L-Acoustics X8 User manual

X8
user manual 2.0 (EN)

Document reference: X8 user manual (EN) version 2.0
Distribution date: November 23, 2015
© 2015 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.

3
Contents
Safety................................................................................................................................................................ 5
Instructions................................................................................................................................................5
Symbols................................................................................................................................................... 5
Welcome........................................................................................................................................................... 6
X8 live monitoring enclosure......................................................................................................................6
System components.............................................................................................................................................7
Technical description...........................................................................................................................................8
Low-latency preset..................................................................................................................................... 8
Directivity................................................................................................................................................. 8
Loudspeaker configurations..................................................................................................................................9
X8 point source.......................................................................................................................................9
X8 point source with LF...........................................................................................................................10
X8 with SB15m.............................................................................................................................10
X8 stage monitor.................................................................................................................................... 11
X8 stage monitor with LF.........................................................................................................................12
X8 with SB15m.............................................................................................................................12
Loudspeaker connection.................................................................................................................................... 13
Connectors............................................................................................................................................. 13
Connection to LA4X................................................................................................................................ 14
Using SP cables with passive enclosures......................................................................................... 15
Using SP-Y1 cables....................................................................................................................... 16
Connection to LA8.................................................................................................................................. 17
Using SP-Y1 cables....................................................................................................................... 18
Using a DO cable with a DOSUB-LA8............................................................................................19
Preset description..............................................................................................................................................20
Recommendation for speaker cables...................................................................................................................21
Maintenance.................................................................................................................................................... 22
Repair kits..............................................................................................................................................22
G03170..................................................................................................................................... 22
G03174..................................................................................................................................... 22
Disassembly and Reassembly procedures.................................................................................................. 23
D/R - X8 GRILL............................................................................................................................. 24
D/R - X8 COAXIAL LOUDSPEAKER.................................................................................................26

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D/R - X8 DIAPHRAGM..................................................................................................................28
Illustrations....................................................................................................................................................... 31
Loudspeaker cables.................................................................................................................................31
X8 specifications...............................................................................................................................................32

Safety
5 X8 user manual (EN) version 2.0
Safety
Instructions
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.
Beware of sound levels.
Do not stay within close proximity of loudspeakers in operation and consider wearing earplugs.
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 with prolonged exposure to sound: 8 h at 90 dB(A), 30 min at 110 dB(A), less
than 4 min at 130 dB(A).
Do not store the product on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table.
Read the RIGGING MANUAL before installing the system.
Use the rigging accessories described in the rigging manual and follow the associated procedures.
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.
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 notifies the user about instructions that must be strictly followed to ensure proper installation or
operation of the product.
This symbol notifies the user about complementary information or optional instructions.

Welcome
X8 user manual (EN) version 2.0 6
Welcome
Thank you for purchasing the L-Acoustics X8.
This document contains essential information on using the system properly. Carefully read this document in order to
become familiar with the system.
As part of a continuous evolution of techniques and standards, L-Acoustics reserves the right to
change the specifications 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.
X8 live monitoring enclosure
The X8 is a coaxial system designed for live monitoring and short throw sound reinforcement applications with minimum
visual impact. The X8 features a 1.5’’ diaphragm compression driver coaxially loaded by an 8’’ low frequency
transducer in a bass-reflex cabinet. The L-Vents laminar vented ports reduce turbulence and port noise at high levels to
increase LF efficiency.
The X8 operates from 60 Hz to 20 kHz. The coaxial transducer arrangement and its partial horn produce a 100°
axisymmetric directivity output with a smooth tonal response free of secondary lobes over the entire frequency range.
The internal passive crossover network uses custom filters. The L-Acoustics amplified controllers L-Drive parameters ensure
the linearization and protection of the transducers.
With a cabinet combining the properties of birch and beech plywood, X8 weighs 12 kg and its elegance makes for
an easy integration in any situation. It provides an angle setting of 35° with regard to vertical for stage monitoring. An
optional white or RAL color program means that it can melt into any architecture.
The X8 is an ideal live monitor capable of accurately translating the signature of large systems at FOH position or in
control rooms. The X8 features a pristine L-Acoustics sonic signature, a high SPL capability and extended LF resources
in a compact format. Its coaxial design generates a wide conical directivity pattern with excellent spatialization and no
minimum listening distance. Sound designers can also take advantage of its sleek design for discreet fill applications
requiring a high SPL.
The X8 can be pole-mounted using the integrated socket. Other deployments such as wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted or
flown are quick and easy, with a complete range of rigging accessories that offer multiple set-up options and various
orientations.

System components
7 X8 user manual (EN) version 2.0
System components
Loudspeaker enclosures
X8 passive 2-way coaxial enclosure
SB15m high power compact subwoofer
Powering and driving system
LA4X / LA8 amplified controller with DSP, preset library and networking capabilities
LA-RAK touring rack containing three LA8, for power, audio and network distribution
L-Case protection case for L-Acoustics 2U electronics
Refer to the LA4X / LA8 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 cables 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 amplifiers is given in this
document.
Refer to the LA4X / LA8 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 X8 rigging manual.
Software applications
Soundvision 3D acoustical and mechanical modeling software
LA Network
Manager
software for remote control and monitoring of amplified controllers

Technical description
X8 user manual (EN) version 2.0 8
Technical description
Low-latency preset
A low-latency preset is available for the X8 enclosure used as a monitor ([X8_MO]). It reduces latency from 3.84 ms
down to 1.19 ms (LA8) and 0.76 ms (LA4X). If the monitor is combined with a subwoofer, a custom preset must be used.
Directivity
X8 features a coaxial transducer arrangement that generates an axisymmetric directivity pattern of 100°.
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 X8 using lines of equal sound pressure at -3 dB, -6 dB, -12 dB.

Loudspeaker configurations
9 X8 user manual (EN) version 2.0
Loudspeaker configurations
X8 point source
Deployed as a standalone point source, a X8 system operates over the nominal bandwidth of the X8 enclosure.
The [X8] preset allows for a reference frequency response in short throw applications.
The X8 enclosure is driven by the LA4X / LA8 amplified controllers.
Standalone X8
Enclosure Preset
X8 [X8]
Frequency range (-10 dB) 60 Hz - 20 kHz

Loudspeaker configurations
X8 user manual (EN) version 2.0 10
X8 point source with LF
Deployed as a point source with SB15m subwoofers, an X8 system operates with augmented LF resources.
The [X8] preset allows for a reference frequency response in short throw applications.
The [SB15_100] preset provides the SB15m with an upper frequency limit at 100Hz for an optimal frequency coupling
with X8.
The X8 and SB15m enclosures are driven by the LA4X / LA8 amplified controllers.
X8 with SB15m
With SB15m, the X8 system contour is reinforced by 8 dB contour at 100Hz and the bandwidth is extended down to
42Hz.
Enclosure Preset
X8 [X8]
SB15m [SB15_100]
Frequency range (-10 dB) 42Hz - 20 kHz
Enclosure ratio 1 X8 : 1 SB15m
Delay values
Do not forget to add the pre-alignment and geometric delays depending on the configuration.
[X8] + [SB15_100] X8 = 0 SB15m = 2.6

Loudspeaker configurations
11 X8 user manual (EN) version 2.0
X8 stage monitor
Deployed as a stage monitor, an X8 system operates over the nominal bandwidth of the X8 enclosure.
The [X8_MO] preset allows for a reference frequency response in stage monitoring applications.
The X8 enclosure is driven by the LA4X / LA8.
Standalone X8
35°
Enclosure Preset
X8 [X8_MO]
Frequency range (-10 dB) 55 Hz - 20 kHz

Loudspeaker configurations
X8 user manual (EN) version 2.0 12
X8 stage monitor with LF
Deployed as a stage monitor with SB15m subwoofers, an X8 system operates with augmented LF resources.
The [X8_MO] preset allows for a reference frequency response in stage monitoring applications.
The [SB15_100] preset provides the SB15m with an upper frequency limit at 100Hz for an optimal frequency
coupling with the X8.
The X8 and the SB15m enclosures are driven by the LA4X / LA8 amplified controllers.
X8 with SB15m
With SB15m, the X8 system contour is reinforced by 8 dB contour at 100Hz and the system bandwidth is extended
down to 42Hz.
35°
Enclosure Preset
X8 [X8_MO]
SB15m [SB15_100]
Frequency range (-10 dB) 42Hz - 20 kHz
Enclosure ratio 1 X8 : 1 SB15m
Delay values
Do not forget to add the pre-alignment and geometric delays depending on the configuration.
[X8_MO] + [SB15_100] X8 = 0 SB15m = 2.6
[xx_MO] presets for the X series use the amplified 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 amplified 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 LA4 and LA8 or 3.08 ms on LA4X.

Loudspeaker connection
13 X8 user manual (EN) version 2.0
Loudspeaker connection
Connectors
LINK IN
X8
Internal pinout for L-ACOUSTICS 2-way passive enclosures
speakON points 1 + 1 - 2 + 2 -
Transducer connectors + - Not linked Not linked
IN LINK
SB15m
Internal pinout for L-ACOUSTICS subwoofers
speakON points 1 + 1 - 2 + 2 -
Transducer connectors LF + LF - Not linked Not linked

Loudspeaker connection
X8 user manual (EN) version 2.0 14
Connection to LA4X
Maximum number of coaxial enclosures per LA4X
loudspeaker enclosure max number of
connections per output*max number of enclosures per controller
X8 2 8
Maximum number of subwoofer enclosures per LA4X
loudspeaker enclosure max number of
connections per output*max number of enclosures per controller
SB15m 1 4
* For passive loudspeakers, the value corresponds to the number of enclosures in parallel on the output. For active
loudspeakers, the value corresponds to the number of sections in parallel on the output.
Impedance load for:
— X8
— SB15m
number of enclosures in parallel nominal impedance
1 8 Ω
2 4 Ω

Loudspeaker connection
15 X8 user manual (EN) version 2.0
Using SP cables with passive enclosures
—Use SP cables (SP.7, SP5, SP10 or SP25) to connect one enclosure to each of the four speakON® connectors of the
amplified controller.
— If necessary, use SP cables to connect identical enclosures in parallel with the first ones.
Refer to the cabling schemes below for more instructions.
OUT1
OUT2
OUT3
OUT4
SP
SP
SP
SP
SP
SP
SP
SP
X8
SP
SP
SP
SP
OUT1
OUT2
OUT3
OUT4
SB15m

Loudspeaker connection
X8 user manual (EN) version 2.0 16
Using SP-Y1 cables
—Connect an SP cable (SP.7, SP5, SP10 or SP25) to the OUT1/OUT2 and OUT3/OUT4 speakON® connectors of
the amplified controller.
— Use the CC4FP adapter of an SP-Y1 cable to split the signal into two channels, each feeding one enclosure.
— If necessary, use SP cables to connect identical enclosures in parallel with the first ones.
Refer to the cabling schemes below for more instructions.
SP
SP
OUT1/OUT2 OUT3/OUT4
X8
SP-Y1
CC4FP
SP-Y1
CC4FP
SP
SP
OUT1/OUT2 OUT3/OUT4
SB15m
SP-Y1
CC4FP
SP-Y1
CC4FP

Loudspeaker connection
17 X8 user manual (EN) version 2.0
Connection to LA8
Maximum number of coaxial enclosures per LA8
loudspeaker enclosure max number of
connections per output*max number of enclosures per controller
X8 3 12
Maximum number of subwoofer enclosures per LA8
loudspeaker enclosure max number of
connections per output*max number of enclosures per controller
SB15m 2 8
* For passive loudspeakers, the value corresponds to the number of enclosures in parallel on the output. For active
loudspeakers, the value corresponds to the number of sections in parallel on the output.
Impedance load for:
— X8
— SB15m
number of enclosures in parallel nominal impedance
1 8 Ω
2 4 Ω
3 2.7 Ω

Loudspeaker connection
X8 user manual (EN) version 2.0 18
Using SP-Y1 cables
—Connect SP cables (SP.7, SP5, SP10 or SP25) to the OUT1/OUT2 and OUT3/OUT4 speakON® connectors of the
amplified controller.
— Use the CC4FP adapter of an SP-Y1 cable to split the signal into two channels, each feeding one enclosure.
— If necessary, use SP cables to connect identical enclosures in parallel with the first ones.
Refer to the cabling schemes below for more instructions.
SP
SP
OUT1/OUT2 OUT3/OUT4
SP
SP
SP
SP
X8
SP-Y1
CC4FP
SP-Y1
CC4FP
SP
SP
SP
SP
SP
SP
OUT3/OUT4
SP
SP
SP
SP
SB15m
OUT1/OUT2
SP-Y1
CC4FP
SP-Y1
CC4FP

Loudspeaker connection
19 X8 user manual (EN) version 2.0
Using a DO cable with a DOSUB-LA8
—Connect a DO cable (DO.7,DO10 or DO25) to the CA-COM® connector of the amplified controller.
— Use a DOSUB-LA8 to split the signal into four channels, each feeding one enclosure.
— If necessary, use SP cables to connect identical enclosures in parallel with the first ones.
Refer to the cabling schemes below for more instructions.
SP
SP
SP
SP
CA-COM
DO
DOSUB-LA8
X8
SP
SP
SP
SP
SP
SP
SP
SP
CA-COM
SB15m
DO
DOSUB-LA8

Preset description
X8 user manual (EN) version 2.0 20
Preset description
[X8]
enclosure outputs channels routing gain delay polarity mute
X8 OUT 1 PA IN A 0 dB 0 ms + ON
X8 OUT 2 PA IN A 0 dB 0 ms + ON
X8 OUT 3 PA IN B 0 dB 0 ms + ON
X8 OUT 4 PA IN B 0 dB 0 ms + ON
[SB15_100]
enclosure outputs channels routing gain delay polarity mute
SB15m OUT 1 SB IN A 0 dB 0 ms + ON
SB15m OUT 2 SB IN A 0 dB 0 ms + ON
SB15m OUT 3 SB IN A 0 dB 0 ms + ON
SB15m OUT 4 SB IN A 0 dB 0 ms + ON
[SB15_100_C]
enclosure loudspeaker
elements
outputs channels routing gain delay polarity mute
SB15m SR OUT 1 SR ON
SB15m SB OUT 2 SB ON
SB15m SB OUT 3 SB ON
SB15m SB OUT 4 SB
IN A 0 dB 0 ms +
ON