Electronics / Speakers & Soundbars
User Manual for Tannoy SGM 10A/12A/15A Active Studio Monitor
Quick start guide and user manual for Tannoy SGM 10A, 12A, and 15A active studio monitors. Includes installation, adjustment, and maintenance instructions.
Table of contents
Manual images
Click an image to enlargeQuick Start Guide
The Tannoy SGM series are professional mid-field reference monitors featuring advanced dual concentric drivers for point source operation. This guide provides essential information for installation, adjustment, and maintenance.
Product Overview
The monitors feature a wood panel cabinet and a rear control panel. Key components include:
- Dual Concentric Speaker: The main driver unit.
- Bass Port: Located on the front panel.
- Treble Roll-Off: Boosts or filters frequencies above 5 kHz.
- Treble Energy: Provides a shelving filter to boost or cut frequencies above 1 kHz.
- Presence Energy: Boosts or cuts frequencies between 1 and 5 kHz (SGM 15A only).
- Level Knob: Adjusts volume output. Includes LED indicators for Power (PWR), Signal (SIG), and Overload (LIM).
- Inputs: Supports RCA, 1/4" TRS, and XLR connections.
- Link: XLR male connector for passing input signals.
- Power Source: IEC power cable receptacle with fuse housing.
Installation
For optimal performance, mount the monitors on a rigid structure using the provided self-adhesive foam pads. If arranging in landscape format, apply the pad to the large side; for portrait, use the pre-cut section to match the smaller bottom panel.
Position the monitors so the drive units are toed inwards toward the listening position. The distance between speakers should be 2 to 3 meters. Ensure the console position does not obstruct the direct sound radiation from the drive unit.
Connect your audio source to the rear inputs. Balanced XLR or 1/4" TRS cables are recommended over unbalanced RCA.
Adjustment
Set the LEVEL knob to the center (12:00) position initially. Raise the output from your source while playing audio. If the red LIM LED lights, reduce the source output. Use the Treble Energy and Treble Roll-Off controls to tailor the high-frequency response to your room acoustics. The SGM 15A includes an additional Presence Energy control for fine-tuning the 1-5 kHz range.
Servicing and Maintenance
Cleaning: Use a medium soft brush to remove marks. Warm water and detergent may be used if necessary, but avoid solvents or abrasive cleaners.
Driver Removal: Disconnect all power and signal cables before servicing. Remove the hexagonal bolts to ease the driver from the cabinet. When refitting, ensure wiring is connected correctly to the LF (red/blue) and HF (white/black) terminals.
Fuse Replacement: The fuse is located under the mains input. Always use the correctly rated fuse as indicated on the silk screen printing.
Practical help
Common problems
Red LIM LED lights up
Reduce the output level of your source audio immediately to prevent overload.
Sound is too bright or dull
Adjust the Treble Energy or Presence Energy controls to tailor the high-frequency response.
Buzz or rattle noise
Check the drive unit or amplifier. If the issue persists, the unit may require professional servicing.
Low volume or poor response
Check input connections, especially if using unbalanced outputs, as improper connection can cause signal loss.
Before use
- Inspect each speaker for transit damage upon unpacking.
- Ensure monitors are mounted on a rigid structure.
- Apply provided self-adhesive foam pads to the bottom of the cabinet.
- Position monitors toed inwards toward the listening position.
- Verify input connections (XLR, TRS, or RCA).
- Check mains voltage before connecting the power cord.
Specs in practice
- Treble Energy
- Adjusts HF driver response across the 1 kHz to 20 kHz range.
- Treble Roll-Off
- Filters or boosts frequencies above 5 kHz.
- Presence Energy
- Adjusts frequencies between 1 kHz and 5 kHz (SGM 15A only).
- Input Sensitivity
- XLR: +4 dBu / RCA: -10 dBV nominal.
Images and diagrams
- The rear panel contains the Level knob, Input connectors (XLR/TRS), Link output, and Power switch.
- The XLR/TRS combo jack wiring: Pin 2/Tip is Signal (+), Pin 3/Ring is Signal (-), Pin 1/Screen is Ground.
Model compatibility
- SGM 15A features an additional Presence Energy control not found on the 10A/12A models.
- Supports balanced XLR/TRS and unbalanced RCA inputs.
Manual page author
Michael Turner
Technical manual editor
Reviews PDF manuals for structure, safety notes, and practical product details so readers can find the right information quickly.