QSC's new KW series, featured at Prolight+Sound 2010, is a more lightweight and compact addition to QSC's K series loudspeaker range, which was launched at Prolight+ Sound 2009. The KW, however, is built in a second generation premium grade birch wooden enclosure and aims to set new standards for wood enclosure loudspeakers. Pictured here are QSC's Ray van Straten and Justin O'Connor.
The KW gear has the same 1000W of Class D power modules (2 x 500W), 1.75-inch high output HF device (in the full-range models) and extensive DSP featured in the K Series.
The KW range comprises four models – the KW122 (12-inch, 2-way multipurpose loudspeaker), KW152 (15-inch, 2-way trapezoidal loudspeaker), KW153 (15-inch, 3-way trapezoidal loudspeaker) and KW181 (18-inch subwoofer) – all with on-board switches that provide preset EQ settings.
The KW models also incorporate DEEP and Intrinsic Correction as performance enhancers into the DSP, while DMT (Directivity Matched Transition) ensures coverage across the entire sound field. In addition, the KW Series features GuardRail protection, which prevents the amplifier module from clipping.
Other KW features include 16-gauge steel grilles, comfortable handles and 35mm pole sockets with Tilt-Direct (on the KW122 and KW152 models). M10 rigging points enable suspended installation of the full-range models, and the KW122 can also function as a stage monitor.
KW Series models feature a four-position mic/line gain switch that lets them connect with a wide variety of devices. Combo XLR and 1/4-inch TRS inputs accept both mic and line level input while a set of RCA phono inputs (except KW181) allow additional connectivity to portable MP3 players, CD players and line-level mixers. Up to three audio sources can be mixed internally and summed to a balanced output for "daisy-chaining" of multiple units. Separate direct outputs are also provided on each channel for additional output flexibility.
The KW series will be shipping in mid-2010.
