P1200A Mainframe C- and E-Series Systems, MAX/MAX12 User Manual
References in the manual WARNING! This refers to a potentially dangerous situation which may lead to personal injury. CAUTION! This refers to a potentially dangerous situation which may lead to damage to the equipment. IMPORTANT! This refers to a situation which may cause the equipment to malfunction. Symbols on the equipment Please refer to the information in the operating manual. WARNING! Dangerous voltage! General Information P1200A, C-Series & E-Series Systems, MAX/MAX12 User Manual Version 5.
Safety precautions Before you use our products, read the manual carefully and observe all the safety precautions. They will protect you and help to avoid equipment failures. Keep this manual in a safe place so that it is available for future reference. If you supply d&b products, please draw the attention of your customers to these safety guidelines. Enclose the relevant manuals with the systems. If you require additional manuals for this purpose, you can order them from d&b .
Only carry out work specified in this manual and always disconnect the mains power supply. WARNING! All other work should be performed by trained service staff, especially in the following cases: - Mains power cable or plug has been damaged - Objects or liquids have entered the unit - The unit is not operating normally - The unit was dropped or the housing is damaged Information regarding use of loudspeakers Never stand in the immediate vicinity of loudspeakers driven at a high level.
CAUTION! Only use loudspeakers in the C and E-Series with the P1200A mainframe fitted with the correct controller modules or with a correctly configured E-PAC. The contoller monitors cone excursion and voice coil temperature of the drivers. When loudspeakers are operated without the correct controller, in addition to losses in tone, there is a risk of damage to the components. Any defects arising from operation other than those specified in this manual will be excluded from any warranty claims.
Displays and controls of mainframe These elements are described in section 2.7 Configuration switches These switches depend on the type of loudspeaker. They are described individually for each system in section 4. C7-TOP C7-SUB CUT 100Hz P1200A PWR HFA TEMP OVL OVL ISP GR PROT ISP MUTE B A GR MUTE REM 0 0 REM LOCK ON OFF -6 +6 -12 dB -6 +6 -12 dB Displays and controls of controller modules These elements are common to all controllers and are described in section 3.
Contents Safety precautions 1. Introduction ....................................................... 1-1 1.1. System concept......................................................................... 1-1 1.2. C-Series and E-Series system design..................................... 1-2 1.3. MAX loudspeaker and AMP modules ................................... 1-3 2. P1200A mainframe............................................ 2-1 2.1. P1200A power amplifiers .......................................................
1. Introduction This user manual describes the facilities and functions of d&b Systems which are operated with the P1200A mainframe. It covers the operation of the mainframe, the controller modules and the loudspeakers used in these systems. d&b publishes additional application and technical information notes (TI). Examples for different applications and combinations of C-Series and E-Series systems are given in TI 326. 1.1.
1.2. C-Series and E-Series system design The C and E-Series feature a range of compact loudspeaker models which cover nearly every sound reinforcement application. All these systems are operated with a related controller module fitted in a P1200A mainframe or with a suitably configured E-PAC. The loudspeakers are designed in such a way that they develop their maximum efficiency when operated with their respective controllers.
Depending on the level requirement, the full range systems can be supplemented by various active subwoofer systems. These systems are designated as -SUB. The active cross-over network is located in the related controller module. The C4-TOP occupies a special position among the C and E-Series cabinets. It is generally operated with an additional subwoofer system. All the loudspeakers in the C and E-Series feature cabinets made from marine plywood. They are coated with an impact resistant paint.
1-4 P1200A User Manual
2. P1200A mainframe The P1200A mainframe is housed in a 3 rack unit high, 353 mm (13.9") deep, 19" rack mount enclosure. Included in the mainframe are power supplies for the controller modules and mainframe electronics, two power amplifiers, monitoring and protection circuits and the associated display elements. C-Series and E-Series loudspeaker specific controller modules may be installed in either of the two mainframe module slots.
2.3. Mains power input and overvoltage protection FUSE T2A To protect against mains power overvoltage damage the P1200A is fitted with an efficient, self-resetting overvoltage protection circuit. The nominal mains power voltage for the standard version is 230 V (50 - 60 Hz).
Version Fuse for inrush current limiter Fuse for transformer 230 V 2 A Time Lag (T) 8 A Time Lag (T) 100 V 5 A Time Lag (T) 16 A Time Lag (T) 115/230 V 8 A Time Lag (T) 8 A Time Lag (T) 2.4. Mains power inrush current limiter The mains inrush current limiter ensures a slow "start-up" for the mainframe and allows several mainframes connected to the same mains supply circuit to be switched on together without temporarily overloading the supply circuit.
Computer/MIDI control Using a PC and the d&b ROPE control software or a MIDI control device, up to eight RIBs can be controlled via RS232, RS422 or MIDI interface. The following remote control and display options become available: Remote control − Power On/Off switching of mainframe − Level control from +6 to –57.5 dB in 0.5 dB steps. − MUTE switching − Configuration switching e.g. CUT, MON, etc.
2.7. Controls & indicators PWR PWR - Power (green) − Lights continuously when the mainframe is switched on and ready for use. TEMP PROT A B REM REM LOCK ON OFF − Off. The mainframe is not powered from the mains supply, the mains overvoltage protection has triggered (see 2.3.) or the mainframe is not switched on. − Flashes during the initial power-up cycle for about 2 seconds and also when the mains overvoltage protection circuit is triggered by an external fault (see also PROT below).
2.8. Connections INPUTS A/B and INPUT LINK Each of the two mainframe channels has its own 3 pin XLR female input connector. Below and wired in parallel with each input connector is a 3 pin male XLR input link connector used to feed the input signal on to the next device in the system signal chain. INPUT B INPUT A INPUT LINK INPUT LINK INPUT A relates to the left hand controller module, INPUT B to the right hand module (front view).
OUT CHANNEL A/B (loudspeaker outputs) The mainframe power amplifier outputs can also be found on the mainframe rear panel. The P1200A is fitted with 4 pin Speakons as standard, EP-5 output connectors are available as an option. All CSeries and E-Series loudspeakers use Speakon connectors as standard. OUT CHANNEL A The Speakon connector pin assignments match the type of loudspeaker used and therefore depend on the controller module fitted to the mainframe (see section 2.9.).
MIX configuration TOP-CO - left slot (INPUT A) C7-TOP C7-SUB CUT 100Hz INPUT A TOP-CO AMP A 1+ 1– 2+ 2– OUT A MIX INPUT B SUB-CO AMP B 1+ 1– 2+ 2– OUT B MIX INPUT A TOP-CO AMP A 1+ 1– 2+ 2– OUT A TOP INPUT B AMP B 1+ 1– 2+ 2– OUT B TOP INPUT A AMP A 1+ 1– 2+ 2– OUT A SUB HFA SUB-CO - right slot (INPUT B) OVL OVL ISP If the P1200A mainframe is fitted with mixed controller modules (a TOP module and a SUB module), then both mainframe power amplifier outputs share both Speakon o
2.10. Controller module exchange The modular design of the P1200A allows modules to be easily replaced or exchanged without the need for special adjustment or alignment. However, the mainframe internal output connector wiring needs to be re-configured when swapping a TOP or AMP-L module for a subwoofer module - and vice versa.
5. Check the loudspeaker output wiring (see below). If necessary change the output wiring to suit the new module configuration. 6. Reconnect the safety earth (ground) straps and refit the top and bottom covers (6 x M3 screws per panel). Ensure that the safety earth (ground) straps to both covers are reconnected. With loose connectors not only is the mainframe housing incorrectly grounded, there is also a risk of a short circuit inside the device.
2.11. Mainframe installation P1200A mainframe enclosures are designed to fit a standard 19" equipment rack or cabinet. The front panel vent slot serves as a useful handle for lifting and moving mainframes in and out of racks. The front panel switches are flush-fitted and the level control(s) and mainframe power switch are recessed to protect them from accidental damage and unintentional adjustment.
2.12. Power consumption and power loss The power required from the mains supply and the waste heat produced by the amplifiers power loss are variable figures depending on the load impedance and the signal levels and characteristics (e.g. speech, music). In practice, the theoretical peak power consumption of a system will only be sustained for a short period of time.
2.13. REMOTE addressing The structure of the P1200A object addresses in the d&b RIB is identical to the A1 and E-PAC addresses.
2.15. Technical specifications Nominal output power.................................................... 2 x 400 watts - 8 ohms (THD+N < 0.1%, both channels driven) .................................2 x 600 watts - 4 ohms Frequency response (–1 dB).......................................................... 10 Hz ... 40 kHz measured at rated output power, both channels driven Distortion (THD+N) .......................................................................................... < 0.06 % from 0.
3. Controller modules The controller modules include all the signal processing electronics, front panel controls and indicators needed to control and operate a specific matching loudspeaker system. The P1200A mainframe can be fitted with two controller modules with each module normally driving one of the two mainframe power amplifiers. The two mainframe power amplifiers can also be driven by a single controller module e.g. for a four cabinet mono subwoofer system.
Clipping limiter To maintain sound quality output stage clipping is kept within reasonable bounds by a limiter circuit. The limiter threshold alters to take account of the supply voltage to the mainframe power amplifiers. So if the mains supply voltage or the connected load impedance alter, then the limiter automatically tracks these changes to maintain the system sound quality. C4-SUB OVL 3.2.
4. Loudspeaker systems On the following pages you will find data sheets for the d&b loudspeakers which can be operated with the P1200A. The data sheets contain information about the loudspeakers and operation with their respective P1200A and E-PAC controller settings. 4.1. Data sheets for the loudspeakers The following data sheets are a compilation of the individual data sheets for the d&b loudspeakers.
E3 60 The E3 cabinet is a full range, two way bass-reflex enclosure. Fitted with a single 6.5" LF driver passively connected to a 1" HF compression driver coupled to a constant directivity horn with a 90° x 60° dispersion. Illustrated in the drawing on the left is an E3 with the standard 90° horizontal horn configuration. The horn can be rotated through 90° for a reversed 60° x 90° (h x v) dispersion. 90 The E3 cabinet is constructed from marine plywood with an impact resistant paint finish.
Connections 1+ 1 2+ 2 The E3 cabinet is fitted with a pair of Speakon-NL4 connectors. All four pins of both connectors are wired in parallel. The E3 uses the pin assignments 1+/1. Pins 2+/2 are designated to active d&b subwoofers. Using one connector as the input, the second connector allows for direct connection to additional loudspeakers. The connector plate is fitted to the E3 rear panel. Next to it, on the left hand side panel, is a metal blank plate with the cabinet details and serial number.
REMOTE LO IMP 1234 DELAY ON REMOTE LO IMP ON ON 1 2 3 4 5 6 Operation with E-PAC To drive E3 cabinets the E-PAC has to be configured to E3 mode. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 SPKR HFA CUT E-PAC version 1 E-PAC version 2 E-PAC Configuration for E3 For an E-PAC version 1 and 2, the configuration is selected by setting the appropriate DIP switches on the rear panel. For an E-PAC version 3, the configuration is set via a front panel digital rotary encoder in conjunction with an LCD.
Technical specifications E3 system data Frequency response (5 dB) .................................................................... 80 Hz ... 18 kHz Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) ...................................................................122 dB (SPLmax peak, pink noise test signal with crest factor of 4) Input level (SPLmax).................................................................................................... +9 dBu Input level (100 dB-SPL / 1 m) ...........................
E9 The E9 cabinet is a full range, two way bass-reflex enclosure fitted with a single 12" LF driver passively connected to a 2" HF compression driver coupled to a vertically asymmetrical 90° x 50° CD horn. The asymmetry of the HF horn means that the E9 has a vertical coverage pattern with a downward tilt. The actual vertical dispersion is 20° above and 30° below the cabinet axis. The E9 cabinet is constructed from marine plywood and has an impact resistant paint finish.
Operation with P1200A Up to two E9 loudspeakers can be driven by each P1200A power amplifier channel. Fitting one E9-CO and one subwoofer controller module allows a single mainframe to drive two E9 and two active subwoofer cabinets (E18-SUB or C7-SUB). All cabinets can be linked together locally and fed by a single four-wire cable from either mainframe output connector. The E9 can also be used with the E15-BX bass extension cabinet.
The E-PAC can drive a single E9 cabinet at an output power of 300 watts. LO IMP mode allows the E-PAC to drive two E9 cabinets with a 6 dB reduction of input level to the speakers. HFA setting In HFA mode (High Frequency Attenuation), the HF response of the E9 system is rolled off. The HFA circuit configures the E9 loudspeakers to provide a natural, balanced frequency response when a unit is placed close to listeners in near field or delay use.
Technical specifications E9 system data Frequency response (5 dB) .................................................................... 50 Hz ... 17 kHz Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with P1200A ...........................................128 dB Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with E-PAC ..............................................126 dB (SPLmax peak, pink noise test signal with crest factor of 4) Input level (SPLmax)............................................................................
E15-BX The E15-BX passive subwoofer system is used to extend the low frequency range of the E9 loudspeaker. The E15-BX bass-reflex cabinet is fitted with a single 15" driver and an internal passive crossover. The E15-BX cabinet is constructed from marine plywood, fitted with steel handles and has an impact resistant paint finish. The front of the loudspeaker cabinet is fitted with a rigid metal grill and covered with a replacable acoustically transparent foam.
Operation with d&b P1200A and E9 controller The characteristics of the configuration switches on the E9 controller are described previously in the E9 section of this manual. The E9 loudspeaker has a frequency response covering the 50 Hz to 17 kHz band. When combined with an E15-BX the systems low frequency SPL increases by 6 dB. To compensate for this selecting the BX switch on the E9 controller attenuates the LF by 3 dB.
Technical specifications E15-BX system data, passive setup with E9-CO Frequency response (5 dB).................................................................... 45 Hz ... 180 Hz Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field).................................................................... 126 dB (SPLmax peak, pink noise test signal with crest factor of 4) Input level (SPLmax) .................................................................................................
E18-SUB The E18-SUB is a compact, very low tuned bass-reflex design employing a single 18" driver. The E18-SUB loudspeaker cabinet is constructed from marine plywood and has an impact resistant paint finish. The front of the loudspeaker cabinet is fitted with a rigid metal grill covered with a replaceable acoustically transparent foam. Also at the front, fittings at the top and bottom edges of the cabinet are used to secure an optional transport lid E7908.
- & Operation with P1200A Up to two E18-SUBs can be driven by each P1200A power amplifier channel. Fitting one E18-SUB-CO and one C or E-Series TOP controller module allows a single mainframe to drive two E18SUB and two (E3: four) mid/high cabinets. All cabinets can be linked together locally and fed by a single four-wire cable from either mainframe output connector.
Technical specifications E18 system data Frequency response (5 dB)........................................................38 Hz ... 110 / 160 Hz Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with P1200A........................................... 130 dB Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with E-PAC ............................................. 128 dB (SPLmax peak, pink noise test signal with crest factor of 4) Input level (SPLmax) ..................................................................................
C6 The C6 cabinet is a full range, two way bass-reflex enclosure fitted with a 12" LF driver passively connected to a 2" HF compression driver which is coupled to a 60° x 40° CD horn. The C6 cabinet is constructed from marine plywood and has an impact resistant paint finish. The front of the loudspeaker cabinet is fitted with a rigid metal grill covered with a replaceable acoustically transparent foam.
Operation with P1200A Up to two C6 loudspeakers can be driven by each P1200A power amplifier channel. Fitting one C6-CO and one subwoofer controller module allows a single mainframe to drive two C6 and two active subwoofer cabinets (E18-SUB, C4-SUB or C7-SUB). All cabinets can be linked together locally and fed by a single four-wire cable from either mainframe output connector.
HFA setting In HFA mode (High Frequency Attenuation), the HF response of the C6 system is rolled off. The HFA circuit configures the C6 loudspeakers to provide a natural, balanced frequency response when a unit is placed close to listeners in near field or delay use. 10 5 0 -5 -10 High Frequency Attenuation begins gradually at 1 kHz, dropping by approximately 3 dB at 10 kHz.
Technical specifications C6 (C690) system data Frequency response (5 dB) .................................................................... 70 Hz ... 17 kHz Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with P1200A ................................133 (132) dB Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with E-PAC ...................................131 (130) dB (SPLmax peak, pink noise test signal with crest factor of 4) Input level (SPLmax)...............................................................................
C6-MON The C6-MON is a full range, two way bass-reflex enclosure fitted with a 12" LF driver passively connected to a 2" HF compression driver coupled to a 60° x 40° CD horn. A wedge shaped stage monitor with a 40° angled speaker baffle, the C6-MON is constructed from marine plywood and has an impact resistant paint finish. The front of the loudspeaker cabinet is fitted with a rigid metal grill covered with a replaceable acoustically transparent foam.
C6 controller module switches +$ Standard setting If the CUT switch and MON switch are not selected the module is configured for use with C6 loudspeakers used as a stand alone system without subwoofers. CUT switch & indicator Set to CUT, a high pass filter with a 110 Hz cut-off frequency is inserted in the controller signal path. The yellow CUT LED illuminates. The C6 system is now configured for use with d&b C-Series active subwoofers.
Technical specifications C6-MON system data Frequency response (5 dB).....................................................................65 Hz ... 17 kHz Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field).................................................................... 133 dB (SPLmax peak, pink noise test signal with crest factor of 4) Input level (SPLmax) ................................................................................................. +16 dBu Input level (100 dB-SPL / 1 m).........................
C4-TOP The C4-TOP is a two way horn loaded loudspeaker which provides high SPL coverage from mid to high frequencies. The constant directivity design of the C4-TOP's coaxial horns ensures that it's 35° x 35° dispersion is maintained down to 800 Hz. The driver complement consists of two passively coupled devices - a 12" low/ mid frequency driver and a 2" HF compression driver.
C4-TOP C4-TOP controller module switches HFC HFC switch & indicator In HFC mode (High Frequency Compensation, yellow HFC LED illuminated), the response of the system is tailored for remote listening positions. The characteristics of HFC mode are detailed in the graph below right. OVL Selecting the HFC switch compensates for loss of high frequency energy due to absorption in air when loudspeakers are used to cover far field listening postions.
Ground stacks are normally constructed by placing cabinets directly on top of each other. Having no vertical angle between TOP cabinets produces a strong coupling effect and increases vertical directivity which helps to provide coverage to the far field. However it is not recommended to stack TOP cabinets more than three high as this produces very different dispersion patterns in the mid and high frequency range.
Dispersion characteristics The diagrams below show dispersion angle vs frequency plotted using lines of equal sound pressure (isobars) at -6 dB and -12 dB. The nominal 35° dispersion is maintained from 16 kHz down to 800 Hz. Horizontal and vertical characteristics are identical. C4-TOP isobar diagram 10 5 0 -5 -10 -15 -20 -25 -30 20 100 1k 10k 20k C4-TOP frequency response on axis and 18° hor./vert. angles C4-TOP (2.
Technical specifications C4-TOP system data Frequency response (5 dB).................................................................. 150 Hz ... 18 kHz Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with P1200A ......................................... 138 dB Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with E-PAC ............................................. 136 dB (SPLmax peak, pink noise test signal with crest factor of 4) Input level (SPLmax) ..........................................................................
C4-SUB The C4-SUB is a compact, horn-loaded bandpass design employing a single 18" driver. It is designed for use with the C4-TOP cabinet as a part of the C4 System. The C4-SUB cabinet is constructed from marine plywood, fitted with steel handles, MAN CF4 stud plate rigging points and has an impact resistant paint finish.
For an E-PAC version 3, the configuration is set via a front panel digital rotary encoder in conjunction with an LCD. The E-PAC can drive a single C4-SUB cabinet at an output power of 300 watts. We do not recommend that two C4-SUB cabinets are driven in LO IMP mode as the 6 dB reduction in input level to the loudspeakers results in no gain in acoustical output. Stacking notes The horn chamber, which transmits frequencies ranging from approx. 70 Hz to 180 Hz, is located in the bottom half of the cabinet.
Technical specifications C4-SUB system data Frequency response (5 dB).................................................................... 50 Hz ... 150 Hz Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with P1200A ......................................... 133 dB Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with E-PAC ............................................ 131 dB (SPLmax peak, pink noise test signal with crest factor of 4) Input level (SPLmax) ..........................................................................
C3 The C3 is the line array module for the d&b C4 system. The C3 cabinet houses 2 x 10" mid-range drivers and 3 x 1.3" HF compression drivers, producing a maximum sound pressure level greater than 143 dB SPL.
C3 controller module switches C3 HFC HFC switch and indicator Selecting the HFC mode (High Frequency Compensation, yellow HFC LED illuminated), compensates for loss of high frequency energy due to absorption in air. The HFC switch should be used exclusively for those cabinets covering the very far field. This guarantees the correct sound balance between close and remote audience areas, whilst the mainframes driving the array can be fed with the same signal.
Longest C3 column in array Low shelf fc Gain dB 3 800 Hz –3 4 600 Hz –4 5 450 Hz –5 6 350 Hz –6 7 250 Hz –7 8 200 Hz –8 This typical behaviour can be compensated by using a standard 2nd order (12 dB) low shelf filter. The corner frequency and gain setting depend on the number of C3 cabinets in the longest column and on the overall array size. Typical corner frequencies are listed in the table on the left; the gain listed applies to a single column.
Time alignment and signal distribution When combining C3s and C4-TOPs the correct time alignment of both systems is of great importance. To achieve this C3 and C4TOPs have to be driven by separate input signals. With a delay of 0.3 ms in the C4 signal path both systems are perfectly coherent over the whole audio band, while the C3 signal path contains the vertical array equalization as described above.
Dispersion characteristics The diagram below shows dispersion angle vs frequency, plotted using lines of equal sound pressure (isobars) at –6 dB and –12 dB. The nominal horizontal dispersion of 35° is maintained above 900 Hz. C3 horizontal isobar diagram Example set up The example below shows a C3/C4 set up arranged to provide the coverage and level distribution for a simple rectangular audience area.
Technical specifications C3 system data Frequency response (–5 dB standard, two cabinets) .................130 Hz ... 16 kHz Frequency response (–5 dB LFC Mode, two cabinets).................80 Hz ... 16 kHz Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) .........................................................> 143 dB (SPLmax peak, pink noise test signal with crest factor of 4) Polarity to controller INPUT (XLR pin 2: +/3: –) ..................................LF: +/HF: + C3 loudspeaker Nominal impedance (LF/HF) ...
C7-TOP The C7-TOP is a two way horn loaded loudspeaker which provides full range coverage at very high SPLs. The constant directivity design of the coaxial horns used in the C7-TOP helps maintain the 75° x 40° dispersion down to 600Hz. Two passively coupled drivers are used - a 15 low/mid driver back loaded by a vented enclosure, and a 1.5 exit HF compression driver.
Connections 1+ 1 2+ 2 The C7-TOP cabinet is fitted with a pair of Speakon-NL4 connectors. All four pins of both connectors are wired in parallel. The C7-TOP uses the pin assignments 1+/1. Pins 2+/2 are designated to d&b C and E-Series active subwoofers. Using one connector as the input, the second connector allows for direct connection to additional loudspeakers. The C7-TOP can be supplied with EP-5 output connectors as an option.
Operation with E-PAC (only possible with E-PAC version 3 with display) To drive C7-TOP cabinets the E-PAC has to be configured to C7-TOP mode. For an E-PAC version 3, the configuration is set via a front panel digital rotary encoder in conjunction with an LCD. The CUT and HFA settings are available. The characteristics of the CUT and HFA settings are explained on the previous page under the section "C7-TOP controller module switches".
Technical specifications C7 system data Frequency response (5 dB) .................................................................... 68 Hz ... 18 kHz Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with P1200A ...........................................136 dB Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with E-PAC ..............................................134 dB (SPLmax peak, pink noise test signal with crest factor of 4) Input level (SPLmax)............................................................................
C7-SUB The C7-SUB is a bass-reflex design employing a long excursion 18" driver. The large, specially shaped reflex port enables the C7-SUB to achieve high sound pressure levels with minimal power compression and breathing effects. The C7-SUB cabinet is constructed from marine plywood, fitted with two pairs of steel handles, and has an impact resistant paint finish.
C7-SUB controller module switches C7-SUB 100Hz 100Hz switch & indicator If the 100Hz switch is selected (yellow 100Hz LED illuminated), the upper operating frequency of the system is reduced from 140 Hz to 100 Hz. This switch setting allows the C7-SUB to supplement TOP cabinets in full range mode (i.e. CUT not selected). The 100Hz mode may also be used with TOP cabinets in CUT mode to compensate for room resonances often found in the 125 Hz band.
Technical specifications C7-SUB system data Frequency response (5 dB)......................................................... 44 Hz ... 140 /100 Hz Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with P1200A........................................... 133 dB Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with E-PAC ............................................. 131 dB (SPLmax peak, pink noise test signal with crest factor of 4) Input level (SPLmax) ..............................................................................
MAX MAX is a 2-way floor monitor system and uses a 15/2 coaxial driver combination with a passive crossover. The driver design allows the use of a compact, low height cabinet. MAX can be driven actively or passively. Coaxially mounting the 2 HF and 15 LF drivers creates a very compact single driver whilst retaining the benefits of separate magnetic assemblies.
Only operate MAX loudspeakers with a d&b P1200A mainframe fitted with ampMAX or AMP-L controller modules or with an d&b E-PAC in linear configuration. As an alternative other high quality power amplifiers may be used, provided their output power does not exceed 500 watts into 8 ohms and an additional subsonic filter is used (25 Hz with 12 dB/octave minimum), otherwise there is a risk of damaging the loudspeaker components.
INPUT A AMP A 1+ 1 2+ 2 OUT A INPUT B AMP B 1+ 1 2+ 2 OUT B P1200A with ampMAX, passive mode INPUT A Active Crossover Lo Hi INPUT B AMP A 1+ 1 2+ 2 AMP B 1+ 1 2+ 2 P1200A with ampMAX, active mode OUT A OUT B Operation with P1200A and ampMAX module ampMAX is a two-channel controller module occupying both slots of a P1200A mainframe. The combination of P1200A and ampMAX allows MAX loudspeakers to be driven passively or in 2-way active mode.
LFC switch and indicator When MAX cabinets are used without an active subwoofer selecting LFC, Low Frequency Compensation, extends the low frequency response of MAX cabinets down to 65 Hz. The yellow LFC LED illuminates. In active mode only the channel A LFC switch is functional. IS/GR indicators These indicators give a three stage indication of ampMAX signal levels. − Input Signal Present (green) illuminates when the signal presented to the controller input exceeds a -36 dBu threshold value.
AMP-L module switches CUT switch and indicator Set to CUT, a high pass filter with a 130 Hz cut-off frequency is inserted in the controller signal path. The yellow CUT LED illuminates. MAX is now configured for use with d&b C-Series active subwoofers. REMOTE LO IMP 1234 DELAY ON REMOTE LO IMP ON ON 1 2 3 4 5 6 Operation with E-PAC To drive MAX cabinets the E-PAC has to be configured to LINEAR mode.
Dispersion characteristics Due to the conical coverage pattern of the coaxial driver design, the horizontal and vertical dispersion characteristics of MAX are largely identical (slight differences which do occur are attributable to the asymmetric cabinet shape). The diagram below shows dispersion angle versus frequency plotted using lines of equal sound pressure (isobars) at -6 dB and -12 dB. The nominal 60° dispersion angle is maintained from 4 to 10 kHz.
Technical specifications MAX system data, passive setup Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with P1200A........................................... 133 dB Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with E-PAC ............................................. 131 dB (SPLmax peak, pink noise test signal with crest factor of 4) Input level (SPLmax) ................................................................................................. +13 dBu Input level (100 dB-SPL / 1 m)....................................
MAX12 MAX12 is a 2-way floor monitor system and uses a 12/2 coaxial driver combination with a passive crossover. The driver design allows the use of a compact, low height cabinet. MAX12 can be driven actively or passively. Coaxially mounting the 2 HF and 12 LF drivers creates a very compact single driver whilst retaining the benefits of separate magnetic assemblies.
Only operate MAX12 loudspeakers with a d&b P1200A mainframe fitted with ampMAX or AMP-L controller modules or with an d&b E-PAC in linear configuration. As an alternative other high quality power amplifiers may be used, provided their output power does not exceed 500 watts into 8 ohms and an additional subsonic filter is used (25 Hz with 12 dB/octave minimum), otherwise there is a risk of damaging the loudspeaker components.
Operation with P1200A and ampMAX module INPUT A AMP A 1+ 1 2+ 2 OUT A INPUT B AMP B 1+ 1 2+ 2 OUT B P1200A with ampMAX, passive mode INPUT A Active Crossover Lo Hi INPUT B AMP A 1+ 1 2+ 2 OUT A AMP B 1+ 1 2+ 2 OUT B P1200A with ampMAX, active mode ampMAX is a two-channel controller module occupying both slots of a P1200A mainframe. The combination of P1200A and ampMAX allows MAX and MAX12 loudspeakers to be driven passively or in 2-way active mode.
LFC switch and indicator When MAX12 cabinets are used without an active subwoofer selecting LFC, Low Frequency Compensation, extends the low frequency response of MAX12 cabinets down to 75 Hz. The yellow LFC LED illuminates. In active mode only the channel A LFC switch is functional. IS/GR indicators These indicators give a three stage indication of ampMAX signal levels. − Input Signal Present (green) illuminates when the signal presented to the controller input exceeds a -36 dBu threshold value.
AMP-L module switches CUT switch and indicator Set to CUT, a high pass filter with a 130 Hz cut-off frequency is inserted in the controller signal path. The yellow CUT LED illuminates. MAX12 is now configured for use with d&b C-Series active subwoofers. REMOTE LO IMP 1234 DELAY ON REMOTE LO IMP ON ON 1 2 3 4 5 6 Operation with E-PAC To drive MAX12 cabinets the E-PAC has to be configured to LINEAR mode.
Dispersion characteristics Due to the conical coverage pattern of the coaxial driver design, the horizontal and vertical dispersion characteristics of MAX12 are largely identical (slight differences which do occur are attributable to the asymmetric cabinet shape). The diagram below shows dispersion angle versus frequency plotted using lines of equal sound pressure (isobars) at -6 dB and -12 dB.
Technical specifications MAX12 system data, passive setup Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with P1200A........................................... 132 dB Max. sound pressure (1 m, free field) with E-PAC ............................................. 130 dB (SPLmax peak, pink noise test signal with crest factor of 4) Input level (SPLmax) ................................................................................................. +13 dBu Input level (100 dB-SPL / 1 m)..................................
5. System operation 5.1. Setting up/stacking the loudspeakers To get the best out of any high quality loudspeaker system it must be properly set up. Care and attention needs to be paid to the position of loudspeaker cabinets relative to each other and also to how they are angled and aimed towards the audience. Vertical aiming The aiming of the loudspeaker in the vertical plane is responsible for the coverage all the way from the stage to the furthest listening point.
Vertically stacking the cabinets, rather than horizontally arraying them is particularly useful in deep rooms where more than one cabinet has to be used because a single cabinet has insufficient throw for the level needed at the back of the room. This helps reduce interference in the horizontal plane and gives more vertical directivity.
The parallel wired connectors fitted to all C-Series and E-Series loudspeakers allow the mainframe output signal to be looped from one cabinet to another dispensing with the need for signal distribution boxes. P1200A stereo configuration For stereo use the mainframe is fitted with two controller modules of the same type - either two modules for full range systems (E3, E9, C6, C7-TOP, C4-TOP) or two modules for active subwoofer systems (C4-SUB, C7-SUB, E18-SUB).
INPUT SIGNAL L INPUT SIGNAL R INPUT A OUT CHANNEL A C7-TOP C6 C7-TOP C6 CUT CUT 160Hz 160Hz HFA MON HFA MON OVL C6 INPUT B P1200A OUT CHANNEL A OVL ISP GR ISP MUTE INPUT A INPUT LINK INPUT LINK C6 GR MUTE MONO OUT OUT CHANNEL B 0 -6 d&b MC4 INPUT B 0 +6 -12 dB -6 +6 -12 d&b MC4 dB C6 / C6 CONTROLLER C6 C6 OUT CHANNEL B Wiring of a P1200A stereo configuration C7-TOP d&b MC4 INPUT SIGNAL INPUT A C7-TOP C7-TOP C7-SUB CUT CUT 100Hz HFA HFA OVL P1200A d&b MC4 I
5.3. Using the P1200A MONO OUT In a P1200A, the two input signals of INPUT A and INPUT B are combined, electronically balanced and buffered. This signal is then routed to the rear panel MONO OUT connector. The MONO OUT signal is generated on the mainframe input board. Therefore the signal is completely independent of the controller configuration of the mainframe (stereo, mono or mixed).
5.4. Level setting of mid/high and SUB systems With equal numbers of mid/high cabinets and corresponding active subwoofers the input gains of the TOP and SUB controllers will normally be set to the same level. This setting gives a correct sound balance and matches the characteristics of the active crossover filters in the controller modules.
6. Troubleshooting no sound POWER switch on? turn POWER switch on no yes POWER-LED ? on flashing off no TEMP LED flashing? fuses o.k.? no check wiring, replace fuse no supply voltage within limits yes yes mains voltage within limits? fan running? possibility of mainframe failure yes no PROT LED on? no yes yes PROT LED on? Clean filter foam, check air supply. Mainframe should come on again after max. 15 min. Otherwise possibility of shorted speaker cable.
7.
EU conformity of mainframes This declaration applies to the P1200A mainframe manufactured by d&b audiotechnik AG consisting of the amplifier unit including the installed controller modules. − P1200A Z2300 from version10 − Controller modules Z2301 - Z2313, all All production versions of type P1200A starting from version Z2300.000.10 are included, provided they correspond to the original technical version and have not been subject to any later design or electromechanical modifications.
d&b audiotechnik AG, Eugen-Adolff-Str.
