Products

Martin Audio Debuts Wavefront Precision Series Longbow

Latest full-scale line array offers a three-way, bi-amped design for large-scale touring and installation applications.

Martin Audio announces of its latest optimized line array, adding to the Wavefront Precision Series with the Longbow (WPL) edition.

With the launch of the Wavefront Precision Series (WPM and WPC) back in 2017, the concept of scalable resolution was born — harnessing the optimization technology behind Martin Audio’s self-powered MLA Series systems in a new line array format with a scalable approach to external system amplification.

Delivering signature sound quality, coverage consistency and control in an affordable package, this uniquely flexible and upgradeable approach has been rapidly adopted by sound rental and installation companies worldwide to become the company’s fastest ever selling line array series.

Wavefront Precision Longbow (WPL) now brings this performance, optimization, flexibility and control to large-scale touring and installation applications.

Designed as a complete system with external iKON multi-channel amplifiers, automated DISPLAY optimization software and VU-NET control platform, WPL provides financial accessibility to touring and install sound — from stadium concert and outdoor festivals to arena and house of worship installations.

The complete system philosophy guarantees that WPL arrays perform predictably to the design maximum, as well as ensuring that they are compatible with other WPL systems throughout the world.

WPL is a full-scale line array that is capable of high output for its modest size and weight. A three-way, bi-amped system, WPL’s output is achieved by utilizing Martin Audio’s trademark horn-loading technology across all frequency bands — increasing the acoustic output of the low frequency section as well as the midrange and HF.

It incorporates 2 x 12-inch (300mm) drivers with Hybrid horn/reflex loading, 2 x 6.5-inch (165mm) cone drivers on a midrange horn which covers the vocal frequency range from 300Hz to 4kHz, and 3 x 1-inch (25mm) exit HF drivers operating from 4kHz upwards.

Each section features innovative horn-loading techniques and refinements which raise the acoustic performance of WPL — both in terms of output and smooth 90° horizontal coverage patterns of the mid and HF horns. Sonically, WPL’s horizontal dispersion pattern translates to a consistent frequency response off-axis, with minimal variation from the on-axis response.

The maximum peak outputs of the LF, Mid and HF sections are 139dB, 140dB and 145dB per enclosure at 1 meter and 6dB crest factor respectively — ensuring that a WPL array will meet the most demanding requirements for throw and clarity in large venues and outdoor events.

Dom Harter, managing director, adds, “Martin Audio enjoyed a record sales year in 2018 and we will strive hard to continue this trend in 2019. WPL is a compelling proposition combining superlative sound, optimization and control with quick deployment and trucking efficiency, all in an affordable package that we believe will delight customers.Importantly, this is also a shipping product with the first systems having already been delivered to two new US customers and we have taken orders for more systems around the world.

“Details of all these customer acquisitions will be announced in due course, but suffice to say, this is a system ready now for the new touring season alongside many installation opportunities.”

WPL will be on display at ISE, followed by demonstrations at Martin Audio UK Open Days in March.

Martin Audio