Cerwin-Vega CVA-121 User manual

ActiveSeries

For more than 50 years, Cerwin-Vega! has set the standard
for high performance professional sound reinforcement.
Cerwin-Vega does it again with the introduction of the
Active Series. Simply put, if you make your living as DJ,
performing artist, or production company, this series is
for you. If you are tired of compromising performance,
particularly great bass output for portability, Cerwin-Vega
Active is what you’ve been waiting for.
Meet the family
Cerwin-Vega Active is a system approach to live sound, building on
Cerwin-Vega’s proud legacy as the dominant force in low-frequency sound
reproduction. By combining, and precisely matching speaker, enclosure
and amplification technology into one package, Cerwin-Vega engineers
have maximized the overall acoustic performance of each speaker, while
eliminating the, set-up complexities that usually come from such high
performance components.
Because of our heritage in bass performance,
the series is built on a foundation that includes
two available active subwoofers, including a
massive 21 inch unit. Regardless of application,
you’ll know the venue will be covered in deep,
clean, thunderous bass. The Cerwin-Vega
Active Series doesn’t stop there. Understanding
that overall coverage and upper frequency
accuracy are as important as the reproduction
of tremendous bass, the active subwoofers are
paired to an accurate, active dual 8-inch full
range speaker. The perfect partner to the active
subs, the dual 8-inch 3-way provides mid-range
and upper end definition typically reserved for
studio monitors.
If acoustic performance and portability weren’t
enough, one of the important aspects of the
Active Series is upgradeability. Start off small
and build as you go. The Cerwin-Vega Active
Series provides a building block approach that
grows as your needs do. Also the system design
means you only have to take the components
you need for each job. Upgradeability is further
enhanced with a complete array of speaker
mount accessories. These bring all the acoustic
components together with the convenience and
flexibility you want during your next performance.
Piqued your interest? Good!
On the next pages we’ll take a
closer look at the players and
how each can be configured
for maximum performance in
applications like yours.
The Players
The CVA-28 is a 3 way active speaker system
that provides powerful sound in a small,
modular package.
The CVA-118 and CVA-121 subwoofers match
perfectly with the CVA-28. The custom-designed
drivers in the 18” and 21” beasts use legendary
Cerwin-Vega! technology for maximum cone
excursion and voice-coil efficiency.

Go Big orGo Home
Show us somebody who doesn’t appreciate solid, powerful
bottom end, and we’ll show you a person with no soul.
Nobody knows more about the reproduction of clean, venue
shaking bass than Cerwin-Vega. We practically invented it!
No wonder we built the Cerwin-Vega Active Series on a solid
bass reproduction platform. Two Subwoofers are available to
meet your application and budget needs; the CVA-118 and
the flagship CVA-121 active subwoofer, with a massive 21-inch
woofer and integrated 1200-watt power amplifier.
The CVA-121 system offers tremendous power output
and exceptional low frequency response. The CVA-121
represents an industry milestone, as it is the first 1200-watt,
21-inch active subwoofer. A key engineering challenge in
the development of the CVA-121 was to maintain woofer
control from a system able to deliver such extreme
excursions and high SPL. The answer? Cerwin-Vega’s
innovative Stroker®Technology, which utilizes a three-
spider driver design to optimize cone excursion and voice
coil efficiency. Stroker®provides a pair of double inverted
spiders to control linearity and maintain smooth excursion.
While a third spider provides another plane of support
for speaker movement. The third spider also keeps the
surround from pulling the cone unevenly, dramatically
improving voice coil and magnetic gap alignment at the
system’s extreme output. Cerwin-Vega engineers even
utilized a unique and striking cast aluminum grille that
doubles as a speaker heat sink, enabling these woofers to
play longer and harder than anything else in their class.
Matched to this woofer is a powerful, built-in 1200-watt
(2400 watt peak), high-efficiency Class-H amplifier. The
CVA-121 amplifier includes a unique onboard parametric
equalizer that allows for added adjustment of gain,
frequency and Q for customized performance options.
This allows users to dial in the correct sub response
for each venue. Users can bump frequencies that need
more emphasis or cut offending frequencies that occur
from room corner loading or wall boundary conditions.
Integrating all these technologies allows the CVA-121 to
deliver best in class low frequency output from a 21-inch
speaker, but has a footprint more like an 18-inch box. The
result of all this integration is power, upgradeability and
improved portability.
Unleashing all this power has never been easier thanks
to a complete array of connection and mounting options.
First, XLR and quarter inch connectors allow for balanced
and unbalanced operation, and flexible setup while using
a wide variety of cables and configurations.
High carbon fiber
content in cone
provides enhanced
strength, tough-
ness and rigidity
The third spider
provides another
plane of support for
extremely reliable
performance and
high SPL levels
The spider is
mounted to an
aluminum tube that
acts as a heat sink
pumping air through
the vented pole
Vent in the
Aluminum tube
Lower shorting
ring dramatically
reduces distortion for
extremely accurate
audio reproduction
Upper shorting ring
provides enhanced
cooling effects of
the voice coil
Double inverted
spider cancels
non-linearities for
smooth excursion
performance
While Master/Slave output connectors allow users to
daisy-chain multiple CVA subwoofers. Finally, three
top-mount 35 mm pole sockets and matched mounting
accessories, provide for flexible full range system
configurations.
Protecting your investment is solid 18-mm hardwood
construction, available in either durable Coolex®
polyurethane paint or high grade Carpet finish. Bottom
line; the CVA-121 Active Subwoofer will provide you
exceptional performance in a package much smaller and
easier to use than you have ever seen before.

While impressive on its own, the Cerwin-Vega Active Series
subwoofers are complemented by the CVA-28. Like its
subwoofer partners, the CVA-28 is a totally integrated,
matched, and optimized active speaker system that
provides powerful sound in a small, modular package.
The system configuration starts with an innovative, 3 way,
dual 8” design. The dual 8 configuration was chosen for
optimized directivity and to provide high performance
in a small package. The custom designed Cerwin-Vega
drivers also provide superior power handling, tight bass
and refined mid-range. Finally, a compression driver is
placed in the center of the top woofer in a concentric
configuration. This design provides time-aligned high
frequencies for incredible detail and imaging.
Matched to this impressive transducer array is a 400
watt integrated 3-way amplifier. With 800 watts peak
output, the amplifier circuitry also boasts several helpful
user features. Start with a dedicated EQ contour switch
optimized for high SPL situations. This feature greatly
enhances speaker sound quality by reducing unwanted
frequencies at high SPLs. This equalization control is the
result of testing in real world environments with industry
experts. A Sub/No Sub switch allows users to roll off
the low end when used with a dedicated subwoofer,
eliminating competing frequencies in the system.
Access to the amplification section is available through
microphone, line, and instrument inputs through XLR and
quarter inch connectors. These flexible input choices let
you choose how you use the system: PA, satellite speaker,
or instrument source. System status is communicated
by a series of four LEDs that provide direct feedback on
important information such as signal and power.
As with other members of the Cerwin-Vega Active
Series, the CVA-28 provides superior flexibility and
upgradeability. The CVA-28 can be mounted or installed
in a myriad of ways thanks to integrated fly points, fly
kits, pole mounts, and dual and triple speaker mount
accessories. Cerwin-Vega hardware accessories let users
create a mini flyable array, or create an expandable system
with Cerwin-Vega subwoofers, allowing the CVA-28 to
cover venues from intimate to large. The available speaker
mounting systems allows up to three CVA-28 speakers to
be horizontally arrayed. And there is no need to guess on
how to angle the CVA-28s on top of a CVA subwoofer, since
the dual and triple speaker mount accessories provide
guide pins for optimized array angles, guaranteeing best
SPL and overall performance from your CVA-28 array.
With or without its CVA subwoofer partners, the CVA-28
is just the best sounding active full range speaker in its
class. Whether it’s hip hop, jazz, bluegrass or rock and
roll, the CVA-28 provides the performance, power and
flexibility you just can’t find elsewhere. If you’re looking for
an upgradeable and accurately voiced speaker as part of
your performance arsenal, the CVA-28 is the way to go.
Get the power.
The CVA-118 shares many of the features and benefits
found in its bigger 21-inch brother, but with an even
more compact enclosure. This active subwoofer is built
around a custom designed 18-inch Cerwin-Vega woofer
with extreme power handling and output. To maximize
the woofer’s output, the CVA-118 system includes a
matched and integrated 700-watt amplifier. This active
design approach not only maximizes performance, but
delivers improved portability. Users get the output of an
18” woofer from an enclosure normally associated with a
smaller 15-inch subwoofer.
Of course, flexible input connections, daisy-chain
capability, and mounting accessories makes the CVA-118
the perfect first choice when building an easy to use,
flexible and powerful bottom end foundation.

Flying High
No matter the platform, you have the gear. Bring only what you need, knowing you have a totally reliable system complete
with integrated flypoints, and accessories that will allow you to put all this power and performance where you need it.
So get ready to be asked back, again, and again.
Ground Floor
DJ or small ensemble, a pair of CVA 28’s would impress
just about any crowd on their own. Add a CVA-118 and really
make an impression.
Moving On Up
Bigger group, bigger venue, Cerwin-Vega Active has what
you need. Add a pair of 28’s and move up to the massive
CVA-121 and you’ll have everyone off their seats.
Crowded House
Keep it portable, and just add more gear. It’s all compatible,
upgradeable and flexible. Array more CVA-28’s for full house
coverage, and double up your bottom end with dual subs.
You got gigs, we got your gear
Whether it’s hip hop, jazz, bluegrass or rock and roll, the
Cerwin-Vega Active Series offers performance, power and
flexibility you just can’t find elsewhere. If you’re looking for
a reliable, upgradeable and accurately voiced speaker
system, this is the series for you. So here are just a few
application ideas for those of you that make a living as DJ
or live performer, looking to entertain a intimate crowd or
the whole house.

CVA-121 SUBWOOFER SYSTEM
21-INCH ACTIVE SUBWOOFER
Power Capacity Continuous 1200 watt peak 2400 watt
Frequency Response (+/- 3dB) 35 Hz – 135 Hz
Frequency Range (-10 dB) 32 Hz – 135 Hz
Max SPL 135 dB at 2400 watt
Sensitivity (1w/1m) 101 dB
LF Driver SW21A, 21 inch with Stroker®technology
Subsonic Filter: 25 Hz
Voice Coil 4 inch
AMPLIFIER MODULE
Power Rating 1200 watt / 2400 watt peak
Input Connectors XLR/F Balanced (x2) Bal/Unbalanaced
1/4 inch TRS (x2 ) Balanced
Output Connectors XLR/M (x2)
1/4 inch TRS (x2) Bal/Unbalanaced
XLR/M Slave Balanced
CROSSOVER VARIABLE
LPF: 65 Hz to 130 Hz Variable
Subsonic Filter: 25 Hz
CONTROLS
HPF: 65 Hz, 85 Hz, 130 Hz
Variable LPF: 65 Hz, 130 Hz
POLARITY SWITCH
0-180 Polarity Switch
0-180 Parametric Equalizer
Gain, Frequency, Q
POWER CONSUMPTION AT IDLE
No more than 20W
CONSTRUCTION
18 mm Hardwood Finish
Cool-X®Polyurethane Paint or Carpet
Dimensions- (H x W x D)
31.75 inch x 23.5 inch x 23.5 inch
806 mm x 597 mm x 597 mm
Net Weight 180 lb (82 kg)
Additional- Removable Casters: 2 fixed, 2 swivel
CVA-118 SUBWOOFER SYSTEM
18-INCH ACTIVE SUBWOOFER
Power Capacity Continuous 700 watt peak 1400 watt
Frequency Response (+/- 3dB) 39 Hz – 135 Hz
Frequency Range (-10 dB) 36 Hz – 135 Hz
Max SPL 131 dB at 1200 watt
Sensitivity (1w/1m) 100 dB
LF Driver SW18C, 18 inch
Voice Coil 3 inch
AMPLIFIER MODULE
Power Rating 700 watt / 1400 watt peak
Input Connectors XLR/F Balanced (x2) Bal/Unbalanaced
1/4 inch TRS (x2) Balanced
Output Connectors XLR/M (x2)
1/4 inch TRS (x2) Bal/Unbalanaced
XLR/M Slave Balanced
CROSSOVER VARIABLE
LPF: 65 Hz to 130 Hz Variable
Subsonic Filter: 25 Hz
CONTROLS
HPF: 65 Hz, 85 Hz, 130 Hz
Variable LPF: 65 Hz, 130 Hz
POLARITY SWITCH
0-180 Polarity Switch
POWER CONSUMPTION AT IDLE
No more than 20W
CONSTRUCTION
18 mm HardwoodFinish
Cool-X®Polyurethane Paint or Carpet
Dimensions (H x W x D)
25 inch x 21 inch x 23.5 inch
635 mm x 533 mm x 597mm
Net Weight- 115 lb (52 kg)
CVA-28 FULL RANGE SYSTEM
DUAL 8-INCH ACTIVE FULL RANGE
Power Capacity Continuous 400 watts Peak 800 watts
Frequency Response (+/- 3dB) 70 Hz – 20 kHz
Frequency Range (-10 dB) 60 Hz – 20 kHz
Max SPL 128 dB at 800 watts
Sensitivity (1w/1m) 99 dB
HF Driver CD34B voice coil 34mm
MLF Driver FR8C, 8 inch voice coil 2 inch
LF Driver FR8B, 8 inch voice coil 2 inch
Nominal Beam Width Horizontal 50
(-6 dB SPL Points) Vertical 50
AMPLIFIER MODULE
Power Rating 400 watts / 800 watts peak
Input Connectors XLR/F 1/4 inch TRS Bal/Unbalanaced
Output Connectors XLR/M 1/4 inch TRS Balanced
CONTROLS LEVEL
Line/Mic-D.I.
No Sub/With Sub
Contour/Off Power Voltage Selector
CONSTRUCTION
Multi-ply Hardwood Finish
Cool-X®Polyurethane Paint or Carpet
Dimensions (H x W x D)
20.5 inch x (front)11 inch (rear) 8.5 inch x 12 inch
520 mm x (front)279 mm (rear) 216 mm x 305 mm
Net Weight 48 lb (21.8 kg)
Pack aPunch, Not Your Vehicle
If you make your living as DJ, performing artist, or
production company, this series is for you. If you
are tired of compromising performance, particularly
great bottom end output for portability, Cerwin-Vega
Active Series is what you’ve been waiting for.
You know less is more when it comes to packing out your
next gig. Rely on the Cerwin-Vega Active Series to do the
grunt work. You can leave the extra roadie behind and just
grab your gear. Leave behind any doubt about the sound
too, with complete system integration it’s like you’ve got a top
sound engineer coming along for the ride. You’ve got the
sound and the punch covered.

Cerwin-Vega.com
USA: Cerwin-Vega! 3000 SW 42nd Street, Hollywood, FL 33312. Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone] Email: [e-mail]
Europe: Stanton Europe 382 Avenue de la Couronne, 1050 Brussels, Belgium. Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone] Email:euroffi[e-mail]
Cerwin-Vega! Is a division of the Stanton Group. Cerwin-Vega! Reserves the right to make changes to product specifications and design at anytime ©Copyright 2008 Cerwin-Vega!