Martin Audio LE1200 Stage Monitor
Have you ever heard the phrase “your reputation precedes you”? Just mention the name Martin Audio around pro audio professionals and it will most likely garner a positive response. Martin Audio was founded in 1971 to manufacture and supply world-class touring systems for some of the biggest music groups of the day. Thirty-six years later, Martin Audio is still manufacturing some of the best loudspeaker systems in the world. Therefore, it’s easy to understand why one would be excited to hear, use, and review one of their newest stage monitors. I certainly was excited to take an in-depth look and listen to the Martin Audio LE1200 active/passive, low-profile, high-power, differential dispersion stage monitor.
A Look Outside and In
In the spring of 2006, Martin Audio officially released their latest line of LE series monitors. The smallest monitor in the series is the LE1200 and, according to Martin Audio, “[it] is an ultra-compact, high-performance stage monitor combining maximum enclosure volume with an optimum presentation angle in a low-profile, contemporary design.” Upon seeing the LE1200 ($2,219 List Price), I was impressed by the attractive design. The corners are rounded giving the monitor a sleek appearance and the exterior features textured black paint. The primary components are protected by a steel perforated grille and while the LE1200 is solidly built, it’s surprisingly lightweight—only 45 pounds.
The enclosure consists of a high-specification 12-inch low-frequency speaker and a 1.4-inch exit compression driver mounted on a differential dispersion horn. The concept of “dispersion” is a major feature of the LE1200. Differential dispersion technology, according to Martin Audio, “increases the area over which a constant sound pressure level (SPL) and consistent frequency response is maintained at ear height, enabling the artist to move around more freely.”
It took a little searching to find the input jacks. I’m basically a creature of habit and therefore looked first on the sides and then on the back. The two Neutrik NL4 connectors, however, are discreetly located in a recessed area on the monitor’s underside. Martin Audio did this to prevent any potential cable mishaps. Regarding the Neutrik connectors, one is for the primary input while the second is designed as a link.
The LE1200 requires a power amp capable of delivering at least 500 to 700 watts into four ohms. Maximum SPL at one meter is a whopping 123 dB continuous and 129 dB peak (kids, don’t try this at home). Also available on the LE1200 are two different operating modes—passive and active. Located directly above the inputs is a switch allowing the desired mode. When in active mode, an optional DX1 controller provides crossover, EQ, and limiting functions. For our testing, however, we only used the LE1200 in passive mode and without the optional DX1.
Performance Testing
For the testing, we decided to implement the LE1200 into our church’s primary monitor setup. We normally run five monitors across the platform’s front and two toward the back. The LE1200 was located in the center of our praise and worship setup, which, on most Sundays, includes eight singers and a guitar player across the platform’s front. Each monitor mix generally includes vocals as well as the full band. (Our band includes piano, bass, electric drums, synthesizer, and acoustic guitar.) The existing monitor power amps were used with the LE1200 being powered by a Crown Micro-Tech 1200. This particular amplifier delivers 450 watts into four ohms. Delivering the input was our church’s Yamaha DM2000 digital mixer with a Rane equalizer also located in the signal chain.
As expected, the LE1200 sounded fantastic. The sound was clear and detailed without even a hint of distortion. I’ve always felt our current monitors always sounded too midrange heavy. The LE1200, however, had a much more full-bodied and up-front sound. Because of the differential dispersion technology, the sound was literally “in your face.” Also noticeable was the increased area of sound dispersion. With the LE1200, the SPL was consistent over a much wider area than what our other monitors could produce. The LE1200 definitely delivered everything Martin Audio said it would.
We all know the old cliché “you get what you pay for.” Well, that adage certainly holds true in this case. The LE1200 is simply a first-class piece of equipment and those churches and individuals fortunate enough to own one or more will not be disappointed. While many churches operate on strict budgets, there are others who can afford the very best. The LE1200 offers phenomenal sound, high power, and cutting- edge technology in one extremely attractive package. The LE1200 may not find a home in every church, but if your organization demands the best, the LE1200 is capable of taking your on-stage monitoring to new heights.
Quick Links
MARTIN AUDIO LTD.
LE1200 stage monitor
(519) 747-5853 • www.martin-audio.com
