Electro-Voice EKX-18SP, EKX-15P, EKX-12P, EKX-15SP User manual

EKX Powered Loudspeakers

EKX-12P, EKX-15P, EKX-15SP, and EKX-18SP

en | User Manual

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1.1 Important Safety Instructions 4

1.2 FCC Information 5

1.3 Precautions 6

1.4 Suspension 6

2.1 System features 8

2.2 Quick Setup 9

3.1 Dimensions 11

4.1 Tripod or pole mount 12

4.2 Floor monitor 14

6.1 Amplifier DSP controls 19

6.2 System status 21

6.3 DSP controls 22

6.3.1 Full-Range loudspeaker DSP control menu 23

6.3.2 Subwoofer DSP control menu 28

7.1 Daisy-chaining full-range systems 33

7.2 MP3 player MONO configuration 34

7.3 MP3 player STEREO configuration 35

7.4 Using full-range systems as monitors 36

7.5 Stacking full-range systems with subwoofers 37

7.6 Cardioid Control Technology 38

9.1 Frequency response 44

Safety 4

Description 7

System overview 11

Tripod and floor monitor operation 12

Suspension 15

Amplifier DSP 19

Recommended configurations 33

Troubleshooting 40

Technical data 42

Electro-Voice User Manual 2015.02 | 03 | F.01U.308.095

EKX Powered Loudspeakers

1.1

Safety

Important Safety Instructions

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF

FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT OVEREXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE, NE PAS OUVRIR. WARNING: THE MAINS PLUG OR AC INLET IS USED AS A DISCONNECT DEVICE. THE DISCONNECT DEVICE SHALL REMAIN READILY OPERABLE. WARNING: CONNECT ONLY TO MAINS SOCKET WITH PROTECTIVE EARTHING CONNECTION. WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK) AS THERE ARE NO USER-SERVICABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.

The lightening flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

The asterisk within an equilateral triangle is intended to inform the user to necessary installation or removal instructions regarding equipment or hardware use relating to the system.

1. Read these instructions.

2. Keep these instructions.

3. Heed all warnings.

4. Follow all instructions.

5. Do not use this apparatus near water.

6. Clean only with a dry cloth.

7. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

8. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

9. Do not expose this apparatus to dripping or splashing and ensure that no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, are placed on this apparatus.

10. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturers instructions.

11. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

12. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

13. Unplug the apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

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14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

15. To completely disconnect AC power from this apparatus, the power supply cord must be unplugged.

Old electrical and electronic appliances

Electrical or electronic devices that are no longer serviceable must be collected separately and sent for environmentally compatible recycling (in accordance with the European Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive). To dispose of old electrical or electronic devices, you should use the return and collection systems put in place in the country concerned.

1.2

FCC Information

IMPORTANT: Do not modify this unit! Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the

manufacturer could void the user’s authority, granted by the FCC, to operate the equipment.

Notice!

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital

device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable

protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates,

uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with

the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is

no guarantee interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does

cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by

turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by

one or more of the following measures:

▪ Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. ▪ Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. ▪ Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the

receiver is connected.

▪ Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician.

Electro-Voice User Manual 2015.02 | 03 | F.01U.308.095

EKX Powered Loudspeakers

1.3

Precautions

If an Electro-Voice loudspeaker is used outdoors on a sunny day, place the loudspeaker in a shaded or covered area. The loudspeaker amplifiers have protection circuits that temporarily shut the loudspeaker off when extremely high temperatures are reached. This can happen on hot days when the loudspeaker is in direct sunlight.

Do not use Electro-Voice loudspeakers in an environment where temperatures are below 0°C (32°F) or exceed +40°C (104°F).

Never expose an Electro-Voice loudspeaker to rain, water, or high moisture.

Electro-Voice loudspeakers are easily capable of generating sound pressure levels sufficient to cause permanent hearing damage to anyone within normal coverage distance. Caution should be taken to avoid prolonged exposure to sound pressure levels exceeding 90 dB.

1.4

Suspension

Warning!

Suspending any object is potentially dangerous and should only be attempted by individuals

who have a thorough knowledge of the techniques and regulations of suspending objects

overhead. Electro-Voice strongly recommends all loudspeakers be suspended taking into

account all current national, federal, state, and local laws and regulations. It is the

responsibility of the installer to ensure all loudspeakers are safely installed in accordance

with all such requirements. When loudspeakers are suspended, Electro-Voice strongly

recommends the system be inspected at least once per year or as laws and regulations

require. If any sign of weakness or damage is detected, remedial action should be taken

immediately. The user is responsible for making sure the wall, ceiling, or structure is capable

of supporting all objects suspended overhead. Any hardware used to suspend a loudspeaker

not associated with Electro-Voice is the responsibility of others.

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Description

Thank you for choosing an Electro-Voice powered loudspeaker system. Please take time to consult the manual to understand all the features built into your EV system and fully utilize its performance capabilities.

The EKX series is the newest member of the Electro-Voice portable loudspeaker family, and combines legendary EV sound quality and reliability with the latest technology — all in a compact package suitable for a wide range of sound reinforcement scenarios, including musicians/DJs and live/club/installed sound applications. The EKX series features eight (8) models (four (4) powered and four (4) passive), including 12-inch and 15-inch two-way models and 15-inch and 18-inch subwoofers.

EV-engineered components, Signal Synchronized Transducers (SST) waveguide design, and Class D amplifiers (up to 1500 W) coupled with QuickSmartDSP all work together to provide precise coverage and superior sound quality at high SPLs. EV’s award-winning industrial design — with robust wood enclosures and durable EVCoat finish — ensures that EKX speakers look as great as they sound.

Powered EKX models feature high-efficiency Class-D power amplifiers (up to 1500 W) with integrated QuickSmartDSP, and deliver up to 134 dB SPL utilizing high-sensitivity transducers designed and engineered by EV (12-inch EVS-12M woofer / 15-inch EVS-15M woofer, each coupled with a DH-1M 1-inch titanium compression driver; 15-inch EVS-15C subwoofer / 18inch EVS-18C subwoofer).

The EKX amplifier incorporates intelligent thermal management (with a variable-speed fan controlled by multiple onboard sensors) which ensures superior performance and reliability in demanding environmental conditions.

Powered models allow easy setup via four (4) presets (Music, Live, Speech*, Club), sub/top system-match crossovers, three-band EQ*, five (5) user-programmable presets (Store and Recall settings), visual monitoring of limiter status, input level control* and meters, and master volume control to ensure optimal gain structure. (* not available on subwoofers)

Adapted from our touring systems, EV’s exclusive Cardioid Control Technology allows output to be steered towards the audience with up to 35 dB reduction on stage when multiple subs are deployed.

EKX powered models are ideal for portable and installed applications, with lightweight and compact 15-mm wood enclosures with internal bracing, durable EVCoat finish, eight (8) M10 threaded mounting points (full-range only), aluminum pole-mounts, and all-metal handles.

Electro-Voice User Manual 2015.02 | 03 | F.01U.308.095

EKX Powered Loudspeakers

2.1

System features

EKX-12P – 12-inch two-way powered loudspeaker system

▪ QuickSmartDSP features best-in-class processing, EV’s signature single-knob user

interface, and intuitive menu navigation via LCD.

▪ High-efficiency 1500 W Class-D power amplifier delivers up to 132 dB SPL via high-

sensitivity transducers designed and engineered by EV.

▪ Intelligent thermal management with a

variable-speed fan controlled by multiple onboard sensors.

▪ EV-patented Signal Synchronized Transducers (SST) waveguide design provides precise

and consistent coverage.

▪ Lightweight, compact 15-mm wood enclosure with internal bracing, durable EVCoat

finish, eight (8) M10 threaded mounting points, aluminum pole-mounts, and all-metal handles.

EKX-15P – 15-inch two-way powered loudspeaker system

▪ QuickSmartDSP features best-in-class processing, EV’s signature single-knob user

interface, and intuitive menu navigation via LCD.

▪ High-efficiency 1500 W Class-D power amplifier delivers up to 134 dB SPL via next-

generation high-sensitivity transducers designed and engineered by EV.

▪ Intelligent thermal management with a

variable-speed fan controlled by multiple onboard sensors.

▪ EV-patented Signal Synchronized Transducers (SST) waveguide design provides precise

and consistent coverage.

▪ Lightweight, compact 15-mm wood enclosure with internal bracing, durable EVCoat

finish, eight (8) M10 threaded mounting points, aluminum pole-mounts, and all-metal handles.

EKX-15SP – 15-inch powered subwoofer loudspeaker system

▪ QuickSmartDSP features best-in-class processing, EV’s signature single-knob user

interface, and intuitive menu navigation via LCD.

▪ Cardioid Control Technology allows output to be steered towards the audience with up to

35 dB reduction on stage when multiple subs are deployed.

▪ High-efficiency 1300 W Class-D power amplifier delivers up to 133 dB SPL utilizing high-

sensitivity transducers designed and engineered by EV.

▪ Intelligent thermal management with a

variable-speed fan controlled by multiple onboard sensors.

▪ Two (2) XLR outputs for easy system expansion to additional loudspeakers or

subwoofers. Large slot ports for low distortion and excellent bass extension. Metal grille reinforcement bar. M20 threaded pole mount plate.

EKX-18SP – 18-inch powered subwoofer loudspeaker system

▪ QuickSmartDSP features best-in-class processing, EV’s signature single-knob user

interface, and intuitive menu navigation via LCD.

▪ Cardioid Control Technology allows output to be steered towards the audience with up to

35 dB reduction on stage when multiple subs are deployed.

▪ High-efficiency 1300 W Class-D power amplifier delivers up to 134 dB SPL utilizing high-

sensitivity transducers designed and engineered by EV.

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▪ Intelligent thermal management with a

variable-speed fan controlled by multiple onboard sensors.

▪ Two (2) XLR outputs for easy system expansion to additional loudspeakers or

subwoofers. Large slot ports for low distortion and excellent bass extension. Two (2) metal grille reinforcement bar. M20 threaded pole mount plate.

2.2

Quick Setup

The EKX powered loudspeakers from Electro-Voice with carefully matched electronics and transducers. These products make it easy to set up a high quality system quickly with a minimum amount of cables and external electronics.

Full-Range loudspeaker

Models: EKX-12P and EKX-15P To set up a full-range loudspeaker, do the following:

Step Illustration

1. Connect the AC power cord from a grounded line receptacle to the MAINS IN.

2. Connect the XLR, TRS, or RCA cable from an audio source to INPUT 1 or INPUT 2.

3. Adjust the input gain to (infinity).

4. Switch POWER to ON.

5. From the DSP home screen, increase the input gain to the desired sound output.

6. Adjust the MASTER VOL knob to the desired volume.

Electro-Voice User Manual 2015.02 | 03 | F.01U.308.095

EKX Powered Loudspeakers

Subwoofer

Models: EKX-15SP and EKX-18SP To set up a subwoofer, do the following:

Step Illustration

1. Connect the AC power cord from a grounded line receptacle to the MAINS IN.

2. Connect the XLR or TRS cable from an audio source to INPUT 1 or INPUT 2.

3. Switch POWER to ON.

4. Adjust the MASTER VOL knob to the desired volume.

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3.1

Figure 3.1: EKX-12P dimensions

System overview

Dimensions

Figure 3.2: EKX-15P dimensions

Figure 3.3: EKX-15SP dimensions

Figure 3.4: EKX-18SP dimensions

Electro-Voice User Manual 2015.02 | 03 | F.01U.308.095

EKX Powered Loudspeakers

4.1

Tripod and floor monitor operation

Tripod or pole mount

EKX-12P and EKX-15P loudspeakers mount on a tripod stand or on a pole above a subwoofer.

Mounting a loudspeaker on a tripod stand

Figure 4.1: Full-Range models on a tripod stand

Caution!

Tripod is not evaluated for safety with this loudspeaker. Check the specifications of the tripod

stand to be certain it is capable of supporting the weight of the loudspeaker.

Caution!

Two (2) person lift and placement is recommended for the heavier loudspeakers. Single

person lift and placement of heavier loudspeakers could cause injury.

To mount a loudspeaker on a tripod stand, do the following:

1. Place the tripod stand on a level stable surface.

▪ Fully extend the legs on the tripod stand. ▪ Do not compromise the tripod stands structural integrity by trying to make the stand

taller.

▪ Do not attempt to suspend more than one (1) loudspeaker on a stand designed for a

single loudspeaker.

2. Using two (2) hands lift the loudspeaker.

3. Set the pole cup located on the bottom of the loudspeaker onto the pole.

2015.02 | 03 | F.01U.308.095 User Manual Electro-Voice

Mounting a loudspeaker on a pole

Figure 4.2: Full-Range/subwoofer stack with pole mount

Caution!

Two (2) person lift and placement is recommended for the heavier loudspeakers. Single

person lift and placement of heavier loudspeakers could cause injury.

To mount a loudspeaker on a pole, do the following:

1. Place the subwoofer on a level stable surface.

2. Insert the M20 threaded pole into the combo pole cup on the top of the subwoofer.

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3. Turn the M20 threaded pole clockwise to secure the pole to the subwoofer.

4. Using two (2) hands lift the loudspeaker.

5. Set the pole cup located on the bottom of the loudspeaker onto the pole.

Electro-Voice User Manual 2015.02 | 03 | F.01U.308.095

EKX Powered Loudspeakers

4.2

Floor monitor

EKX-12P and EKX-15P loudspeakers may be used as a floor monitor by placing the loudspeaker on the integral monitor angle. To set up a loudspeaker as a floor monitor, do the following:

1. Place the loudspeaker on a level stable surface.

2. Safely route cables to prevent injury to performers, production crew, and audience members.

Notice!

Secure cables with wire ties or tape whenever possible.

Figure 4.3: Optimum coverage in monitor position

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Suspension

The EKX-12P and EKX-15P enclosures have eight (8) M10 threaded points; six (6) points on top of the enclosure and two (2) points on the bottom. Forged shoulder eyebolts rated for overhead suspension may be used to suspend an individual loudspeaker, such as the EBK-M10 accessory.