Orbital Sound is to open a demonstration zone in conjunction with Flare Audio Limited – the first facility to provide a comprehensive London demonstration resource for the loudspeaker manufacturer.

The facility will include the scalable X5A Vertical Point Source Array, which can be used as a single unit for point-source applications, ground-stacked in small arrays, or in a hang of up to 22 enclosures. Its smaller sister, the X2A Compact Vertical Point Source Array, is based on the same engineering and design principles within a highly compact footprint. The Flare Array Configuration software provides X5A and X2A array prediction data for Ease Focus 2, and gives access to an industry-standard toolkit. Designed as a true crossover loudspeaker, the Flare X3 is a reference quality tri- or bi-amped point-source high pack that is suited to clubs and cinemas, portable sound, an infill for touring applications. The X0A Micro offers a mini auditorium delay and infill speaker system. It can be used on its own as a delay or low-level installation speaker, or arrayed in a Vertical Point Source. Completing the current portfolio are Flare’s Q Series Directional Touring Bass and the SB Series Flat Panel Bass speakers, together with the S1 Ultimate Reference Monitors.

‘A London-based demo facility is a resource that we have needed for a long time, and with Orbital’s investment, it will make a real difference to our ability to demonstrate the range,’ says Flare Audio CEO, Davies Roberts. ‘When you introduce a completely new set of design concepts, it is vital to be able to give people the right environment and technical support to explore the products’ potential. Flare developed X2A and X0A specifically for use in theatres and venues. Working closely alongside Orbital, the Flare R&D team tweaked the design so that it was perfect for their requirements. Our partnership with Orbital reflects the fact that there is a real synergy between our two companies – in terms of innovative forward thinking, technical excellence and a determination to think outside of the box and provide the market with some exciting alternatives.’

‘As Flare’s UK & Eire distributor, we can introduce the Flare concept to a much wider audience by setting up this new demonstration centre at our Brixton headquarters – complemented by having an expert technical team on hand in support,’ Orbital Sound MD Chris Headlam explains. ‘With such extraordinarily innovative design as Flare Audio, you need to be able to provide the right environment for people to listen and explore the range in detail. We are incredibly excited by what Flare has achieved, to the extent that we are augmenting our rental inventory with three full touring X2A line array systems, combined with Flare’s modular X0A infill, surround and delay units, the Q18 high power subs, and the real dark horse in our view, the SB21 flat panel bass speakers. There is an openness and transparency to the Flare sound – something which we previously did not think was achievable over distance at volume. Flare has demonstrated that it can be done, delivering high definition audio, exceptional vocal clarity and an extremely accurate sonic footprint. The result is quite simply amazing.’