The product herewith complies with the requirements
of the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC and the
EMC Directive 89/336/EEC.
1.0 kV Power Lines
Office of Quality Manager
Berkeley, California USA
April 1, 1997
Made by Meyer Sound Laboratories
Berkeley, California USA
European Office:
Meyer Sound Lab. GmbH
Carl Zeiss Strasse 13
56751 Polch, Germany
Contact Information
Meyer Sound Laboratories, Inc.
2832 San Pablo Avenue
Berkeley, California 94702
Telephone: 510 - 486 - 1166
FAX:510 - 486 - 8356
E-mail: info@meyersound.com
www.meyersound.com
Environmental Specifications for
Meyer Sound Electronics Products
Operating temperature:0 C to +45 C
Non-operating temp:< ñ40 C or > +75 C
Humidity:to 95% at 35 C
Operating altitude:to 4600 m (15,000 ft)
Non-operating altitude:to 6300 m (25,000 ft)
The Meyer LD-1A Line Driver combines functions
previously accessed on the control electronics units for
externally amplified Meyer loudspeakers with new
features, and locates them in a self-contained device
accessible to the sound engineer during setup and
performance. The LD-1A
• integrates different types of Meyer self-powered
speakers into a full-range main system;
• provides gain, mute, and optimized EQ controls
for six auxiliary systems;
• maintains signal integrity for long cable paths.
Channels 1 and 2, equipped to control the main system,
each have:
• a gain control, mute switch, and crossover
function;
• separate Mid-Hi, DS-2 (mid-bass), and Sub
output controls;
• a male XLR Loop connector to route the input
signal to an auxiliary channel or another device.
The six auxiliary channels (3–8) control down-fill, frontfill, and delay systems. Auxiliary channels can also be
used to divide a main system into subsystems, allowing
independent signal levels for speakers directed at different
audience locations. Each auxiliary channel has a mute
switch, gain control, and Lo Cut and Array EQ filters. All
eight channels are fully independent from each other.
The LD-1A occupies two rack spaces and is constructed
with a 16-gauge steel chassis and 1/8” aluminum rack
ears. This rugged design provides protection from
accidental impact, magnetic isolation from nearby
devices, and EMI immunity.
Meyer Speaker Types
The following Meyer self-powered speakers are mentioned
in this document.
MSL-4Self-powered mid-hi speaker
CQ SeriesSelf-powered mid-hi speaker
DS-2PSelf-powered mid-bass speaker
650-PSelf-powered subwoofer
PSW-2Self-powered subwoofer
The LD-1A presents a 10 kOhm balanced input impedance to a three-pin XLR connector wired with the following convention:
Case—Earth (AC) ground and chassis
Pin 1—Earth (AC) ground and chassis
Pin 2—Signal
Differential Inputs
Pin 3—Signal
The LD-1A is balanced in and out, and consequently has
no hot (+) pin. Pins 2 and 3 carry the input as a differential
signal. Use standard audio cables with XLR connectors
for balanced signal sources.
The audio input signal should always be applied between
pins 2 and 3. Pin 1 is connected to chassis and acts as a
safety and current bleed to earth for the EMI and ESD
interference coupled onto the shield of the input cable.
Pin 1 is therefore a noisy ground, and connecting an audio
signal between pins 1 and 2, or pins 1 and 3, results in
a noisy audio signal.
Most modern balanced audio sources (electronically
balanced or transformer output) conform to the wiring
convention described above and interface correctly with
the LD-1A. However, an audio source may produce noise
if it connects pin 1 to a quiet internal audio ground, and
is then connected to pin 1 of the LD-1A (chassis/earth).
To alleviate this noise, try disconnecting pin 1 (or the
cable shield) of the audio source.
To connect an unbalanced audio source to the LD-1A,
use the following wiring connections:
Tip is
Tip is
positive
positive
terminal
terminal
RCA output
RCA output
jack
jack
–
+
+
–
Ring is
Ring is
negative
negative
terminal
terminal
–
–
••
••
Connect shield to – terminal (ring
Connect shield to – terminal (ring)
if the source equipment is floatin
if the source equipment is floating.
Do not connect the shield if the
Do not connect the shield if the
source is grounded.
source is grounded.
shield
shield
LD-1A input
LD-1A input
XLR
XLR
3
3
2
2
1
chassis/earth
1
terminal
chassis/eartterminal
4
Page 5
AC Power
Mute
CH 1
Sub
φ
DS-2
& Sub
Crossover
DS-2
φ
Mute
Mute
Mute
Array
EQ
Lo Cut
CH 2
DS-2
& Sub
Crossover
Mute
Mute
Signal Mute-ClipSignal Mute-Clip
Master
-12
-6
-3
0
+3
+6
-9
DS-2
Mid-Hi
Sub
Array
EQ
Lo Cut
Master
Mid-Hi
-12
-6
-3
0
+3
+6
-9
-12
-6
-3
0
+3
+6
-9
-12
-6
-3
0
+3
+6
-9
-12
-6
-3
0
+3
+6
-9
Sub
φ
Mute
Sub
-12
-6
-3
0
+3
+6
-9
-12
-6
-3
0
+3
+6
-9
Mute
DS-2
φ
DS-2
-12
-6
-3
0
+3
+6
-9
Main Channels 1 and 2
AC Inlet and Voltage Select Switch
The LD-1A uses an international standard IEC 320
Mains AC inlet. This convenient rear panel receptacle
accepts many power cord types for mains outlets used
throughout the world. The LD-1A must have the correct
power cord for the AC power in the area in which it will
be used.
The LD-1A operates in two AC voltage ranges: 90 – 125 V
and 180 – 250 V, at 50 or 60 Hz. The voltage select switch
on the rear panel must be set to the proper voltage before
applying AC power. Connecting the LD-1A to a 225 V
AC source with the voltage select switch in the 90 – 125
V position could blow the fuse. Unplug the power cord
before changing the voltage select switch!
CAUTION:
Set voltage before
applying power.
AC Voltage Ranges
180-250V
~
90-125V~
CAUTION:
RISK OF FIRE REPLACE WITH
T250mA - 250V FUSE
90-125/180-250 V
50-60 Hz 25W MAX
~
The audio outputs are muted internally during normal
power on and off, and in case of sudden loss of AC power
or unstable line voltage. This precaution prevents noise
transmission, and possible damage, to interconnected
devices.
Donít use a ground-lifting adapter or cut the AC ground pin.
Voltage select
switch
IEC 320
male power inlet
Channels 1 and 2 are equipped to control a full-range
main system. Each channel has a Signal/Mute-Clip LED
indicator, mute switch, gain control, Mid-Hi, DS-2, andSub output controls, and a male XLR Loop connector.
The Master gain control sets the channel’s overall level.
The Mute switch mutes the entire channel. The bicoloredSignal/Mute-Clip LED indicates input signal presence
and level with a variable intensity green color, and clipping
or mute with red. The Loop connector is used to send the
input signal to an auxiliary channel or to another device.
The Mid-Hi, DS-2 (mid-bass), and Sub outputs each have
a level control and mute switch. The level control modifies
the level set by the channel’s Master gain control; the
mute switch affects the Mid-Hi, DS-2, or Sub output only.
For example, the Mid-Hi output could be muted without
affecting the Loop, Sub, or DS-2 outputs. Additional
functions specific to each output are described in the
following sections.
To avoid electrical shock and damage to the unit, use the
power cord specified by Meyer Sound or an equivalent
that satisfies the requirements of the local safety testing
agency. Do not operate the unit if the power cables are
frayed or broken.
AC Fuse
Always disconnect the power cord before changing the
fuse. To replace the fuse, insert a flat-blade screwdriver
in the fuse cap and gently turn counterclockwise; the
fuse springs from its socket. Replace only with a 5 x 20 mm,
T 250 mA, 250 V, time-lag fuse that conforms to identical
safety agency standards. If the fuse blows again, contact
Meyer Sound for repair information.
5
Page 6
Mid-Hi Output
The Mid-Hi output has two switch-activated, optimized
filters. Pushing the Lo Cut switch in activates a highpass filter (160 Hz, Q = 0.8, –12 dB/octave) that performs
a crossover function for the Mid-Hi output. The filter is
bypassed with the switch out.
Pushing the Array EQ switch in activates a filter (6 dB cut
at 220 Hz, 0.6 octave bandwidth) to equalize the lowmid rise produced by three to five horizontally arrayed
MSL-4s. The filter is bypassed with the switch out.
Auxiliary Channels 3-8
The six auxiliary channels 3–8 control down-fill, frontfill, and delay systems. Each channel has a Signal/MuteClip indicator, gain control, mute switch, and Lo Cut and
Array EQ filters, all of which are explained in the previous
section.
Channels 3–8 are identical; channels 4 and 5 are shown
below.
NOTE: The Array EQ filter compensates for MSL-4 array
characteristics in free-space. We recommend using the
Meyer SIM System II Sound Analyzer and CP-10 Paramet-ric Equalizer to measure and correct problems caused by
the acoustical environment.
It is important to note that the Mid-Hi output produces a
full-range signal when both the Array EQ and Lo-Cut
filters are out (bypassed).
DS-2 and Sub Outputs
The DS-2 & Sub Crossover network, optimized for the
DS-2P and 650-P (or PSW-2), is composed of a low-pass
and an elliptical filter. Pushing the switch in activates
the two-way crossover, sending frequencies below 80 Hz
to the Sub output and above 80 Hz to the DS-2 output.
With the switch out, a full-range signal is sent to both the
DS-2 and Sub outputs. When the DS-2P is used alone as
a subwoofer, or is not included in the system, the switch
should be out.
NOTE: Full-range signals may be applied to Meyer selfpowered subwoofers because they have built-in active
crossovers that filter mid-hi frequencies; external crossovers are unnecessary.
The DS-2 and Sub outputs each have a polarity toggle
(DS-2 φ, Sub φ). With the switch out, the polarity is set to
0°. Pushing the switch in inverts the polarity 180° with
respect to the out position.
CH 4
Signal Mute-Clip
-9
-12
Mute
0
-3
+6
Lo Cut
Array
EQ
Master
-6
+3
Mute
ActiveMute
φ
Polarity
0
180
Crossover
Sub DS-2 & Sub
Lo Cut
OutIn
Array EQ
OutIn
CH 5
Signal Mute-Clip
-9
-12
Mute
0
-3
+6
Lo Cut
Array
EQ
Master
-6
+3
Auxiliary channels 4 and 5 with switch function summary.
The auxiliary channels can also divide the main system
into separate subsystems. For example:
1. Route the CH 1 input signal to CH 3 using the
CH 1 Loop connector.
2. Connect the CH 3 output to the outer two elements
of an array of five mid-hi speakers.
3. Connect the Mid-Hi output to the inner three
elements of the mid-hi array.
Using main and auxiliary channels to apply separate
levels for the edge and internal elements of a mid-hi
system is incorportated into an example configuration
on page 8.
6
Page 7
Example Configurations
Although a typical MSL-4: PSW-2 ratio is 2:1, the Sub and
Mid-Hi gain controls allow the ratio to vary while maintaining control of the spectral balance of the system.
This section demonstrates the flexibility and utility of the
LD-1A with four example applications.
Speaker Placement and Polarity
The cabinets in the following example configurations are
in a close-proximity coplanar orientation, unless otherwise stated. Placing speakers more than 5 feet apart may
require setting them to opposite polarities to compensate
for the propagation delay between speakers.
Measurement and Correction
Measurement and correction tools are required to assemble a complete sound system, particularly when the
venue requires precise array design, delay systems, or
compensation for significant reverberation. We recommend
using the Meyer SIM® System II Sound Analyzer and
CP-10 Parametric Equalizer to
• assist the process of choosing and configuring
speakers;
• measure propagation delays between subsystems
to set the correct polarity and delay times;
• measure and equalize variations in frequency
response caused by the acoustical environment
and the placement and interaction of speakers.
The 650-P can be used interchangeably with the PSW-2
but the 650-P’s larger size precludes tight-packing
configurations with the MSL-4; the 650-P also lacks
rigging hardware.
MSL-4, DS-2P, and 650-P
Adding the DS-2P to an MSL-4/650-P system enhances
LF power and clarity. With the DS-2 & Sub Crossover
switch in, the DS-2 and Sub outputs each receive signals
optimized for the frequency response capabilities of the
DS-2P and 650-P.
The MSL-4 is driven from the CH 1 Mid-Hi output with
the Lo Cut filter in to minimize the overlap in frequency
response with the DS-2P and 650-P. Set the 650-P to the
opposite polarity to the MSL-4 and DS-2P.
Mid-Hi
DS-2
DS-2P/
DS-4P
Contact Meyer Sound for assistance with your application.
MSL-4 and PSW-2
The MSL-4 and PSW-2 form a compatible full-range
system. However, due to an overlap in LF ( low frequency)
response between the two speakers, there is a rise in the
system frequency response in the range 65–120 Hz. It is
important to emphasize that the speakers are in phase in
this region. The rise can be eliminated by activating the
Lo Cut filter for the Mid-Hi output, if desired.
Set the MSL-4 and PSW-2 to the same polarity.
650-P
Set the 650-P to the opposite polarity to the DS-2P and
MSL-4.
7
Page 8
PSW-2 Flown with MSL-4;
650-P on the Floor
Including subwoofers in a flown cluster provides a
smooth frequency image because the low and mid-hi
frequencies are produced from speakers located close
together. The identical dimensions of the PSW-2 and
MSL-4 allow them to be easily flown together.
The CH 1 Mid-Hi output drives the MSL-4 with the
Lo Cut filter in. The CH 1 Sub and DS-2 outputs drive
the 650-Ps and PSW-2s with the DS-2 & Sub Crossover
switch out, sending a full-range signal to each speaker
with independent levels.
MSL-4 and
PSW-2
flown in
CH 1 Mid-Hi
CH 1 InputCH 1 DS-2
LD-1A
Line Driver
CH 1 Sub
same cluster
650-P
subwoofer
on the floor
The CH 1 DS-2 and Sub outputs drive the DS-2P and 650P systems with the DS-2 & Sub Crossover switch in. Set
the MSL-4 and DS-2P to the same polarity. The polarity of
the 650-P depends on the height and distance of the measurement position from the subwoofer and flown systems.
CH 5 controls the CQ down-fill system. Since the main
system is more powerful than the down-fill system to
project farther into the venue, the main system is audible
in the down-fill’s coverage area. To insure that the speakers
combine properly in the intersecting coverage area:
• Set the CQ to the opposite polarity to the MSL-4 to
phase align the mid-hi frequencies and minimize
the MSL-4’s LF down-lobe.
• Use the CH 5 Lo Cut filter to eliminate the LF rise
caused by the overlap in frequency response with
the 650-P and DS-2P systems.
• Delay the down-fill to compensate for the propagation delay between the down-fill and main
systems in the intersecting coverage area.
We recommend that the entire system be measured,
phase-aligned, and equalized using the SIM System II
Sound Analyzer and CP-10 Parametric Equalizer.
Set the MSL-4 and PSW-2 to the same polarity. The
polarity of the 650-P depends on the height and distance
of the measurement position from the subwoofers and
flown cluster.
MSL-4, DS-2P, 650-P with CQ Down-fill
This example shows the LD-1A integrating a complete
system of self-powered speakers for a large venue.
The diagram shows half of the system using channels 1,
3, and 5; identical connections can be used for channels 2,
4, and 6 to create the other half. The MSL-4, DS-2P, and CQ
arrays are flown; the 650-Ps are on the floor.
The CH 1 Mid-Hi and CH 3 outputs drive the inner three
and outer two speakers of the MSL-4 array, applying
appropriate levels for speakers directed at different
distances. The diagram shows the additional mid-hi
output created by connecting the CH 1 Loop to the CH 3
input. Using a Y-connection at the CH 1 input (as shown
for the CQ down-fills) accomplishes the same signal
routing. The Lo Cut and Array EQ switches for CH 1
and 3 should be in. The Lo Cut filters eliminate the LF
rise caused by the overlap in frequency response between
the MSL-4 and DS-2P/650-P systems. The Array EQ
filters minimize the MSL-4 array’s low-mid rise.
Set the MSL-4 and DS-2P to the same polarity; reverse the
polarity of the CQ. The polarity of the 650-P depends on the
distance of the measurement position from the subwoofer
and flown systems.
8
Page 9
Safety Summary
!
English
• To reduce the risk of electric shock, disconnect the LD-1A
from the AC mains before installing audio cable. Reconnect
the power cord only after making all signal connections.
• Connect the LD-1A to a two-pole, three wire grounding
mains receptacle. The receptacle must be connected to a
fuse or circuit breaker. Connection to any other type of
receptacle poses a shock hazard and may violate local
electrical codes.
• Do not allow water or any foreign object to get inside the
LD-1A . Do not put objects containing liquid on, or near,
the unit.
• To reduce the risk of overheating the LD-1A, avoid exposing
it to direct sunlight. Do not install the unit near heat
emitting appliances, such as a room heater or stove.
• The LD-1A contains potentially hazardous voltages. Do
not attempt to disassemble the unit. The unit contains no
user serviceable parts. Repairs should be performed only
by factory trained service personnel.
Français
• Pour réduire le risque d’électrocution, débranchez la prise
principale de l’haut-parleur, avant d’installer le câble
d’interface allant à l’audio. Ne rebranchez le bloc
d’alimentation qu’après avoir effectué toutes les connections.
• Branchez l’haut-parleur dans une prise de courant à 3
dérivations (deux pôles et la terre). Cette prise doit être
munie d’une protection adéquate (fusible ou coupe-circuit).
Le branchement dans tout autre genre de prise pourrait
entraîner un risque d’électrocution et peut constituer une
infraction à la réglementation locale concernant les installations
électriques.
• Ne pas laisser de l’eau ou tout objet pénétrer dans l’hautparleur. Ne pas placer de r´cipients contenant un liquide
sur cet appareil, ni à proximité de celui-ci.
• Pour éviter une surchauffe de l’haut-parleur, conservez-la
à l’abri du soleil. Ne pas installer à proximité d’appareils
dégageant de la chaleur tels que radiateurs ou appareils
de chauffage.
• Ce haut-parleur contient des circuits haute tension
présentant un danger. Ne jamais essayer de le démonter.
Il n’y a aucun composant qui puisse être réparé par
l’utilisateur. Toutes les réparations doivent être effectuées
par du personnel qualifié et agréé par le constructeur.
Deutsch
• Um die Gefahr eines elektrischen Schlages auf ein Minimum zu reduzieren, den Lautsprecher vom Stromnetz
trennen, bevor ggf. ein Audio-Schnittstellensignalkabel
angeschlossen wird. Das Netzkabel erst nach Herstellung
aller Signalverbindungen wieder einstecken.
• Der Lautsprecher an eine geerdete zweipolige DreiphasenNetzsteckdose anschließen. Die Steckdose muß mit einem
geeigneten Abzweigschutz (Sicherung oder
Leistungsschalter) verbunden sein. Der Anschluß der
unterbrechungsfreien Stromversorgung an einen anderen
Steckdosentyp kann zu Stromschlägen führen und gegen
die örtlichen Vorschriften verstoßen.
• Darauf achten, daß weder Wasser noch Fremdkörper in
das Innere den Lautsprecher eindringen. Keine Objekte,
die Flüssigkeit enthalten, auf oder neben die
unterbrechungsfreie Stromversorgung stellen.
• Um ein Überhitzen dem Lautsprecher zu verhindern, das
Gerät vor direkter Sonneneinstrahlung fernhalten und
nicht in der Nähe von wärmeabstrahlenden
Haushaltsgeräten (z.B. Heizgerät oder Herd) aufstellen.
• Im Inneren diesem Lautsprecher herrschen potentiell
gefährliche Spannungen. Nicht versuchen, das Gerät zu
öffnen. Es enthält keine vom Benutzer reparierbaren Teile.
Reparaturen dürfen nur von ausgebildetem
Kundenienstpersonal durchgeführt werden.
Español
• Para reducir el riesgo de descarga eléctrica, desconecte de
la red el altoparlante antes de instalar el cable de
señalización de interfaz de la segnale. Vuelva a conectar el
conductor flexible de alimentación solamente una vez
efectuadas todas las interconexiones de señalizatción.
• Conecte el altoparlante a un tomacorriente bipolar y trifilar
con neutro de puesta a tierra. El tomacorriente debe estar
conectado a la protección de derivación apropiada (ya sea
un fusible o un disyuntor). La conexión a cualquier otro
tipo de tomacorriente puede constituir peligro de descarga
eléctrica y violar los códigos eléctricos locales.
• No deje que en el altoparlante entre agua ni ningún objeto
extraño. No ponga objetos con líquidos encima de la
unidad ni cerca de ella.
• Para reducir el riesgo de sobrecalentamiento, no exponga
la unidad a los rayos directos del sol ni la instale cerca de
artefactos que emiten calor, como estufas o cocinas.
• Este altoparlante contiene niveles de voltaje peligrosos en
potencia. No intente desarmar la unidad, pues no contiene
piezas que puedan ser repardas por el usuario. Las
reparaciones deben efectuarse únicamente por parte del
personal de mantenimiento capacitado en la fábrica.
9
Page 10
Specifications
Architecture
Main (Channels 1, 2)
Master Gain Control-12 to +6 dB
Mid-Hi, DS-2, Sub Gain Controls-12 to +6 dB
Low-cut Filter for Mid-Hi Output160 Hz high-pass, -12 dB/octave, Q = 0.8
Array EQ Filter for Mid-Hi Output6 dB cut at 220 Hz, 0.6 octave bandwidth
MuteMute switches for Master, Mid-Hi, DS-2, and Sub outputs
PolarityToggles for Sub and DS-2 outputs
Auxiliary (Channels 3-8)
Gain Control-12 to +6 dB
Low-cut Filter160 Hz high-pass, -12 dB/octave, Q = 0.8
Array EQ Filter6 dB cut at 220 Hz, 0.6 octave bandwidth
MuteMutes the channel output
Audio Inputs
Connector1 female XLR per channel
TypeDifferential balanced input circuit
Impedance10 k differential (between pins 2 and 3)
WiringPin 1: chassis/earth ground; Pin 2: signal; Pin 3: signal
RF FilterCommon Mode: 425 kHz low-pass; Differential Mode: 142 kHz low-pass
Common Mode Rejection Ratio> 80 dB (typically 90 dB); measured in the range 50 Hz -1 kHz
Signal Presence LED (Variable intensity; monitored at the input for each channel)
Threshold-26 dBV (50 mVrms) pink noise or sinewave
Full Intensity-10 dBV (300 mVrms) pink noise or sinewave
Audio Outputs
TypeBalanced, cross-coupled simulated transformer topology
Impedance50 Ohm balanced (between pins 2 and 3)
RF FilterPins 2 and 3 shunted to chassis via 500 pF capacitance
ConnectorIEC 320 (line, neutral/line, earth)
Operating Voltage90 - 125 VAC / 180 - 250 VAC (selectable with rear panel switch); 50/60 Hz
Maximum Power25 Watts; Fuse: 5 x 20 mm, T 250 mA, 250 V, time-lag
Audio Performance
Frequency Response< ±0.2 dB 20 Hz - 20 kHz
BandwidthDC to 60 kHz (-3dB)
Phase Response< ±3° from pure 3 µsec delay (DC - 20 kHz)
Dynamic Range
Noise Floor
THD + N
Gain Accuracy< ±0.15 dB at +6 dB gain; < ±0.25 dB at 0 dB gain
Mute Attenuation> 100 dB
Gain Range
Main Channels-24 to +12 dB
Auxiliary Channels-12 to +6 dB