New flagship for LD’s ‘plug and play’ Maui Series

Often described as mini line arrays, column arrays are increasingly gaining traction because of their compact and portable format. LD Systems is keen to push this growing trend and has therefore brought out Maui 44, its latest flagship in the Maui product family.

The two column elements are made from lightweight aluminium, each housing 16 3.5-inch full range loudspeakers with cast frames, integrated heat sinks, and two 1-inch Celestion HF drivers coupled to a waveguide. Loaded with two 12-inch neodymium drivers, the subwoofer is powered by two Hypex UCD400 amplifiers, while each part of the 4-way vertical array is individually powered by its own 200W Class-D amp. Overall RMS system power is 1,600W with a peak SPL of 129dB.

The main system and subwoofer levels are adjustable individually and feature DSP and a dedicated limiter. It is also claimed to have superior feedback-resistance, and due to its 120-degree horizontal dispersion angle, the manufacturer states there is little need for dedicated monitors in most environments.

Probably the most practical feature of the Maui line is its portability. The subwoofer is made from 15mm birch ply, weighing under 40kg, while the two aluminium column elements weigh only 17.8kg. Set-up is literally a case of slotting the columns into the sub, finding power and you’re away. This ‘plug and play’ setup makes it ideal for small bands, DJs, or non-permanent set-ups like small houses of worship.

Continuing the theme of portability, the manufacturer has also debuted its Dave 18 G3 sound system; an ‘easy to carry’ 18-inch bass reflex subwoofer with two 10-inch satellite speakers comprising 1-inch HF compression drivers.

XLR, 6.3mm jack and RCA formats take care of the inputs, whilst 2,400W of power is derived form the Class-D amplifier to provide a maximum SPL of 135dB over a 32Hz to 20kHz range. A built in limiter allows for control of dynamics and there is also a built-in protection system designed to safeguard against short circuits and power surges.

The housing of the Dave components is made from lacquered 15mm birch plywood, with Evolutive handles and adjustable inserts to allow for optimal alignment of the satellites. The series now includes 10-, 12-, 15- and 18-inch models.

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Web: www.ld-systems.com