The professional audio industry has been creating versatile active PA speakers with built-in wireless connectivity, built-in, mixers and effects, for quite a while. More recently, a few companies recognized the value of designing compact, battery-powered models that can be conveniently used for events, parties, fitness/activities, and street performances, among many use cases. Electro-Voice decided to enter the space with the EVERSE 8 weatherized battery-powered loudspeaker with Bluetooth audio and control.
Designed to deliver a step up in sound quality for the battery-powered portable PA segment, with high SPL and full-bandwidth coverage, the new Electro-Voice EVERSE 8 loudspeaker is compact, lightweight and weatherized paving the way for indoor or outdoor use. Its flexible all-in-one feature set, including the features made possible through the QuickSmart Mobile app make it an even more versatile choice.
The combination was noted by the independent panel of industry expert judges of the CES Innovation Awards, which have decided to declare it a 2023 honoree. The first weatherized model of its type, the EVERSE 8 is a design that takes advantage of decades of Electro-Voice engineering expertise to create a loudspeaker that remains a professional audio tool, while combining all the features that any user would wish for performance, vocal reinforcement and/or audio playback, be it at the professional, amateur or recreational levels.
The PA system design is a concept that opens-up real pro-audio performance for a wider range of users, including educators, fitness instructors and musicians. With a maximum SPL rating of 121dB and wide, even 100º x 100º coverage, the loudspeaker's capabilities defy its compact form factor. Core components include an 8" woofer mounted using EV’s patented SST (Signal Synchronized Transducers) port design, and a high-output titanium tweeter mounted onto a custom constant-directivity waveguide.
The EVERSE 8 is driven by a high-efficiency Class-D amplifier and DSP module developed in collaboration with the audio electronics engineering team at EV’s sibling brand Dynacord. Pro features include a built in four-channel digital mixer with studio-quality effects and processing, 48V phantom power, feedback suppression and audio ducking. And, as with all Electro-Voice portable loudspeakers, EVERSE 8’s system reliability is verified with extensive music abuse and endurance testing.
The speaker is powered by a custom-designed high-capacity Li-ion battery pack, fully optimized for audio use and providing plentiful power for up to 12 hours of run time. Protection circuitry reduces the risk of the battery discharging to such a low voltage that it can no longer be recharged – for example, after long periods in storage. Tool-free screws make removing the battery pack effortless.
Wireless control and monitoring is easy with the EV QuickSmart Mobile app, which can be used to adjust all audio, effects and mix functions via phone or tablet. An intuitive user interface makes it simple to shape the sound to the space. An integrated 12V DC port provides convenient power from the EVERSE 8 battery, making it perfect for powering a wireless microphone system such as the Electro-Voice RE3 or R300. EV suggests attaching the optional accessory tray to the top of an EVERSE 8 to secure receiver hardware in place. For stereo setups, the EVERSE 8 speaker is equipped for Bluetooth true wireless stereo streaming. A charging port is also included for mobile devices if a top-up is needed when streaming.
Every detail of EVERSE 8 loudspeaker was designed to maximize easy lifting and transportation. An ergonomically designed soft-touch handle and premium lightweight construction make it reassuring to move and mount, whether on a tripod for a longer throw, set long-side-down as a stage wedge using the 55° monitor angle, or used upright with the 30° kick-back angle to project up off the performance area. Built-in feet with no-skid rubber pads ensure the system stays put.
In combination with the rugged polypropylene enclosure, the included weatherized input cover allows EVERSE 8 speakers to meet the IP43 rating (water resistant for splashes and light rain) when running on battery power and while Bluetooth streaming. The EVERSE 8 comes in a black or white finish, adding an aesthetic angle to its versatility. An optional tote bag is also available, designed to fit everything the user might need: accessory tray and weather cover, wireless mic and receiver, extra battery, XLR and power cables, and mobile devices.
www.electrovoice.com
