Hong Kong-based Max Production Ltd, one of the first adopters of Martin Audio’s MLA and MLA Compact systems in the Far East, recently underwent full technical training.
Following the recent purchase of an MLA Compact 24, both Martin Audio Regional Application Support Engineer Chris Pyne and Technical Training Manager Martyn (Ferrit) Rowe arrived at Max Production’s HQ in Sha Tin district to carry out the intensive three day training course afforded all Martin Audio MLA network partners.
The course was conducted by Ferrit and attended by ten of Max Production’s senior and junior staff as well as technicians and an interpreter from Budee, the MLA territorial distributor.
Chris Pyne, who conducted the introduction and initiation course, explained the content of the workshop. “The formal class room audio theory and system functions plus software and venue design studies take place over two days. The third day is dedicated to system rigging and safety, with system optimizations, listening tests and problem solving. We also do a sub bass array and system design class.”
He confirms that he will be returning in March to support Max Production with a major concert at the Asia World Arena utilizing the company’s entire MLA and MLA Compact inventory.
Summing up, Pine adds, “It was an enjoyable experience, with the Max management clearly pleased and excited by owning the first MLA system in Hong Kong. South-east Asia is proving a very strong growth area for both MLA and MLA Compact.”
Photo caption: Martyn ‘Ferrit’ Rowe with sound engineers at Max Production
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About MLAâ„¢ (Multi-cellular Loudspeaker Array)
The result of many years of intensive R&D, MLA’s methodology replaces trial-and-error array design with intelligent numerical optimization of the array’s output based on a highly accurate acoustic model. The multi-cellular format has six individual cells in each enclosure, each with its own DSP and amplification.
With up to 24 enclosures, each MLA array has up to 144 cells — too great a number to optimize manually, or by ear. Instead, Martin Audio’s proprietary Display2â„¢ system design software automatically calculates FIR DSP filters for each cell and a redundant-ring audio network (U-NETâ„¢) downloads the settings into each array enclosure. Martin Audio’s VU-NETâ„¢ software provides real-time control and monitoring of the system.
MLA delivers a frequency response and SPL consistency never before achievable; a very high system output (140dB peak, per cabinet @1m); Automatic optimization of the array, both physically (splay angles) and electronically (DSP); Computer control and monitoring of the entire system, and total control of sound system balance for engineers and sound technicians.
MLA is fully integrated, with Class D amplification, DSP and U-NET digital audio
network built into each enclosure. MLA complete systems are ready-to-use, with MLA, MLD and MLX enclosures, flying hardware, software, cabling and training all supplied. Everything needed is included. All ancillary items — from tablet PC and Merlinâ„¢ controller to network interconnects and mains distro — are also included in the complete system package. This ensures full compatibility worldwide, down to cabling and accessories.
Additional features include 90A° x 7.5A° dispersion; a compact size (1136mm wide x 372mm high x 675mm deep), one-box-fits-all (festivals to theaters) application range and a global voltage, power factor corrected power supply.
MLA’s compact size and very high output allows it to be shipped using smaller trucks, offering considerable savings and reduced carbon footprint. The system also includes the MLX powered, flyable subwoofer capable of an unprecedented measured peak output of 150dB @ 1m; MLD downfill cabinet, and Merlin 4-in/10-out system controller and network hub. Audio input is via analog, AES3 or U-NET.
By adopting these principles and system components MLA is optimized for every member of the audience — from a 2,000 capacity theater, to a 20,000-seat arena, to a 100,000-person festival site. It will deliver the engineer’s exact mix to every seat (up to over 150 meters) with precision, exceptional power and clarity.
About Martin AudioA®
Founded by audio engineer David Martin in 1971, Martin Audio pioneered the use of all-horn-loaded bass designs in world-class touring loudspeaker systems for groups such as Pink Floyd, ELP and Supertramp. Located outside of London, Martin Audio now embodies a sophisticated mix of acoustic design, research, mathematical modeling and software engineering for a wide range of products in the installation, cinema and touring sound markets.
