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Thank you for purchasing JBL VTX Series products In more than 75 years of JBL innovations, the VTX Series stands apart as a milestone in the practical application of cre- ative engineering. VTX products herald the next generation in line array loudspeaker systems: a new era in performance, system integration and user friendliness.
STANDARD DESCRIPTION TEST AGENCY Applies to machinery and lays down essential health and 2006/42/EC safety requirements. Tested at JBL Professional MACHINERY DIRECTIVE ISO12100 Applies to loudspeaker and lays down essential health 2014/35/EC and safety requirements. Tested at JBL Professional...
None of the information in this section should be used without first obtaining competent advice with respect to applicability to a given circumstance. None of the information presented herein is intended as a representation or warranty on the part of JBL. Anyone making use of this information assumes all liability arising from such use.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual JBL is not responsible for the application of its products for any purpose or the misuse of this information for any purpose. Furthermore, JBL is not responsible for the abuse of its products caused by avoiding compliance with inspection and maintenance procedures or any other abuse.
Designs exceeding the safe limit and up to the maximum limit, are possible, but the JBL Line Array Calculator software should be used to check mechanical safety for the given configuration.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 4 - SYSTEM COMPONENTS VTX A8 VTX B18 VTX B28 VTX A8 AF EB | Extension Bar VTX A8 AF | Array Frame VTX A8 SB | Suspension Bar VTX A8 MF| Mini Frame VTX A8 VT | Vertical Transporter VTX A8 VT CVR | Cover...
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VTX B18 VT CVR | Soft Cover VTX A8 BP | Base Plate CAUTION: Always use components and accessories specified and approved by JBL Professional. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart to avoid injury from tip-over.
5.1 LINE ARRA Y CALCULA TOR 3 Line Array Calculator 3 acoustical prediction software is used for the design and mechanical validation of VTX series line array systems. Using LAC-3 is a three-step process. First, venue dimensions are defined using either X/Y/Z coordinates or the fast distance/angle method.
5.2 ARRA Y LINK JBL Array Link is a mobile companion app that works with LAC-3 software to assist technicians deploying VTX Series systems in the field. Array Link uses a QR code to directly transfer mechanical data in real time from an array design created in LAC-3 to a mobile phone running iOS®...
This message is presented when the specified array design exceeds the mechanical limits set by the JBL team for the speakers or selected accessories. Array designs that trigger this message should not be used under any conditions, as they can lead to hardware damage and/or injury.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 6 - A8 RIGGING SYSTEM OVERVIEW VTX A8 cabinets include a next-generation rigging system that is easy to use, simple to understand, and highly accurate. VTX A8 enclo- sures are transported vertically on carts of four using the VTX A8 VT Vertical Transporter cart accessory. During transportation, all four cabinets travel collapsed and set to the 10-degree position.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 6.2 ANGLE LOCK MECHANISM VTX A-Series cabinets include an innovative Angle Lock mechanism that automatically engages to fix the angles at the selected po- sitions when the system is suspended. Angles can be preselected while the system is still on the ground, eliminating extra steps. The Angle Lock mechanism consists of two main parts: the red LOCKING LEVER and the black RELEASE BUTTON.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 6.3 ANGLE SELECTION Every VTX A8 has an Angle Selection panel on either side of the cabinet. These panels are used to select the cabinet-to-cabinet splay angle. The panels offer eleven unique positions, labeled in degrees. The positions range from 0.25 to 10 degrees. VTX A8 ANGLE OPTIONS: 0.25°, 0.5°, 1°, 1.5°, 2°, 2.5°, 3°, 4°, 6°, 8°, 10°...
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 7 - A8 TRANSPORT A TION The VTX A8 VT Vertical Transporter carries four VTX A8 cabinets for travel. All four cabinets should be set to the 10-degree (STORAGE) position when stacked on the VTX A8 VT to secure the rigging for transportation. The optional VTX A8 VT CVR cover can be used for additional protection.
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VTX A8 | Rigging Manual STEPS: • Lower the next A8 cabinet onto the first enclosure, making sure all four corners are aligned and the rigging arms engaged. • Use the two quick release pins on each side to secure the cabinet to the A8 cabinet below it. •...
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 7.2 INST ALLING THE TOP PART OF THE VTX A8 VT The VT-TOP connects to the top cabinet of an A8 stack to form a robust and defined footprint that stabilizes the carts during trans- portation.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 7.3 STORING THE VTX A8 VT Once an A8 stack has been deployed, the VT-TOP can attach to the VTX A8 VT for storage. Several carts can be stacked together for efficient storage. STEPS: • Line up the corners of the VTX A8 VT and the VT-TOP.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 7.4 ST ACKING THE VTX A8 VT WITH THE VT -TOP When the VTX A8 VT and VT-TOP are attached, several assemblies can be stacked together for storage. STEPS: • Rotate the VT wheels inward to point towards the opposite end of the cart. •...
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 7.5 ST ACKING THE VTX A8 VT If necessary, the VTX A8 VT can be stacked for storage without using the VT-TOP. STEPS: • Rotate the VT wheels inward to point towards the opposite end of the cart. •...
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 7.6 GROUND ST ACKING USING THE VT -TOP The VT-TOP can be used to create small ground-stacked arrays of one to three VTX A8 cabinets. This can be especially useful when small A8 arrays are used in applications such as front fill or auxiliary arrays. In this configuration, the VT-TOP and A8 cabinets are placed upside down and the VT-TOP is used as the base of the ground stacked array.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 8 - ARRA Y FRAME AND EXTENSION BAR The VTX A8 AF is a lightweight array frame used for suspending VTX A8 and B18 cabinets. The frame was designed to operate in a single-point, front-to-back, or side-by-side suspension mode using the VTX A8 AF EB Extension Bar. One Extension Bar is included with the frame and a second Extension Bar can be added to facilitate side-by-side suspension.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 8.2 EXTENSION BAR OVERVIEW The Array Frame Extension Bar is used to connect the VTX A8 AF Array Frame to the suspension points. One Extension Bar is included with the VTX A8 AF and additional Extension Bars can be purchased and used depending on the application. The extension is compat- ible with 5/8-inch shackles;...
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 8.3 A TT ACHING THE EXTENSION BAR The Extension Bar includes two tab positions and two quick release pins for attaching the VTX A8 AF Array Frame. STEPS: • Line up the Extension Bar with the connection tabs on the Array Frame. •...
60. The example below shows how the real and “virtual” positions are spaced across the extension bar. TIP: Refer to JBL’s Line Array Calculator software to determine the best shackle position and attachment combination to achieve the required array angle.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 8.5 EXTENSION BAR STORAGE POSITIONS The Extension Bar can be stored at the top of the Array Frame for transportation and storage when not in use. Guides are available at the top of the Array Frame to guide the Extension Bar to the storage positions. The two large QRPs are used to secure the Extension Bar on to the Array Frame.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 8.6 EXTENSION BAR POSITIONING When the Extension Bar is attached to the Array Frame in its normal orientation, it extends towards the rear of the array, permitting the maximum possible downtilt for the array. The Extension Bar also can be attached in a reversed position, which provides the maximum possible uptilt.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 8.7 USING DUAL EXTENSION BARS The VTX A8 AF Array Frame can be used with either one or two Extension Bars. The Array Frame ships from the factory with one Ex- tension Bar; an additional Extension Bar can be purchased for use in scenarios where side-by-side suspension points are needed. The standalone version of the Extension Bar (Part# VTX A8 AF EB) includes one Extension Bar, two additional quick release pins, and all hardware (tabs, bolts, and nuts) required for mounting to the VTX A8 Array Frame.
The VTX A8 AF Array Frame includes a mounting bracket that enables installing a laser/inclinometer in the Array Frame. Front and back laser exit holes in the Array Frame allow the light to shine through. The included laser bracket was designed to work with the JBL VTX LZ laser unit, and the third-party TEQSAS LAP-TEQ and KSG Sensors RECLINE laser inclinometer units.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 8.9 EXTENSION BAR USE CASES The VTX A8 AF Array Frame can be deployed in a number of configurations using one or two VTX A8 Extension Bars. It is important to note that only certain configurations are correct and safe for suspension of VTX A8 and B18 arrays. The images below illustrate proper configurations for attaching VTX A8 Extension Bars, and where suspension points sound be attached to them.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 8.10 A TT ACHING THE ARRA Y FRAME Below are the steps for attaching a VTX A8 AF to a stack of four VTX A8 enclosures. STEPS: • For easiest attachment, separate the Array Frame from the Extension Bar. •...
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 9 - DEPLOYING ST ANDALONE A8 SYSTEMS Suspending standalone VTX A8 arrays is a simple and straightforward process. Carefully follow the steps below to correctly and safely suspend an array. Instructions on suspending mixed A8/B18 arrays can be found later in this document. 9.1 PRESELECT THE ANGLES STEPS: •...
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 9.2 PRE-LOCKING THE ANGLES (OPTIONAL STEP) This step is not required, but provides a convenient shortcut. After selecting the angles, the A8 cabinets can be extended and locked while still on the ground. This can make connecting flown cabinets to cabinets on the ground much easier, since the rear rigging con- nection points sit at a much higher elevation enabling them to connect more easily to the flown arrays .
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 9.3 SUSPEND THE FIRST ST ACK STEPS: • Check that all red Locking Levers are in the locked position, then engage the hoist to lift the array off the ground. As the hoist lifts, each cabinet will expand to the correct angle. As each cabinet reaches the correct inter-enclosure angle , it stops ex- panding.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 9.4 A TT ACH THE NEXT ST ACK STEPS: • Raise the suspended cluster of VTX A8 cabinets and align the next cart of cabinets below the suspended cluster. • Once the clusters are aligned, carefully lower the suspended cluster until the front attachment points are nearly touching. Check that the attachment points are aligned, then lower the suspended cluster until the front attachment points join together.
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VTX A8 | Rigging Manual STEPS: • After the two front QRPs have been secured, lower the flown array until the two rear connection points join together. Once touching, insert the two rear QRPs to secure the clusters together. If the angle of the flown cluster is too steep (too much down- tilt) and the rear connection points are too far apart, follow the steps shown below to safely connect the clusters.
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VTX A8 | Rigging Manual In some cases, the angle of the flown array may be too steep to fully connect to the cluster on the ground. This can happen when as- sembling large arrays or when the frame pick-point is too far back as shown in the example below. In this situation, a two-step process is used to engage all four connection points for the array.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 10 - DISASSEMBLING AN A8 ARRA Y 10.1 OPEN THE ANGLE LOCKS AND A TT ACH THE VT STEPS: • Safely lower the entire array to a workable height. • Press the Release Buttons on all four lower cabinets to unlock the rigging mechanisms. This enables the bottom four cabinets to collapse back to the 10-degree position once the array is lowered to the ground.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 10.2 CLOSE THE ANGLE LOCKS AND MOVE PINS TO STORAGE STEPS: • With the VT completely secured, lower the array until the front wheels of the VT touch the ground. The array should start to roll backwards slightly and, as the array is lowered, the inter-enclosure angles of the bottom four boxes will close to the 10-degree position.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 10.3 REPEA T STEPS TO DISCONNECT THE NEXT FOUR CABINETS Repeat the previous steps to disconnect and store the next four cabinets of the array.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 11 - MIXED ARRA YS WITH A8 AND B18 VTX A8 cabinets are mechanically and acoustically compatible with VTX B18 single-18-inch subwoofers. All A8 suspension accessories are compatible with the VTX B18, enabling mixed arrays with VTX A8s suspended under B18 subwoofers to be created. This section of the manual covers creating mixed VTX A8/B18 arrays.
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VTX A8 | Rigging Manual With the frame properly connected, lift the B18 off the ground and disconnect the Vertical Transport cart. STEPS: • Use the electric hoists to raise the B18s off the ground. • Once suspended, remove the VT by first removing the front two QRPs and then the two at the rear. •...
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 11.2 A TT ACHING A8 TO B18 Once the VT has been disconnected from the flown array of B18s, the first cluster of A8 cabinets can be added to the array. Note that the first VTX A8 connected to a B18 subwoofer is always pinned to the 4° position. This allows the top A8 cabinet to sit parallel with the Array Frame.
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VTX A8 | Rigging Manual Once the VT has been disconnected from the flown array of B18s, the first cluster of A8 cabinets can be added to the array. Note that the first VTX A8 connected to a B18 subwoofer is always pinned to the 4° position. This allows the top A8 cabinet to sit parallel with the Array Frame.
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VTX A8 | Rigging Manual STEPS: • Raise the suspended cluster of A8 and B18 cabinets, then align the cart of A8s on the ground underneath the suspended cluster. • Once the clusters are aligned, carefully lower the suspended cluster until the front attachment points are nearly touching. Check that the attachment points are aligned, then lower the suspended cluster until the front attachment points join.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 11.3 DE-RIGGING THE ARRA Y The steps to de-rig a mixed array are the same as for a standalone A8 array. Follow the steps in chapter 10 – Disassembling an A8 Array to safely de-rig the array. 11.4 MIXED ARRA Y SAFETY NOTE To create a rigid and secure structure when building mixed arrays with A8 and B18 cabinets, each cabinet should always use all four of the connection points corresponding to the points connecting the array to the array frame.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 12 - THE VTX A8 SUSPENSION BAR The VTX A8 SB is a lightweight suspension bar that can be used as an array frame or to implement pull-back for VTX A8 or B18 arrays. When used for pull-back, the VTX A8 SB enables more downtilt than is possible using the VTX A8 AF alone, by attaching it to the bottom cabinet of an array and then connecting to the suspension point for the rear of the array.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 12.2 VTX A8 SB SUSPENSION BAR A TT ACHMENT T ABS The VTX A8 SB Suspension Bar is designed to connect to the top or bottom of a suspended array of VTX A8s or B18s. When connected to the bottom (lowest cabinet in the array), the array attachment tabs must be released from their storage positions in order to attach to a VTX A8 or B18 cabinet.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 12.3 VTX A8 SB FOR PULL-BACK The primary role of the VTX A8 SB Suspension Bar is as a pull-back attachment at the bottom of an array for configurations requiring a significant amount of downtilt. In this case, the VTX A8 AF connects to the primary suspension point at the top of the array, with the VTX A8 SB mounted to the bottom of the array and lifted by a second motor point at the rear of the array.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 12.4 USING TWO A8 SUSPENSION BARS Two VTX A8 SB Suspension Bars can be mounted to the top and bottom of a VTX A8 array at the same time. This configuration can reduce cost and overall array weight when the flexibility of a VTX A8 AF Array Frame is not needed. Fixed installations often benefit from this arrangement.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 12.5 WHEN TO USE A PULL-BACK The use of a pull-back is common when the center of gravity (CoG) of an array falls outside the footprint of the Array Frame. Typically, long curved arrays with a large downtilt qualify for this condition. When this occurs, LAC displays an error to indicate that the array frame alone cannot achieve the down angle needed for the design (Example 1 - No pull-back).
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 12.6 USING A SINGLE VTX A8 SB The VTX A8 SB Suspension Bar can also be used as the main suspension frame, but this configuration is not recommended for regular use. While the SB is simpler, lighter, and more cost-effective than using a VTX A8 AF, when using the SB the center of gravity (CoG) of the array must perfectly line up with the shackle attachment position on the suspension bar.
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VTX A8 | Rigging Manual Below is an example from LAC of a scenario appropriate to using the VTX A8 SB as the main array frame. LAC Venue Example The venue geometry in Examples 4 and 5 calls for an array design in which the array CoG is perfectly lined up with the rear suspension point of the top A8 enclosure (Example 4 - CoG with array frame).
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 12.7 SUSPENSION BAR AND MIXED ARRA YS The VTX A8 SB can used as a pull back for mixed arrays, but not in place of an Array Frame at the top of the array. In mixed array situa- tions, an Array Frame is always used at the top to provide the structural rigidity needed for mechanical safety.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 13 - THE VTX A8 MINI FRAME The VTX A8 MF Mini Frame is a lightweight, compact and inexpensive array frame used for suspending smaller VTX A8 and VTX B18 arrays. The three-piece design is comprised of two side arms and one spreader bar. The side arms connect to the cabinets, and the spreader bar can be pinned to one of the 22 pick-point positions, providing excellent tilt resolution.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 13.2 MINI FRAME STORAGE CONFIGURA TION The Mini Frame can be disassembled and pinned together in a small and compact package for storage and transportation. Follow the instructions below to set the Mini Frame in storage mode. STEPS: •...
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 13.3 A TT ACHING THE MINI FRAME TO A8 Here are the steps to attach a Mini Frame to an A8 cabinet: STEPS: • Check that the top cabinet angle is at the 4º setting. •...
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 13.4 MINI FRAME SUSPENSION OPTIONS The VTX A8 Mini Frame can be used in single-point configurations using the center shackle position of the spreader bar. Alternatively, the two side shackle positions can be used to facilitate dual-point configurations. When a single-point is used, the side shackle positions can be used for safety attachment and vice-versa.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 13.5 SELECTING SPREADER-BAR POSITIONS Each of the Mini Frame side arms includes 22 hole positions for attaching the spreader bar. The position of the spreader bar determines the overall site angle of the array. The further back the spreader bar is attached, the more down angle is generated and vice versa. The exact position of the spreader bar for a given angle is determined using Line Array Calculator 3 software.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 13.6 MINI FRAME AND RC500 The Mini Frame can be used in combination with the VTX RC500 rotating clamp. The VTX RC500 is a universal truss/pipe adapter designed for vertically suspending speaker arrays from standard truss structures or pipes. The RC500 supports arrays of up to 500 kg (1,100 lbs) and is compatible with array frames that support ½-inch shackles, such as the VTX A8 MF.
50 mm (2 in) through hole on each side for easy use with ratchet straps. Configurations and load conditions for using the VTX A8 BP can be obtained using JBL’s LAC-3 prediction software application. 14.1 BASE PLA TE OVERVIEW...
The Base Plate angle selection plates include nine pin positions, allowing for a range of angles from -15 to +5 degrees in 2.5-degree steps. This facilitates selection of the most appropriate position for establishing the required array down angle. JBL’s Line Array Calcu- lator software is used to determine the best position and check array safety.
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 14.4 VTX B18 GND Each Base Plate ships with four stabilization feet that connect to the lowest B18 in an array. The feet attach to the B18 using the four corner quick release pins and provide additional stability for taller arrays. The feet are only needed when the Base Plate is used in conjunction with the VTX B18 .
14.5 ASSEMBLING GROUND-ST ACKED ARRA YS The Base Plate attaches to any JBL VTX subwoofer with an M20 pole mount adapter/plate. Before attaching the Base Plate, assemble the subwoofer array/stack and place it with the desired location and position. The Base Plate connects to the subwoofers using the included M20 knob.
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VTX A8 | Rigging Manual STEPS: • Place the first A8 onto the Base Plate and pin the front two corners. • Lift the back of the A8 and position the angle selection plate at the desired location. Pin the rear two corners. CAUTION: Safe limits for ground-stacked arrays always assume that the stacking surface (floor and stage) is flat .
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VTX A8 | Rigging Manual STEPS: • Select the desired inter-cabinet angle for the first A8 and extend the rigging arm to set the angle on the first A8. • Stack the next A8 on top, pin the cabinets together, and set the angle for the next cabinet. •...
VTX A8 | Rigging Manual 14.7 A TT ACHING THE BASE PLA TE ONTO A STRUCTURE The Base Plate can be permanently attached to a structure like a stage or platform using its four through-holes. This is especially useful for permanent installations or other fixed applications where a ground-stacked A8 system is needed, but not often moved. In such sit- uations, the base plate is permanently attached to the structure and subwoofers are not used beneath the array.
JBL continually engages in research related to product improvement. Some materials, production methods and design refinements are introduced into existing products without notice as a routine expression of that philosophy. For this reason, any current JBL product may differ in some respect from its published description, but will always equal or exceed the original design specifications unless otherwise stated.
3: Weight includes EB only. Shackles and other rigging parts not included JBL continually engages in research related to product improvement. Some materials, production methods and design refinements are introduced into existing products without notice as a routine expression of that philosophy. For...
JBL continually engages in research related to product improvement. Some materials, production methods and design refinements are introduced into existing products without notice as a routine expression of that philosophy. For this reason, any current JBL product may differ in some respect from its published description, but will always equal or exceed the original design specifications unless otherwise stated.
2: Weight does not include the VTX A8 VT CVR soft cover JBL continually engages in research related to product improvement. Some materials, production methods and design refinements are introduced into existing products without notice as a routine expression of that philosophy. For...
JBL continually engages in research related to product improvement. Some materials, production methods and design refinements are introduced into existing products without notice as a routine expression of that philosophy. For this reason, any current JBL product may differ in some respect from its published description, but will always equal or exceed the original design specifications unless otherwise stated.
JBL continually engages in research related to product improvement. Some materials, production methods and design refinements are introduced into existing products without notice as a routine expression of that philosophy. For this reason, any current JBL product may differ in some respect from its published description, but will always equal or exceed the original design specifications unless otherwise stated.
JBL continually engages in research related to product improvement. Some materials, production methods and design refinements are introduced into existing products without notice as a routine expression of that philosophy. For this reason, any current JBL product may differ in some respect from its published description, but will always equal or exceed the original design specifications unless otherwise stated.
+1 (844) 776-4899 www.jblpro.com PROFESSIONAL CONT ACTS, OUTSIDE THE U.S.A.: Contact the JBL Professional Distributor in your area. A complete list of JBL Professional international distributors is provided at our U.S.A. website: www.jblpro.com HARMAN Professional EMEA HARMAN Professional APAC...
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