Renkus-Heinz STXLA/9 - Manual (Page 3)

Line Array User’s Manual Line Array User’s Manual
INTRODUCTION
Renkus-Heinz Engineering has developed unique approaches to the line array
The Isophasic Plane Wave Generator lens shapes high frequency response so that vertical arrays produce a
continuous, coherent wavefront whose curvature can be shaped to the audience area by curving the array.
The Midrange Diffraction Baffle used in the PN102/LA and PNX102/LA modules moves the woofers’ acoustic
centers closer together in the horizontal plane to eliminate “coverage collapse” in the crossover region.
The CDT1.5 CoEntrant Driver used in the STLA/9 and STXLA/9 integrates 6.5 inch carbon fiber cone and 2.5
inch voice coil titanium compression drivers into a high output wideband point source.
Line Arrays are not hard to use when you understand how they work…
The R&D behind our Line Array Systems is grounded in years of practical experience with the problems of
delivering reference reproduction for large audiences at professional SPLs. Our engineered solutions include a
simple yet highly accurate software design tool – AimWare. The flying hardware is keyed to the design software
and will easily enable you to fly your array at the height and angle determined using AimWare, and with the
proper curvature. Self-powered line array modules include all the system optimization and protection functions
needed to ensure peak performance. Externally-powered modules use RH-Engineered controllers to provde the
same high performance with centralized power amplifier racks.
… but curved vertical arrays require different design techniques…
For the past 20 years, sound reinforcement professionals have worked with horizontal arrays that use megaphone-
variant horns to deliver “[more or less] equal power to equal
angles .” Vertical arrays (so-called “line arrays”) are
designed to deliver “[more or less] equal power to equal areas .” This is the key to consistent SPL and frequency
response from the front to the rear of the audience area.
... and unfamiliar operational practices.
Over the years, system designers and operators have developed a number of signal processing techniques to
disguise and partly overcome the limitations of “constant directivity” horns: for more information on these
techniques and their limitations, see our White Papers on the True Array Principle and Reference Point Array
design. “Frequency shading,” “amplitude shading,” “system tuning,” all of these are tools of the advanced sound
system operator.
WHILE THESE TECHNIQUES ARE APPLICABLE TO LINE ARRAYS, THEY OFFER LIMITED IMPROVEMENT TO
THE LINE ARRAYS PERFORMANCE. Instead of enhancing the array’s performance they could severely degrade it.
This is because line array performance depends on all array modules receiving the same signal at the same level, in
order to produce a continuous, coherent wavefront. Coverage control is achieved by mainly by tilting and curving
the array relative to it’s hang height. Subtle amplitude shading of the bottom most loudspeakers can improve front
to back coverage consistency, but it needs to be used with care.
For more information on line array design practices, refer to pages 10 to 12 of this manual.
PLEASE take a little time to learn how to get great results with
your Renkus-Heinz Line Array System. It’s a small investment that
will generate a large payoff: more satisfied clients, more efficient
operations and better recognition for your skill as a sound
reinforcement professional.
Digital remote inclinometer – with a remote sensor in the bumper and a meter unit at ground level to ensure
precise aiming of the cluster. A typical unit for this purpose is the Schaevitz Anglestar.
Audio Analysis Software – strongly recommended but perhaps not absolutely essential. SDA EASERA, or SIA
SmaartLive, SmaartPro or Spectrafoo enable rapid and detailed analysis of the acoustical performance. EASERA
and SmaartLive offer the additional benefit of enabling you to adjust FOH EQ on the D26 Digital Controller while
observing the results in a dual-FFT window on your laptop. Consider taking a training course in using one of
these tools if you are not already competent with them – it will pay dividends in increased performance and in
your general knowledge of the principles underlying sound reinforcement.
Testing and Maintenance
Transducers:
Your Renkus-Heinz Line Array system is a precision piece of equipment that needs periodic maintenance in order
to give long and reliable service. We recommend regular testing of all cone, compression and CoEntrant drivers,
preferably using a suitable test rig and process testing software or at least a sine wave generator and careful
listening test coupled with a visual inspection.
Hardware:
There are several critical points in the cabinets. Of primary concern are:
a) The machine screws attaching the enclosure to the flying hardware
b) The screws attaching the field-replaceable horn flare to the front of the enclosure (STLA & STXLA only)
These fasteners should be regularly checked and tightened as necessary.
Cleaning:
The exterior of the cabinet and the rigging system can be cleaned with a damp cloth soaked in mild soapy water.
On no account use solvent-based cleansers , which may damage the finish of the cabinet. After cleaning, the
rigging system must be treated with a suitable lubricant (such as Scottoil FS365, a water-based lubricant with a
mixture of machine oil, surfactant and anti-rust treatment) to prevent rusting.
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