The L Class is a new generation of intelligent active loudspeakers from QSC for applications ranging from plug-and-play deployments to more demanding networked AV productions and fixed installations. The new LA108 (two-way, 8-inch) and LA112 (two-way, 12-inch) active line array loudspeakers are complemented by the LS118 (single 18-inch) active subwoofer. Onboard Dante connects L Class to networked AV systems and connected stages.
The LA108 and LA112 include the proprietary LEAF (Length-Equalized Acoustic Flare) waveguide as well as the ergonomically designed, single-operator RapidDeploy rigging system and AWARE (Automatic Wireless Array Recognition) system intelligence that also provides one-button single box or full array optimization.
The LEAF waveguide is designed to provide a high degree of acoustic performance due to the optimization of the shapes of its sound paths and internal flares. It offers defined, uniform coverage and added throw to help facilitate consistent high-frequency reproduction, even in larger venues or expansive areas and for distant audience.
Further, improved coupling of multiple waveguides leads to coherent single array behavior, while the ability to crossover at lower frequencies than in the past enhances voice reproduction and articulation.
The ergonomically-designed RapidDeploy rigging system supplies short, medium and long-throw splay options and is designed to facilitate fast setup and tear-down of flown, ground-stacked or pole mounted systems. The fully integrated rigging mechanism offers a clean and professional appearance without the need for protruding (and sometimes easily lost) hardware.
The onboard AWARE intelligence communicates setup information, providing the user with a “one touch” array optimization using proprietary DSP algorithms. The technology uses active loudspeakers’ internal accelerometers and infrared communication links to determine and share essential information.
In addition, it allows the operators to apply correct Ar-Q Array Equalization filters via either a computer/tablet or any loudspeaker’s rear user interface, designed to foster a more a consistent and repeatable experience in any venue or fixed installation. Setup information is communicated to QSC SysNav App, allowing functionalities to be visualized and controlled that can result in time saving during setup and higher quality audio results.
The LS118 active subwoofer’s onboard DSP further optimizes and protects system performance while also offering added capabilities such as the ability to array two units in a cardioid arrangement, maximizing low frequency output in front while minimizing unwanted energy around the sides and rear of the system. DEEP mode provides additional low-frequency extension and driver excursion processing.
All models also include the company’s Acoustic Linear Phase (ALP) design that promotes a cohesive phase response when deployed with other QSC loudspeakers in a given environment. ALP employs a combination of FIR, IIR and all-pass filters that can be used to enhance a system’s frequency response consistency within the coverage angle by ensuring that each loudspeaker achieves an acoustic output that maintains the phase relationship of the input signal.
Both line array loudspeakers can be deployed using dedicated array frames, ground-stacked (array frame combined with optional sub-stack adapter) or mounted in one of two pole cups using loudspeaker stands or poles of various lengths. The LS118 can be arranged in both horizontal and vertical orientations in a ground-stack configuration or using one of its two pole receptacles. All three models provide daisy-chain connections for analog and digital audio as well as AC power (PowerCON TRUE1) and are backed by a six-year extended warranty with product registration.
The SysNav (System Navigator) app for Windows and iPadOS is designed to offer the ability to design, configure, control, monitor and apply signal processing to individual loudspeakers, full arrays or groupings of both. Additionally, the AIM (Array Installation Modeling) prediction tool lets users visualize array coverage by positioning virtual loudspeakers and arrays in a scaled, graphical model of a venue or installation space.
“The innovations found in L Class are truly astonishing in their capacity to equip users at every level of experience with the capability to achieve superior sonic performance quickly and easily,” states David Angress, general manager, QSC Pro Audio. “The ability to bring this quality of product to market and make it accessible to a wide range of customers is remarkable, and if the early reviews from key customers are any indication, L Class is destined to be another runaway success for QSC and our channel partners everywhere.”
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