V201610
PFA18s/PFA18sp
ACTIVE/Passive Front-Loaded
Subwoofer
USER MANUAL
NEXT PFA18s/PFA18sp - User Manual
www.next-proaudio.com
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION - 1 -
UNPACKING - 1 -
PFA SERIES OVERVIEW - 1 -
SAFETY FIRST - 2 -
PFA18s POWER AMPLIFIER AND DSP - 4 -
PFA18sp - 5 -
WARRANTY - 6 -
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS - 6 -
CONTACTS - 8 -
NEXT PFA18s/PFA18sp - User Manual
www.next-proaudio.com
- 1 -
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing a NEXT PFA18s(p) ACTIVE/Passive Front-Loaded High Subwoofer.
This manual will provide you with useful and important information about your PFA18s(p) element.
Please devote some time reading this manual, and keep it at hand for future reference. NEXT-proaudio
is concerned with your safety and well-being, so please follow all instructions and heed all warnings.
Also, a better understanding of some specific features of the PFA18s(p) will help you to operate it to
its full potential. With a continuous evolution of techniques and standards, NEXT-proaudio, reserves
the right to change the specifications of its products without early warning. For the most current data,
please visit our website: www.next-proaudio.com
UNPACKING
NEXT PFA Series systems are built in Europe (Portugal) by NEXT-proaudio, according to the
highest standards and thoroughly inspected before they leave the factory. When unpacking your
PFA18s, examine it carefully for any signs of possible transit damage and inform your dealer
immediately if any such damage has occurred.
It is suggested that you retain the original packaging so that the PFA18s can be repacked in
the future if necessary. Please note that NEXT-proaudio and its authorized distributors cannot accept
any responsibility for damage to any returned product through the use of non-approved packaging.
PFA SERIES OVERVIEW
NEXT-proaudio engineered the new PFA line of self-powered or passive speaker cabinets,
specifically for installations, musicians and DJs who want state-of-the-art acoustics and electronics
at a limited budget. This speaker line employs premium-quality multi-plywood with a hardening,
durable, and scratch-resistant coating, fully rotatable constant directivity horns to adjust H x V angle
coverage and custom made speaker drivers. Manufacturing takes place in Europe at our plant based
in Rio Tinto, Portugal.
This series are made up of speakers and subwoofers that bind together forming the perfect
combination. Several combinations of speakers and subwoofers can be done in order to satisfy your
needs. The active speakers feature a variety of factory presets that allow you to use it like a plug n’
play perfect solution for the venue.
The PFA18s is an 18” vented direct-radiator exhibiting outstanding transient response and
capable of delivering very high sound pressure levels.
NEXT PFA18s/PFA18sp - User Manual
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SAFETY FIRST
Please pay close attention to this chapter. Failure to comply with these instructions may
result on injury or death.
NEXT PFA Series systems are capable of producing extremely high sound
pressure levels and should be used with care. Hearing loss is cumulative
and can result from levels above 90dB if people are exposed for a long
period. Never stand close to loudspeakers driven at high levels.
DANGER – HEARING DAMAGE
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE
REFER SERVICE TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL
NEXT PFA18s/PFA18sp - User Manual
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• Do not use your PFA18s near any sources of water, like swimming pools, lakes, water
streams, exposed to rain, high humidity environments or any other source of water or
moisture.
• Use only a soft dry cloth to clean your PFA18s.
• Never place your PFA18s in a way that prevents air flow near the amplifier. A minimum
clearance distance of 6cm should be kept between the amplifier and any near surface.
• Never use your PFA18s too close to any heat source, such as radiators, or any other
device that produces heat.
• When mounted on a pole, always ensure that the floor or structure where the stack
will take place is even and can withstand the weight.
• Place cables in a way that they do not present a trip hazard.
• Do not place any objects on top of the stack, they can fall accidentally and cause
injuries.
• Do not attempt to move the enclosures while connected.
• Do not attempt to service the PFA18s beyond what is described in this manual. All
other service or repair of this product should be carried only by qualified personnel.
• To prevent electric shock, do not use any extension cord, receptacle or other outlets
where the blades of the connectors cannot be fully inserted.
• Precautions should be taken to prevent grounding failure or polarity switch.
• It is advised to unplug the PFA18s during storms or when not in use for a long period
of time.
RIGGING AND S USPENSION SAFETY CONSI DERATIONS
PFA Series enclosures are designed for portable applications, but can be suspended
by means of the threaded inserts provided. These enclosures are fitted internally with steel
corner reinforcement brackets to ensure that each cabinet is strong enough to be hung from
its top.
• Before rigging or suspending NEXT PFA Series systems, inspect all components and
all hardware for any signs of damage or missing parts. If you find any damaged,
corroded or deformed parts, do not use them, replace them immediately.
NEXT PFA18s/PFA18sp - User Manual
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• Do not use hardware that isn’t load rated or that its’ rating is not enough to handle the
system’s weight with a good safety factor (minimum 4:1).
• Suspended systems installation should only be carried out by qualified personnel.
• Always use adequate protective clothing and equipment to prevent possible injuries.
• Be sure you understand all local and national regulations regarding equipment
installation.
PFA 18s POWER AMPLIFIER AND
DSP
The PFA18s as all PFA series models, was designed to
achieve a simple to use and deploy versatile system. The
amplifier is designed to power not only the PFA18s itself,
but also any passive satellite or group of satellites, as long
as the minimum total impedance doesn’t reach below 4Ω.
The PFA18s, like all PFA series models, is prepared to be
completely plug’ n play, having already six pre-determined
configurations that cover almost all situations. But if you’re
not happy with any of those, there are also two available
user defined configurations, which can be used to adapt
the system to your needs using the NEXT-proaudio
SOUNDWARE1 software and the supplied RS485 to USB
converter.
Here is a brief description of the amplifier panel:
1- Signal Input/Output
2- Level Adjustment Potentiometer
3- Preset Selector
4- RS485 Communication Interface
5- List of Available Presets
6- Satellite Output
7- AC Mains Power Input/Output
8- Protection Circuit Breaker
9- Power On/Off Switch
1
Download NEXT-proaudio SOUNDWARE at www.next-proaudio.com/downloads
1 2 3 4 7
5 8 9
Never operate the PFA series Speakers
in a way that maintains the Limiter Led
consistently on.
6
NEXT PFA18s/PFA18sp - User Manual
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PFA118s Preset List:
0- Deep (LP80Hz): Low-pass filter at 80Hz 24dB/Oct Linkwitz-Riley
1- Punch (LP100Hz): Low-pass filter at 100Hz 24dB/Oct Linkwitz-Riley
2- Extended (LP122Hz): Low-pass filter at 122Hz 24dB/Oct Linkwitz-Riley
3- No LP (User Select): A Low-pass filter can be defined by the user accordingly to their needs
4- Sub+Satellite (Flat): Flat frequency response with the satellite designated on “Programmed
Satellite” label
5- Sub+Satellite (Music): Frequency response adapted for music reproduction with the satellite
designated on “Programmed Satellite” label (Ear compensation, due to high SPL levels, at the midhigh frequency range
6 / 7- User Defined: Free memory for user storage (OUTPUT is muted by default)
PFA18sp
The PFA18sp is the passive version of the PFA18s. Able
to deliver an extremely high output and dynamics for its
size, extreme linearity and fidelity, is one of the best
solutions in its class, in terms of price/quality ratio on the
market. PFA18sp is an 8Ω speaker with 1000W
resulting in an extremely high power signal output. The
speaker must be connected using a 4-point SpeakON
connector on 1+ / 1- speakON points. This subwoofer
can be used to complement the PFA full-range speaker
extending its bandwidth.
NEXT PFA18s/PFA18sp - User Manual
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WARRANTY
NEXT-proaudio’s products are warranted, by NEXT-proaudio, against manufacturing defects
in materials or craftsmanship over a period of 5 years for the passive loudspeakers, and 2 years for
all other products counting from the date of original purchase. The original receipt of purchase is
mandatory for warranty validation purposes, and the product must have been bought from a NEXTproaudio authorized dealer.
The warranty can be transferred to a subsequent owner during the warranty period; however,
this cannot extend the warranty period beyond the original warranty period of five years from the
original date of purchase stated on the NEXT-proaudio’s invoice.
During the warranty period NEXT-proaudio will, at its own discretion, either repair or replace
a product which prove to be defective provided that the product is returned in its original packaging,
shipping prepaid, to an authorized NEXT-proaudio service agent or distributor.
NEXT-proaudio cannot be held responsible for defects caused by unauthorized 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 this manual and/or
NEXT-proaudio. NEXT-proaudio 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.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
PFA18s Block Diagram
NEXT PFA18s/PFA18sp - User Manual
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DIMENSIONS
NEXT PFA18s TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Speaker Type
ACTIVE Reflex Subwoofer
Frequency Response (-6dB)
38Hz – X-Over
Calculated Max. SPL (Cont/Peak)
133dB / 139dB (Half-Space)
Components
1 x 18” Long Excursion / 4” Voice Coil Custom Speaker
Amplifier Technology
2 Channel Switched Mode Class D with DSP (1650W)
Power to Int. Speaker (Sub)
(RMS)
1100W
Power to Ext. Speaker (4Ω Sat)
(RMS)
550W
Construction
18mm Multi-laminate Birch Plywood, Screwed and Glued
Finish
Black Textured Scratch Resistant Paint
Grille
Steel, Black Finish (also available in other colours)
Dimensions (W x H x D)
525 x 703 x 735 mm
Net Weight
47.1 kg
Shipping Weight
50.7 kg
NEXT PFA18sp TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Speaker Type
Passive Reflex Subwoofer
Frequency Response (-6dB)
38Hz – 270Hz
Calculated Max. SPL (Cont/Peak)
133dB / 139dB (Half-Space)
Components
1 x 18” Long Excursion / 4” Voice Coil Custom Speaker
Program Power
1000W
Nominal Impedance
8Ω
Construction
18mm Multi-laminate Birch Plywood, Screwed and Glued
Finish
Black Textured Scratch Resistant Paint
Grille
Steel, Black Finish (also available in other colours)
Dimensions (W x H x D)
525 x 703 x 735 mm
Net Weight
44. kg
Shipping Weight
47.5 kg
NEXT PFA18s/PFA18sp - User Manual
www.next-proaudio.com
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V201610
CONTACTS
In case of any doubts or any information just:
Write us:
NEXT-proaudio
Rua da Venda Nova, 295
4435-469 Rio Tinto
Portugal
Contact us:
Tel. +351 22 489 00 75
Fax. +351 22 480 50 97
Send an e-mail:
info@next-proaudio.com
Search our website:
www.next-proaudio.com
Follow us on:
Facebook: facebook.com/nextproaudio
Instagram: instagram.com/nextproaudio
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/next-proaudio
Twitter: twitter.com/next_proaudio
Youtube: youtube.com/user/NEXTmanufacturer
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