VMB launches Lynx LX-V8 line array module

News

Andy Wood Aug 14 2008, 8:30am

Spanish manufacturer claims world first loudspeaker cabinet with built-in inclinometer

VMB has now introduced the Lynx Series LX-V8, a compact powered line array module featuring a built-in inclinometer, which, according to the Spanish manufacturer, is a world's first.

The compact LX-V8 is a 2-way line array element with integrated amplification, digital processing and networking capabilities. For the low frequencies, two slot-loaded Neodymium magnet 8-inch transducers are deployed in a V-type topology.

The cones and suspensions are constructed of Nomex, a high-temperature material used in fire fighting. For high frequencies, two Neodymium magnet 1-inch drivers are individually coupled to cast aluminium plane wave adapters to increase driver heat sinking and lower power compression.

A total of 2,500 watts of Class-D amplification are utilized: a 1,000W amplifier is used for each of the LF drivers, plus a 500W unit for the HF section. The switched-mode power supply eases cooling requirements while reducing box weight to a 42 kg (93 lbs) including integral flyware.

In addition, the LX-V8's electronics feature a DSP processor (a dedicated version of the proprietary Arkeops outboard controllers) that provides equalization, filtering, alignment and dual (RMS and peak) compression, protecting from thermal as well as mechanical driver damage. An LCD display provides readout of the pitch angle as well as the temperature of the hottest amplification element.

To compensate for array size, users enter the number of boxes using push locations integrated into the screen (so they do not protrude). The system then automatically applies inclinometer data (which is only read at power-up to avoid movements of the array from affecting the processing) to calibrate box throw to long, medium or short. For non-standard set-ups, this can also be defined manually. For added flexibility in complex applications, corrections for box throw and array elements can be bypassed and performed by an external processor.

"The high precision inclinometer is not a mere gimmick", notes VMB's R&D director Carlos Matalí. "Other than saying goodbye to carrying an external inclinometer, the angle information is fed to the processor and the signal conditioning algorithms changed accordingly. And down the pipeline are all sorts of advanced uses for that information within a network of array modules".

An optional board fitted with an EtherCon network connector enables Ethernet-based monitoring and control via proprietary 'Online monitoring Software' software. This finds all the units on the network, which can be assigned a name and an IP address which remains stored in the cabinet. Temperature of all amplifier elements, pitch angle, clip and signal levels can be monitored. Additional 'Lynx on Stage' software takes care of prediction duties for the line array acoustical dispersion performance.

Reaching down to 65 Hz (-6 dB), The LX-V8 can be used stand-alone or, more commonly, complemented by the LX-218S subwoofer, featuring two Neodymium magnet 18-inch woofers with 4-inch (100 mm) interleaved sandwich coils, each of which is powered by a 1,000W amplifier.

The system was put through its paces on the recent Glastonbury festival, where Bristol based South West Group was in charge of the sound.

Operations manager for SWG, Mark Bott, explained, "We were allocated a very limited weight to fly from the towers and the Lynx line array meant we could get everything we wanted into the air with very little flying equipment. The Park stage is erected in a natural amphitheatre and the LX-V8 allowed us to focus sound more effectively. Whilst adhering to all the noise regulations, we also had an audience of 20,000 and everybody was very happy with the system."

vmb.es