AVSL CLA-300 User Manual

CLA-300
Active Compact Line Array
Item ref: 171.227, 171.228
User Manual
Warning
To prevent risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose any of the components to rain or moisture. If liquids are spilled on the amplifier panel, stop using immediately, allow unit to dry out and have checked by qualified personnel before further use. Avoid impact or dropping of the cabinets.
No user serviceable parts inside – Do not open the case – refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Safety
Ensure all fixings are secure and adequate for supporting the weight of the CLA-300 Ensure that the power cord is in good condition and adequate for the power rating Check for correct mains voltage and condition of IEC lead before connecting to power outlet Ensure speaker link leads are good condition with no short connections or damaged plugs Connect no more than 4 mid-top array cabinets to one active sub unit Avoid constant overload of the unit (indicated by constant lighting of the PEAK LED) Do not allow any foreign objects to enter the case or through the speaker grilles In case of failure of the CLA-300, disconnect from the mains and check fuse. If fault repeats,
refer to qualified service personnel
Placement
Keep amplifier panel out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources Avoid damp or dusty environments Ensure that the CLA-300 is not positioned in a manner that may cause injury Ensure adequate access to controls and connections
Cleaning
Use a soft cloth with a neutral detergent to clean the casing as required Use a vacuum cleaner to clear ventilation grilles of any dust or debris build-ups Do not use strong solvents for cleaning the unit
Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Citronic CLA-300 active compact line array system. This self-contained unit can operate independently or as part of a larger system to provide accurate, full-range sound reproduction for applications as diverse as theatre, conference, live music venues and houses of worship. Please read and follow the instructions in this manual to achieve the best results and avoid damage through incorrect usage.
Description
The CLA-300 is a self-contained active speaker system which combines an active 2 x 8” subwoofer with a group of 4 arrayed mid-top cabinets. The power amplifier section is housed in the subwoofer unit which, in turn, is linked to power the 4 mid-top cabinets. Each mid-top cabinet houses a pair of 4” mid drivers and a precision ribbon tweeter for high frequencies and is engineered to provide a focused vertical output with a very wide dispersion for maximum horizontal coverage
The input signal is fed via a digitally controlled EQ and dynamics processor to maximize efficiency in the system and enable frequency adjustment to tailor the output to suit the venue or application. Connection to a PC gives access to the DSP processor using the supplied software CDROM, allowing bespoke programming of the response and tone characteristics of the sub and array.
Various installation methods are possible with the custom-designed mounting/flying frame, depending upon the building or surroundings and can be combined to provide modular arrays or multi-point sound reinforcement for larger areas.
Components
Please check the contents when opening the packaging. If any components are missing or damaged, contact your dealer immediately. The package should contain...
1 x Active subwoofer unit 4 x Passive line-array mid-top cabinets 1 x Mounting/flying frame 1 x Packet of fixing hardware 1 x Software CDROM 1 x Mains lead 1 x RS-232 cable 1 x USB cable 4 x Speaker leads
Assembly
The CLA-300 may be assembled as a single vertically flown array, inverted as a floor-standing stack or combined into a multiple array. Assembly for standard flown orientation is shown below.
1. Secure the 4 x M8 eyebolts to the corners of the flying frame. Each eyebolt must be securely
fixed using the appropriate hardware to ensure that there is no movement of the fixing or possibility of becoming unfastened through movement or vibration and should be suspended from a permanent fixing in the ceiling which is adequate for holding the weight of the complete line-array.
2. Undo the M5 thumb screws at the bottom of the active sub and take out the Passive-Active Link
3. Undo the 2 x M5 thumb screws at front side of the passive unit, align the holes with similar at
the base of the sub and fasten the M5 screws through both, securing passive units to the sub
4. Attach the Passive-Active Link and Passive Back Link brackets as shown below (Angle adjustment
is explained in the “Installation” section)
Installation
Single Flown Array
For standard single flown array, installation is executed using 4 supplied eyebolts attached to each corner of the flying frame. Fixings should be the strongest possible type for the substrate or ceiling supports to ensure a fail-safe installation. Suspension via wire rope or steel cables, each with a breaking strain of no less than 200kg is recommended per single line-array system. In some situations, it may be easier to suspend the sub unit first and then assemble line-array speakers below it, ensuring that the weight of each is adequately supported before securing to the array.
Once assembled, the line-array can be curved to address the listening field by selecting various angle points on the Passive Back Link brackets provided. The angle chosen depends largely upon the distance from the audience and the acoustic environment but should be adjusted so that each array speaker unit is vertically focused to evenly distribute the output across the listening field.
Each Passive Back Link bracket has numbered lines for tilt in degrees. Number 1 Hole is used for even number degrees tilt and Number 2 Hole is used for odd number degrees of tilt. Whilst supporting the weight of the passive speaker, use these lines to align the correct fastening hole for the degree of tilt required for each component in the array.
For example, if the required splay angle is 5, the line marked with the number 5 on the Passive Back Link must be aligned with the bottom edge of the groove on the back of the top speaker. The Number 2 Hole on the lower speaker can aligned with the hole in the Passive Back Link and secured using the M5 screw.
Multiple Flown Array
For multiple flown line-array, installation is similar to that of a single array with sub cabinets coupled together and passive units all flown in a single, longer array.
With the uppermost sub unit attached to its flying frame, secure the 4 x M8 eyebolts for flying. Undo the 2 x M5 thumb screws at the bottom of the sub unit and remove the Active-Passive Link bracket.
Subsequent sub units are attached underneath by removing the flying frame(s) and aligning the 4 top corner mounting holes with corresponding holes on the bottom of the sub unit above it. These are secured through using the 4 x M5 thumb screws accordingly.
Connection of passive units from the bottom sub unit is executed in the same way as for a single line array, with each group of 4 passive units linked in a single line-array.
Floor-standing Stack
Where flying or ceiling mounting is not possible, it may be useful to arrange the CLA-300 as a free-standing stack on the floor or on a stage. In this orientation, the sub unit sits on its flying frame on the floor and the passive units are splayed upwards above the sub unit.
Prior to assembly, do not attach the 4 x M8 eyebolts to the flying frame. If the frame is likely to damage the floor surface, protect with rubber or other scratch­resistant material.
Assemble passive units above the sub in the same manner as for a standard flown array shown above but inverted. Splayed angle adjustment may be used for venues with raised rear seating areas (e.g. theatres)
Connection
Using the supplied speaker leads, connect 4 passive units to one sub unit as shown below. For multiple arrays, connect each group of 4 passive units to one sub unit. No more than 4 passive units may be connected to a single sub. Use the supplied IEC lead to connect to mains, ensuring correct voltage and power capacity Connect signal input via XLR (connect to LINE input – not to be confused with RS-485 input) To continue the signal onto further units, connect from the XLR LINE output
Active Amplifier Module with DSP
The internal amplifier in the sub unit is optimized for use in conjunction with the 4 passive array speakers with built-in stepless variable fan cooling, overload protection and short-circuit protection. The rear panel features a power switch and single rotary volume control with PEAK LED. If this LED lights more than momentarily, the amplifier is liable to clip and the volume control should be reduced until the PEAK LED lights only for an instant each time.
Input signal is processed via a DSP circuit for dynamics and EQ control, helping to protect the system and tailor the tonal response to the venue or particular application. A CDROM is included containing PC editing software for the CLA-300 processor section. Connection to a PC can be made using USB, RS-232 or RS-485). See “Software Application Guide” for further information.
1. Power switch
2. Mains fuse (replace only with approved type)
3. IEC mains inlet
4. Speaker output connectors (pin 1+ hot, pin 1- cold) parallel linked
5. USB port
6. RS-232 port (9-pin D connector)
7. Rotary VOLUME control
8. PEAK LED indicator
9. RS-485 output (digital XLRM connector)
10. RS-485 input (digital XLRF connector)
11. LINE signal output (XLRM)
12. LINE signal input (XLRF)
Software Application Guide
The CLA-300 is supplied with a CDROM containing software. This software is also available for download from www.avsl-citronic.com/product/171.227UK
System Requirements
PC running Microsoft Windows XP or above. Display resolution 1024 x 768 or above USB or RS-232 port
Connection to PC
Connect directly to PC via USB using the supplied cable. The PC will find a “new device”,
prompting the computer to look for driver software. The driver file is included on the CDROM (Browse to the “Driver” directory)
If USB connection is not available, serial port link can be made from the RS-232 input on the
rear panel using the supplied D-connector lead, again requiring driver installation from CDROM
For PCs with an RS-485 interface using XLR connection, this can be used to connect from the
PC to the CLA-300 and passed from one CLA-300 to another using the RS-485 output connector
Software Operation
Install the software (Active Speaker Controller.exe) from CDROM or download and run from the start menu or desktop shortcut. The user interface window will appear as shown below.
Menu Bar Description
File
Communications
Program
Device
Help
Open files from
PC memory
Enable or Disable Communications
from PC to CLA-300
Display Current Program No
Modify
device information (if CLA-300 connected)
Software version and information
Display Current Program Name
Save current
configuration as a file to PC
Display Current Program Info
Configure Serial Port to be used
List Program & Recall
Save as Current Program in Device
Communication
Once connected to PC, click the Communications tab and select Enable Communications
The PC will search for the CLA-300 and display “Search Device…” on the bottom status bar
Once the CLA-300 device is detected, a Device Select window will appear as shown here.
Connected devices are listed on the left, showing the ID number. The current selected device ID number is displayed on the left-hand side. In multiple array setups, each must be allocated an individual ID number if they are to be controlled separately.
To load the current internal program from the CLA-300 into the software for editing, select “Upload Program Data From Device”. If the program currently held in the software is to be loaded into the CLA-300, select “Download Program Data To Device”
Select the required device by clicking on it on the right-hand side of the window and click “Connect” The current program status will populate the control window as shown below.
Signal Processing Functions
INPUT PEQ 1 + 2
(2 x Parametric Equalizer)
Filter Type: Peaking, Bandpass, Hi Shelf, Lo Shelf and Notch
Frequency: 20Hz – 20kHz
Bandwidth: 0.31 – 19.4 Octave
Level: -12 – +12dB
LEVEL
Level: -90 – +12dB
HIGH HPF
(High cabinets high-pass filter)
Filter Type: 3 x Butterworth, 3 x Bessel filter slopes
Frequency: Off, 20Hz-20kHz
HIGH LPF
(High cabinets low-pass filter)
Filter Type: 3 x Butterworth, 3 x Bessel filter slopes
Frequency: 20Hz-20kHz, Off
LOW HPF
(Sub cabinets high-pass filter)
Filter Type: 3 x Butterworth, 3 x Bessel filter slopes
Frequency: Off, 20Hz-20kHz
LOW LPF
(Sub cabinets low-pass filter)
Filter Type: 3 x Butterworth, 3 x Bessel filter slopes
Frequency: 20Hz-20kHz, Off
HIGH OUTPUT PEQ 1-6
(High cabinets 6-band Parametric Equalizer)
Filter Type: Peaking, Bandpass, Hi Shelf, Lo Shelf and Notch
Frequency: 20Hz – 20kHz
Bandwidth: 0.31 – 19.4 Octave
Level: -12 – +12dB
LOW OUTPUT PEQ 1-6
(Sub cabinets 6-band Parametric Equalizer)
Filter Type: Peaking, Bandpass, Hi Shelf, Lo Shelf and Notch
Frequency: 20Hz – 20kHz
Bandwidth: 0.31 – 19.4 Octave
Level: -12 – +12dB
HIGH OUTPUT LEVEL
(High cabinets output level)
Phase: Normal, inverse
Level: -90 – +12dB
LOW OUTPUT LEVEL
(Sub cabinets output level)
Phase: Normal, inverse
Level: -90 – +12dB
COMPRESSION & LIMIT
(Overall dynamics compression and limiting)
Threshold: -49.5dB – 0.0dB
Ratio: 1:1 – Infinity (brick wall limit)
RMS Time: 0.01msec – 15sec
Release Time: 0.01msec – 15sec
Attack Time: 0.01msec – 15sec
HIGH DELAY
(High cabinets time delay)
ms (milliseconds) 0 – 21.2292ms (corresponding distance in metres and ft/inches displayed)
LOW DELAY
(Sub cabinets time delay)
ms (milliseconds) 0 – 21.2292ms (corresponding distance in metres and ft/inches displayed)
The upper half of the control window shows a signal flow chart comprising various function buttons. Clicking on any of these buttons opens the parameters on the right side of the frequency chart which can be adjusted via further buttons and drop-down menus.
Adjustment of the above parameters is represented by corresponding changes on the frequency curve display. Combined equalization curves are shown on the EQ page and combined crossover curves are shown on the HPF/LPF page.
Program Management
Once adjustment of the program parameters is complete as required, the current displayed settings
can be stored as a file to PC for future use. On the menu bar, click “File” and “Save as” and browse
to the preferred directory and name the file to save for future reference. This can be repeated for many versions of the program with different settings if required. These files can later be loaded into the software from PC memory by clicking “File” and then “Open”, browsing to the relevant file.
To load the current program from the software to the CLA-300, click “Program” and select “Save As Current Program In Device”. The drop-down menu offers the choice of program numbers to save to.
To recall program(s) stored in the CLA-300, click “Program” and select “List Program & Recall”. A list of internal programs will appear – click “Recall” to load the required program into the software.
Device Information
For each CLA-300 connected to the PC, the ID number and Device Name can be edited from the software editor. Click on the “Device” tab and select “Edit Current Device Information”. Note: Device ID is limited from 1 to 10, allowing up to 10 devices to be addressed separately connected in a group via RS-485 to the PC. Device name is limited to 14 ASCII characters.
Program Name
To change the current program name, click on the “Program” tab and select “Edit Current Program Name” and type in the new program name.
Disconnecting
If it is decided not to save the edited program to the CLA-300, click “Communications” tab and select “Disable Communications” and the CLA-300 internal program will remain unchanged and can now be
disconnected from the PC
Technical Information
Frequency Response
Phase Response
Waterfall
THD
Impedance Curve – Active Unit
Impedance Curve – Ribbon Tweeter
Horizontal Directivity
Vertical Directivity
Specifications
Power supply
230Vac 50/60Hz (IEC)
Frequency range
50Hz – 20kHz
Max SPL
115dB/121dB (PEAK)
Horizontal dispersion
120
Vertical dispersion
30 - 90
Max constant power output for sub unit
300Wrms
Max constant power output for mid-top units
4 x 75Wrms
Total power max
1100W
Mid-top drivers (each cabinet)
2 x 100mm (4”) + 1 x ribbon tweeter
Sub drivers
2 x 200mm (8”)
Fuse
T6.3AL
Dimensions
492 x 608 x 900mm
Weight
45kg
Errors and omissions excepted.
Copyright© 2012. AVSL Group Ltd.
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