Designed for permanent installations requiring high-impact sound reinforcement at throw distances beyond the reach of traditional loudspeaker designs, JBL’s new Variable Line Array (VLA) Series is based on the same engineering science used in the company’s VerTec line array product family, but combines many elements of the Precision Directivity Series. This is accomplished by providing six large-format horn-loaded modules with three horizontal horn-coverage patterns (30, 60 and 90 degrees).
This modular horn-loaded concept incorporating JBL’s Precision Directivity Series technology provides system designers additional flexibility to vary the horizontal pattern within a vertical array. This can be achieved by incorporating different modules with wider or narrower coverage patterns while still maintaining consistent vertical directivity.
The VLA Series features patented CMCD cone midrange compression drivers and neodymium high-frequency compression drivers. Three standard-output versions of the VLA Series each feature three high-frequency drivers, two mid-frequency drivers and two low-frequency drivers. High-output versions each feature six high-frequency drivers, four mid-frequency drivers and two low-frequency drivers.
Additionally, all VLA Series products feature rigging points for adapting to specified line array configurations. All models are equipped with DuraFlex™ exterior finish and weatherized components. JBL’s WRC and WRX weather protection finishes are optionally available.
In other company news, the VLA Calculator software package for the new Variable Line Array Series allows system designers and consultants to mechanically and acoustically model VLA arrays of various sizes and shapes to predict the most effective array configuration to meet the needs of a given venue.
The proprietary algorithms that calculate array performance and which drive the graphic displays have been correlated with observed real-world performance characteristics of the products. This easy-to-use software application allows the designer to specify and enter measurements for seating sections of the venue, and visualize a desired JBL VLA system comprising any combination of elements. The direct SPL for each seating plane is then plotted for up to three frequency bands concurrently. The calculator also takes other factors such as air temperature and air absorption into account.
For more information, visit www.jblpro.com/products/installedsound/VLA/. For additional new sound reinforcement products, visit mixonline.com/livesound/products/.
