Martin Audio DD12 User Manual

MARTIN AUDIO DD12

DD12 USER GUIDE

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DD12 USER GUIDE

SAFETY INFORMATION

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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 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. 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.

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

10. Only use attachments and accessories specified by the manufacturer.

11. Use only with the 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

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

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

14. The means of disconnection from the mains is the appliance coupler or mains plug.
One of these devices must remain accessible when the apparatus is in use.

CAUTION

AVIS

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE
NE PAS OUVRIR

!

CAUTION

To reduce the risk of electric shock do not remove any covers. There are no user serviceable
parts inside the unit. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel only. Call Martin Audio Ltd on
[phone] or e-mail [e-mail] for service.

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APPROVALS

Safety: IEC60065:2002 + A2:2010

Environmental: IP24 when in portrait mode (i.e., upright), fitted with cowl assembly

(Martin Audio Pt No ASF15019), weatherproof grille (Martin Audio
Pt No HAG01145) and used with mains connectors/cords rated to at
least IP24

IP2X when NOT fitted with cowl assembly or not used with mains

connector/cords rated to at least IP24

Country of origin: United Kingdom

EMC Emission: EN55103-1:2009
EMC Immunity: EN55103-2:2009

FCC: CFR47 Part 15B-2010

This is a class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference,
in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.

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SAFETY RULES

• This DD12 must be powered exclusively by an earth-connected mains socket in electrical
networks compliant to the IEC 364 or similar local rules. It is absolutely vital that the user
verifies this fundamental safety requirement. If you are in any doubt, get the installation
checked by qualified personnel before use.

• The means of disconnection from the mains is the Neutrik® PowerCON TRUE1. We strongly
recommend that you power the DD12 by a professionally installed mains supply with an
easily accessible on/off switch or circuit breaker. A comprehensive mains distribution
system with circuit breakers is available from Martin Audio.

• Before powering the DD12 via the Neutrik® PowerCON TRUE1 connector, make sure that
the unit is supplied with the correct mains operating voltage:

• 100 – 240 V, 50 – 60 Hz

• The DD12 power section is protected by two fuses:

• F1: (T3,15A L 250V) in the power amplifier

• F2: (F 4A L 250V) in the auxiliary (DSP) power supply

• Do not use this unit if the electrical power cord is frayed or broken.

• Do not remove the cover. Removing the cover will expose you to potentially dangerous

voltages.

• When not fitted with the weatherproof cowl (Martin Audio Pt No ASF15019), weatherproof
grille (Martin Audio Pt No HAG01145), or not used with mains connector/cords rated to at
least IP24, the DD12 must not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects filled
with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.

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CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ

CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES

1. Lire ces consignes.

2. Conserver ces instructions.

3. Observer tous les avertissements.

4. Suivre toutes les consignes.

5. Ne pas utiliser cet appareil à proximité de l’eau.

6. Nettoyer uniquement avec un chiffon sec.

7. Ne pas installer à proximité d’une source de chaleur telle qu’une flamme nue,
un radiateur, une bouche de chaleur, un poêle ou d’autres appareils (dont les
amplificateurs) produisant de la chaleur.

8. Ne pas détériorer la sécurité de la fiche polarisée ou de la fiche de terre. Une fiche
polarisée comporte deux lames dont l’une est plus large que l’autre. Une fiche de terre
comporte deux lame et une troisième broche de mise à la terre. La lame la plus large
ou la troisième broche assure la sécurité de l’utilisateur. La fiche fournie ne s’adapte
pas à la prise électrique, demander à un électricien de remplacer la prise hors normes.

9. Protéger le cordon d’alimentation afin que personne ne marche dessus et que rien
ne le pince, en particulier au niveau des fiches des prises de courant et du point de
sortie de l’appareil.

10. Utiliser uniquement les accessoires spécifiés par le fabricant.

11. Utiliser uniquement avec un chariot, un trépied, un support ou une table spécifiée par
le fabricant ou vendu avec l›appareil. Si un chariot est utilisé, déplacer l›ensemble
chariot-appareil avec précaution afin de ne pas le renverser, ce qui pourrait entraîner
des blessures.

12. Débrancher l’appareil pendant les orages ou quand il ne sera pas utilisé pendant
longtemps.

13. Confier toute réparation à du personnel qualifié. Des réparations sont nécessaires
si l’appareil est endommagé d’une façon quelconque, par exemple : cordon ou
prise d’alimentation endommagé, liquide renversé ou objet tombé à l’intérieur de
l’appareil, exposition de l’appareil à la pluie ou à l’humidité, appareil qui ne marche
pas normalement ou que l’on a fait tomber.

14. La prise secteur ou un coupleur d’appareil électrique doit rester facilement utilisable.

CAUTION

AVIS

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE
NE PAS OUVRIR

!

ATTENTION

Pour réduire les risques d’incendie ou de choc électrique, ne pas ouvrir le capot arrière.
L’utilisateur ne doit pas se servir des pièces à l’intérieur de l’appareil. Confier toute réparation
à du personnel qualifié. Si nécessaire, appelez Martin Audio, Ltd au [phone] ou
par e-mail [e-mail].

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APROBATION

Sécurité: IEC60065:2002 + A2:2010

Environement: IP24 lorsque l’enceinte est vertical, assemblée avec le capot (Martin

Audio Pt No ASF15019), grille de protection waterproof (Martin Audio
Pt No HAG01145) et utilisée avec des connecteurs au minimum de
classe IP24

IP2X lorsque l’enceinte n’est pas assemblée avec le capot ou que les

connecteurs utilisés ne sont pas au minimum de classe IP24

Pays d’origine: Royaume Uni

EMC Emission: EN55103-1:2009
EMC Immunity: EN55103-2:2009

FCC: CFR47 Part 15B-2010

C’est un produit de classe A. Lors d’une utilisation dans un environnement domestique, il se
peut que l’appareil produise des interférences radioélectriques, auquel cas, l’utilisateur devra
prendre les mesures nécessaires à la bonne utilisation de l’appareil.

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RÈGLES DE SÉCURITÉ

• La DD12 doit être alimentée exclusivement via une prise connectée à la terre dans un
réseau électrique conforme aux normes locales ou de type IEC364. Il est absolument vital
que l’utilisateur s’assure de cette exigence de sécurité. Si vous avez le moindre doute,
faites vérifier l’installation par une personne qualifiée.

• La déconnection au réseau électrique s’effectue à l’aide des Neutrik® PowerCON TRUE1.
Nous recommandons fortement que l’alimentation de la DD12 soit assurée par un
branchement professionnel comportant un interrupteur ON/OFF facilement accessible ou
un court circuit. Un système de distribution de courant avec disjoncteurs est disponible
chez Martin Audio.

• Avant de mettre sous tension la DD12 avec un connecteur Neutrik® PowerCON TRUE1,
assurez-vous que l’enceinte est configurée au bon voltage :

• 100 – 240 V, 50 – 60 Hz

• La section d’alimentation de la DD12 est protégée par 2 fusibles :

• F1: (T3,15A L 250V) dans l’amplificateur de puissance

• F2: (F 4A L 250V) dans la source de courant auxiliaire (DSP)

• Ne pas utiliser cet appareil si le cordon d’alimentation est usé ou endommagé.

• Ne pas retirer le capot de protection. Retirer le capot peut vous exposer à des niveaux de

tensions très dangereux.

• Lorsqu’elle n’est pas utilisée avec la housse de protection waterproof (Martin Audio
Pt No ASF15019), la grille de protection waterproof (Martin Audio Pt No HAG01445) ou
n’utilisée pas avec des connecteurs ou cordons au minimum de classe IP24, la DD12 ne
doit pas être exposée à des éclaboussures et aucun contenants à liquide, comme des vases
ou bouteilles, ne doivent être posés sur l’appareils.

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CONTENTS

SAFETY INFORMATION .....................................................................................2

Important Safety Instructions ...................................................................... 2

Approvals .................................................................................................. 3

Safety Rules .............................................................................................. 4

CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ ................................................................................ 5

CONSIGNES DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES ................................................. 5

Aprobation ................................................................................................6

Règles de sécurité .....................................................................................7

INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................ 9

Unpacking the unitS ..................................................................................9

OVERVIEW ......................................................................................................10

REAR CONNECTION PANEL .............................................................................13

Mains Inlet .............................................................................................. 13

Neutrik® powerCON TRUE1 connector assembly instructions ..............13

Signal, U-Net and indicators ..................................................................... 16

CONNECTIONS ...............................................................................................17

Mains .....................................................................................................17

Audio Input and Link ...............................................................................17

USB .......................................................................................................17

U-Net .....................................................................................................18

GETTING STARTED .........................................................................................18

RIGGING ........................................................................................................19

Rotating the horn: .................................................................................... 21

Stacking: ................................................................................................21

Pole mounting: ........................................................................................ 21

ACCESSORIES ................................................................................................ 22

Universal Bracket ....................................................................................22

Fitting the bracket: ..........................................................................23

Yoke .......................................................................................................26

Fitting the yoke: ............................................................................... 26

Flightcase ...............................................................................................29

Transit Cover ...........................................................................................29

PRESET SELECTION .......................................................................................30

VU-NET OPERATION........................................................................................31

DD12 SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................... 32

WARRANTY.....................................................................................................34

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INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing this Martin Audio DD12 loudspeaker system.
The DD12 combines Class D amplification, powerful on-board DSP and networking capability

with Martin Audio’s exclusive Differential Dispersion™ horn technology. The DD12 can deliver
the highest quality audio, with consistent coverage, throughout the audience.

The DD12 can be used as a main PA speaker, either stand-alone or as part of a larger system
employing other Martin Audio system components. Its cabinet design also makes it ideal for use
as a wedge monitor.

This User Guide provides a detailed explanation of the DD12’s features and options. Please take
the time to read through the Guide even if you are experienced with other Martin Audio products.

Thank you again for placing your confidence in Martin Audio products.

UNPACKING THE UNITS

After unpacking the unit, please check it carefully for any damage. If any is found, immediately
notify the carrier concerned - you, the consignee, must instigate any claim. Please retain all
packaging in case you need to return the unit.

Please think of our environment.

When the product has reached the end of its useful life, please dispose of it responsibly through
a recycling centre.

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OVERVIEW

The DD12 is an active full-range loudspeaker with a 12” bass driver and a 1” HF driver, driven
by an integral, specifically-designed, two-channel amplifier with comprehensive DSP.

High power Class D, high efficiency amplifier channels are employed, incorporating individual
comprehensive digital signal processing. The combination of built-in amplification and DSP
offers a high level of control in a compact, lightweight loudspeaker. With the aid of Vu-Net
network control software, outstanding levels of consistent, high quality audio can be delivered.
The DD12 is intended to be used either singly or in multiples as a stand-alone, plug-and-play
system, or as additional elements in larger systems. Optimised venue push button presets are
accessible via the rear panel.

The DD12 has audio inputs that can be either standard balanced analogue or AES/EBU digital.
(AES/EBU only available when running a system under Vu-Net control.) A parallel connection
is available to daisy-chain between cabinets. The DD12 features network control via a U-Net
interface, which carries all control data for the on-board DSP. U-Net connections are made via a
pair of very high quality, rugged 8-way push-pull latching connectors rated for high speed data
applications.

Mains connection is via a Neutrik® PowerCON TRUE1 connector.

Each channel of DSP comprises extensive processing optimised for the driver being controlled:
this includes delay, parametric EQ, high and low pass filters, IIR all-pass filters, FIR low pass
filter and EQ, gain, phase and limiting. In addition there are user-accessible parameters including
delay, 10 bands of parametric EQ, high pass filtering, gain, phase and muting, when under
Vu-Net control.

The DD12 has a variety of rigging options, designed with Martin Audio’s considerable experience
in system deployment. This allows phenomenally quick system rigging and de-rigging, particularly
because there are no amplifier racks to set up and break down.

The DD12 is available in both Standard (non-IP rated) and IP24 Rated versions. (Note: The
IP rating is only valid for the IP24 Rated version when the DD12 is used in portrait mode,
i.e., upright.) Alternatively the Standard version may be upgraded to IP24 rating by fitting the
optional weatherproof cowl (Part No. ASF15019) and weatherproof grille (Part No. HAG01145).
The IP24-rated version is suitable for outdoor use in virtually any weather condition.

Note: The DD12 must be returned to either Martin Audio or an approved dealer to have the
weatherproof cowl and grille fitted to meet the IP24 specification.

Note: To attain IP24 rating, all connectors and cord sets must also meet the IP24 rating –
available as accessories from Martin Audio.

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The two versions of the DD12 can be distinguished by the visibility of the IP24 Marking. Below
is a photograph of the standard non-IP rated DD12, which has a Bezel trim (shown above) on
the amplifier panel. This bezel covers the IP24 rating plate, thereby confirming that it is not
IP-compliant. This version should not be exposed to dripping or splashing, and no object filled
with liquids, such as vases, should be placed on it.

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With the optional weatherproof cowl fitted (Martin Audio Part. No. ASF15019), the DD12’s IP24
rating plate is visible.

Provided that the DD12 is used in portrait mode (i.e., upright), with the cowl, the weatherproof
front grille (Martin Audio Part No. HAG01145) and Martin Audio Mains Cable sets fitted with
IP65-rated Neutrik® PowerCON TRUE1 connectors, it fully meets the requirement of the IP24
rating as tested and approved by NEMKO.

Note: the DD12 is only IP24-rated when used in “Portrait” (upright) orientation. See also
“Rigging” on page 19.

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REAR CONNECTION PANEL

MAINS INLET

The DD12 mains inlet is located on the rear of the cabinet and is a Neutrik® PowerCON TRUE1
Male receptacle, single phase, IP65 rated inlet connector. A mating IP65 PowerCON TRUE1
plug (without lead) is supplied as standard with the DD12. A comprehensive mains cabling
solution with C Form IP-rated input connectors is available for the DD12, which includes IP65­rated female outlets.

CEEFORM MALE LINE CONNECTOR
BALS PART NO. 21238 OR MARTIN
AUDIO APPROVED EQUIVALENT.

NEUTRIK NKPF-NC-A-5 FEMALE

POWERCON TRUE 1 CONNECTOR.

OVERMOULDED FOR IP65 RATING.

UN-ACTIVATED CLEAR HEAT-SHRINK

VELCRO LOOP

Typical use shown of the Neutrik® PowerCON TRUE1 connector system for powering appliances,
and making up extension cables.

Neutrik® powerCON TRUE1 connector assembly instructions

The PowerCON TRUE1 system is certified as a connector with breaking capacity according to
IEC60320 and VDE0625. It is intended for use as an appliance and interconnection coupler. It
serves to supply power to an appliance. It should be installed by qualified personnel only.

APPLIANCE INLET

CABLE EXTENSION

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Place bushing and
chuck over the cable.

Prepare cable as
shown.

A

B

1.

2.

[0.32 "]

8 mm

[0.78 7”]

20 mm

[0.9” ]

PE 23 mm

[0.32 "]

8 mm

[0.78 7”]

20 mm

[0.9” ]

PE 23 mm

1.

2.

A PPL IA N CE INL ET

NAC3FX

(Connector)

Power IN

NAC3MPX

Appr ov al based:

Rating:
Cable Type :

Strain Relief:
Cable O.D.:

VDE
EN 60320-1/EN60320-2-2

250 V ac / 16 A

2

H05VV-F3G 1.0 mm

2

.5 - 2.5 mm

White chuck

6.3 - 11.4 mm

, Length max. 2 m

H05VV-F3G 1

UL
UL 498 / CSA C22.2 No. 182.3

250 V ac / 20 A
SJT 3 x 12 AWG

Black chuck

9.5 - 12.0 mm

Wiring of the Neutrik® PowerCON TRUE1 connector system for powering appliances is detailed
below:

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DD12 USER GUIDE

Disassembly (open twist lock):

1. Press with screw driver to unlock

2. Turn bushing while still pressing locking.

(at )



E

D

C

Slide the cable into the contacts and clamp with
the screw.

Wiring VDE UL

Slide insert and chuck into housing.

Slide the cable clamp bushing up the cable and
tighten it with the tool as shown.
(Tool available: Art. No. HTAC)

L brown black

N blue white

green

/ yellow green





Important: Align the chuck by positioning the
nose into keyway.

4.

5.

Torque Value 2.0Nm

PRESS FIRMLY

3.

1.

2.

Wrench size

10 mm

1.

2.

Torque Value 0.7 Nm

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SIGNAL, U-NET AND INDICATORS

The connection panel is on the rear of the cabinet and features a female input XLR and a male
Link XLR for balanced analogue or AES/EBU digital input signals. Input type is selected via
Vu-Net software.

Two 8-pin rugged latching push-pull style data connectors are provided for the U-Net network
connection. Two ports are available so that the network connections can be daisy-chained
between further DD12 cabinets (or other U-Net equipped Martin Audio cabinets), or U-Net
equipped devices such as Martin Merlin system controllers when designing larger speaker
systems. Either connector can be used as input or link.

A single red LED indicates power and two bi-colour LED’s indicate U-Net network integrity.
Green indicates that the network is stable and red indicates an error.

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CONNECTIONS

MAINS

The DD12 may be powered by most AC mains voltages found throughout the world. It is fitted
with a Neutrik® PowerCON TRUE1 single phase mains inlet. If you are not using a Martin
Audio power distribution cable system, a mating Neutrik® PowerCON TRUE1 (NAC3FX) outlet
connector must be used. For outdoor use all mains power connectors should be rated to IP65.
See “Safety Information” on page 2 for electrical safety details.

AUDIO INPUT AND LINK

Analogue inputs should be connected with a good quality 3-pin male XLR wired to good quality
twin screened cable. This is particularly important if the input cable run is long (e.g., from the
FOH position to stage). Good quality cable will minimise losses. The Link outputs should use
a similarly high quality female XLR. The line driver at the signal source must be able to drive
the combined load of all DD12s being linked. Wiring is the industry standard for balanced
connections:

PIN CONNECTION

1 Ground or shield
2 Signal ‘hot’ (‘+’)
3 Signal ‘cold’ (‘-’)

AES/EBU input connections are identical to analogue, but the cable used must be a dedicated
low-capacitance digital audio cable with a characteristic impedance of 110 ohms, such as
Belden 1800F or 1696A. The DD12’s inputs can only be enabled for digital use via the Vu-Net
software application.

For more details of Merlin and U-Net please see the relevant User Guides.

USB

The Type B USB port allows connection of a PC for system control and monitoring purposes. For
simple set-ups using the internal presets, this connector may be ignored.

The USB port may be used for network control purposes in smaller systems in preference to
the U-Net system (see page 18). As USB connectivity generally imposes a 5 m cable length
limit, a Silex USB-to-Ethernet convertor is available from Martin Audio as an optional accessory
(Part No. ASF14103). This is a self-contained, physically small unit which can be attached with
Velcro or similar to the DD12. It connects to the DD12 with a standard USB cable, and back to
the laptop running Vu-Net via Ethernet.

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U-NET

When a networked system with multiple DD12s requires long cable runs – possibly including
other Martin Audio network devices - the dedicated U-Net Bus must be used as opposed
to USB, which is only suitable for short cable distances up to 5 metres. Connections are
made using Cat 5 cables fitted with 8-way push-pull latching connectors compatible with
Lemo Series K type. Robust Cat 5 cable such as Neutrik® Etherflex or Belden 1305A
should be used; this will ensure reliable network connections of up to 125 metres between
network ports. U-Net uses a redundant ring fault-tolerant protocol, so connections are
“daisy-chained” between all units on the network, going from Port 1 on the first unit to Port 2
on the next, and so on. The last network link is back to Port 2 on the first unit, thus completing
the loop. The U-Net network will operate perfectly well without a closed loop but it is strongly
recommended to use this option so that the network will continue to work in the event of a break
in cable or disconnected connector.

Ready made tour-grade network cables are available as accessories from Martin Audio in a
variety of lengths, suitable for inter-cabinet patching to FOH-to-stage runs.

GETTING STARTED

Before deploying the DD12, decide on the method of rigging to be used; please see “Rigging” on
page 19 for details of rigging options. If the cabinet is to be ground stacked or pole-mounted
it can be rigged completely before connections are made. If the cabinet is to be flown, it will be
necessary to make connections as rigging is carried out.

While attaching cabinets to a scaf pole or truss, the mains, network and audio connections
must be made. We strongly recommend using the Martin Audio mains distribution system which
greatly simplifies mains wiring and keeps the wiring neat and tidy. In all cases, the wiring to
the cabinets must be secured to the grid above if flown and the connections dropped down to
each cabinet. This ensures that the weight of the cable loom does not put undue stress on the
connectors. Each mains connector should be plugged into the mains inlet.

The U-Net network cable should be connected to the first co-located cabinet and short linking
cables used to “daisy-chain” between adjacent cabinets. Finally a long U-Net cable should go
from the final cabinet in the group to the next device on the network. This could be more DD12s
on the other side of the stage, other U-Net enabled speakers or amplifiers, or a Merlin controller.

Audio connections can be made in the same way, with a feed from the signal source connected
to the input of the first cabinet and short linking cables going from the Link output to the input
of the next cabinet.

When many DD12s are in use, or when they form part of a larger system (typically of MLA, MLA
Compact or MLA Mini cabinets), Display 2.1™ and Vu-Net software can be used to calculate the
physical parameters for the system. This data can then be applied to give the optimum coverage
for the venue. Vu-Net also offers comprehensive equalisation and monitoring so that all aspects
of the array performance can be adjusted and analysed.

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RIGGING

An important feature of the DD12 is that it may either be used in horizontal orientation
(‘landscape’), vertical orientation (‘portrait’) or as a floor monitor. The ex-factory configuration
is for ‘portrait’ mode use; if the cabinet is to be used horizontally, the HF horn unit should
be removed, rotated through 90°, and re-attached. This will ensure that the cabinet’s design
dispersion characteristics are retained.

Important: the IP rating of the IP24-rated version of the DD12 is only valid when it is used in
vertical orientation. The DD12 should not be used in outdoor or other inclement environments
either in horizontal orientation, or as a floor monitor.

The horn includes two sets of icons to indicate the correct orientation for each deployment
method.

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The two “pole mount” icons should be towards the top of the cabinet when it is being used in
either vertical and horizontal orientation, as shown below (note the icons):

The DD12’s cabinet has been designed to make it usable as a monitor wedge when used in
landscape mode. When deployed as a floor monitor, the DD12 horn should be rotated so that the
“wedge” icon is uppermost:

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ROTATING THE HORN:

To rotate the horn, two medium (3 mm) flat-blade screwdrivers and a 3 mm hex (Allen) key are
required.

First remove the grille. The grille is constructed from a steel mesh which is flexible; slight
bending of the sides allow it to be retained in grooves on either side of the cabinet. There are
three notches in the side of the grille. Insert the two screwdrivers into the upper two of these and
carefully prise the grille out of its slot. When the top and middle are clear you can remove the
top screwdriver and repeat the operation with the lower notch until the edge is completely clear
of the slot. The grille will then pop away from the cabinet.

Next, use the hex key to remove the eight M5 screws holding the horn in place. Withdraw the
horn a few centimetres from the cabinet and rotate it to the desired position, noting the icons
showing the orientation for the various modes of operation. Replace all eight screws and tighten.

Replace the grille by inserting one edge into the slot on one side of the cabinet. Pull the other
side outwards whilst pushing the middle of the grille inwards so that the edges clears the cabinet
side and you can push it all the way into position.

STACKING:

DD12s may be ground-stacked. This is commonly done for front fills on a stage lip. Landscape
orientation will generally be more appropriate as the cabinets will be less obtrusive. See the
notes above regarding horn rotation.

POLE MOUNTING:

The DD12 is fitted with a standard top hat insert in the bottom of the cabinet allowing it to be
mounted directly (in “portrait” orientation) onto a standard pole mount.

No tilt adjustment is possible with this simplest mounting option.

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ACCESSORIES

The DD12 has a number of accessories available to give a wide range of deployment and
transportation options.

UNIVERSAL BRACKET

The ASF20046 Universal Bracket allows the DD12 to be mounted in a number of ways. It can
be fitted to with the top, bottom or side of the cabinet, and offers a single 13 mm (1/2”) fixing
point which can be used to secure the cabinet to any standard 35 mm speaker stand using a
pole mount adaptor (Part No. ASF20045) or a scaffold clamp.

Greater mounting flexibility can be obtained by using the Universal Bracket with a pole mount
adaptor: the cabinet may be used in “landscape” mode (with the horn rotated 90 degrees).
The Universal Bracket allows the DD12 to be tilted upwards or downwards in either portrait or
landscape orientation on the pole mount. The bracket has a ±45° range of angle adjustment,
though this should be restricted to ±15° when pole mounting.

It is also possible to mount with the cabinet upside down (in portrait mode) on a pole, providing
the horn is rotated through 180°.

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When fitted with a scaffold clamp - either a standard half-coupler or trigger clamp (as shown) ­the DD12 can be mounted either way up in portrait orientation, or in landscape orientation; the
bracket allows the tilt to be adjusted in either case.

If more extreme angles of down-tilt are necessary, a second clamp position may be used in
conjunction with the supplied spacer block.

Horizontal adjustment after mounting may be performed by not fully tightening the bolt securing
the clamp; this will leave a small degree of play for accurate cabinet alignment.

For fixed installations, we suggest using a length of M12 (½”) high tensile steel studding hanging
vertically down and a pair of locking nuts to attach it to the bracket.

Fitting the bracket:

The only tool required to fit the bracket to the cabinet is a 5 mm hex (Allen) key. Attaching a pole
mount adaptor or scaffold clamp will also require spanners or adjustable grips to suit the size of
bolt used to attach the accessory to the bracket.

The bracket is supplied with two M8 x 35 mm countersunk head fixing screws
(Part No. FAA08018), and the spacer block.

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IMPORTANT: It is essential that the M8 x 35 screws are used to fit the bracket. Do not use the
existing screws in the cabinet M8 inserts, which are too short, and are not rated for use with
flown systems. A flown DD12 using these screws to fix the bracket will NOT be safe.

The bracket may be fixed to the cabinet in a number of different positions, on the top, bottom or
side (relative to portrait orientation). The fixing locations are central in each face; note that the
cabinet has additional M8 inserts which are not relevant to the bracket fixing. The bracket will
only align correctly with the correct inserts.

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Having determined the fixing location to be used, remove the existing screws and discard.

It is easier to fit a pole mount adaptor or scaffold clamp to the Universal Bracket before attaching
it to the cabinet. Once this is complete, place the bracket in position and screw into place using
the M8 x 35 mm screws supplied with the bracket. Ensure these are fully tightened.

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YOKE

The DD12 Yoke (Part No. ASF20047 provides an alternative option for mounting. It is most
suitable for fixed installations but can also be used in portable applications. It can be used to
mount the speaker to a wall or ceiling. Horizontal adjustment is available in portrait orientation
and vertical adjustment in landscape orientation. The yoke has a 13 mm (1/2”) central fixing
hole which can be used with a scaffold clamp or pole mount adaptor for portable applications
with the cabinet in landscape orientation.

Fitting the yoke:

A 5 mm hex (Allen) key and a 13 mm spanner (wrench), socket or adjustable wrench are
required to fit the yoke.

The yoke attaches to the cabinet top and bottom (relative to portrait orientation). The yoke is
asymmetrical: one arm carries a spigot which locates in the top hat fitting in the bottom of the
cabinet and the other a fixing plate with a hole, through which an M8 screw fixes to the central
insert in the cabinet top.

The yoke is supplied with an M8 x 40 mm dia. handwheel, an M8 x 40 bolt, an 8 mm spring
washer and an 8 mm plain washer.

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Either the handwheel or the bolt may be used; the former is preferable if the cabinet is likely
to require subsequent readjustment; use the bolt if the cabinet angle should not be altered.
Note that both the handwheel and M8 bolt are high tensile steel, rated to take the weight of the
cabinet. Do not use other fixings under any circumstances, as this may result in the assembly
not meeting its safety rating.

For a permanent installation, it is easier to fit the yoke to the ceiling or wall and then attach the
cabinet to the yoke. For portable situations, attach the scaffold clamp or pole mount adaptor to
the yoke before attaching the yoke to the cabinet.

With the DD12 in portrait orientation, remove the existing M8 bolt from the centre position on
the top of the cabinet.

To fit the yoke, the upper arm must be pivoted away to allow the spigot on the lower arm to be
inserted into the top hat fitting in the base of the cabinet. Locate the two M8 x 70 mm bolts
securing the upper arm to the main frame of the yoke. The corner bolt acts as a pivot; the second
bolt (approx. 60 mm away) should be temporarily removed with the 13 mm spanner (wrench).

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Mate the spigot on the lower arm with the top hat insert in the cabinet bottom.

Then attach the upper arm to the cabinet top through the central hole with either the handwheel
or the M8 x 40mm bolt. Put both the spring washer (first), then the plain washer (second) onto
the handwheel or bolt. Screw into the cabinet insert. Tighten the fixing sufficiently to make it
safe but allowing any fine adjustment if required. Finally, replace the M8 x 70 mm bolt in the
yoke upper arm to secure it and tighten.

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FLIGHTCASE

A DD12 flightcase is available as an optional accessory. It is designed to hold two DD12s
with a central section for two ASF20046 universal brackets. Brackets can be stored neatly in
contoured timber sections with scaffold clamps or pole mount adaptors still attached if wished.
Further storage space is provided for tools, tape or additional rigging hardware.

TRANSIT COVER

A tough canvas transit cover is available for the DD12. This drops over the top and has
cut-outs to suit the handle contours on either side. It protects the cabinet while allowing easy
transportation.

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PRESET SELECTION

The DD12 has 15 internal Preset memories. The memories can hold a set of cabinet parameters
which optimise the DD12 for use in a particular situation.

The first three memories (1 to 3) are pre-loaded with Factory Presets as follows:

• Preset 1 - for using the DD12 with a Pole Mount

• Preset 2 - for using the DD12 as a stage monitor

• Preset 3 - for using the DD12 as a Front Fill on a stage apron.

Presets are selected by pressing the Select button on the rear panel. The adjacent seven-segment
LED display scrolls through the Presets with successive presses of the button, cycling back to
the beginning after the last Preset.

To differentiate them from the memories holding Factory Presets (1, 2 and 3), the User memories
use the first six letters of the alphabet, duplicated with a decimal point, instead of numbers, as
follows:

A b c d E F A. b. c. d. E. F.

The 12 User memories can be used to store your own presets, created using Vu-Net. For full
details of Vu-Net control please see the Vu-Net User Guide available from the Martin Audio
website www.martin-audio.com.

When shipped from the factory, User memories A, b and c contain duplicates of Factory Presets
1 to 3 respectively. All the other memories - d to F. - are loaded with copies of Preset 1, for Pole
Mount use. This should serve a good starting point for making parameter changes when creating
your own Presets.

If a preset number is flashing it indicates that Vu-Net has modified a preset in some way. To
restore a Preset to its unmodified state, press the Select button repeatedly until the display has
cycled back to the original number or letter. This will recall the stored version and the number or
letter will no longer flash - indicating that the Preset has been returned to its stored state. While
the DD12 can be operated with a modified set of parameters, the internal Presets can only be
overwritten by a command from the Vu-Net software.

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VU-NET OPERATION

Vu-Net is Martin Audio’s monitoring and control application. It may be used with the DD12,
either stand-alone or in conjunction with other Martin Audio network-ready products such as
MLA, MLA Compact, MLA Mini and PSX. Connection between a PC and the DD12 (or other
system components) may be made:

• directly on a one-to-one basis via USB (note the maximum USB cable length is 5 m),

• directly on a one-to-one basis via a Silex Ethernet-to-USB converter, or

• by using a Merlin system processor as a PC-to-network hub. When a Merlin is in use,

interconnection between the various cabinets in the system is via the U-Net network
protocol.

Vu-Net is also used to upload DSP parameters to the DD12, and to perform system firmware
checks.

It is important to realise that once a set of DSP settings has been uploaded into the system, the
presence or absence of a U-Net network in no way affects normal audio operation; cabinets will
continue to pass audio with their last known configuration even without an operational U-Net
network. This applies also to power-cycling: the DD12 retains the last-used set of parameters
when powered down and reloads them when re-powered, whether they were a Preset or
a modified set of parameters loaded from Vu-Net.

DSP functions which can be controlled via Vu-Net include level, mute, polarity, input selection,
delay, high pass filter and 10 bands of parametric EQ. User Presets can be stored and recalled
via the rear panel switch after the network is disconnected.

For full details please see the Vu-Net User guide which is available from the Martin Audio
website.

Sample Vu-Net screens

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DD12 SPECIFICATIONS

ACOUSTICAL

TYPE Compact, Differential Dispersion™, powered two-way system
FREQUENCY RESPONSE (see note 1) 65 Hz - 18 kHz ± 3 dB
MAXIMUM SPL @ 1m (see note 3) 125 dB continuous, 131 dB peak

DRIVERS

LF 1 x 12”/300 mm (4”/100 mm voice coil), long excursion,

neodymium magnet driver

HF 1 x 1”/25 mm exit (1/7”/44 mm voice coil), polyimide dome,

neodymium magnet compression driver

RATED POWER (see note 2)

LF 400 W AES, 1600 W peak
HF 50 W AES, 200 W peak

DISPERSION

Differential Dispersion: 110° - 60° horizontal, 60° vertical

AUDIO INPUT

CONNECTORS Female XLR input, male XLR link output
ANALOGUE INPUT IMPEDANCE 20 kohms balanced to ground
MAXIMUM ANALOGUE INPUT LEVEL 110 ohms balanced, receive and transmit termination

INTERNAL PROCESSING

Multi-channel DSP, programmable via network
8 PEQ/shelving filters
Up to 48 dB/Oct HPF
Vanishing Point™ FIR crossover filters
Up to 1 sec of delay
Preset selection via rear panel switch

NETWORK

CONNECTORS IP68 rated 8-way, quick-release type
PROTOCOL U-NET
PC CONNECTION Micro USB or via U-NET and Merlin controller
AMPLIFIER MODULE
TYPE 2-channel switch-mode, class D
PEAK OUTPUT POWER 2100 W total

1400 W LF, 700 W HF
AVERAGE EFFICIENCY 85%
COOLING Internal fan

Temperature controlled external fan
MAXIMUM AMBIENT TEMPERATURE 45°C (113°F) for full output

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POWER SUPPLY

TYPE Switch mode, fixed frequency with PFC
AC INPUT OPERATING RANGE 100 – 240 V ~ AC, 50 – 60 Hz
AC OVERVOLTAGE TOLERANCE 400 V AC
POWER FACTOR > 0.95
NOMINAL POWER CONSUMPTION 200 W
MAINS CONNECTOR Neutrik® PowerCON TRUE1

GENERAL

ENCLOSURE Extensively braced multi-laminate birch-ply
FINISH Textured black PU coating
PROTECTIVE GRILLE Black HEX perforated steel, Declon® backed
FITTINGS Top hat for pole mounting

15 x M8 threaded inserts
Two side pocket handles
Optional weatherproof cowl and grille

IP RATING IP24 (when used in portrait mode (i.e. upright), and with

weatherproof cowl and grille fitted)

DIMENSIONS (W) 360 mm x (H) 571 mm x (D) 584 mm (503 mm with cowl)

(W) 14.2 in x (H) 22.5 in x (D) 15.1 in (19.8 in with cowl)

WEIGHT 26 kg (57.2 lbs)

Notes

(1) Measured on-axis in free (4π) space at 2 metres, then referred to 1 metre.
(2) AES Standard ANSI S4.26-1984.
(3) Measured in free space at 1 metre with a tone burst signal

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WARRANTY

Martin Audio DD12 Loudspeaker Systems are warranted against manufacturing defects in
materials or craftsmanship over a period of 5 years from the date of original purchase.

Martin Audio DD12 Amplifier modules are warranted against manufacturing defects in materials
or craftsmanship over a period of 1 year from the date of original purchase.

During the warranty period Martin Audio will, at its discretion, either repair or replace products
which prove to be defective provided that the product is returned in its original packaging,
shipping prepaid, to an authorised Martin Audio service agent or distributor.

Martin Audio Ltd. cannot be held responsible for defects caused by unauthorised modifications,
improper use, negligence, exposure to inclement weather conditions, act of God or accident, or
any use of this product that is not in accordance with the instructions provided by Martin Audio.
Martin Audio is not liable for consequential damages.

This warranty is exclusive and no other warranty is expressed or implied. This warranty does not
affect your statutory rights.

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Martin Audio Limited

Century Point

Halifax Road

Cressex Business Park

High Wycombe

Buckinghamshire

HP12 3SL

England

UK

Telephone: [phone]

Facsimile: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

NORTH AMERICA

Telephone: [phone]

Facsimile: 519 747 3576

E-mail: [e-mail]

All information is Copyright © 2014 Martin Audio Ltd.
Martin Audio, the Martin Audio logo and DD12 are registered trademarks of Martin Audio Ltd. in the United Kingdom,

United States and other countries; all other Martin Audio trademarks are the property of Martin Audio Ltd.
All other trademarks and trade names are the property of their respective owners.

www.martin-audio.com