Alcons QRP40 User manual
product manual
QRP40
full range point source column
evolutionary audio solutions™
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 3
1. Introduction
Dear customer,
Congratulations on your purchase of an Alcons Audio QRP40 column array system, and thank you for your confidence in Alcons products.
We are very honoured to welcome you to the growing family of Alcons ambassadors!
The Alcons systems are handmade with pride in The Netherlands, combining the latest production techniques and technologies with dedication and
traditional craftsmanship.
Ever since its founding in 2002, the Alcons Audio team has been striving for the best possible sound reproduction for any type of source material and in any
size of application.To get the best performance out of your Alcons system, please read the precautions section in this manual before installing and operating.
We wish you many happy listening hours!
With best regards from the Alcons team,
Tom H. Back
Managing Director
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 4
2. Product Description
QRP40 - point source column
The QRP40/90 is a 2-way column loudspeaker to be used as vertical sound system, for both permanent and portable applications. Its slim design packs a perfectly
natural, dynamic sound reproduction with superb intelligibility, coverage and throw.
It is specifically designed for applications where ultimate fidelity response needs to be projected with a very precise coverage, ideal in acoustically challenging
environments, or applications where intelligibility-over-distance is required.
Loaded with the RBN1203 12” / 30cm pro-ribbon driver on a “Morpher” lens, the system offers an exceptional, SPL-independent throw-efficiency and projection
control, due to the pro-ribbon’s all-natural cylindrical (isophasic) wavefront. The patented (90-degrees) horizontal dispersion offers a consistent audience coverage
up to the highest frequencies.
Its fast impulse response, “compression-less” principle and unusual high peak power handling of (2000W @ 200ms) cater for a perfect intelligibility from the lowest
to the highest SPL with a 1:15 dynamic range, while offering a maximum “gain-before-feedback”.
The RBN1203 driver is mounted in a co-axial speaker configuration with eight woofers in a sealed cabinet. The custom-design 5” woofers feature Active Coil™
technology for extremely low-distortion LF reproduction, a perfect match with the MHF pro-ribbon technology. The acoustic length assists the QRP40 in an
extended vertical projection control in the low-mid frequency range, at the same time enabling a smooth but powerful roll-off to additional subwoofers.
The system brings the unsurpassed clear, dynamic and ultra-low distortion Alcons signature sound in a very slim and unobtrusive package; The M10 mounting
points on top and bottom and the M6 universal mounting bracket pattern on the back, together with the optional ACO™ color scheme provides for an
inconspicuous, low-profile presence in any application.
The QRP40 is powered and controlled by the ALC amplified loudspeaker controller; Through the integrated VHIR™ processing, audiophile amplifier stages and
Signal Integrity Sensing™ feedback circuit, the ALC offers QRP40-specific drive processing, delivering absolute maximum sound quality with increased headroom
and utmost operation reliability and flexibility.
• Point-source column system with high-Q directivity for increased projection
control
• 1:1 non-compressed linear sound reproduction, with up to 90% less distortion
• Fully symmetric and coherent horizontal and vertical pattern control
• RBN1203 12” pro-ribbon HF driver with exceptional intelligibility and “throw”
• Woofers with Active Coil™ technology for further reduced LMF distortion
• Shallow form factor and ACO™ color option for unobtrusive deployment
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 5
3. Precautions
Read this manual carefully before installing and operating your system. Retain this documentation for future reference.
1. Due to the extremely low distortion performance of the Alcons sound systems, the experienced sound pressure level is higher than it appears. Prolonged
exposure to high sound pressure levels can lead to hearing damage; Protective gear should always be available.
2. Work with qualified personnel for installing the system; Installation should only be carried out by qualified personnel who are familiar with the techniques,
procedures and safety recommendations stated in this manual.
3. Ensure health and safety during installation and operation; All persons must wear protective headgear and footwear at all times.
4. Check conformity of any configuration and respect the maximum allowed values and the safety level recommended by Alcons Audio outlined in this manual.
5. Verify that the Working Load Limit (WLL) of all mounting hardware and accessories is respected. Alcons Audio is not responsible for any equipment and
accessories provided by third party manufacturers.
6. Ensure that the surface is suitable for mounting a loudspeaker; Do not mount the loudspeaker assembly on unstable ground or surface. As a general rule,
Alcons Audio recommends the use of safety straps at all times.
7. Do not make connections with the loudspeaker to the amplifier while it is switched on. Always shut off the amplifier when making connections to it, and mute the
inputs when making connections to preceding equipment in the chain.
8. Do not operate the system in wet environments and protect it from excessive water or sun / UV exposure. The system has an IP43 rating and should be treated
accordingly.
9. Regularly check the loudspeaker for damage to the transducers, cabinet and mounting points, as this can severely compromise the system’s performance. Refer
10. Save the packing material. Should you ever need to ship the loudspeaker, use only the original packing.
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 6
4. Connection
The QRP40 is a passive-filtered loudspeaker and features a high quality crossover network. As such, the QRP40 requires one processing/amplifier channel for
amplification. To activate the Signal Integrity Sensing™ circuit in the amplified loudspeaker controller (ALC), the use of a 4-core loudspeaker cable with NL4
Speakon® connectors is required;
The two extra wires are used for voltage sensing at the loudspeaker terminals. The output+ and sense+ wires are connected together at the loudspeaker+
terminal, and the output- and sense- wires are connected together at the loudspeaker- terminal.
The Speakon®connector is wired as follows:
Speakon®male plug viewed from the wiring side
1+ Output+
1 - Ouput –
2+ Sense +
2 - Sense -
4. Connection
If you do not want to use the SIS feature at all, the sense wires should be connected to the output wires at the amplifier output in the Speakon® connector.
Warning!
Never connect the sense+ to the output- terminal or vice versa, or short circuit both sense wires! Since you are disabling the amplifier’s feedback network, the
amplifier can produce a large amount of DC at its output. Through its protection circuitry, the Sentinel will shut-off and will not pass any audio.
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 7
Loudspeaker connection without SIS™ Normal loudspeaker operation
Use bridge mode when you want to combine the power of amplifier channel
1+2 or 3+4 into one loudspeaker load.
In bridge mode connect your loudspeaker with or without SIS to the channel 1
and channel 2 outputs (or channel 3 and 4) as shown above. Sentinel 3 only!
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 8
4. Connection
For a given loudspeaker impedance, the proportional power loss as a function of cable length and cable gauge is given in the next table:
To calculate the SPL losses from these percentages in dB’s, the following equation may be used:
dB loss = 20 * log(1 – (%loss/100))
In the next table a few percentages are converted to dBs:
The QRP40 has a 4 ohms impedance which makes parallel connection possible of multiple cabinets.
It is technically possible to connect up to 2 QRP40 cabinets on one amp channel, with a resulting impedance of 2 ohms;Typically, we recommend not going any
lower in impedance than 2.7 ohms, which means one QRP40; However, in non-high-power applications, the parallel connection down to 2 ohms impedance would
not be too much of a compromise.
8Ω4Ω
1.5 mm² 2.5 m² 4 mm² 6 mm² 1.5 mm² 2.5 m² 4 mm² 6 mm²
5 meters 1.4 % 0.8 % 0.5 % 0.4 % 2.8 % 1.7 % 1.1 % 0.7 %
10 meters 2.8 % 1.7 % 1.1 % 0.7 % 5.4 % 3.3 % 2.1 % 1.4 %
15 meters 4.1 % 2.5 % 1.6 % 1.1 % 7.8 % 4.9 % 3.1 % 2.1 %
20 meters 5.4 % 3.3 % 2.1 % 1.4 % 10.2 % 6.4 % 4.1 % 2.8 %
25 meters 6.6 % 4.1 % 2.6 % 1.7 % 12.4 % 7.8 % 5.0 % 3.4 %
30 meters 7.8 % 4.9 % 3.1 % 2.1 % 14.5 % 9.3 % 6.0 % 4.1 %
40 meters 10.2 % 6.4 % 4.1 % 2.8 % 18.5 % 12.0 % 7.8 % 5.4 %
50 meters 12.4 % 7.8 % 5.0 % 3.4 % 22.1 % 14.5 % 9.6 % 6.6 %
% loss dB loss
1 % 0.1 dB
2 % 0.2 dB
5 % 0.4 dB
10 % 0.9 dB
15 % 1.4 dB
20 % 1.9 dB
25 % 2.5 dB
30 % 3.1 dB
35 % 3.7 dB
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 9
5. Installation
The QRP40 is to be driven by the ALC controller-amplifier for full system performance, delivering maximum sound quality with increased headroom and utmost
operation reliability and flexibility.
The operation reliability is guaranteed by the advanced limiting algorithms in the DSP; The values of the dedicated preset are based on the QRP40 system
surviving a 1000 hours durability test in the R&D test bunker at Alcons Audio HQ.
On the ALC, the correct QRP40 preset needs to be selected. Go to the “Preset” tab; tap the button on the channel you wish to operate the QRP40 with;
A selection box will appear with the different series groups.
(See fig 1)
With the encoder select the “Q-series”; then select “QRP40”;
(See fig 2)
A confirm box will appear. Then select the version you will be using, 90-degree or 120-degree.
(See fig 3)
. Repeat these steps for your 2nd loudspeaker
(See fig 4)
Fig 1. Select loudspeaker 1 > Select Q-series
Fig 3. Select loudspeaker 1 > Confirm QRP40, be aware
of possible audio interruptions
Fig 2. Select loudspeaker 1 > Select QRP40
Fig 4. Select loudspeaker 2 >
Repeat the previous three steps for your 2nd loudspeaker
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 10
5. Installation
Now the QRP40 is dedicated to this channel; Next you can make a choice of filter settings within the preset: 80Hz high-pass, 100Hz high-pass or full-range
operation.
The Alcons VHIR™ processing ensures a flat phase response down to 200Hz with minimal latency; This enables the user to select any Alcons subwoofer to
seamlessly work with the QRP40, with optimized phase response.
Optional settings in combination with a subwoofer (QB363 in example): The QRP40 preset can be set on high-pass filtering at 100Hz, depending on the
requirement (typically, the 100Hz setting is preferred in higher SPL applications).
To match the QRP40 and obtain a flat system response , the QB363 preset needs to be set on the same frequency preset, 100Hz.
In applications where the QRP40 is (less ideally) positioned further away from the subwoofer, the QRP40 preset may be set on full-range, with the accompanying
sub set on 80Hz.
(See fig 6)
Fig 5. Range selection
Select fullrange or HP at 80Hz or 100 Hz Fig 6. Low-pass filtering
Optional setting for low-pass filtering at 80 Hz or 100 Hz
Optional settings:
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 11
5. Installation
The dedicated factory QRP40 preset ensures a flat frequency response; With the equalizer and delay sections in the ALC, the performance of the QRP40 can be
adjusted to the environment and application.
(See fig 7)
These settings can be stored in the on-board user-preset bank.
Fig 7. EQ
Frequency adjustment per channel Fig 8. Delay
Delay adjusting to fit the environment
Warning!
Always make sure the correct system preset has been selected, before unmuting / starting-up the system, as operating with incorrect settings can severely damage
the loudspeaker and voids warranty.
EQ and Delay settings:
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 12
6. Operation
The QRP40/90 is equally suitable for mobile deployment as well as xed installation. Due to the wide 90 degree x narrow 20 degree HF dispersion, horizontal
placement is less critical to still obtain a good audience coverage; However, vertically a correct speaker placement and focus is critical for an optimal performance
with minimal spill on oor and ceiling, resulting in an excellent front-to-rear intelligibility.
90°
20° vertical dispersion in reverberant room = audience enjoying clear intelligible sound, even at farther distance
Constant horizontal directivity = consistent full frequency audience coverage
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 13
6. Operation
The QRP40’s slim cabinet shape makes for a low-prole, unobtrusive mounting. The M10 mounting points on top and bottom and the M6 universal mounting bracket
pattern on the back enable the use of swivel brackets, stand mount, shoulder eye bolt and microphone stand deployment to get the best positioning for the QRP40.
Mounting option examples:
Stack mount w. pan
pin 35mm with M10 thread
(PINM10) for QB363 stack
Standmount non pan/tilt
reducer ange 36mm to
M10 thread (STMTM10F)
Stand mount w. pan /tilt
bracket for tripod use
(BRKQRP40 + STMT)
Stack mount
base plate for stable flat-
surface stacking (QBASE)
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 14
6. Operation
The QRP40’s slim cabinet shape makes for a low-prole, unobtrusive mounting. The M10 mounting points on top and bottom and the M6 universal mounting bracket
pattern on the back enable the use of swivel brackets, stand mount, shoulder eye bolt and microphone stand deployment to get the best positioning for the QRP40.
Mounting option examples:
Truss clamp
M10 w. thread length max.
20mm (0.8”) below clamp
Fly mount
11° up/down tilt single point
(GRDQRP40)
Wall mount w. pan/tilt
rear mount adapter for
using K&M 24481
(KMADAP1))
Wall mount w. pan
35° left/right panning. Allows
narrow wall mounting
(WMT2)
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 15
7. Accessories & options
Mounting options:
BRKQRP40
The BRKQRP40 is a swivel yoke for a single QRP40.
The yoke is connected to the cabinet with four M6
bolts on the rear of the cabinet.
The bracket can be fitted with an optional truss
clamp, TV-spigot or STMT stand-mount adapter,
with M10 (2) or M12 (1) bolt/nut connection.
The BRKQRP40 is certified for a safety-rating of
10:1, for one cabinet QRP40 and has a weight of 4,8
kg / 10.6 lb.
STMTM10F
The STMTM10F is a 36mm stand
mount sleeve, enabling speakers to
be used on standard tripod stands or
mounting accessories with a diameter
of 35mm. It can be directly mounted
on the cabinet, with the M10 thread
connection. Includes a small diameter
grip knob and a large flange for
extended stability.
PINM10
The PINM10 is a 35mm pin, to be
used for stacking one QRP40 on top
of a QB363 sub, while enabling full
360° panning. The PINM10 is
connected to the cabinet by an M10
thread.
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 16
7. Accessories & options
Mounting options:
QBASE
The QBASE plate enables the QRP40
to be stacked directly on any flat
surface, with extended stability. The
QRP40 is connected to the QBASE by
two (2) M10x25 bolts.
GRDQRP40
The GRDQRP40 is a bumper to fly the
QRP40 from a single pick-point, with
11° up and down tilt in 13 different
positions. The GRDQRP40 is
connected to the cabinet with two
integrated screw knobs.
KMADAP1
The KMADAP1 is an adapter bracket
for using the K&M bracket
accessories (K&M 24481) with the
QRP40.
WMT2
The WMT2 is a bracket for mounting
one QRP40 to a wall or column. It is
designed for “pan-only” application,
requiring a minimum of mounting
depth. WMT2 enables a 35° left and
right panning, with only 6cm / 2.36 in.
cabinet-to-wall depth. The WMT2 is
connected to the cabinet with four (4)
M6 bolts in a standard pattern.
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 17
7. Accessories & options
Transport options:ACO™ Colour option:
FC2QRP40
Flightcase for 2 pcs. QRP40
ACO™ (
Architect Colour Option)
The QRP20 can be finished in any of the 180+
colours from the European RAL™ colour scheme
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 18
QRP40 -
Front
QRP40 -
Rear
QRP40 - Side QRP40 -
Top / bottom
QRP40 - Front/s
ide
QRP40 product views
8. Specifications
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 19
8. Specifications
Technical specifications
Frequency response 71 Hz - 20.000 Hz (+/- 3 dB)
62 Hz - (+/- 10 dB)
Sensitivity nominal - QRP40/90 103 dB (200 Hz - 10 kHz)
Nominal impedance 4 ohms
Recommended drive Sentinel3 min.
Nominal SPL peak - QRP40/90 131 dB (Sentinel3 200 Hz - 10 kHz)
136 dB (Sentinel10 200 Hz - 10 kHz)
Dispersion H x V 90° x 20° (@ 20 kHz)
Physical specifications
System 2-way, full-range
Filtering passive
Driver LF 8x AMB5NDAIC-16 5”, sealed
Driver HF 1x RBN1203 12” pro-ribbon driver
Connectors 2x Speakon NL4 input/link
Physical dimensions mm inches
Height 1118 44.0
Width 161 6.3
Depth 236 9.3
Weight (approx.) 22 kg 48.5 lb
Warranty 6 years limited
QRP40 Product Manual V1.0 20
8. Specifications
Dimensional drawing
Drawing not to scale
Table of contents
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