System Configurations - Martin Audio W8 User Manual

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SYSTEM CONFIGURATIONS

Wavefront Touring enclosures can be used with dedicated analogue
controllers such as the Martin Audio MX5 which performs system specific
equalisation, crossover and limiter functions. More complex set-ups will
benefit from the use of a digital controller such as the Martin Audio DX1.
Wavefront Touring systems can also be used with BSS and XTA digital
controllers.
Whichever controller is used, it is important that it has fast attack limiters to
prevent amplifiers from clipping. This requires that the controller's limiter
thresholds be set to match the sensitivity of the amplifier. A system
operated in this way with amplifiers having a power rating as recommended
and used by experienced professional sound engineers should be
sufficiently protected from overdriving. It is suggested that you refer to the
controller's user guide for further information on how to set limiter
thresholds.
The nominal horizontal coverage pattern of the W8 is 55 degrees. This has
been found to be the optimum figure to meet the requirements of both small
scale and larger scale use. The optimum horizontal inter-cabinet angle
between enclosures is 35 degrees between cabinet centre-lines. With the
rear edges touching, this is equivalent to a 10" (250mm) gap between
cabinet fronts.
Butting up the cabinet sides is not recommended. It will reduce the
horizontal splay angle to 15 degrees which, though giving increased level
on-axis, will result in greater interference between adjacent enclosures.
Widening the splay angle to 45 degrees will increase the overall dispersion
but results in some loss of level on-axis.
The normal crossover point between the W8 and W8S is 120Hz. For
simplicity, the separate horn and reflex sections can be driven with the
same signal and amplifier channel. This will result in effective summation
of the separate sections up to the crossover point of 120Hz. However, if
the W8S is run with signal delay on the 18" and separate amplifier
channels, a further 3dB or so of output will be available in the 120-180Hz
region because of improved summation.
Wavefront Touring systems combined with the appropriately configured
controller exhibit an essentially flat on-axis frequency response.
Equalisation to compensate for a particular acoustic environment may be
performed where required. Where loudspeakers are arrayed, they may
benefit from a degree of equalisation to reduce the effect of the low/mid
build up and tilting of the response inherent in the use of multiple arrayed
enclosures.
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Martin Audio – WAVEFRONT TOURING SERIES