In addition to its large line array systems and subs at NAMM 2024 (Demo Room 17104), Eastern Acoustic Works (EAW) is also showcasing LA Series, a 2-way, self-powered loudspeaker featuring EAW’s signature performance in a portable and lightweight package. The LA Series supports events that are often geared towards pole mounted deployments, such as small to medium live shows, weddings, corporate events, restaurants, bars and clubs.

Designed around high-quality transducers, the LA Series consists of four models, the 12” LA121 and LA123, and the 15” LA151 and LA153. Performance versions LA123 and LA153 utilize a 3” voice coil compression driver providing higher output, crisper highs and clearer vocals. All four models weigh less than 50 pounds individually and the asymmetric pattern of the horn maintains high frequency directivity where required, eliminating unwanted reflections in the venue.

“NAMM is a great crowd to showcase our range of solutions – from large arena applications to smaller venues, which is where the LA Series shines,” says TJ Smith, president of Eastern Acoustic Works (EAW). “Most active 2-way loudspeakers on the market prioritize processing and mixer features, but these technologies are already owned by most live sound companies. The LA Series loudspeakers represent a shift in focus, as it is an investment maximized around transducers and simple deployment instead.”

Setup is streamlined for the LA Series, the XLR in and loop output simplifies wiring by allowing multiple loudspeakers to daisy chain. It is also designed with a mic/line switch, allowing the loudspeaker to be used in simple setups where only the amplification of a single microphone is required. Its TRS input provides flexibility with different external mixers and processors, eliminating the need for adapters. Performance versions of the LA Series utilize Neutrik PowerCon in and loop through for secure connection to the mains’ source.

The lightweight and durable enclosure has been meticulously designed to eliminate any resonance within and houses on-board bi-amplified electronics (1500W). It utilizes large asymmetric ports designed to maximize sensitivity, neutralize internal reflection and minimize chuffing. These produce exceptional bass response from a full range cabinet. EAW’s Focusing and Beamwidth Matched Crossovers provide unmatched clarity and accuracy, while DynO digital signal processing also allows LA Series to provide clear and dynamic sound.

These products also include a monitor angle and monitor mode button that accommodate mains and monitor use in one product, in turn making the LA Series even more flexible. Rubber feet prevent shifting when the loudspeakers are set on a flat surface, such as an RS subwoofer or stage lip.

Meet the newest members of JBL’s flagship VTX line array series, the VTX A6 subcompact dual 6.5-inch passive line array element and the B15 compact, arrayable 15-inch subwoofer. The A6 and B15 bring JBL’s top acoustic technologies to compact form factors for small- to medium-size touring and fixed installations, providing versatile solutions for production companies, touring acts, rental houses, theatres, houses of worship, and anyone who requires superior sonic performance in space-critical applications.

“When you choose the JBL VTX A Series, you’re building a complete ecosystem, with common acoustic profiles and rigging systems, consistent voicing and standardised system design and operational tools,” says George Georgallis, Director, Product Management, Performance Audio at HARMAN Professional Solutions. “And, by accessing VTX technologies in a new ultra-compact package, you’re able to maximise your system investment and deliver VTX quality and performance in any scale application.”

The A6 6.5-inch passive two-way line array element is engineered from the ground up for stunning sonic performance and ease of integration and deployment, as a standalone system or as a supplement to larger VTX systems. It houses two custom 6.5-inch woofers and a 3-inch annular-diaphragm compression driver and features acoustic innovations pioneered in JBL’s VTX line, including JBL’s patented Radiation Boundary Integrator (RBI) and Differential Drive dual-voicecoil, dual-magnet woofer. It all adds up to big-system performance in a low-profile loudspeaker, with low-frequency extension to 67 Hz and 134 dB max SPL.

Extend the low-end range of VTX full-range systems with the VTX B15 15-inch subwoofer. The B15 features acoustic advancements such as SlipStream double-flared exponential ports and Differential Drive dual-voicecoil design and is based on JBL’s new 2285H 15-inch woofer, which is engineered for linearity, efficiency and excursion that rival 18-inch models. Two B15 versions are available: the arrayable B15 and the B15G, which is designed without rigging hardware for ground-stacked applications.

Both the A6 and B15 are designed for versatile rigging and effortless system integration. The A6 uses the VTX A Series’ patented rigging system for accurate, easy deployment. Set splay angles while components are on the ground — once the system is suspended, a locking mechanism automatically secures cabinets in designated positions. The B15 has the same cabinet width and suspension hardware as the A6, allowing the two products to be used together in flown and ground-stacked configurations; the B15 supports cardioid array configurations.

Streamline system operation and share information with teams in real time using JBL’s suite of software tools, including the LAC-3 design application, the Array Link deployment tool and the Performance Manager configuration and control application. Simple, intuitive user interfaces let users design systems in minutes and manage functions from anywhere.

JBL VTX A Series products are constructed from premium materials that withstand the harsh conditions of touring and outdoor installations. Enclosures are built from exterior-grade birch plywood with black Duraflex finish and feature powder-coated, hex-perforated stainless steel grilles with acoustically transparent cloth backing. Units are IP55-rated and metal parts are made from high-grade steel with anti-corrosion coating.

With the addition of the A6 and the B15, the JBL VTX Series offers a complete ecosystem for delivering unrivalled sound reinforcement at any scale, in any venue, anywhere in the world.

VTX A6 Sub-compact Dual 6.5-Inch Line Array Element
Features:

• High-frequency section features a custom 3-inch polymer annular-diaphragm compression driver and integrated waveguide for crisp, distortion-free highs
• Custom 6.5-inch woofers are based on JBL’s Differential Drive dual-voicecoil, dual-gap design for superior low-frequency performance in a compact footprint
• Radiation Boundary Integrator (RBI) horn design provides 120° horizontal dispersion in a reduced cabinet size
• Efficient passive crossover network allows 16 speakers to be connected to a single Crown I-Tech 4x3500HD amplifier
• Industry-leading auto-locking rigging and suspension features allow fast, accurate deployment in flown and ground-stacked configurations
• A6 and B15 have the same cabinet width and suspension hardware, allowing the two products to be combined in flown and ground-stacked configurations
• Fully compatible with JBL LAC-3, Array Link and Performance Manager software
• Neutrik speakON NL4 connectors
• Rugged, exterior-grade birch enclosure with black Duraflex finish and recessed handholds
• Powder-coated, hex-perforated steel grilles with acoustically transparent cloth backing
• Available accessories include mini frame, suspension bar, base plate, ceiling mount, cover, ground stack accessory, pole adapter and transport cover and accessories

VTX B15 Compact Arrayable 15-inch Subwoofer
Features:

• New JBL 2285H 15-inch woofer offers low distortion and improved linearity
• SlipStream double-flared ports reduce noise and air turbulence
• Differential Drive dual-voicecoil, dual-gap woofer design delivers superior low-frequency performance in a compact footprint
• Two models are available: the arrayable B15 and the B15G, designed without rigging hardware
• Integrates seamlessly with JBL LAC-3, Array Link and Performance Manager software applications
• Standard VTX rigging and suspension features allow fast, accurate deployment in both ground-stacked and flown configurations
• Support for omnidirectional and cardioid array configurations
• Available accessories include mini frame, suspension bar, ground stack accessory and transportation accessories
• Neutrik STX speakON NL4 connectors
• Rugged, exterior-grade birch plywood enclosure with black Duraflex finish and recessed handholds
• Powder-coated, hex-perforated stainless steel grille with acoustically transparent cloth backing

VTX B15G Compact 15-inch Subwoofer
Features:

• JBL 2285H 15-inch woofer offers low distortion and improved linearity
• SlipStream double-flared ports reduce noise and air turbulence
• Differential Drive dual-voicecoil, dual-gap woofer design delivers superior low-frequency performance in a compact footprint
• Two B15 models are available — the B15G and the B15. The B15G is acoustically identical to the B15 but designed without rigging hardware, reducing weight and cost for situations where rigging is not required
• Integrates seamlessly with JBL LAC-3, Array Link and Performance Manager software applications
• Support for omnidirectional and cardioid array configurations
• Available accessories include ground stack accessory and transportation accessories
• Neutrik STX speakON NL4 connectors
• Rugged, exterior-grade birch plywood enclosure with black Duraflex finish and recessed handholds
• Powder-coated, hex-perforated stainless steel grille with acoustically transparent cloth backing

The Audio Engineering Society has announced the adoption and publication of AES75-2022, “AES Standard For Acoustics – Measuring Loudspeaker Maximum Linear Sound Levels Using Noise.” The new standard addresses the need for a practical and cohesive procedure for the prediction of loudspeaker performance. AES75 is the result of extensive work by the AES Standards Committee’s SC-04-03-A Task Group, co-chaired by Merlijn van Veen (Meyer Sound senior technical support and education specialist) and Roger Schwenke, Ph.D. (Meyer Sound senior scientist and innovation steward).

“The work of the drafting group was deliberate and thoughtful as they carefully refined the standard,” says AES Standards chair Bruce Olson. “AES75 will no doubt join the most impactful standards that the Society has published in its long history.”

Predictive evaluation of loudspeaker performance based on published specifications has traditionally been challenging due to inconsistencies in both measurement procedures and in how measured parameters are reported. “Until now,” explains Schwenke, “reading an SPL number on a datasheet often inspired more questions than answers regarding test signals used and procedures for measurement. Most important to the end user is how the loudspeaker will perform with typical audio signals and whether the numbers can be compared apples-to-apples with numbers from one datasheet to another.”

“AES75 addresses these issues,” Schwenke continues, “by providing a detailed procedure as well as a specific test signal, M-Noise, whose RMS and peak levels as functions of frequency have been shown to better represent typical program material. Furthermore, AES75 is designed to be independently verifiable, using analysers and microphones typically used by audio professionals. By being independently verifiable, AES75 provides system specifiers and users a much more enforceable metric to use in quotes and architectural specs.”

The M-Noise test signal is based on Meyer Sound’s analysis of hundreds of music selections spanning all genres. The procedures documented in AES75 provide measurement of maximum linear sound levels by incrementally increasing playback levels until the magnitude or coherence of a loudspeaker’s acoustic reproduction of the M-Noise test signal reaches an unacceptable state. The AES75 test procedures cover performance measurements of both self-powered and externally powered loudspeakers. 

Credit for the development of AES75 is owed to the large task group, AES’s standards management and to Meyer Sound’s original work, shares van Veen. “The chairs would like to acknowledge the nearly 80 task group members who represent all market verticals such as, but not limited to, automotive, consumer electronics, pro audio, post-production, and cinema,” he says. “For more than two years — during a pandemic — we met more than 50 times, every other week, which is extraordinary given the circumstances! Special recognition goes to the AES, Bruce Olson, Richard Cabot [AES standards manager], and Steve Hutt [recent co-chair AES Technical Council], as well as the SC-04-03 parent committee we report to for their continued support and guidance. Finally, the chairs would like express gratitude to John and Helen Meyer and Meyer Sound where M-Noise and its former companion procedure originated.”

More information about AES75-2022 “AES Standard For Acoustics – Measuring Loudspeaker Maximum Linear Sound Levels Using Noise” can be found in the Audio Engineering Society’s Standards News Blog. The AES75 standard as well as the M-Noise signals and coherence test tracks are available for download at the AES website.

Here’s the technical lowdown directly from EAW on their new MKD series, based off of the landmark MK series released some 20 years ago…

The MK-series of installation loudspeakers has been the standard for leading installations over the past 20 years.  While the series has gone through some improvements, the fundamental concept of a single woofer and HF horn driver with matched coverage through the crossover region has remained unchanged.  However, recent transducer developments have allowed us to advance the series further and that’s what EAW has done in the new MKD series.

In order to increase output and take the exceptional pattern control of MK to the next level, we have taken concepts from the highly successful QX series and applied them to new dual woofer loudspeakers. This approach has yielded as much as a 6dB increase in LF output with significantly enhanced beam-width along the axis of the dual woofers.

Improvements. But from where?

As with QX, the MKD HF driver needed to achieve a crossover point at least 1 octave below that of a single woofer design.  New transducers were then required in all instances. In the 10” version (MKD1000) this is achieved with a 4” coil HF driver.  In the case of the dual 8” version (MKD800) a new 2” coil driver had to be developed as no 1.75” coil could achieve low enough resonance. This allows for wider operating ranges to match the LF sections and avoid the lobing of a typical dual-woofer design.

The slanted mounting technique of the recessed woofers inherently improves time coherency as well as minimising the overall long dimension of the cabinet.  This technique was first applied in the KF860 touring line array cabinet and then evolved for the AX series. It is now used in several EAW loudspeakers including QX3, QX5, and now MKD.  The result is that the dual woofer MKD loudspeakers are no larger than the MK cabs yet boast dramatically improved LF pattern control, LF extension, and exceptional output.

What’s Shipping

The MKD800 and MKD1000 series are shipping now in horn patterns of 120×60, 60×45, and 90×60, but we haven’t stopped there.  Dual 6”, 12”, and 15” versions (MKD600, MKD1200, and MKD1500) are in development.  Each will benefit from specially developed HF drivers.  The MKD1200 will use a specially developed co-ax driver and the MKD1500 will receive a radical new design, a ground-breaking wide bandwidth driver covering down to 350Hz in one device.

In response to customer demand, KV2 introduces the new CS Series loudspeaker range that has been specially designed to deliver ultra-high vocal intelligibility and music reproduction in a compact form factor. A variety of flexible mounting options and easy connectivity make the CS range an ideal candidate for the corporate and rental markets.

The range consists of three extremely high quality two-way passive loudspeakers; the compact CS6, the medium sized CS8 and the larger CS12. Voiced for speech and utilising KV2’s analogue delay line first developed in the revolutionary ESD series, these discrete solutions are able to cover large areas with relatively few boxes, providing excellent results in even the most challenging acoustic environments.

For rapid deployment the focus was placed on easy handling and quick connectivity. Accessories include a KV2 pole mount for speaker stands, as well as vertical and horizontal brackets with a precise tilt angle setting. The M10 fixing points cater for other standard accessories such as spiggots, clamps and couplers.

The low profile trapezoidal cabinet design offers 35 and 55 degree angles, which also makes the CS range perfect for a variety of personalised monitoring situations.

The easy handling and connectivity of these boxes means less time is wasted during set up, with a 1+/ 2+ speakON connection, switchable in the field, allowing an additional speaker ring to be run independently down the same cable. The CS6 also features speakON connectivity in the top and bottom alongside the rear panel for neater cabling possibilities on a truss.

With exceptional KV2 quality as standard and unprecedented vocal intelligibility coupled with easy handling and connectivity, the CS range is a worthy addition to any rental inventory.