JBL takes its stick PA offering seriously. At the upper end, JBL’s PRX One is the ‘bells and whistles’ option. In fact, the mixer section is so well featured (with effects and processing on every channel) that it’s bit of a pain to operate without the app — which is excellent. PRX One is a serious all-in-one PA suitable for anything up to a three or four-piece band in a medium-sized space. Then there’s the EON One Mk2. One of the standout features of this system is it can be battery powered (whoever at JBL came up with the tag line: ‘bring your power chords, not your power cords’ deserves a raise). It’s a ‘desert island’ portable PA combining an array of eight two-inch tweeters and a 10-inch sub.

Now coming into the market under the EON One Mk2 is the thrifty IRX One.

The first thing you notice about IRX One is just how portable it is. The ‘stick’ part of the PA is stored into the base unit, making for a true all-in-one transport solution. And it’s lightweight – at 15.5kg, most high schoolers’ backpacks are heavier. What’s more, the industrial design is ingenious. The way the stick elements store, and how the ‘lid’ fits over the top providing a sturdy handle for transportation, is really clever. It’s a genuinely portable option for just about anyone to handle.

LET’S STICK TOGETHER

Piecing together the IRX One is a doddle. The ‘stick’ is in three pieces. Once you pull the pieces out of the enclosure, simply pop the two ‘spacers’ into the slot and place the loudspeaker portion at the top. If you don’t need the extra height, just use one spacer.

You’ll need an IEC power lead, of course, but otherwise everything is entirely self contained (hmm, wonder if a slot could be provided for the power lead? I wrapped mine in and around the handle mechanism). 

The mixer section is designed for simplicity. First thing you’ll notice is there’s no LCD – what you see is what you get. That said, the mixer has some very handy easter eggs.

There are three channels. The first two accept mic or line signal and phantom power is available. The third channel takes a mono jack for line/Hi-Z sources. There’s no stereo input, which is hardly an issue when the output is mono. Each channel has a signal present/limit LED. Each has a gain pot (55dB for mic level, 48dB for line); two-band EQ (with a centre detent on the control) and a level pot. The level pot has a pleasing degree of resistance – there’s not much chance of bumping it and wearing the consequences.

The master/main section of the mixer includes the power button and larger main level knob. A Bluetooth (BT) button allows your device to discover the IRX One. The AFS (automatic feedback suppression) button engages that particular feature, as does the Ducking button (IRX One will detect mic input activity and duck music from the Bluetooth source). 

A six-position Preset dial allows you to click between EQ presets (Flat, Speech, DJ, KTV, Cafe and Bright).

A limit LED rounds out the section, while a Mix Out jack rounds out the I/O.

The new JBL PRX900 Series of pro portable loudspeakers sits between the class-leading JBL EON Series and the top-spec SRX Series. They cost twice as much as the EONs and that seems about right.  The PRX900 Series replaces the PRX800 Series with mostly new components. Demand for good quality portable speakers is high and performance keeps improving as the technology evolves. The competitive marketplace ensures good value in all segments, the choice depends on what you need and what you can afford.

THE RANGE & THE TECH

The PRX Series consists of three full-range speakers and two subs. The subs still have timber cabinets but the full-range speakers are now made from the same talc-reinforced FEA-optimised polypropylene composite material as the current EONs. The talc (10%) adds strength and heat resistance. There are subtle differences in the looks of the current JBL portable speaker series but they share a contemporary, professional JBL family theme with a perforated steel front grille, flat sides, foldback angles and a control panel at the back.

The 12-inch woofer-based JBL PRX912 is the middle speaker of the range that includes the PRX908 (eight-inch) and PRX915 (15-inch) versions. The subs include the PRX915XLF 15-inch and PRX918 18-inch. The full-range boxes are the standard two-way, point-source, bass-reflex designs with on-board processing and amplification. The switch to polypropylene cabinets for the PRX series enables computer-modelled internal bracing to shape the cabinet response and add strength. The HF compression driver is the new 2408H-2 1.5-inch tweeter featuring a poly-annular (ring shaped) diaphragm and neodymium magnet. NTC thermistors protect the drivers from overheating and updated waveguides control the 90 x 50° HF dispersion. The 912G 12-inch LF driver replaces the PRX800 Series JBL Differential Drive technology with a new design using a ferrite magnet.

Power comes from a single 2000W (Peak)/1000W (RMS) Class-D amp designed by stablemate Crown. A passive crossover at 2050Hz separates the drivers. Cooling is passive (no fan), with the back panel acting as a heat sink. I had them out in the full Aussie sun on one occasion and the cabinets get very hot. They didn’t seem to mind (read: they didn’t melt and kept working) but I’d like to see an on-demand fan for peace of mind. Both sides of the cabinets are angled at the back with protective feet so the speakers can be used on their sides with your choice of which side the horn is on if you’re using them as a pair of wedges.

The 19.5kg PRX912s are 5kg heavier than the equivalent EON712 model and feel like they mean business – the EONs are solid enough but feel a bit light for what they do, while these feel reassuringly dead and resonance-free.  The chunky handles on the top and one side are neatly integrated into the design. Mounting options comprise 6 x M10 eyebolts and standard dual-angle polemount sockets on the bottom.

Electro-Voice has announced the global introduction of the Everse 8; the first Bluetooth audio and controlled, battery-powered loudspeaker from the company — and the first weatherised model of its type. 

Everse 8 takes advantage of decades of Electro-Voice engineering expertise, and the latest advancements in technology, to provide a truly portable, wireless audio experience. It does this at a price and performance level unmatched by current comparable products on the market.

Whether it is used for live music, vocal reinforcement and/or audio playback, professional, amateur, and recreational users can all benefit from the superior sound quality, user-friendliness, and all-in-one PA system design. With a maximum SPL rating of 121dB and a wide, even 100º x 100º coverage, Everse 8’s capabilities defy its compact form factor and set uncompromising new benchmarks for its product segment. 

Core components include an 8-inch woofer mounted using EV’s patented SST (Signal Synchronised Transducers) port design, and a high-output titanium tweeter mounted onto a custom constant-directivity waveguide. Everse 8 is driven by a high-efficiency Class-D amplifier and DSP module developed in collaboration with the world-class audio electronics engineering team at EV’s sibling brand Dynacord. 

Pro features include a built in four-channel digital mixer with studio-quality effects and processing, 48V phantom power, feedback suppression, and audio ducking. As with all Electro-Voice portable loudspeakers, Everse 8’s system reliability is verified with over 500 hours of music abuse and endurance testing.

Everse 8 is powered by a custom-designed high-capacity Li-ion battery pack that is fully optimised for audio use and providing power for up to 12 hours of run time. Protection circuitry reduces the risk of the battery discharging to such a low voltage that it can no longer be recharged— for example, after long periods in storage —and tool-free screws make removing the battery pack simple.

Everse 8’s flexible features ensure a truly self-contained setup, input to output. Wireless control and monitoring is easy with the EV QuickSmart Mobile app, which can be used to adjust all audio, effects and mix functions via phone or tablet. An intuitive user interface makes it simple to shape the sound to the space, so users can focus on their performance instead of the hardware. 

An integrated 12VDC port provides convenient power from the battery, making it perfect for powering a wireless microphone system. Simply attach the optional accessory tray to the top of an Everse 8 to secure receiver hardware in place. For stereo setups, it is equipped for Bluetooth True Wireless Stereo streaming. A charging port is also included for mobile devices if a top-up is needed when streaming.

Every detail of Everse 8 is designed to maximise easy lifting and carrying. An ergonomically designed soft-touch handle, and premium lightweight construction make it a breeze to move and mount — whether on a tripod for a longer throw, set long-side-down as a stage wedge using the 55° monitor angle, or used upright with the 30° kick-back angle to project up off the performance area.

Built-in feet with no-skid rubber pads ensure the system stays put. In combination with the rugged polypropylene enclosure, use of the included weatherised input cover allows Everse 8 to meet the IP43 rating for outdoor use. An optional tote bag is also available, designed to fit everything the user might need. In addition to this is an accessory tray and weather cover, wireless mic and receiver, extra battery, and XLR and power cables. Everse 8 comes in a black or white finish, adding an aesthetic angle to its versatility.

HARMAN Professional Solutions has introduced the JBL PRX900 Series of loudspeakers and subwoofers, which feature advanced acoustics, comprehensive DSP, unrivalled power performance, and complete BLE control via the JBL Pro Connect app. The line, which includes three powered two-way loudspeakers and two powered subwoofers is built from the ground up to leverage JBL’s most advanced acoustic innovations. All-new proprietary driver systems — with improved dispersion and beam width, smooth low-frequency extension, and powered by ultra-efficient Class-D amplifiers — deliver clarity and definition even at maximum volume.

The PRX900 Series’ class-leading DSP package is accessible via onboard LCDs and the JBL Pro Connect app. It includes 12-band parametric EQ for system tuning and nuanced tonal control, and integrated dbx Drive Rack technology. This features live and fixed Automatic Feedback Suppression, soft system limiter with Soundcraft Overeasy option, and speaker delay settings and presets. Use the JBL Pro Connect app to control up to 10 speakers, integrate with JBL EON ONE MK2, PRX ONE, and EON700 systems, and access app-only functions including speaker snapshots and grouping.

The PRX900 Series is designed to withstand the rigours of the road. Rigid composite loudspeaker cabinets feature computer-modelled ribbing for optimal acoustic performance and durability, while subwoofers are housed in 18mm birch cabinets with optimised bracing for smooth, accurate low-frequency response. Like with every JBL product, everything is reinforced by industry-leading test and validation protocols and the series is backed by an unprecedented seven-year warranty.

“For years, our PRX800 Series loudspeakers have been first-call systems for bands, DJs, installers and houses of worship in large part thanks to their acoustic profile, their low end extension, and their volume,” said Brandon Knudsen, HARMAN Professional Product Manager, Portable PA Loudspeakers. “With the PRX900 Series, we’re taking things to the next level with next-gen acoustic innovations and an even brawnier power package to deliver clean, clear sound at any volume. Systems take advantage of the latest BLE technology and the JBL Pro Connect app ecosystem, for unrivalled control.”

The PRX900 Series is a versatile solution for DJs and bands, music venues, rental houses, corporate A/V providers, or anyone seeking durable professional systems that deliver powerful, room-filling sound in either portable or installed scenarios.

Key Innovations Include:

All-New Acoustic Designs
From cones to cabinets, the PRX900 Series is designed for advanced acoustic performance. The patented JBL 2408H-2 1.5-inch compression drivers with poly-annular diaphragms and neodymium magnets provide clear, detailed high-frequency response; while innovative new horns with updated JBL Image Control Waveguides deliver consistent beamwidth and frequency dispersion. Next-generation woofers with ferrite magnets deliver smooth, natural bass response, and an FEA flared port design reduces air noise and distortion.

Superior Power Performance
Driven by highly efficient Class-D power amps, the PRX900 Series provides acoustic clarity and definition with minimal power compression, even at maximum volume. A bridged woofer amp keeps current spikes out of the ground, and lowers crosstalk harmonics to the tweeter. High-linearity inductors deliver superior power efficiency and low total harmonic distortion, and low-noise, low-distortion input gain staging optimises range and headroom for diverse gain requirements.

High-quality DAC and ADC provides near-lossless audio conversion. Producing up to 134 dB output down to 30 Hz, systems effortlessly support large performance spaces with high power and performance requirements, and with a full-bandwidth CMRR (Common Mode Rejection Ratio) greater than 55 dB and THD (total harmonic distortion) rating of <32 dB, noise is virtually nonexistent.

Class-Leading DSP
The PRX900 Series is fully loaded with comprehensive DSP, all accessible via the JBL Pro Connect app or onboard full-colour LCD. Processing includes 12-band parametric EQ, plus optimised presets and snapshots. Onboard dbx DriveRack technology features live and fixed Automatic Feedback Suppression, hard and soft system limiters and 180ms of speaker delay in 100-microsecond intervals for full time-aligned systems.

Versatile & Scalable
Combine PRX900 Series loudspeakers and subwoofers in a range of configurations to meet the requirements of both mobile scenarios and fixed installs. Speakers feature dual 36mm pole sockets and six M10 suspension points; subwoofers feature M20 pole cups. Full-range speakers feature a built-in gyro-sensor that automatically optimises system tuning depending on monitor or mains placement.

The Pro Connect Ecosystem
JBL’s Pro Connect app offers BLE functionality for system control of up to 10 speakers and line integration with JBL EON ONE MK2, PRX ONE, and EON700 loudspeakers. Access full DSP functions right from the app, including app-only features like speaker snapshots and speaker groupings.

Rugged & Road-Worthy
PRX900 components are housed in strong, lightweight cabinets that maximise both acoustic performance and durability. Loudspeaker cabinets are constructed from a polypropylene/talc blend that’s optimised for rigidity, with computer-modelled internal ribbing designed for maximum structural integrity and minimal cabinet noise. Subwoofer enclosures feature optimised bracing that smooths out low-frequency response.