Extending its touring and theatre portfolio, Martin Audio is to launch the high-output XD Series of fixed-dispersion, two-way loudspeaker at the coming Plasa show.

The XD12 and XD15 models claim higher output levels and an extended frequency range over similarly-sized systems and are ‘designed to represent new benchmarks for the compact two-way format’.

Designed principally for live sound, theatre/fixed install and high-power stage monitoring, the XD12 and XD15 combine a full, rich sound and an accurate 80° x 50° dispersion pattern in a compact, multi-angle enclosure suited to a wide range of uses – from distributed sound reinforcement and portable A/V events, to dancefloor and stage monitors.

XD12 features

The XD12 features a high-specification 12-inch (300mm) LF drive unit and a 1-inch (25mm) exit compression driver on a user-rotatable 80° x 50° constant directivity horn. It can be bi-amped as the internal crossover is switchable between passive and bi-amp operation using an external switch.

The LF driver has a lightweight 3-inch (75mm) voice coil and uses a high gap flux neodymium magnet assembly for maximum sensitivity, while the cone is made of a new pulp formulation plus an epoxy treatment to ensure smooth mechanical breakup and a high strength to weight ratio. Flux demodulating rings reduce distortion at high excursions, and advanced cooling reduces power compression to negligible levels. The 1-inch (25mm) exit compression driver has a 1.7-inch (44mm) polyimide dome and ultra-high flux neodymium motor system for maximum efficiency, plus a copper cap to extend the HF response.

The XD12’s grille is a spring-fit into the sides of the enclosure and requires no retention screws, allowing easy removal to access the HF horn. The grille arrangement also means that the baffle and long sides of the enclosure form a continuous surface into which the LF driver and HF horn are flush-mounted to reduce diffraction effects.

The tour-grade plywood enclosure is coated in hardwearing polyurethane and its Declon backed steel grille is pre-curved to resist deformation in the field.

When used in bi-amp mode, or with a subwoofer such as the Wavefront WS18X or WS218X, it is recommended that the XD12 be used with Martin Audio’s DX1.5 or DX2 controller. When operated as a passive system, it may be used without a controller, but will benefit from the DX1.5 or DX2 EQ and limiter functions.

A universal bracket offers a versatile solution for mounting the cabinet, giving quick and easy vertical angle adjustment with a spring loaded locking pin, while the bracket offers other flexible mounting options.

XD15 features

The XD15 offers many of the same design and cosmetic features. It is capable of producing 132dB peak SPL at 1m and has a usable LF response down to 45Hz. Its two-way format combines a 15-inch (380mm)/4-inch (100mm) voice LF drive unit with a 1.4-inch (35mm) exit compression driver on a user-rotatable 80° x 50° horn.

The LF driver uses a high gap flux neodymium magnet assembly to achieve a sensitivity of 100dB @ 1m for 1W input. Advanced cooling and flux demodulating rings combine to reduce power compression and reduce distortion at extreme excursions. In the HF section, the 1.4-inch (35mm) exit compression driver has a 3-inch (75mm) pure titanium diaphragm and ultra-high flux neodymium magnet structure with a copper cap that extends the HF response.

The DX1.5 or DX2 controllers are again recommended when used in bi-amplified mode, or with a subwoofer.

Brackets and yokes

Multi-purpose yokes are available for both the XD12 and XD15, allowing mounting of the enclosures on ceilings, walls, trusses or poles. In vertical (portrait) orientation, the yoke can be fixed directly to a wall or attached to a scaffold clamp for suspension from a truss. When suspended in this way, the enclosure has a natural down-tilt of 20°. In horizontal (landscape) orientation, the yoke can be fixed directly to ceilings or attached to a scaffold clamp.

Purpose-designed Universal brackets – one for the XD12 and one for the XD15 — facilitate a wide range of down-tilt and up-tilt angles in both portrait and landscape orientation. The universal bracket fixes to the top, bottom or side of the enclosure and can be mounting directly onto the pole of a speaker stand or attached to a scaffold clamp for truss mounting. The up/down tilt angle is easily adjustable and lockable in place. Normally the clamp is attached to the centre of the bracket, giving a ±15° range of adjustment. To increase the down-tilt angle, the clamp can be fixed to one end of the bracket for a down-tilt of up to 30°.

For the XD12, a simple rear-mount wall bracket is also available, while the XD15 bracket may be mounted on either the top or bottom of the enclosure to give quick and easy vertical angle adjustments with a spring loaded locking pin.

More: www.martin-audio.com

L-Acoustics' LA amplified controllers provide libraries of presets that combine control of speaker parameters and the application targets of the speaker. A preset allows the loudspeaker to match a given application when arranged in a given configuration, with configurations supporting single distributed to line source array systems

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My first look at audio’s use of tablet computers was derailed by news of Steve Jobs’ death. My second has been derailed by word that the subject is to be ably addressed by Pro Sound News Europe… no point covering the same ground.

But there’s plenty to talk about beyond apps that make an iPad an essential piece of kit for live sound or broadcast. The combined ability of the internet and tablets is causing problems…

Aviom's Pro64 Network Manager PC control application brings centralised control and status monitoring option to the Pro64 personal monitor system.

A graphical interface provides global and device-specific information, allowing on-screen management of audio networks from a single location. Pro64 provides remote control of every device in a network through a PC connected to the network's Control Master device. Network settings and audio parameters for each Pro64 device can be handled onscreen, simplifying channel routing, network management, streamlining the workflow and increasing the flexibility of the network as a whole. Device-level presets can be saved and recalled for commonly used local settings for individual Pro64 modules, as well as network-wide scenes that can reset an entire network with one click of the mouse.

'In designing the Pro64 Network Manager, our goal has been to make the application as intuitive as possible from the user's perspective, building on the inherent strengths of the Pro64 hardware,' says Aviom's Product Research and Development Manager, Ray Legnini. 'The addition of the Pro64 Network Manager application increases the flexibility of the Pro64 Series by giving our users, particularly those with permanently installed Pro64 networks, even more setup options to meet their specific needs.'

Pro64 Network Manager connects to a Pro64 audio network via an RS232 interface and makes use of its built-in Managed Mode to simplify tasks related to supporting and configuring Pro64 networks. All settings can be monitored, including channel activation and routing, internal/external clock source, sample rate, m-control set-up for remote control of Pro64 mic preamps from a Yamaha digital console, Virtual Data Cables, and firmware version. The software further simplifies network and device management by providing location, device and channel naming.

The software is available as a free download from the Aviom website.

More: www.aviom.com

WorxAudio Technologies has upgraded its X2-P Line Array with the adoption of its PXD8080 power amplifier.

The revised the X2-P is a two-way ‘all-in-one’ system designed aimed at at a wide variety of sound reinforcement applications, including small- to medium-sized performance venues and clubs, houses of worship and theatres, as well as meeting and presentation facilities.

The PXD8080 amplifier provides 800W+800W, using a third-generation class-D amplifier with 88 per cent ‘green’ efficiency. Its DSP capabilities offer a 121dB dynamic range and 96kHz sampling rate. It can store up to 99 factory presets that can be easily accessed via the LCD on the amplifier’s face or by its Cat-5 Ethernet port (RJ-45). The PMD8080 has a regulated power supply with a universal voltage range of 88V-170V.

The X2-P Line array incorporates two modules, each with a medium format, 1-inch exit compression driver coupled to a proprietary FlatWave Former (wave shaping device). The compression drivers are paired with dual 8-inch cone transducers coupled to the (AIM) Acoustic Intergrading Module that minimises comb filtering accross its from 45Hz to 20kHz (-10dB)operating.

The X2-P’s throw capabilities claim a ‘dramatic departure’ from line array systems of this size and class. The upper module of the X2-P provides 10° vertical dispersion while the lower delivers a 25° vertical pattern. Combined, the two modules create a 30° vertical system with an unusually broad horizontal dispersion of 150°.

The loudspeaker enclosure is constructed from multi-ply Baltic Birch and is heavily braced for cabinet rigidity. Protecting the enclosure is a multi-layered, two part polyurea ProTex finish – available in black or white – designed to withstand the most demanding applications. A 14-gauge, perforated, cloth-backed, powder coated steel grill with a high transmission ratio protects the transducer complement.

The X2-P ships with custom-designed flyware – the TrueAim grid incorporates a series of holes that control the angle of the suspended enclosure. The system’s Ease Focus aiming software incorporates all the various parameters – including weight, distribution, and rigging points – and provides a single-step Auto Focus process that details the optimum angle to suspend the enclosure at, which is accomplished by setting the TrueAim grid at the recommended hole.

‘The upgraded X2-P is a compact, high performance loudspeaker system that makes a terrific choice for a wide range of sound reinforcement applications,’ says Hugh Sarvis, WorxAudio Technologies’ CEO and Director of Engineering. ‘The system offers a broad coverage pattern and, with the included Ease Focus aiming software and the integrated flyware, makes installation quick and easy. With a clean, unobtrusive appearance that blends seamlessly into a broad range of environments and first-rate components that deliver outstanding audio quality, I’m confident this system – with its new and improved power amplifier – delivers the performance and value today’s SR professionals are looking for.’

The WorxAudio Technologies TrueLine X2-P Install Line Array carries a MSRP of US$6,490 and is available now.

More: www.worxaudio.com

Radial Engineering is calling its StageDirect ‘a unique direct box that combines all of the standard features one would find in a DI with the added convenience of being able to mute the signal using a footswitch for silent on-stage tuning or to quietly switch instruments without having to turn down the PA system or put the stage amp on standby’.

Connections on the StageDirect unit include a quarter-inch input for the instrument, a quarter-inch output for the stage amp, and a standard XLR male output to feed the PA system. A separately buffered quarter-inch tuner output is always on. When the footswitch is depressed, all outputs other than the tuner are muted to enable quiet on-stage tuning. The mute feature also allows switching of instruments on stage without having to turn down a PA channel or stage amp.

Top panel switches include a -15dB pad to handle extra high output instruments, a high-pass filter to eliminate excessive bass and resonance, and a 180° polarity reverse to help tame acoustic hot spots on stage that can cause feedback.

‘As a gigging bassist, I was immediately struck with the StageDirect and how I could see it solving a number of problems on stage,’ says Radial Eastern Regional Sales Manager, Phil Coelho. ‘The obvious one is being able to quietly tune without having your signal feed into the PA system.  As an audience member, hearing the band tune up can be really annoying. But for me, the real biggie is being able to switch from my four-string passive bass to my five-string active without having to put my amp on standby and frantically wave to the FOH engineer to let him know I am about to switch basses. All too often, he forgets to turn me down and then you get a huge pop in the PA. The StageDirect solves the problem as it gives me the freedom to decide when I want to change instruments."

As with all Radial direct boxes, the StageDirect is made from 14 gauge steel and finished in baked enamel for maximum durability.

More: www.radialeng.com

Soundcraft has unveiled the Soundcraft Si Expression digital console range, targetting gigging bands, performance venues, installations and tours, corporate A/V and theatres, houses of worship and education facilities.

Available in three frame sizes, the line comprises the Si Expression 1, 2 and 3, offering 16-, 24- and 32-fader and mic inputs respectively. All models are capable of supporting up to 66 inputs to mix by connecting any Soundcraft stagebox, including the two new Mini Stagebox 16 and 32 (16 x 8 and 32 x 16) models (being launched concurrently) or by connecting additional inputs over Madi or AES/EBU.

All external inputs are additional to the connections on the desk itself.

The Si Expression range incorporates processing from other Harman marques BSS, dbx, Lexicon and Studer, and offers a colour touchscreen, iPad ViSi Remote control and Soundcraft FaderGlow, adopted from Soundcraft’s Vi Series large format flagship consoles.

A powerful DSP engine provides four-band parametric EQ, delays, gates and compressors on every input, parametric and 30-band graphic EQ, compressors and delays on all outputs, as well as four Lexicon stereo effects devices, all capable of being used at the same time. Fader layers allow inputs and outputs to be assigned anywhere on any layer. Soundcraft ViSi Remote allows remote control of the console from an iPad.

‘The Si Expression is based on new technology bridging the current Si Compact and Si Performer ranges and meets a totally new price point for Soundcraft making this product highly attractive to those looking for a professional console, at a budget price,’ says Andy Trott, Soundcraft and Studer Vice President and General Manager. ‘Other companies will continue to produce “cheap” mixers, we make professional, high-quality, easy to use mixers in the same price range – which makes the customer’s decision easier.’

The consoles also support a wide range of networking and option cards, the most recent of which is the BSS Blu Link card, also launched today enabling simple and automatic connection to the dbx PMC16 Personal Monitoring System.

The Soundcraft Si Expression Series ships in Q1 2013, with a prices to be confirmed.

More: www.soundcraft.com

How does LCR panning differ from stereo, and why would you want to choose LCR panning? (Soundcraft)

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Following the 2011 launch of it X3 horizontal array system, EM Acoustics, has introduced the X3-DF dedicated downfill enclosure.

The X3 horn-loaded PA system (which forms part of the company’s Touring Series) is designed to offer predictable horizontal coverage in any application, particularly those where high SPL is required. Each element is capable of delivering frequencies in excess of the actual operating band, to ensure smooth crossovers between drive units. The X3-DF dedicated downfill enclosure completes the X3 system, adding additional vertical coverage options for flown arrays.

The X3-DF uses the same midrange and high-frequency sections as the X3, in an angled enclosure designed to mount underneath X3 arrays. An intuitive rigging system attaches the X3-DF to the underside of the X3, allowing complete flown arrays to be swiftly assembled. The X3-DF also includes a similar drive unit test system to the X3, giving a visual indication of a malfunction in any of the drive units at the touch of a button.

For maximum flexibility, EM Acoustics has also developed self-powered versions of X3 and X3-DF. Both enclosures use multiple-channel class-D amplifier modules with onboard DSP and remote network capacity.

See also:
EM Acoustics X3 horizontal array

More: www.emacoustics.co.uk

EAW has introduced the SUB.two – the first subwoofer system in its Avalon by EAW line of danceclub loudspeaker systems.

The manufacturer claims the new loudspeaker ‘represents a completely new technology platform for the subwoofer genre in a generation’. Calling it Hybrid Subwoofer Technology, the design combines dual 12-inch bass horn-loaded and single 21-inch direct radiating cone drivers to give a response down to 20Hz.

‘Like every product in the Avalon by EAW line, SUB.two is a radical departure from existing systems, and will totally transform the discussion of what a subwoofer can be,’ says EAW President, Jeff Rocha.

The Avalon by EAW line was co-designed by dance club designer/owner John Lyons, whose Avalon Hollywood club is a favourite performance venue for world-class DJs. Lyons worked with EAW in the late 1990s to produce the original line of Avalon loudspeakers, which sold worldwide. Lyons then initiated the renewal of the line in 2011, and has played an active role throughout.

According to the company, Lyons demands an extraordinarily high level of performance from loudspeaker systems, repeatedly asking for revisions and improvements. ‘Working with John Lyons takes us to a new level,’ says Rocha, ‘He’s never satisfied and always tries to take that next step. It puts our ingenuity to the test, but when we dig down for that “something extra”, it’s always there.’

More: www.eaw.com