With attention distracted by the shift to various flavors of networked sound systems, another fundamental decision still looms large when it comes to making decisions about sound systems: to go passive or active? Passive speakers, which rely on power supplied from remote amplifiers, are still the most widely used solution. They need only speaker cables to supply signal, though the systems require more power to feed distant transducers. Active, or self-powered, speakers come with integrated amplifiers, so the compatibility between them is usually perfect, requiring little or no EQ or processing, and systems can be spread across larger areas since each speaker carries its own amplifier. On the down side, each speaker requires a separate power source, and the additional weight of the amp/speaker combination might require additional rigging and support. But those who prefer powered speakers happily assert that the increase in sonic quality they offer as a result of their innate advantages more than compensates for that.
Self-powered 3-way speaker systems offer a useful synergy where sonic quality is a premium concern and weight and other rigging concerns are less of an issue.
In terms of loudspeaker types, PA and installed-speaker cabinets will generally come in either two-way or three-way varieties, which denotes the number and types of speakers in the enclosure. Three-way systems, which allocate high, midrange and low frequencies across three dedicated speakers, usually offer the most precisely tailored mix, because each transducer is tuned for a specific range of frequencies. Two-way systems will reallocate that spectrum across two speakers, which may not be as spectrally efficient or effective. The trade off is mainly in weight: a three-way enclosure will generally weigh more, a consideration for transportation and rigging concerns. Other considerations come into play in the choice, such as how effectively the crossover is calibrated; the quality of the components; the design of the cabinet; and cost, which is generally higher for three-way systems, the quality of the transducers and other components being equal. Self-powered three-way speaker systems offer a useful synergy where sonic quality is a premium concern and weight and other rigging concerns are less of an issue. Here are some of the options those who go the powered/three-way route can choose from.
QSC’s KW153 active trapezoidal loudspeaker features a 15-inch woofer; 6.5-inch midrange woofer; and 1.75-inch diaphragm compression driver providing frequency response of 33 Hz to 20 kHz and 75 degrees of conical Directivity Matched Transition (DMT) coverage at a maximum peak SPL of 134 dB. It is powered by a 1,000-watt Class D power module (2 × 500 W continuous). There is an integrated onboard mixer with two combo XLR and ¼-inch inputs, and stereo RCA inputs (three audio input sources). Unique performance features include extensive DSP featuring DEEP and Intrinsic Correction, further enhancing system performance. KW153 can be flown via integrated M10 rigging points.
EAW Anna3-Way Full-Range Array Module
The compact and lightweight Anna 3-Way Full-Range Array Module from EAW brings the benefits of EAW’s Adaptive Performance to mid-sized applications requiring excellent sound quality, high output and precise coverage, as well as the ability to quickly adapt that coverage to any venue geometry. The modules hang straight, without any vertical splay, while Resolution 2 software adapts performance to produce custom-tailored, full-range coverage pattern to perfectly match the venue. Anna modules include 14 built-in amplifier and processing channels, independently powering and processing each.
The Electro-Voice ETX-35P is the company’s flagship powered 3-way box. Part of E-V’s ETX powered loudspeaker series, the ETX-35P features a 15-inch woofer with a 6.5-inch MF driver and a precision, HF, titanium compression driver. Inside each low-profile, tour-grade wood enclosure is a range of unique features that set the ETX series apart, combining intelligent technology and innovative industrial design for spectacular results across all applications. EV-engineered high-efficiency transducers and high-powered Class-D amplifiers (2,000W), Signal Synchronized Transducers (SST) waveguide design and smart FIR-Drive DSP all work together to provide excellent sound quality and precise coverage at the highest SPLs.
The JBL SRX835P is 3-way powered loudspeaker system featuring 2,000 watts of Crown amplification, a patented differential-drive 15-inch woofer, a 6.5-inch horn-loaded midrange for pattern control, and a large-format 3-inch neodymium compression driver. Maximum SPL is very high at 137 dB and frequency range extends down to 33 Hz. On-board DSP is user-configurable via back panel LED or Audio Architect software, featuring 96-kHz FIR filters, 20 parametric EQs, six JBL-engineered presets plus 50 user-recallable presets for multi-use applications, advanced LevelMax limiting for protection, and a full two seconds of delay when using the speaker in delay/fill locations. The cabinet is wood with 12 suspension points.
Martin Audio’s MLA Compact is a three-way, active system that features 2x10-inch horn-loaded, low-frequency woofers, 2X5-ich midrange speakers, and 4x0.7-inch HF sections to raise efficiency and increase output. Each acoustic element has its own on-board amplifier and DSP, which can be optimized by software to deliver the sound across the audience to meet the sonic goals required for any space. MLA Compact can generate an even sound field over the audience as well as contain it, thereby significantly reducing the influence of the room. Coverage of “hard avoid” areas, such as behind and below the array, ceilings, balcony edges and beyond the venue perimeter, can also be programmed in.
RCF’s flagship powered speaker system is the RCF TTL33-A II, an active, tri-amped, three-way cabinet designed for performing arts sound reinforcement. The ultra-compact cabinet features two 8-inch LF woofer, one 8-inch midrange, and three 1-inch HF compression drivers with a 100-degree by 15-degree dispersion pattern. Frequency response is 60 Hz-20 kHz. RCF RDNet is onboard for DSP programming as well as monitoring of all cabinet components. The TTL33-A is an ideal tool for outdoor sound reinforcement, live performances and events, as well as fixed installations in theaters, concert halls or auditoriums.
The Renkus-Heinz T Series incorporates the next generation of rotatable Complex Conic Horns, with reimagined driver design to provide clean, natural sound and tight pattern control. Complex Conic horns provide consistent beamwidth over a wider frequency range, with natural, transparent sound. Powered T Series loudspeakers are driven by new Renkus-Heinz SA Series amplification, a technology designed to unify all Renkus-Heinz loudspeakers across connectivity and control platforms. SA Series amplifiers are equipped with native DSP, including delay, EQ, and nine available presets. Connectivity configurations include analog input, AES, and Dante, with RHAON II control and monitoring, in copper and optical formats.
