Adding Low-frequency Control
An ULTRA-X40/42 loudspeaker system can be deployed with Meyer Sound self-powered low-frequency control elements (see [→ _bookmark46]Table 4). These subwoofers achieve very low-frequency responses and extend the system response appreciably, increasing the overall acoustic power of the system in the lowest frequencies.
The ideal ratio of ULTRA-X40/42 loudspeakers to low-frequency control element depends on the following variables:
Subwoofer model
System configuration
Frequency content of source material
Headroom required for low frequencies
For most applications, the ratios in the table below should yield good results.
Subwoofer | Frequency Response | Recommended Ratio (Number of ULTRA-X40/42s per Subwoofer) |
|---|---|---|
USW-210P | 32–123 Hz ±4 dB | 1:1 for most applications 1:2 for applications requiring more low end |
750-LFC | 37–110 Hz ±4 dB | 1:1 for most applications |
900-LFC | 32–115 Hz ±4 dB | 2:1 for most applications 1:1 for applications requiring extreme low end |
1100-LFC | 30–85 Hz ±4 dB | 4:1 for most applications |
Adding Subwoofers by Daisy-chaining
Full-range signals can be connected directly to
Meyer Sound self-powered loudspeakers because the loudspeakers have built-in active crossovers. Subwoofers can be added to an ULTRA-X40/42 system by simply daisy-chaining them to the ULTRA-X40/42 loudspeakers.
To daisy-chain the suggested number of ULTRA-X40/42 loudspeakers for your subwoofer (see Table 1).
Connect the source signal to the Input of the first ULTRA-X40/42, then connect the Loop output of the first ULTRA-X40/42 to the Input of the second ULTRA-X40/42 (and so forth).
Connect the Loop output of the last ULTRA-X40/42 in the chain to the subwoofer Input.
When ULTRA-X40/42 loudspeakers are coplanar, or they are very close together, about four to six feet like in the case of pole mounting, the phase response will work well in the area of interaction and the result will be a fairly flat frequency response. However, the response will show an increase in the 60–200 Hz range where the response of the loudspeakers overlaps.
Note
If the subwoofer’s Limit LEDs begin to light before reaching the required SPL, consider adding more subwoofers to meet the SPL requirements without exposing the drivers to excessive heat and excursion.
Using a Processor
In larger systems when individual control for theULTRA-X40/42 and subwoofers are needed or desired, if the ULTRA-X40/42 loudspeakers and subwoofer are more than six feet apart, or if a delay is required between them, use a measurement system like Meyer Sound’s SIM to determine appropriate delay and polarity settings.
Caution
Make sure the source signal is sufficient to drive the total load impedance of the daisy-chained loudspeakers (see Calculating Load Impedance for Looped Audio Signals).
Tip
MAPP can be used to accurately predict the appropriate loudspeaker deployment and subwoofer integration for loudspeaker systems, complete with coverage data, system delay and equalization settings, rigging information, and detailed design illustrations. For more information, see MAPP System Design Tool.