Alcons evolutionary audio solutions LR18 User manual

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
2
Table of contents _______________________________________________
1 Introduction______________________________________________________________________________________3
2 Important safety instructions and precautions _________________________________________________________4
3 Installation_______________________________________________________________________________________5
4 Rigging components ______________________________________________________________________________6
5 Array configurations _____________________________________________________________________________ 10
6 Service and support______________________________________________________________________________ 22
7 CE declaration of conformity_______________________________________________________________________24

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
3
1. Introduction__________________________________________________
Dear customer,
Congratulations on your purchase of an Alcons Audio LR18 line array loudspeaker and thank you for your confidence in Alcons products. We are very honoured
to welcome you to the growing family of Alcons ambassadors!
For your safety, please read the Important safety instructions and the precautions section before rigging a loudspeaker array.
General features
The LR18 has the following features:
A unique seamless arrayability up to/beyond 20kHz.
Symmetrical 90° dispersion in the non-coupling plane.
High-performance line-array system for even demanding applications.
Non-compressed 1:1 HiFi-quality sound reproduction.
Intuitive predictable linear response behavior and identical tonal balance at any SPL.
7” pro-ribbon HF section with exceptional intelligibility and “throw”.
Maximum dynamic headroom reserve with up to 90% less distortion.
Fully coherent and symmetric pattern control in horizontal and vertical plane.
SIS™ pre-wired for very high system damping and further reduced distortion.
All Neodymium drivers for excellent performance-to-weight ratio.
LR18 rigging features
The trapezoidal cabinet is fitted with integrated mounting hardware, enabling angle-setting on the cabinets, without lifting the array, resulting in safer and faster
set-up with minimal handling. The rigging system supports different kinds of array assembling and has a working load limit of 24x LR18, 32x LB18 or 12x LR18B
cabinets under 10:1 safety.
Manual
This manual is written in a compact and easy readable way. You can contact Alcons Audio for more in-depth information on different items or situations

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
4
2. Important safety instructions and precautions _____________________
Read this manual
1. Follow all safety instructions as well as the warning messages.
2. Never incorporate equipment or accessories not approved by Alcons Audio.
3. Read all the related product information before using the system.
4. Work with qualified personnel for rigging the system.
5. Installation should only be carried out by qualified personnel who are familiar with the rigging techniques and safety recommendations stated in this
manual.
6. Ensure health and safety during installation and setup.
7. All persons must wear protective headgear and footwear at all times. Under no circumstances personnel is allowed to climb into a loudspeaker assembly.
8. Respect the Working Load Limit (WLL) of third party equipment.
9. Alcons Audio is not responsible for any rigging equipment and accessories provided by third party manufacturers. Verify that the Working Load Limit
(WLL) of the suspension points, chain hoists and all additional hardware rigging accessories is respected.
10. Respect the maximum configurations and the recommended safety level.
11. For safety issue, respect the maximum configurations outlined in this manual. To check the conformity of any configuration in regards with the safety level
recommended by Alcons Audio.
12. Be cautious when flying a loudspeaker array. Always verify that no one is standing underneath the loudspeaker array when it is being raised or lowered.
As the array is being raised, check each individual element to make sure that it is securely fastened to the adjacent element.
13. Never leave the array unattended during the installation process. As a general rule Alcons Audio recommends the use of safety slings at all times.
14. Be cautious when ground-stacking a loudspeaker array.
15. Do not stack the loudspeaker array on unstable ground or surface. If the array is stacked on a structure, platform, or stage,
always check that the latter can support the total weight of the array. As a general rule, Alcons Audio recommends the use of safety straps at all times.
16. Take into account the wind effects on dynamic load.
17. When a loudspeaker assembly is deployed in an open air environment, wind can produce dynamic stress to the rigging components and suspension
points. If the wind force exceeds 6 Beaufort scale, lower down and/or secure the loudspeaker array.
The exclamation point within a triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating
instructions in the literature accompanying the product.

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
5
3. Installation___________________________________________________
Unpacking
Carefully open the shipping carton and inspect all the parts. Every Alcons product is thoroughly tested and inspected before leaving the factory and should arrive
in perfect condition. If you find any damage, notify the shipping company immediately. Only you, the consignee, may initiate a claim for shipping damage. Be
sure to save all packing materials for the carrier’s inspection.

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
6
4. Rigging components __________________________________________
LR18 loudspeaker
1) LR18/ LB18 cabinet LR18 cabinet (shown)
2) Front coupler front couplers, lockable with quick release pin
3) Bar handles Handles in the cabinet ensure easy handling
4) Pin angle setting Pin determines the angle between the cabinets
5) Angle arm + lever Lever to turn the angle arm
6) Signal input/ link Input/ link for the audio signal
7) Angle frame This frame holds features for the angle setting and coupling
1
2
6
3
3
7
5
4
2

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
7
4. Rigging components __________________________________________
LR18B loudspeaker
1) LR18B cabinet LR18B cabinet shown, without front
2) Coupler Rotatable couplers, lockable with quick release pin
3) Bar handles Handles in the cabinet ensure easy handling
4) Bottom connector Connection with two holes, enabling a 2,5° splay angle
1
3
2
4

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
8
4. Rigging components __________________________________________
GRD18
The GRD18 enables the LR18 line-array modules and the LB18 line-array
extension modules to be flown and ground stacked. The grid can be suspended
from multiple hoist positions on top of the grid or by means of a central “single pick-
point” for smaller arrays; all points 14mm/0.55-in for 1,5T shackles. It has a
mounting position and through hole for the Teqsas laser/ inclinometer.
The GRD18 is certified for a safety-rating of 10:1, for twenty-four (24) cabinets
LR18, or thirty-two (32) cabinets LB18 *.
GRD18B
The GRD18B enables the LR18 line-array modules, the LB18 line-
array extension modules and LR18B line-array bass modules to be
flown and ground stacked. The grid can be suspended from
multiple hoist options on top of the grid or with the central “single
pick-point” bar for smaller arrays (all points 14mm/0.55-in for 1,5T
shackles).The GRD18B has a weight of 26 kg / 57 lb and is
certified for a safety-rating of 10:1, for 24 cabinets LR18, 32
cabinets LB18, 12 cabinets LR18B * on the hoist positions on top of
the grid.
* (or equivalent weight in mixed configurations)

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
9
4. Rigging components __________________________________________
GRD18EXTBR
This is a “sliding” extension bar, which can be attached on top of the GRD18, to extend the
leverage capabilities of the GRD18, with larger centre-of-gravity (COG) array off-sets.
With the GRD18EXTBR mounted at the front side of the GRD18, the upward array tilt is
extended; With the GRD18EXTBR mounted at the rear side of the GRD18, the downward array
tilt is extended. The front and rear holes measure 14mm/0.55-in to facilitate 1,5T shackles.
Always use both quick release pins for the GRD18/ GRD18EXTBR connection.
PNCLMP
The PNCLMP can be used to suspend a LR18 array from a single point. The PNCLMP is attached with the
Quick Release pin to a GRD18 pickpoint. The load can be attached to an overhead Truss or bar with a tube
diameter of 51mm (2”). It can be horizontally adjusted and fixed. The max. allowed WLL is 250kg.

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
10
5. Array configurations___________________________________________
Cabinet connections LR18
Array assembling can be done in two ways: Caterpillar style or Pre-rig style hoisting. This is determined by the available space, time or available parts.
There are 10 user selectable logarithmic angles, which can be determined by the Alcons Ribbon Calculator™ simulation program. The angles are suitable for
both caterpillar and pre-rig style array flying.
The angle lay-out is pictured below left. The “P” indicates the position of the angle pin, when parking the angle arm. This bar is spring loaded and pops out when
the pin is removed from the “P” hole. The arrow curving along the large hole indicates that the angle arm can be adjusted using its small lever.
The picture in the middle shows the angle frame (7). The angle arm(5) has turned out of its
parking position. It has a slot for default array building. The adjacent hole can be used in ground
stack mode or when a array has to be made rigid. This hole has a white marked area for easy
pinning within the angle frame. When this mode is used, the cabinets cannot compress.
It is important to mention that the angle setting on the desired cabinet is done at the previous
cabinet. See the schematic picture below right .

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
11
5. Array configurations___________________________________________
Cabinet connections LR18B
LR18B has rotatable couplers, secured/ parked with a quick release pin. This pin is also used to make the connection to
the GRD18B or the adjacent cabinet.
It is also possible to use the LR18B as a single standing subwoofer. It then stands on its long or short side with slider
feet.
At the lower end of each bracket, there are two holes, which determines the splay angle 0° or 2.5°. This selection is be
made before hoisting. Only the front facing side needs to be selected. The back side is set at 0°.
LR18B can be flown in a cardioid setup,
using this method. There is a second NL4
Speakon connector mounted in the front
grill.
It is advised to use a separate cable
hang for the speaker cables, as the NL4
(front + rear) Speakon connectors
cannot take the entire cable weight.
A second GRD18B, under an LR18B (to
enable the connection to an LR18 array) is
connected with its top rotatable couplers
to the 0° holes on the LR18B cabinet. This
is also the setup for ground stacking
LR18B+LR18. See picture on the far right.

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
12
5. Array configurations___________________________________________
GRD18 options
The GRD18 has multiple mounting options. The picture on the
right shows the different pick-points for flying an array. The A1 &
A2 marked points are the default hoist points.
It is possible to use one pick point from the A1 linear pattern. Use
it only for max. 12x LR18/ 14x LB18 cabinets
When hanging a 12-24 LR18/ 14-32 LB18 array with 2 hoist
points, use the outermost front and rear A1 pick points.
In case of a permanent installation, combine points A1 and 2x A2
for a stable 3-point hang. Use 1,5T shackles at all times
A3 indicates the mounting position of an angle inclinometer. It has
a 4x ø4mm; 16.5mm x 108.8mm hole pattern for the Teqsas
laser/ inclinometer.
Hole A4 can be used for a cable sling attachment.
The 2 holes A5 will hold the connection pin between the LR18
angle arm and GRD18
The picture on the left shows the GRD18EXTBR detached from GRD18. It has to be mounted with 2x A7
pins to the GRD18/ GRD18B A1 hole pattern, at all times. Create max. spacing between these 2 pins to
spread the load on the GRD18/ GRD18B. A 1,5T “Green Pin” shackle should be used in both end holes
A6.

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
13
5. Array configurations___________________________________________
GRD18B options
The GRD18B has multiple mounting options. The picture
on the left shows the different pick-points for flying an
array. The A1 & A2 marked points are the default hoist
points.
It is also possible to use one pick point from the A1 linear
pattern. Use it only for max. 12x LR18/ 14x LB18 or 6
LR18B cabinets
When hanging a 12-24 LR18/ 14-32 LB18 or 8-12 LR18B
array with 2 hoist points, use the outermost front and rear
A1 pick points.
In case of a permanent installation, combine points A1 and
A2 for a stable 3 or 4-point hang. Use 1,5T shackles at all
times
A3 indicates the mounting position of an angle
inclinometer. It has a 4x ø4mm; 16.5mm x 108.8mm hole
pattern for the Teqsas laser/ inclinometer.
The 2 holes A5 will hold the connection pin between the
LR18 angle arm and GRD18B
A8 marks the angle arm which can connect to the bottom
connection points on the LR18 and is pinned by G1. Turn
the arms horizontally into their recesses and lock with the
G1 pins, when using GRD18B as a top grid.
G2 connects to the front coupling of a LR18, using the bottom hole.
Pin both holes when connecting a LR18B with its couplers and pins to the top GR18B

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
14
5. Array configurations___________________________________________
GRD18 options
The schematic picture below shows the possible array hang options a-d and stack arrangement e with LR18/ LB18. The options also apply to GRD18B+LR18
As stated earlier, the array angles can be determined through the Alcons Ribbon Calculator™ simulation program.
When ground stacking (e), ensure that the centre of gravity is well within the grid’s base area.
The picture below shows the dimensions in mm of the GRD18 at the different extendable positions of the GRD18EXTBR extender bar.

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
15
5. Array configurations___________________________________________
GRD18B options
The schematic picture below shows the possible array hang options f-h and stack arrangement i & j with LR18B and LR18/ LB18.
Attaching LR18 to LR18B (flying or stacking) requires a second GRD18B (h). This is due to the fact that the LR18 has 3 pick points and LR18B a 4 pick points
set-up. LR18B can therefore be mounted 180° to the adjacent LR18B cabinet, creating a cardioid setup (f-g). Always attach each pick-point on GRD18B with 2
pins to the top couplers of the LR18B.
Placing the pin to the front bottom hole of the LR18B allows a 2,5° splay angle between the LR18B cabinets (g). This creates a curve in the LR18B array, which
gives a better alignment to an adjacent, curved LR18 array.

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
16
5. Array configurations___________________________________________
LR18 transport and array building options
There are two transport/ array building options available for LR18/ LB18.
Caterpillar style:
All LR18’s are connected horizontally/ face-down
on 3-pack dollies. Angle-setting can only be done
in the area of the array that is in full compress
state, from where LR18’s are pulled up.
FC3LR18CAT is used for this style.
It is not possible to use LR18B with this
building option.

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
17
5. Array configurations___________________________________________
LR18 transport and array building options
Pre-rig style:
All LR18(B) cabinets are connected vertically/ face-forward. This saves building space and enables pre-flight angle-setting. Tilting the already flown array on top
of the pre-rigged array requires two motors, as the array needs to be dropped with the rear-side as low as possible, to be able to connect the rear
latches. FC3LR18PRRG is used with this style (left). LR18B is transported on the PRRGLR18B; with a max. of 3 cabinets (right).

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
18
5. Array configurations___________________________________________
Caterpillar style array assembling and hoisting
The numbers in the text below, correspond with the LR18 rigging components overview pictured earlier.
Shown above depicts array building, caterpillar style. Shown with 1 hoist, 1x GRD18 and 6x LR18 cabinets on 2x FC3LR18CAT flight-case dollies.
Start with attaching the GRD18 to the first cabinet on the FC3LR18CAT wheel dolly (A). Make sure that the following dolly is lined up correctly, with the arrow
pointing towards GRD18. Attach the second dolly to the previous one, using the front couplers (B). Attach the hoist to the correct pick-point on the GRD18.
Connect the necessary cabling to the signal input/ link (6) connectors. Use a sling from the grid for a tension free cable hang. Start hoisting until the first cabinets
compress (C). Take the first dolly away for storage. Pull the angle setting pins (4) out and make the correct angles using the angle arm (5). These angles are
determined by the Alcons Ribbon Calculator™ simulation program. Continue doing this until all angles are set. Raise the entire array from the last wheel dolly
(D). Be aware that wheel dollies can ride away from the building area as the last module detaches.
Landing the array caterpillar style
Ensure that the wheel dollies are correctly lined up under the array, with the arrows pointing to the front face of the array. Land the bottom pins of the front
couplers into the recess of the dolly frame. When the bottom cabinets compress, take out the angle setting pins (4). Now the array can flatten out onto the wheel
dollies. Continue doing this with all cabinets. When the complete array is stretched out on the ground, take off all cabling and pull out the front coupling pin
between the first and second wheel dolly. Then return all angle arms (5) in their parking positions. Now the FC3LR18CAT cases can be closed up and
transported.

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
19
5. Array configurations __________________________________________
Pre-rig style array assembling and hoisting
With this method of array building the angle setting can be done at the warehouse or on-site. Also build space is kept to a minimum.
It is preferable to use two motor hoists, when building large arrays.
The numbers in the description below, correspond with the LR18 rigging components overview pictured earlier.
Use slow speed or speed-controllable chain hoists. Avoid any form of excessive dynamic loading to the array
assembly

Rigging manual LR18 Rev. 1.5
20
5. Array configurations___________________________________________
Pre-rig style array assembling and hoisting
This description features a 6 piece array connected to GRD18
This procedure is also used when a LR18B section is used in the array using GRD18B
Take of the top-head from the FC3LR18. Attach the GRD18(B) to the top cabinet and secure the hoist(s) to the correct
pick-point of the array (E).
Ensure that the correct angles are set. As mentioned earlier, this is determined by the Alcons Ribbon Calculator™
simulation program.
Lift the 3 pcs array from the case wheel dolly and let it suspend above the next FC3LR18 transport case (F-G).
Lower the bottom cabinet couplers (2) over the top ones of the top cabinet. Adjacent cabinets can go -10° in the vertical
plane. See picture on the right. There is a small notch within the bracket to restrict further movement. Pin the couplers
with the corresponding quick release pins.
To make the inter 3pcs angle connection, lower the rear side of the array (I). The cabinet compression ensures that the
angle can be set with the angle arm (5) in the angle frame (7) and lock with pin angle setting (4). The completed 6 piece
array can now be hoisted and be complemented with all the cabling (J). Use a cable sling from GRD18(B) for a tension
free cable hang. Make the correct total array angle with the dual hoists and go to the desired height.
Landing the array pre-rig style
Ensure that the FC3LR18PRRG wheel dolly is correctly lined up under the array. Remove all cabling when that is possible. Land the bottom pins of the front
couplers into the recess of the dolly frame. Let the bottom 3 cabinets compress, take out the angle setting pin (4), between the bottom 3
rd
and 4
th
cabinet.
Disconnect the front couplers and hoist the raised array a bit. Continue doing this with the last 3 piece array. Take off GRD18(B) an put all angle arms(5) into
their parking positions.