Power Reserve - Martin Audio WAVEFRONT COMPACT - APPLICATIONS GUIDE Application Manual

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CONTENTS
Amplifier load tolerance
An efficient subwoofer system in live concert conditions can act as a surprisingly
dynamic and complex load. Most modern touring power amplifiers claim 2 ohm
capabilities but make sure your amplifier is also capable of driving reactive (ie
inductive or capacitive) loads without prematurely clipping or developing output
stage crossover distortion.
Mains safety!
A fully qualified technican should check mains safety and phase voltage before the
system is patched.

Power reserve

Most power amplifier specifications are based on bench measurements made using
stable, high current mains supplies and well defined loads. Amplifiers sound best
when they have plenty of current in reserve for percussive peaks and sustained bass
notes.
1)
2)
3)
4)
Gain or level settings
Gain switches
If you are lucky enough to have amplifiers with user gain switches, set them all to
identical positions. A voltage gain in the range 23-33dB will provide a good balance
of system headroom and noise (assuming professional audio equipment is in use
FOH).
MARTIN AUDIO - APPLICATIONS GUIDE, WAVEFRONT COMPACT SERIES
Try to ensure that the mains supply stays within the amplifier manufacturer's
specified range from no load to maximum load.
An electrical technician should check the mains supply vs demand using an
accurate rms voltage meter.
If unfamiliar generators are being used the electrical technician should check
the mains waveform (using a portable 'scope-meter) to make sure that it is
sinusoidal and not crawling with spikes or interference.
Avoid driving too many WSXs in parallel. I would suggest no more than two
so that the power amplifier's 2 ohm spec is kept in reserve for musical peaks.
Avoid using power amplifiers in bridged mode. Most commercial power
amplifiers are optimised for 2-channel operation. It is usually better to use the
appropriate amplifier in 2-channel mode than to use an inadequate amplifier in
bridged mode.
All material © 2007. Martin Audio Ltd. Subject to change without notice.
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