DAL ACOUSTICS BR218 User manual

BR218
Professional Sound Reinforcement Loudspeaker System
Operation Instructions
© German Audio ngineering GmbH*An der Strusbek 1*22926 Ahrensburg – User Manual DAL BR218 v1.0
A C O U S T I C S

DAL Acoustics loudspeaker systems are designed and manufactured in
Germany by German Audio ngineering GmbH. German Audio ngineering
works exclusively with upstream suppliers who can guarantee consistent and
verifiable quality of their components and parts.
If you have a problem with one of our products, or if you need a spare part,
please contact your local distributor or contact us directly.
Thank you for choosing a DAL Acoustics product.
System description:
The BR218 systems is an active driven Sub/Low woofer system in a ported
cabinet made of waterproof glued plywood with fine textured varnish coating.
The systems is loaded by 2 of 18” long excursion cone transducer with 4”
voice coils and a symmetric Low Velocity tuning port. The BR218 provides an
(omni-) spherical radiation pattern and works band-limited by an external
control system from 38Hz to 100Hz. The system offers a peak power handling
of >3000W.
The system has integrated 8 transport handles, 1 M20 threaded plate and is
protected by a robust protective grill made from 2mm steel and foam backing.
In stand-alone or spaced array operation, it will complete your main systems
with sufficient low end. The BR218 can also be used in different complex
operation modes like cardioid deployments, “endfired-arrays” or stacked
lines.
When operated with the DAL Control & Drive System, the system is optimal
parameterized for sonic quality and protected for maximum continuous and
peak sound pressure level. The DAL Control & Drive Systems provides
different settings for the operation of BR218 combinations.
With a gross volume of <450l the BR218 is one of the smallest high output
double 18” sub/low systems with a tuning down to 38Hz.
BR218 accessories and options
Blue Wheels (no stop)
No Blue Wheels
Front mounted Protection Board incl. fixing belts
Textile Hood (waterproof)
© German Audio ngineering GmbH*An der Strusbek 1*22926 Ahrensburg – User Manual DAL BR218 v1.0

Notes on the operating instructions:
Observe the explanations and notes in these operating instructions. If you
lend or pass on this product to third parties, please refer to this operating
manual, pass on this operating manual.
This symbol in connection with the signal word "Beware" indicates a possibly
dangerous situation. Failure to observe this safety instruction may result in
serious injury or even death.
This symbol in connection with the signal word "Warning" indicates a possibly
dangerous situation for persons with pacemakers. Non-observance can lead
to serious injuries or even death.
This symbol in connection with the signal word "Caution" indicates a possibly
dangerous situation with a high ambient noise level. It is recommended to
wear hearing protection in case of high noise level.
This symbol in conjunction with the signal word "Caution" indicates a warning
of a magnetic field present in the immediate vicinity of the object.
This symbol in connection with the signal word "Warning" indicates
commands to observe product-relevant operating conditions.
© German Audio ngineering GmbH*An der Strusbek 1*22926 Ahrensburg – User Manual DAL BR218 v1.0

General information
Operating instructions DAL BR218
The information in this operating manual is given to the best of our knowledge
and is valid at the time of printing. We reserve the right to change
specifications of the product at any time. German Audio ngineering does not
guarantee the quality or suitability for use. German Audio ngineering GmbH
(for DAL) assumes no liability for direct or indirect damage or consequential
damage resulting from the use and operation of this product.
German Audio ngineering reserves the right to continuously develop the
product further and to make changes to the product as a result. German Audio
ngineering is always pleased to receive suggestions for improvement and
comments on the product.
Contact: [email protected] * www.GA .de/DAL
German Audio ngineering GmbH
An der Strusbek 1 * 22926 Ahrensburg, Germany
Phone: [phone]
Intended use and application, safety and operational reliability
Observe the following safety instructions when operating loudspeakers to
avoid risks. The BR218 loudspeaker has been designed exclusively for
professional use in sound reinforcement systems. The loudspeaker may only
be used by instructed and qualified persons. Observe the operating modes
described in these operating instructions. Other uses are not permitted.
The BR218 canbe operated without the DAL Control & Drive System DS-4L, but
then it does not offer the performance data specified by us and will not have
the same power handling capacity.
The Minimum operation parameters to adjust your external control system are
specified in this manual.
In operation avoid Feedback, distorted signals (clipping), peaks resulting from
plugging or unplugging devices in the signal chain, long term pure sine wave
tones with high power and too weak power amplifiers not specified by their
power ratings. Such signals and devices can cause loudspeaker overload or
damages and are not covered by our warranty-
© German Audio ngineering GmbH*An der Strusbek 1*22926 Ahrensburg – User Manual DAL BR218 v1.0

Safety instructions:
Warning
Loudspeakers have a permanent magnetic field. Persons with pacemakers
must not be in the immediate vicinity of loudspeakers, as magnetic fields can
lead to interference with pacemakers. When repairing loudspeakers, it must
be ruled out that the magnetic components come into contact with persons
wearing pacemakers.
Warning
Loudspeakers have a permanent magnetic field. This can interfere with the
operation of other components in the immediate vicinity that are
magnetically sensitive.
Beware
The BR218 loudspeakers must be secured against slipping or falling
over, e. g. with suitable tension straps on stages. A falling loudspeaker
can cause great damage to property and personal injury. Use only
material specified by DAL for the installation and mounting of DAL
loudspeakers. This work must be carried out by qualified personnel.
Observe the applicable safety regulations when doing so.
Caution
Do not stand in the immediate vicinity of loudspeaker systems that are
operated at high sound pressure levels. Wear hearing protection when testing
and setting up speaker systems. These speaker systems - operated at high
sound pressure levels - can endanger health. ven seemingly low sound
pressure levels of 90dB/SPL can cause long-term impairment or damage to
hearing.
Attention
When setting up, storing and transporting loudspeakers, ensure that excessive
environmental influences such as direct sunlight, moisture, vibrations and
dust have no effect. When operating the loudspeakers, avoid feedback,
distorted signal transmission and playback as well as signal peaks that can be
caused by switching devices in the signal chain on and off or disconnecting
them from the signal chain during operation. Make sure that the loudspeaker
is not exposed to permanent thermal overloads, which may cause fire and
result in damage to property and personal injury. DAL will not be liable for any
damage caused in this way and will not accept any warranty or liability for
consequential damage.
© German Audio ngineering GmbH*An der Strusbek 1*22926 Ahrensburg – User Manual DAL BR218 v1.0
Attention
Warning
Caution
Beware
Caution

echnical Overview
(1.) 1 of 2 x 18“ NDym long excurcion cone transducers: DAL Replacement cone
transducer DAL 18T01-30-100B, DAL 18W360B Order Code 85840108
(2.) 1 of 12 abrasion-resistant feet, Order Code 93110000
(3.) Transport handles (8)
(4.) Symmetric LV Tuning Vent
(5.) Blue Wheels, Order Code 70010102 (break), 70010100 (no break)
(6.) Stacking Recess
(7.) Connector Panel (1+/1-) ; black, Order Code: 1000000002 Type DAL ASS-NL4-
1sw. White, Order Code: 1000000003 Type DAL ASS-NL4-1ws
(8.) Manufacturer Plate with serial number
(9.) M20 threaded Pole Mount
(10.) Protective Front Grill with Foam Cover: Order Code: 1000520, Type DAL ASS-
FGBR218)
Tools required for maintenance: Srewdriver and Bits: PH2, Allan Key 5mm
© German Audio ngineering GmbH*An der Strusbek 1*22926 Ahrensburg – User Manual DAL BR218 v1.0

Purchase of spare parts
Please state the serial number of your product when ordering spare parts.
The serial number identification of your product can be found on the serial
number plate recessed in the rear wall of the loudspeaker system.
The illustration of the serial number plate is shown on the left. The S/N
designation is followed by the serial number of the speaker system.
echnical Specifications
Acoustical Bandwidth with DAL DS-4L: 38Hz –100Hz
Dispersion BR218: 4π
Nominal Impedance (Re): 4Ohm
System Power: 3000W (A S), 6000W Peak
Continuous SPL: >130*dB/3000W/1m, Pink Noise Crest Factor 6dB
Peak SPL: > 136dB*/6000W/1m, Music Signal, with GA DS-4L
* 4π measurements, ground stacked measured SPL Levels are +6dB higher
Dimensions (W x H x D mm): 600 x 1200 x 600; 600 x 1200 x 732 (w. wheels),
Net Weight: 86kg (no wheels)
Connectivity: 2 x Speakon™ NL4 1+/1-
Standard Coating: textured black varnish, optional PU coating
Recommended Control & Drive System: DAL DS-4L
For operation recall one of the following control setups for DAL DS-4L
BR218SM: Sub Mode – stand alone operation, spaced arrays
BR218SCM: Simple cardiod mode (2 Front, 1 Back)
Operation of BR218 and DAL Control & Drive Systems
DS-4L: 1 systems per channel
echnical Notes
DAL protective grilles with foam lamination are the mechanical protection
component for the built-in transducers and offer a high acoustic transmission
as well as their affixing minimizes sonic influences of the grilles. The backing
or covering of the grilles with foam serves also as UV-light protection, dust
protection and improves the optical unobtrusive of the systems. Only
undamaged grilles and foams can fulfill these tasks. Replace warped grilles or
worn-off foams to maintain their function.
DAL loudspeaker systems with Polyurea-Coated or painted enclosures are
basically suitable for temporary outdoor operation, even in the rain.
For indefinite operation outdoors as in fixed installations, the loudspeaker
systems must be protected with a hood against direct sunlight and rain. If
necessary, the loudspeaker should be equipped with the optional front grille
with weather protection.
Most DAL loudspeaker systems can be supplied for extra charge from the
factory in a weatherproof (WR) or sea-weatherproof (SWR) variant.
For indefinite operation outdoors in subtropical and tropical areas, the
© German Audio ngineering GmbH*An der Strusbek 1*22926 Ahrensburg – User Manual DAL BR218 v1.0
BR218– Manufacturer Plate
With Serial Number

loudspeaker should be ordered as the WR variant. For indefinite operation at
sea and other areas with a humid and salty atmosphere, the loudspeaker
should be ordered in the SWR equipment variant. Both variants are
manufactured at the factory only.
Connectivity And Electrical Operation
The BR218 is connected via 2 Speakon® NL4 sockets connected in parallel on
the connector panel. The connectivity is 1+/1- for the low drivers.
Connectors Pin Assignment 1+/1-: The BR218 is wired in such a way that a
positive voltage at 1+ moves the cones of the low frequency transducers
outwards. Please see polarity check in chapter test and maintenance.
The BR218 can NOT be operated without a dedicated system controller. The
controller must provide an adjustable low pass filters, active cross over
function, adjustable delay and sufficient parametric Q for each channel. Use
the DAL Control & Drive Systems to ensure factory specification, maximum
performance and sonic characteristics.
Keep in mind that you may need to increase the required cable cross-section
for parallel operation of multiple BR218 on one amplifier channel. The same
applies to long and longer cables between power amplifier and BR218. We
recommend a minimum cross section of 2.5 qmm up to 10m cable length
@8Ohm. Here the loss through the cable is approx. 5% of the amplifier power.
Installation And Rigging
The BR218 is designed for use and installation in ground stacked operation.
Rigging and suspended installations are not intended. When setting up and
positioning the system, make sure it is on a firm and leveled surface and that
the selected load points have a proven load-bearing capacity. Use approved
stands and approved mounting accessories that are designed for the weight
load. Additionally secure the stability of the speaker system to prevent
personal injury and property damage.
© German Audio ngineering GmbH*An der Strusbek 1*22926 Ahrensburg – User Manual DAL BR218 v1.0
BR218 NL connector panels

est And Maintenance
The wiring of the loudspeaker components inside the cabinet is according to
the diagram to the left. With an impulse phase checker, which delivers a signal
with non-inverted phase, a signal of positive polarity is obtained directly
measured in front of the cone transducers.
It is good practice to check loudspeaker systems frequently in concern of
mechanical integrity and distortion free sound reproduction.
Here is a simple way to quickly check sound reproduction. Use a sine wave
generator with sweep function or a tunable sine wave generator and a power
amplifier. Adjust the test system to deliver an appropriate sound power level
and tune the sine wave generator from low to high frequencies. Listen to the
acoustic output the loudspeaker delivers. The signals should be free of
audible distortions. Mechanical noise from the system or unwanted
reproduction of side tones should be followed up by inspection and search for
the root cause. Please note that for this test you can drive the Device under
test also via an appropriate system cross over / controller in front of the power
amplifier.
Fixing and mounting points should be inspected frequently.
Operation of DAL BR218
There is the need of active control for the BR218 plus a dedicated power
amplifier delivering RMS 5000W@4Ohm.
Down below are the parameters to be adjusted for an external system
controller. Please note that the parameter “Delay” should be measured on site
with an FFT analyzer in relation to any Top stacks like GA Director Pack or
S12N-TM. Depending on the acoustic distance between BR218 and top stacks
their relative acoustic distance must be compensated for best summation.
Doing that correctly will give an optimum summation at the acoustic cross
over frequency between BR218 top stacks e.g. Director Pack or S12N-TM.
© German Audio ngineering GmbH*An der Strusbek 1*22926 Ahrensburg – User Manual DAL BR218 v1.0
BR218 - internal wiring schematic
BR218 Control Parameters
Limiter +43dBu
Polarity +
Gain 0,0dB
Delay to be adjusted locally
High Pass 30Hz
Low Pass 90Hz
Boost at Tuning 38Hz BW3,9Q Gain +3dB
Butterworth 3rd Order
LinkwitzRiley 4th Order

Note on disposal
Observe the applicable national regulations and rules for disposal.
All products manufactured by German Audio ngineering GmbH are B2B
products and are supplied to commercial customers. The adjacent symbol of
the crossed-out trash bin can indicate that this product will be disposed of
exclusively by German Audio ngineering GmbH. For DAL products that do yet
bear this marking, the owner is responsible for proper disposal.
Our registration according to lektro G is: W -Register-Nr. D 72073104
Manufacturer's declaration
The declaration applies to: DAL BR218 1000532 and all model variants that
correspond to the factory design and have not been modified by others.
Applied national standards and technical specifications:
DIN 18800, DIN 1055, DGUV regulation 17, BGI 810-13
Hamburg, 01.06.2018
© German Audio ngineering GmbH*An der Strusbek 1*22926 Ahrensburg – User Manual DAL BR218 v1.0