Vmb LX-V8 compact powered PA speaker

The compact LX-V8 is a 2-way line array element with integrated amplification, digital processing and networking capabilities. For the low frequencies, two slot-loaded Neodymium magnet 8” transducers are deployed in a V-type topology. The cones ans suspensions are constructed of Nomex®, a high-temperature material used in fire fighting. For high frequencies, two Neodymium magnet 1” drivers are individually coupled to cast aluminium plane wave adapters to increase driver heat sinking and lower power compression.

A total of 2500W of Class-D amplification are utilized: a 1000W amplifier is used for each of the LF drivers, plus a 500W one for the HF unit. The switched-mode power supply eases cooling requirements while reducing box weight to a reasonable 42 kg (93 lbs) including integral flyware. In addition, the LX-V8’s electronics feature a DSP processor (a dedicated version of the company’s own Arkeops outboard controllers) that provides equalization, filtering, alignment and dual (RMS and peak) compression, protecting from thermal as well as mechanical driver damage. An LCD display provides readout of the pitch angle as well as the temperature of the hottest amplification element. To compensate for array size, users enter the number of boxes using push locations integrated into the screen (so they do not protrude). The system then automatically applies inclinometer data (which is only read at power-up to avoid movements of the array from affecting the processing) to calibrate box throw to long, medium or short. For non-standard set-ups, this can also be defined manually. For added flexibility in complex applications, corrections for box throw and array elements can be bypassed and performed by an external processor.

“The high precision inclinometer is not a mere gimmick”, notes VMB’s R&D director Carlos Matalí. “Other than saying goodbye to carrying an external inclinometer, the angle information is fed to the processor and the signal conditioning algorithms changed accordingly. And down the pipeline are all sorts of advanced uses for that information within a network of array modules”.

An optional board fitted with a roadworthy EtherCon network connector enables Ethernet-based monitoring and control via the company’s “Online monitoring Software” software. This finds all the units on the network, which can be assigned a name and an IP address which remains stored in the cabinet. Temperature of all amplifier elements, pitch angle, clip and signal levels can be monitored. The “Lynx on Stage” software takes care of prediction duties for the line array acoustical dispersion performance.


Other features:

- USB port for quick and easy firmware updates

- Fly up to 24 LX-V8 (or stack up to 6 on dolly)

- PowerCon AC input with loop through output

- Low latency DSP (0.5 ms analogue in to analogue out)


Reaching down to 65 Hz (-6 dB), The LX-V8 can be used stand-alone or, more commonly, complemented by the LX-218S subwoofer, featuring two Neodymium magnet 18” woofers with 4” (100 mm) interleaved sandwich coils, each of which is powered by a 1000W amplifier.

The LX-V8 and LX-218S are available now in black or white versions.