Line Array speakers?

Check out Albert Porter's system w/ Dali Megalines. SHoot him an email or post to that thread, he's got a ton of experience.

Then, there's Arthursmuck's VAC Attack w/ custom GR Research CLS-9 line arrays

And then, there is this insane All-Out Assault 7.1 way line array system. Can't say I've ever seen anything on that scale.

Shoot anyone of those three an email or post.

What are the benefits and shortcomings of a line array? If a line array = superior to all the others, why don't we see more line array's from speaker manufacturers?

Chris

I have recently fallen in love with a line array - the McIntosh XRT1K. HOLY MOLY!! It was most impressive. Makes me wonder if down the road I could afford a pair of XRT28 or something because these line arrays sound like the real deal.

From what I understand, line arrays reduce room effects. Not to mention the wave front is huge compared to a point-source speaker. The downside is the number of drivers necessary and the complications that entails - so the cost is generally very high (and the size too of course).

Arthur

I had Rick Craig of Selah Audio build me a pair with OTL-optimized impedance (nominal 13 ohms, minimum 10). We used ScanSpeak 18W-8531s and Fountek NeoPro 5i ribbons. Paired with Atma-Sphere MA-1s they are sublime. The inherently low distortion and superb dynamics of high quality drivers used in a line array design has to be heard to be appreciated. Line array writeups tend to emphasize astounding performance at high spls; rather, it is their uncanny realism at low/mid volume levels that I sought and feel is their greatest attribute.

"Line Array" has also become a big deal in pro-sound/sound renforcement... many new manufacturers, and old ones like JBL have line array setups. Throws a consistant wavefront to all sections of seating, up front or far back.