The al-8 Compact Line Array System picks up where the al-4 Subcompact Line Array System leaves off. The al-8 ‘Acoustic Linearity’ element utilizes VUE’s most advanced technologies including CST™ to extract exceptional performance from its compact design. Innovative technologies such as beryllium compression drivers, Kevlar/Neo transducers, precision amplification and DSP, and onboard SystemVUE networking allow the highly scalable al-8 to deliver unprecedented performance to a broad range of mid-sized sound reinforcement applications.
FEATURES:
- Each al-8 Compact Line Array System “block” includes
four al-8 Acoustic Elements and a single VUEDrive™ V6 Systems Engine - Scalable by adding or removing other al-Class acoustic elements,
or combining multiple al-8 blocks - Onboard SystemVUE™ networking
- Integrated flying hardware allows quick assembly of arrays of up to 16 elements per flybar
- Optional flying and transport accessories available
- The al-8 can be used as elements in complex CST™ Hybrid Array along with al-12’s and al-4’s
al-8S Stadium Element
The al-8S Stadium Element is a permanent installation solution with great similarities to the standard al-8. The al-8S features an alternative HF driver and removes the side handles as they are not needed for permanent installation. For details please download the al-8S data sheet.
Blocking The VUE
The al-8 Line Array System is made up of the al-8 Acoustic Element and rack-mount VUEDrive™ V6 Systems Engine. The V6 combines a highly sophisticated DSP architecture with enough amplifier power to tri-amp up to four al-8 acoustic elements. In addition, onboard SystemVUE networking capabilities allow easy assembly of sophisticated networks with remote management and control available via the intuitive SystemVUE™ control software.
For applications where extended low-frequency is required, the al-8 can be used with the al-8SB integrated flyable subwoofer and is fully compatibility with a variety of other VUE subwoofers. Flexible options allow flying, or ground stacking. All al-Class elements are DANTE Enabled.
Easy Assembly and Instant Results
The al-8 Line Array System benefits from a highly sophisticated DSP architecture that allows each individual component-from transducers, amplifiers and cabinets, all the way out to the SystemVUE software itself–to work in perfect harmony for precise control and easy operation. In fact, the technology is so smart, that al-8 designers were able to pre-load the V6 Systems Engine with a library presets that dramatically improve ‘out -of-the-box’ performance while streamlining setup. Operators simply assemble the array, select the desired preset from the SystemVUE software, then align the physical placement. Minimal EQ or tweaking is required and the operator is free to concentrate on creating the perfect mix.
CST ™ Technology
Definition of Topology: “The study of geometric properties and spatial relations unaffected by the continuous change of shape or size of figures.”
CST™ re-defines the concept of system ‘Scalability’. Acoustic Linearity Architecture paired with CST™ allows the use of multiple different al-Class elements together in an array without sacrificing the elemental line-array theory basics, resulting in a coherent and symmetrical line-source from the largest cabinet at the top of the array, to the smallest under-hung elements. The family of al-Class products feature three line array elements for maximum flexibility in sound design, inventory profitability, unbeatable coherency. Furthermore, the VUE al-Class Line Arrays support VUEPoint™ Beam Forming to further achieve unsurpassable performance and coverage control in any given room configuration.
VUE’S ACOUSTIC LINEARITY WITH CST™ ANOINTS VUE’S al-CLASS AS THE BENCHMARK IN COMPLETE LINE ARRAY SOLUTIONS
al-Class Combination Arrays
The VUE al-Class line arrays are the only system that can combine ultra-compact (al-4), medium format (al-8) and large-format (al-12) enclosures into a single coherent array without compromising the mid- and high-frequency coherency. This design feature enables a level of unparalleled system versatility. One can create virtually seamless arrays fully optimized for every parameter including coverage, sound pressure level, size and weight. This also expands the capitalization of a rental inventory for all portable applications.
To understand the latest developments in line array technology? Download the ACOUSTIC LINEARITY White Paper.
VUEDrive™ V6
V6 Systems Engine
- LF 2500 W x 2 sine wave – MF 800 W x 2 sine wave – HF 800 W x 2 sine wave
- 64-bit digital processing including EQ, time alignment, crossover management, and speaker protection
- Ultra-premium converters provide 118 dB of dynamic range
- Input Delay up to 2 seconds per channel
- LCD display for easy user interface (non LCD version available for fixed installation)
- Compatible with SystemVUE control and monitoring software for Mac or PC
- Maximum input level of +23 dBu for the most demanding applications
- Latency < 1ms (Typical 640 microseconds)
- Compact 2U rack-mount chassis
Inside each V6 chassis are six dedicated amplifiers supplying two channels at 2500 W each for the low frequency, four channels at 800 W each for the mid frequency and high frequency sections. And that’s clean, pure sine wave power rather than the “peak burst” measurement typically used in completive products.
In addition to amplification, the V6 Systems Engine also handles all system processing and management functions, including speaker protection as well as system-optimized alignment of EQ, time and crossover functions. Rear panel signal connections include dual XLR and AES/EBU inputs, with a pair of NL8 connectors for loudspeaker outputs.
Finally, the V6 Systems Engine provides full networking capabilities via SystemVUE software for Mac and PC, as well as full compatibility with the VUEPoint beam steering technology. Learn more about the VUEDrive™ System Engines.
Transducers
The mid-range units are outfitted with VUE’s unique lateral acoustic shade modules that acoustically “moves” the drivers closer together to optimize directivity of the woofers at their upper operating range for a smooth transition over the entire coverage area.
For the high frequency, the al-8 utilizes a pair of 1-inch exit, neodymium compression drivers with Truextent® beryllium diaphragms. Beryllium technology allows the compression driver to deliver dramatic improvements in HF extension and response linearity that simply cannot be matched by traditional aluminum or titanium designs.
The beryllium compression drivers are mounted to a tightly coupled, precision waveguide with Continuous Source Topology™ that reduces acoustic lobing and provides ideal line array consistency.
All transducers are housed in a rugged birch plywood enclosure protected by a 12-step Dura-Coat LX finish. Integrated flying hardware allows quick assembly of arrays of up to 16 elements per flybar. Rear panel I/O includes NL8 Input and Loop connections for easy daisy-chaining of line array elements. Flexible rigging options allow flying and ground stacking.
al-8 Woofer
- VUE 4-inch Neo Kevlar MF driver
- VUE Be-1.3inch-Dome-Back
- VUE’s 1-inch exit compression driver with Truextent® beryllium diaphragm
- VUE Acoustic Shade
Diagrams
Downloads
Downloads
VUE Software & Support page for the latest SystemVUE and EASE Focus Software downloads
Direct link for al-8 Datasheet
Download page for al-8 GLL for EASE & EASE Focus 2.5
al-8 BGV certification for al-8 (PDF)
al-8-fb Fly Bar (RevA) Detailed Drawing (PDF)
al-8-ufb Combo Array Adaptor (RevA) Detailed Drawing (DXF)
al-8-ufb Combo Array Adaptor (RevA) Detailed Drawing (PDF)
Beryllium
The Truextent® Beryllium Advantage
h-Class full range systems and al-Class line arrays all employ VUE-designed compression drivers that feature a Truextent® beryllium diaphragm at their core. Beryllium outperforms both aluminum and titanium thanks to an extremely high stiffness-to-mass ratio, which dramatically reduces mechanical deformation (breakup) and shifts resonant frequencies outside the audible range. The net result is a more defined HF at much higher SPLs than more conventional materials.
Read more about the advantages of Truextent beryllium
Specifications
| SPECIFICATIONS | al-8 | 2 x al-8 & V6 |
|---|---|---|
| DESCRIPTION | Compact Line Array Element | Compact Line Array System |
| ACOUSTIC DATA | ||
| Frequency Response (+-2.5 dB) | 75 Hz to 18 kHz | 70 Hz to 18 kHz |
| Frequency Range (-10 dB) | 50 Hz – 26 kHz | 50 Hz – 26 kHz |
| Sensitivity (1W/1m) | 100 dB SPL | 103 dB SPL |
| Power Long Term Sine Wave Before Protection LF: Before Protection MF: Before Protection HF: |
– 700 watts 275 watts 56 watts |
– 1400 watts 550 watts 224 watts |
| Power Burst (6 dB Crest before clip) LF: MF: HF: |
– 2000 watts 800 watts 800 watts |
– 4000 watts 1600 watts 800 watts |
| Max Peak SPL † Measured (band limited pink noise 6 dB crest factor) Calculated (Broadband Sensitivity + Max Power) | – 125 dB SPL136 dB SPL |
– 131 dB SPL141 dB SPL |
| Max SPL Long Term (AVG SPL @1M before protection band limited pink noise) | 119 dB SPL | 125 dB SPL |
| Coverage Horizontal | 90 degrees – 6 dB | 90 degrees – 6 dB |
| Coverage Vertical | 10 degrees – 6 dB | Dependent on array configuration |
| TRANSDUCER DATA | ||
| LF Driver Description | Two 8-inch drivers, 3-inch voice coils, neodymium magnets | |
| MF Driver Description | Four 4-inch drivers, Kevlar cones, isobutylene isoprene rubber surrounds, neodymium magnets | |
| HF Driver Description | Two 1-inch exit 34 mm voice coil, Pure Truextent® beryllium diaphragm | |
| Impedance | 8/8/8 Ω (L/M/H) | 4/4/4 Ωs net 2x 8/8/8 Ω |
| PHYSICAL DATA | ||
| Rigging: | Three-point rigging system, angles between elements: 0° to 10° in 1° steps | |
| Connectors | Neutrik NL8 Speakon In and Loop | |
| Cabinet Material | Multi-ply birch hardwood | |
| Cabinet Surface | Dura-Coat LX – an elastomer synthetic resin chemical coating | |
| Handles | Side Recessed & Rear Metal | |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 10.32 x 32.95 x 18.66 in [34.45 wide with fly pins] (260 x 837 x 474 mm [875mm wide with fly pins]) | |
| Weight (per element) | Net: 78.2 lbs (35.47 kg) / Shipped: 92.6 lbs (42 kg) | |
| ACCESSORIES | ||
| al-8FB | Fly bar for al-8 acoustic elements | |
| al-8-ufb | Transition fly bar from al-8’s to al-4’s | |
| al-8-pin4x | Extra al-8 Fly Pins (set of four pins) | |
| al-8-4xtr | Transport rack for up to 4 x al-8 acoustic elements | |
| † Measured Max SPL is recommended for system design purposes and represents the average peak output before protection and after power compression. In accordance with common industry practice, calculated data is provided for comparison purposes, and is a theoretical calculation. | ||
EASE Focus
EASE Focus Acoustic Modeling Software
EASE Focus 2 is a three-dimensional, acoustic simulation software for the configuration and modeling of line array systems, digitally steered array and conventional loudspeakers. EASE Focus 2 is free for the VUE has licensed the al-4, al-8 and h-class family of products to for use in EASE Focus 2.0 and above.
Great efforts have been made to keep EASE Focus intuitive and easy-to-use while introducing three- dimensional coordinates and many new features. It can be considered a tool for both the end user, who needs to set up the sound system for a show, as well as for the R&D engineer, who is interested in the acoustic qualities of the array design. EASE Focus is the optimal tool for easy and quick prediction of the sound system performance in a given venue.
EASE Focus 2 is also the first of AFMG’s software packages that incorporates the new FIRmaker technology. Using advanced numerical algorithms, AFMG FIRmaker allows calculating specific FIR filters for line arrays and column loudspeakers. These FIR filters are derived based on the layout of the venue and the design goals specified by the user. Compared to conventional beam-steering FIRmaker optimization does not require any manual aiming.
EASE Focus 2.5 includes the following features:
- 3D modeling of direct sound, displayed in horizontal and vertical cutting planes.
- Support for EASE GLL files and data exchange with EASE and other AFMG software packages.
- Export your full array configuration for further use in EASE.
- Capability to use multiple sound sources, both line array systems and regular loudspeakers, in a single project.
- Support for FIRmaker / VUEPoint digitally steered arrays and other configurable loudspeakers; this requires an additional proprietary DLL that can provide e.g. beam steering filters.
- Virtual equalizer for tuning a line array in the simulation.
- Full frequency range from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
- High accuracy due to high internal data resolution and GLL data format. See AFMG white papers and AES articles for details.
- Many helpful features for pre-production and on-site setup, e.g. extensive PDF-reports, additional rigging details, etc.
- Support for multiple languages: German, English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, French
Resources: AFMG Focus Download Page: focus.afmg.eu/index.php/fc-downloads-en.html Download Page for EASE Focus 2 Manual (pdf): vue-audiotechnik.com/vue-package/ease-focus-2-5-manual-pdf Direct Link to Download EASE Focus 2.5.10 - Installer for the EASE Focus 2 Acoustic Modeling Software (Program and Demo Data) Size: 23 MB: EASE Focus 2.5.10 EASE Focus 2 runs on Microsoft Windows XP or higher (Tested W7, W8). Microsoft Windows XP: Please install Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 or higher. Currently, there is no version of EASE Focus 2 available for the the OS X platform. Focus can be run on OS-X using any supported Windows version running in a virtual machine using Parallels or VMware Fusion or directly with Bootcamp. VUE GLL Files for Ease FOCUS 2.5 VUE System Definition Files for use in EASE Focus: vue-audiotechnik.com/vue-package/vue-system-definition-files-glls-single-zip-for-ease-focus/ How to install System Definition Files in EASE Focus 2.5:
- Unpack the ZIP archive to a temporary directory.
- From within EASE Focus 2 import the data files of your choice into the local database by means of the Import System Definition command from the Edit menu (Ctrl+I).
- Delete the files in your temporary folder from 1.
al-8SB Subwoofer
Link for full information on the al-8SB
3x al-8-sb sub woofers in hanging cardioid array along with al-8 &al-8ufb & al-4 combo array
al-8FB & al-8UFB
al-8-xtr
Alignarray Laser
More information vue-audiotechnik.com/alignarray/