Friday, July 12, 2013

VUE Audiotechnik Introduces al-8 Compact Line Array System

VUE Audiotechnik Al-8 compact Line array system
San Diego, CA - Following a successful public beta program, as well as a highly-anticipated preview at the InfoComm show last month, VUE Audiotechnik unveiled their new al-8 Compact Line Array System.

Available this fall, the al-8 is the second member of VUE's al-Class, and joins the al-4 Subcompact Line Array System introduced earlier this year. Like its smaller sibling, the al-8 utilizes advanced technologies such as beryllium compression drivers, Kevlar/Neodymium transducers, onboard networking, and full compatibility with VUEPoint beam steering technology to bring unprecedented sound quality, SPL and coverage control to mainstreamsound reinforcement applications.

The al-8 system components include flying, transport and handling accessories, the al-8 acoustic element, and the rack-mount V6 Systems Engine, which provides system amplification, DSP and networking capabilities via the SystemVUE control software.

The al-8 acoustic element houses a pair of proprietary 8-inch LF transducers with large 3-inch voice coils for improved thermal performance. The LF transducers flank four 4-inch Kevlar/Neodymium mid-range units equipped with VUE's unique lateral acoustic shades. High frequencies are delivered by a pair of neodymium compression drivers with Truextent beryllium diaphragms for extended high frequency response beyond 25kHz.

All transducers are housed in a birch plywood enclosure protected by a 12-step Dura-Coat LX finish. Integrated flying hardware allows quick assembly of arrays of up to 16 elements per flybar. Rear panel I/O includes a pair of NL8 connectors configured to allow discrete access to each compression driver.
The 2U rack-mount V6 Systems Engine will tri-amp up to four al-8 acoustic elements. The V6 also houses a 64-bit DSP engine that handles all management functions including speaker protection, system-optimized alignment of EQ, time and crossover, as well as SystemVUE network connectivity.

Al-8 without cover
"The al-8 is a significant step toward offering a complete tool box of solutions that combine class-leading performance, consistent sonic character, and exceptional value," explained Jeff Taylor, VUE's head of North American sales. "Like the al-4, the al-8 demonstrates VUE's commitment to leveraging advanced technologies in order to deliver systems that integrate seamlessly into a broad range of environments, while providing a more effortless and enjoyable user experience overall."


Al-8 Compact Line Array System Highlights:
  • VUE-designed transducers: Each al-8 acoustic element features dual 8-inch LF transducers with large 3-inch voice coils, four 4-inch Kevlar/Neodymium mid-range drivers, and dual 1-inch exit neodymium compression drivers with Truextent® beryllium diaphragms.
  • Companion V6 Systems Engine: Stereo three-way amplifier providing 2400W x 2 LF, 1600W x 2 MF, and 550W x 2 HF (average burst power), as well as 64-bit DSP control via the SystemVUE software.
  • VUEPoint Optimized: The al-8 is fully compatible with VUE's revolutionary VUEPoint beam steering process, which enables consistent SPL and coverage control in any environment.
  • SystemVUE network and software: Utilizes standard IP for easy networking. Simply plug-in and the system will automatically connect in virtually any kind of configuration. SystemVUE software provides individual and group access to all VUE devices, as well as control of device level parameters such as input/output levels, volume, mute, delay and input sources.
Application: Mid-sized to large sound reinforcement applications.

Specifications

Model al-8   8x  al-8 & v6
Description  Compact Line Array Element Compact Line Array System
Acoustic Data

Frequency Response (+-2.5 dB) 75 Hz to 18 kHz 90 Hz to 18k Hz
Frequency Range (-10 dB) 50 Hz – 26 kHz 50 Hz to 26 kHz
Sensitivity (1W/1m) 96 dB SPL 99 dB SPL
Power – Long Term Sine Wave

Before Protection LF: 600 watts rms 1200 watts rms
 Before Protection HF: 56 watts rms 224 watts rms
Power – Burst (6 dB Crest before clip)
LF: 1600 watts rms 2400 watts rms
HF: 280 watts rms 550 watts rms
Max Peak SPL(band limited pink noise 6 dB crest factor) 126 dB SPL 132 dB SPL
Max SPL Long Term (AVG SPL @1M before protection band limited pink noise) 119 dB SPL 125 dB SPL
Coverage Horizontal   90 degrees – 6 dB 90 degrees – 6 dB
Coverage Vertical 10 degrees – 6 dB Dependent on array configuration
Transducer Data

MF Driver Description Two 4-inch drivers, Kevlar cones, isobutylene isoprene rubber surrounds, neodymium magnets
HF Driver Description  Two 1-inch exit 34 mm voice coil Pure Truextent® beryllium diaphragm
Impedance  8 Ohms 4 Ohms net 4x 16 ohms
Physical Data

Rigging: Three-Point rigging system, provides 0, 2°, 4°, 6°, 8° and 10° between array elements.
Connectors Nutric NL8 Speakon In and Loop
Cabinet Material Multi-ply birch hardwood
Cabinet Surface 12 Step Dura-Coat LX
Handles Side recessed & rear Metal
Dimensions (H x W x D) 10.25 x 29.40 x 17.52 in

261 x 747 x 445 mm
Weight 75 lbs 34 kg

Any question? Just comment!

Thursday, July 11, 2013

Hosa Technology Gains ISO 9001:2008 Certification

BUENA PARK, CAHosa Technology, the leading innovator of analog and digital connectivity solutions for the modern musician and audio/video professional, is pleased to announce it has received ISO 9001:2008 certification. As the world’s largest developer of voluntary International Standards, ISO certification helps make industry more efficient and effective. Developed through global consensus, the requirements for certification help to break down barriers to international trade by ensuring the highest corporate standards for products, services, and good practice.

The benchmark for quality management ensures highest levels of customer satisfaction
Hosa Pro-conex snake
Hosa’s ISO project commenced in May 2012 and the company obtained certification on June 20, 2013. As part of the certification procedure, Hosa underwent three stages of external audits to evaluate its core business processes. In each case, the company was found to be compliant to the ISO standard. ISO 9001:2008 sets out the criteria for a quality management system and is the only such standard that can be certified. It can be used by any organization, large or small, regardless of its field of activity. The standard is based on a number of quality management principles including a strong customer focus, the motivation and implication of top management, the process approach, and continual improvement. ISO 9001:2008 is implemented by over one million companies and organizations in over 170 countries.

Hi-Q Hosa cable

BSI Group was the registrar that conducted the audits leading to Hosa’s ISO 9001:2008 certification.
BSI Group, which provides testing and certification of products and services, has grown into a leading global independent business services organization providing
standard-based solutions in more than 140 countries. BSI Client Manager Brian Vaden oversaw Hosa’s ISO 9001:2008 certification process.

Upon receiving certification, Hosa Technology CEO Mayumi Martinez offered the following comments, “Hosa Technology is committed to providing high-quality products that meet or exceed our customers’ expectations through unparalleled value, industry-leading customer service, and continual improvement of our business processes. We are very proud to receive ISO 9001:2008 certification and we genuinely believe that in receiving certification, we ultimately benefit our customers by providing them with the finest products and superior service.”

More about Hosa Technology

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RCF SUB 8004-AS 18” Subwoofer

RCF's SUB 8004-AS is designed to offer ample low frequency with a high power, hyper vented 18” woofer, with 4” inside/outside voice coils. The unit is powered by a 1250W digital amplifier module and its input board includes volume control, deep/punch switch, high pass switch, phase switch, cardioids and time delay controls.

RCF SUB 8004-AS active subwoofer, front and rear panel view

Features
- 2500 Watt
- 136 dB max SPL
- 30 Hz - 120 Hz frequency response
- 18” RCF Precision 4.0 voice coil vented woofer
- DSP controlled Input section with selectable presets
- On board time delay control
- Baltic birch plywood tour grade cabinet

The custom designed 18” woofers feature 4 hyper vented, inside/outside, voice coil for excellent power handling and superior thermal performance. Powered from a digital amplifier integrated to the rear, in a separate chamber and mechanically insulated from vibrations.
  • STACKING the HDL 10-A, up to 4 HDL 10-A can be stacked on top of 2 SUB 8004-AS using the HDL 10-A fly-bar.
  • POLE MOUNTING the SUB 8004-AS is equipped with a M20 rugged insert on top of the cabinet to easily pole mount one NXL 24-A or any two-way RCF speaker.
  • STACKING the NXL 23-A, A dedicated accessory, the “Stacking bar NXL 23-A”, is available to stack up to 4 NXL 23-A on top of 2 SUB 8004-AS
  • STACKING the HDL 20-A, up to 4 HDL 20-A can be stacked on top of 2 SUB 8004-AS using the HDL 20-A fly-bar.
  • STACKING the 2 x NXL 24-A, two NXL 24-A in HF close-coupling configuration can be mounted on top of a SUB 8004 using the accessory “stacking kit 2X NXL 24-A”
  • STACKING the HD 32-A, thanks to the M20 rugged insert on top of the cabinet a HD 32-A can be easily pole mount on SUB 8004-AS.
  • The input section includes Volume control, Signal, Power and Limiter LED’s; Deep / Punch, High pass, Phase and Cardioids switch; Delay control; Xover and XLR signal link The SUB 8004-AS is equipped with two M20 rugged inserts.
  • TWO POSITIONS: The SUB 8004-AS is equipped with feet, rotatable logo and side mounted M20 insert, to be used in vertical or horizontal position.

Applications
• Live sound
• Rental
• Portable PA, clubs, ballrooms, live theatre
• House of worship
• Theme parks
• Music playback and sound reinforcement in small and mid-size venues
• Corporate A/V professionals and sound system hire companies

Specifications 
Acoustical Specifications
  • Frequency Response -3 dB: 30 Hz ÷ 120 Hz
  • Max SPL: 136 dB
  • Woofer: 18", 4.0" v.c.
Input/Output Section
  • Input signal: bal/unbal
  • Input connectors: XLR
  • Output connectors: XLR
  • Input sensitivity: -2 dBu / +4 dBu
Processor Section
  • Crossover frequencies: Selectable 80 Hz - 100 Hz Hz
  • Protections: Thermal, RMS
  • Limiter: Fast limiter
  • Controls: Xover, Phase switch, Deep/Punch, Output Delay Settings, Cardioid
Amplifier Specifications
  • Total power: 2500 W PEAK
  •    Low frequencies: 2500 W PEAK
  • Total power: 1250 W RMS
  •    Low frequencies: 1250 W RMS
  • Cooling: Convection
  • Connections: Powercon in-out
Cabinet
  • Cabinet Material: Baltic Birch
  • Hardware: 2xM20, 4 x wheels mounting points
  • Handles: 4 side
  • Colour: Black
Physical Specifications
  • Height: 700 / 22.56 mm/inch
  • Width: 557.5 / 21.95 mm/inch
  • Depth: 700 / 27.56 mm/inch
  • Net Weight: 51.0 / 112.20 kg/lbs
 Click here to view Sub 8004-AS on Youtube
Get Cad and EASE file from RCF

Any questions? Just comment!

Cerwin-Vega P-Series Powered PA Speakers Make Their Summer NAMM Debut

 
Cerwin-Vega P-Series

NASHVILLE, TN – There’s no shortage of powered PA speakers, but the P-Series from Cerwin-Vega has made DJs, solo acts, ensembles, bands, presenters, and others take notice of the extreme levels of power, bass, and clarity that the P-Series offers.
Cerwin-Vega P1500X fullrange powered speaker front view

More details from (http://www.cerwinvega.com/)
Cerwin-Vega P1500X side view







Massive, tight bass, coupled with crystal-clear sound quality at high levels, delivers the goods for the pros
DJs have particularly demanding requirements, because the sound has to be loud, clean, and have a defined low end that punches through on the dance floor—so it’s noteworthy that DJ Booth.net’s reviewer said “The Cerwin-Vega P1500X powered speakers are probably the best speakers that we have reviewed on DJbooth.net thus far in terms of build quality and overall sound quality.”
P1500X rear panel


But the exemplary sound, punch, and super-durable construction are also welcome for any pro audio application. England’s prestigious Sound on Sound magazine said that “After working with the P-Series for a while, I’m left with an impression of toughness. They are built and perform solidly, and are capable of banging out loud and clear audio all day and night.” And Strother Bullins described the P-Series in Pro Audio Review as “One of the most impressive and unique portable PA systems…it remains my personal benchmark of what to expect from a truly pro-grade portable PA.”

The P-Series family consists of the P1500X (with 1500W peak power, 15" low-frequency driver, 1.75" high-frequency driver, and built-in 3-channel mixer) and the P1800X sub-woofer (with 2000W peak power and 18" low-frequency driver).
Cerwin-Vega P1800SX Active Subwoofer
As Gus Jursch, Acting General Manager for Cerwin-Vega, states “We’re gratified that the P-Series is gaining such rapid acceptance from such a wide variety of users. It confirms that our decision not to cut corners, and instead focus like a laser on uncompromised performance, was what people truly wanted.”
P1800SX rear panel

Experience the Cerwin-Vega P-Series (don’t worry, we won’t turn them up all the way), as well as other exceptional product highlights from Gibson Brands, at booth #1526
Application:
  • Mobile Dj
  • Public speaking engagements
  • Live performances
Have any questions? Just comment!
Specifications:
  • Model: P1500X
  • System Configuration: Active 2-way full-range, bass reflex 
  • Frequency Range (-10 dB): 49.8 Hz – 23.5 kHz
  • Frequency Response (±3 dB): 55.0 Hz – 20.5 kHz 
  • Nomiinal Coverage (-6 dB): 90° Horizontal, 65° Vertical 
  • Maximum SPL(1W @ 1m): 134 dB 
  • Amplifiier Type:  Class D 
  • Amplifier Rating: 1500 Watts Dynamic, 540 Watts Continuous 
  • Low Frequency Driver: 15"
  • High Frequency Driver: 1¾” diaphragm, 1” exit 
  • Connectors:  CH 1&2 - Neutrik™ XLR/TRS inputs, CH3 Dual ¼” TS THRU 1&2 - XLR, MIX XLR 
  • Indicators:  Signal/Clip, Power, Limiter, Protect 
  • Enclosure: Polymer cabinet, flush waveguide
  • Grille: 18 gauge, perforated steel 
  • Mounting  & Suspension: 7.5 degrees down or flat, 35mm pole socket 4 x M10 suspension, 2 x M10 pull-back
  • Operating Temperature: -20° to 55°C
    Weight
    53.0 lbs. (24.0 kg)
    Dimensions (HxWxD)
    27.5" (699mm) x 17.0" (432mm) x 13.5" (343mm)

    • Model: P1800SX
    • System Configuration: Active Subwoofer, bass reflex  
    • Frequency Range (-10 dB): 31.5 Hz – 272.0 Hz
    • Frequency Response (±3 dB): 38.0 Hz – 183.0 Hz
    • Nomiinal Coverage (-6 dB): not applicable
    • Maximum SPL(1W @ 1m): 136 dB 
    • Amplifiier Type:  Class D 
    • Amplifier Rating: 2000 Watts Dynamic, 725 Watts Continuous 
    • Low Frequency Driver: 18"
    • High Frequency Driver: not applicable
    • Connectors:  CH 1&2 - Neutrik™ XLR/TRS inputs, THRU 1&2 - XLR, MIX - XLR 
    • Indicators:  Signal/Clip, Power, Limiter, Protect 
    • Enclosure: 18mm reinforced wood cabinet
    • Grille: 18 gauge, perforated steel 
    • Mounting  & Suspension: 35mm pole socket
    • Operating Temperature: -20° to 55°C 
    Weight
    84.0 lbs. (38.1 kg) with casters, 77.0 lbs. (34.9 kg) without casters
    Dimensions (HxWxD)
    24.25" (616mm) x 20.0" (508mm) x 24.5" (622mm)

Wednesday, July 10, 2013

What is XLR connector?

Fermale and male XLR connector
The XLR connector is a style of electrical connector, primarily found on professional audio, video, and stage lighting equipment. The connectors are circular in design and have between 3 and 7 pins. They are most commonly associated with balanced audio interconnection, including AES3 digital audio, but are also used for lighting control, low-voltage power supplies, and other applications. XLR connectors are available from a number of manufacturers and are covered by an international standard for dimensions, IEC 61076-2-103. They are superficially similar to the older and smaller DIN connector range, but are not physically compatible with them.

1 Chassis ground (cable shield)
2 Positive polarity terminal for balanced audio circuits (aka "hot")
3 Negative polarity terminal for balanced circuits (aka "cold")

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What is the subwoofer?

Audio Knowledge
A subwoofer (or "sub") is a woofer, or a complete loudspeaker, which is dedicated to the reproduction of low-pitched audio frequencies known as bass. The typical frequency range for a subwoofer is about 20–200 Hz for consumer products, below 100 Hz for professional live sound, and below 80 Hz in THX-approved systems. Subwoofers are intended to augment the low frequency range of loudspeakers covering higher frequency bands.

Subwoofers are made up of one or more woofers mounted in a loudspeaker enclosure—often made of wood—capable of withstanding air pressure while resisting deformation. Subwoofer enclosures come in a variety of designs, including bass reflex (with a port or passive radiator in the enclosure), infinite baffle, horn-loaded, and bandpass designs, representing unique tradeoffs with respect to efficiency, bandwidth, size and cost. Passive subwoofers have a subwoofer driver and enclosure and they are powered by an external amplifier. Active subwoofers include a built-in amplifier.


The first subwoofers were developed in the 1960s to add bass response to home stereo systems. Subwoofers came into greater popular consciousness in the 1970s with the introduction of Sensurround in movies such as Earthquake, which produced loud low-frequency sounds through large subwoofers. With the advent of the compact cassette and the compact disc in the 1980s, the easy reproduction of deep and loud bass was no longer limited by the ability of a phonograph record stylus to track a groove, and producers could add more low frequency content to recordings. As well, during the 1990s, DVDs were increasingly recorded with "surround sound" processes that included a Low-frequency effects (LFE) channel, which could be heard using the subwoofer in home theater systems. During the 1990s, subwoofers also became increasingly popular in home stereo systems, custom car audio installations, and in PA systems. By the 2000s, subwoofers became almost universal in sound reinforcement systems in nightclubs and concert venues.

From Wikipedia

What is Line array?

A line array is a loudspeaker system that is made up of a number of usually identical loudspeaker elements mounted in a line and fed in phase, to create a near-line source of sound. The distance between adjacent drivers is close enough that they constructively interfere with each other to send sound waves farther than traditional horn-loaded loudspeakers, and with a more evenly distributed sound output pattern
L-Acoustics V-DOSC/dV-DOSC line array at a concert
.
Line arrays can be oriented in any direction, but their primary use in public address is in vertical arrays which provide a very narrow vertical output pattern useful for focusing sound at audiences without wasting output energy on ceilings or empty air above the audience. A vertical line array displays a normally-wide horizontal pattern useful for supplying sound to the majority of a concert audience. Horizontal line arrays, by contrast, have a very narrow horizontal output pattern and a tall vertical pattern. A row of subwoofers along the front edge of a concert stage can behave as a horizontal line array unless the signal supplied to them is adjusted (delayed, polarized, equalized) to shape the pattern otherwise. Loudspeakers can be designed to be arrayed horizontally without behaving as a horizontal line source.

Modern line arrays use separate drivers for high-, mid- and low-frequency passbands. For the line source to work, the drivers in each passband need to be in a line. Therefore, each enclosure must be designed to rig together closely to form columns composed of high-, mid- and low-frequency speaker drivers. Increasing the number of drivers in each enclosure increases the frequency range and maximum sound pressure level, while adding additional boxes to the array will also lower the frequency in which the array achieves a directional dispersion pattern.

The large format line array has become the standard for large concert venues and outdoor festivals, where such systems can be flown (rigged, suspended) from a structural beam, ground support tower or off a tall A-frame truss tower. Since the enclosures rig together and hang from a single point, they are more convenient to assemble and cable than other methods of arraying loudspeakers. The lower portion of the line array is generally curved backward to increase dispersion at the bottom of the array and allow sound to reach more audience members. Typically, cabinets used in line arrays are trapezoidal, connected by specialized rigging hardware.

What is loudspeaker ?

An inexpensive, low fidelity 3½-inch speaker, typically found in small radios
A loudspeaker (or "speaker") is an electroacoustic transducer that produces sound in response to an electrical audio signal input. Non-electrical loudspeakers were developed as accessories to telephone systems, but electronic amplification by vacuum tube made loudspeakers more generally useful. The most common form of loudspeaker uses a paper cone supporting a voice coil electromagnet acting on a permanent magnet, but many other types exist. Where high fidelity reproduction of sound is required, multiple loudspeakers may be used, each reproducing a part of the audible frequency range. Miniature loudspeakers are found in devices such as radio and TV receivers, and many forms of music players. Larger loudspeaker systems are used for music, sound reinforcement in theatres and concerts, and in public address systems.

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