FBT SHADOW Series All Weather Speakers Manual
Comprehensive operating manual for FBT SHADOW series all-weather speakers (108CT, 112CT, 112HC/HCT, 114S/ST), covering installation, safety, and connection guidelines.
Table of contents
Manual images
Jump to the sectionProduct Overview
The FBT SHADOW series speakers are professional-grade audio solutions engineered for both indoor and outdoor applications. Featuring a robust polyethylene enclosure, these speakers are designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, boasting an IP55 protection rating against dust and water ingress. The unique curved design of the cabinet minimizes internal standing waves and acoustic reflections, which significantly enhances low-frequency performance while preventing water accumulation and reducing wind diffraction.
Safety and Protection
Safety is paramount when installing high-power audio equipment. The SHADOW series speakers must be installed by qualified personnel in accordance with local safety regulations. Never connect the speakers while the line is powered, as high-voltage lines (e.g., 100V) pose a serious electrocution risk. If smoke or unusual odors are detected, immediately disconnect the unit from the power source. Always use original FBT mounting accessories; using unauthorized brackets can lead to dangerous instability and potential injury. The speakers are equipped with secondary safety anchoring points, and it is highly recommended to use a safety cable for all overhead installations.
Installation Guidelines
Proper installation is critical for both performance and safety. The speakers should be mounted using the dedicated FBT wall brackets. When selecting an installation site, ensure the structure can support the weight of the speaker and the mounting hardware. For IP55 compliance, the speaker must be angled at least 15 degrees downwards. The SHADOW 112HC model features a rotatable horn, allowing for flexible vertical or horizontal orientation to suit specific acoustic requirements.

Connections and Wiring
The SHADOW series supports both constant voltage (100V/70V) and constant impedance (8 Ohm) systems. For constant voltage lines, ensure the total power of the speakers does not exceed the amplifier's output capacity. Always respect phase polarity when connecting multiple speakers in parallel. For outdoor installations, all electrical connections must be housed in watertight junction boxes to maintain the IP55 rating. Never connect low-impedance (8 Ohm) inputs to a 100V constant voltage line, as this will cause permanent damage to the equipment.

Maintenance and Disposal
Regular inspections are necessary for fixed installations to ensure all mounting hardware remains secure over time. The protective grille is constructed from three layers, including a perforated stainless steel outer layer, a central reticulated foam layer, and a waterproof polyester mesh, ensuring extreme water resistance. At the end of its service life, the product must be disposed of according to local environmental regulations for electronic waste, ensuring it is sent to a suitable recycling facility.
Manufacturer information
FBT Elettronica SpA
Practical help
Common problems
Ensure speaker lines are not routed alongside electrical power cables or low-level signal lines.
Immediately disconnect the speaker from the power line and contact qualified technical support.
Use only original FBT mounting brackets; ensure all fixing holes are utilized and the structure is load-bearing.
Before use
- Verify the amplifier output voltage matches the speaker's input requirements.
- Ensure all connections are secure and free of short circuits.
- Check that the mounting structure can support the speaker's weight.
- Confirm the speaker is angled at least 15 degrees downwards for IP55 protection.
- Install a secondary safety cable for overhead mounting.
- Use watertight junction boxes for outdoor wiring.
Images and diagrams
- The U-bracket installation diagram shows the primary mounting points (A, B, C) and the secondary safety anchoring point (D).
- Connection diagrams illustrate the difference between constant voltage (parallel) and constant impedance (series/parallel) wiring.
- The rotatable horn diagram demonstrates the steps to disassemble the front grille and rotate the horn assembly for 112HC models.
Model compatibility
- Only use FBT-certified mounting accessories for all SHADOW models.
- Do not connect 8 Ohm speakers to 100V constant voltage lines.
- Ensure amplifier power matches the speaker's long-term power rating.
Manual page author
David Miller
Documentation analyst
Organizes user manual content into clear summaries, with attention to model details, product context, and everyday usability.