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Martin Audio MLA MINI, Advanced User'S Manual

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MLA Mini Advanced 

User Guide V1.0

11

MLA MINI    

ADVANCED USER GUIDE

MLA Mini systems are designed for use indoors or outdoors in virtually any weather conditions. 
Basic unit rating is IP2X, but the MSX may be protected by a waterproof flexible cowl which 
gives it an IP25 rating.

The cabinets are elegantly styled with a wrap over grille, and are designed for easy and stable 
stacking in trucks or warehouses. Handling and rigging the system is easy as each set of four 
MLA Mini cabinets can be mounted on the base of their flightcase (optional).

UNPACKING THE MLA MINI COMPONENTS

After unpacking the units, please check them carefully for any damage. If any is found, 
immediately notify the carrier concerned - you, the consignee, must instigate any claim. Please 
retain all packaging in case you need to return any units.

Please think of our environment.

When the product has reached the end of its useful life, please dispose of it responsibly through 
a recycling centre.

Summary of Contents for MLA MINI

Page 1: ...MARTIN AUDIO MLA MINI MLA MINI ADVANCED USER GUIDE INCLUDING DISPLAY 2 2 AND VU NET 2 0 FOR MLA MINI...

Page 2: ...vanced User Guide V1 0 2 MLA MINI ADVANCED USER GUIDE CONTENTS SAFETY INFORMATION 4 Important Safety Instructions 4 Safety Rules 6 MLA MINI HARDWARE 7 DISPLAY 2 2 0 FOR MLA MINI 81 VU NET 2 0 0 FOR ML...

Page 3: ...MLA Mini Advanced User Guide V1 0 3 MLA MINI ADVANCED USER GUIDE...

Page 4: ...es and the point where they exit the apparatus 11 Only use attachments and accessories specified by the manufacturer 12 Use only with the cart stand tripod bracket or table specified by the manufactur...

Page 5: ...ly or not used with mains connector cords rated to at least IP25 Country of origin United Kingdom EMC Emission EN55103 1 2009 EMC Immunity EN55103 2 2009 FCC CFR47 Part 15B 2010 This is a class A prod...

Page 6: ...comprehensive mains distribution system with circuit breakers is available from Martin Audio Before powering the MSX via the Neutrik PowerCON TRUE1 connector make sure that the unit is supplied with...

Page 7: ...MLA Mini Advanced User Guide V1 0 7 MLA MINI ADVANCED USER GUIDE MLA MINI HARDWARE...

Page 8: ...A Mini connection 16 MLA MINI SYSTEM MECHANICAL COMPONENTS 17 System Configuration Using On Board Presets 23 Using Presets 23 Choosing a preset 24 Cabling connecting up 28 ADVANCED SYSTEM CONFIGURATIO...

Page 9: ...ng Option 2 Ground Stacked MLA Mini array on MSX sub s 61 Rigging Option 3 Ground Stacked MLA Mini array with separate MSX sub s 66 Rigging Option 4 Flown Mini array with MSX sub s on floor 68 Rigging...

Page 10: ...e other line array designs which concentrate on generating a coherent wavefront of the sound leaving the front of the array the MLA approach is to aim to achieve as coherent a wavefront as possible at...

Page 11: ...ng in trucks or warehouses Handling and rigging the system is easy as each set of four MLA Mini cabinets can be mounted on the base of their flightcase optional UNPACKING THE MLA MINI COMPONENTS After...

Page 12: ...create more powerful systems Each cabinet is a two way cellular drive loudspeaker array element comprising two 6 5 165 mm dia LF drivers and three 1 4 35 mm dia HF compression drivers Each MSX contai...

Page 13: ...d by the internal presets is required When using the internal presets the U NET connectors may be ignored Please see page 31 for more details 5 U NET 1 status bi colour LED indicating network status 6...

Page 14: ...r to an appliance It should be installed by qualified personnel only Place bushing and chuck over the cable Prepare cable as shown A B 1 2 0 32 8 mm 0 787 20 mm 0 9 PE 23 mm 0 32 8 mm 0 787 20 mm 0 9...

Page 15: ...le into the contacts and clamp with the screw Wiring VDE UL Slide insert and chuck into housing Slide the cable clamp bushing up the cable and tighten it with the tool as shown Tool available Art No H...

Page 16: ...NCED USER GUIDE MLA MINI CONNECTION The MLA Mini system only has one other connection This is a Neutrik NL4 on the Mini cabinets themselves Connect the cables referred to in Item 3 above here taking c...

Page 17: ...of the array It is also used to attach an array of Minis to one or more MSX subs in a ground stack arrangement or an array of Minis directly to the Ground Stack Baseplate in a situation where the MSX...

Page 18: ...2 specifications by turning the handle and then locked in position with the integral clamp Universal tilt bracket Martin Audio Part No ASF20051 This can allow an array of 4 Minis to be fitted to the...

Page 19: ...unt configurations The maximum number of Minis that can be mounted using the Fixed Tilt Bracket is four Ground Stack Baseplate Martin Audio Part No ASF20062 This is normally fitted to the base of the...

Page 20: ...round stacking They will also be needed when the Mini array is to be ground stacked alone Two versions are available long Martin Audio Part No ASF20056 and short ASF20057 the two sizes allow different...

Page 21: ...the factory Flight case for 4 Minis Martin Audio Part No CAR00072 An optional dedicated flightcase is available for an array of 4 Mini cabinets This will allow safe transportation and convenient rigg...

Page 22: ...oard which is fitted to the front of the MSX sub for speaker protection to allow easy attachment of the Ground Stack Baseplate and also for convenient transportation It does not form part of an assemb...

Page 23: ...de For all larger configurations the two software applications must be used The configuration options using Presets are discussed below Configuring systems using Display 2 2 follows at page 30 Using P...

Page 24: ...et angles and the angle between the mounting and the first Mini The selected preset optimises the MLA Mini system for the dimensions and heights shown in the diagrams but good performance will still b...

Page 25: ...seated audience over a larger area Good coverage is provided between 2 m and 17 m from the loudspeakers Note the array tilt angle differs from that used by Preset 1 Preset 3 14 5 12m 2m 1 57m 0 5 6 5...

Page 26: ...10 1 2m ANALOGUE INPUT ANALOGUE INPUT 7 12m 2m 2 38m 0 5 4 10 ANALOGUE INPUT H10 H13 This preset should be used when the 4 x Mini array is flown with the MSX sub remaining on the floor The preset is m...

Page 27: ...the top of the array The Flying Frame and Transition Frame are both required to achieve this configuration The audience coverage is the same as for Preset 5 Summary of Presets Preset Rigging Location...

Page 28: ...FERENCE RECEIVED INCLUDING INTERFERENCE THAT MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION NEUTRIK NEUTRIK 1 2 3 PUSH PUSH NEUTRIK NEUTRIK 6 LIECHTENSTEIN LIECHTENSTEIN RISK OF ELECTRIC CAUTION SHOCK DO NOT OPEN THIS...

Page 29: ...output to the INPUT connector Ensure that the mixing console main output is muted or faded down 4 If Vu Net software is being used to monitor the system s operation connect the MSX into the U Net ring...

Page 30: ...age of the optimisation process can be executed This also uses numerical optimisation but now works through the EQ FIR gain and phase parameters available in the DSP evaluating all possible combinatio...

Page 31: ...complex arena Even powerful PCs cannot try all possible combinations in a reasonable time so algorithms are used that abandon some calculation avenues when a certain sequence of filter parameters are...

Page 32: ...d Vu Net software applications Merlin also offers an extensive range of audio processing functions which can be used to provide audio matrix functions e g to feed other speakers such as side or front...

Page 33: ...wired or wireless Ethernet switch The Ethernet connection is suitable for a standard 100Base T computer network Standard Cat 5 patch cables with RJ45 connections may be used to connect between the Me...

Page 34: ...Rukus Wi Fi router Front of Rack MLA SLAVE RACK This optional component Part No ASF17032 has been developed to facilitate simple network connections to larger MLA systems where the arrays are fully f...

Page 35: ...ferred This may be particularly useful in areas with high Wi fi traffic resulting in congestion which may impact on connectivity or when performing firmware updates in fact a cable connection is very...

Page 36: ...ni systems as all necessary DSP is contained within the MSX power plant This MLA Mini Advanced User Guide ignores the audio I O and DSP aspects of Merlin these topics are fully covered in the separate...

Page 37: ...losed loop but it is strongly recommended to use this topology so that the network will continue to work in the event of a cable break or unplugged connector Network options Bearing in mind the points...

Page 38: ...um USB Extender 20m This is as Option 1 but a USB extender is required where the USB cable run is in excess of 5 m Option 3 Option 3 PC to MSX via Silex Ethernet Convertor USB MINI USB ETHERNET USB 5m...

Page 39: ...operational redundancy is provided by this arrangement Option 5 Option 5 PC to MSX via USB U Net redundant loop to second MSX 35m MINI USB U Net Port 1 U Net Port 1 U Net Port 2 U Net Port 2 USB This...

Page 40: ...ight MLA Minis per side and the U Net loop must now take in all four subs in the same daisy chain manner as in Option 5 Again full redundancy is obtained This arrangement can be easily extended to acc...

Page 41: ...thercons RJ45 to U Net adaptors are required The arrangement in Option 7 does not provide redundant operation Option 8 Option 8 PC Via a Merlin redundant loop MERLIN RJ45 to U Net Barrel PCX00043 RJ45...

Page 42: ...LA Master rack is fitted with Lemo connectors instead of Etherconns the RJ45 to U Net barrels are no longer required Option 10 Option 10 PC Via Wi Fi using FoH and Merlin Rack MLA MASTER RACK FRONT OF...

Page 43: ...d the MLA Mini cabinets The MLA Mini system is intended for both fixed installations and touring a rather different approach can be used for fixed installations as all system cabling will be in place...

Page 44: ...MLA Mini Advanced User Guide V1 0 44 MLA MINI ADVANCED USER GUIDE GREEN NL8 ORANGE NL8 2x ASF12026 Speaker Loom GREEN NL8 ORANGE NL8 Option 2 8 Mini Ground Stack systems...

Page 45: ...MLA Mini Advanced User Guide V1 0 45 MLA MINI ADVANCED USER GUIDE Option 3 MLA Mini Flown Below MSX ASF12026 Speaker Loom GREEN NL8 ORANGE NL8...

Page 46: ...MLA Mini Advanced User Guide V1 0 46 MLA MINI ADVANCED USER GUIDE Option 4 8 x MLA Mini Flown Below MSX 2x ASF12026 Speaker Loom GREEN NL8 GREEN NL8 ORANGE NL8 ORANGE NL8...

Page 47: ...i Advanced User Guide V1 0 47 MLA MINI ADVANCED USER GUIDE Option 5 Flown MLA Mini Ground Stack MSX ASF12026 Speaker Loom GREEN NL8 ORANGE NL8 Standard NL8 Speaker Cable x2 Neutrik NL8MM Connector Bar...

Page 48: ...r Guide V1 0 48 MLA MINI ADVANCED USER GUIDE Option 6 8 x Flown MLA Mini Ground Stack MSX ASF12026 Speaker Loom x2 GREEN NL8 GREEN NL8 ORANGE NL8 ORANGE NL8 Standard NL8 Speaker Cable x4 Neutrik NL8MM...

Page 49: ...ED USER GUIDE Option 7 Flown MLA Mini Ground Stack MSX GREEN NL8 ORANGE NL8 ASF12029 Tourmate Cable 15M Or ASF12002 Tourmate Cable 30m Or Any standard Socapex Pattern Cable ASF12030 Speaker Cable Brea...

Page 50: ...8 x Flown MLA Mini Ground Stack MSX GREEN NL8 GREEN NL8 ORANGE NL8 ORANGE NL8 2 x ASF12029 Tourmate Cable 15M Or 2 x ASF12002 Tourmate Cable 30m Or 2 x Any standard Socapex Pattern Cable 2 x ASF12030...

Page 51: ...he MLA Mini ends are staggered to ensure that the connections are unambiguous and as neat as possible The overall length of the loom is adequate for use with a fully flown 12 3 system 12 MLA cabinets...

Page 52: ...common Socapex pattern and cables of various lengths are readily available Martin Audio s Tourmate adaptors are rated to IP67 so are suitable for outdoor use Martin Audio Part No ASF12030 is an adapto...

Page 53: ...Long Tail NL4 Short Tail NL8 NL4 Long Tail NL4 Short Tail 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 1 3 1 3 1 3 1 4 2 4 2 4 2 4 2 We recommend cable of a minimum gauge of 2 5 mm 13 AWG is used for lengths up...

Page 54: ...the component count applies to a single system for stereo the quantities should be doubled Component Pole Mount Universal Tilt Bracket Fixed Tilt Bracket Ground Stack Baseplate Ground Stack Bar long T...

Page 55: ...MSX sub face down on its wheelboard Rotate the four dropdown brackets located in the base of the MSX so they are protruding outwards Attach the Ground Stack Baseplate to the bottom of the MSX cabinet...

Page 56: ...the pole securely into the threaded plate on the top of the MSX Step 3 If using Preset 1 which calls for a bracket tilt angle of 14 5 either the Universal Tilt Bracket or the Fixed Tilt Bracket may be...

Page 57: ...lots in the front corners of the cabinet Secure these points with flying pins Attach the rear lug of the bracket to the Ground Stack hole marked with a in the cabinet s rear mounting plate Secure with...

Page 58: ...h a and secure with the Flying Pin supplied Ensure the swing arm is pointed upwards as shown Step 5 Lift the next cabinet on top of the previous one and secure both the front corners with further Flyi...

Page 59: ...er Take care to set the correct angles Step 7 The connections to the 4 x Mini array see page 28 are most conveniently made at this stage Step 8 Depress the safety catch to unlock the height adjustment...

Page 60: ...cabinet angles Cabinets 1 2 6 5 Cabinets 2 3 6 5 Cabinets 3 4 0 5 Summary of angles for Preset 2 Preset 2 Bracket tilt angle 17 5 Inter cabinet angles Cabinets 1 2 6 5 Cabinets 2 3 6 5 Cabinets 3 4 0...

Page 61: ...ched to the top using the Flying Frame or two MSX subs may be stacked vertically on the Baseplate with eight MLA Mini cabinets attached to the top of the second upper one using the Flying Frame Note t...

Page 62: ...am on the base plate membrane note there are two mounting positions for the MSX A rig of four Minis on a single MSX will always use the pair of slots nearer the front of the baseplate A rig of eight M...

Page 63: ...the upper MSX sub if you are rigging an 8 2 configuration as shown and secure the dropdown brackets using four Flying Pins Step 4 The angle between the Flying Frame and the bottom Mini will be define...

Page 64: ...the first MLA Mini cabinet onto the Flying Frame locking the two front slots into place with Flying Pins Note that the front of the Flying Frame should be flush with the lower front edge of the cabine...

Page 65: ...e on the lower bracket If you are rigging for use with Preset 4 set the angle to 10 by inserting the pin in the hole marked 10 Step 8 Repeat Step 7 either twice for a 4 1 rig or six times for an 8 2 r...

Page 66: ...ing Option 2 Step 1 Refer to the diagram on the Ground Stack Baseplate membrane note there are two possible mounting positions for the Flying Frame A rig of four Minis will always use the pair of slot...

Page 67: ...o the Ground Stack symbol on the bracket Secure with a Flying Pin Step 5 Lift the next cabinet on top of the previous one and secure both the front corners with further Flying Pins At the rear rotate...

Page 68: ...onfiguration The Flying Frame allows a Mini array to be suspended using either one or two chain hoists The Flying Frame may be fitted with a clinometer to allow the tilt of the array to be set accurat...

Page 69: ...corners Note that there are two available mounting positions on the frame ensure that the correct ones are used according to the Display 2 2 Rigging data With smaller arrays the front of the top cabi...

Page 70: ...owever if it is easier to connect up at ground level perform this step next Note that the supplied NL8 to NL4 cables will not be long enough for this configuration and two standard NL8 to NL8 cables o...

Page 71: ...lt angle can be checked with the clinometer display and adjusted by differential adjustment of the two hoists If using Preset 5 this angle will be 7 If a single hoist attachment is being employed the...

Page 72: ...option is suitable for use with Preset 5 when using a 4 1 configuration Step 1 Remove the Pole Mount boss from the Universal Tilt Bracket if one is attached Attach a standard Trigger Clamp to the bra...

Page 73: ...nie or picker or adequate manpower can be employed Ensure that the T clamp is tightened Step 3 If easy access is available to the array at its flown height it is probably better to leave connecting th...

Page 74: ...MSX subs twelve MLA Mini cabinets plus three MSX subs The Flying Frame is used to support the full array Fully flown systems always have the sub s at the top of the array with the MLA cabinets suspen...

Page 75: ...ht kg Weight lbs Flying Frame 17 kg 38 lbs 4 cabinet array 1 MSX sub 112 kg 251 lbs 8 cabinet array 2 MSX subs 224 kg 502 lbs 12 cabinet array 3 MSX subs 336 kg 753 lbs Rigging Option 5 is suitable fo...

Page 76: ...hoist s remove the wheelboard when it is clear of the ground Step 3 If you are rigging a 4 1 array proceed to Step 4 If you are rigging an 8 2 array wheel the second MSX sub into position so that its...

Page 77: ...in the frame the other is at the rear where the swinging arm can mate with the upper section of the cabinet rear bracket in three positions to produce an angle between the Transition frame and the Mi...

Page 78: ...used as the MSX is adjacent to the Minis AC mains the analogue audio input and any network in use should also be connected at this time With larger arrays it is also advisable to plug the cables for a...

Page 79: ...meter display If a single hoist attachment is being employed the suspension employed will ensure that the array s centre of gravity will set the tilt at the correct angle If using two hoists adjust th...

Page 80: ...ccordance with the instructions provided by Martin Audio Martin Audio is not liable for consequential damages This warranty is exclusive and no other warranty is expressed or implied This warranty doe...

Page 81: ...MLA Mini Display 2 2 V1 0 81 MLA MINI DISPLAY 2 2 DISPLAY 2 2 0 FOR MLA MINI...

Page 82: ...a Shell 108 Edit the shell 109 Using Survey 110 Position the Array 111 Add the Audience Region 112 Editing the Audience Region 113 COVERAGE TAB 114 Defining venue planes 114 Changing Plane Properties...

Page 83: ...nd Stacking 135 Pole Mount 139 EQ TAB 143 Air Absorption 143 Goals 144 Optimise EQ s 146 View the SPL 148 INDIVIDUAL GRAPH WINDOWS 151 ADDING ADDITIONAL ARRAYS 155 Deleting an array 155 EXPORTING THE...

Page 84: ...ll be far quicker than the time it takes to rig all arrays so in no way slows down the show build up To actually try every possible combination of DSP would take months even on the most powerful compu...

Page 85: ...optimisations to be effective at low frequencies MLA and MLA Compact must be running 2 2 57 and 2 12 44 respectively These were released in 2015 so all system should be running them as a matter of cou...

Page 86: ...ing each of these combinations involves a substantial amount of processing but pales into insignificance compared to the hundreds of thousands of calculations required when running numerical optimisat...

Page 87: ...s represent the three types of plane the audience area are green non audience areas around the venue which we are not concerned about are red and finally areas where we would like the system to active...

Page 88: ...see a dashed white line which represents the audience start point that we identify on our venue slice We continue upwards moving back through the audience the thick grey line is where we have placed...

Page 89: ...MLA Mini Display 2 2 V1 0 89 MLA MINI DISPLAY 2 2 This shows the bottom portion of the index plot corresponds to the stage and pit leading up to the start of the audience coverage...

Page 90: ...MLA Mini Display 2 2 V1 0 90 MLA MINI DISPLAY 2 2 This section of the index plot corresponds to the first portion of the audience plane up to the reference point...

Page 91: ...A MINI DISPLAY 2 2 This is the section from the reference point to the back of the audience area The strong band of red indicated the front of the balcony which is getting a great deal of direct sound...

Page 92: ...MLA Mini Display 2 2 V1 0 92 MLA MINI DISPLAY 2 2 This is the narrow section corresponding to the rear wall...

Page 93: ...MLA Mini Display 2 2 V1 0 93 MLA MINI DISPLAY 2 2 This is the response on the ceiling...

Page 94: ...lso take a look at the actual frequency response on a conventional graph at any specific point on the plot to better understand what we are looking at Just to re emphasis these plots are prior to any...

Page 95: ...here our curser position has been placed It is easy to see from these how the colours respond to the peaks and troughs on the graph The on stage response for example has little or no high frequency it...

Page 96: ...encies for the entire audience with no spill whatsoever anywhere else Here we have a real world optimisation with a 10 box system And to demonstrate how close the system can get to the perfect coverag...

Page 97: ...s whilst superb at rejecting sound behind the array on stage if used for a balcony front for example it relies on the array being physically positioned exactly as it is depicted in the software to a f...

Page 98: ...of your array as the first step however it is worth taking a look at the options available under each menu item first The file menu offers four options first you can load recent projects you have been...

Page 99: ...r array The Export menu is where the finished optimisation s and 3D models are uploaded to a file This is the final stage of the design process and we will look at this process later in this guide The...

Page 100: ...plot option has been enabled This can be as many plots are there green virtual microphone dots the display would however look very confused so not more than around 12 is a more practical number Enabl...

Page 101: ...ore applying the filters you can leave this disabled and an additional Apply button will appear when the optimisation is complete Export Clip d2p filename ensures that the exported filename matches th...

Page 102: ...process operates The options for MLA Mini are flown with sub ground stacked ground stacked on sub and pole mount Next you need to select the total number of cabs The options change according to the ma...

Page 103: ...MLA Mini Display 2 2 V1 0 103 MLA MINI DISPLAY 2 2 When flying with subs the maximum is 12 MLA Mini For ground stacked systems either on the floor or on top of the MSX the maximum is 8 cabinets...

Page 104: ...important as the D2P file created with the optimisation for that array will have the name that you assign at this point If you wish to try several optimisations one method is to duplicate the design...

Page 105: ...This window will appear if you attempt to access any of the process icons out of sequence meaning before the preceding process has been completed This feature forces you to complete the project design...

Page 106: ...is to import a Shell from an existing D2 file this is extremely useful when creating designs for venues in which you have already deployed a multicellular system and still have the designs It is also...

Page 107: ...NI DISPLAY 2 2 However if we assume that we have to draw a shell from scratch ignore the Import Shell section enter very approximate maximum dimensions for the length and height of the venue and click...

Page 108: ...nt the back of a stage that is 1 8 metres high this can be edited once you have completed the drawing Next move the mouse in an anticlockwise direction moving the mouse to the approximate position of...

Page 109: ...awing the slice As with the move button click on the Delete button then move your cursor over the offending node and left click to consign it to history The View buttons help to maximise the drawing t...

Page 110: ...o enter an approximate 2D slice with the correct number of nodes as described above Now click in the Enable Survey check box By default leave the Snap to Points box checked You will notice that the po...

Page 111: ...t in your window POSITION THE ARRAY Now click on the array button and move your cursor into the drawing window You will see a rough rectangular representation of the array showing the x coordinates an...

Page 112: ...E REGION Now you need to determine the audience area that we need to cover Click on the Add Audience button Then hover over the slice drawing You will see a green inverted triangle moving left and rig...

Page 113: ...g the other When you have the point in the correct new position click again to finalise it You can also delete the audience region entirely but clicking on the Add Audience button again automatically...

Page 114: ...as shown Each node entered in your Venue slice is shown as a white circle with each plane now allocated a colour between the nodes There are three types of plane Audience which is shown green non audi...

Page 115: ...l balcony fills may need to be deployed You can of course close the Cover tab and return to the Slice tab to try alternative array positions to try and minimise any such shaded areas if audience areas...

Page 116: ...e audience is seated you can simply click the seating button and you will see the green audience line drop accordingly The Standing offset is 1 6m and the Seating is 0 8 If you have a particularly unu...

Page 117: ...nstance the stalls audence area comprises two planes the flat section at the front and the raked section rising towards the back Both of these will have to be changed to whatever the desired offset is...

Page 118: ...wever be careful not to overdo it if not really necessary as you could run the risk of running out of headroom in the upper frequency bands The Edit button brings up the window into which you can ente...

Page 119: ...the yellow triangle which nominally is placed in the middle of the audience region when you enter the coverage area in the venue slice You have the opportunity to move it and if you didn t do so in th...

Page 120: ...onably a very good place to start and works very well unless you have a very large array or need to try something slightly unusual it is advisable to stock with these settings As mentioned setting the...

Page 121: ...ause the input to the cabinets to limit as MLA series can accept a maximum of 18dBu peak input level Choosing levels that are higher than the default will increase the noise floor The default levels a...

Page 122: ...d the Coverage you will be able to open the Splay tab and the default window will appear as follows There are a number of sections to the window these are Splay angles Current Acoustic Output Optimise...

Page 123: ...es between cabinets at the default of 0 5 There is a drop down arrow next to each cabinet allowing you to manually select a cabinet angle We will discuss this option later At the bottom of the list is...

Page 124: ...3 25 lower than the bottom line for MLA or 10 lower if MLD are used at the bottom of the array For MLA Compact and MLA Mini it will be 5 higher and 5 lower The lines are not intended to show the vert...

Page 125: ...ximum of 6 for ground stacked MLA or MLA Compact 8 for ground stacked MLA Mini 12 for MLA Mini flown with MSX The height to the top of the array and distance from the origin is also shown and can be e...

Page 126: ...e lower trim point the distance from the lowest point on the array to the ground The diagram will adjust in real time when the optimisation is taking place and the lower trim will change accordingly I...

Page 127: ...r the vast majority of systems the default setting of 600 seconds 10 minutes will be more than adequate particularly when Display 2 2 is run on a high spec PC With very large arrays in complex venues...

Page 128: ...polish cycle if you have checked this option The array will change colour to yellow When the optimisation is finished you will see the array diagram with the array now stationary The yellow polished...

Page 129: ...lay 2 2 V1 0 129 MLA MINI DISPLAY 2 2 In the Optimisation Progress you will see a list of code corresponding to all the attempts it has made to perfect the angles At the bottom of the list it will dis...

Page 130: ...led we will see the calculated angles immediately applied to the array Here we see a before and after We also have the Calculation window showing the complete mechanical articulation of the array incl...

Page 131: ...th the enclosure quantities and orientation Most common is perhaps array height it is very common for flying points to end up lower than you have originally been told It is vital to make any changes i...

Page 132: ...including the array height lower trim mass and all splay angles MLA Mini has several deployment option for both flown and ground stacked systems This changes the options and information in the riggin...

Page 133: ...ndows Next we have the option to fly the MSX subs with the arrays if this wasn t selected when the array was initially added to the project This again has the limitation that it is only available for...

Page 134: ...flying with MSX subs The main array angle set by using the appropriate hole in the flying grid and the angle between the MSX and the MLA Mini which is set using the rear rigging bracket on the MLA Mi...

Page 135: ...MLA Mini Display 2 2 V1 0 135 MLA MINI DISPLAY 2 2 GROUND STACKING Here we see an eight box MLA Mini ground stack The principal difference with MLA Mini is in the Mounting Options...

Page 136: ...This option will add the MSX subs below the array a single sub for 1 to 4 cabinets and two MSX for 5 to 8 cabinets This will naturally change the height of the array so you will see this window to pr...

Page 137: ...same pop up window prompting you to re calculate splay angles Display will calculate the closest angle available using the ground stack bar and if this doesn t match the Design aim it will be display...

Page 138: ...ays which require a down tilt on the bottom enclosure the long bar is used as in the above example for array which require an up tilt the short bar is used The ground stack bars are labelled with the...

Page 139: ...mount assemblies or can be purchased as an accessory and used with the MLA Mini Universal Bracket ASF20051 and the Pole Mount Adaptor ASF20045 Here is an initial Rig Tool Window for a pole mount syst...

Page 140: ...A Mini Display 2 2 V1 0 140 MLA MINI DISPLAY 2 2 Clicking this will lower the array again showing the warning pop up that the array height will change The array is now at a sensible height above the M...

Page 141: ...the array angle The Universal bracket allows for a tilt from 0 to 18 18 down if the optimisation has created an angle greater than 18 the angle will be displayed in red with the option to Use Nearest...

Page 142: ...Y 2 2 Clicking on Use Nearest will change the Bottom angle to zero and update the diagram and Design Aim Once you have finished with the Rig Tool click Done to close the window so you can advance to t...

Page 143: ...impossible to achieve even with the colossal processing power available in a multicellular system We therefore have to balance our requirements between the three principal objective functions our aud...

Page 144: ...em will attempt to achieve a level at least 20dB below the audience level Target controls the audience level as with the other goals it can be deactivated The option is primarily there for consistency...

Page 145: ...at 5 and 60 The actual figures are not particularly vital what the sliders give you is a quick easy way of balancing the relative importance of the three goals to achieve the results you want at a gla...

Page 146: ...usly wildly varied starting to cluster much closer together We have requested a start to finish differential of 3dB and the spread of magnitude certainly looks close to 6dB The non audience plot shows...

Page 147: ...nd a decent band of blue both on stage and where the balcony front is If we are not happy with the optimisation we can go back and change some of the objective functions and click Optimise again If yo...

Page 148: ...when over a hard avoid area The response at the reference position is also shown as a dashed yellow line and the average repose over the entire audience region as a dashed white line The cursor is sh...

Page 149: ...d that we have achieved an extremely good even coverage for all audience members in this venue It is also worth taking a look at how well we have avoided the stage This shows the response on stage and...

Page 150: ...finish As you can see the response right to the back of the balcony is incredibly flat across virtually the entire frequency spectrum at every position in the audience region The even block of colour...

Page 151: ...gging Tab Full Array Diagram EQ Tab Current EQ Index Plot Optimised EQ Index Plot Audience Sample Responses Graph Non Audience Sample Response Graph Goal Achievement Graph View SPL Tab Venue Diagram F...

Page 152: ...to a suitable location the name will default to a highlighted untitled prompting you to give it an appropriate name before clicking Save to store the file Print will open the Print dialog for your def...

Page 153: ...tra dimension when viewed using this command By clicking on the graph and dragging you can manipulate the 3D view to give a very helpful view to assist in visualising the system performance The 3D vie...

Page 154: ...tinue to click on new positions on the graph to obtain readings for as long as the Data Cursor button is selected Insert Colorbar adds a reference bar to the graph Insert Legend is a function to add a...

Page 155: ...MLA Mini to be used as side hangs so will name them Sides Once you have entered the name click on Add and a new tab will be created You can now go through the same design process defining the 2D slice...

Page 156: ...to make it possible to export the files On the Dashboard select the Export tab you will see three options the first is to generate a TXT balloon file the next will produce a DXF wireframe model of the...

Page 157: ...saved by pressing Use when the optimisation was completed If the design process was incomplete for any reason there will be a red exclamation mark showing If this is an array that is not required you...

Page 158: ...the following Window As with Balloon Exports the first stage is to select which of the arrays in your project you wish to Export using the drop down at the top of the window Next click on the box on t...

Page 159: ...Absolute coordinates will position the model according to its position within the venue With this un checked the model will not have any location parameters specified it will essentially be free floa...

Page 160: ...isplay 2 2 V1 0 160 MLA MINI DISPLAY 2 2 When the Export is finished you will see an indication in the widow Click the Done button to close the Export window Here is an example of a DXF export viewed...

Page 161: ...i Display 2 2 V1 0 161 MLA MINI DISPLAY 2 2 PRINTABLE REPORTS A new feature for Display 2 2 is the ability to export a report which can be filed or printed Clicking on the icon brings up the following...

Page 162: ...e report note that the report will generate information for just the currently selected array if you have several arrays in the project you will have to use the Export Report function individually for...

Page 163: ...MLA Mini Display 2 2 V1 0 163 MLA MINI DISPLAY 2 2 A png image of the venue slice...

Page 164: ...MLA Mini Display 2 2 V1 0 164 MLA MINI DISPLAY 2 2 And an HTML file which contains both images plus a full rigging report...

Page 165: ...MLA Mini Vu Net V1 0 165 MLA MINI VU NET VU NET 2 0 0 FOR MLA MINI...

Page 166: ...S 171 Menu and Toolbar 171 File 171 Edit 172 Preferences 173 Tools 177 Window 178 Help 178 Tool bar 180 Project Workspace 183 WORKING OFFLINE 188 Adding Merlin 188 Adding MLA Mini 189 Arranging the Ar...

Page 167: ...nes in MLA Mini 223 MLA Mini PEQ 226 MLA Mini Ganging 227 Array Ganging 228 Input Ganging 230 Zone Ganging 230 LOADING PRESETS 231 PEQ files 234 Other options 236 Synchronise 237 MASTER OVERVIEW 239 S...

Page 168: ...systems MLA Mini DD12 PSX or CDD Live systems Vu Net can be downloaded from the Martin Audio website at https martin audio com software software and installed on a PC of your choice SYSTEM REQUIREMEN...

Page 169: ...g a look at the file structure which we will refer back to throughout the chapter When you run Vu Net you will see the following Window This is a blank screen with only New Project and Open Project ac...

Page 170: ...2 2 we would recommend creating one folder for all related files for a given event Once you have selected an appropriate name and file location click finish and a new project will be created You will...

Page 171: ...tandard file menu and tool bar which gives quick access to a number of functions FILE The File menu controls all file management tools The New duplicates this function on the tool bar and is how you c...

Page 172: ...cility to save your project with a different file name retaining the original project This could be useful if you wanted to try something but still have the option of returning to you original project...

Page 173: ...the Merlin Controller to read delay figures as a distance as opposed to time The temperature adjustment calculates the delay time according to the speed of sound at that temperature Select the desire...

Page 174: ...lp menu is displayed By default the help window is displayed in a dedicated help browser but you can select it to open in your default Internet Browser Context help which responds dynamically to objec...

Page 175: ...e systems with your PC connected to two or more screens You can select the option to display the Master Overview as an embedded window within Vu Net it will appear as another tab in the same way as do...

Page 176: ...e used if you have two systems running on the same Ethernet network and need to control them independently Only devices with their IP address set to values within the filter range will be found and th...

Page 177: ...dows Power Option Allows Vu Net to prevent Windows from implementing changes to the power settings that can effect network operation This should be left checked unless there is a very specific need to...

Page 178: ...a firmware conversion so the system is aware of what type of enclosure they are powering An MLD module can be converted to an MLA or more commonly an MLA module to an MLD WINDOW The Window menu is use...

Page 179: ...left of the window 3 Click on the drop down arrow in the top right of the window and select close Any of these will close the welcome screen to reveal the project window User Guide This is essentially...

Page 180: ...ally The third tool is used with the Merlin When a system is discovered its network connections are drawn in place The two U Net nodes on the Merlin usually run as a closed loop will go off to the fir...

Page 181: ...ew Gives an overview of all devices in the project displaying all bargraph level meters giving access to essential functions such as gain mute and Delay and with a link to EQ functions This is designe...

Page 182: ...window As you can see it is a very drastic measure which will shut down the entire system which is why it should be considered as an emergency measure only and not an everyday means for muting the sys...

Page 183: ...indow or can close the project with or without saving Finally you can minimise the project This is particularly useful if you have disconnected to switch from a Wi Fi to a hard wired connection having...

Page 184: ...ette can be minimised by clicking on the white triangle in the top left corner of the palette The overall size of the System Diagram can be increased or decreased by clicking and holding on the gap be...

Page 185: ...con can be expanded if they have a small arrow to the left a project that doesn t yet have any components added or discovered will not show an arrow This will then show all connected components as in...

Page 186: ...m The example above shows the properties for a Merlin in an off line project There are a number of options available for the Properties display selected by the icons in the top right corner of the win...

Page 187: ...thumbnail of the system diagram for whichever project is selected The network status shows the status of the network connection to all elements in all projects running in Vu Net This screen shot show...

Page 188: ...system diagram showing their Ethernet and Vu Net Connections This is vital as every Vu Net element has a unique factory set IP address which Vu Net records so it can provide real time monitoring of th...

Page 189: ...ked on top of each other vertically 4 Flown with Ground stack MSX MSX horizontal row is from four to sixteen MLA Mini flown using a Universal Bracket maximum four cabinets or flying grid with the MSX...

Page 190: ...4 5 6 or 7 you will next be asked to select the number MLA Mini cabinets If you select a number greater than is possible for the desired deployment Vu Net will automatically restrict the number to the...

Page 191: ...MLA Mini Vu Net V1 0 191 MLA MINI VU NET Next a systems with MSX ground stacked horizontally and MLA Mini flown Finally a single system with the MLA Mini pole mounted...

Page 192: ...n If you need to repeat this action several times you can select the Marquee tool from the Palette menu which changes the mouse cursor to a cross and enables box drawing mode Click on the Select icon...

Page 193: ...st aligns objects horizontally here is a before and after of four arrays that have been selected In the upper shot the arrays have been positioned roughly in a line and all selected the lower shot sho...

Page 194: ...ini Vu Net V1 0 194 MLA MINI VU NET The second allows alignment in the vertical Again the arrays are not very well aligned but a simple click of the vertical alignment button and they are perfectly in...

Page 195: ...fourth button will swap the horizontal position of all selected elements The upper shot shows a system drawn with the left and right arrays placed on the wrong sides the lower shot has been corrected...

Page 196: ...all U Net connections are shown from the Merlin to all arrays The U Net ports on the Merlin are on the top and bottom of the Merlin icon in most cases this allows Vu Net to draw the system connections...

Page 197: ...Net ports button and the port position is reversed in the system diagram hopefully making the network connections look neater Note this button reverses the port positions in the system diagram ONLY I...

Page 198: ...ur system If all is ok you can proceed by clicking on the Discover Devices button Assuming everything is OK with your network connection you will see the following window The meter bar will gradually...

Page 199: ...l find any new elements that have been introduced to the network ignoring those already discovered Device Discovery for MLA Mini is a little more involved than other multicellular products as it is ne...

Page 200: ...rrays are deployed By default Display assumes a single array comprising all of the MSX discovered if the system is actually stereo for example we need to select 2 in the Number of ARRAYS box This now...

Page 201: ...MLA Mini Vu Net V1 0 201 MLA MINI VU NET This shows the two MLA Mini array which are deployed in the fault methods of Flown in front of MSX The drop down box shows all other options...

Page 202: ...mple as the maximum for pole mount is 4 cabinets 8 or more in an array will remove this option There are however additional options for ground stacked systems of eight or more MLA Mini the black arrow...

Page 203: ...array thumbnails accordingly and also importantly shows how the arrays should be cabled This is particularly important as flown systems are cabled the opposite way to ground stacked with the longest...

Page 204: ...A Mini Vu Net V1 0 204 MLA MINI VU NET Ground stacked on MSX which is available for up to 8 cabinets appears like this not the cable which unlike flown has the longer NL4s running up to the top cabine...

Page 205: ...MLA Mini Vu Net V1 0 205 MLA MINI VU NET Pole mounted only available for four cabinets adds a pole...

Page 206: ...MLA Mini Vu Net V1 0 206 MLA MINI VU NET There are two options to use Mini as front fills either as four single cabinets or two pairs Finally you can ground stack the Mini next to the MSX...

Page 207: ...et in an array useful for identifying which array is which where two or more are in use and BY ONE which will flash all MSX in an array sequentially so you can check that they are in the correct order...

Page 208: ...MLA Mini Vu Net V1 0 208 MLA MINI VU NET...

Page 209: ...nce is corrected you can proceed by clicking next and synchronising the system Once complete the arrays will appear on the System Diagram window with the thumbnail representing how you have selected t...

Page 210: ...MLA Mini Vu Net V1 0 210 MLA MINI VU NET This is a flown system with the MSX flown behind the Mini Eight mini ground stacked on their MSX...

Page 211: ...MLA Mini Vu Net V1 0 211 MLA MINI VU NET Eight flown Mini with ground stacked MSX stacked vertically and horizontally...

Page 212: ...ly ground stacked with MSX in both horizontal and vertical modes ON LINE OPERATION Note the differences from the off line mode of operation First in the top tight corner you can see the indication tha...

Page 213: ...twork status and we now see all connected elements showing as Online We now have the facility to Disconnect from the system whenever necessary at the end of the night when a show is finished for examp...

Page 214: ...ng as Disconnected and the system in the Diagram window is greyed out As the pop up window mentions it is not possible to make any changes to the system whilst the system is in this state We recommend...

Page 215: ...net ports on individual devices also show the network integrity Good connections will show as a green U1 and U2 port A faulty or missing connection between devices in an array will be shown as either...

Page 216: ...when selecting an element with a right mouse click as there are some configuration options that you may need to select first from this page The right click menu varies according to the device selecte...

Page 217: ...board shortcut for this is Ctrl A PEQs PEQ has two options Import and Export As we will see it is possible to tailor the EQ of an array to suit personal preference This is in addition to the array opt...

Page 218: ...parameter that may have been modified such as input gain or parametric EQ LOADING PRESETS As we will see system configurations for MLA Mini including different optimisations can be stored as Presets...

Page 219: ...ee the chapter on Preset Uploading Presets are loaded by clicking on the desired Preset number after which a window will show the upload progress ending with preset load success Depending on the size...

Page 220: ...ow the system has been deployed brings up the following Window As you can see the main array window is almost identical to the other MLA System components there are the usual six zones available each...

Page 221: ...ition of an AES split mode which routes AESL to the MSX and AESR to the MLA Mini In common with sub arrays there is a SHOW OUTPUT button to access array utility functions rather than double clicking o...

Page 222: ...es are all in the MSX sub it is possible to incorrectly wire from the MSX to the MLA Mini You can either click on cells manually to unmute them and there is a play function to cycle through all cells...

Page 223: ...m does not allow zone definition for an MLA Mini Array Instead zones are defined using the zone faders If you look at the Array Overview thumbnail you will notice that the MSX two in our example have...

Page 224: ...ET You will notice All components that are already part of the zone will turn red Click the Zone 1 label a second time and the two MSX will return to the normal view Click on the Zone 2 label and you...

Page 225: ...Now click on Zone 3 and there will not be any illuminated cabinets Next click on boxes five and six these will turn green This indicates that these cabinets are now part of zone three Finally click o...

Page 226: ...to show which boxes are members of which zone The array is now fully zoned as we wanted it MLA MINI PEQ The MLA Mini Zone PEQ window appears like this It is a slightly simplified version of the PEQ T...

Page 227: ...uired values in the windows at the bottom of the EQ panel Zones 2 to 6 all have a high pass filter and six bands of PEQ MLA MINI GANGING Ganging for MLA Mini is handled in an identical way to all othe...

Page 228: ...ent groups available for both types of ganging selected by the coloured Group buttons along the top of the window in the Unassigned Groups section Array Ganging To gang an entire array click on all ar...

Page 229: ...All parameters other than input source are ganged when using the array buttons so click one any you wish to exclude Here we have added the input source and removed Mute from the ganging for both main...

Page 230: ...in exactly the same way by first selecting a group and then clicking on the required zone Ganging can run across the zones of all arrays or just across some In this example we have ganged Zone 1 the M...

Page 231: ...scovered and tested the next stage is to upload the optimisation file that has been created using Display 2 This is done using the Preset Loader which is found in the Tools menu This brings up the Pre...

Page 232: ...y to which you wish to upload optimisations You cannot load a non matching d2p file There are a couple of possible outcomes when you have selected a d2p file If you have only created one optimisation...

Page 233: ...as there is only one matching optimisation for the Compact side hangs There is also Main v2 11 MLA 1 MLD and MLA LR 11 MLA 1 MLD Neither of these have been added to our MLA arrays as they both match t...

Page 234: ...ion reference 100dB or less Sub Output Gain 0dB PEQ FILES On the left side of the Window you can see three available PEQ files Normal Rock and Orchestra Spoken Word Note that the available list of PEQ...

Page 235: ...t is important to understand that a Custom PEQ will NOT perform the same system reset as one of the factory PEQ s so we would always recommend using a Factory PEQ for your first Sync and then add your...

Page 236: ...t snapshot into which an optimisation will be loaded There are ten available labelled from B to K A is the default factory preset with basic box EQ which may be used whilst checking a system or in an...

Page 237: ...e and you can then wait for an appropriate break in a show or rehearsal to select the new snapshot SYNCHRONISE Once you have completed your selection of the available options the final step is to clic...

Page 238: ...ations In particular if you have created several optimisations for an array in the same D2P file or independently just repeat the Preset Loading process selecting the same D2p file but dragging the al...

Page 239: ...t is useful to view the entire system on a single page with the ability to monitor all levels and make changes to essential functions Here we see a project with a variety of U Net enabled devices conn...

Page 240: ...monitoring the meter response essential features are accessible The function control is the same for all Array and speaker types The top line shows the input configuration for the array if this needs...

Page 241: ...wn in 0 1dB increments Or by directly typing the gain figure you need A click anywhere in the Master Overview Window away from the gain control will close it once you have made any necessary adjustmen...

Page 242: ...has individual delay adjustment for both the sub and main outputs The EQ button will take you directly to the EQ Window for the array opening it in a new tab if it is not already present Double clicki...

Page 243: ...view You can choose to return to the default Auto layout by clicking the Auto Layout button this will bring up a confirmation window Clicking Yes or pressing Return will reset the layout to the defaul...

Page 244: ...ed clicking a Mute button anywhere in the system will bring up a confirmation window The window is slightly different for a zone mute If you definitely want to mute the array zone or speaker click Yes...

Page 245: ...he diagnostics window already open before activating Show Mode the Mute Array button and individual cell mutes for each cabinet will be unavailable you will see the following window if you click on an...

Page 246: ...turn to Martin Audio for repair therefore you should take every possible precaution before commencing a firmware update ALWAYS use a hard wired connection from your PC to the system do not rely on Wi...

Page 247: ...on and the following Window gives you three options The first option as described accesses the firmware server via the internet The URL for the Update file location is retained in the Vu Net Preferenc...

Page 248: ...ploaded the latest files following a message from Martin Audio that there is a new release or if you have periodically gone on line to load the latest files routinely Clicking the PROCEED WITH FIRMWAR...

Page 249: ...aved and the update wizard will commence STARTING A FIRMWARE UPDATE Selecting the Firmware Update Wizard in the Vu Net Tools menu opens the same window as the Get Firmware updates to double check that...

Page 250: ...upgrade is available In this instance a single Merlin and twelve MLA have been found and all have up to date firmware however we can still proceed with an update to show how the process works In the...

Page 251: ...which in most cases would be a new version but could be an old firmware if say a bug has been found in a current version and it is necessary to downgrade to an earlier version If there are several ver...

Page 252: ...measure has been taken to ensure that the update will complete successfully Click Next and the upgrade will start A progress window will appear showing the processes in the upgrade taking place The s...

Page 253: ...MLA Mini Vu Net V1 0 253 MLA MINI VU NET...

Page 254: ...MLA Mini Vu Net V1 0 254 MLA MINI VU NET Once completed you will see the following Click OK and then click on Finish on the Update Progress Window The update is complete...

Page 255: ...MLA Mini Vu Net V1 0 255 MLA MINI VU NET...

Page 256: ...RTH AMERICA Telephone 519 747 5853 Facsimile 519 747 3576 E mail infona martin audio com All information is Copyright 2016 Martin Audio Ltd Martin Audio the Martin Audio logo and Hybrid are registered...

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