VUE Audiotechnik releases al-8 compact line array system

Following a successful preview at InfoComm last month, VUE Audiotechnik has unveiled its new al-8 compact line array system.

The al-8 is the second member of VUE’s al-Class, and joins the al-4 Subcompact Line Array System introduced earlier this year. It features beryllium compression drivers, kevlar/neodymium transducers, onboard networking, and full compatibility with VUEPoint beam steering technology.

Components include flying, transport and handling accessories, an al-8 acoustic element and a rack-mount V6 Systems Engine, which provides system amplification, DSP and networking capabilities via the SystemVUE control software.

The al-8 acoustic element houses a pair of proprietary eight-inch LF transducers with three-inch voice coils for improved thermal performance. The LF transducers flank four four-inch kevlar/neodymium mid-range units equipped with VUE’s lateral acoustic shades. High frequencies are delivered by a pair of neodymium compression drivers with Truextent beryllium diaphragms for extended high frequency response beyond 25kHz.

All transducers are situated within a birch plywood enclosure protected by a 12-step Dura-Coat LX finish. Integrated flying hardware allows for the quick assembly of arrays of up to 16 elements per flybar. Rear panel I/O includes a pair of NL8 connectors configured to allow discrete access to each compression driver.

The 2U rack-mount V6 Systems Engine will tri-amp up to four al-8 acoustic elements, and it also offers a 64-bit DSP engine that handles all management functions, including speaker protection, system-optimised alignment of EQ, time and crossover, as well as SystemVUE network connectivity.

"The al-8 is a significant step toward offering a complete tool box of solutions that combine class-leading performance, consistent sonic character, and exceptional value," explained Jeff Taylor, VUE’s head of North American sales. "Like the al-4, the al-8 demonstrates VUE’s commitment to leveraging advanced technologies in order to deliver systems that integrate seamlessly into a broad range of environments, while providing a more effortless and enjoyable user experience overall."

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