array K KW8 User manual

KW8 Ver. 1.2
KW8
USER GUIDE
English

KW8 Ver. 1.2
2
TABLE of CoNTENTS
SYMBoLS ................................................................................ 3
1. INTRoDUCTIoN ..................................................................... 4
2. KEY fEATURES ...................................................................... 4
3. APPLICATIoNS....................................................................... 4
4. SAfETY INfoRMATIoN............................................................ 5
5. UNPACKING ......................................................................... 7
6. PRoDUCT ovERvIEw.............................................................. 8
6.1 MovEMENT ....................................................................................... 8
7. CoNNECTING THE UNIT .......................................................... 9
7.1 BACK PANEL CoNNECToRS .................................................................... 9
7.2 MAINS PowER CoNNECTIoN - voLTAGE SELECToR...................................... 9
7.3 AUDIo CoNNECTIoN .......................................................................... 11
7.4 DMX CoNNECTIoN ............................................................................. 11
7.5 vIDEo CoNNECTIoN ........................................................................... 12
8. DMX CHANNELS ................................................................... 13
8.1 DMX ADDRESSES ............................................................................... 13
8.2 DMX PRoToCoL SHEET ....................................................................... 14
9. INSTALLATIoN...................................................................... 15
10. SERvICE ............................................................................ 16
11. TECHNICAL SPECIfICATIoNS................................................... 17

KW8 Ver. 1.2
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This symbol alerts the user to the presence of recommendations about
product’s use and maintenance.
This symbol alerts the user to the presence of recommendations about the
product’s use and maintenance.
K-array declares that this device is in compliance with applicable CE
standards and regulations. Before putting the device into operation, please
observe the respective country-specific regulations!
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)
Please dispose of this product at the end of its operational lifetime by bringing
it to your local collection point or recycling center for such equipment.
This device complies with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive.
SYMBoLS
Warning: DANGEROUS VOLTAGE.
Terminals marked with this symbol carry a risk of electric shock, therefore
external wiring connected to these terminals requires installation by a
qualified professional or the use of ready-made leads or cords.

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1. INTRoDUCTIoN
2. KEY fEATURES
3. APPLICATIoNS
The Owl KW8 is a self powered audio moving head including a coaxial 8” transducer and a newly
built-in camera to allow users to accurately direct sound. This feature bridges the gap between AV in
a revolutionary concept. The Owl provides up to 500 W of power, 120 dB of SPL (continuos) and a
frequency range from 60 Hz to 19 kHz.
It is a perfect solution for a range of applications including live on-stage monitoring, theme park
installations, airports, train stations, DJ effects and theatre installations. However, the flexibility of
the Owl will offer an almost limitless number of solutions and, in some cases, reduce the amount of
speakers required for an installation.
The Owl is part of K-array’s portfolio of concert systems but was designed as an alternative solution
for the most ambitious projects. Its dedicated software gives you the ability to control the settings,
movement, sound and video together allowing you to create scenes and setups via DMX, audio balanced
signal and the HD-SDI onboard camera.
• Coaxial 8” transducer
• High performance 126 dB SPL (Peak)
• Self-powered
• Onboard camera
• Dedicated software to create scenes and fully control the speaker or speakers.
• Theme parks
• Public announcement speakers
• Installed AV yystems
• Special effects
• Stage and AV studio monitoring

KW8 Ver. 1.2
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This symbol alerts the user to the presence of
recommendations about the product’s use and
maintenance.
This symbol is intended to alert the user to the
presence of not isolated, dangerous voltage
within the product enclosure that may be of
magnitude to constitute a risk of electrical shock.
4. SAfETY INfoRMATIoN
Warning: failure to follow these safety instructions could result in fire,
shock or other injury or damage to the device or other property.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
• Read these instructions.
• Keep these instructions.
• Heed all warnings.
• Follow all instructions.
• Do not use this apparatus near water.
• Clean only with dry cloth.
• Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus
(including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has
two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third
grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided
plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
• Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
• Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
• Use only the cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table specified by the manufacturer or sold
with the apparatus.
• Use caution when moving the apparatus with the assistance of a cart to avoid injury
from tip-over.
• Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

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WARNING
• Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has
been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled
or objects have fallen into the apparatus, has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate
normally, or has been dropped.
• Since the device is a CLASS I apparatus, it must be connected only using an AC three-wire
grouding outlet. If your outlet isn’t grouded, contact a liscensed electrician to replace it with a
property grounded outlet.
• To reduce the risk of electric shock, unplug the AC mains connector before installing audio cable.
Reconnect the power cord only after making all signal connections. Do not use the product if the
power cord is broken or frayed. Protect the power cord from being walked upon or pinched.
• To completely disconnect this apparatus from the AC mains, disconnect the power supply cord
plug from the AC receptacle.
• Avoiding hearing damage. Professional loudspeakers are capable of producing extremely high
sound levels and should be used carefully. Never stand close to loudspeakers driven at high
volume. Set the volume to a safe level. You can adapt to a higher volume of sound that over time
may sound normal but can be damaging to your hearing. Hearing loss worsens after exposure to
a sound level of 90 dB or over for an extended period of time. If you experience ringing in your
ears or muffled speech, stop listening and have your hearing checked. The louder the volume, the
less time is required before your hearing could be affected.
• Voltage requirement. Make sure that the supplied voltage stays within the specified range. Verify
that your mains power connection satisfies the power ratings of the device.
• Only connect the power supply to an appropriate power outlet.
• Do not install the device in wet or humid locations without using weather protection.
• TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, do not expose this apparatus to rain or
moisture and objects filled with liquids, such as vases, should not be placed on this apparatus.
• The main plug of the power supply cord shall remain readily accessible.
CAUTION
• Choking Hazards. This device contains small parts, which may present a choking hazard to small
children. Keep the device and its accessories away from small children.
• It is important that loudspeaker systems are used in a safe manner.
• Do not make repairs yourself. Do not open the device, it contains potentially hazardous voltage
and there is risk of electrical shock. Never attempt to disassemble, repair or modify the system
yourself. Disassembling the unit may cause damage that is not covered under the warranty. The
device contains no user-serviceable parts. Repairs should only be performed by factory-trained
service personnel. Do not plug the power cord in if you suspect that your device needs service or
repair.

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5. UNPACKING
Each K-array speaker is built to the highest standard and thoroughly inspected before leaving the
factory. Upon arrival, carefully inspect the shipping carton, then examine and test your new product.
If you find any damage, immediately notify the shipping company. Only the consignee may file a
claim regarding the system’s electronic equipment.
• Sound distortion. Do not operate speakers for an extended period of time with sound distortion.
This is an indication of malfunction, which in turn can generate heat and result in a fire.
• Cooling. During use, it is normal for the device to get warm. The exterior of the device functions
as a cooling surface that transfers heat from inside the unit to the cooler air outside. The device
should be placed in a location that allows proper cooling. For example, the device shouldn’t
be placed near surfaces that can obstruct with the cooling of the rear panel’s radiators. When
operating, the device should not be cover with additional protections.
• Temperature. Operate the device in a place where the temperature is between -20°C and 35°C
(-4°F to 95°F). Avoid dramatic changes in temperature or humidity when using it, as condensation
may form on or within the device.
• Take care not to spill any food or liquid through the device’s grill. Do not attempt to dry the device
with an external heat source, such as a hair dryer.
• Carrying, handling and installing the device. The device contains sensitive components. Do not
drop, disassemble, open, crush, bend, deform, puncture, shred, incinerate, paint, or insert foreign
objects into it. If your device has been dropped or damaged unplug the power cable immediately.
• Set up. Set up your device on a stable retaining horizontal surface. If combined or mechanically
connected with other products, always verify the stability of the resulted system. Install the unit
only in a location that can structurally support the weight of the unit, far away from people who
can interfere with the stability of the system. In case of outdoor installation, protect the device
from rain and moisture. Assure that the wind does not interfere with the system’s stability,
taking extra securities like chains, weights, ropes or any other certified anchoring systems. Doing
otherwise may result in the unit falling down, causing personal injury or property damage or
even death. The system should only be suspended by qualified personnel following safe rigging
practices. Secure fixings to the building structure are vital. To clarify any doubt you may have,
seek help from architects, structural engineers or other specialists.
• This audio system is not intended for use in the operation of nuclear facilities, aircraft navigation
or communication systems, air traffic control systems,or for any other uses where the failure of
the audio system could lead to death, personal injury, or sever environmental damage.

KW8 Ver. 1.2
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Weight
10 kg (22.1 lbs)
6. PRoDUCT ovERvIEw
6.1 MovEMENT
180°
540°
WARNING. Do not obstruct the path of the speaker’s
movement!

5
4
3
2
1
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7. CoNNECTING THE UNIT
7.1 BACK PANEL CoNNECToRS
1) AUDIO INPUT. Female XLR for analog signal input.
2) AUDIO LINK. Male XLR parallel output providing a direct signal from the Audio Input.
3) DMX INPUT. Male XLR for DMX signal.
4) DMX LINK. Female XLR for DMX signal.
5) AC MAINS. PowerCon input for AC power.
6) VIDEO OUT. BNC connector for video signal output.
7.2 MAINS PowER CoNNECTIoN - voLTAGE SELECToR
All speakers and the connected audio equipment (mixing consoles, processors, etc.) must be connected
to the AC power distribution in a proper way, preserving AC line polarity and ground connection such
that all grounding points are connected to a single node or common point using the same cable
gauge as the neutral and line(s) cables. Bad grounding connections between speakers and the rest of
the audio system may produce noise, hum and/or serious damage to the input/output stages in the
system’s electronic equipment.
CAUTION. Before applying AC to any K-array self-powered
speaker, be sure that the voltage potential difference between
neutral and ground is less than 5 VAC.

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The KW8 operates safely and without audio discontinuity if the AC voltage stays within either of two
operating windows:
• 95-125 (voltage selector on 115 V)
• 195-250 V (voltage selector on 230 V), at 50 to 60Hz
The device is default set to be connected to 230 VAC mains power. To use the device on 115 VAC of
mains power you will need to move the voltage selector to the correct value before connecting. The
voltage selector is located at the bottom of the unit and can be switched using a flathead screwdriver.
CAUTION. Do not connect the system to AC mains power
exceeding 265 V. Doing so will cause significant damage to the
device and create serious risk for users!
115
230
115
230
VOLTAGE SELEC TOR

K-USB
PC connected via XLR cable + K-USB accessory
XLR cable
AUDIO SOURCE NEXT UNIT
XLR cable XLR cable
Linking the audio signal between the speakers
XLR cable NEXT UNIT
XLR cable
XLR cable
USB cable
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7.3 AUDIo CoNNECTIoN
The KW8 features a 3 pins XLR line input and a 3 pins XLR parallel output providing a direct signal
from the input. To form a daisy chain with multiple units, connect the mixer signal to the AUDIO IN
plug and connect the next unit by connecting the AUDIO OUT plug on the first unit to the AUDIO IN
plug of the second one.
7.4 DMX CoNNECTIoN
The unit operates using the digital DMX 512 (1990) signal. Connection between the computer and
the speaker or between speakers must be carried out using a two pair screened ø 0.5 mm cable with
XLR 3 pins connectors (same kind of cable used to connect the audio signal).
To connect the first unit to the computer over USB, you need the K-USB accessory (USB to Serial
Adapter). Connect the first unit to the next one by connecting the DMX OUT plug on the first unit to
the DMX IN plug of the second. This way, the units will form a cascade connection.

SDI to USB grabber
Camera connected via BNC cable + K-USB/SDI adapter
BNC cable
USB cable
2 (+)
3 (-)
1 (gnd)
120 Ω
DMX terminator
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For installations where long distance DMX cable connections are needed, we suggest using a DMX
terminator. Please note:
• The DMX terminator is a male XLR 3 pins connector with a 120 ohm resistor between pin 2 and
3.
• The DMX terminator must be plugged into the last unit (DMX OUT panel connector) of the DMX.
line.
7.5 vIDEo CoNNECTIoN
The K-OWL features a HD-SDI camera supporting multiple output formats. As default, the camera
outputs a digital HD-SDI signal at 1080 Progressive (25 fps). If an analog signal or a different
resolution of the camera is desired, please contact the official K-array distributor in your country.
To connect the camera to your computer running the OWL-Manager software, you need a SDI to USB
grabber, as shown in the scheme below. We recommend using the K-USB/SDI accessory.

UP
DOWN
ENTER
MENU
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8. DMX CHANNELS
The unit operates using the digital DMX 512 (1990) signal. Both movement and some audio parameters
can be controlled by the 11 channels available.
8.1 DMX ADDRESSES
In order to use the unit in 11 channels, set the following addresses on the speakers connected in the
same DMX network:
K-OWL 1 A001
K-OWL 2 A012
K-OWL 3 A023
K-OWL 4 A034
K-OWL ... A... just add 11 to the previous address
To select the addresses, proceed as follow:
1. Press the UP-DOWN key until you reach the required DMX channel. The numbers on the display
will begin to flash (but the new DMX address hasn’t been set yet).
2. Press ENTER to confirm your selection. The numbers on the display will stop flashing and the
speaker will be set to the new DMX address.
Note: If the display showing the DMX address flashes, then one of the following errors has occurred:
- DMX signal not present
- DMX address not valid
- DMX reception problem

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8.2 DMX PRoToCoL SHEET
DMX
channel Parameter DMX range value Function
1 Pan coarse (msb) 0-255 Pan value (0° to 540°)
2 Pan fine (lsb) 0-255 Fine adjustment of pan value
3 Tilt coarse (msb) 0-255 Tilt value (0° to 180°)
4 Tilt fine (lsb) 0-255 Fine adjustment of tilt value
5Speed
0-10 Standard speed movement
11-25 Fast speed movement
26-127 Vector mode from fast to slow
128-247 Variable time reaction to DMX signal (fast to slow)
248-255 Slow reaction time to DMX signal
6Volume 0 -255 Volume (0 dB to -∞)
7Coverage 0Wide coverage
255 Narrow coverage
8Delay
0 Delay = 0 ms
13 Delay ≈ 1 ms
24 Delay ≈ 2 ms
36 Delay ≈ 3 ms
48 Delay ≈ 4 ms
61 Delay ≈ 5 ms
73 Delay ≈ 6 ms
85 Delay ≈ 7 ms
96 Delay ≈ 8 ms
108 Delay ≈ 9 ms
121 Delay ≈ 10 ms
132 Delay ≈ 11 ms
143 Delay ≈ 12 ms
157 Delay ≈ 13 ms
168 Delay ≈ 14 ms
179 Delay ≈ 15 ms
193 Delay ≈ 16 ms
203 Delay ≈ 17 ms
215 Delay ≈ 18 ms
227 Delay ≈ 19 ms
240 Delay ≈ 20 ms
251 Delay ≈ 21 ms
9 HP Filter 0 High Pass filter active (150 Hz)
255 Full Range
10 Reserved --- ---
11 Reserved --- ---

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9. INSTALLATIoN
KW8 may be either floor or ceiling mounted.
For floor-mounted installations, the KW8 is supplied with four rubber mounting feet on the base. Install
the unit only on flat surfaces. Do not install the unit on uneven ground or platforms.
For ceiling-mounted installations, four quarter-turn Fast Lock connections,located on the base of the
unit, allow the KW8 to hang by the Fast Lock “C” clamps provided with the product. As shown in the
picture below, two different orientations are available.
The supporting structure from which the unit is hung must be capable of bearing the weight of the unit
and must be sufficiently rigid so that it doesn’t move or shake while the KW8 is moving.
For ceiling-mounted installations, we recommend the use of a safety
cable or chain to connect the KW8 and the suspension truss to avoid
an accident should the main fixing point fail and the fixture fall. Ensure
the iron cable or chain can bear the weight of the entire unit. You may
attach the safety cable/chain to the attachment point located on the
base of the fixture, as shown in the picture above.
Safety cable

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10. SERvICE
To obtain service:
• Contact the official K-array distributor in your country. Your local distributor will direct you to the
appropriate service center.
• If you are calling for service, please have the serial number(s) of the unit(s) available for reference.
Ask for Customer Service and be prepared to describe the problem clearly and completely.
• If the problem cannot be resolved over the phone, you may be required to send the unit in for
service. In this instance, you will be provided with an RA (Return Authorization) number which should
be included on all shipping documents and correspondence regarding the repair. Shipping charges are
the responsibility of the purchaser.
Any attempt to modify or replace components of the device will invalidate your warranty. Service must
be performed by an authorized K-array service center.
Cleaning:
Use only a soft, dry cloth to clean the apparatus. Do not use any solvents, chemicals, or
cleaning solutions containing alcohol, ammonia, or abrasives. Do not use any sprays near the
product or allow liquids to spill into any openings.

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11. TECHNICAL SPECIfICATIoNS
ACOUSTICS
Power handling 300 + 50 W
Max power 500 (1)
Frequency range (-10 dB) 70 Hz – 19 KHz (2)
SPL 1W/1mt 96 dB (3)
Maximum SPL 120 dB (cont.) – 126 dB (peak) (4)
COVERAGE
Horizontal 70°
Vertical 70°
CROSSOVER
Type DSP Controlled
Frequency 1200 Hz
TRANSDUCERS
Type
8” Neodymiun magnet Woofer with 2.5”
voice coil
Neodymium magnet Compression Driver with
1” Voice Coil
AUDIO IN/OUT
Analog connectors 1 male + 1 female 3-pin balanced XLR
REMOTE CONTROL INPUT
Connectors 1 USB
VIDEO
Connectors 1 x BNC output
Camera
HD-SDI Mini Camera
Wide angle lens
Full HD
Sensor: Sony Exmor CMOS 2.1 Megapixel
DMX
Connector 1 male + 1 female 3-pin balanced XLR
Channels 11
AMPLIFIER
Type 1 module class D - DSP controlled
Nominal Power Output 1 X 450 W @ 4 Ω1% THD + NOISE (5)
Protections Dynamic Limiter , Over Current , Over Temp.
Short Circuit
Frequency response 10 Hz – 25 kHz (+/- 3 dB) for 1W @ 8 Ω
Damping factor @ 100 Hz >500
THD+N 1kHz,1 W 0.010%
AC POWER
Connector 1 x PowerCon
Nominal voltage 115 / 230 Vac
Operating Range 85 - 130 Vac 60Hz / 190 - 240 Vac 50Hz
I. Nom 2 A at 115 Vac / 1 A at 230 Vac
CONSUMPTION
Efficiency >80% (typical)
1/8 rated power
(pink noise)@ 4Ω110 W
CERTIFICATION
IP 20
PHYSICAL
Dimensions 35.9 cm x 45.9 cm x 21.8 cm
(14.1“ x 18.1” x 8.6“)
Weight 10 kg (22.05 lb)
Notes for data
1. Maximum RMS applicable power for a musical signal. The reference signal is the one proposed by EIAJ standard
2. With dedicated preset;
3. Measured @4 mt then scaled @1 mt;
4. Measured with musical signal
5. EIAJ Test Standard, 1KHz, 1%THD
New materials and design are introduced into existing products without previous notice. Present systems may differ in some respects from those presented in this
catalogue.
The contents of this manual are furnished for informational purposes only. K-array s.u.r.l. assumes no responsibility for any errors or
inaccuracies that may appear in this manual. K-array s.u.r.l. reserves the right to make modifications without prior notice.