Portable PAs
Jul 22, 2013 3:18 PM,
By Mark Johnson
Alto TS115 Vibe
Portable PA systems literally come in all shapes and sizes. Many have multi-angle, asymmetrical cabinets, so they can double as floor monitors. Some include onboard amplification and DSP for efficient set up and operation. These systems often offer multiple ways to mount and rig including the ubiquitous pole-mount socket and integrated rigging points. And some speakers feature rotatable horns that can be used at any angle or orientation. There’s no shortage of manufacturers for this market segment, so we’ll get right to it.
The LX10 comes from Canadian manufacturer Adamson and features a frequency response of 55Hz to 18kHz from a passively crossed over 10in. AX10 low-frequency driver and a 1in. compression high-frequency driver mounted on a patented Adamson Acoustic waveguide. The coverage is 70 degrees by 50 degrees, and the maximum SPL is 121.1dB. The speaker features an integral pole mount.
The AltoTS115 Vibe is an active loudspeaker system incorporating an 800W Class D power amplifier driving a 15in. low-frequency driver and 1in. neodymium high-frequency driver. The speaker features an onboard solid-state media player. The system is compatible with MP3, WMA, and AAC files, which can load into the media player or play directly from a USB drive or a microSD card.
American Audio’s ELS15A comprises Class A/B bi-amplifiers, a titanium high-frequency driver, and a 15in. low-frequency driver. The speaker also features XLR and RCA line inputs, and XLR and TRS mic inputs, along with input gain control and two band EQ. The ELSA15A incorporates nine fly points and can be stand-mounted, as well. The total weight is 39.5lbs.
The Anchor Audio Beacon is a battery-powered, portable line array tower with eight 4in. woofers and a base with three 8in. woofers powered by a proprietary Class D amplifier. The system features single or dual built-in UHF wireless with 16 user-selectable channels, optional built-in MP3 player that accepts an SD card, USB flash drive, or 3.5mm input for an iPod. The system will operate six to eight hours on a charge.
Bose L1 model II
The BoseL1 Model II System with ToneMatch port comes with the L1 model II power stand, the L1 model II cylindrical radiator, and the B1 bass module. The optional T1 ToneMatch audio engine provides DSP, additional inputs, and user-interface control. The power stand can drive up to two B1 bass modules (available as additional options), and the accessory PackLite power amplifier can drive up to two additional B1 bass modules.
The PowerPro SD Model PA919SD from Califone is a 16-channel wireless system that can support multiple powered companion speakers via the built-in wireless transmitter. The system includes an SD card slot and USB 2.0 port for playback and recording, two wireless mic receivers, and an onboard CD player. The system also provides two combo XLP/1/4in. mic inputs and AC/DC power supply.
Cerwin Vega brings the self-powered, bi-amplified P1500X to the table (or pole mount). The system comprises a 15in. woofer and a high-frequency compression driver mounted on a proprietary hemi-conical horn, which provides 90 degree horizontal and 65 degree vertical coverage. The frequency response is 55Hz to 20.5kHz, and the maximum SPL is 134dB. The speaker features an angle adjustable pole-mount socket, threaded M10 suspension points, and an onboard three input mixer.
Community SLS920
Community’s SLS920 is a three-way electronically controlled loudspeaker system. The speaker can be used in passive mode or bi-amplified. Two 8in. low-frequency drivers, one M200 2in. mid-frequency driver, and one VHP100 1in. high-frequency driver provide a frequency response of 95Hz to 18kHz with a maximum peak SPL of 137dB. Mounting and rigging provisions include 3/8-16 rigging points and 5/16-18 inserts for stand adapter or mounting bracket.
Portable PAs
Jul 22, 2013 3:18 PM,
By Mark Johnson
D.A.S Audio Artec 510A
The D.A.S. AudioArtec 510A incorporates a 10in. low-frequency driver and a 1in. exit titanium-diaphragm high driver driven by a 720W peak Class D bi-amplifier. Peak SPL at 3.28ft. is 121.5dB, and the frequency response is 45Hz to 20kHz. Coverage is 110 degrees by 50 degrees. The birch plywood enclosure comes in black or white, and includes a pole-mount socket.
The Black Line series from db Technologies features six models including the 915BL, which offers a 900W digipro G2 Class D amplifier. The frequency response is 48Hz to 20,000Hz with a maximum SPL of 131dB from a 15in. low-frequency driver and a 1in. compression driver mounted to an asymmetrical constant directivity horn. Coverage is 80/65 degrees by 60 degrees.
From EAW comes the JF59NT two-way, self-powered loudspeaker. The system provides a 90-degree by 45-degree coverage, and a frequency response of 47Hz to 20kHz. It offers a calculated peak output of 13dB from a 15in. cone low-frequency driver and a 1.4in. exit, 3in. voice coil, horn-loaded compression driver. EAW Pilot provides control of software-accessible DSP. Power is via modified Class D amplification.
Electro-Voice ZLX-15P
The ZLX-15P two-way powered loudspeaker from Electro-Voice features an LCD display and one-knob DSP control with presets. The 1,000W Class D amplifier provides a maximum SPL of 127dB, powering a 15in. low-frequency and a 1in. high-frequency titanium compression driver. The system features input level meters and independent amplifier control. Coverage is 90 degrees by 60 degrees.
Galaxy Audio Core 15
The Core 15 from Galaxy Audio incorporates a 15in. woofer, and a 1in. high-frequency compression driver mounted to a constant directivity asymmetrical, rotatable horn. Coverage is 100/50 degrees by 55 degrees. The horn can rotate in 90 degees increments. The frequency response is 55Hz to 18kHz. The cabinet includes 20 M8 threaded suspension points and a pole-mount socket.
JBL STX815M
JBL’s STX815M is a two-way stage monitor/utility speaker. The rated maximum peak SPL is 131dB, and the frequency response if 55Hz to 20kHz. Coverage is 70 degree by 70 degree. Operational modes include full range and bi-amp via a switch on the input plate. The enclosure is fitted with 12 M10 rigging points and a 35mm pole socket. Low frequencies are provided by a JBL 2226H 15in. woofer, and a 2432H 3in. voice coil neodymium compression driver provides the highs.
HK Audio Lucas Nano 300
The Lucas Nano 300 from HK Audio is a self-contained system comprising two satellite speakers and a compact subwoofer, with a 3-channel Class D power amplifier. I/O features a mono mic/line input, a stereo instrument/line input, and a stereo 3.5mm or RCA input, each with contour EQ adjustment. Output includes a sub level control, balance control, out L/R, and link in/out.
Portable PAs
Jul 22, 2013 3:18 PM,
By Mark Johnson
L-Acoustics 12XTi
The 12XTi from L-Acoustics features a coaxially loaded 3in. diaphragm compression high driver by a 12in. low-frequency transducer, which provides 90-degree axisymmetric coverage. The frequency response is 55Hz to 20kHz with a maximum SPL of 133dB. The wedge-shaped cabinet provides for a 30- or 60-degree angle for application as a stage monitor.
The StageSource L3t from Line 6 is a three-way, tri-amped loudspeaker incorporating six DSP Smart Speaker modes and an internal accelerometer. Optical sensors detect setup configuration and then automatically adjust performance parameters for the system. The system uses dual 10in. woofers and a 1in. exit high-frequency compression driver for 132dB maximum SPL and 100-degree x 50-deree coverage.
Mackie DLM12
Mackie’s diminutive DLM12 comprises a 12in. low-frequency driver and a 1.75in. compression high-frequency driver. It features an integrated digital mixer with OLED screen, two inputs, three band EQ, 16 effects, and six speaker modes. The system can be pole-mounted, rigged via the M10 hardware, wall-mounted with an accessory articulated arm, or used as a monitor with the integrated kickstand. Frequency response is 38Hz to 20kHz, and maximum SPL is 128dB.
Martin Audio Blackline X15+
Martin Audio features the Blackline X15+ is a two-way system incorporating a 15in. low-frequency driver and a 1.4in. exit compression driver mounted on a rotatable 80-degree by 50-degree constant directivity horn. Switchable to either passive or bi-amp operation, the maximum peak SPL is 133dB, and the frequency response is 55Hz to 18kHz. The system may be rigged via 15 M8 threaded inserts or mounted using the 35mm pole-mount socket.
Meyer UPQ-1P
The Meyer Sound wide-coverage UPQ-1P provides 100-degree by 60-degree coverage and an operating frequency range of 55Hz to 18kHz with a maximum SPL of 136dB. The low-frequency section comprises a 15in. driver, and the highs use a 4in. diaphragm compression driver. The two-channel complementary MOSFET Class AB/H amplifier provides a total of 2,550W peak output.
Mipro’s MA-303 personal wireless PA system comes in two versions: with either one or two wireless receivers. Other features common to both include a 5in. woofer and 1in. tweeter driven by a Class D amplifier; two power modes, either AC or rechargeable battery with up to 11 hours of standby time with a four-hour charge; built-in USB music player and recorder; line input; and mic input. The wireless receivers feature 16 preset scannable frequencies and one-touch scan and ACT sync.
The J-15M from Nady Systems offers 30-degree or 45-degree placement angles for use as a floor monitor, a 90-degree angle for placement on a shelf, and stand-mounted or upright for FOH applications. The 15in. low-frequency and 1in. titanium high-frequency drivers provide a frequency response of 30Hz to 20kHz with a coverage of 125 degrees.
Portable PAs
Jul 22, 2013 3:18 PM,
By Mark Johnson
QSC K12
Peavey’s Escort 3000 is a complete PA system including a 7-channel mixer and stands. The two-way speakers utilize a 10in. low-frequency driver, and the mixer has six combo XLR/1/4in. inputs, as well as RCA and 3.5mm TRS connectors. USB MP3 playback is also provided. The mixer features an LCD screen to aid navigation for file playback and effect selection.
The QSCK12 multi-purpose, two-way loudspeaker is equally at home as a main-house or stage-monitor speaker. It integrates 1,000W Class D amplification and a 12in. low-frequency transducer. A 1.75in. diaphragm compression high-driver provides a maximum peak SPL of 131dB and a frequency response of 52Hz to 20kHz. The coverage is 75 degrees conical. Mic and line inputs are combo XLR/ 1/4in. TRS with an additional set of RCA inputs. The speaker is equipped with 35mm Tilt-Direct pole sockets and M10 rigging points.
RCF TT1-1A
The RCFTT-1A active, compact, high-fidelity speaker comprises a 10in. hyper-vented woofer and a 3in. titanium dome compression driver driven by 550W and 250W digital amplifiers, respectively. Coverage is 90 degrees by 60 degrees. The operating frequency range is 55Hz to 20,000Hz, and the maximum SPL is 131dB. The system features operational presets and optional RDNet control and monitoring.
Renkus-Heinz RH153
The RH Signature Series is a build-to-order system from Renkus-Heinz, which features a dual-wedge angle design with screw thread points and a range of mounting hardware. Self-powered versions provide operating presets. The RH153 comprises a 15in. low-frequency driver and Renkus-Heinz’s new CDT3 mid/high frequency co-entrant driver.
Samson D415 Auro
The SamsonAuro D415 Compact, lightweight, two-way active loudspeaker system comprises a 15in. low-frequency driver and a 1.34in. compression driver with 1in. exit. The frequency response is 55Hz to 20kHz, and the coverage is 90 degrees by 60 degrees. The polypropylene enclosure provides 30-degree and 45-degree angles for use as a floor monitor. The speaker features Optimax optical compressor/limiter for protection.
Sennheiser LSP 500
The iPad-controlled LSP 500 Pro from Sennheiser features three wireless receiver slots, built-in USB player/recorder, Bluetooth music streaming, and Wi-Fi wireless connectivity for controlling multiple speakers in a distributed system. Accessories include white stretch fabric covers for use when appearance is a concern, ballistic nylon covers for outdoor use and transport, and padded tour trolleys.
Tannoy’s VXP 12-2Q features a rotatable, 12in. PowerDual point source transducer with Q-Centric waveguide and a 12in. bass driver. The system is mated with a Lab.gruppen IDEEA Class D amplifier module and provides a peak SPL of 131dB with a frequency response of 60Hz to 25kHz. The coverage is 75 degrees by 40 degrees. Eight M10 inserts are integrated into the enclosure for rigging.
Turbosound TCX-12
The TCX-12 passive two-way loudspeaker from Turbosound comprises a 12in. low-frequency driver and a 1in. high-frequency driver mounted on a rotatable Converging Elliptical Waveguide. Coverage is 90 degrees x 60 degrees. The cabinet is fitted with M6, M8, and M10 inserts for rigging and bracket mount options. Maximum SPL is 128dB peak, and the frequency response if 68Hz to 20kHz.
The Vue Audiotechnikh-12W incorporates a 12in. low-frequency driver and a 4in. voice-coil high-frequency driver for a frequency response of 55Hz to 21kHz and a coverage of 100 degrees by 50 degrees. Onboard amplification provides more than 2,400W total peak power. SystemVue network monitoring and control, and integrated DSP are also part of the onboard electronics package.
Yamaha Stagepas 600i
Everything you need is included with Yamaha’s Stagepas 600i portable PA system. In addition to a 680W, 10-channel powered mixer with three band EQ, SPX digital reverb, and a digital connection for iPod or iPhone, the system includes two speakers that provide 90-degree by 60-degree coverage and 129dB maximum SPL. The speakers comprise a 10in. low-frequency driver and a 1.4in. compression driver for a frequency response of 55Hz to 20kHz.
The Yorkville Parasource PS15P features a 15in. low-frequency driver and a 1in. exit high-frequency driver on an 85-degree x 50-degree coverage horn. The ABS enclosure includes integrated flypoints and a pole-mount adapter. The frequency response is 45Hz to 26kHz, and maximum peak SPL is 134dB. Onboard amplification provides 1,400W program power, and thermal and peak limiters provide system protection.
