The E-Series from d&b audiotechnik includes six coaxial models with woofers starting at a miniscule 4 inches up to 12 inches.
All have rotatable horns, with dispersion ranging from 100 degrees conical in the two smallest version to the option of 110-degree or 80-degree horizontal(by 50 degrees) in the 12-inch model.
d&b’s growing stable of amplifiers/controllers supply optimized configurations for each model, with the DSP providing loudspeaker management, switchable filter functions, remote capabilities, and user-definable controls.
The pole-mount socket is concealed, and handle covers are offered for fixed install applications. Sub options include E12X-SUB (single-12) and E15X-SUB (single-15) as well as the cardioid B4-SUB (single-12/single-15).
The TT+ Series from RCF, a range of touring and theatre options that also includes line arrays and stage monitors, incorporates the company’s latest transducer technology plus next-generation class D amplification and DSP. Passive models are also available. Full-range include 8-, 12-, and 15-inch versions.
The 12-inch T22, which can be run in either passive or bi-amp modes, has a newly designed 3-inch titanium diaphragm compression driver mounted on a rotatable 90- by 40-degree constant directivity horn. The driver utilizes proprietary technology that delivers controlled break-up modes for improved performance at higher frequencies. In addition, the company’s LICC (Low Impedance Compensated Crossover Network) is optimized to match the directivity of the HF horn and to smooth the transition through the crossover region. Companion subs include the TTS118 (single-18) and TTS218 (dual-18).
The DSR Series from Yamaha offers a choice of three active full-range models (single 12-inch and single/dual-15-inch), all with a proprietary Wide Dispersion CD Waveguide Horn offering 90- by 60-degree dispersion and designed present sound that expands in a more rectangular pattern for enhanced projection and coverage.
All models are Xtreme D-Powered with class D amplification (850/450 watts LF/HF) that has a switching-mode power supply with power factor correction (PFC) as well as FIR-X filter tuning that optimizes frequency and phase response while adjusting the time alignment between the HF and LF transducers. Proprietary D-CONTOUR performs intelligent EQ optimization, helping to maximize SPL while maintaining musicality. A nifty white LED behind the front grille illuminates while the power is on and also indicates the onset of system limiting. The companion sub is the active DSR118W (single-18).
The ETX Series of powered loudspeakers from Electro-Voice leads several families of portable 2-way options the company’s unveiled over the last few years. The ETX stable includes 10-, 12- and 15-inch models, all joined by a 1.25-inch HF titanium compression driver. There’s also a 3-way design— 15-inch with a 6.5-inch MF driver and the same HF driver. In each model, the HF driver works with an SST (Signal Synchronized Transducers) waveguide design that helps foster uniform coverage and directivity.
The 12-inch model, ETX-12P, carries a class D power amplifier (2,000 watts peak) with integrated FIR-Drive DSP. Single-knob DSP control includes presets for multiple configurations and top plus sub combinations, and it also offers numerous configurations, crossovers, selective voicing, protection limiters, EQ modes, and a lock-out mode. Performance monitoring is provided via an integrated LCD as well as a front-panel LED. Companion active subwoofers include the ETX-15SP (single-15) and ETX-18SP (single-18).
KV2 Audio presents an interesting line-up with the new EX Series, which includes five active full-range models in a variety of configurations. The EX12 incorporates the proprietary 3-inch NVPD compression driver found in the flagship VHD range. The neodymium driver has a complex geometry phase plug that helps produce higher output and lower distortion, working with an 80- x 40-degree (h x v) horn.
The 12-inch woofer utilizes the company’s Active Impedance Control (AIC) voice coil technology that offers several advantages, including increased linearity. The onboard amplifier module integrates crossovers, phase alignment, EQ and protection, and it also includes rear-panel level control, LED status (power, limit/thermal), and a 90 Hz high-pass filter switch. Five companion active subs are offered (single/dual-12, single/dual-15, and single-18).
The Turbosound MILAN Series includes three active 2-way models (10-, 12- and 15-inch), all accompanied by 1-inch dome compression driver on a proprietary converging elliptical waveguide (90- by 60-degree dispersion). The onboard class D amplifier has an integrated electronic crossover to drive HF and LF drivers separately. Total output power is 1,100 watts peak for the two largest models.
Onboard Klark Teknik DSP that handles dynamic EQ as well limiting functions to enhance reliability. Two discrete input channels are each equipped with combo jacks and a level control, catering to a range sources and selectable via a mic/line switch. Both channels have bass and treble controls with ±6 dB of boost/cut. Companion active subs include MILAN M15B (single-15) and M18B (single-18).
PreSonus entered the live loudspeaker market a few years ago with the StudioLive AI Series, an active line that includes three 2-way models (dual 8-inch, 12-inch and 15-inch). The top boxes all have an 8-inch CoActual coaxial driver for MF and HF reproduction. The focus of the design is the combination of a coaxial single point source with Temporal Equalization (TQ) algorithms (from Fulcrum Acoustics running on a DSP engine).
All full-range models, driven by class D amplification and with three voicing presets, are equipped for wireless and wired communication over an Ethernet or Wi-Fi LAN that provides monitoring and control of custom tuning settings. An optional card allows Dante network integration. The companion sub is the active StudioLive 18sAI (single-18).