JBL VTX A6 line array element and B15 arrayable subwoofer

JBL Professional has introduced the newest members of its flagship VTX line array series, the VTX A6 subcompact dual 6.5-inch passive line array element and the B15 compact, arrayable 15-inch subwoofer.

The A6 and B15 reportedly bring JBL’s top acoustic technologies to compact form factors for small- to medium-size touring and fixed installations, providing versatile solutions for production companies, touring acts, rental houses, theaters, houses of worship.

“When you choose the JBL VTX A Series, you’re building a complete ecosystem, with common acoustic profiles and rigging systems, consistent voicing and standardized system design and operational tools,” says George Georgallis, Director, Product Management–Performance Audio at HARMAN Professional Solutions. “And, by accessing VTX technologies in a new ultra-compact package, you’re able to maximize your system investment and deliver VTX quality and performance in any scale application.”

The A6 6.5-inch passive two-way line array element is engineered as a standalone system or as a supplement to larger VTX systems. It houses two custom 6.5-inch woofers and a 3-inch annular-diaphragm compression driver and features JBL’s patented Radiation Boundary Integrator (RBI) and Differential Drive dual voicecoil woofer.

The VTX B15 15-inch subwoofer features a double-flared exponential ports [E.N - for which JBL now used the trademarked term 'SlipStream', a couple of decades later after it was first used for the HLA subwoofer] and Differential Drive dual voicecoil design and is based on JBL’s new 2285H 15-inch woofer, which is engineered for linearity, efficiency and excursion that rival 18-inch models, says the company. Two B15 versions are available: the arrayable B15 and the B15G, without rigging hardware for ground-stacked applications.

The A6 uses the VTX A Series’ patented rigging system. Splay angles are selected while components are on the ground; once the system is suspended, a locking mechanism secures cabinets in designated positions. The B15 has the same cabinet width and suspension hardware as the A6, allowing the two products to be used together in flown and ground-stacked configurations; additionally the B15 supports cardioid array configurations.

System operation is complemented by JBL’s suite of software tools, including the LAC-3 design application, the Array Link deployment tool and the Performance Manager configuration and control application.

Enclosures are built from birch (9-ply) plywood with black Duraflex finish and feature powder-coated, hex-perforated stainless steel grilles with acoustically transparent cloth backing. Units are IP55-rated and metal parts are made from with anti-corrosion coating.

VTX A6 specifications
- Frequency Range (-10dB): 67 Hz-20 kHz
- Coverage Pattern: 110 degrees nominal (500 Hz-16 kHz)
- Max SPL: 134 dB
- System processing&power: Crown I-Tech HD, Crown iTech 4x3500HD
- Nominal Impedance: 10 ohms
- LF Driver: 2xJBL 2186J, 6.5 in diameter, dual 2.5 in diameter voice coil, neodymium Differential Drive
- HF Driver: JBL 2433H, 3 in diameter annular diaphragm, 3 in diameter voice coil, neodymium compression driver
- Inter-enclosure Angle: 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15
- Dimensions (H x W x D) 190 mm x 536 mm x 301 mm (7.5 in x 21.1 in x 11.8 in)
- Net Weight: 18.4 kg (40.3 lbs)

VTX B15 Specifications
- Frequency Range (-10dB): 35 Hz-95 Hz (Preset: 80 Hz)
- Maximum SPL (1m): 132 dB (Preset: 80 Hz)
- System processing&power:Crown iTech 9000HD, Crown iTech 12000HD, Crown iTech 4x3500HD
- Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms
- LF Driver: JBL 2285H, 15 in diameter, dual 4 in diameter voice coil, neodymium Differential Drive
- Enclosure: 15 mm, 18 mm and 24 mm exterior grade birch plywood
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 446 mm x 536 mm x 586 mm (18.3 in x 21.1 in x 23.1 in)
- Net Weight: 41.5 kg (91.5 lbs)