Harman Professional Solutions today introduced the JBL by HARMAN VTX A12 line array loudspeakers, which offer a redesigned solution for mid to large size touring productions and high-end fixed installations.

The loudspeaker features new and proprietary transducer and high-frequency waveguide designs, innovations in the rigging and suspension hardware and refinements to the physical aspects of the cabinet.  It addresses the most important needs of tour sound professionals and represents a renewed commitment by JBL to the tour sound community.

“When we set out to design the VTX A12, JBL’s next generation midsize line array, we engaged some of the leading engineers in live sound and asked questions like ‘What frustrates you most?’ and ‘What would make a line array better?’” said Harman Professional Solutions tour audio solutions manager Phillip Scobee.

The VTX A12 loudspeaker was designed from scratch to address the challenges of rental companies, FOH engineers and tour sound production crews. Precise configuration featuring a patented locking mechanism to automatically lock the cabinet, angles to the desired position, while best-in-class rigging enables fast setup. All VTX A12 accessories are designed to be lightweight, durable and sized to fit both USA and international truck dimensions to simplify transport and logistics.

“After engineering some groundbreaking advances with the A12’s drivers we knew having the best sound wasn’t enough. We took the feedback we received and applied a systems-based approach that covered all the details, from how quickly the boxes could be rigged, to how efficiently you could load the truck after a performance. What ended up in the VTX A12 is truly astounding. The sound engineers who received early previews are saying they are blown away by its clarity, power and consistent directivity. Its ease of deployment, and the cost savings they’ll realise due to its light weight and reduced space for transport, is the additional reason why they’re adding the A12 to their riders,” said Phillip.

VTX A12 new high-frequency (HF) section features three drivers that combine the HF phasing-plug and waveguide into one part, yielding better tolerances and increased sensitivity above 6kHz, as well as reducing distortion and overall weight. A newly designed Radiation Boundary Integrator (RBI) combines four 5” mid-frequency drivers into the high-frequency waveguide and provides a smooth horn surface for the high frequency section.  A lightweight 12” low frequency woofer (LF) features a 4th-generation Differential Drive design, new dual NEO dual-coil magnet arrangement and a host of proprietary JBL technologies for increased excursion, power handling and sensitivity. These elements combine to deliver a system with the highest output per weight, great low-frequency extension and 90° directivity down to 300Hz.

VTX A12 has an updated exterior with full-face grill design that protects the loudspeaker components and helps the system achieve a higher Ingress Protection rating (IP55). It also reduces the number of exposed components, allowing the loudspeaker to be finished in a variety of colour options.

VTX A12 systems have been beta tested in the field over the last four months with leading front-of-house engineers, systems engineers and rental companies to ensure the factory presets offer great results right out of the box.

“The VTX A12 sounds really even right away, and the rigging system is very easy to fly, from start to finish. I love it, just for the pure power of it. It’s got more meat in the low end than any other speaker box out in the market,” said Rascal Flatts FOH engineer Jon Loeser.