Master Audio launches full-range self-powered compact column array

In Product Newsby tfwm

Master Audio has announced the launch of the JK46A, the engineering led, specialist PA company’s first self-powered column array loudspeaker.

A professional high-performance, light-weight 4×6” active column array loudspeaker system, the JK46A is a fully optimised electronic and acoustic design, featuring custom-matched system components, including carbon-fibre coned neodymium drivers, audiophile specified class-D power amplification and 48-bit programmable DSP control. The latest addition to the performance / cost competitive Joker series, the JK46A introduces a revolutionary concept to small to medium fixed installation and mobile reinforcement sectors, with its amazing LF response – down to 50Hz – enabling a compact column array to be deployed in a far wider range of applications and environments than would normally be the case.

Exceptional full frequency, high quality sound reproduction was the primary design objective, as Master Audio’s chief acoustics engineer, Natàlia Milán, explains: “We set ourselves a major challenge in achieving this level of performance, especially low frequency performance, from a column array configuration, to out perform a classic 12”+HF driver system.”

Master Audio’s design team has taken every care in the development of the JK46A, meticulously matching component specifications and performance, to achieve a unique level of acoustical and digital engineering synthesis. The original Master Audio asymmetric horn, with PETP membrane compression driver, is custom configured with the four 6” carbon-fibre coned neodymium magnet drivers, to provide a tightly controlled directivity, with uniform front-to-back audience coverage. The very latest 700W (1400W peak) class-D power amplifier circuit design provides the cabinet with a remarkable program level of 125dB SPL (128dB Peak). The integral DSP control – accessed from the rear mounted control panel with LCD screen – makes system set up simple, with up to 40m delay-line management and rapid selection of pre-set corrective EQs, while performing sophisticated speaker management with a series of unique compression algorithms. The LCD screen provides comprehensive information about input and output levels, system status and amplifier temperature.

The same level of care and attention has gone into construction of the highly robust wear resistant cabinet. Manufactured from high quality plywood with high resistant Polyurea paint finish, the cabinet features and a wide variety of fixings and accessories for quick, easy and versatile installation. Uniquely for a column array, the performance of the JK46A is such that it offers an exceptionally compact and portable, high performance full range PA system for small-scale touring, providing the kind of sound coverage that would normally require a far larger top / mid cab and sub bass system. “Small performers who have to carry their own equipment are going to be delighted with the JK46A,” says Daniel Bartolomé, Master Audio’s Product Application Engineer. It’s extremely rare to find performance with this speaker type, and never at this price point. The JK46A widens the application possibilities of column systems well beyond the usual small and highly specialist installation environments.”

As with all Master Audio Joker series designs, the JK46A has been engineered to provide exceptional levels of performance at a highly competitive price point, with a suggested retail price of 1.387€ per unit. The JK46A is available immediately. With pre-orders in excess of the initial production run, the second run is already coming off the line.

More info: www.master-audio.com/JK46A