New E series speakers prompt host of QSC updates
Published: PRODUCTS
QSC’s E Series loudspeakers have been launched alongside firmware updates for its GLX and PLD amplifiers, extending support for the new cabinets to the amp range while also introducing advanced DSP settings. Together with the firmware updates, Amplifier Navigator 2.2.5 software has also been released, enabling users to remotely control and monitor all functions of CXD and PLD amplifiers, including the on-board DSP functionality and amplifier configuration.
The E Series speakers are designed for sound reinforcement in entertainment applications, such as live performances. It includes four models, with the top-boxes incorporating QSC’s directivity matched transition, which aims to deliver uniform frequency response across the entire coverage area. The E10 features a 10-inch, die cast frame woofer with a 2.5-inch voice coil housed in an enclosure designed as a stage monitor use. Additionally, the E12 is a trapezoidal, two-way loudspeaker using a 12-inch die cast aluminium woofer with a three-inch voice coil capable of delivering low-frequency extension down to 46Hz. The E15 is also trapezoidal in configuration and features a 15-inch, 500W, die cast aluminium frame woofer. Similarly, the E18SW features an 18-inch aluminium frame woofer designed specifically for low-end live performance.
As well as control and monitoring functions, the Amplifier Navigator software also offers a mechanism to create, store and recall presets and loudspeaker profiles to and from a PC or Mac. Users can upload specific profiles to connected amplifiers and enable amplifier cloning. Additionally, if the user connects one or more amplifiers to a computer running Amplifier Navigator, the amp’s firmware will be updated to the latest release.
Lastly, the latest firmware for GXD amplifiers comes via the GXD Firmware Updater software, which adds new E Series presets to the GXD operating system, with various settings for each model. Presets included are the E10, Stereo E10, Stereo E10 and Sub, Stereo E10 Dance and Sub, E10 Monitors, E12, Stereo E12 and Sub, Stereo E12 Dance, Stereo E12 Dance and Sub, E15, Stereo E15, Stereo E15 and Sub, Stereo E15 Dance and Sub and the Stereo 18 Subwoofers.
Away from loudspeakers and amps, QSC has expanded its Q-SYS software-based packages with PTZ-IP cameras and an A/V-to-USB Bridging peripheral. The A/V-to-USB Bridging solution includes the Q-SYS I/O-USB Bridge together with the Q-SYS PTZ-12X72 and Q-SYS PTZ-20X60 conferencing cameras. Having introduced IP-based cameras and a USB bridge into the Q-SYS platform, meeting room geography problems have been solved by integrating soft codec conferencing with camera feeds and audio. It fully integrates into Q-SYS, thus bypassing the requirement to download drivers and USB extenders as previously required for modern PC operating systems and soft codec applications such as Skype for Business, ClickMeeting and Adobe Connect.
Flexibility is maximised by allowing as many bridges and cameras to be integrated into a room setup as required. Currently it is the only product that allows for BYOD at the conference room table allowing the in-room racked PC to bridge without increasing the amount of hardware required. The Californian manufacturer claims that the single software and IT-centric IP-based platform ensures less time is required on training individuals how to use it. In addition, the holistic approach solves conference room technology compatibility, bypassing the need to integrate several products from different manufacturers. Designed to seamlessly integrate with all current and future shipping Q-SYS Cores such as the Core 110f and Q-SYS peripherals, Q-SYS conference systems now add camera video to their list of AEC, third-party integration and control.