Electro-Voice ZX5 User Manual

Zx5 Series

Loudspeaker

Owner’s Manual

Zx5-60
Zx5-90

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual

Important Safety Instructions

1. Read these instructions.

2. Keep these instructions.

The lightning 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 of sufficient
magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

3. Heed all warnings.

4. Follow all instructions.

5. Do not use this apparatus near water.

6. Clean only with a dry cloth.

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.

Zx5 Series Owner’s Manual

Thank you for choosing the Electro-Voice® Zx5 series loudspeaker system. This system is the

culmination of EV’s 75 years of experience in transducer design. Please take time to consult this

manual so that you can understand all the features built into your EV system and fully utilize all its

performance capabilities.

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual1

Table of Contents

Important Safety Instructions ....................................................................................................... 1

Zx5 Series Owner’s Manual ......................................................................................................... 1

Safety First ................................................................................................................................... 3

Description ................................................................................................................................... 4

System Features - Zx5 ................................................................................................................. 4

System Coverage - Zx5 ................................................................................................................ 4

Suspending Zx5 Speaker Systems .............................................................................................. 5

Zx5 Stage Monitor Positions........................................................................................................11

Specifications ............................................................................................................................. 12

Dimensions ................................................................................................................................ 13

Block Diagram ............................................................................................................................ 13

Frequency Response, Beamwidth, and Directivity ..................................................................... 14

Zx5 Rigging Accessory Reference Table.................................................................................... 15

Painting Zx5 Speaker Systems .................................................................................................. 16

Notes .......................................................................................................................................... 17

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual 2

Safety First

When setting up, installing and using the Electro-Voice® Zx5 speaker system, there are a number
of precautions that you should follow:

· When Electro-Voice

positioned directly on the floor, make sure that the floor or stage is solid and secure.

· Electro-Voice

®

Make sure to:

· Check the specifications of the speaker stand to be certain it is capable of supporting the weight

of the speaker.

· Check that the speaker stand is placed on a flat, stable surface and be sure to fully extend the

legs of the stand. Do not try to make the stand “taller” and compromise its structural integrity.

· Route cables and position the stand so that performers, production crew and audience members

will not trip over the stand or cables and pull the speaker system over. Secure cables with wire
ties or tape whenever possible.

· Do not attempt to suspend more than one speaker on a stand designed for a single speaker

· Unless you are confident that you can safely handle lifting the weight of the speaker onto the

stand, ask another person to help you place it.

· If you intend to hang or fly the Zx5 system, only do so safely with the correct hardware and

accessories.

®

Zx5 speakers are used for portable applications in which they will be

Zx5 speakers include 1-3/8 inch stand mounts to allow mounting on tripod stands.

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 rigging objects overhead. Electro-Voice® strongly recommends that Zx5
speakers be suspended taking into account all current national, federal, state and
local regulations. It is the responsibility of the installer to ensure that Zx5 speakers are
safely installed in accordance with all such regulations. If Zx5 speakers are
suspended, Electro-Voice® strongly recommends that the system be inspected at least
once a year. If any sign of weakness or damage is detected, remedial action should
be taken immediately.

There are data sheets for each EV Suspension and Array Kit

that should also be consulted prior to suspending speakers.

· Electro-Voice

®

does not recommend use of Zx5 speakers outdoors without protection

from rain or in high moisture environments.

· Electro-Voice

®

Zx5 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.

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual3

Description

The Electro-Voice® Zx5 is a unique, lightweight package of pro audio performance, versatility and
aesthetics. You won’t find a speaker system available on the market that offers the unbelievable
sound, incredible flexibility and tremendous output capability of the Zx5 anywhere near it’s size
and weight.

System Features - Zx5

· Full-face grille for a clean, professional look.

· DVX3150 15” woofer with 500 watts continuous power handling.

· ND2 2” voice coil, 1” exit neodymium compression driver.

· Two models: 60° x 60° or 90° x 50° coverage patterns.

· Adjustable monitor angle built into enclosure.

· Integral rigging points and inserts for multiple flying options.

· Full line of accessories for any installation.

· Passive and biamp selectable.

System Coverage - Zx5

Coverage Patterns and Applications

Zx5-60 60° x 60° coverage for long-throw and cluster applications
Zx5-90 90° x 50° for wider coverage or shorter distances

Figure 1a:

3D EASE Directivity Balloon,

Zx5-60, 60° x 60° Coverage

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual 4

3D EASE Directivity Balloon,

Zx5-90, 90° x 50° Coverage

Figure 1b:

Suspending Zx5 Speaker Systems

Zx5 enclosures have 5 steel anchor points internally mounted on the top, bottom, and rear. Single
stud fittings can be attached to these anchor plates and used as suspension points. Each of
these anchor plates also has a M8 thread to accept rated forged M8 shoulder eyebolts. In
addition to these points there are five additional M8 threaded points; two on the handle side, and
three on the rear. These points can be used for suspending Zx5s vertically, horizontally,
individually, in clusters, or to attach to EV mounting brackets. Working load limits for the Zx5 and
fittings are shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2:

Working Load-Limit Rating of Zx5 Speaker System

Prior to each use, inspect the grid assembly or suspension point(s) and associated hardware for
any cracks, deformations, broken welds, corrosion, missing or damaged components which could
reduce the grid assembly or suspension point(s) strength. Replace any damaged hardware. Never
exceed the limitations or maximum recommended load intended for grid assembly design or
suspension point(s). As an added safety measure, it is suggested that the user install a second
suspension point back to the grid (or building structural supports). This redundant safety point
should have as little slack as possible (less than one inch is preferable).

Prior to each use, inspect the loudspeaker enclosures for any cracks, deformations, missing or
damaged components, which could reduce enclosure strength. Inspect the bracket assembly on
the enclosures for any cracks, deformations, missing or loose screws which could reduce the
flying hardware strength. Replace any loudspeaker systems that are damaged or missing
hardware. Never exceed the limitations or maximum recommended load for the Zx5 systems.

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual5

Suspending Zx5 Speaker Systems (cont’)

Zx5 M8 Suspension Points

Metric (M8) inserts are equipped on the top and bottom of the enclosure, around the handle, and
on the back of the enclosure for a total of 10 points. The inserts can be used to attach forged
eyebolts or rigging brackets.

(2) M8 Suspension Points

(Single-Stud Anchor Plate

Removal Required)

(2) M8 Suspension Points

(Decal Removal Required)

(2) M8 Suspension Points

(Decal Removal Required)

(2) M8 Suspension Points
(Removal of Handle Bolts

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual 6

Required)

(Single-Stud Anchor Plate/

Figure 3a:

Zx5 M8 Suspension Points (Top, Handle, Rear)

(2) M8 Suspension Points

Decal Removal Required)

Figure 3b:

Zx5 M8 Suspension Points (Bottom)

Suspending Zx5 Speaker Systems (cont’)

Suspending the Zx5 using optional Electro-Voice Single-Stud Rigging Kits

The Zx5 is shipped with three single-stud anchor plates for rigging with single-stud rigging. There
are two more locations on the bottom to mount single-stud anchor plates for flying the Zx5 upside­down or horizontally. All of these locations can
facilitate M8 Eyebolts if desired as well.

Figure 4:

Suspending the Zx5 Using Included Single-Stud

Anchor Plates

Kit Used (Left View) -

SSK-1 Single-Stud Rigging Kit (x1)

Kits Used (Right View) -

SSK-1 Single-Stud Rigging Kit (x2)
EBK-3 Forged M8 Eyebolt Kit (x1)*

*EBK-3 on Bottom of Top

(not shown, see Figure 3b)

Enclosure

Step 1: Remove Decals

Step 2: Attach Single-Stud Anchor Plates
Removed from the Top of the Enclosure or
optional RK-Z Kit (shown) or Eyebolts (not

shown)

Figure 5:

Suspending the Zx5 Upside-Down Using

Included Single-Stud Anchor Plates and Single-

Stud Rigging Kit

Kits Used -

RK-Z Single-Stud Anchor Plate Kit (x1)
SSK-1 Single-Stud Rigging Kit (x1)

7

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual

Suspending Zx5 Speaker Systems (cont’)

Horizontal Suspension of the Zx5

The Zx5 is capable of being suspended horizontally from the side (handle) or downward from the
rear with the use of M8 Eyebolts.

Figure 6:

Suspending the Zx5 Downward from Rear Using

Optional Forged Eyebolt Kit*

Kit Used - EBK-3 Forged M8 Eyebolt Kit (x1)

*Note - When suspending from the rear M8 suspension

points, it is recommended that the (2) left M8 suspension

points are used on the rear of the enclosure for best weight

distribution in relation to enclosure’s center of gravity.

Step 1: Remove Handle Bolts Step 2: Attach Eyebolts

Figure 8:

Suspending the Zx5 Horizontally from Handle Using

Optional Forged Eyebolt Kit

Kit Used - EBK-3 Forged M8 Eyebolt Kit (x1)

Figure 7:

Assembling Eyebolts to Handle

for Horizontal Suspension

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual

8

Suspending Zx5 Speaker Systems (cont’)

HA-5 Handle Mount VSA-1 Strong-Arm

Step 1: Remove Handle Bolts

and Handle

Step 2: Attach HA-5 and Handle Bolts

Step 3: Attach VSA-1 Strong-Arm Mount

Figure 9:

Assembling HA-5 Adapter for use with VSA-1 Strong-Arm Mount

Kits Used -

HA-5 Handle Adapter Kit (x1)

VSA-1 Strong-Arm Mount (x1)

Arraying and Suspending the Zx5 using optional Electro-Voice Mounting or Array Brackets

Figures 10 and 11 show several applications using EV mounting and array brackets. Carefully
follow the instructions in this manual & the user manual packaged with EV brackets, and always
use safe rigging practices when suspending Zx5.

Spigot to Attach to Beam or

Truss Clamp

Figure 10:

Suspending the Zx5 Vertically from Handle Using Optional

Handle Adapter and Strong-Arm Mount

Kits Used -

HA-5 Handle Adapter Kit (x1)

VSA-1 Strong-Arm Mount (x1)

*Note - Please consult VSA-1 User Man ual f or ad ditional

information.

9

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual

Suspending Zx5 Speaker Systems (cont’)

Kit Used - MB5 Wall/Ceiling Mounting Bracket

(Wall Configuration)

Kits Used - CB5 Array Bracket Kit (x1)*

SSK-1 Single-Stud Rigging Kit (x1)

NOTE: Do not

exceed working

load limit for

individual rigging

points when

arraying the Zx5.

(See Figure 2,

Kit Used - MB5 Wall/Ceiling Mounting Bracket

(Ceiling Configuration)

Kit Used - CB5 Array Bracket Kit (x2)*

Page 5)

Kits Used - CB5 Array Bracket Kit (x2)*

SSK-1 Single-Stud Rigging Kit (x2)

EBK-3 Forged M8 Eyebolt Kit (x1)

*Note - CB5 Array Kits can be used for 60° or 90° Splay Angles

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual

Kits Used - CB5 Array Bracket Kit (x4)*

EBK-3 Forged M8 Eyebolt Kit (x1)

Figure 11:

Arraying and Suspending the Zx5

10

Zx5 Stage Monitor Positions

Zx5 as a Monitor

By design the Zx5 is a perfect solution for stage monitors. As different stage sizes require
different monitor angles, the Zx5 offers two angles without any additional accessories.

Step 1: Remove Monitor Foot

Screws

Switching the Monitor Feet from the 45° to 55° Positions

Step 2: Rotate Monitor Feet 180° Step 3: Re-attach Monitor Feet

and Screws

Figure 12:

Figure 13a:

Zx5 as Monitor in 45° Position

Zx5 as Monitor in 55° Position

Figure 13b:

CAUTION: When flipped to 55° the feet protrude from the enclosure. Care should be
taken when moving the enclosure, since damage to the feet or enclosure might occur if
the system is dropped or slid across a rough surface. It is recommended that the feet
be returned to the 45° position for transport.

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual11

Specifications

1

Half Space measurement.

1

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:gnildnaHrewoPFLkaePW0002,suounitnoCW005

:gnildnaHrewoPFHkaePW061,suounitnoCW04

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ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual 12

Dimensions

T op View

Block Diagram

Biamp:

Front View

Bottom View

Right View Rear ViewLeft View

Passive:

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual13

Frequency Response, Beamwidth, and Directivity

Zx5-60, 60° x 60° Co vera ge

Frequency Response & Impedance:

110

100

90

Sensitivity (dB)

80

70

20 50 100 1000 10000 20000

Frequency (Hz)

Passive Mode, Half Space

Biamp Mode , Half Space

Impedance

Beamwidth:

Zx5-90, 90° x 50° Co vera ge

Frequency Response & Impedance:

316

100

Impedance (Ohms)

10

3.16

110

100

90

Sensitivity (dB)

80

70

20 50 100 1000 10000 20000

Frequency (Hz)

Passive Mode, Half Space

Biamp Mode , Half Space

Impedance

316

100

Impedance (Ohms)

10

3.16

Beamwidth:

Directivity:

Directivity:

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual 14

Zx5 Rigging Accessory Reference Table

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B-5BChsiniFkcalB,tiKtekcarByarrA100-526103

W-5BChsiniFetihW,tiKtekcarByarrA200-526103

B-5BMhsiniFkcalB,tiKtekcarBgnitnuoMgnilieC/llaW100-626103

W-5BMhsiniFetihW,tiKtekcarBgnitnuoMgnilieC/llaW200-626103

1-KSS)3foteS(tiKgniggiRdutS-elgniS000-336103

3-KBE)3foteS(tiKtlobeyE8MdegroF000-436103

Z-KR)3foteS(tiKetalProhcnAdutS-elgniS000-218103

XZ-KMT

5-CDHkcalB,revoCelbakcatSytuD-yvaeH100-318103

)kcalB(5-AH

dna,1-ACT,1-ASVsedulcnI,tiKtnuoMssurT

100-700000TIK

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual15

Painting Zx5 Speaker Systems

Painting a Zx5 Enclosure

The Zx5 Loudspeaker Enclosures are made of a high performance Polypropylene material. For
best paint adhesion, we recommend a “Plastic Adhesion Promoter” be applied before any paint.
Sherwin Williams Plastic Adhesion Promoter UP07226 is a good example (See Telex document
number LIT000066-000 for further details.) Once Plastic Adhesion Promoter is applied follow the
manufacturer’s painting directions as you would normally.

Painting a Zx5 Grille

Remove grille from loudspeaker and remove the backing material & logo from grille prior to
painting. Once the paint is dry, reapply the backing material and logo to the grille. Spray adhesive
such as 3M Super 77 may help adhere the backing material to the grille.

Additional Precautions to be Taken

Prior to painting, be sure to take precautions not to get paint into the transducers. This can be
done by masking the grille, temporarily removing the grille and masking the transducers, or by
temporarily removing the grille and temporarily removing the transducers. Precautions must also
be taken not to get paint into any exposed electrical components by masking them off prior to
painting. It is also recommended that any exposed rigging points, warning labels, or instruction
labels be masked off for ease of future operation.

WARNING: It is critical to the system’s operation

that all transducers and exposed electrical

components be masked off prior to painting.

Rigging Points Masked

Grille Masked

Zx5 Enclosure

Painting View:

Painting the Zx5 Enclosure

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual 16

Notes

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual17

Notes

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual 18

U.S.A. and Canada:

For customer orders, contact the Customer Service department at:
800/392-3497 Fax: [phone]
For warranty repair or service information, contact the Service Repair Department at:
800/685-2606
For technical assistance, contact Technical Support at:
866/78 AUDIO
Specifications subject to change without notice.

All Locations:

952-884-4051 Fax: [phone]

www.electrovoice.com 

Printed in U.S.A

© Telex Communications, Inc. 2/2007

Part Number 38110-355 Rev F

Telex Communications, Inc. 

www.telex.com

ELECTRO-VOICE® Zx5 Owner’s Manual