JBL’s flagship VTX line array series has been expanded with the release of the VTX A6 subcompact dual 6.5-inch passive line array element and B15 compact, arrayable 15-inch subwoofer, intended for small-to-medium sized touring and fixed installations.
‘When you choose the JBL VTX A Series, you’re building a complete ecosystem, with common acoustic profiles and rigging systems, consistent voicing and standardised system design and operational tools,’ says Harman Professional Solutions Director of Product Management–Performance Audio, George Georgallis. ‘With VTX technologies in a new ultra-compact package, you’re able to maximise your investment and deliver VTX quality and performance in any scale application.’
In tended to appeal to production companies, touring acts, rental houses, theatres and houses of worship, the A6 6.5-inch passive two-way line array element is engineered from the ground up for sonic performance and ease of integration and deployment, as a standalone system or as a supplement to larger VTX systems. It houses two custom 6.5-inch woofers and a 3-inch annular-diaphragm compression driver and features acoustic innovations pioneered in JBL’s VTX line, including JBL’s Radiation Boundary Integrator (RBI) and Differential Drive dual-voicecoil, dual-magnet woofer. It all adds up to big-system performance in a low-profile loudspeaker, with low-frequency extension to 67Hz and 134dB max SPL.
Offering low-end support for VTX full-range systems, the VTX B15 15-inch subwoofer features SlipStream double-flared exponential ports and Differential Drive dual-voicecoil design. It is based on JBL’s new 2285H 15-inch woofer, which is engineered for linearity, efficiency and excursion to rival 18-inch models. Two B15 versions are available – the arrayable B15 and the B15G, which is designed without rigging hardware for ground-stacked applications.
Both the A6 and B15 are designed for versatile rigging and system integration. The A6 uses the VTX A Series’ rigging system for accurate, easy deployment. Splay angles are set while components are on the ground and, once the system is suspended, a locking mechanism automatically secures cabinets in designated positions. The B15 has the same cabinet width and suspension hardware as the A6, allowing the two to be used together in flown and ground-stacked configurations; the B15 supports cardioid array configurations.
System operation and information sharing can be done in real time using JBL’s suite of software tools, including the LAC-3 design app, the Array Link deployment tool and Performance Manager configuration and control app.
JBL VTX A Series products are constructed to withstand the conditions of touring and outdoor installations. Enclosures are built from exterior-grade birch plywood with black Duraflex finish and feature powder-coated, hex-perforated stainless steel grilles with acoustically transparent cloth backing. Units are IP55-rated and metal parts are made from high-grade steel with anti-corrosion coating.
