NAMM: TWO NEW ADDITIONS TO VUE FLAGSHIP SYSTEMS

Vue Audiotechnik has expanded its flagship h-Class series of loudspeakers, with the h-5 ultra-compact speaker. Along with the new al-8SB Flyable Subwoofer for integration with the al-8 Line Array System.

AL-8SB

The new subwoofer delivers low-frequency reproduction below 35 Hz and features an 18-inch, long-throw transducer with a 4-inch voice coil and dual spider (for minimal compression). It also features the W-18 neodymium version of the C18 woofer found in the VUE hs-28 Dual 18-inch ACM Subwoofer.

The new subwoofer’s enclosure is the same height of two al-8 dual 8 inch three-way line array elements, allowing it to fit neatly between flown arrays of al-8s and al-8sb subwoofers, and is constructed in birch plywood, with a Dura-Coat LX finish.

The addition of VUE’s new fly beam gives the subwoofer a range of variable rigging options for suspension above or behind al-8 arrays (in a variety of configurations), in addition to forming the base for ground stack arrays. Included is a four-point symmetrical rigging configuration that allows the new subwoofer to be flown in reverse fashion with other al-8sb subwoofers, to create a cardioid bass arrangement. Recessed, front- and rear-mounted, dual Neutrik Speakon sockets allow for input and output connection from the back of cardioid arrays.

Custom al-8SB configuration settings are available (via SystemVUE software) allowing users to customise the processors inside the V4 and V6 specifically for the al-8SB arrays. The V Series amplifiers will power up to four al-8SB systems with the V4 and up to six al-8SB systems in a cardioid configuration with the V6.

PRICE & AVAILABILITY

The al-8SB Flyable Subwoofer has a list price of less than US$4000 and will begin shipping to stores within the next 60 days worldwide. There’s no word as yet on Australian prices.

Australian Distributor: Amber Technology, Ph: 1800 251 367, Email: professional@ambertech.com.au, Web: www.ambertech.com.au

H-5 Loudspeaker

The latest addition to P&D’s flagship h-Class family loudspeakers, the h-5 is said to deliver the same sound quality of the larger h-8, h-12 and h-15 systems and is designed for applications with limited space. The generous output to size ratio makes it a usable solution for stage lip or under-balcony applications, allowing coverage to areas often missed by the main systems.

The h-5 combines two 5-inch low-frequency transducers with a 1-inch exit compression driver, featuring a Truextent beryllium diaphragm at its core. The beryllium compression driver is mounted to a new, Mike Adams-designed, precision horn with 120° x 40° (H x V) coverage, allowing the driver to deliver improvements in high-frequency extension and response linearity when compared to traditional aluminum or titanium designs.

The new loudspeaker houses the same 64-bit DSP found in the h-12 and h-15 systems, providing EQ, time alignment, crossover management, and speaker protection, in addition to SystemVUE network control and monitoring functions. Dual channel amplifiers power the transducers (eliminating the need for cooling fans), including a switch-mode power supply with auto voltage detection, with universal mains operation from 85V to 260V.

“The h-5 is born out of our “No Compromises” design philosophy,” explained VUE CEO Ken Berger. “We literally reexamined everything, from transducers, electronics, and DSP, all the way to mechanical deployment and remote management capabilities. It’s a comprehensive approach that can only be done when you start with a clean slate, and leverage the most advanced technologies available. The net result is an exceptionally capable combination of size and versatility.”

Like its larger siblings, the h-5 grille is coated with a two-part, polyurethane finish and is constructed using multi-ply, cross-grain laminated birch with interior bracing for resonant-free output.

“The h-5 delivers a much better balance of output, clarity and frequency response than any other loudspeaker in its category,” said VUE’s EVP Jim Sides. “We’re extremely excited to offer customers a true high-performance alternative for applications such as theaters, houses of worship, front fill and under-balcony systems, portable and installed AV systems, corporate AV, or anyplace where space and sight lines are critical.”

FEATURES

• Ultra Wide 120º x 40º coverage
• Neodymium HF compression driver with Truextent® beryllium diaphragm for exceptional high-frequency clarity and output
• Dual channel, high-efficiency amplifiers deliver ample power for all transducers while eliminating the need for noisy cooling fans
• Integrated DSP with SystemVUE network control and monitoring
• Integrated M10 hanging points, and optional rigging hardware for deployment as a stage lip and under-balcony distributed system or in a variety of support configurations

There’s no word as yet on price or availability for the h-5, once we hear more we’ll update this article.

Australian Distributor: Amber Technology, Ph: 1800 251 367, Email: professional@ambertech.com.au, Web: www.ambertech.com.au

Excerpts from Press Releases