Meyer Sound Documentation

The ULTRA-X20XP loudspeaker uses a Phoenix 5-pin male connector to receive DC power and balanced audio. The input connector’s five pins, two for DC power (-, +) and three for balanced audio (+, -, Shield/ground), are clearly labeled on the ULTRA-X20XP rear panel. shown in the figure below.

ULTRA-X20XP Rear Panel with Phoenix 5-pin Male Connector

The ULTRA-X20XP uses the three-color LED on its rear panel to indicate the loudspeaker’s status.

ULTRA-X20XP LED - Limit and On/Status Indicator

Limiting (Yellow)

The ULTRA-X20XP LED lights solid yellow to indicate limiting is engaged for the high-frequency channel. The LED flashes yellow to indicate limiting is engaged for the low-frequency channels.

The ULTRA-X20XP LED turns yellow when the loudspeaker’s signal rises 2 dB above the limiting threshold, indicating that a safe, optimal level has been exceeded.

When limiting is engaged for a channel, its gain is reduced. The limiter protects the drivers and prevents signal peaks from causing excessive distortion in the amplifier, thereby preserving headroom and maintaining a smooth frequency response at high levels. When source levels return to normal below the limiter’s threshold, the LED turns green and limiting ceases.The ULTRA-X20XP performs within its acoustical specifications at normal temperatures when the ULTRA-X20XP LED is green, or when limiting is not continuous. During continuous limiting, the loudspeaker is nearing its operational limits, resulting in the following effects:

• Increasing the input level has no effect.

• Distortion increases due to clipping and nonlinear driver operation.

• The drivers are subjected to excessive heat and excursion, which compromises their life span and may eventually damage them.

Caution

If the ULTRA-X20XP loudspeakers in a system begin to limit before reaching the desired SPL, Meyer Sound recommends adding more loudspeakers to the system to achieve the desired SPL without exposing them to the hazardous conditions listed above.

ULTRA-X20XP Temperature and Limiting

The ULTRA-X20XP LED also lights solid yellow when its heat sink temperature reaches its maximum heat dissipation. Even though the ULTRA-X20XP continues to operate while the LED is yellow, the limiter threshold is lowered, causing the output level to be lowered by 3 dB, to prevent the loudspeaker from overheating. When the temperature of the heat sink cools, the LED changes from yellow to green and the limiter threshold returns to normal.

Clipping (Red)

The ULTRA-X20XP LED turns red when the loudspeaker’s input stage clips, causing the amplifier to overload. The source level must be reduced.

Caution

If the ULTRA-X20XP LED turns solid red and the loudspeaker continues to output audio, though at reduced levels, the loudspeaker’s voltage may have dropped below 25 V DC. Cease operation immediately and verify its power supply and cabling.

Each ULTRA-X20XP loudspeaker draws a maximum current of 0.9 A continuous and 3.5 A peak from its external 48 V DC power supply. The current draw for the ULTRA-X20XP is dynamic and fluctuates as operating levels change. The cabling between the ULTRA-X20XP and its external power supply adds resistance and hence causes a voltage drop at the loudspeaker. Because lower DC voltages compromise amplifier performance (peak SPL), and in some cases frequency response, use short cables to minimize the cable resistance. For long cable runs, use a large cable gauge for DC power and a separate balanced audio cable for audio. For more information, see Long Cable Runs with Separate Cable for DC Power and Audio.

Calculating the Maximum Cable Length

The maximum cable length for a ULTRA-X20XP can be calculated with the following formula:

maximum length = 2 Ω / (2 * cable resistance in Ω/ft)

For example, the maximum length of an 18 AWG cable with a resistance of 0.00636 Ω/ft is 157.2 feet [2 /(2 * 0.00636)].

Wiring ULTRA-X20XP Loudspeaker Cables with Belden 1502 Cable (or equivalent)

The most convenient method of wiring ULTRA-X20XP loudspeaker cables is with a multiconductor cable such as Belden1502, which has dedicated conductors for DC power and balanced audio in a single jacket. When wiring ULTRA-X20XP loudspeaker cables with Belden1502, use the conventions illustrated in Figure4 and described in Table3.

The thicker red and black wires (18 AWG) are for DC power. Cables can be up to 150 ft with just 1 dB of peak SPL loss.

The blue, white, and shield drain wires (shielded together) are for audio.

Belden 1502 Composite Cable

Table 3. ULTRA-X20XP Loudspeaker Cable Lengths (European)

Cable Gauge	Resistance (Ω/m)	Approximate Max. Length
2.50 mm2	0.0052	157 m
1.50 mm2	0.01076	87 m
1.00 mm2	0.02087	45 m
0.75 mm2	0.03307	27 m

Table 4. Wiring ULTRA-X20XP Loudspeaker Cables with Belden 1502

Wire	Signal	Gauge
Red	DC power (+)	18 AWG
Black	DC power (–)	18 AWG
White	Balanced audio (+)	22 AWG
Blue	Balanced audio (–)	22 AWG
Shield drain	Balanced audio, (shield)	24 AWG

Caution

Make sure the 48 V DC from the external power supply is wired directly (and only) to the 48 V DC pins on the ULTRA-X20XP loudspeaker connector, and that the polarity is observed (- to -, + to +) to avoid damaging the loudspeaker. Make sure to wire the audio pins correctly or system performance will be compromised.

Long Cable Runs with Separate Cable for DC Power and Audio

For installations where Belden 1502 is not feasible, or for installations that require cable runs longer than 150 ft, separate cables for DC power and balanced audio may be used: a large-gauge cable for DC and a high-quality, balanced audio cable for audio. The separate cables attach to the Phoenix connector at the loudspeaker, as shown in the figures below. DC power cable runs longer than 150 ft require cable gauges larger than 18 AWG; see Cable Lengths and Cable Gauges for ULTRA-X20XP Loudspeakers.

Phoenix Connector with Separate Power and Audio Cables

Separate Cables for DC Power and Balanced Audio

When installing Meyer Sound loudspeakers, the following precautions should always be observed:

The top and bottom aluminum plates for the ULTRA-X20XP/22XP/23XP cabinet include rigging points that provide two M8 x 1.25 threaded holes (on each end) for easy connection to QuickFly rigging and third-party mounting options.

ULTRA-X20XP/22XP/XP Rigging Points

Meyer Sound offers a number of rigging options that facilitate a wide variety of configurations, as described in the table below.

The ULTRA-X20XP loudspeaker can be suspended simply by using one or two M8 eye bolts. The use of two eye bolts provides the added flexibility of aiming and tilting the loudspeaker for targeted coverage.

ULTRA-X20XP with One Eye Bolt

The MPK-POLE-35MM-M20 (PN40.010.973.01) provides an easy and efficient way to mount the ULTRA-X20XP/22XP/23XP on top of a USW-112P, 750-LFC or 900-LFC. The MPK-POLE-35MM-M20 features all steel shafts that telescope from 36.5–60inches and employs a secure knob to hold it in a specific position. The upper shaft includes the removable PAS-M20-35MM with M20 Slug Adapter Sleeve as well as the PAS-M8 Adapter Sleeve.

MPK-POLE kit

The MPK-POLE features a lift assist that provides approximately 40 lb of internal gas cylinder pneumatic lift. The lower end of the pole is 35 mm in diameter and has an M20 threaded lug for stability that can be removed if necessary. In addition, the MPK-POLE-35MM-M20 kit includes an adapter for converting the bottom diameter from 35 mm to 38 mm.

The pole can be used without the lug for loudspeakers that have 35 mm cup mounts without M20 threads, or the 35 mm to 38 mm adapter may be slipped onto the bottom for loudspeakers that have 38 mm cups, as shown in the figure below.

Pole with 35 mm to 38 mm Adapter Sleeve Attached

Meyer Sound recommends that a 750-LFC (or 900-LFC) be upgraded with the 35 mm/M20 internal pole mount cup (PN 40.271.016.02) for a more stable connection, as shown in the figure below. This part is included with the MPK-POLE kit.

35 mm/M20 Internal Pole Mount Cup (PN 40.271.016.02)

The PAS-M8 Adapter is designed to securely fit into an M8 rig nut on the bottom of the ULTRA-X20XP/22XP/23XP. The separate knob on the adapter tightens it to the pole. (It can also be secured onto any other standard 35 mm pole.)

The PAS-M8 may be independently (apart from the pole) threaded into the ULTRA-X20XP/22XP/23XP, as shown in the first figure below, and then the loudspeaker/PAS-M8-35MM Adapter combination mounted onto a pole that is already secured in the subwoofer, as shown in the second figure below. The loudspeaker may be aimed horizontally, and the PAS-M8 knob tightened.

Inserting the PAS-M8 Adapter Sleeve Independently

Settling Loudspeaker/Adapter Combination onto Pole

The MYA-X20 mounting yoke (PN 40.297.450.01) suspends a single ULTRA-X20XP/22XP/23XP loudspeaker and supports a wide range of horizontal and vertical adjustments. The yoke attaches to the top and bottom of the loudspeaker using the top and bottom center M8 threaded hole, shown in the second figure below. The kit includes two M8 bolts/washers and two M8 knobs/washers. The bolts are recommended for fixed installations. A hanging clamp and steel safety cable (not included) are required to suspend the MYA-X20XP mounting yoke.

MYA-X20 Mounting Yoke

ULTRA-X20XP in the MYA-X20 Yoke Mount

In addition, the yoke may be mounted onto a 35 mm pole using the optional PAS-M8 Adapter Sleeve to facilitate easy panning and tilting.

ULTRA-X20XP in the MYA-X20 Yoke Mount on Pole using the optional PAS-M8 Adapter Sleeve (M8 nut required)

The MUB-X20 U-Bracket (PN 40.297.454.01) allows a single ULTRA-X20XP/22XP/23XP loudspeaker to be mounted on walls, ceilings, trusses and stage lips. The U-bracket’s adjustment slots allow for adjustment on how close the loudspeaker is located to the mounting surface and at what angle it will be positioned. The MUB-X20 kit includes two M8 bolts with washers and two M8 knobs with washers. The bolts are recommended for fixed installations.

MUB-X20 U-Bracket

One ULTRA-X20XP can be safely be mounted with the MUB-X20 U-bracket at a 5:1 safety factor. When mounting an ULTRA-X20XP with the MUB-X20 U-bracket, the U-bracket must be secured to the mounting surface with one of the configurations indicated in the table below.

MUB-X20 Mounting Holes

Wall-Mounting with the MUB-X20

The ULTRA-X20XP may be mounted either horizontally or vertically with the MUB-X20.

ULTRA-X20XP with MUB-X20 for Wall Mount, Horizontal

ULTRA-X20XP with MUB-X20 for Wall Mount, Vertical

Ceiling-Mounting with the MUB-X20

The ULTRA-X20XP can be mounted on a ceiling, underbalcony, or canopy area with the MUB-X20 U-bracket.

ULTRA-X20XP with MUB-X20, Ceiling Mount

Truss-Mounting with the MUB-X20

The 0.55-inch holes in the MUB-X20 support mounting an ULTRA-X20XP on a truss using two “C” or “G” hanging clamps (not included in kit).

ULTRA-X20XP Truss-Mounted using MUB-X20

Floor-mounting with the MUB-X20

The ULTRA-X20XP can be mounted to the floor or on a stage lip (for front-fill applications) with the MUB-X20 U-bracket.

ULTRA-X20XP with MUB-X20, Ceiling Mount

The MTC-X20 Top Channel kit (PN 40.297.430.01) includes a pinnable link in a channel that mounts directly to the ULTRA-X20XP/22XP/23XP rig nuts. It supports pick-up of two ULTRA-X20XP/22XP/23XP loudspeakers from a single point using the two included lock pins and 3/8-inch black shackle. The MTC-X20 Top Channel attaches to the speaker with two M8 bolts.

MTC-X20 Top Channel Kit Installed at Top of Cabinet

The versatile configuration of the channel and link, with the ability to slide the pinnable link within the channel, facilitates 13 different top pickup points. This flexibility allows for approximately +11° to –22° tilting of a loudspeaker that hangs from a single point, as described in the table below.

MTC-X20 Pickup Points

Using three versions of this kit allows the user to create a two-loudspeaker configuration with an angle of 50° between top and bottom speakers, as shown in the figure below.

Two MTC-X20 Top Channels linking speakers at a 50° angle with a third MTC-X20 channel on top for pickup point.

MTC-X20 Pin Positions and Resultant Angle Tilt for Single Point Hang

Table 7. MTC-X20 Pin Positions and Resultant Angles for Single Point Hang

Degree Tilt	Speaker Side View	MTC-X20 Hole Position	Alternate Hole Position
22° Downtilt
20° Downtilt
17° Downtilt
14° Downtilt
12° Downtilt
9° Downtilt
6° Downtilt
3° Downtilt
0°
3° Uptilt
5° Uptilt
8° Uptilt
11° Uptilt

It is possible to mount an ULTRA-X20XP/22XP/23XP beneath an ULTRA-X40/42 using one MTC-X40 and one MTC-X20. Four configurations are possible, as shown in the figure below.

Allowed Mounting Positions for ULTRA-X20 Beneath ULTRA-X40 using one MTC-X40 and one MTC-X20

The ULTRA-X20XP/22XP/23XP heat sink on the rear of the loudspeaker also has four M6 x 1-inch mounting holes. These four mounting holes may be used with third-party wall mounts to hang a single loudspeaker.

Dimensions for Spacing of Heat Sink Mounting Holes

Using the Heat Sink Mounting Holes with Example ThirdParty Bracket

The MAPP System Design Tool is a powerful, cross-platform application for accurately predicting the coverage pattern, frequency response, phase response, impulse response, and SPL capability of individual or arrayed Meyer Sound loudspeakers.

MAPP System Design Tool

Whether planning for fixed installations or for tours with multiple venues, use MAPP to accurately predict the appropriate loudspeaker deployment for each job, complete with coverage data, system delay and equalization settings, rigging information, and detailed design illustrations. MAPP’s accurate, high-resolution predictions ensure that systems will perform as intended, thereby eliminating unexpected coverage problems and minimizing onsite adjustments.

The key to the accuracy of MAPP’s predictions is MeyerSound’s exhaustive database of loudspeaker measurements. Performance predictions for each loudspeaker are based on 3-dimensional, 65,000+ 1/48th-octave-band measurements taken in the MeyerSound anechoic chamber. The extraordinary consistency between Meyer Sound loudspeakers guarantees that predictions from MAPP will closely match their actual performance.

MAPP software allows for configuration of MeyerSound loudspeaker systems and definition of the environment in which they operate, including air temperature, pressure, humidity, and the location of prediction surfaces. Importing both CAD (.DXF) and Sketchup (.SKP) files containing detailed venue information to act as an anchor model to the prediction surfaces and a visual aid to facilitate prediction data interpretation is also possible.

MAPP Capabilities

With MAPP, you can:

• Simulate different loudspeaker configurations to refine system designs and determine the best coverage for intended audience areas

• Model loudspeaker interactions to locate constructive and destructive interferences so that loudspeakers can be re-aimed and repositioned as necessary

• Place microphones anywhere in the Model View space and predict loudspeaker frequency response, phase response, and sound pressure levels at each microphone position

• Determine delay settings for fill loudspeakers using the Inverse Fast Fourier Transform and phase response feature

• Preview the results of signal processing to determine optimum settings for the best system response

• Automatically calculate load information for arrays to determine necessary minimum rigging capacity, front-to-back weight distribution, and center of gravity location

• Generate and export system images and system PDF reports for client presentations

• Synchronize GALAXY processor output channel settings in real-time with virtual or real GALAXY units, allowing in-the-field changes to be predicted during system alignments.

The Galileo GALAXY Network Platform is a sophisticated loudspeaker management tool for controlling all MeyerSound speaker types. The GALAXY loudspeaker processor extends a high level of audio control in driving and aligning loudspeaker systems with multiple zones. It provides a powerful tool set for corrective equalization (EQ) and creative fine-tuning for a full range of applications from touring to cinema.

Users can readily program the GALAXY processor using Compass software running on a host computer or via the Compass Go application for the iPad. Connecting MAPP to the GALAXY processor will also allow the user to push output channel settings created in MAPP as a starting point. Compass Control Software includes custom-designed settings for each family of speakers, as well as to integrate families together. For example, the Product Integration feature matches the phase characteristics between Meyer speaker families to ensure the most coherent summation.

Processing tools for inputs and outputs include delay, parametric EQ and U-Shaping EQ. Output processing also includes polarity reversal, Low-Mid Beam Control (LMBC), atmospheric correction, and All Pass filters.

The built-in summing and delay matrices allow a user to easily assign gain and delay values, respectively, at each cross point. This capability greatly facilitates using one loudspeaker to satisfy multiple purposes.

Front panel controls let a user intuitively and quickly operate a GALAXY processor without a computer during live use.

The GALAXY 408, GALAXY 816 and GALAXY 816-AES3 processor versions have the same audio processing capability with different I/O. See www.meyersound.com to locate their datasheets for more information.

Weather Protection is strongly recommended for all permanent outdoor installations where loudspeakers are directly exposed to the elements. This includes desert and semi-arid climates, where protection against dust and sand is important, and where infrequent rainstorms can contribute to deterioration of loudspeaker components.

Weather Protection is also recommended when the loudspeakers are sheltered from direct exposure to precipitation but are nevertheless exposed to prolonged high humidity, fog or mist. Examples would be installations on covered outdoor terraces or pavilions

Weather Protection is further advisable for portable or touring systems when any significant outdoor use is anticipated. Even though standard procedures may call for using external protective measures, these are often not implemented in time to prevent moisture intrusions that could lead to premature performance degradation of the loudspeaker.

The wear and tear on a loudspeaker will vary significantly with different climatic conditions. For example, a weather protected loudspeaker installed in a sunlight-exposed location on an ocean pier will experience much harsher conditions than a loudspeaker in a similar installation that is shaded by trees and exposed only to rainfall. The constant exposure to direct UV radiation and salt air environment will cause a loudspeaker to wear more quickly than one with partial UV shielding and exposed only to freshwater moisture.

Wear can eventually affect the performance of the loudspeaker. It also affects aesthetics. For example, in salt air environments, the exterior grille can quickly show signs of oxidation, causing unsightly discoloration.

Apart from selecting suitable weather protection, the progress of wear and tear on the loudspeaker can be slowed by a regular schedule of inspection and cleaning. This maintenance is particularly necessary in harsh environments. Inspection and cleaning should include routine removal of any visible oxidation or environmental particulates, as these can accelerate metal corrosion or decay of the cabinet. If installed loudspeakers are not in use for an extended period, exterior protection or temporary removal and storage of the loudspeakers should be considered.

There are several benefits to selecting the Meyer Sound Weather Protection option:

Meyer Sound assumes normal and accepted installation practices are used when installing Meyer Sound Loudspeakers outdoors. Deviation from such practices may cause weather protection to be ineffective and void the warranty for the loudspeaker.

Examples of unacceptable and acceptable installation practices include:

If in doubt about an installation method, contact Meyer Sound Technical Support for assistance.

Always discuss the environmental conditions of your Meyer Sound installation with your Sales Manager, and verify the availability of Weather Protection for your selected loudspeaker models. The Sales Manager, together with Technical Support, will verify the appropriate level of weather protection for the loudspeakers and related rigging hardware.

IP stands for "Ingress Protection." The current format for expressing an IP rating is a 2-digit code. The first digit of an IP rating represents protection from solid objects. The second digit of an IP rating represents protection from water or moisture. The table below provides a chart of IP ratings and the corresponding definitions of the rating.