common problems
Speaker not producing sound
Verify all connections are secure and that the amplifier is compatible with the speaker's impedance or voltage requirements. Ensure the amplifier is not in protection mode.
Humming or noise interference
Do not run speaker lines alongside power lines, microphone cables, or low-level signal cables.
Water ingress or damage
Ensure the speaker is installed with at least a 15-degree downward angle to maintain the IP55 rating and prevent water stagnation.
Before use
- Verify the amplifier output matches the speaker's configuration (100V or 8 Ohm).
- Ensure the wall structure can support the speaker's weight.
- Use only original FBT mounting brackets.
- Check for short circuits before powering on the system.
- Install a secondary safety cable for all wall-mounted units.
Images and diagrams
- Wall Bracket: Shows mounting points A, B, C and safety point D.
- Rotatable Horn: Illustrates the steps to rotate the horn on 112HC models.
- Wiring: Diagrams for 100V constant voltage and 8 Ohm constant impedance connections.
Model compatibility
- Only use FBT original mounting brackets to avoid instability.
- Do not connect 8 Ohm inputs to 100V lines.
- The 112HC model allows for horn rotation for vertical or horizontal orientation.
Manual page author
David Miller
Documentation analyst
Organizes user manual content into clear summaries, with attention to model details, product context, and everyday usability.