JBL VTX A8 User Manual

VTX A8 | User Manual

GENERAL INFORMATION

VTX A8 - User Manual

Document Number: 1000337283

Version: C - EN

Distribution Date: December 23, 2020

JBL PROFESSIONAL

8500 Balboa Blvd

Northridge, CA 91329

USA

VTX A8 | User Manual

Thank you for purchasing JBL V TX Series products

In more than 75 years of JBL innovations, the VTX Series stands apart as a milestone in the practical application of cre-

ative engineering. VTX products herald the next generation in line array loudspeaker systems: a new era in performance,

system integration and user friendliness. VTX products draw on multiple JBL patents in driver, waveguide, and suspension

technology, as well as custom ampliﬁcation, DSP, control, and system management designs created in collaboration with

HARMAN Professional sister companies.

VTX loudspeakers marry custom transducer design and in-house manufacture, breakthrough technologies, and a com-

prehensive system approach to deliver a premium experience for all who come into contact with it, from the FOH mixing

engineer to the systems engineer, rigger, road crew, warehouse manager, and, of course, the audience. Designed for

operators of portable and ﬁxed systems alike, the VTX Series features JBL’s legendary sound quality coupled with expert

support and advanced tools that enable optimal speciﬁcation, conﬁguration, and operation of VTX systems in any venue,

anywhere in the world. The VTX Series delivers a comprehensive solution: the ﬁnest sound quality available, plus efﬁcient

and intuitive setup, tuning, networking, and control.

VTX A8 | User Manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 - DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY ...........................................................................6

2 - SAFETY .................................................................................................7

2.1 Safety Instructions ....................................................................................7

2.2 General Hardware Information ..........................................................................7

2.3 Attachment to Structures ...............................................................................7

2.4 Important Safety Warning ..............................................................................8

2.5 Are You New to Rigging? ..............................................................................8

2.6 Inspection and Maintenance ............................................................................8

2.7 Symbols ............................................................................................9

3 - SYSTEM COMPONENTS .................................................................................10

4 - COMPATIBLE ACCESSORIES ..............................................................................11

4.1 VTX A8 AF - Array Frame ..............................................................................11

4.2 VTX A8 AF EB - Array Frame Extension Bar ...............................................................11

4.3 VTX A8 MF - Mini Frame ..............................................................................11

4.4 VTX A8 SB - Suspension Bar ...........................................................................12

4.5 VTX A8 VT - Vertical Transporter ........................................................................12

4.6 VTX A8 VT CVR - Soft Cover ...........................................................................12

4.7 VTX A8 BP - Base Plate ...............................................................................12

4.8 VTX RC500 - Rotating Clamp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

4.9 VTX Delta - Delta Plate ................................................................................13

5 - SOFTWARE .............................................................................................14

5.1 Line Array Calculator 3 TM .............................................................................14

5.2 Array Link TM .......................................................................................14

5.3 Performance Manager TM ..............................................................................14

6 - INTRODUCTION .........................................................................................15

6.1 VTX A8 ............................................................................................15

6.2 VTX B18 ...........................................................................................16

7 - CONNECTIONS .........................................................................................17

7.1 A8 Internal Wiring ....................................................................................18

7.2 B18 Internal Wiring ...................................................................................18

8 - SYSTEM AMPLIFICATION & WIRING ........................................................................19

8.1 Using A8 With Crown I-Tech 4X3500HD ..................................................................19

8.2 Using A8 With Crown I-Tech HD (2-CH) ...................................................................20

8.3 Using A8 and B18 With I-Tech 4X3500HD .................................................................21

VTX A8 | User Manual

8.4 Using A8 and B28 With I-Tech 4X3500HD .................................................................22

8.5 Crown V-Rack ......................................................................................22

9 - VTX A8 PRESET LIBRARY .................................................................................23

9.1 VTX A8 Preset Modes and Options ......................................................................23

9.2 VTX B18/B28 Preset Modes and Options .................................................................23

10 - SUBWOOFER OPTIONS .................................................................................24

10.1 SUB / LF Preset Options ..............................................................................24

10.2 Time Alignment .....................................................................................25

11 - CONFIGURATION EXAMPLES ............................................................................26

11.1 Small A8 System ...................................................................................26

11.2 Medium A8 System .................................................................................26

11.3 Large A8 System ...................................................................................27

11.4 Large A8 and A12 System ............................................................................27

12 - FREQUENCY RESPONSE ................................................................................28

13 - LINE ARRAY CONTROL PANEL ...........................................................................29

13.1 Accessing LACP ....................................................................................29

13.2 Filter 1 - Array Size Compensation .....................................................................30

13.3 Filter 2 - Atmospheric Absorption Compensation ..........................................................30

13.4 Filter 3 - HF Throw Distance Compensation ..............................................................30

13.5 Filters 4 & 5 - User PEQ 1 & 2 .........................................................................30

13.6 Example using LACP ................................................................................31

14 - TESTING THE VTX A8 ...................................................................................32

14.1 Using a DMM (Digital Multi Meter) ......................................................................32

14.2 Testing Individual components ........................................................................33

14.3 Using Performance Manager ..........................................................................34

13.4 Performance Manager Readings .......................................................................34

15 - SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................................35

16 - ACOUSTIC MEASUREMENTS ............................................................................36

17 - DIMENSIONS ..........................................................................................36

18 - CONTACT INFORMATION ................................................................................37

1 - DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

BRAND: JBL Professional

FAMILY NAME: VTX A8 loudspeaker and suspension accessories

MODEL NAMES:

VTX A8 | User Manual

• VTX A8

• VTX A8 AF

• VTX A8 AF EB

• VTX A8 MF

• VTX A8 SB

• VTX A8 BP

We, HARMAN International, declare under our sole responsibility that the product, to which this declaration relates, is in conformity

with the following standards:

STANDARD DESCRIPTION TEST AGENCY

2006/42/EC

MACHINERY DIRECTIVE

• VTX RC500

• VTX A8 VT

Applies to machinery and lays down essential

health and safety requirements

ISO12100

Tested at JBL Professional

2014/35/EC

LOW VOLTAGE DIRECTIVE

Applies to loudspeaker and lays down essential

health and safety requirements.

EN60065

Frank Lacelle

Compliance Manager - Harman International

Tested at JBL Professional

VTX A8 | User Manual

2 - SAFETY

2.1 SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1. Read these instructions.

2. Keep these instructions.

3. Heed all warnings.

4. Follow all instructions.

5. Do not expose the product to direct rain or sea spray.

6. Clean only with a dry cloth.

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

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

9. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table speciﬁed by the manufacturer or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used,

use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.

10. Refer all servicing to qualiﬁed service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as if

liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, or if the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not

operate normally, or has been dropped.

11. Contact JBL Professional for advanced servicing issues.

12. CAUTION - DO NOT PERFORM ANY SERVICING UNLESS YOU ARE QUALIFIED TO DO SO.

13. Prolonged exposure to excessive SPL can cause hearing damage. The loudspeaker is easily capable of generating sound pressure

levels (SPL) sufﬁcient to cause permanent hearing damage to performers, production crew, and audience members. Caution should

be taken to avoid prolonged exposure to SPL in excess of 90 dB.

14. Read the System Rigging Manual before installation and use of the product.

2.2 GENERAL HARDWARE INFORMATION

Any hardware used in an overhead suspension application must be load rated for the intended use. Generally, this type of hardware

is available from rigging supply houses, industrial supply catalogs, and specialized rigging distributors. Local hardware stores do not

usually stock these products. Compliant hardware will be referenced with a working load limit (WLL) and a traceability code.

2.3 ATTACHMENT TO STRUCTURES

A licensed Professional Engineer must approve the placement and method of attachment to the structure prior to the installation of any

overhead object. The following performance standards should be provided to the Professional Engineer for design purposes: Uniform

Building Code as applicable, Municipal Building Code as applicable, and Seismic Code as applicable. The installation of the hardware

and method of attachment must be carried out in the manner speciﬁed by the Professional Engineer. Improper installation may result in

damage, injury, or death.

VTX A8 | User Manual

2.4 IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNING

The information in this section has been assembled from recognized engineering data and is intended for informational purposes only.

None of the information in this section should be used without ﬁrst obtaining competent advice with respect to applicability to a given

circumstance. None of the information presented herein is intended as a representation or warranty on the part of JBL. Anyone making

use of this information assumes all liability arising from such use.

All information presented herein is based upon materials and practices common to North America and may not directly apply to other

countries because of differing material dimensions, speciﬁcations, and/or local regulations. Users in other countries should consult with

appropriate engineering and regulatory authorities for speciﬁc guidelines.

Correct use of all included hardware is required for secure system suspension. Careful calculations should always be performed to

ensure that all components are used within their working load limits before the array is suspended. Never exceed the maximum recom-

mended load ratings.

Before suspending any speaker system, always inspect all components (enclosure, rigging frames, pins, eyebolts, track ﬁttings, etc.) for

cracks, deformations, corrosion, or missing/loose/damaged parts that could reduce strength and safety of the array. Do not suspend

the speaker until the proper corrective action has been taken. Use only load-rated hardware when suspending JBL suspendable loud-

speaker models.

2.5 ARE YOU NEW TO RIGGING?

If you are new to rigging, you should:

• Know the rules for safe rigging.

• Attend a safe rigging seminar.

• Meet and establish a relationship with a licensed mechanical or structural engineer. Get in the habit of asking them questions in-

stead of assuming their answers. Learn from what they tell you.

• Research and understand the codes, practices and requirements of the venues where you intend to operate your sound system.

2.6 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE

Suspension systems are comprised of mechanical devices and, as such, require regular inspection and routine maintenance to ensure

proper functionality. Before suspending or pole mounting any speaker system, always inspect all components (enclosure, suspension

frames or brackets, pins, eyebolts, etc.) for cracks, deformations, corrosion, or missing/loose/damaged parts that could reduce strength

and safety of the array. Do not suspend or pole mount a speaker until the proper corrective action has been taken.

Installed systems should be inspected at least once a year. The inspection must include a visual survey of all corners and load-bearing

surfaces for signs of cracking, water damage, delamination, or any other condition that may decrease the strength of the loudspeaker

enclosure.

Accessory suspension hardware provided with or for VTX systems must be inspected for fatigue at least once a year or as required by

local ordinance. The inspection must include a visual survey of the material for signs of corrosion, bending, or any other condition that

may decrease the strength of the fastener. Additionally, any eyebolts must be checked for possible spin-out of the enclosure.

For all other hardware and ﬁttings, refer to the hardware manufacturer’s inspection and maintenance guidelines for process.

VTX A8 | User Manual

JBL is not responsible for the application of its products for any purpose or the misuse of this information for any purpose. Furthermore,

JBL is not responsible for the abuse of its products caused by avoiding compliance with inspection and maintenance procedures or

any other abuse.

Prior to suspending the system, an expert, trained and experienced in suspending speaker systems, should inspect all parts and com-

ponents.

2.7 SYMBOLS

The following symbols are used in this document:

CAUTION: This symbol gives notice of a potential risk of harm to the individual or the equipment. Instruction

marked with this symbol must be strictly followed.

TIP: This symbol gives notice of helpful, relevant information about the topic.

INSTRUCTIONS: This symbol gives notice of instructions that must be followed for proper installation and use of

the product.

TOOLS REQUIRED: This symbol gives notice of tools that must be used for proper installation and use of the

product.

3 - SYSTEM COMPONENTS

VTX A8 VTX B18

VTX A8 | User Manual

VTX B28

Fault

Thermal

234

Clip

-10

-20

Signal

Ready

Fault

Thermal

Clip

-10

-20

Signal

Menu/Exit Prev Next

Ready

Menu/Exit

Fault

Thermal

Clip

-10

-20

Signal

Ready

DRIVECORE SERIES

Power

Bridge 1/2

Bridge 3/4

Data

Power

Bridge 1/2

Bridge 3/4

Data

Crown I-Tech HD Ampliﬁers Crown Audio V-Rack

VTX A8 | User Manual

4 - COMPATIBLE ACCESSORIES

All listed accessories are compatible with the VTX A8 and, in some cases, the VTX B18. For subwoofer speciﬁc accessories refer to the

B18 User Manual and Rigging Manual found at www.jblpro.com.

4.1 VTX A8 AF - ARRAY FRAME

• Compatible with VTX A8 and VTX B18

• Maximum Limit: (24) VTX A8 / (13) VTX B18

• 0.5 degree pick-point resolution

• Built-in storage position for extension bar

• Includes (1) VTX A8 AF EB extension bar

• Support for third-party laser inclinometers

• Compatible shackle size: 5/8 in

4.2 VTX A8 AF EB - ARRAY FRAME EXTENSION BAR

• Extension Bar for use with VTX A8 AF

• Single, front-to-back or side-by-side pick point options

• Includes (3) shackles and mounting brackets

• Compatible shackle size: 5/8 in

4.3 VTX A8 MF - MINI FRAME

• Compatible with VTX A8 and VTX B18

• Maximum Limit: (10) VTX A8 / (4) VTX B18

• Single-point and side-by-side pick-point options

• Three-part collapsible design

• Compatible shackle size: 1/2 in

4.4 VTX A8 SB - SUSPENSION BAR

• Compatible with VTX A8 and VTX B18

• Maximum Limit: (24) VTX A8 / (16) VTX B18

• Used for pull-back applications

• Shackle Size: 5/8 in

4.5 VTX A8 VT - VERTICAL TRANSPORTER

• Vertical transport cart for (4) VTX A8 enclosures

• Truck-friendly dimensions

VTX A8 | User Manual

4.6 VTX A8 VT CVR - SOFT COVER

• Includes a hard top (VT-TOP)

• Built-in stacking features for easy storage

• Heavy-duty casters

• Heavy-duty soft cover for VTX A8 enclosures

• Covers four VTX A8 enclosures on a VTX A8 VT

• Includes input panel ﬂaps for testing purposes

• Clear see-through pocket for shipping labels

• Handle cutouts for easy transportation

• Folds and stores in the VTX A8 VT

4.7 VTX A8 BP - BASE PLATE

• Used for ground stacking VTX A8

• Maximum Limit: (8) VTX A8 cabinets

• Connects VTX A8 cabinets to subwoofers

• Universal M20 attachment method

• Tilt range: -15 degrees to +5 degrees

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