L-Acoustics X12 User manual

X12
user manual (EN)

Document reference: X12 user manual (EN) version 4.0
Distribution date: March 8, 2017
© 2017 L-Acoustics. All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any
form or by any means without the express written consent of the
publisher.

Contents
Safety................................................................................................................................................................ 5
Instructions................................................................................................................................................5
Symbols................................................................................................................................................... 5
Welcome........................................................................................................................................................... 6
System components.............................................................................................................................................7
Loudspeaker cables...................................................................................................................................8
Technical description........................................................................................................................................... 9
Low-latency preset..................................................................................................................................... 9
Directivity................................................................................................................................................. 9
Monitor angles....................................................................................................................................... 10
Loudspeaker congurations................................................................................................................................11
X12 point source...................................................................................................................................11
X12 point source with LF.........................................................................................................................12
X12 with SB15m...........................................................................................................................12
X12 with SB18............................................................................................................................. 13
X12 stage monitor.................................................................................................................................. 14
X12 stage monitor with LF.......................................................................................................................15
X12 with SB15m...........................................................................................................................15
X12 with SB18............................................................................................................................. 16
Loudspeaker connection.................................................................................................................................... 17
Connectors............................................................................................................................................. 17
Connection to LA4X................................................................................................................................ 18
Connection to LA8.................................................................................................................................. 19
Connection to LA12X.............................................................................................................................. 19
Preset description..............................................................................................................................................21
Recommendation for speaker cables...................................................................................................................22
Maintenance.................................................................................................................................................... 23
Disassembly and Reassembly procedures.................................................................................................. 23
D/R - X12 GRILL...........................................................................................................................24
D/R - X12 COAXIAL LOUDSPEAKER...............................................................................................25
D/R - X12 DIAPHRAGM................................................................................................................26
3

Specications................................................................................................................................................... 29
X12 specications...................................................................................................................................29
SB15m specications...............................................................................................................................31
SB18 specications................................................................................................................................. 33
4

Safety
Safety
Instructions
Inspect the product before operation.
If any sign of defect or damage is detected, immediately withdraw the product from use for maintenance.
Never incorporate equipment or accessories not approved by L-Acoustics.
Read all the related PRODUCT INFORMATION documents shipped with the products before
exploiting the system.
Do not store the product on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table.
Beware of sound levels.
Do not stay within close proximity of loudspeakers in operation.
Loudspeaker systems are capable of producing very high sound pressure levels (SPL) which can instantaneously
lead to permanent hearing damage to performers, production crew and audience members. Hearing damage
can also occur at moderate level with prolonged exposure to sound.
Check the applicable laws and regulations relating to maximum sound levels and exposure times.
This system is intended for professional use.
Read the RIGGING MANUAL before installing the system.
Use the rigging accessories described in the rigging manual and follow the associated procedures.
Read the maintenance section of this document before servicing the product.
Do not expose the product to extreme conditions.
Do not expose the product to rain or sea spray.
Do not expose the product to moisture (mist, steam, humidity, condensation…) or excessive heat (direct sun,
radiator…) for a long period of time.
Contact L-Acoustics for advanced maintenance.
Any unauthorized maintenance operation will void the product warranty.
Symbols
The following symbols are used in this document:
This symbol indicates a potential risk of harm to an individual or damage to the product.
It can also notify the user about instructions that must be strictly followed to ensure safe installation or operation of
the product.
This symbol noties the user about instructions that must be strictly followed to ensure proper installation or
operation of the product.
This symbol noties the user about complementary information or optional instructions.
5 X12 user manual (EN) version 4.0

Welcome
Welcome
Thank you for purchasing the L-Acoustics X12.
This document contains essential information on using the system properly.
As part of a continuous evolution of techniques and standards, L-Acoustics reserves the right to
change the specications of its products and the content of its document without prior notice. Please
check www.l-acoustics.com on a regular basis to download the latest document and software updates.
X12 multi-purpose enclosure
The X12 is a multipurpose coaxial system perfectly suited to all short throw sound reinforcement applications. The
enclosure features a 3" diaphragm compression driver coaxially loaded by a 12" low frequency transducer in a bass-
reex cabinet. The L-Vents laminar vented ports reduce turbulence and port noise at high levels to increase LF efciency.
The X12 operates from 59 Hz to 20 kHz. The coaxial transducer arrangement and its ellipsoid acoustic design produce
a 90° x 60° directivity pattern with a smooth tonal response free of secondary lobes over the entire frequency range.
The internal passive crossover network uses custom lters. The L-Acoustics amplied controllers L-Drive parameters ensure
the linearization and protection of the transducers.
With a cabinet combining the properties of birch and beech plywood, X12 weighs 20 kg and its elegance makes for an
easy integration in any situation. Ergonomic handles provide a solid grip and efcient handling. An optional white or
RAL color program means that it can melt into any architecture. The X12 provides a stage monitoring angle setting of 35°
with regard to vertical or 55° thanks to its built-in risers.
The ellipsoid directivity of 90° x 60° gives optimized coverage for FOH and ll applications, distributed systems, stage
monitoring and more. The compact footprint allows for discreet integration, preserving sightlines. The passive design
reduces the need for amplied controller.
The X12 can be pole-mounted using the integrated socket. Other deployments such as wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted
or own are quick and easy, with a complete range of rigging accessories that offer multiple set-up options and various
orientations.
X12 user manual (EN) version 4.0 6

System components
System components
Loudspeaker enclosures
X12 2-way-passive coaxial enclosure: 12'' LF + 3'' HF diaphragm (white)
SB15m High power compact subwoofer : 1 x 15''
SB18 High power compact subwoofer: 1 x 18''
SB18 / SB18i / SB18m
In this document, the SB18 term and illustrations refer equally to SB18, SB18i or SB18m.
Powering and driving system
LA4X / LA8 / LA12X Amplied controller with DSP, preset library and networking capabilities
LA-RAK Touring Rack (RK9U/3xLA8/LA-POWER/ LA-PANEL/LA-PANELAES3/2U panels)
LA-RAK II Touring rack containing three LA12X, LA-POWER II for power distribution and LA-PANEL II for
audio and network distribution
Refer to the LA4X / LA8 / LA12X user manual for operating instructions.
Loudspeaker cables
SP cables 4-point speakON loudspeaker cables (4mm² gauge)
SP cables come in four sizes: SP.7 (0.7m/2.3ft), SP5 (5m/16.4ft), SP10 (10 m/32.8ft) and
SP25 (25m/82ft)
SP-Y1 breakout cable for two passive enclosures (2.5mm² gauge) provided with a CC4FP adapter
4-point speakON to 2 × 2-point speakON
DO 8-point PA-COM loudspeaker cables (4mm² gauge)
DO cables come in three sizes: DO.7 (0.7m/2.3ft), DO10 (10m/32.8ft) and DO25
(25m/82ft)
DOSUB-LA8 breakout cable for four passive enclosures (4mm² gauge)
8-point PA-COM to 4 × 2-point speakON
Information about the connection of the enclosures to the LA ampliers is given in this
document.
Refer to the LA4X / LA8 / LA12X user manual for detailed instructions about the whole cabling scheme, including
modulation cables and network.
Rigging elements
Rigging elements or procedures are not presented in this document.
Refer to the X12 rigging manual.
Software applications
Soundvision 3D acoustical and mechanical modeling software
LA Network Manager Software for remote control and monitoring of amplied controllers
Refer to the Soundvision help.
Refer to the LA Network Manager video tutorial.
7 X12 user manual (EN) version 4.0

System components
Loudspeaker cables
0.7 m / 5 m / 10 m / 25 m
CH(1)
CH(2)
1 m
SP.7 / SP5 / SP10 / SP25 SP-Y1
0.7 m / 10 m / 25 m
SPK1
SPK2
SPK3
SPK4
5 m
DO.7 / DO10 / DO25 DOSUB-LA8
X12 user manual (EN) version 4.0 8

Technical description
Technical description
Low-latency preset
A low-latency preset is available for the X12 enclosure used as a monitor ([X12_MO]). It reduces latency from 3.84ms
down to 1.19ms (LA8) and 0.76 ms (LA4X / LA12X). If the monitor is combined with a subwoofer, a custom preset must
be used.
Directivity
X12 features a coaxial transducer arrangement coupled with an ellipsoid waveguide that generates an H/V directivity
pattern of 60° x 90°.
Frequency (Hz)
Angle (°)
100 1 000 10 000
−180
−160
−140
−120
−100
−80
−60
−40
−20
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
Frequency (Hz)
Angle (°)
100 1 000 10 000
−180
−160
−140
−120
−100
−80
−60
−40
−20
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
Dispersion angle diagram of a single X12 using lines of equal sound pressure at -3 dB, -6 dB, -12 dB.
9 X12 user manual (EN) version 4.0

Technical description
Monitor angles
X12 features risers that allow to change the monitor angle from 35° to 55°.
35° 55°
X12 user manual (EN) version 4.0 10

Loudspeaker congurations
Loudspeaker congurations
X12 point source
Deployed as a standalone point source, an X12 system operates over the nominal bandwidth of the X12 enclosure.
The [X12] preset allows for a reference frequency response in short throw applications.
The X12 enclosure is driven by the LA4X / LA8 / LA12X amplied controllers.
Standalone X12
Enclosure X12
Preset [X12]
Frequency range (-10 dB) 59 Hz - 20 kHz
11 X12 user manual (EN) version 4.0

Loudspeaker congurations
X12 point source with LF
Deployed as a point source with SB15m or SB18 subwoofers, an X12 system operates with augmented LF resources.
The [X12] preset allows for a reference frequency response in short throw applications.
The [SB15_100] and [SB18_100] presets provide the SB15m and SB18 with an upper frequency limit at 100Hz for an
optimal frequency coupling with the X12.
The X12, SB15m and SB18 enclosures are driven by the LA4X / LA8 / LA12X amplied controllers.
X12 with SB15m
With SB15m, the X12 system contour is reinforced by 8 dB at 100Hz and the system bandwidth is extended down to
40Hz.
Enclosure X12 SB15m
Preset [X12] [SB15_100]
Frequency range (-10 dB) 40Hz - 20 kHz
Enclosure ratio 1 X12 : 1 SB15m
Delay values
Do not forget to add the pre-alignment and geometric delays depending on the conguration.
Pre-alignment delays
[X12] + [SB15_100] X12 = 0 ms SB15m = 2.8 ms
X12 user manual (EN) version 4.0 12

Loudspeaker congurations
X12 with SB18
With SB18, the X12 system contour is reinforced by 8 dB at 100Hz, and the system bandwidth is extended down to
32Hz.
Enclosure X12 SB18
Preset [X12] [SB18_100]
Frequency range (-10 dB) 32Hz - 20 kHz
Enclosure ratio 1 X12 : 1 SB18
Delay values
Do not forget to add the pre-alignment and geometric delays depending on the conguration.
Pre-alignment delays
[X12] + [SB18_100] X12 = 0 ms SB18 = 0 ms
13 X12 user manual (EN) version 4.0

Loudspeaker congurations
X12 stage monitor
Deployed as a stage monitor, an X12 system operates over the nominal bandwidth of the X12 enclosure.
The [X12_MO] preset allows for a reference frequency response in stage monitoring applications.
The X12 enclosure is driven by LA4X / LA8 / LA12X.
Standalone X12
55°
35°
Enclosure X12
Preset [X12_MO]
Frequency range (-10 dB) 57 Hz - 20 kHz
Paired X12 monitors with LFC
The Low Frequency Contour (LFC) tool implemented in LA Network Manager can compensate for coupling effects
between closely operating monitors. LFC allows to adjust the frequency response curve to obtain the desired low
frequency contour.
For paired X12 monitors, enter the following parameters to obtain the reference response curve of a single enclosure:
-3.0
180
For more information about LFC, refer to the LA Network Manager video tutorial (module: Group Control Panel) and
to the Array Morphing white paper, available on www.l-acoustics.com (Download Center).
X12 user manual (EN) version 4.0 14

Loudspeaker congurations
X12 stage monitor with LF
Deployed as a stage monitor with SB15m or SB18 subwoofers, an X12 system operates with augmented LF resources.
The [X12_MO] preset allows for a reference frequency response in stage monitoring applications.
The [SB15_100] and [SB18_100] presets provide the SB15m and SB18 with an upper frequency limit at 100Hz for
an optimal frequency coupling with the X12.
The X12, SB15m and SB18 enclosures are driven by the LA4X / LA8 / LA12X amplied controllers.
X12 with SB15m
With SB15m, the X12 system contour is reinforced by 8 dB at 100Hz and the system bandwidth is extended down to
40Hz.
55°
35°
Enclosure X12 SB15m
Preset [X12_MO] [SB15_100]
Frequency range (-10 dB) 40Hz - 20 kHz
Enclosure ratio 1 X12 : 1 SB15m
Delay values
Do not forget to add the pre-alignment and geometric delays depending on the conguration.
Pre-alignment delays
[X12_MO] + [SB15_100] X12 = 0 ms SB15m = 2.8 ms
[xx_MO] presets for the X series use the amplied controller low latency operating mode. When used along with
subwoofers, it is recommended to use the subwoofers in low latency operating mode. To achieve this, create
custom presets combining low latency channel sets and subwoofer channel sets.
If the subwoofers are driven from a dedicated amplied controller using a subwoofer factory preset, they are
operated in normal latency mode. Therefore, an additional delay should be set to the [xx_MO] low latency
channels to align them: 2.65 ms on LA8 or 3.08 ms on LA4X and LA12X.
15 X12 user manual (EN) version 4.0

Loudspeaker congurations
X12 with SB18
With SB18, the X12 system contour is reinforced by 8dB at 100Hz, and the system bandwidth is extended down to
32Hz.
55°
35°
Enclosure X12 SB18
Preset [X12_MO] [SB18_100]
Frequency range (-10 dB) 32Hz - 20 kHz
Enclosure ratio 1 X12 : 1 SB18
Delay values
Do not forget to add the pre-alignment and geometric delays depending on the conguration.
Pre-alignment delays
[X12_MO] + [SB18_100] X12 = 0 ms SB18 = 0 ms
[xx_MO] presets for the X series use the amplied controller low latency operating mode. When used along with
subwoofers, it is recommended to use the subwoofers in low latency operating mode. To achieve this, create
custom presets combining low latency channel sets and subwoofer channel sets.
If the subwoofers are driven from a dedicated amplied controller using a subwoofer factory preset, they are
operated in normal latency mode. Therefore, an additional delay should be set to the [xx_MO] low latency
channels to align them: 2.65 ms on LA8 or 3.08 ms on LA4X and LA12X.
X12 user manual (EN) version 4.0 16

Loudspeaker connection
Loudspeaker connection
Connectors
The X12 is equipped with two 4-point speakON connectors.
LINKIN
X12
Internal pinout for L-Acoustics 2-way passive enclosures
speakON points 1 + 1 - 2 + 2 -
Transducer connectors + - Not linked Not linked
The SB15m is equipped with two 4-point speakON connectors.
The SB18 is equipped with two 4-point speakON connectors.
IN LINK
SB15m
IN LINK
SB18
Internal pinout for L-Acoustics subwoofers
speakON points 1 + 1 - 2 + 2 -
Transducer connectors LF + LF - Not linked Not linked
17 X12 user manual (EN) version 4.0

Loudspeaker connection
Connection to LA4X
Maximum number of enclosures per LA4X
enclosure max enclosures in parallel max enclosures per controller
X12 1 4
SB15m 1 4
SB18 1 4
Impedance load
X12 SB15m SB18
1 enclosure: 8 Ω
Connecting 2-way passive enclosures or subwoofers
SP on speakON output
SP
SP
SP
SP
OUT1
OUT2
OUT3
OUT4
SP and SP-Y1 on speakON output
OUT1/OUT2 OUT3/OUT4
same as OUT1/OUT2
SP SP-Y1
CC4FP
CH(1) (OUT1)
CH(2) (OUT2)
X12 user manual (EN) version 4.0 18

Loudspeaker connection
Connection to LA8
Maximum number of enclosures per LA8
enclosure max enclosures in parallel max enclosures per controller
X12 2 8
SB15m 2 6
SB18 2 8
Make sure the total number of connected enclosures does not exceed the maximum number
of enclosures per controller.
LA8 can drive up to two SB15m per output, but no more than six per controller.
Impedance load
X12 SB15m SB18
1 enclosure: 8 Ω
2 enclosures in parallel: 4 Ω
Connection to LA12X
Maximum number of enclosures per LA12X
enclosure max enclosures in parallel max enclosures per controller
X12 3 12
SB15m 3 12
SB18 3 12
Impedance load
X12 SB15m SB18
1 enclosure: 8 Ω
2 enclosures in parallel: 4 Ω
3 enclosures in parallel: 2.7 Ω
Connecting 2-way passive enclosures or subwoofers
SP and SP-Y1 on speakON output
OUT1/OUT2 OUT3/OUT4
same as OUT1/OUT2
SP SP-Y1
CC4FP
CH(1) (OUT1)
CH(2) (OUT2)
SP
SP
19 X12 user manual (EN) version 4.0

Loudspeaker connection
DO and DOSUB-LA8 on CA-COM output
CA-COM
DO
DOSUB-LA8
SPK1 (OUT1)
SPK2 (OUT2)
SPK3 (OUT3)
SPK4 (OUT4)
SP
X12 user manual (EN) version 4.0 20