FAQ
Common questions about setup, operation, and getting the most out of your Ex Machina monitors. If your question is not here, submit a support ticket and we will get back to you directly.
You need a balanced XLR connection from your audio interface or console, and power. If you purchased a Terra+Gravity system or Selene, Selene+Poseidon systems, you will need additional 4-Pole speak-on speaker cables to connect the Gravity subwoofers to Terra and the Selene and Poseidon units to the included EXCore module. Full setup instructions are in the manuals you can find in the manuals section of the site under Support.
Terra and EXCore units accept balanced analog XLR, AES XLR and Ethernet (for Dante Option add-on), on the rear panel inputs. Unbalanced connections are not recommended and may introduce noise.
Our low frequency drivers are specifically designed to maintain linear behavior across excursion from the start, which is the same characteristic that makes burn-in less relevant or unnecessary. If you want peace of mind, a short 20 hour burn in period would likely be all you need. It won't hurt anything, but it's not really necessary.
Terra and Selene use coaxial drivers with a 90x90 degree coverage pattern. That changes the placement rules. You do not need to aim the tweeters directly at your ears, and the standard equilateral triangle is not a requirement. For most near-field and mid-field setups, 15 degrees of toe-in or less is sufficient. If your speakers are unusually wide apart, increase toe-in accordingly. Avoid placing Terra flush against a wall or in corners without acoustic treatment. Detailed placement guidance is in the manual, and the Houston software boundary EQ settings can compensate for some room placement constraints.
You can scan the QR code in that was included with your speakers to access the WiFi setup mode. Once configured, you'll be able to access the Houston software interface to make further adjustments.
No, your speakers will work without connecting to the Houston software, however you will not be able to change any settings on the speakers, such as latency control, mute, polarity invert, input controls or any other settings of the Terra or EXCore.
No, during the initial setup process, you can select "Use AP Mode" which will allow you to access the Houston software without connecting to a local WiFI network. However, you will only be able to access one Terra or EXCore unit at a time and you will not be able to update software, firmware, or DSP calibration files without configuring your Terra or EXCore to a working WiFi connection. You can also switch to "AP Only Mode", if you've already connected a Terra or EXCore unit to your local WiFi network.
EXCore is Ex Machina's integrated DSP and amplifier module. It handles active crossover filtering, time domain correction, frequency response linearization, and driver protection. Every Selene and Selene+Poseidon set ships with an EXCore unit. ExCore's do not ship with Poseidon add-ons or Gravity Subwoofers.
Yes. Updates are distributed through the Houston software web application. You'll need to download software updates (firmware, DSP calibration files and software updates) through the Houston app. We recommend updating before critical sessions, not during active projects, as calibration profiles may update alongside firmware.
No.
First check the level trim controls in the software interface of each unit and confirm they are set identically. There is a reset button if you're unsure. Next confirm your audio interface output is balanced and the cables are identical. If the imbalance persists after those checks, submit a support ticket with your serial numbers and a description of the difference.
Ground loop hum is the most common cause. First remove the XLR cable from the speaker or speakers you're hearing the buzz in, if you don't hear any buzz, the issue is not the speaker and exists elsewhere in your signal path, regardless of whether or not other speakers you may own don't exhibit the same behavior. Try plugging both monitors and your audio interface into the same power strip or conditioner. Confirm all signal cables are balanced. If you still can't resolve the issue, using something like a Radial Twin Iso or 2 Radial Ice Cube isolators would do the trick. If the hum is present with nothing connected to the XLR inputs of the speakers, submit a support ticket.
Ex Machina monitors are covered against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of two years from the date of purchase (6 Years if you Register your speakers). This covers driver failure, amplifier faults, DSP issues, and manufacturing defects under normal use conditions. Warranty does not cover physical damage, water damage, unauthorized modification, or damage resulting from use outside rated operating parameters.
Registration is strongly recommended. It extends your warranty from 2 years to 6 years and makes warranty claims faster and easier to process.
Submit a support ticket at the support page. Select an issue type from the drop down and describe the fault, be as descriptive as possible, with what troubleshooting steps you've taken. Include photos or video if you can. We will respond within one business day with next steps.
Yes. We arrange demo sessions at our Brooklyn facility and through dealers and demo spaces in Los Angeles and Nashville. As well as internationally through our growing dealer network. Request a demo on the contact page.
Yes, through our authorized international dealer network. Direct international purchases are not available through the online shop. Visit the Dealers page to find your nearest authorized dealer.
Demo units can be arranged if you are outside of NYC, Nashville or Los Angeles area or don't have a preferred dealer. Contact us through the demo request form to discuss your situation.