PreSonus Audio Electronics has added the CDL-series loudspeakers to its line of sound reinforcement designs.
The CDL12 Constant Directivity Loudspeaker combines the best attributes of point source and line array technology into a patent-pending design, radiating a highly focused pattern with consistent SPL throughout the frequency response range, both on- and off-axis. The companion CDL18s subwoofer uses a ported design to maximise efficiency to create a big bass sound from a compact cabinet. Both Dante-enabled, powered enclosures can be flown as a vertical array, or combined for ground-stacked applications to create a complete, coherent loudspeaker system with an even response across the frequency spectrum.
Each CDL12 comprises eight 2-inch drivers aligned in a segmented circular-arc high-frequency array centred in front of a 12-inch woofer. The output of the low-frequency driver travels from the same acoustic axis as the high-frequency array so that the pattern always radiates from the centre of the CDL12 – whether used individually, or as part of an acoustically coupled vertical array with up to six enclosures. Because of this, the CDL12 avoids the close-field anomalies that can interfere with the sound quality of a traditional line array. This makes the CDL12 suited to a broader range of venue sizes, creating a far-field response almost immediately as the sound is projected from the centre of the enclosure. The controlled 120˚ horizontal coverage pattern is maintained while the vertical coverage is expanded by 20˚ per box deployed. The result is a system that can be scaled from 20˚ to 120˚ of vertical coverage.
The CDL12’s hybrid point source/line array design combines the benefits of both technologies and delivers very focused sound with consistent SPL. Furthermore, a low 420Hz crossover frequency minimises comb filtering and doesn’t compete with conventional vocal range. As a line array system for fixed installations, the ability to fly five enclosures under one or two companion CDL18s subwoofers provides considerable flexibility when addressing room size. The CDL12 includes an integrated 500W x 500W class-D power amplifier with onboard DSP presets. The loudspeaker’s support for Dante audio networking brings the benefits of IT networking to professional A/V installations while providing full remote access for system tuning via PreSonus’ Worx Control software.
The CDL18s features a port configuration that maximises efficiency from a compact cabinet. Each of the four triangle-shaped ports is placed in a corner so that it couples to the cabinet, using the sidewalls to effectively elongate each port and allowing the CDL18s to move more air in a compact enclosure. Its custom 18-inch low-frequency transducer with 4-inch voice coil can travel 7 mm before over-excursion, and easily handles 800W, providing the articulate low-end punch audio professionals demand.
‘The CDL12 and CDL18s combine to form a terrific sounding, great looking sound reinforcement system that is equally adept as a portable PA or for use as an installed sound solution,’ says PreSonus Commercial Division Director, Tony Flammia. ‘Dante connectivity facilitates interoperability with a wide range of equipment. Add to all this the robust, integrated pin-loaded rigging and the ability to remotely control the DSP from Worx Control, and you have a feature-rich sound system that is extremely capable.’
The PreSonus CDL12 loudspeaker and CDL18s sub bass enclosure are expected to be available Q4 2018, both with an MAP of US$1999.95.
More: www.presonus.com
