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WideLine-8 offers same horizontal coverage as large models

Designed to meet the needs of both concert and fixed sound applications, the WideLine-8 line array system from QSC leaves diminutive footprints for all others to follow with its ability to pack full-size line array performance into remarkably small enclosures. Including the fullrange WL3082 and WL212-sw subwoofer, the WideLine-8 Series offers the same wide, 140° horizontal coverage as larger WideLine models, excellent ergonomics, and a rigging system integrated into each enclosure that provides strength to accommodate arrays of up to 12 boxes with a 10:1 design factor.
The genesis of the WideLine-8 Series finds its roots in QSC's efforts to create an ultra-compact line array system that would meet the growing number of production requirements demanding the use of smaller loudspeakers. Today's trim height restrictions, advancing needs to keep video sightlines clear, and rising fuel costs mandating downsized truck packs are some of the forces leading to the WideLine-8 system's development.
On the fullrange side of the WideLine-8 design came the WL3082, which measures less than a perfunctory 20 inches wide and nine inches high, and has an operable range from 68 Hz - 20 kHz. Relying on a triamplified configuration (there are no passive components), the enclosure is outfitted with a pair of high-powered, eight-inch drivers with neodymium magnets. While both of these elements cover low frequencies, only one extends into the midrange to insure that horizontal dispersion control is maintained at the crossover point.
High frequencies within the WL3082 are managed by a three-inch voice coil-equipped neodymium compression driver coupled to QSC's patented 140° multiple aperture diffraction waveguide. Extending nearly to the top and bottom of the enclosure, the waveguide exit creates a continuous acoustical source with minimal discontinuities between adjacent elements to greatly reduce the negative impact of driver interaction. To minimize the frontal area of the system to a bare minimum, the ports were moved to the sides of the enclosure.
The WideLine-8 system extends its low-end performance with the aid of the WL212-sw sub. Upon initial inspection, this subwoofer's enclosure appears smaller than the space required to physically house the pair of long excursion 12 inch woofers with four inch voice coils that reside inside. Producing 135.4 dB peak SPL nonetheless with an extended range down to 32 Hz, it delivers serious sonic punch with a high sensitivity of 99 dB and 1,100 watts of continuous power handling capacity. Employing a fourth order bandpass design, the sub matches the width of the fullrange WL3082, allowing it to be flown in-line with or behind a WideLine-8 array. Its extremely low profile (less than 15 inches) also makes it suitable for either fixed or portable use when system subs must be located under a stage or in other tight spaces.
Every WideLine-8 enclosure is constructed from Baltic Birch plywood finished with a waterborne polymer that is field-repairable. Reducing weight further (and preventing rust), suspension fittings found on each cabinet are made of aluminum.
WideLine-8 Series components utilize a straightforward four-point suspension system outfitted with quick-release pins secured by lanyards. When combined with the light weight, compact size, and handling ergonomics found in the system, this feature enables a complete array to be deployed by a single person.
For groundstack applications, the WL212-sw subwoofer may be used as a base for stacking up to six fullrange enclosures. In addition, the subwoofer's suspension system is equipped with a feature that permits the lowest fullrange cabinet stacked above to be tilted up or down as much as 10 degrees to facilitate coverage in areas nearest to the stage.
A number of accessories are offered for the system as well, and include small and large array frames (the largest array frame can be used to suspend up to 12 fullrange enclosures and four subwoofers), an extension bar that allows an array of subwoofers to be flown behind an array of fullrange systems, caster pallets, padded covers, and road cases.
WideLine-8 line array system by QSC
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