System Features True Three-Way Design, Onboard DSP with Gunnessâ„¢ Focusing Technology, Innovative FastLatch Integral Rigging and More
InfoComm, Orlando, FL, USA, June 17, 2009 – EAW, a world leader in audio system solutions for the past 30 years, offers its NTL720 Line Array Loudspeaker System. This self-powered system features a true three-way design and numerous other EAW-patented and proprietary technologies, housed in an extremely compact (9.4″ x 24″ x 14.3″) and lightweight (less than 50 pounds) package.
The entire enclosure face of each NTL720 module is filled by a full-sized mid/high horn providing 110-degree (horizontal) by 12-degree (vertical) dispersion. The extreme horn size ensures broadband pattern control throughout the entire MF/HF pass-band.
High frequencies are produced by six 1-inch dome tweeters, configured in two vertical columns (each with three tweeters) mounted on a manifold that feeds a single slot in the center of the horn, which is highly effective in controlling vertical dispersion. Flanking the HF section, dual 6-inch cone woofers handle the MF range, also loading on to the horn with minimal space between the MF and HF components, enhancing coherency and improving overall off-axis response.
The LF section features EAW’s proprietary Phase Aligned approach, first utilized in KF730 Series line arrays. Both 6-inch LF drivers are positioned in a side-mounted “figure-8� configuration that extends horizontal pattern control while directing more acoustical energy on axis. The response of the MF drivers is also extended down to 100 Hz, furthering low-end presence and impact.
The onboard self-powering technology includes three individual modified 500-watt Class-D (digital) amplifier modules, each tailored for its respective subsection (LF, LF/MF, and HF – all 4-ohm loads). Each amplifier module is accompanied by its own precisely matched digital signal processor. Headlining the DSP is EAW’s Gunness™ Focusing alignment and driver processing algorithms that produce horn-loaded performance comparable to premium direct-radiating studio monitors.
EAWPilot control software provides comprehensive DSP control, as well as monitoring of amplifier status; when connected, all NTL720 loudspeakers comprise a network in which EAWPilot recognizes each individual loudspeaker, as well as arrays acting as a single unit. Not only does EAWPilot assist in optimizing a wide range of loudspeaker/array parameters, but its Wizard modeling software also helps in automatically configuring array DSP for optimal performance for specific audience areas, greatly simplifying system setup and alignment.
Input selection provided on NTL720 cabinets is both simple and flexible – the user has a choice of EAW’s proprietary U-Net as well as analog, AES 1 and AES 2. U-Net provides full digital control of each device in a system, including audio signal, processing parameters and routing – in addition to accommodating the EAW Smaart tuning and analysis platform.
Communication connection options also include U-Net, as well as a USB port on the back panel for interfacing with the DSP. Each back panel also offers HF boost and nearfield contour controls, along with a range of LED indicators for signal, limiter, clip, input selection, U-Net status, amplifier status, HF boost engagement and nearfield contour engagement.
One of the most notable aspects of the NTL720 is its proprietary FastLatch™ integral rigging system. It offers an easy, convenient “hinge-and-latch� approach, with the essential components being two heavy-duty hinge mechanisms on the back of each cabinet and a latch mechanism on the underside of each cabinet.
Splay angles (a choice of 12, 9, 6, 3, and 0 degrees) are easily selectable by carrier brackets that accompany the hinges. In addition, the flybar can also be used as a stable, safe groundstack platform.
The rigging design also allows individual components and even entire modules to be replaced within built array structures, whether flown or stacked. Two plug connectors that directly connect the amplifier module to the PCB inside of the cabinet ensure a solid, lock-tight fit and eliminate the hassles of cable connections. NTL720 cabinets are finished with EAW’s durable RoadCoat™ weather-resistant textured finish that is highly scratch-resistant, and the grille is durable aluminum.
EAW’s NTL720 Line Array Loudspeaker System is currently available.
