Adamson has announced the launch of VGt, a large-format line array incorporating eight transducers, amplification, a networked DSP endpoint and Autolock rigging into a lightweight and compact package.
The first product in the Vergence Group, VGt is designed to serve large audiences in arenas, stadiums, festivals, performance halls and more, and it’s part of an ecosystem that includes brackets, dollies, accessories, and covers, all designed to work seamlessly with the company’s Array Intelligence (AI) software. This combination is engineered to enhance design, deployment, control, and monitoring capabilities in both mobile and installation environments.
Each array element incorporates new patent-pending M140 MF compression drivers for the mid frequency range. The M140 uses Kevlar to form the lightweight and very stiff diaphragm that’s suspended to a neodymium magnet. Because it operates like a piston throughout it’s range of excursion, it offers a high degree of transient response and low distortion over the entire vocal clarity range.
“Over the years, we have always managed to innovate with designs that lead the field in loudspeaker development, with a focus on mid-range,” states president/CEO Brock Adamson. “When I envisioned the M140, the concept was to bring the power of our ground-breaking M200 transducer to a concentric line array enclosure, while improving on the performance. What our team has managed to produce with the VGt outperforms the best that the market has to offer.”
Both the M140 and the 3-inch high-frequency compression drivers are loaded to optimized sound chambers designed to produce a unified wavefront. Meanwhile, the low-frequency section contains both direct and directional components to achieve a multi-mode LF dispersion pattern. Specifically, to offer a uniform dispersion pattern down to the lowest frequency, VGt uses a combination of two forward-facing ND13-S (13-inch) woofers combined with two ND10-LM (10-inch) woofers side facing for additional LF headroom and to achieve the available dispersion patterns.
All LF drivers utilize neodymium magnets and Kevlar cones to deliver clean and punchy low LF energy in a very small footprint. Further, to custom tailor the LF radiation pattern to their needs, users can select cardioid, hypercardioid and omnidirectional dispersion.
VGt is equipped with custom-made onboard class-D amplification as well as an intelligent networked DSP endpoint. For more efficient cabling, all necessary connections can be daisy chained, including power, analog audio and redundant network containing Milan digital audio and AES70 control data.
Also included is Adamson’s Optimization feature designed to provide broad-band coverage correction without adding latency for a more optimal listening experience. Using the ArrayIntelligence software allows for seamless combination of VGt with CS-Series, while the Adamson Bridge closes the gap to integrate all legacy ground amplified systems. Further, Blueprint software, a renewed design of Blueprint AV, supplies accurate simulation of systems.
The cabinet construction uses marine grade birch plywood as well as aircraft grade aluminum and steel. Autolock rigging allows the system to be safely and easily flown by a single engineer. Cabinets measure 13.3 x 51.4 x 22.1 inches (HxWxD) and weigh 188 pounds. The dolly design optimizes truck space and includes a flat-top platform option for additional stacking flexibility, accommodating both 3-high and 4-high dolly configurations.
With energy efficient and lightweight electronics in each loudspeaker, rack-space is reduced. As an example, an array of 18 VGt require four rack units, and only six power and network “home runs.” In contrast, current rack amplified arrays similar in size can sometimes require more than 20 rack units and offer less headroom and control. As loudspeaker cables are virtually eliminated, there’s no cable loss and longer home runs are possible without impacting quality.
An underhang bracket expands VGt’s functionality, allowing users to fly CS10 under the VGt. It also doubles as a pull-back frame and a secure point for the array during harsh weather conditions. A variety of additional accessories are offered, and elements are available as standard in both black and white, with RAL colors available on demand.
“After years of in-house development and testing, the launch of VGt starts a pilot phase with a handful of exclusive partners extensively using the VGt on the road,” says Pieter van Hoogdalem, business development strategist. “The first deployments received nothing but positive feedback. Throughout the coming year we will be organizing live demonstrations to give everyone ample opportunity to experience VGt in action.”
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