In 1983, Electro-Voice began developing Manifold Technology™ — a method of acoustically combining the output of multiple transducers (both high-frequency compression drivers and multiple woofers) into a single coherent source. This approach, which yielded smaller, lighter and better performing systems, was first implemented in E-V’s landmark MH-4 loudspeakers in 1986 and has been refined over the years. Now, Electro-Voice has taken the evolution of its pioneering manifold loudspeaker designs and MH horn technology to advanced levels of audio performance.
Providing high-performance audio reinforcement for permanent installation in stadiums, sports arenas, houses of worship, performing arts centers and other sizeable spaces requires a large-scale approach. With that in mind, Electro-Voice has expanded its portfolio of large-venue sound solutions with the MTS series, which is designed to deliver a combination of massive output and precise coverage.
The E-V Solution
The MTS systems represent a truly holistic approach to loudspeaker design. Loudspeaker geometry, complementary amplifier matching, and digital processing are computer-optimized to ensure precisely distributed SPL that remains balanced and controlled throughout the entire coverage area — even at full output.
The MTS series consists of single-box, full-range horn-loaded loudspeakers in point-sourse configurations with four 15″ woofers and two 1.4-inch exit coaxial mid/high frequency compression drivers. All are capable of generating peak SPLs in excess of 151 dB with controlled directivity for very long-throw applications (See Fig. 1).
E-V’s R&D team developed a proprietary, state-of-the-art, dual lossless Hydra waveform converter that feeds a coherent arc source into a large constant directivity waveguide to ensure pattern control to below 350 Hz.
On the low-frequency side of the MTS system, four slot-loaded, high-efficiency 15” LF drivers are symmetrically coupled to the same full-range waveguide as the dual coaxial mid/high frequency compression drivers. This not only creates a true point-source system with substantial bass response, but also eliminates the need for additional subwoofers in many applications.
Another version — which delivers complementary performance to that of the standard three-way models — adds two additional side-firing 15” woofers positioned in a separate chamber at the rear of the cabinet that results in a cardioid configuration, delivering full-bandwidth directivity control that substantially reduces acoustic energy behind the speaker and sound spill outside the pattern. This enhances dynamics, improves the sound quality and clarifies speech intelligibility, while extending pattern control to the low-frequency cut-off of the system.
Options Aplenty
The MTS series includes 16 unique models to suit various specific requirements. These are based on two standard three-way configurations (MTS-4153) with 60° x 40° or 40° x 30° (Horizontal x Vertical) coverage, and two cardioid configurations (MTS-6154) that provide the same coverage patterns with enhanced low-frequency directional control. The 60° x 40° models can deliver extremely high SPLs: 151 dB peak (music) and 154 dB peak (speech) down to 55 Hz at -10 dB; the 40° x 30° models are capable of 152 dB peak (music) and 155 dB peak (speech) down to 50 Hz at -10 dB.
The MTS-4153 has a -3 dB frequency response of 55 Hz to 18k Hz (-3 dB) or 50 Hz to 20 kHz (-10 dB); the cardioid MTS 6154 has a similar top-end bandwidth, but goes slightly deeper on the low-end. All MTS enclosures the same square 43” x 43” facing on the co-entrant waveguide, and systems range from 43” to 58” deep, depending on the model.
Built to Last
All MTS models feature stainless steel hardware and grilles, weatherized transducers, and durable birch plywood enclosures with internal bracing.
Each version is available finished with EVCoat in black or white. Each model is available in a partially weatherized (PW) version for sheltered use or in a fully weatherized (FW) version for full exposure to the elements. All MTS loudspeakers have an IP55 rating (assuming a 5° down-tilt), indicating that they are highly impervious to dust and water ingress.
The fully weatherized models are specifically designed for harsh environments, including direct exposure to the elements. In addition to the features already described, all interior and exterior surfaces of the fully weatherized enclosures are finished with a weather-resistant coating that seals the marine-grade plywood. The grilles are backed with a special hydrophobic cloth that minimizes water intrusion without impeding the acoustic output of the speaker.
The enclosures are trapezoidal in both the horizontal and vertical planes, in such a way that tight-packing the loudspeakers in a cluster results in the smoothest coverage transition. Each MTS-4153 loudspeaker has 24 M10 hard points for suspension in either horizontal or vertical configurations. The cardioid MTS-6154 models have 32 M10 suspension points. The speakers can be suspended from individual cable systems or via third-party structural frames.
Serious Inputs
MTS’ coaxial mid/high compression drivers feature a high-power passive crossover with 24 dB per octave slopes to minimize the required number of amplifier channels. The MTS-4153 has separate amplifier inputs for the MHF, LF1 and LF1 sections, although it can operate with just two channels if the LF1 and LF2 are wired in parallel. The cardioid section on the MTS-6154 models requires its own processed amplifier channel.
All MTS loudspeakers feature heavy-duty input/pass-thru panels, with dual 8-conductor Phoenix/Euroblock terminals (Phoenix Contact P/N 1709212). The connectors are mounted in a cast aluminum input cup and have a current capacity that exceeds 40 amps (continuous) with the ability to accommodate up to 10 AWG stranded wire.
An included cover plate with gland nuts provides protection for the speaker and wiring against water ingress and must be installed for outdoor and full exposure applications. The cover plate can also be installed for indoor applications to prevent tampering and enhance cosmetics, presenting a clean, consistent look for the rear of the loudspeaker.
And More…
MTS loudspeakers are engineered to integrate seamlessly with Dynacord IPX series amplifiers and SONICUE sound system control software. For ease of setup and installation, the SONICUE software has presets for all MTS products. Proprietary speaker settings and limiter functions ensure optimum performance with long-term reliability at extremely high output levels. MTS is also compatible with Electro-Voice’s platform-independent PREVIEW software that’s designed to provide prediction visualizations of coverage, SPL, frequency response and precise mechanical load calculations.
For more information, visit www.electrovoice.com.
