As an extension to the VTX family, this groundbreaking new dual 12” line array loudspeaker was engineered from the ground up to provide best-in-class performance, reliability and ease of use
HARMAN Professional Solutions today introduced JBL by HARMAN VTX A12 line array loudspeakers, offering a completely redesigned solution for mid- to large-size touring productions and high-end fixed installations. Featuring entirely new and proprietary transducer and high-frequency waveguide designs, innovations in the rigging and suspension hardware, and refinements to the physical aspects of the cabinet, JBL VTX A12 addresses the most important needs of tour sound professionals and represents a renewed commitment by JBL to the tour sound community.
“When we set out to design the VTX A12, JBL’s next generation midsize line array, we engaged some of the leading engineers in live sound and asked questions like ‘What frustrates you most?’ and ‘What would make a line array better?’” said Phillip Scobee, Tour Audio Solutions Manager, HARMAN Professional Solutions. “After engineering some groundbreaking advances with the A12’s drivers we knew having the best sound wasn’tenough. We took the feedback we received and applied a systems-based approach that covered all the details, from how quickly the boxes could be rigged, to how efficiently you could load the truck after a performance. What ended up in the VTX A12 is truly astounding. The sound engineers who received early previews are saying they are blown away by its clarity, power, and consistent directivity. Its ease of deployment, and the cost savings they’ll realize due to its light weight and reduced space for transport, is the additional reason why they’re adding the A12 to their riders.
”The VTX A12 loudspeaker was designed from scratch to address the unique challenges of rental companies, FOH engineers and tour sound production crews. Best-in-class rigging enables fast setup and precise configuration featuring a patented locking mechanism to automatically lock the cabinet angles to the desired position. All VTX A12 accessories are designed to be lightweight, durable and sized to fit both USA and International truck dimensions simplifying transport and logistics.
VTX A12 features improved acoustic technology that takes legendary JBL sound to an even higher level. The new high-frequency (HF) section features three uniquely designed drivers that combine the HF phasing-plug and waveguide into one part, yielding better tolerances and increased sensitivity above 6 kHz, while reducing distortion and overall weight. A newly designed Radiation Boundary Integrator (RBI) combines four 5” mid-frequency drivers into the high-frequency waveguide and provides a smooth horn surface for the high frequency section. A lightweight 12” low frequency woofer (LF) features a 4th-generation Differential Drive design, new dual NEO dual-coil magnet arrangement and a host of proprietary JBL technologies for increased excursion, power handling and sensitivity. These elements combine to deliver a system with the highest output per weight, great low-frequency extension, and 90 degree directivity down to 300 Hz.
“The VTX A12 sounds really even right away, and the rigging system is very easy to fly, from start to finish,”said Jon Loeser, FOH engineer for award-winning country trio Rascal Flatts. “I love it, just for the pure power of it. It’s got more meat in the low end than any other speaker box out in the market.
”VTX A12 also features an updated exterior. The full-face grill design protects the loudspeaker components and helps the system achieve a higher Ingress Protection rating (IP55). Even more extensive weatherization is available if desired. The full-face grill also reduces the number of exposed components, allowing the loudspeaker to be finished in a variety of color options to better suit fixed install applications.
Over the last four months, VTX A12 systems have been beta tested in the field with leading Front-of-House engineers, Systems Engineers and Rental Companies to ensure the factory presets offer great results right out of the box. Additionally, VTX A12 offers a variety of accessories and new software tools for control and prediction. Industry-leading JBL by HARMAN customer service rounds out the package, offering a complete solution for tour sound professionals.
Availability
JBL VTX A12 will be available in April 2017.
JBL by HARMAN is distributed in the UK and ROI by Sound Technology Ltd. For more information please call Sound Technology Ltd on 01462 480000 or visit www.soundtech.co.uk/professional-audio/jbl
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