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Line-arrays have radically transformed the industry's approach to live concert production over the past 15 years. S&S takes a look at some of the best line-arrays to emerge in recent times.

JBL

Introduced to market in 2000, JBL's Vertec line-array model range has gone on to become one of the company's best sellers.

Vertec is a three-way enclosure system that was conceived and designed as a direct rival to L-Acoustics' all-conquering V-DOSC line-array. Vertec arrays have been used at a number of high-profile events in recent times including Live Earth gigs in Brazil and the US.

Boasting a high-output and a compact form, the array benefits from a number of proprietary technologies, including JBL's RBI (radiation boundary integrator), an innovative acoustic element, which is designed to integrate the midrange and high frequency waveforms in a multi-way system, audibly and measurably improving the box's coverage and frequency response characteristics.

Each Vertec enclosure includes two 15in low frequency transducers, four 8in mid-frequency transducers and three compression drivers coupled to JBL's high frequency waveguide. The enclosure is constructed from composite materials with aluminium baffle braces for maximum inertial grounding. When stacked length-ways, JBL claims the enclosures will fit two-high in most standard tour transportation configurations.

JBL recently updated two stalwarts of the Vertec range. The compact VT4887A full range high directivity line array element and the accompanying VT4881A single 18in arrayable subwoofer supersede the VT4887 and VT4881 respectively.

The VT4887A boasts an extended low-frequency response to 55 Hz thanks to the inclusion of an eight-inch woofer. JBL claims an additional 2dB of output and one-third octave of low-frequency extension is available compared to the VT4887. The model also incorporates an optimised mid/high frequency network and high frequency elements.

Weighing around 30kg, the VT4887A is suitable for use in multi-box arrays, as a downfill element in main arrays, or as extended-range fill speaker. Dual NL-8 and NL-4 input connectors provide connectivity options. Preconfigured to accept a JBL Drive-Pack amp module, the VT4887A enclosure includes standard mechanical and electrical fittings to receive the DP-2 electronics package.

Middle East distributors: Gajria (Bahrain); Audio Technology (Egpyt); Gi Rho Ma (Jordan); Romco Trading (Kuwait); AudioPro (Lebanon); Tunes Trading (Oman); Techno Q (Qatar); Halwani AV (KSA); GSL Professional (UAE); BIG (Oman).

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