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Audio

Tips for Designing the Best Gymnasium Sound Systems for Group Meetings

If you're using your gymnasium for more than just sporting events, plan to use a sound system. Here some things to keep in mind.

June 27, 2012 TD Staff 7 Comments

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Manufacturer: Alcons Audio

Model: QB363

Frequency Response:

+/- 3 dB: 45 Hz-250 Hz

+/- 10 dB: 38 Hz -

Sensitivity (SPL 1W/M): 99 dB

Nominal Impedance: 5.3 ohms

Maximum RMS power: 1200 W

Maximum peak power: 3600 W

SPL program/peak: 130/135 dB

Dispersion H x V: omni

System: subwoofer, front loaded

Drivers LF: 3 x AW12ND 12” woofer, multiple-vented

Cross-over frequency HP: 35 Hz. recommended

Connectors: 2 x Speakon NL4 input

Dimensions (H/W/D inches) : 39.6 x 14.4 x 20.2

Weight (approx.): 77 lb

Warranty: 6 years limited

> The Q-series is the group of modular line-source array columns. True line-source systems, to be used as flat-Isophasic line-array, either in (limited) stacked or flown configuration. Applications include both portable and permanent installations.

Manufacturer: Alcons Audio

Model: QM18

Frequency Response:

+/- 3 dB: 74 Hz - 20.000 Hz

+/- 10 dB: 53 Hz -

Sensitivity (SPL 1W/M): 97 dB

Nominal Impedance: 12 ohms

Maximum RMS power (AES): 390 W

Maximum peak power (AES): 1500 W

SPL program (nom.): 123 dB

SPL peak (nom.): 129 dB

Dispersion H x V: 90° x array length dep.

System: limited bandwidth

Filtering: passive

Drivers LF: 3 x AND65/4 neodymium, 6.5”, vented

Cross-over frequency: 1000 Hz.

Connectors: 2 x Speakon NL4 input/link

Dimensions (H/W/D inches) : 19.9x 14.4 x 9.3

Weight (approx.): 31 lb

Warranty: 6 years limited

Manufacturer: Bose

Model: Panaray MA12, mid/high modular line array

Frequency Response (+/-3 dB): 155 Hz - 12 kHz

Frequency Range (-10 dB): 100 Hz - 16 kHz

Nominal Dispersion: 145° H x 20° V

Long-Term Power Handling: 300 W (1200 W peak)

Sensitivity (SPL / 1 W @ 1 m): 88 dB SPL

Maximum SPL @ 1 m: 113 dB SPL (119 dB SPL peak)

Nominal Impedance: 8 Ω

Enclosure: Powder-coated aluminum, black or white

Environmental: Indoor use only

Connectors:

Two (2) parallel-wired NL4 Neutrik Speakon connectors

One (1) two-conductor barrier strip

Suspension / Mounting: Four (4) x M6 threaded inserts (back)

Dimensions (inches H/W/D): 38.8 x 4.2 x 5.0

Net Weight: 19 lb

Color: Black, White, Paintable

> Wide 145° horizontal coverage

Manufacturer: Bose

Model: Panaray MA12EX, full-range modular line array

Frequency Response: (+/-3 dB)1 75 Hz - 13 kHz

Frequency Range:  (-10 dB)1 58 Hz - 16 kHz

Nominal Dispersion:  160° H x 20° V

Recommended High-Pass Filter:  65 Hz

Loudspeaker:  EQ Required

Overload Protection:  PTC / Lamp

Long Term Power Handling:  150 W (600 W peak)

Sensitivity (SPL / 1 W @ 1 m) :  87 dB SPL

Maximum SPL @ 1 m:  109 dB SPL (115 dB SPL peak)

Nominal Impedance:  8 Ω

Transformer Taps:  (70/100 V) CVT-MA12EX transformer available

Transducers/Driver Compliment:  Twelve (12) 2.25” (57 mm) high-excursion, weather-resistant drivers

Physical

Enclosure:  Powder-coated aluminum, black or white

Grille:  Powder-coated aluminum grille

Environmental:  Outdoor per IEC 529 IPX5

Connectors:  Two (2) parallel-wired NL4 Neutrik® Speakon® connectors

Two (2) two-conductor barrier strips

Suspension / Mounting:  Six (6) x M6 threaded inserts (back)

Dimensions:  38.8” H x 4.1” W x 5.5” D (985 mm x 104 mm x 139 mm)

Net Weight:  21 lb (9.4 kg)

Panaray modular line arrays can be mounted in single or multiple loudspeaker configurations, and are well suited for such applications as houses of worship, multipurpose spaces, auditoriums, transportation hubs, gymnasiums, atriums and malls.

For applications in which greater frequency range and/or greater maximum SPL is desired, combine the MA12 loudspeaker with any of the MB line of modular bass loudspeakers.

Manufacturer: Community

Model: ENTASYS High-Performance Indoor/Outdoor Column System

Frequency Response:  200 Hz to 20 kHz

Power Handling:  600W RMS, 1500W PGM

Recommended Amplifier:  1200W to 1800W

Sensitivity:

Curved (12°V): 93 dB

Straight (6°V):  95 dB

Max SPL (single unit) :

Curved (12°V): 120 dB

Straight (6°V):  122 dB

Nominal Impedance:    12 ohms

Typical SPL at 100 feet (30 meters) :  96 dB

Crossover Frequencies:

Mid-Frequency: 1 kHz

High-Frequency: 7 kHz

Nominal Dispersion(1kHz - 16kHz) :

Horizontal: 120º

Vertical: 12º or 6º (user configurable)

Driver Components:

LF: Six 3.5“ neodymium

MF: Eighteen 2.35“

HF: Forty-two 1“ ( six 7“ long by 1“ wide patent-pending planar-coupled Compact Ribbon Emulators)

Baffle Form:  Configurable: straight, curved, and asymmetric curve

Required Accessories:  Digital Signal Processor /  200 Hz High Pass Filter

Grille:    Matching black or white metal curved grille

Enclosure:  Aluminum construction, molded nylon end caps

Finish:  Black or white

Dimensions:  (inches H/W/D) 44.5 x 5.5 x 7.36

Weight:  38.5 lbs

The ENTASYS three-way, full-range column- loudspeaker system. Designed for permanent installation applications including auditoria, airports and train stations, conference centers, houses of worship, stadium concourses and museums.

Manufacturer: Duran Audio

Model: AXYS Intellivox DC/DS and DSX Ranges

Duran Audio offers DDC (Digital Directivity Control) and DDS (Digital Directivity Synthesis) the technologies utilized throughout the AXYS Intellivox range. Control the vertical directivity pattern of Intellivox products and aim the sound.

Frequency Response (+/-3 dB):  75 Hz - 13 kHz

Frequency Range (-10 dB):  58 Hz - 16 kHz

Nominal Dispersion:  160° H x 20° V

Long-Term Power Handling:  150 W (600 W peak)

Sensitivity (SPL / 1 W @ 1 m):  87 dB SPL

Maximum SPL @ 1 m:  109 dB SPL (115 dB SPL peak)

Nominal Impedance:  8 Ω

Manufacturer: EAW

Model: DSA250i 2-Way Full-Range Digitally Steerable Array

CONFIGURATION

Subsystem:

Transducer Loading:

LF 8x 4 in cone Direct radiating

HF 8x 1 in dome Horn loaded

Operating Mode:

Amplifier Channels External Signal Proc. :

Self-powered 16x high efficiency None

ACOUSTICAL PERFORMANCE:

Operating Range: 78 Hz to15 kHz

Nominal Beam width: Horz 120°

Vert Digitally variable

ELECTRONIC PERFORMANCE:

Analog:

Amplifier Output (ea): 28.3 V 50 W @ 16 ohm

Input (Audio A and B):

Configuration: Balanced differential

Nominal Sensitivity: 0.9 V / 1.25 dBu For full output

Maximum Signal: 12.2 V / 24 dBu

Input Routing: A + B, A or B, priority B over A

Digital:

A to D/ D to A 48 kHz, 24 bit

Processor 32 bit dual SHARC (Super Harvard Architecture Computer)

Propagation Time 4.3 ms

INPUT SIGNAL PROCESSING:

Filters:

Frequency Boost/Cut Q:

Parametric 10 to 24000 Hz +15/-15 dB 0.25 to 64

6 or 12 dB Lo Shelf 10 to 24000 Hz +15/-15 dB

6 or 12 dB Hi Shelf 10 to 24000 Hz +15/-15 dB

HPF and LPF 10 to 24000 Hz 12/18/24 dB/oct L-R, BW, Bessel

Compression:

Threshold -40 to +24 dBu

Ratio 1.2:1 to inf:1

Attack (ms) slow (64) / med (16) / fast (2)

Release (ms) slow (256) / med (64) / fast (8)

Gain: -60 dB to +10 dB

Mute: on/off

Signal Delay: 300 ms maximum

Meters:

Input -40 to +20 dBu

Output -30 to 0 dB ref 0 dB = full output

Gain Reduction 0 dB to -60 dB (compression)

CONNECTIONS:

Computer Network

Standard EIA-485

Optional CobraNet (requires EAW CM-1 Interface Card accessory)

> DSA (Digitally Steered Array) Series loudspeakers utilize on-board amplification and DSP that allows system designers and integrators to easily attain optimized vertical coverage within any tough acoustical environment.

Manufacturer: Frazier Loudspeakers

Model: CAT 2 x 7 Dual Array

The CAT 2 x 7 comprises two arrays, each in turn consisting of seven radiating elements. Within each array, position- and frequency- dependent filtering have been engineered to optimize on and off axis performance. Frazier Coincident Aligned Transducers technology has been employed to produce a system that performs as a single device.

Manufacturer: JBL

Model: CBT 70J-1 + 70JE-1 System

Components: Eight (8) 130 mm (5 in) LF drivers

Sixteen (16) 25 mm (1 in) HF drivers

Frequency Range (-10 db):45 Hz – 20 kHz

Coverage:Vertical (selectable via switch)

Narrow Mode: 25° (2 kHz – 16 kHz) (±10°)

Broad Mode: 45° (350 Hz – 16 kHz) (±10°)

Horizontal 150° (500 Hz – 18 kHz, ±20°)

Sensitivity (@1m) :Narrow: (speech mode) 98 dB @ 2.83V, 95 dB @ 2.0V (150 Hz – 8 kHz)

(music mode) 94 dB @ 2.83V, 91 dB @ 2.0V (80 Hz – 18 kHz)

Broad: (speech mode) 97 dB @ 2.83V, 94 dB @ 2.0V (100 – 8 kHz)

(music mode) 93 dB @ 2.83V, 90 dB @ 2.0V (70 Hz – 18 kHz)

Nominal Impedance:  4 ohms

Power Capacity: 1000 W (4000 W peak), 2 hrs

700 W (2800 W peak), 100 hrs

Max SPL: Narrow: (speech mode) 125 dB cont ave

(131 peak)

(music mode) 121 dB cont ave (127 peak)

Broad: (speech mode) 124 dB cont ave

(130 peak)

(music mode) 120 dB cont ave (126 peak)

Low Frequency Drivers: 8 pcs, 130 mm (5 in) drivers, dual magnet neodymium, 38 mm (1.5 in) voice coil, damped blended textile surround, coated diaphragm for moisture, UV and salt resistance, shielded.

High Frequency Drivers: 16 pcs, 25 mm (1 in) drivers, dual magnet neodymium, encased magnet and coated diaphragm for moisture, UV and salt resistance, shielded.

Enclosure: Fiberglass-reinforced ABS cabinet, painted aluminum grille.

Outdoor Capability: IP-54 rated, per IEC 529, UV, moisture and salt-spray resistant.

Colors: Black or white (-WH)

Insert Points: 20 insert points total, 8 utilized for coupler plate, M6 (16 mm deep) on back panel

Mounting: Coupler plate joins the CBT70J-1 and 70JE-1 end-to-end. Threaded points on coupler plate accepts OmniMount™ 60.0 Series and 120.0 Series compatible wall-mount brackets, as well as points for the swivel (pan)/tilt wall bracket that is included with CBT 70J-1. Twelve (12) additional M6 mounting points accept forged shoulder steel eyebolts or swivel clips for suspension.

Dimensions (H x W x D) : 54.8 x 6.7 x 9.3 in

Net Weight : 20.4 kg (45 lb)

Manufacturer: JBL

Model: CBT 100LA

Components:  Sixteen 50 mm, (2 in) Full-Range

Frequency Range (-10 dB):  80 Hz – 20 kHz

Vertical Coverage:  Vertical

Narrow Mode: 15° (2 kHz - 16 kHz) (±10°)

Broad Mode: 40° (1 kHz - 16 kHz) (±10°)

Horizontal 150° (ave, 1 kHz – 4 kHz, ±20°)

Sensitivity (2.83V@ 1m) :  Narrow: (speech mode) 96 dB (2 kHz - 14 kHz )

(music mode) 93 dB (300 Hz - 18 kHz)

Broad: (speech mode) 93 dB (2 kHz - 14 kHz)

(music mode) 90 dB (300 Hz - 18 kHz)

Nominal Impedance:  8 ohms (in Thru mode)

Power Capacity (8 ohm setting):  325 W (1300W peak), 2 hrs

200 W (800W peak), 100 hrs

Max SPL:  Narrow: (speech mode) 121 dB cont ave (127 peak)

(music mode) 118 dB cont ave (124 peak)

Broad: (speech mode) 118 dB cont ave (124 peak)

(music mode) 115 dB cont ave (121 peak)

70V/100V Transformer Taps:  120W, 60W, 30W (15W at 70V only), and 8Ω thru, via switch

Enclosure:  Fiberglass reinforced ABS cabinet, painted aluminum grille

Outdoor Capability :  IP-54 rated, per IEC529. UV, moisture and salt-spray resistant

Colors:  Black or White (-WH)

Insert Points:  18 M6 insert points on back panel.

Mounting:  Included wall bracket provides continuously adjustable ±15 degree tilt, as well as 5 degree fixed increment points. Eighteen threaded mounting points located on back panel conform to industry standard rectangular 108 x 51 mm (4.25 x 2.0 in) pattern for third-party bracket, or can be utilized for suspension.

Dimensions (H x W x D): 39.4 in x 3.8 in x 6.0 in

Net Weight:  15.8 lb

Manufacturer: JBL

Model: CBT 50LA

Components:

Eight 50 mm, (2 in) Full-Range

Frequency Range (-10 dB): 80 Hz – 20 kHz

Coverage Pattern: Vertical 20° (1.5 kHz - 16 kHz, ±10°)

Horizontal 150° (ave, 1 kHz – 4 kHz, ±20°)

Sensitivity (2.83V@ 1m): 93 dB (speech mode, 2 kHz - 14 kHz)

89 dB (music mode, 300 Hz - 18 kHz)

Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms

Power Capacity (8 ohm setting): 150W (600W peak), 2 hrs

100 W (400W peak), 100 hrs

Max SPL: Speech mode: 115 dB cont ave (121 peak)

Music mode: 111 dB cont ave (117 peak)

70V/100V Transformer Taps: 60W, 30W, 15W, (7.5W at 70V only), and 8Ω thru, via switch

Enclosure: Fiberglass reinforced ABS cabinet, painted aluminum grille

Outdoor Capability: IP-54 rated, per IEC529. UV, moisture and salt-spray resistant

Colors: Black or White (-WH)

Insert Points: Ten M6 insert points on back panel.

Mounting: Included wall bracket provides continuously adjustable ±15 degree tilt, as well as 5 degree fixed increment points within the range. Ten threaded mounting points located on back panel conform to industry standard rectangular 108 x 51 mm (4.25 x 2.0 in) pattern for third-party bracket, or can be utilized for suspension.

Dimensions (H x W x D): 20.8 x 3.9 x 6.0 in

Net Weight: 9.0 lb

Manufacturer: RCF

Model: L2406-T, Three Way Speaker Column Array

Acoustical Specifications :

Frequency Response -10 dB:  100 Hz ÷ 20 kHz

Max SPL @ 1m:  120 dB

Horizontal coverage angle:  150°

Vertical coverage angle:  30°

Directivity index; Q:  9.25

System Sensitivity:  97 dB

Nominal Impedance:  8 Ω

Power Handling:  200 W

Peak Power Handling:  800 W

Recommended Amplifier:  400

Protections:  Dynamic

Crossover frequencies:  2000 Hz

Transducers :

Compression Driver:  4 X 1” HF driver, 1” voice coil

Nominal Impedance:  8 Ω

Input Power Rating:  10 W AES

Sensitivity:  90T dB

Woofer:  6 X 5” woofer, 1” voice coil

Nominal Impedance:  8 Ω

Input Power Rating:  30 W AES

Sensitivity:  90 dB

Input connector:  Euroblock

Cabinet Material:  9 mm birch plywood construction

Hardware:  4x M5 inserts

Grille:  Custom perforated steel grille

Color:  Black, white, scratch resistant paint

Dimensions (H/W/D inches) :  32.52 x 5.31 x 5.51

Net Weight:  25.35 lbs

Manufacturer: RCF

Model: TTL11A Digitally Steerable Array

Acoustical Specifications

TTL11A-H           TTL11A-B           TTS25-A

Frequency Response:  150 Hz - 20 kHz   60 Hz - 300 kHz 35 Hz - 120 Hz

Max SPL:    136 dB       133 dB         140 dB

Horizontal cov. angle:  90°                  90°                -

Vertical cov. angle:    10° to 40°          40°                -

Compression           4 x 1.4” neo, 2.5”    -                    -

Driver:              v.c.

Midrange:              3 x 8” neo, 2.5”      -                    -

v.c.

Woofer:                -                    4 x 8” neo, 2.5”    2 x 15” neo, 4”

v.c.                  v.c.

Input/Output Section

TTL11A-H           TTL11A-B           TTS25-A

Input connector:        xlr,             xlr                   xlr,

RDNet Ethercon                         RDNet Ethercon

Output connector:      xlr,             xlr                   xlr,

RDNet Ethercon                         RDNet Ethercon

Input sensitivity:        -2 dBu / + 10 dBu -2 dBu / + 10 dBu   -2 dBu / + 10 dBu

Processor Section

TTL11A-H           TTL11A-B           TTS25-A

Crossover freq.:        350 Hz - 1300 Hz   350 Hz             90 Hz - 120 Hz

Protections:            thermal,            thermal,            thermal,

excurs., rms         excurs., rms       excurs., rms

Limiter:                soft limiter           soft limiter         soft limiter

Controls:              Dsp controlled       Dsp controlled     Dsp controlled

Amplifier Specification

TTL11A-H           TTL11A-B           TTS25-A

High frequencies:      4 x 250 Watt         -                    -

Mid frequency:        3 x 350 Watt         -                    -

Low frequencies:      -                    2 x 1000 Watt       3400 Watt

Cooling:                convection         convection           convection/forced

Connection:            powercon           powercon             powercon

Physical Specification

TTL11A-H           TTL11A-B           TTS25-A

Height:          47.16”             47.16”              18.11”

Width:          10.27”              10.27”              35.43”

Depth:          9.52”                9.52”              27.55”

Weight:          85.98 lbs           81.57 lbs           123.45 lbs

Cabinet:            baltic birch plywd     baltic birch plywd     baltic birch plywd

Hardware:          multi-functional       multi-functional       TTL11A ready

Handles:          4 side, top, bottom       4 side, top, bottom

Manufacturer: RCF

Model: MQ 100L

Acoustical Specifications: 

Frequency Response:    -10 dB:130 Hz ÷ 20 kHz

Max SPL @ 1m:  118 dB

Horizontal coverage angle:  180°

Vertical coverage angle:  60 (+ 20, - 40)°

System Sensitivity:  93 dB

Protections:  PTC on tweeter

Crossover frequencies:  2000 Hz

Transducers: 

Tweeter:  2 x 0.75” cloth coated dome tweeters

Midrange:  2 x 3.5” Mid-Woofer mit einer Gewebesicke

Woofer:  2 x 3.5” rubber surround woofers

Input Section: 

Input connector:  euroblock

Cabinet: 

Cabinet Material:  Self-extinguishing (HB level) high density polystyrene

Grille:  Steel

Colour:  Black / White

Physical Specifications

Height:  510 / 20.8 mm/inch

Width:  120 / 4.7 mm/inch

Depth:  166.8 / 6.5 mm/inch

Net Weight:  3 / 6.6 kg/lbs

Manufacturer: RCF

VSA 2050, Digitally Steerable Sound Column Speaker

Frequency Response:  100 - 18.000 Hz

Max SPL:  96 dB (A-weighted at 30 m)

Horizontal coverage angle:  130 °

Vertical coverage angle:  selectable from 10° to 30°

Vertical steering angle:  selectable from 0° to -40°

Directivity control frequency:  from 150 Hz

Transducers:  20 x 3.5” full-range speakers

Input sensitivity:  0 dBu, digitally controlled

Input connectors:  balanced screw terminal, balanced screw terminal ceramic block

Input control:  remote control dedicated IR input, priority input command, status remote monitoring, stand by remote command

Input LEDS:  active, communication, status, emergency

Processor:  Texas Instruments TMS320C6726 32 bit floating point dsp Xilinx Spartan3A FPGA, BurrBrown A/D PCM 4202 24 bit 48 kHz 118 dB S/N ratio

Processor operations:  20 channel PEQS, compression, beam-forming, speaker limiter and protection

Amplifiers:  20 x Class D, 50 W

Amplifiers protections:  short circuit, thermal

Power supply:  500 W switching type

Power supply & connectors:  115/230 Vac-VDE connector, 24 V DC back-up ceramic terminal block

Dimensions: (H/W/D inches):  81.49 x 4.92 x 3.81

Weight:  41.8 lbs

Manufacturer: Renkus-Heinz

Model: ICONYX

Sensitivity:  01.0 V (for rated power output)

Freq. Range:  80 Hz to 20 kHz

Max SPL:  102 dB pgm, 105 dB peak @ 100 Ft. (30.5 meters),

105 dB pgm, 108 dB peak when stacked

(3-octave bandwidth centered at 2 kHz)

Horiz. Dispersion:  150° up to 3 kHz; 120° above 3 kHz

Vert. Opening Angles:  20°, 25° and 30° (5°, 10°, 15° and 20° when stacked)

Aiming Angle:  Adjustable from -30° to +30°

Typical Throw:  66 Ft. (20 m) 132 Ft. (40 m) when stacked

Beam Control:  Effective down to 800 Hz (400 Hz when stacked)

№. Transducers (per module):  :  Five 6.5-inch cone transducers with neodymium magnets, Three 1-inch HF titanium nitride compression drivers

№. Amp. Channels:  8 (per module)

Dimensions:  48” H x 8” W x 11.3” D

Weight:  61 Lbs

Hanging Method:  AeroQuip Fly-Track

Enclosure:  Finnish Birch with Aluminum end caps and perforated steel grill; suitable for outdoor use

Inputs:  Analog Audio Inputs: Looping XLR (female in, male out)

and Phoenix 6-pin (looping 3-in, 3-out)

CobraNet: Dual RJ45 connectors (for CAT 5e copper cable)

AES/EBU: Phoenix connector

Controls (Rear Mounted):  Mute button

Up & Down Output Level push buttons

10 dB Input pad (on Analog 1 input),Power On/Off,

Push-To-Reset circuit breaker, Configuration PreSet Selector

Computer Controls:  Gain, Mute, On/Standby, Input Selection

Compression, 8-Band Parametric EQ, Shelving & Rolloff

Filters, Delay, Configuration Preset Readout

Status Indicators:  Power, Signal, Overdrive, Thermal, Mute, Input Pad, Failure,

Preset Configuiration

Power Connector:  Powercon locking connector

Finish:  Black paint

Network Digital Format:  16, 20 or 24 bit PCM; 48 or 96 kHz sample rate;

selectable network latency

DSP/AMPLIFIER/ Type:  8-channel, Class D amplifier/DSP processor

100 Watts RMS per channel, 150 Watts Burst

Input Impedance:  >20K Ohm balanced differential

Max Input:  +24 dBu (Pad in);+14 dBu @ 1V sensitivity (Pad out)

Power Rating:  100 Watts RMS per channel, 150 Watts Burst

Freq. Range:  + 3, - 3 dB, 80 Hz to 20 kHz

THD Distortion: 

< 0.05% typical

Hum & Noise: 

<100 dB (A weighted)

Power Required:  Universal 90/260 VAC, 50/60Hz. 29 VA Idle;

(per module):  500 VA @ Rated Power Output

(250 ma Idle, 4.2 Amps @RPO at 120 V)

Manufacturer: Tannoy

Model: I Series, Controlled Dispersion Surface Mount

System type:  Column source loudspeaker

Frequency Response:  (1)(-3dB) 80Hz - 30kHz

Recommended Amplifier Power:  Up to 300 Watt / 8 Ohms

Power Handling (2) :  Average 150W

Programme:  300W Peak: 600W

Sensitivity:  2.83 Volts @ 1 metre (3)Anechoic: 93dB

Half Space:  96Db

Maximum SPL:  Average: 115dB Peak: 121dB

Wattage Tap Selections:  60, 30, 15, 7.5 Watts\

Switchable Transformer Options:  70 Volt / 100 Volt or 8 Ohms

Impedance:  8 Ohms

CROSSOVER Frequency:  200Hz, 3.3kHz, 11.5kHz

Type:  Passive DRIVE UNIT

Dispersion:  120° x 40° (H x V)

Driver Complement:  4 x 130mm (5.00”) mid bass

3 x 25mm (1.00”) titanium dome high frequency

CONSTRUCTION:  Enclosure14.5 litre MDF infinite baffle with perforated steel grille

Finish:  Textured charcoal or white - paintable to suit any décor

Connectors:  2 x Neutrik™ Speakon (NL4MP)

Fittings:  2 x M10 threaded inserts

Mounting Options:  Yoke (i9Y)

Multiple angle bracket (i9 MAB)

Dimensions:  30.67 x 6.69 x 7.87)

Weight (each):  27lbs 9oz

Manufacturer: TOA

Model: Type H slim column arrays

TYPE H SR-H2L SR-H2S SR-H3L SR-H3S

Enclosure: Bass-reflex type

Power Handling Capacity: Continuous program: 180W Continuous program: 360W

Rated Impedance: 8Ω

Sensitivity: 92dB, 90dB, 95dB, 92dB

(1W, 1m equivalent, measured at 4m) (1W, 1m equivalent, measured at 4m) (1W, 1m equivalent, measured at 8m) (1W, 1m equivalent, measured at 8m)

Frequency Response: 80 – 18,000Hz (-10dB) 90 – 17,000Hz (-10dB) 110 – 18,000Hz (-10dB) 90 – 17,000Hz (-10dB)

(when equalized at recommended parameters) (when equalized at recommended parameters) (when equalized at recommended parameters) (when equalized at recommended parameters)

Directivity Angle: Horizontal: 90° Horizontal: 90° Horizontal: 90° Horizontal: 90°

Vertical: 0° Vertical: 20° Vertical: 0° Vertical: 20°

(within the range of speaker height) (within the range of speaker height)

Speaker Component: 7cm (2.8”) cone-type × 9 7cm (2.8”) cone-type × 16

Input Connector: Removable input connector

Finish Enclosure: MDF, white, urethane paint

Front grille: Punched steel plate, white, acrylic paint

Dimensions: 84 (W) × 668.4 (H) × 115 (D)mm 84 (W) × 663.4 (H) × 115 (D)mm 84 (W) × 1186.4 (H) × 115 (D)mm 84 (W) × 1177.2 (H) × 157 (D)mm

(3.31” x 26.31” x 4.53”) (3.31” x 26.12” x 4.53”) (3.31” x 46.71” x 4.53”) (3.31” x 46.35” x 6.18”)

Weight : 4.4kg (9.7 lb) 4.2kg (9.26 lb) 7.6kg (16.75 lb) 7.9kg (17.42 lb)

In present day scholastic environments, school administrators are often under the gun to use existing facilities in ways they were not originally intended for.  A typical example is the school gymnasium — where parent/teacher gatherings, commencement ceremonies, special announcements and other events are held when no dedicated auditorium is available.

Such events fall well outside of the gym’s original purpose, which is that of scholastic sports. But by knowing in advance that such cross-utilization is likely, and in many cases ultimately inevitable, the school can take measures to ensure that the sound system will satisfy the demands placed upon it. This applies equally to new construction, as well as to sound system upgrades in existing facilities.

Sports announcing is not a critical application in the K-12 realm, and may not exist at all. Conversely, the clarity and intelligibility of the spoken word at a graduation ceremony or a PTA meeting is very important and can make or break the success of the event. It’s essential that the presenter is clearly understood in an acoustical environment that is almost always sub-optimal for speech intelligibility.

Gymnasium Acoustics

The first thing to recognize is that the acoustical conditions in virtually any K-12 gymnasium are going to be terrible. The building was simply not designed for sound, but rather for sports. The hard floor surfaces, hard wall surfaces, wooden bleachers and the ceilings (likely to be untreated with dampening materials), will all cause acoustic reflections that make it very difficult to convey the spoken word intelligibly.

One possible cure would be to apply a very large amount of sound absorbent material to the reflective surfaces, but this is likely to be a poor solution because of cost. A typical K-12 gym might need several hundred thousand dollars worth of sound absorbers to make a significant improvement, but even that might not be enough to solve the acoustical problems.

Instead, capitalizing on the latest leading-edge sound system technology makes much more sense. A relatively new breed of loudspeakers that are known as “column line arrays” has entered the market in the early part of this decade. Column loudspeakers use the “line-array” principal to tightly focus sound energy where it’s needed. The line array principal forces otherwise conically radiating cone drivers to radiate as a “line source” in the axis in which they’re stacked one upon another (See Photo 1). Working together as a line source, the column of drivers radiates sound energy in a narrow dispersion pattern. The actual pattern is a function of how lengthy the column is; the taller the column, the narrower the dispersion pattern.  The benefit of a well-designed columnar loudspeaker is the ability to direct sound where it’s needed and away from surfaces that cause reflections that damage intelligibility.

High-quality column loudspeakers are available from many well known manufacturers such as Community, Renkus-Heinz, JBL, Bose and many others.While each brand, and even each model,may vary in specific performance characteristics — and marketing claims — the common denominator is that a well-engineered column loudspeaker presents a narrow and controlled dispersion pattern, virtually the opposite of a conventional loudspeaker, which radiates sonic energy in a conical pattern from its low-frequency driver.

Conversely, the vertically stacked line array drivers of a column loud speaker provide pattern control that narrows the vertical dispersion in proportion to the height of the column. The coherent sound of the columnar line array source reaches the listener first — before the reflections are heard — making it possible to hear and understand what’s being said without needing to dampen the reflective room acoustics.

Location, location, location

Columnar loudspeakers are not necessarily expensive(though some can be), but because of their distinctively narrow dispersion properties, they must be located where they can be properly focused to cover the audience, not in some generic location at the back of the gym and pointing in the wrong direction. Most suppliers of these products can offer skilled advice to aid in the installation process.

In many cases, the best solution is to deploy the column loudspeakers on portable speaker stands, so that positioning can be adjusted appropriately for each type of event. This will also reduce the cost of installing permanent wiring and mechanical installation work. When not being used in the gym, the same column loudspeaker system can be stored in a utility room, remaining available for events outside of the gym, such as a warm weather gathering in an outdoor courtyard.

Ken DeLoria is senior technical editor for Live Sound International and has had a diverse career in pro audio over more than 30 years, including being the founder and owner of Apogee Sound.

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Tagged With: Acoustics, K12

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Sam LaViolette says

    January 19, 2017 at 7:38 am

    We are looking for the cheapest price for a new sound system from three different companies for our school gymnasium.

    Reply
  2. LNWeaver says

    May 24, 2017 at 7:16 pm

    I can understand how all the hard surfaces in a gym, like the floor and wooden bleachers, could cause a lot of reflections. That’s why I like that you also said to make sure columnar speakers cover the audience. If you choose your location correctly like that, you’ll diminish the effects of cancellation which occur when reflections (echoes) interfere with the sound source.

    Reply
  3. Jose Zaldivar says

    December 10, 2017 at 9:45 am

    Hi, I have setup 3 large (73″) TVs in my Gym. I would like my customers to listen via their smart-phone to whatever TV they want. Is this even possible? I have seen this @ WorldHealth gyms, but I have to run cables to each equipment so users can connect their headsets to it. I want to do this wireless, and with excellent quality. The main issue is sound latency. So, I was thinking that perhaps I can broadcast via FM and have the phones connect to that. Bluetooth won’t give me enough range as the gym is very long and I doubt the latency factor would be acceptable. Please help!

    Reply
  4. Rachele says

    January 9, 2018 at 4:54 pm

    I teach theatre in a remodeled elementary school; we perform in a gym that is also used for PE classes. We need sound that is effective for group performances but is removable or safe during sports events.

    Reply
  5. Bobby Saint says

    January 18, 2018 at 9:01 pm

    I like that you provided some tips for designing the best gymnasium sound system such as making sure to properly install and set them up in the proper location. It is recommended that you deploy the column loudspeakers on portable speaker sounds. This way, they can be adjusted every time that there is a need to transfer the speakers from one location to another without affecting the quality of sound. If I were to install sound systems in my house, I would make sure to keep this in mind. Thanks.

    Reply
  6. rohit aggarwal says

    August 16, 2019 at 3:15 am

    thanks for the information

    Reply
  7. kshitij says

    August 16, 2019 at 3:16 am

    thanks for sharing this tips

    Reply

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