JBL VTX Series User manual

VTX B18 | User Manual

VTX B18 | User Manual
GENERAL INFORMATION
VTX B18 - User Manual
Document Number: 1000337285
Version: C - EN
Distribution Date: January 25, 2021
Copyright © 2021 by HARMAN International; all rights reserved
JBL PROFESSIONAL
8500 Balboa Blvd
Northridge, CA 91329
USA

VTX B18 | User Manual
Thank you for purchasing JBL VTX Series products
In more than 75 years of JBL innovations, the VTX Series stands apart as a milestone in the practical application of cre-
ative engineering. VTX products herald the next generation in line array loudspeaker systems: a new era in performance,
system integration and user friendliness. VTX products draw on multiple JBL patents in driver, waveguide, and suspension
technology, as well as custom amplification, DSP, control, and system management designs created in collaboration with
HARMAN Professional sister companies.
VTX loudspeakers marry custom transducer design and in-house manufacture, breakthrough technologies, and a com-
prehensive system approach to deliver a premium experience for all who come into contact with it, from the FOH mixing
engineer to the systems engineer, rigger, road crew, warehouse manager, and, of course, the audience. Designed for
operators of portable and fixed systems alike, the VTX Series features JBL’s legendary sound quality coupled with expert
support and advanced tools that enable optimal specification, configuration, and operation of VTX systems in any venue,
anywhere in the world. The VTX Series delivers a comprehensive solution: the finest sound quality available, plus efficient
and intuitive setup, tuning, networking, and control.

VTX B18 | User Manual
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 - DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY ...........................................................................6
2 - SAFETY .................................................................................................7
2.1 Safety Instructions ....................................................................................7
2.2 General Hardware Information ..........................................................................7
2.3 Attachment to Structures ...............................................................................7
2.4 Important Safety Warning ..............................................................................8
2.5 Are You New to Rigging? ..............................................................................8
2.6 Inspection and Maintenance ............................................................................8
2.7 Symbols ............................................................................................9
3 - SYSTEM COMPONENTS .................................................................................10
4 - COMPATIBLE ACCESSORIES..............................................................................11
4.1 VTX A8 AF - Array Frame ..............................................................................11
4.2 VTX A8 AF EB - Array Frame Extension Bar ...............................................................11
4.3 VTX A8 MF - Mini Frame ..............................................................................11
4.4 VTX A8 SB - Suspension Bar ...........................................................................12
4.5 VTX B18 VT - Vertical Transporter .......................................................................12
4.6 VTX B18 VT CVR - Soft Cover ..........................................................................12
4.7 VTX B18 ACC - Accessory Cover and Casterboard .........................................................12
4.8 VTX RC500 - Rotating Clamp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
5 - SOFTWARE.............................................................................................14
5.1 Line Array Calculator 3 TM .............................................................................14
5.2 Array Link TM .......................................................................................14
5.3 Performance Manager TM ..............................................................................14
6 - OVERVIEW .............................................................................................15
7 - CONNECTIONS .........................................................................................16
7.1 Internal Wiring ......................................................................................16
8 - TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS ..............................................................................17
8.1 Rotating the Dolly Tabs - For use with the ACC Dolly ........................................................18
9 - VTX B18 PRESET LIBRARY................................................................................20
9.1 VTX B18 Preset Modes and Options .....................................................................20
9.2 Time Alignment......................................................................................20
10 - SYSTEM AMPLIFICATION & WIRING .......................................................................21
10.1 B18 Using Crown I-Tech 12000HD .....................................................................21
10.2 B18 Using Crown I-Tech 12000HD (Cardioid) .............................................................22

VTX B18 | User Manual
10.3 B18 Using I-Tech 4x3500HD..........................................................................23
10.4 B18 Using I-Tech 4x3500HD (Cardioid). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
10.5 Crown V-Rack .....................................................................................24
11 - CARDIOID CONFIGURATIONS ............................................................................25
11.1 Ground Stacked Cardioid Configurations ................................................................26
11.2 Minimum Space Between Cardioid Stacks ...............................................................27
11.3 Minimum Space From a Wall ..........................................................................27
11.4 Cardioid Versus Omni - SPL Differences .................................................................28
12 - FLOWN CARDIOID CONFIGURATIONS .....................................................................29
12.1 Array Configurations.................................................................................29
13 - CARDIOID PRESETS IN PERFORMANCE MANAGER .........................................................31
13 - ELECTRONIC DELAY STEERING (EDS) .....................................................................32
13.1 EDS Example - No Delays ............................................................................32
13.2 EDS Example - With Delays ...........................................................................33
14 - TESTING VTX B18 ......................................................................................34
14.1 Using a DMM (Digital Multimeter). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
14.2 Using Performance Manager ..........................................................................35
14.3 Performance Manager Readings .......................................................................35
15 - SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................................36
15.1 VTX B18 ..........................................................................................36
16 - ACOUSTIC MEASUREMENTS ............................................................................37
17 - DIMENSIONS ..........................................................................................37
18 - CONTACT INFORMATION ................................................................................38

VTX B18 | User Manual
1 - DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Frank Lacelle
Compliance Manager - Harman International
BRAND: JBL Professional
FAMILY NAME: VTX A8/B18 loudspeaker and suspension accessories
• VTX B18
• VTX B18 VT
• VTX B18 ACC
• VTX A8 AF
• VTX A8 AF EB
• VTX A8 SB
MODEL NAMES:
We, HARMAN International, declare under our sole responsibility that the product, to which this declaration relates, is in conformity
with the following standards:
STANDARD DESCRIPTION TEST AGENCY
2006/42/EC
MACHINERY DIRECTIVE
Applies to machinery and lays down essential
health and safety requirements
ISO12100
Tested at JBL Professional
2014/35/EC
LOW VOLTAGE DIRECTIVE
Applies to loudspeaker and lays down essential
health and safety requirements.
EN60065
Tested at JBL Professional
• VTX A8 MF
• VTX RC500

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VTX B18 | User Manual
2 - SAFETY
2.1 SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not expose the product to direct rain or sea spray.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus that produce heat.
8. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
9. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used,
use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
10. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as if
liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, or if the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not
operate normally, or has been dropped.
11. Contact JBL Professional for advanced servicing issues.
12. CAUTION - DO NOT PERFORM ANY SERVICING UNLESS YOU ARE QUALIFIED TO DO SO.
13. Prolonged exposure to excessive SPL can cause hearing damage. The loudspeaker is easily capable of generating sound pressure
levels (SPL) sufficient to cause permanent hearing damage to performers, production crew, and audience members. Caution should
be taken to avoid prolonged exposure to SPL in excess of 90 dB.
14. Read the System Rigging Manual before installation and use of the product.
2.2 GENERAL HARDWARE INFORMATION
Any hardware used in an overhead suspension application must be load rated for the intended use. Generally, this type of hardware
is available from rigging supply houses, industrial supply catalogs, and specialized rigging distributors. Local hardware stores do not
usually stock these products. Compliant hardware will be referenced with a working load limit (WLL) and a traceability code.
2.3 ATTACHMENT TO STRUCTURES
A licensed Professional Engineer must approve the placement and method of attachment to the structure prior to the installation of any
overhead object. The following performance standards should be provided to the Professional Engineer for design purposes: Uniform
Building Code as applicable, Municipal Building Code as applicable, and Seismic Code as applicable. The installation of the hardware
and method of attachment must be carried out in the manner specified by the Professional Engineer. Improper installation may result in
damage, injury, or death.

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VTX B18 | User Manual
2.5 ARE YOU NEW TO RIGGING?
If you are new to rigging, you should:
• Know the rules for safe rigging.
• Attend a safe rigging seminar.
• Meet and establish a relationship with a licensed mechanical or structural engineer. Get in the habit of asking them questions in-
stead of assuming their answers. Learn from what they tell you.
• Research and understand the codes, practices and requirements of the venues where you intend to operate your sound system.
2.4 IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNING
The information in this section has been assembled from recognized engineering data and is intended for informational purposes only.
None of the information in this section should be used without first obtaining competent advice with respect to applicability to a given
circumstance. None of the information presented herein is intended as a representation or warranty on the part of JBL. Anyone making
use of this information assumes all liability arising from such use.
All information presented herein is based upon materials and practices common to North America and may not directly apply to other
countries because of differing material dimensions, specifications, and/or local regulations. Users in other countries should consult with
appropriate engineering and regulatory authorities for specific guidelines.
Correct use of all included hardware is required for secure system suspension. Careful calculations should always be performed to
ensure that all components are used within their working load limits before the array is suspended. Never exceed the maximum recom-
mended load ratings.
Before suspending any speaker system, always inspect all components (enclosure, rigging frames, pins, eyebolts, track fittings, etc.) for
cracks, deformations, corrosion, or missing/loose/damaged parts that could reduce strength and safety of the array. Do not suspend
the speaker until the proper corrective action has been taken. Use only load-rated hardware when suspending JBL suspendable loud-
speaker models.
2.6 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
Suspension systems are comprised of mechanical devices and, as such, require regular inspection and routine maintenance to ensure
proper functionality. Before suspending or pole mounting any speaker system, always inspect all components (enclosure, suspension
frames or brackets, pins, eyebolts, etc.) for cracks, deformations, corrosion, or missing/loose/damaged parts that could reduce strength
and safety of the array. Do not suspend or pole mount a speaker until the proper corrective action has been taken.
Installed systems should be inspected at least once a year. The inspection must include a visual survey of all corners and load-bearing
surfaces for signs of cracking, water damage, delamination, or any other condition that may decrease the strength of the loudspeaker
enclosure.
Accessory suspension hardware provided with or for VTX systems must be inspected for fatigue at least once a year or as required by
local ordinance. The inspection must include a visual survey of the material for signs of corrosion, bending, or any other condition that
may decrease the strength of the fastener. Additionally, any eyebolts must be checked for possible spin-out of the enclosure.
For all other hardware and fittings, refer to the hardware manufacturer’s inspection and maintenance guidelines for process.

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VTX B18 | User Manual
2.7 SYMBOLS
The following symbols are used in this document:
CAUTION: This symbol gives notice of a potential risk of harm to the individual or the equipment. Instruction
marked with this symbol must be strictly followed.
TIP: This symbol gives notice of helpful, relevant information about the topic.
INSTRUCTIONS: This symbol gives notice of instructions that must be followed for proper installation and use of
the product.
TOOLS REQUIRED: This symbol gives notice of tools that must be used for proper installation and use of the
product.
JBL is not responsible for the application of its products for any purpose or the misuse of this information for any purpose. Furthermore,
JBL is not responsible for the abuse of its products caused by avoiding compliance with inspection and maintenance procedures or
any other abuse.
Prior to suspending the system, an expert, trained and experienced in suspending speaker systems, should inspect all parts and com-
ponents.

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VTX B18 | User Manual
3 - SYSTEM COMPONENTS
VTX B18
Crown I-Tech HD Amplifiers Crown V-Rack
Menu/Exit
Prev
Next
Power
Bridge 1/2
Bridge 3/4
Data
DRIVECORE SERIES
Fault
Thermal
Clip
-10
-20
Signal
Ready
1234
Fault
Thermal
Clip
-10
-20
Signal
Ready
1
Power
Bridge 1/2
Bridge 3/4
Data
Menu/Exit Prev Next
Fault
Thermal
Clip
-10
-20
Signal
Ready
2
12

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VTX B18 | User Manual
4.1 VTX A8 AF - ARRAY FRAME
4.2 VTX A8 AF EB - ARRAY FRAME EXTENSION BAR
4 - COMPATIBLE ACCESSORIES
The accessories listed below are compatible with the VTX B18. For more detailed information about the B18 accessories refer to the VTX
B18 Rigging manuals found at www.JBLpro.com.
4.3 VTX A8 MF - MINI FRAME
• Compatible with VTX A8 and VTX B18
• Maximum Limit: (24) VTX A8 / (13) VTX B18
• 0.5 degree pick-point resolution
• Built-in storage position for extension bar
• Includes (1) VTX A8 AF EB extension bar
• Support for third-party laser inclinometers
• Compatible shackle size: 5/8 in
• Extension Bar for use with VTX A8 AF
• Single, front-to-back or side-by-side pick point options
• Includes (3) shackles and mounting brackets
• Compatible shackle size: 5/8 in
• Compatible with VTX A8 and VTX B18
• Maximum Limit: (10) VTX A8 / (4) VTX B18
• Single-point and side-by-side pick-point options
• Three-part collapsible design
• Compatible shackle size: 1/2 in

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VTX B18 | User Manual
4.5 VTX B18 VT - VERTICAL TRANSPORTER
• Vertical transport cart for two to four VTX B18 subwoofers
• Truck-friendly dimensions
• Built-in stacking features for easy storage
• Lightweight design
• Heavy-duty casters
4.6 VTX B18 VT CVR - SOFT COVER
• Heavy-duty soft cover for VTX B18 enclosures
• Covers (2) or (3) VTX B18 enclosures
• Includes input-panel flaps for testing purposes
• Clear see-through pocket for shipping label
• Handle cutouts for easy transportation
• Heavy-duty industrial-grade zippers
4.7 VTX B18 ACC - ACCESSORY COVER AND CASTERBOARD
• Front face dolly and cover for VTX B18
• Cover includes handle cutouts and rear panel access flap
• Tour grade casters
• Stackable for convenient storage
• Rotating release/lock cam mechanisms for secure attachment to B18
enclosures
4.4 VTX A8 SB - SUSPENSION BAR
• Compatible with VTX A8 and VTX B18
• Maximum Limit: (24) VTX A8 / (16) VTX B18
• Used for pull-back applications
• Shackle Size: 5/8 in

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VTX B18 | User Manual
4.8 VTX RC500 - ROTATING CLAMP
TIP: For B18-specific accessories refer to the VTX B18 User and Rigging manuals found at www.JBLpro.com.
CAUTION: Always use components and accessories specified and approved by JBL Professional. When a cart is used,
use caution when moving the cart to avoid injury from tip-over.
• Universal truss/pipe clamp adapter
• Working Load Limit: 500 kg (1,100 lbs)
• Adjustable clamping mechanism
• Pipe range: 1 – 2.0 in
• Includes bearing for smooth 360° rotation
• 10-degree rotation marks for horizontal array aiming

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VTX B18 | User Manual
5 - SOFTWARE5 - SOFTWARE
5.1 LINE ARRAY CALCULATOR 3 TM
LAC is simulation software for designing and predicting VTX Se-
ries systems. LAC predicts the acoustical performance of line array
systems, as well as flown and ground-stacked subwoofer arrays.
Subwoofer delay values can be generated for electronic delay
steering (EDS) using the built-in coverage calculator. LAC also per-
forms mechanical validation of rigging hardware, calculates weight
limits, and generates safety warnings.
www.jblpro.com/lac3
5.2 ARRAY LINK TM
Array Link is a mobile companion app that works in conjunction
with LAC software to assist in deployment of VTX Series systems.
Array Link uses a QR code system to transfer all mechanical ar-
ray information from the main LAC application to a mobile phone.
All relevant rigging and mechanical options are presented in an
easy-to-understand layout. The application is compatible with
iOS®and AndroidTM and can be obtained from their respective app
stores.
5.3 PERFORMANCE MANAGER TM
Performance Manage is a configuration and control application for
networked audio systems. Performance Manager’s user interface
guides system designers through the complete system design,
configuration, and control processes. A dedicated show mode
provides all monitoring and control functions needed to deliver a
complete picture of the system’s performance in real time.
www.jblpro.com/performancemanager

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VTX B18 | User Manual
6 - OVERVIEW
The VTX B18 is JBL Professional’s next-generation single 18-inch subwoofer, designed to complement VTX full-range sound reinforce-
ment systems. The VTX B18 features the 2288H 18-inch woofer, engineered for improved linearity, increased sensitivity and extra-long
excursion. The 2288H is based on JBL’s dual voice coil, dual-gap Differential Drive®, technology, which delivers better heat dissipation,
TRANSDUCER DESIGN
The VTX B18 features JBL’s first new 18-inch high-performance
woofer design in a decade, engineered from the ground up to deliver
transparent, linear bass response down to 28 Hz. The 18-inch driver
leverages JBL’s patented fourth-generation Differential Drive tech-
nology to deliver maximum efficiency and power handling in a light,
compact design.
CONTROLLABLE COVERAGE
The VTX B18 can be used in omni-directional or cardioid configura-
tions simply by selecting the appropriate speaker preset and cabi-
net orientation. Speaker connectors are available on both the front
and back, streamlining cable management in either configuration. A
switch on the rear input panel allows for selecting between channel 1
or 2 of the NL4 cable, minimizing cable requirements.
VTX BUILD QUALITY
The VTX B18 adopts the VTX A-Series’ signature full-face grille de-
sign, which minimizes exposed components and protects the loud-
speaker from extreme conditions.
VTX A8 COMPATIBILITY
The B18 rigging system is compatible with the VTX A8 rigging sys-
tem, allowing B18 subwoofers to be suspended above an A8 array.
The VTX B18 rigging system allows for omnidirectional or cardioid
configurations in small and large-scale flown or ground-stacked ar-
rays. All VTX A8 suspension accessories are compatible and arrays
of up to 16 enclosures can be created.
lower power compression and wider dynamic range than con-
ventional single-coil designs. The B18 incorporates JBL’s patent-
ed Slip Stream™ double-flared exponential low-frequency port
design to improve airflow and reduce audible turbulence, even
at maximum excursion. The B18 shares the industrial design of
the JBL’s VTX A-Series products and has the same width and
suspension hardware as the VTX A8, allowing the two products
to be used together in a variety of flown or ground-stacked con-
figurations. The VTX B18 can be deployed in omni-directional or
cardioid configurations, in arrays of up to 16 enclosures.

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VTX B18 | User Manual
7 - CONNECTIONS
The VTX B18 is equipped with four Neutrik NL4 SpeakON connectors, two at the rear for the cabinet and two at the front grill. All four
NL4 connectors are wired in parallel and can be used interchangeably. The NL4 connectors at the front of the B18 are typically used
when B18s are setup in a cardioid configuration, when some of the enclosures are pointed backwards. All NL4 connectors are installed
upside down so that the NL4 locking pin position can be seen from under the array.
Front NL4 Connectors : IN/OUT
A channel selection switch is available at the rear of the B18 that allows for selecting between Pins 1 and 2 of the NL4 connector/cable.
The switch is wired after the four NL4 connectors and affects all connections equally.
CAUTION: Always use high-quality insulated speaker cables made by reputable manufactures. Keep cable length as
short as possible with sufficient gauge for the application.
7.1 INTERNAL WIRING
Pin Selection
Switch
A B
1+
1-
2+
2-
1+
1-
2+
2-
1+
1-
2+
2-
1+
1-
2+
2-
SUB
FRONT NL4 REAR PANEL NL4
B18
Compact Single 18” Subwoofer
IN/OUT IN/OUT
AB
ChannelSelec tion
SN
Rear NL4 Connectors : IN/OUT
Channel Selection Switch

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VTX B18 | User Manual
8 - TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS
There are two transportation options for the B18. One is the vertical transporter cart (VTX B18 VT) which allows for vertically transporting
up to four B18 subwoofers. When stacked in blocks of two, three or four, B18 cabinets can be configured in either front-firing or cardioid
mode (the CVR soft cover can cover stacks of two or three B18s). The VTX B18 VT CVR, a reinforced protective cover, is available to
cover and protect the subwoofers during transportation. The other option is to use the VTX B18 ACC accessory kit, which includes a
front face dolly for a single B18 and a protective cover. The VT option is ideal for large scale touring situations where large format trucks
are used and maximum deployment efficiency is needed.
VTX B18 VT
VTX B18 ACC
TIP: For additional information on how to use and deploy the ACC and Vertical Transporter refer to the VTX B18 Rigging
Manual that can be downloaded from www.jblpro.com.

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VTX B18 | User Manual
STEPS:
• Remove the four M6 HEX screws holding the grill onto the B18.
• Carefully disconnect the MolexTM connector which is used to connect the two front NL4 connectors to the B18.
1
2
TOOLS REQUIRED: A 4 mm HEX key is required to remove the four M6 screws holding the grill on the B18. A Phillips
#2 screwdriver is required for removing the four Phillips screws holding the bracket.
8.1 ROTATING THE DOLLY TABS - FOR USE WITH THE ACC DOLLY
There are two dolly tabs available at the front of the B18 that are used to secure the front face ACC dolly board to the B18. The tabs
are retractable and ship from the factory oriented towards the inside of the B18. This orientation is ideal when B18s are used with the
vertical transport cart, in which case the tabs are not needed. When the B18 is used with front face dolly boards the tabs are rotated, so
that the dolly board can be attached to the subwoofer.
1
2

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VTX B18 | User Manual
STEPS:
• Remove the four Phillips screws holding each bracket, reverse the orientation of the brackets and reinstall the Phillips screws
• Reconnect the MolexTM connector and secure the grill
3
4
4
3
TOOLS REQUIRED: A 4 mm HEX key is required to remove the four M6 screws holding the grill on the B18. A Phillips
#2 screwdriver is required for removing the four Phillips screws holding the bracket.

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VTX B18 | User Manual
9 - VTX B18 PRESET LIBRARY
The VTX B18 preset library includes 60 and 80 Hz operating modes along with cardioid presets for rear-facing subwoofer enclosures.
VTX presets are exclusively developed for Crown I-Tech HD amplifiers and come bundled with JBL HiQnet® Performance Manager
control software. Audio ArchitectTM presets are also available and can be downloaded from www.jblpro.com. See below for a detailed
description of the B18’s operating modes and processing options, and refer to the Preset Library setup sheets for preset descriptions,
memory locations and output channel assignments.
9.1 VTX B18 PRESET MODES AND OPTIONS
VTX B18 60: The 60 Hz preset mode extends the upper frequency response of the B18 to 60 Hz. The B18 60 preset is normally used
when VTX full-range cabinets (like the A8 or A12) are used in full-range mode and minimal overlap between the subwoofers and full-
range cabinets is desirable.
VTX B18 60 REAR: The 60 Hz rear preset was designed to work in conjunction with the standard B18 60 preset and is used to drive
rear-facing B18 cabinets in cardioid configurations.
VTX B18 80: The 80 Hz preset mode extends the upper frequency response of the B18 to 80 Hz. The 80 Hz preset is normally used
when VTX full-range cabinets (like the VTX A8 or A12) are set to 80 Hz, or when additional overlap between the full-range and subwoofer
cabinets is desirable.
VTX B18 80 REAR: The 80 Hz rear preset was designed to be work in conjunction with the standard B18 80 preset and is used for
rear-facing B18 cabinets in cardioid configurations.
9.2 TIME ALIGNMENT
The VTX B18 presets provide proper system summation with companion VTX full-range cabinets (all models) under physically coupled
configurations (stacked or suspended) and when used with corresponding 60 Hz or 80 Hz presets. This pre-alignment is done at the
factory, allowing any VTX subwoofer to be used with any VTX loudspeaker without needing specific subwoofer presets for each system
and configuration. Additional time alignment delay should be added, as necessary, to account for physical path length differences be-
tween suspended full-range arrays and ground-stacked VTX subwoofers.
VTX A8VTX B18VTX A12