HARMAN Professional Solutions has debuted the PRX ONE, the latest addition to the JBL Professional PRX column portable PA family, as well as the JBL Pro Connect app for more simplified management of the PRX ONE.
The PRX ONE incorporates 12 tweeters in a custom-engineered column array with a proprietary A.I.M. (Array Inumbration Mechanics) acoustic design, joined by a 12-inch bass-reflex woofer and an onboard 2,000-watt (peak) class D amplifier. Stated maximum sound pressure level is 130 dB from a package weighing 56 pounds.
Also onboard is a suite of Lexicon and dbx processors and eight customizable presets. Built-in effects include reverb, 8-band EQ, delay, compression, limiting, ducking, echo, sub synth and dbx DriveRack Inside technology with AFS Pro Automatic Feedback Suppression; Triple Tier DSP control offers multi-level user experiences based on knowledge level.
Further, a Soundcraft-designed 7-channel, dual-mode digital mixer can be set to control either general mix functions or channel-strip functions, all manageable via a color LCD or the new JBL Pro Connect app.
The LCD screen provides complete access to all functions, while a Setup Saver saves snapshots for easier recall. Simple Success dynamic LED metering gives users a quick way to verify levels and channel functions such as mute and clipping.
“Whether you’re a singer/songwriter, DJ, corporate presenter or educator, sounding great is critical,” says Brandon Knudsen, JBL Product Manager, Loudspeaker Professional Solutions. “So, when we set out to design a new compact column PA, acoustic performance was top of our list. But at the same time, we know that every scenario is unique. We’ve outfitted the PRX ONE with an incredibly versatile feature set that we believe will appeal to a broad range of performers: Singer/songwriters will appreciate its robust DSP and I/O set, while DJs will love the ability to push the system hard, with that deep bass they crave. And, presenters and educators will appreciate the system’s slim, discreet profile and presets that will have them sounding their best instantly. Everyone will be thrilled to leave the outboard gear behind and lighten their load-in, no matter where they play.”
The custom-designed high-frequency transducers have copper-capped pole pieces intended to reduce inductance for smoother response; transducers exhibit less power compression, offering more natural performance without the need for heavy DSP. High-frequency performance is optimized down to 500 Hz, allowing the woofer to deliver a more natural, accurate bass sound.
Available for Android and iOS phones and tablets, the new JBL Pro Connect app offers an interface designed to make it easier to adjust and control every feature, remotely, on multiple loudspeakers, including adjusting volume levels and EQ, activating Lexicon reverb and effects and more.
Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity allows remote control of up to 10 units using the app, and an XLR Thru output offers analog expansion with the ability to time-align multiple loudspeakers, with up to 100 milliseconds of delay per speaker. An optional bracket and adapter allow the array to be wall or truss-mounted independently of subwoofer for permanent installations. Transport is an easy task due to a ComfortGrip handle and nylon carry bag.
The PRX ONE I/O set includes four pro-grade Neutrik XLR Combo jacks, two channels of dedicated phantom power, dedicated Hi-Z input and two USB 2.0 ports, which can be used to power external devices and AKG wireless systems.
The company states that every PRX ONE undergoes 100 hours of rigorous stress testing to ensure that it will perform without failure in real-world conditions. The system is housed in a durable shell.
