The Apogee SX coating process is a state-of-the-art coating system designed for use in limited exposure enclosures such as under shade structures in stadiums or amphitheaters. Apogee SX speakers are not intended for prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, high heat, extreme cold, direct moisture, and high humidity.
A. Cabinet Construction
All SX cabinets
are constructed without the usual handling amenities that are common
in Apogee cabinets. The elimination of the external/integral handles
prevents unwanted water and foreign elements from being trapped inside
the enclosure.
B. Coating
(the coating is applied in a six step process to each loudspeaker cabinet.)
Sealer Coat -
The sealer coat is a moisture resistant alky based long oil
synthetic resin, which imparts dimensional stability by filing all pores
in the wood. This coat is applied on both interior and exterior cabinet
surfaces. Light sanding prepares the surface for the next coating.
Primer Coat (two step process)
The primer coat
is a highbuild, solid aromatic polyurethane. This coating is applied
in two steps that enable the cabinet surface to undergo further sanding
between primer coats and provide a bond for the topcoats.
Top Coat #1 (two step process)
This topcoat
is a high solid, polyester based, UV (Ultra-Violet) stabilized, aliphatic
polyurethane that requires a two step procedure to apply it to the cabinet
surface.
Top Coat #2
The final top
coating is a texturized coating of aliphatic polyurethane that is applied
as a finishing coat, providing a cosmetic enhancement and final seal
against the elements.
C. Water-Resistant Drivers
All of the driver
components are sealed and protected by a proprietary solution that is
formulated to saturate the cone surfaces. This treatment protects the
cones against moisture and insures long-term cone mass stability.
D. Splash Guard Grills
All SX treated
cabinets are fitted with a grill made of expanded steel, coated with
a powder-coat finish to protect against corrosion. Each grill is then
covered with a sonically transparent nylon mesh (.05 mesh size) that
breaks up water droplets and prevents unwanted elements from contacting
the drivers.
E. Weatherized Connector Box
All electrical
connections to the loudspeaker are mounted in a specially fabricated outdoor
junction box. This box is hermetically sealed against moisture, dust or
any unwanted element while allowing the addition of steel or plastic wiring
conduit.