Introduced earlier this year, the JBL Professional VTX line array loudspeaker series represents the evolution of the VerTec line, combined with several new technology initiatives.
VTX also benefits from the collective proficiency of the Harman Pro audio group in integrating power, processing, system tuning, networking and control aspects in a package suitable for both touring and fixed install applications.
The first product in the VTX series is the full-size, 3-way V25 line array element, which includes dual 2267H 15-inch, 2,000-watt LF and four 2169H 8-inch, 350-watt MF cone transducers, and three new D2430K 3-inch voice coil (1.5-inch exit), 200-watt D2 dual diaphragm, dual driver transducers mounted on a proprietary waveguide.
All sections have a nominal impedance of 8 ohms (2 x 8 ohms LF), and system frequency response is 41 Hz to 18 kHz (+/- 3 dB). Horizontal dispersion is 90 degrees, with vertical dispersion determined by the specific array shape which is, in turn, defined by selecting inter-enclosure angles from 0-10 degrees at 1 degree increments.
The V25 enclosure measures 48.2 x 16.3 x 24.2 inches and weighs 182 pounds. A unique cast aluminum front baffle with integral corner ports enables the tightly-packed component configuration to provide optimum power density along with enhanced structural rigidity and heat transfer.
The front baffle was also designed to minimize enclosure height which, combined with the physically-relieved mid-high section and optimized waveguide design, allows for proper vertical coupling at inter-enclosure angles up to 10 degrees.
Enclosures incorporate an enhanced version of the SAFE suspension system found in VerTec, with front flip hinges and captive rear hinge bars that utilize a proprietary Angle Stop Mechanism (ASM) for fast, efficient and secure assembly while eliminating mechanical vibration.
Two VTX subwoofer options are available, both featuring dual 2269H 18-inch, 2,000-watt differential drive woofers with 3.5-inch peak-to-peak excursion capability. The S28 sub can be ground stacked or suspended with V25 arrays and is cardioid-arrayable for improved rear rejection.
The G28 sub is ground stackable only, with additional enclosure volume and optimal port tuning that extends LF response down to 22 Hz (-10 dB). In addition, the G28 features a unique V-shaped transducer configuration where inverted differential drive motors are oriented outwards to provide enhanced cooling and reduced power compression.
As an alternative to the ergonomic VTX dolly board options that are currently available for all models, Vertical Transporter accessories are under development for the transport of four V25 enclosures or three S28 enclosures in either front-firing or cardioid mode.
All cone transducers in VTX (including subwoofers) utilize JBL’s dual-voice coil, dual-magnetic gap Differential Drive design, designed to reduce driver weight while enhancing frequency response, power output and distortion.
Heat sinks are integrated into the cast aluminum driver frame, and the neodymium magnets are placed inside the dual voice coil assembly, completing the magnetic circuit without the heavy surrounding steel structure of other designs.
Since voice coils are wound in opposite directions, a dynamic braking effect results and this helps to keep voice coils within their linear operating region and centered within their respective magnetic field gaps.
Power handling is 2,000 watts AES for the 2267H 15-inch transducers used in V25 and the 18-inch 2269H transducers employed in S28 and G28.
