Martin Audio in Waterloo, Ontario, debuted its MLA Multi-cellular Loudspeaker Array at InfoComm 2010. The new system combines Martin Audio’s touring experience with optimization software and a cellular array design for highly reliable coverage and consistency.
Martin Audio R&D Director Jason Baird explains: “Our primary aim with MLA was to take the guesswork out of daily system design and enable the engineer’s mix to be delivered throughout an audience with a degree of precision, consistency and repeatability not possible with traditional line arrays. Based on the amazingly consistent results we experienced right from ‘switch on’ during the system’s recent German tour, we are even more convinced that MLA is a game-changing product.”
MLA’s methodology offers intelligent numerical optimization of the array’s output based on a highly accurate acoustic model. The multi-cellular format has six individual cells in each enclosure, each with its own DSP and powering capability.
Each 24-enclosure array has 144 cells—too great a number to optimize manually or by ear. Martin Audio’s proprietary Display 2.0 system design software automatically calculates FIR DSP filters for each cell and a redundant-ring audio network (U-NET) downloads the settings into each array enclosure. Martin’s VU-NET software provides real-time control and monitoring of the system.
Martin Audio states that the MLA features “an exceptionally even frequency response” and SPL over audience areas; a very high system output (140dB peak, per cabinet @1m); automatic optimization of array, both physically (splay angles) and electronically (DSP); computer control and monitoring of the entire system, and total control of sound system balance for engineers and sound technicians.
Additional features include 90×7.5-degree dispersion; a compact size (1,136x372x675mm WxHxD deep), a “one-box-fits-all” (festivals to theaters) application range; and a global voltage, power factor corrected power supply.
The system also includes an MLX powered, flyable subwoofer capable of a peak output of 150dB @ 1m, an MLD downfill cabinet and Merlin 4-in/10-out system controller and network hub. Audio input is via analog, AES3 or U-NET.
For more information about MLA, visit www.martin-audio.com.
