So, you want to buy a line array?
OK, my phone number is 867-5309 … call me.
Not really, but let’s be serious, for just a moment here. Many people buy things based on what they see other people buying, right? If I go out and buy a new iPhone and show my friends the new cool features like the lack of a 1/8-inch headphone jack, I better run out and buy it! (sarcasm)
So what does that have to do with line arrays?
I’m glad you asked!
Having been doing system integration for 20-plus years, I see trends build and go away.
When it comes to line array speakers and point source speakers, they are both the same in that they produce sound, but they are very different in their design and practical application.
The first obvious thing is many people tend to talk about “line arrays,” because of the concert industry. They are very visible, and are used all over the globe for shows that set up typically for a day and then move on to the next venue.
Let me ask you – do you think it is reasonable that every show that is a major touring act has the absolute best sound, throughout the entire stadium? Or is the choice largely dictated by time limitations, to where they need to get it up and running for the show, then on to the next venue?
What about “point source”? who uses them these days?
Being that I have written about this previously, some of you may know where I am going. I like accuracy in performance. Be it a projector, and its ability to have good color brightness and accuracy, or a microphone and its ability to accurately pick up the speaker or singer.
With line arrays – there are very few places where they are not a compromise.
Speaking to that – many manufacturers are now coming out with “array processing” or some alternate term to make the sound better. This is actually a good thing, where the sound evenness can be moderated where the overall sound within a room is more consistent than an array without this type of processing.
What then is the problem? It is expensive. You ideally need to have a single amplifier channel per loudspeaker arranged in the line array.
Granted – there are places and venues where this technology really makes sense, and is the best solution. Just like I work every day to talk people out of lamp-based projectors, though, I will also question the need for a line array, just because someone wants it or asks for it.
Good sound is all about proper design, and marrying the loudspeaker system to the room and its inherent acoustic signature.
If I just wanted to sell you stuff, regardless of the result, I would install line arrays everywhere with the fancy processing, so I can sell one amp channel per speaker, adding up to a large dollar sale.
This article will probably not make me the most popular person with some of my vendors I work with, but rather than have the illusion of being open and looking out for your best interest at heart, along with being a “good steward,” I opt take a stand here.
Touching on a few positive notes...
Line arrays can get loud, and historically this was a major benefit over the point source, but with the latest developments, this is no longer a unique benefit.
Line arrays can be adjusted in the field for different coverage patterns – with limitations, of course.
Point source speakers, by contrast, have the benefit of having a lower cost for similar pattern control and are simpler to set up.
Point source is the way God intended us to hear, we have two ears and one mouth. One origination point for sound offers higher intelligibility and clarity in many cases.
Which should you choose?
I would recommend that you work with a designer that is not trying to sell you something, to get a real-world answer to that for yourself.
For those of you who will be attending the WFX Conference & Expo in Orlando next week, look to attend my session on Thursday, November 15, from 10 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., discussing the topic of LED walls and cameras that ideally work with them.