Meyer Sound ULTRA-X20 Compact Wide Coverage Loudspeaker

About: Meyer Sound ULTRA-X20 Compact Wide Coverage Loudspeaker

Meyer Sound’s ULTRA-X20 design extends the award-winning, state-of-the-art ULTRA-X40 point source technology to a smaller version for size and weight critical applications.

Features

• An innovative, highly efficient class-D amplifier that reproduces any sound source with linearity over a wide dynamic range.
• A concentric driver configuration that has all the benefits of a coaxial driver, yet none of the disadvantages. In addition, this configuration supports directional control of frequencies down to 600 Hz.
• A rotatable, extremely well-behaved horn designed for very precise, even coverage. This horn design, in conjunction with the concentric driver configuration, delivers the same pattern regardless of orientation.
• A compact, elegant and light aluminum enclosure encases exceptional fidelity and surprising power capability
• Extraordinarily flat amplitude and phase response ensures tonal accuracy and precise imaging
• Wide pattern covers broad listening areas
• Rotatable horn provides installation flexibility
• Integral stand mount and QuickFly mounting options facilitate rigging

The ULTRA-X20 loudspeaker provides high power output, low distortion, and consistent polar response in a very compact, vented enclosure. The loudspeaker features two 5-inch cone low-frequency drivers and one 2-inch diaphragm compression driver coupled with a rotatable 110° x 50° constant-Q horn. A more controlled pattern is available on the ULTRA-X22 model, which is fitted with a rotatable 80° x 50° constant-Q horn. A broader coverage version, the ULTRA-X23, offers a 110° x 110° constant-Q horn.

Because of its proprietary, high-frequency horn, the beamwidth remains consistent within close tolerances in both the horizontal and vertical planes, and across the horn’s operating frequency range. Uniformly predictable polar behavior takes much of the guesswork out of system design and assures optimal system performance.

A proprietary three-channel, class-D digital power amplifier powers the ULTRA-X20 loudspeaker, which has a total peak power output of 860 watts. Audio processing includes electronic crossover, correction filters for phase and frequency response, and driver protection circuitry. Phase-corrected electronics ensure flat acoustical amplitude and phase response, resulting in exceptional impulse response and precise imaging.

The amplifier/processing package incorporates Meyer Sound’s Intelligent AC, which auto-selects the correct operating voltage, suppresses high voltage transients, filters EMI and provides soft-start power-up. The ULTRA-X20 cabinet has audio XLR and PowerCON 20 input and looping output connectors. The digital audio version provides a Milan Certified format with an etherCON TOP connector and powerCON TRUE1 TOP input and looping output.

Remote monitoring is possible on the analog version via the optional RMS remote monitoring system module, which in conjunction with the optional RMServer hardware unit, provides comprehensive monitoring of loudspeaker parameters from a host computer running Compass Control Software. The digital version provides integrated monitoring via Compass Control Software.

Meyer Sound builds the slightly curved enclosure out of aluminum with a slightly textured black finish. A powder-coated, round-perforated steel grille provides protection to the front of the loudspeaker. The cabinet weighs only 27 lbs (12.3 kg).

The ULTRA-X20 includes two integral M8 rigging points on each end to enable a variety of configurations including those requiring pole mounting, hanging individually from a single point, wall mounting or ceiling mounting. In addition, the ULTRA-X20 includes four M6 threaded holes with 5-inch by 2.75-inch (127 mm by 70 mm) hole pattern on the rear for use with third-party wall mounts.

Optional rigging accessories include a 35 mm to M8 pole adapter, a U-bracket, a yoke, and a pinnable link on a channel that allows the hanging of one or two units from a single pick-up point. Other options include weather protection and custom color finishes.

Point Source Solutions for Size-Critical Applications

• AN EVOLUTION OF TRUSTED TECHNOLOGY - Meyer Sound’s ULTRA-X20 self-powered full-range loudspeaker brings state-of-the-art ULTRA‑X40 point source technology to a smaller, lighter footprint, ideal for installed and portable applications where size and weight are critical factors. Whether used as a compact main system or as fills or surrounds in a larger system, count on the ULTRA-X20 to deliver high power output, low distortion, and consistent polar response in any configuration.
• SMALL AND MIGHTY - The ULTRA-X20 measures just 7.5 inches wide by 19.04 inches high by 8.6 inches deep, but packs a mighty punch. It features two 5-inch cone drivers and a 2-inch compression driver in concentric configuration for more consistent pattern control below the crossover point.
• CUSTOMIZABLE COVERAGE - The ULTRA-X20 rotatable horn produces precise, even coverage regardless of orientation. It's available in three Constant-Q horn variants, for optimal coverage in any scenario. The ULTRA-X20 features a 110° x 50° horn, while the ULTRA-X22 provides more controlled 80° x 50° coverage and the ULTRA-X23’s horn provides a wider 110° x 110° coverage.
• THE SOLUTION FOR COMPACT AUDIO EXCELLENCE - The ULTRA-X20 family is engineered with versatility in mind: as the foundation of a compact main system, or to supplement a larger system. Extend low-frequency power by pairing them with Meyer Sound’s USW‑112P subwoofer, 750‑LFC low-frequency control element, or USW‑210P subwoofer. Carefully tailored phase and frequency responses allow for quick and easy deployments when using ULTRA-X family products with LFC or USW products for portable applications.
• READY FOR RIGGING - Four integral M8 rigging points allow a range of configurations including requiring pole mounting, hanging, wall mounting or ceiling mounting—in horizontal or vertical orientation, at any angle. Four M6 points on the heatsink are compatible with most industry-standard wall mount brackets. Optional accessories include a 35 mm-to-M8 pole adapter, U-bracket, yoke, and a pinnable link that facilitates hanging from a single pick-up point. The lightweight aluminum enclosure can be outfitted in optional weather protection and custom color finishes.

You're in the Driver's Seat

• ULTRA-EFFICIENT AMPLIFICATION - ULTRA-X20 is powered by a three-channel, 860-watt peak Class D digital amplifier with a sophisticated DSP package including electronic crossover, correction filters for phase and frequency response, and driver-protection circuitry. Phase-corrected electronics ensure flat acoustical amplitude and phase response for exceptional impulse response and precise imaging.
• INSIGHTS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS - ULTRA-X20 loudspeakers feature advanced telemetry data when equipped with the Milan option. Users opting for analogue connectivity can still specify Meyer Sound’s RMS platform, which lets you monitor essential performance parameters right from your Mac or Windows PC running Compass control software.
• SMART POWER SOLUTIONS - Power up with peace of mind: ULTRA-X20’s built-in Intelligent AC technology auto-selects correct operating voltage, suppresses high voltage transients, filters EMI, and provides soft-start power-up. The ULTRA-X20XP loudspeaker variant incorporates IntelligentDC technology, which receives balanced audio and DC power from a single composite cable—eliminating the need for conduit and allowing for longer, lighter-gauge cable runs.
• MAKING ALL THE RIGHT CONNECTIONS - The ULTRA-X20 may be configured with any of four connector panel options. Two AC-powered versions feature looping Powercon connectors with either 3-pin or 5-pin XLR audio I/O and optional RMS remote monitoring; an IntelligentDC variant receives audio and DC power over single cable via its 5-pin Phoenix connector. A Milan version features looping Neutrik TOP True1 connections for power and a single TOP Ethercon for audio over IP and telemetry data.

Why Self-Powered?

Self-powered loudspeakers offer several advantages over their passive counterparts when it comes to fidelity, reliability, and simplicity. The great part is, you’ll start to reap the benefits of a self-powered system before you even power up.

Ease of Deployment

System set-up is so much easier when you have fewer components and fewer cables to worry about being miswired. Since self-powered loudspeakers incorporate amplification, you’ll never have to deal with matching speakers to amplifiers or connecting components. You don’t have to worry about calibration of gain and crossover setting which means more time focusing on the show. Eliminating amp racks doesn’t just streamline system deployment, it streamlines your inventory whether you’re a rental house or a road warrior. And when you consider that the average amp rack weighs nearly 300 pounds and takes up four feet of truck space, the efficiencies get even clearer. Let alone when you want to fly the amplifier racks to get closer to the speakers, often requiring more rigging points and more motors.

Predictable, Reliable Operation

Internal amplification is closely matched to drivers. Because individual components have been optimized during manufacturing, you can expect consistent sound from show to show. Built-in, factory-optimized protection circuitry provides extra assurance without degrading signal quality. And, when you have less equipment, you have less risk of failure.

Better Frequency and Phase Response

Because self-powered loudspeakers incorporate sophisticated processing, they are calibrated to exhibit optimal response curves in key performance parameters. Active crossovers are more precise, sophisticated designs, and bi-amped systems are time aligned, eliminating phase issues. The result? Accurate sound throughout the speaker’s range, at any volume level.

Unparalleled Clarity

In powered monitors, internal amplifiers are precision-matched to drivers, delivering optimal power at all times for cleaner sound. And because amps are built into loudspeaker cabinets, there’s no need for long lengths of connecting cable, which can become prone to distortion and signal loss.

Tighter Transients

Since self-powered loudspeakers have very short internal cables, amps inside can more effectively dampen driver mechanical motion, which leads to better sonic accuracy and tighter, crisper transients. (And, there’s none of the loss in levels and signal quality inherent over long cable distances.)

Specifications

• ACOUSTICAL
  • Operating Frequency Range -  60 Hz – 18 kHz
  • Frequency Response -  65 Hz – 17.5 kHz ± 4 dB
  • Phase Response -  95 Hz – 18 kHz ±45°
  • Linear Peak SPL
    • 127 dB with 20 dB crest factor (M-noise)
    • 123.5 dB (Pink Noise)
    • 125.5 dB (B-noise) 
• COVERAGE
  • Rotatable horn: 110° x 50°
• TRANSDUCERS
  • Low Frequency -  Two 5-inch cone drivers; 6 Ω nominal impedance
  • High Frequency -  One 2-inch diaphragm compression driver connected to a rotatable horn; 8 Ω nominal impedance
• AUDIO INPUT
  • Type -  Differential, electronically balanced
  • Maximum Common Mode Range -  ±15 V DC, clamped to earth for voltage transient protection
  • Connectors
    • XLR 3-pin female input with male loop output; optional XLR 5-pin connectors to accommodate both balanced audio and RMS signals
    • XLR 3-pin TOP (Total Outdoor Protection) connectors on weather-protected units only.
  • Input Impedance -  10 kΩ differential between pins 2 and 3
  • Wiring
    • Pin 1: Chassis/earth through 1 kΩ, 1000 pF, 15 V clamp network to provide virtual ground lift at audio frequencies
    • Pin 2: Signal (+)
    • Pin 3: Signal (–)
    • Pin 4: RMS (polarity insensitive)
    • Pin 5: RMS (polarity insensitive)
    • Case: Earth ground and chassis
  • Nominal Input Sensitivity -  0 dBV (1.0 V rms) continuous is typically the onset of limiting for noise and music
  • Input Level -  Audio source must be capable of producing of +20 dBV (10 V rms) into 600 Ω to produce the maximum peak SPL over the operating bandwidth of the loudspeaker.
• AMPLIFIER
  • Type -  3-channel, open-loop, class D
  • Total Output Power -  860 W peak
  • THD, IM, TIM -  < 0.02%
  • Cooling -  Convection
• AC POWER
  • Connectors -  powerCON 20 input with loop output; powerCON TRUE1 TOP with loop output on digital and weather-protected units
  • Automatic Voltage Selection -  90–265 V AC; 50–60 Hz
  • Safety Agency Rated Voltage Range -  100–240 V AC, 50–60 Hz
  • Turn-on and Turn-off points -  90 V AC turn-on, no turn-off; internal fuse protection above 265 V AC
• ​CURRENT DRAW
  • Idle Current -  0.15 A rms (115 V AC); 0.13 A rms (230 V AC); 0.16 A rms (100 V AC)
  • Maximum Long-Term Continuous Current (>10 sec) -  0.9 A rms (115 V AC); 0.5 A rms (230 V AC); 1.1 A rms (100 V AC)
  • Burst Current (<1 sec) -  1.6 A rms (115 V AC); 0.8 A rms (230 V AC); 1.8 A rms (100 V AC)
  • Maximum Instantaneous Peak Current -  3.5 A peak (115 V AC); 1.8 A peak (230 V AC); 4.1 A peak (100 V AC)
  • Inrush Current -  < 20 A peak
• RMS NETWORK (OPTIONAL)
  • Optional RMS module: two-conductor twisted-pair network that reports all operating parameters of amplifiers to system operator’s host computer via the RMServer hardware unit.
• PHYSICAL
  • Dimensions (WxHxD) -  7.44 x 19.04 x 8.66 inch (189 x 484 x 220mm)
  • Weight -  27 lb (12.3 kg)
  • Enclosure -  Aluminum with slightly textured black finish
  • IP Rating -  Weather-protected version rated IP54
  • Protective Grille -  Powder-coated, round-perforated steel
  • Rigging -  Two integrated M8 threaded points on each end; optional accessories for various rigging options (see accessories section); four M6 threaded holes with 5-inch by 2.75-inch (127 mm by 70 mm) hole pattern on the rear for use with third-party wall mounts.