InfoComm 2012: JBL unveils CBT 200LA-1 loudspeaker

Harman’s JBL Professional is introducing the CBT 200LA-1, the newest and tallest model in the CBT Series of constant directivity column loudspeakers, at the InfoComm 2012 show in Las Vegas.

At a height of 200cm (6.6 feet) tall, the new array, which is made up of 32 drivers (each measuring 50 mm/2 inches) is designed to provide consistent pattern control over a wider bandwidth than is possible with shorter columns or fewer drivers. Vertical pattern coverage is adjustable to either 15 or 30 degrees to match the architectural characteristics of a range of venues, and a variety of mounting heights. Additionally, an asymmetrical progressive-gradient coverage mode can be selected, which makes the speaker function in a similar fashion to the CBT 70J; directing more sound toward the far areas of the listening space to help reduce variation in SPL levels from front to back throughout the area.

“In addition to using patented CBT technology to provide constant directivity coverage so that listeners throughout the space hear the same sound character everywhere, the 6-1/2 foot height of the CBT 200LA-1 allows this unobtrusive column speaker to control down to a particularly low frequency for very clear sound, which is important when you want to get well-controlled broadband coverage over a defined listening space,” commented Rick Kamlet, senior marketing manager, Commercial Installed Sound, JBL Professional.

At a width of 98 mm/3.8 inches the array is designed to fit visually into a wide range of applications. Dynamic Sonic-Guard is aimed at providing low audibility overload protection. A swivel/tilt wall bracket is included, and MTC-FM flush-mount wall brackets are also available.

The speakers can be operated at direct low impedance or from a built-in 70V/100V transformer (240 Watts) while a speech voicing contour switch raises mid-range sensitivity and increases maximum mid-range SPL by 4 dB. The CBT Series speakers are designed for installation in both indoor and outdoor locations, with the IP-55 water rating allowing the speakers to be used for projecting distances outdoors.

“The CBT 200LA-1 provides the pattern control you would typically get from a constant directivity horn having a mouth that is two meters tall,” Kamlet added, “except without the 15 to 20-foot depth that would be needed for this degree of pattern control and with lower distortion, higher output, control over coverage angle, full-range frequency response, and an asymmetrical ‘progressive gradient’ coverage capability which sends more sound toward the far areas of the space.”

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