Built on the same power platform as the K Series and KW Series powered loudspeakers, the KLA Series from QSC Audio Products is a fixed arcuate, active line array system. The system is intended for a wide range of portable and permanent install applications, including houses of worship and entertainment venues.
‘Ease-of-use in terms of deployment and system tuning were the key elements driving the KLA design,’ says Product Manager Phil Sanchez. ‘As a complete systems provider, we are determined to offer real-world, practical solutions that meet their needs for a variety of applications. The current state of line arrays is that they are inherently expensive and require considerable effort to deploy. In offering the KLA solution, we’ve managed to bring to market a product that is both attractively priced and fast to implement. This arrangement makes line array technology more accessible to a larger customer segment and will serve as practical audio solution for many more users than ever before possible.’
The line comprises two models, the KLA1212-inch, two-way, line array element and the KLA181 18-inch subwoofer enclosure. Both models feature a highly-efficient, 1kW (continuous) class-D power module and QSC’s proprietary Intrinsic Correction, introduced with the QSC WideLine Series, for optimal acoustical performance across the entire sound field. The KLA’s self-contained Solo (Single-Operator Logistics) Rigging System enables users to quickly assemble (and disassemble) a line array in a fraction of the time of comparable systems and without the need for special tools or external hardware.
Another feature found specifically on the KLA12 is Ar-Q (Arcuate Equalization) frequency optimisation. With a click of a dial on the back panel, users select the total number of boxes deployed in the array. In response, the Ar-Q system makes the appropriate frequency compensation adjustments resulting in an evenly balanced and accurate tonal curve.
As a fixed arcuate array, each box is set at an 18˚ splay angle, allowing 90˚ arrays to be configured using only five boxes rather than the six typically found in competing products. For portable applications, the Tilt-Direct 35mm pole socket on the KLA12 allows the loudspeaker to be mounted on a tripod or pole and aimed for the best audience coverage.
In establishing maximum flexibility, the KLA181 subwoofer includes a rotary polarity switch for low frequency directivity control, a threaded pole socket for mounting up to two KLA12 loudspeakers on top, and can be flown via M10 fittings on the top of the enclosure.
Continuing the design elements established in the popular K and KW Series loudspeakers, both KLA Series models incorporate QSC’s Deep DSP algorithm, providing extended bass response by actively managing potentially damaging low-frequency transients, and GuardRail circuitry protection which prevents the amplifier module from unnatural and destructive clipping. Additional power module characteristics include an analogue input section with a balanced, line-level XLR input in parallel with an XLR ‘thru’ connector, PowerCon In and Thru connectors, Attenuation Control, LED indicators (Signal, Limit, Power/Standby Status) and Auto Standby mode which engages after five minutes of inactivity – an energy saving feature. Upon resumption of audio signal, the amplifier in the KLA power module awakens instantly.
Fully supported in Ease and Ease Focus, the KLA Series will be offered in both black and white finishes and is slated for availability in early Spring 2011.
