The main focus in the development of the LR14B was obtaining the highest efficiency in "full-space" conditions, within the weight/size parameters set by the line-array application. The line-array specific "full-space" flown condition brings a substantial reduction (-3dB) of output, versus a "half-space" stacked bass application. In order to achieve a far higher efficiency than the conventional front-loading arrangement, the long-excursion 12" drivers are double-vented, double-tuned in a band-pass loading configuration. The resulting true 100dB (1W/1m, full bandwidth 46-200Hz)) efficiency, in combination with the 3200W. power handling, brings a 135dB peak SPL from a very compact cabinet, say Alcons.
As the LR14B is primarily designed to be used in portable (mainly flown) applications, special attention has also been paid to the weight of the system; The cabinet is made of 15mm/0.6in Birch wood with very clever bracing for a lightweight yet rigid construction. The drivers are two long-excursion 12" woofers with Neodymium magnet structures and low distortion/low power-compression design. This results in a total weight of 34kg (75lb), including all flying hardware, say Alcons.
The integrated flying system doesn't have any separate/loose parts and is certified to a very high rating of 24 cabinets with safety-ratio 7:1. In stacked configuration, the two-side usable flying hardware of the LR14B forms a stable foundation for stacked LR14 arrays. The LR14B's stand-mount sleeve in combination with the triple-LR14 bracket + stand, creates a "top-sub" combination, extending the possible applications.
As in all Alcons' systems, the Signal Integrity Sensing pre-wiring ensures complete cable/connector compensation between the LR14B and ALC amplified-controller, for very tight and accurate bass response, which Alcons says results in a damping factor of 10.000 at the input terminals of the LR14B.
The LR14B is included in the latest "auto-shooter" version of Alcons Ribbon Calculator (ARC) prediction software and is backed by a limited six-year warranty. The first batch of LR14Bs has already found its way to customers in Australia, South Africa, Germany and Russia, Alcons reports.
(Lee Baldock)
