al-Class Scalable Line Arrays

al-Class Downloads 

The al-Class line array elements benefit from a transducer configuration that is topologically identical from the al-4 to the al-12 elements, which provides exceptional pattern control, while also making it easy to scale up and down, or mix different al-Class models together.

Continuos Source Topology = Consistent Horizontal Performance

The subcompact two-way al-4 element features dual 4-inch Kevlar/ Neodymium mid-range drivers flanking a 1-inch exit neodymium compression driver with Truextent beryllium diaphragm mounted on a wave shaping form with CST™ technology. The al-4’s mid-range units are outfitted with VUE’s unique lateral acoustic shade modules that acoustically “move” the drivers closer together in order to optimize directivity of the woofers at their upper operating range for a smooth transition over the entire coverage area.

The three-way al-8 element doubles the al-4’s MF/HF section for a total of four mid-range units and two beryllium compression drivers, mounted on a scaled wave shaping form with CST™ technology. The al-8 then adds dual 8-inch woofers for greater LF frequency extension and output.

The three-way al-12 element triples the al-4’s MF/HF section in topology, yet it features newly developed transducers optimized for more output with larger voice coils, new surrounds, improved cone architecture, and more. al-12 encompasses a total of six mid-range units and two beryllium compression drivers mounted on a scaled-up wave shaping form with CST™ technology. The al-12 then adds brand new dual 12-inch woofers for even greater LF frequency extension and output.

The transducers are arranged for perfect symmetry from L to R. This makes scaling up or down as simple as adding or removing elements. What’s more, because the al-Class elements share virtually identical MF/HF section topology, it’s easy to hang al-4 arrays beneath al-8 arrays, and al-8 arrays beneath al-12 arrays for near field coverage that maintains a consistent voicing while minimizing low-frequency buildup.

Bringing a whole new level of versatility and sound quality to mainstream line array applications, VUE’s al-Class line array systems feature state-of-the-art transducers–including VUE’s unique beryllium compression drivers–as well as intelligent system electronics, and onboard SystemVUE networking.

VUE’s precision compression driver with Truextent beryllium dome for unparalleled HF performance

All this technology is packed into three tightly- integrated electroacoustic line array systems that are made up of the al-Class acoustic elements and VUEDrive™ System Engines, which provide power, processing and SystemVUE networking capabilities optimized for each array.

Three line arrays make up the al-Class family. The subcompact al-4, the midsize al-8, and large-format al-12 all benefit from VUE’s most advanced technologies and designs, including a perfectly identical transducer topology that provides exceptional coverage control and unmatched sound field consistency.

The al-Class acoustic elements are mated to the VUEDrive Systems Engines to form a complete line array system. The Systems Engines provide a highly-sophisticated, system optimized DSP/amplifier architecture that allows each individual component–from transducers, amplifiers and enclosures, all the way out to the SystemVUE software itself–to work in perfect harmony for precise control and easy operation. In fact, VUE’s DSP technology is so powerful that it dramatically improves “out -of-the-box” performance while streamlining setup. Operators simply assemble the array, then select the appropriate array configuration from the SystemVUE software. Minimal EQ or tweaking is required and the operator is free to concentrate on creating the perfect mix.

The sophisticated combination of cutting- edge transducer technology, real-world cabinet design, and next generation integrated system electronics allow al-Class to deliver unprecedented sound quality, coverage control and scalability for applications ranging from corporate events to live concerts and tours, fixed theater installations, houses of worship, and much more.

Blocking the VUE

al-Class Line Array Systems are typically deployed in standard blocks built around the VUEDrive engines capabilities. A standard al-4 block includes eight al-4 acoustic elements and a single V4 Systems Engine. A standard al-8 block includes four al-8 acoustic elements and a single V6 Systems Engine. A standard al-12 block includes two al-12 acoustic elements and a single V3.  Multiple blocks can be easily combined for customer specific systems. SystemVUE software allows for easy networking and optimization for the smallest to most expansive systems.

For applications where extended low frequency is required, the al-Class line array systems are fully compatible with a variety of VUE subwoofers. Flexible options allow flying or ground stacking, while two under-hang fly bars allow the al-4, al-8 and al-12 arrays to be combined for improved near field coverage.