Launched in 2017, the Clair Brothers C12 line array is reportedly now available with a breakthrough innovation: Clair TrueFit Technology – the first modular, bespoke waveguide. A panel of expert judges at InfoComm 2017 recognized the C12-TrueFit’s inventive sound craft, awarding it a "Best of Show" honor. (Competition criteria included ease of installation, use and maintenance, performance, relevance, value/ROI, network friendliness, versatility and reliability.)
The C12-TrueFit represents the latest double 12-inch format mid-sized line array, and an industry first in integration optimization, according to the company. For those seeking the top of the line in custom horizontal configurations, the company reports that Clair TrueFit waveguides are singularly configured, continuously variable waveguides designed to order.
For direct application, a TrueFit array is designed collaboratively with the customer, architectural consultants, and venue staff through a few simple steps....
A Clair TrueFit system design reduces energy wasted on walls and effectively extends the stereo image over a greater audience area. Fewer lateral reflections create greater focus and better intelligibility. System tuning is faster and easier since the acoustical problem of geometric divergence shading is already solved with the TrueFit 3D acoustical solution.
What is TrueFit Technology?
For direct application, a TrueFit array is designed collaboratively with the customer, architectural consultants, and venue staff through a few simple steps. First, the array type and location is determined in a conventional sense and signed off on by the customer. Venue-specific details and other criteria are input into Clair Brothers' proprietary design software culminating in the creation of a fluid form waveguide with continuously variable geometry. Explains Josh Sadd, vice president and chief engineer at Clair Brothers, “Rather than quantizing speaker coverage in a stepped sequence of approximate angles, the TrueFit geometric forms are mathematically derived using our proprietary progressive azimuth technology. We use the latest in 3D CAD and produce the custom parts with state-of-the-art 3D CAM software.” Finished waveguides are CNC-milled in-house from Baltic Birch, the superb sounding material used on all Clair waveguides and horns.
The result is a unique, venue-specific loudspeaker array that provides naturally even coverage for audience areas and minimizes architectural reflection and anomalies. “What was once a dream is now possible,” states Sadd.
TrueFit Technology is currently on offer in the following Clair Brothers' products:
- C12-TrueFit (double 12-inch line array)
- C8-TrueFit (double 8-inch line array)
- kiTCURVE12-TrueFit (curved live array)
- kiTCURVE12-TrueFit+ (self-powered, curved line array)
The C12 and C8 continue to be offered in standard installation and portable models (C12-i, C12-M, C8-i, C8-M) featuring a new transducer technology with two noteworthy benefits: Significant weight reduction and a reduction in amplifier channel requirements. Better still, there are no technical trade-offs since these features enhance the ability for the line array to be digitally beam-steered in the vertical plane with F.I.R. processing. These models are available with a range of horizontal waveguide patterns (between 60- and 140-degree), while standard factory waveguides are 90-degreeH and 120-degreeH. Standard symmetrical and asymmetrical coverage angles are also offered as catalog items.
Clair Brothers reports that all products are available for purchase or rental immediately.
