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electronic MUSICIAN

NAMM 2011: Live Sound

By | Fri, 21 Jan 2011

Over the past few years, NAMM has featured a wide variety of products suitable for the sound reinforcement professional. Here are a few that caught our eyes—and ears—at this year''s show.

Behringer iNUKE Series Power Amps
With high-density Class-D technology and switch-mode power supplies, Behringer iNUKE Series amplifiers pack massive output power into exceptionally lightweight, rack-mountable packages. All models feature combination XLR /1/4-inch TRS input connectors, integrated limiters, a built-in subwoofer/satellite crossover and professional twist-lock speaker connectors. The iNUKE DSP Series also include built-in DSP and 24-bit/96 kHz converters for signal integrity across an extremely broad dynamic range. The amps feature cool-running and lightweight Class-D technology with output ratings ranging from 1,000 to 6,000 watts.
Find out more about the Behringer iNUKE Series




Carver Professional Xi Series
Carver''s new Xi Series products are specifically designed for high-power applications, The Xi Series offer stable 2-ohm operation; ultra-quiet variable speed fan cooling; a 7-LED level display, including signal present and clip indicators; and Power Ready, Signal Present, Clip, Protect, Thermal and Standby LED indicators for each channel. The Xi Series also features a rear panel that provides access to a level control defeat; a switchable 40/80Hz (-12dB/octave) cut; highpass and lowpass filters; switched soft-knee clip limiters; and Soft Start in-rush current limiting.
Find out more about the Carver Professional Xi Series


Community VLF 218 Subwoofer
Community Professional Loudspeakers is expanding its VLF Series of subwoofers with the re-introduction of the VLF218. Joining the existing VLF208 and VLF212 models, the newly updated VLF218 is a high-efficiency, dual 18-inch subwoofer system with a slim profile and rugged Baltic birch-ply enclosure. With power handling of 1,600W continuous (4,000W program) and sensitivity of 99dB/W/m, it offers exceptional punch, high output and low distortion. Additionally, the drivers can be configured internally to be driven by a single amp (1,600W @ 4 ohms) or by dual amplifiers (800W @ 8 ohms each).
Find out more about the Community VLF218 Series




Crest Audio Pro-Lite Series Amplifiers
Crest Audio''s Pro-LITE Series power amplifiers includes the Pro-LITE 2.0 and Pro-LITE 2.0 DSP, featuring an incredibly lightweight, efficient design with high power and stable performance into 2-ohm loads. All Pro-LITE Series amps are built on an advanced, high-speed Class-D design with a switch-mode power supply that reduces weight while increasing reliability, thermal efficiency and output power. The Pro-LITE 2.0 and Pro-LITE 2.0 DSP boast 985 watts per channel, weigh less than 10 lbs., and deliver rock-solid performance in parallel, stereo and bridged modes. The Crest Audio Pro-LITE 2.0 and Pro-LITE 2.0 DSP will be available in Q1 2011
Find out more about the Crest Pro-Lite amplifiers

Crown XTi 2 Amplifier
The XTi 2 features enhanced control with Crown''s PeakX Plus limiters. The limiters are derived from the same framework as those found in I-Tech HD and the new XLS DriveCore Series amplifiers, allowing users to manipulate threshold, attack and release times. A new and improved subharmonic synthesizer offers more accurate control over which frequencies are targeted and can be tailored for a specific system or room setup. XTi 2 amplifiers are also fully compatible with HiQnet Band Manager, a free application with a sleek, redesigned function-driven interface to simplify system setup and management. The XTi 2 1002, 2002 and 4002 weigh 18.5 pounds and the XTi6002 weighs in at 24 pounds with MAP prices ranging from $499 to $1,999.
Find out more about the Crown XTi 2.




EV Live X Series
The new Live X series of portable powered and passive loudspeakers comprises three powered and four passive models. Three versatile, powered Live X cabinets are available: two full-range loudspeakers and a matching subwoofer. Each self-contained powered system features EV-engineered components optimized for use with the integrated high-efficiency 1,000W and 700W Class-D amplifiers. Both full-range systems can be pole-mounted or stacked with the series'' acoustically matched powered subwoofer. The Live X family also features four passive configurations, including a dual-15-inch system. These systems may be used with a wide range of amplifiers due to their exceptionally efficient design and power-handling capabilities.
Find out more about the Live X Series




HK Audio Elements
HK Audio''s Elements modular sound reinforcement system merges the benefits of modern line array technology with the portability and easy handling of ultra-compact P.A. systems. Elements lets users easily put together a system suitable for every situation by using six easy-to-combine components. The system can be configured to support anything from an intimate speaking engagement to a multi-instrumental concert with a full 3,600W of FOH power. HK Audio Elements will be available at U.S. retailers in February 2011.
Find out more about the HK Audio Elements.




JBL EON515XT
The EON515XT active loudspeaker features improved input sensitivity, a lowered noise floor, user-selectable EQ control and a re-voiced system for peak performance and enhanced audio precision. The two-way EON515XT incorporates a JBL 2414H HF neodymium compression driver and a 15-inch JBL 265F-1 Differential Drive woofer matched to a proprietary Crown Class-D amplifier and delivers 132dB maximum SPL. The EON15XT offers user-adjustable EQ with individual bass and treble controls and a simplified 3-channel mixer configuration. The EON515XT has been restyled with a tough, molded black enclosure, black metal grille, black JBL badge and charcoal EON grille logo. It can be pole-mounted on a subwoofer or tripod stand using its 36mm pole-mount socket, used in a floor monitor position or flown using its integrated M10 suspension points. It offers two 1/4-inch TRS inputs, one combination XLR/TRS input and an XLR loop-through output for connecting another EON speaker, recording device or for routing to an external devices. Weight is 32.5 pounds. Find out more about the EON515XT.




K-Array KR400S
The KR400S features innovative design and construction, resulting in high output within a very small physical footprint. Crafted in Italy, the KR400S is an ultra-slim, two-way loudspeaker designed for small-to-medium wavefront systems in both mobile and installed applications. It includes two KR400 satellites and two KL21ma powered subwoofers. The KL21ma subwoofers feature a 2,500W, 21-inch drive unit with neodymium magnet structure and suspension, which is engineered for maximum line excursions. Its ultra-light reflex cabinet is fitted with four pocket handles and one 35mm pole-mounting point for easy installation of satellite speakers. The KR400S also features a line array of 24x3-inch high-efficiency neodymium magnet drivers enclosed in an ultra-strong chassis.
Find out more about the KR400S




Lectrosonics Quadra Digital Wireless IEM System
The Quadra digital wireless monitor (IEM) system comprises the M4R ($1,765) beltpack diversity receiver and the M4T ($2,875 MSRP) half-rack transmitter, and features digital RF modulation, two or four channels of 24-bit/48kHz digital audio, analog or digital inputs, and a mixing interface for users. The Quadra system operates in the license-free ISM (industrial, scientific and medical) band between 902 and 928 MHz, and has a throughput latency of 1ms for the analog inputs and less than 0.5ms for the digital inputs. A 4-channel mixer enables the performer to tailor the mix in real time, based on what is sent to the transmitter from the monitor console. Several channel setups and knob configurations are available, providing users with a variety of choices as to how the system operates. The M4R runs for six hours on three alkaline AA batteries. The M4T half-rack transmitter features transmission power of 200 mW for extended operating range. Locking XLR connectors facilitates up to four channels of either analog or digital (AES/EBU) audio sources to be applied to the transmitter. The system will be available in February 2011.
Find out more about Lectrosonics Quadra. Watch the video from the NAMM floor




Mackie TH-12A Powered Loudspeaker
Mackie expands its popular Thump Series with the TH-12A ($389 MSRP), a powered, two-way, 12-inch Thump Series loudspeaker. Onboard Fast Recovery™ Class-D amplification provides 400W of total system power to the 12-inch woofer and 1-inch compression driver. A rear panel 3-band EQ lets users adjust for simple room correction or system tone. The active crossover includes transducer alignment, while protective circuitry prevents overload and thermal shutdown. The pole-mountable enclosure can also double as a stage monitor.
Find out more about the Mackie TH-12A




Midas VeniceF
VeniceF is a new “digi-log” ultra-compact mixing console designed by Alex Cooper, complete with FireWire multichannel digital audio interface, XL3 EQ and Propellerhead recording trial software bundle. It features the full functionality and sound quality of the much-loved Midas XL3 EQ and filter section, Midas mic preamps, 100mm faders, increased channel and input count, a dual 7x2 matrix and a reorganized master section layout. The VeniceF''s 32x32 FireWire capability adds 32 channels of multitrack recording and playback (VeniceF 320) using any suitable FireWire-equipped computer, without the need for additional costly interfaces. This also offers the possibility of virtual soundchecking, and allows third-party plug-ins to be run as channel inserts and third-party effects routed via aux sends and returns. Inputs, groups, auxes, matrixes and masters can be routed to the FireWire interface.
Find out more about the Midas Venice-F




Presonus StudioLive Remote iPad App
The StudioLive Remote software for the Apple iPad from Presonus offers wireless remote control of any PreSonus StudioLive-series digital mixer's channels, auxes, effects, subs, Fat Channel processors, and more. StudioLive Remote provides multiple views of key StudioLive mixer controls and is a true iPad app, not a port. The Overview displays the most-used parameters, such as channel levels, mutes, panning, EQ curves, and more for multiple channels at once. The Fat Channel view allows navigation between the gate, compressor, EQ, and so on with the flick of a fingertip. The app is free and part of the Virtual StudioLive computer-control system that ships with their 24- and 16-channel digital mixers.
Find out more about the PreSonus iPad app




QSC GX7 Power Amp
Delivering more power in a reduced weight package, the GX7 is the newest model in QSC''s GX Series of power amps, featuring 725W/channel at 8 ohms; 1,000W/ch at 4 ohms and 1,200 watts mono bridged into 4 ohms. Its two-tier Class-H design creates a lightweight powerhouse, weighing a mere 15.5 pounds for the 120V version. Cooling is aided with a low-noise, variable speed fan with rear-to-front airflow. Like the GX3 and GX5, the GX7 features XLR, 1/4-inch TRS and phono input connectors, Speakon and binding post outputs, built-in subwoofer/satellite crossover control, detented gain knobs, front-panel LED indicators and GuardRail amplifier and speaker protection. MSRP is $699.
Find out more about QSC''s GX Series of power amplifiers.




QSC KLA Series Line Array
Built on the same power platform as the successful K Series and KW Series powered loudspeakers, the new KLA active line array system is comprised of two models, the KLA12 12-inch, 2-way, line array element and the KLA181 18-inch subwoofer enclosure. Both models feature a highly-efficient, 1,000 Watt (continuous) Class-D power module and include QSC's proprietary Intrinsic Correction for optimal acoustical performance across the entire soundfield. The KLA System's unique, self contained SOLO (Single-Operator Logistics) Rigging System enables users to quickly assemble (and disassemble) a line array in a fraction of the time of comparable systems - all without the need for special tools or external hardware. Fully supported in EASE and EASE Focus, the KLA Series will be offered in both black and white finishes and is slated for availability in early Spring 2011.
Find out more about the QSC KLA Series




Shure Axient
Shure''s entry into high-end wireless systems, Axient, is designed to avoid interference by automatically changing frequencies. The Interference Detection and Avoidance feature detects RF interference and enables the system to move to a clear and compatible frequency in milliseconds, making even major interference undetectable. The Frequency Diversity feature transmits full-bandwidth audio on two separate frequencies for seamless, uninterrupted audio for mission-critical channels, even in the face of direct RF interference. ShowLink remote control enables the user to make real-time remote adjustments of transmitter settings like audio gain from the receiver or a laptop, while the microphone is live. ShowLink remote control extends throughout the transmitter''s RF range. Axient Spectrum Manager constantly scans the RF environment, and performs frequency compatibility calculations to assign clear frequencies to each wireless transmitter. Wireless Workbench Version 6 is a new software interface that lets Axient users monitor and control the entire system. Deliveries are slated for mid-year.
Find out more about the Shure Axient system




Soundcraft Vi1 Digital Console
This console package offers 32 channels of analog input to 27 analog outputs, plus six digital inputs, four stereo FX returns and six digital outputs in one chassis. As standard, input to mix capacity is 46 channels, but by adding a stagebox (compatible with the existing Vi racks), simultaneous channel count increases to 64. Channels are routable to 24 multifunction buses, plus L/R and mono mix buses. Up to eight of the buses can be configured as matrix mixes, each with up to 16 sources. The surface is just more than a meter wide, and includes 16 motorized channel faders with fixed and user-definable layers, eight output/VCA faders and two master faders. The desk is compatible with Vi4 and Vi6 show files through the Virtual Vi offline editor, which is available as a free download.
Find out more about the Soundcraft Vi1




Tascam TA-1VP Vocal Processor
Tascam and Antares Audio Technologies collaborated to create the TA-1VP Vocal Processor, a single-rackspace processor for live performance, house of worship or studio use. The TA-1VP uses the new Evo version of Antares'' world-famous Auto-Tune processing for real-time pitch correction and doubling of the input vocal. Antares'' award-winning Microphone and Tube Modeling is also included. The TA-1VP includes both a microphone input and line input. Compression, gating, de-essing and equalization are all available for the input signal.
Find out more about the Tascam TA-1VP




Yamaha Introduces DSR Series Active Loudspeakers
The DSR Series active loudspeaker line—including the compact and lightweight full-range DSR112, DSR115 and DSR215, and the DSR118W subwoofer—delivers class-leading power, digital sound processing, plus the all-new D-Contour multi-band dynamic processing. DSR Series loudspeakers include Integral Digital Tuning, Intelligent Dynamic Control, Powerful Digital Drive and extensive DSP protection. These feature the highest level of power in their class, with onboard 1,300-watt Class-D amplifiers.
Find out more about the Yamaha DSR Series

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