Typically, subwoofers radiate sound equally in all directions, resulting in troublesome, unwanted low-frequency build-up on stage as well as undesired, wasted LF energy at the rear of the system. In more recent years, concert sound providers have been able to create cardioid (heart-shaped) coverage of their subwoofer arrays through some clever manipulation of placement, delay and polarity, redirecting desired LF energy forward and minimizing energy at the sides and rear. Unfortunately this technique is costly and requires multiple enclosures, amplifiers and processors.
As the Costa Mesa, CA, company states, "representing a breakthrough in innovation and design, the K Cardioid Subwoofer uniquely provides all the benefits of a cardioid subwoofer array but in a single, compact enclosure. “Keeping bass in its place” for mobile entertainers, AV production and rental professionals, as well as modestly-sized performance venues, the K Cardioid Subwoofer is unparalleled in its ability to manage low frequencies on the stage, or any application where undesirable low frequency energy needs to be minimized."Powered by a 1,000 Watt Class D amplifier, processed with the latest DSP technology, and featuring dual 12-inch long excursion drivers each arranged in a 6th order bandpass chamber, these elements all combine seamlessly to produce a staggering 15 dB more output at the front of the cabinet than at the rear. Highly portable, the cabinet features comfortable, aluminum handles and four, rear-mounted casters. Two M20 sockets are provided to accept a 35mm speaker pole in either vertical or horizontal deployment of the sub.
Additional features and specifications are yet to be announced by QSC. The K Cardioid subwoofer will have an estimated US street price of $1,399 and is expected to be available in the first half of 2017.
www.qsc.com
