L-Acoustics KIVA-SB15 User manual

KIVA SYSTEM KIVA SB15m
USER MANUAL
VERSION 1.3
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KIVA SYSTEM KIVA SB15m
USER MANUAL
VERSION 1.3
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SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Read this manual
2. Follow all SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS as well as DANGER and OBLIGATION warnings
3. Never incorporate equipment or accessories not approved by L-ACOUSTICS®
4. Read all the related PRODUCT INFORMATION documents before exploiting the system
The product information document is included in the shipping carton of the related system component.
5. Read the RIGGING MANUAL before installing the system
Use the rigging accessories described in the rigging manual and follow the associated procedures
6. 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).
SYMBOLS
The following symbols are used in this document:
DANGER
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.
OBLIGATION
This symbol notifies the user about instructions that must be strictly followed to ensure proper installation or
operation of the product.
INFORMATION
This symbol notifies the user about complementary information or optional instructions.

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WELCOME TO L-ACOUSTICS®
Thank you for choosing the L-ACOUSTICS®KIVA WST®system.
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 the L-ACOUSTICS®web site on a regular basis to download the latest document and software updates:
www.l-acoustics.com.
CONTENTS
KIVA SYSTEM 4
1SYSTEM COMPONENTS 5
1.1 Loudspeaker enclosures..............................................................................................................................................................5
1.2 Powering and driving system.......................................................................................................................................................5
1.3 Loudspeaker cables.....................................................................................................................................................................5
1.4 Rigging elements..........................................................................................................................................................................5
1.5 Software application....................................................................................................................................................................5
2LOUDSPEAKER CONFIGURATIONS 7
2.1 Line source..................................................................................................................................................................................7
2.2 Line source with low-frequency element....................................................................................................................................8
2.3 Line source element..................................................................................................................................................................10
2.4 Line source element with low-frequency element....................................................................................................................11
3LOUDSPEAKER CONNECTION 12
3.1 Connectors ...............................................................................................................................................................................12
3.2 Connection to LA4 /LA4X ........................................................................................................................................................13
3.3 Connection to LA8....................................................................................................................................................................16
APPENDIX A PRESET DESCRIPTION 20
[KIVA] 20
[KIVA_FI] 20
[KIVA_SB15] 20
[SB15_100] and [SB18_60] 20
[SB15_100_C] and [SB18_60_C] 21
APPENDIX B RECOMMENDATION FOR SPEAKER CABLES 21
APPENDIX C SPECIFICATIONS 22
KIVA 22
SB15m subwoofer 23

KIVA SYSTEM KIVA SB15m
USER MANUAL
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KIVA-SB15mSYSTEM
The KIVA-SB15m system is based on an ultra-compact WST®enclosure and a complementary subwoofer offering
extended bandwidth and LF resources. Intended for rental productions and fixed installations, the KIVA-SB15m
modular line source delivers remarkable acoustic properties in an unobtrusive and lightweight package and is suited to
various long-throw applications, including FOH L/R systems, central clusters, distributed systems and complementary
fills.
The main system components are as follows:
KIVA, full range element, operating from 80 Hz to 20 kHz;
SB15m, low-frequency element, operating down to 40 Hz;
LA4, LA4X or LA8 amplified controllers.
Utilizing the unrivalled characteristics of a variable curvature WST®line source, KIVA offers a long throw capability in
spite of its compact format. The sonic result is clarity, precision and a unique sensation of proximity for an incomparable
listening experience.
KIVA’s transducer arrangement delivers a 100°, smooth and controlled horizontal directivity pattern with a
homogeneous tonal balance, a feature particularly valuable since most of a given audience is located off-axis. With
variable inter-element angles from 0˚ to 15°, a KIVA line source allows matching any audience geometry, from narrow
sectors to an extensive vertical coverage.
In standalone configuration, KIVA is particularly suited to distributed applications, as a main or complementary system.
Its ultra-compact size and low weight complies with rigging and visual constraints found in historical buildings, theatres,
broadcast productions and corporate events.
By adjusting the number of SB15m subwoofers, the LF resources are fully scalable and KIVA can be deployed as a FOH
system with an extended operating bandwidth and an LF impact typical of today’s music. The various system
configurations offered to the sound designer and system engineer allow a high level of creative freedom. Before
installation, these configurations can be acoustically and mechanically modeled with the SOUNDVISION 3D simulation
software.
The amplified controllers offer an advanced and precise drive system for the enclosures. A factory preset library allows
accommodating any application. All L-ACOUSTICS®amplified controllers feature the L-DRIVE, a thermal and over-
excursion protection circuit.
Up to 253 amplified controllers can be connected together via the Ethernet-based L-NET protocol. The
LA NETWORK MANAGER software allows online remote control and monitoring of all the connected units, via a user-
friendly and intuitive graphic interface, and features the Array Morphing EQ. This exclusive tool allows the engineer to
quickly adjust the tonal balance of the system to reach a reference curve or to ensure consistency of the sonic signature.

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1SYSTEM COMPONENTS
The system approach developed by L-ACOUSTICS®consists in offering a global solution that guarantees the highest
and most predictable level of performance at any step of loudspeaker system deployment: modeling, installation, and
operation. A complete L-ACOUSTICS®system includes enclosures, amplified controllers, cables, rigging system and
software applications.
1.1 Loudspeaker enclosures
KIVA
Main enclosure (80 Hz –20 kHz), 2-way passive , variable curvature WST®line source element.
SB15m
Subwoofer enclosure (down to 40 Hz).
SB18
Subwoofer enclosure (down to 32 Hz).
Loudspeaker system design
Sound design aspects are beyond the scope of this document. However, the various applications of the
system will be based on the loudspeaker configurations presented in this document.
SB18 / SB18i / SB18m
In this document, the SB18 term and illustration refer equally to SB18, SB18i or SB18m.
1.2 Powering and driving system
LA4, LA4X
or LA8
Amplified controller with DSP, preset library and networking capabilities
Operating instructions
Refer to the LA4, LA4X and LA8 user manuals.
1.3 Loudspeaker cables
DO cables (DO.7, DO10, DO25)
8-point PA-COM®loudspeaker cables.
Respective lengths of 0.7 m/2.3 ft, 10 m/32.8 ft, and 25 m/82 ft.
DOSUB-LA8
Breakout cable for four passive enclosures.
8-point PA-COM®to 4 × 2-point SpeakON®.
SP cables (SP.7, SP5, SP10, SP25)
4-point SpeakON®loudspeaker cables.
Respective lengths of 0.7 m/2.3 ft, 5 m/16.4 ft, 10 m/32.8 ft and 25 m/82 ft.
SP-Y1
Breakout cable for two passive enclosures.
4-point SpeakON®to 2 × 2-point SpeakON®.
Provided with CC4FP adapter.
Information about the connection of the enclosures to the LA amplifiers is given in this document.
Refer to the LA4, LA4X and LA8 user manuals for detailed instructions about the whole cabling scheme,
including modulation cables and network.
1.4 Rigging elements
Rigging elements or procedures are not presented in this document.
Refer to the KIVA system rigging manual.
1.5 Software application
SOUNDVISION
Proprietary acoustical and mechanical 3D modeling software.
LA NETWORK MANAGER
Remote control and monitoring of amplified controllers.

KIVA SYSTEM KIVA SB15m
USER MANUAL
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Using L-ACOUSTICS®software
Refer to the SOUNDVISION user manual and the LA NETWORK MANAGER tutorial.
KIVA
SB15m
LA4
LA4X
LA8
DO.7
DO10
DO25
DOSUB-LA8
SPY1
CC4FP
SP7
SP5
SP10
SP25
Soundvision
LA Network Manager
KIVA system components (excluding rigging elements and modulation cables)

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2LOUDSPEAKER CONFIGURATIONS
2.1 Line source
In this configuration –where a KIVA line source is used without complementary subwoofers –the system operates
over the nominal bandwidth of the enclosure.
The [KIVA] preset allows for a reference frequency response in medium to long throw applications.
This configuration is driven by the LA4, LA4X or LA8 amplified controller.
Standalone KIVA line source
Enclosure
[PRESET]
KIVA
[KIVA]
Frequency range (-10 dB)
80 Hz –20 kHz

KIVA SYSTEM KIVA SB15m
USER MANUAL
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2.2 Line source with low-frequency element
In this configuration –where a KIVA line source is used with SB15m subwoofers and optional SB18 subwoofers –the
bandwidth of the KIVA system is extended in the low-end and the LF contour is reinforced.
The [KIVA] preset allows for a reference frequency response in medium to long throw applications.
The [SB15_100] preset provides a 100 Hz upper frequency limit for the SB15m.
The [KIVA_SB15] preset combines the [KIVA] and [SB15_100] presets to facilitate the use of this configuration.
The [SB18_60] preset provides a 60 Hz upper frequency limit for the SB18.
This configuration is driven by the LA4, LA4X or LA8 amplified controller. When using the [KIVA_SB15] hybrid preset,
additional SB18 subwoofers must be driven by another amplified controller.
KIVA line source + coupled SB15m
Frequency range (-10 dB)
Enclosure
[PRESET]
40 Hz –20 kHz
KIVA
[KIVA]
Recommended ratio
SB15m
[SB15_100]
3 KIVA: 1 SB15m for a reinforced contour
or
6 KIVA: 1 SB15m for a flat contour
or
KIVA +SB15m
[KIVA_SB15]
Limits for close coupling
Maximum for mixed main/sub line: 12 KIVA + 4 SB15m
Maximum distance between adjacent main/sub lines: 1.35 m
Delay settings
When combining a line source with subwoofers, delays may have to be added to the presets.
Refer to the PRESET GUIDE to obtain the pre-alignment delay values.
The [KIVA_SB15] hybrid preset does not allow the independent definition of parameters (gain, delay, etc.) for
different output channels.
When different parameters need to be defined for different channels, it is necessary to build a custom preset
with the [KIVA] and [SB15_100] presets. Refer to the LA NETWORK MANAGER tutorial for detailed
instructions
Use [SBxx_xx_C] with a SB subwoofer array in cardioid configuration
The cardioid configuration consists in reversing 1 element in an array of 4 subwoofers.
Refer to the SBxx user manual for details about the Cardioid configuration.

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KIVA line source + coupled SB15m + SB18
Enclosure
[PRESET]
Frequency range (-10 dB)
KIVA
[KIVA]
32 Hz –20 kHz
SB15m
[SB15_100]
Recommended ratio
SB18
[SB18_60]
3 KIVA: 1 SB15m: 1 SB18
or
KIVA +SB15m
[KIVA_SB15]
SB18
[SB18_60]
Delay settings
When combining a line source with subwoofers, delays may have to be added to the presets.
Refer to the PRESET GUIDE user manual to obtain the pre-alignment delay values.
The [KIVA_SB15] hybrid preset does not allow the independent definition of parameters (gain, delay, etc.) for
different output channels.
When different parameters need to be defined for different channels, it is necessary to build a custom preset
with the [KIVA] and [SB15_100] presets.
Refer to the LA NETWORK MANAGER tutorial for detailed instructions
Use [SBxx_xx_C] with a SB subwoofer array in cardioid configuration
The cardioid configuration consists in reversing 1 element in an array of 4 subwoofers.
Refer to the SBxx user manual for details about the Cardioid configuration.

KIVA SYSTEM KIVA SB15m
USER MANUAL
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2.3 Line source element
In this configuration –where one or two KIVA enclosures are used without complementary subwoofers –the system
operates over the nominal bandwidth of the enclosure.
The [KIVA_FI] preset allows for a reference frequency response in short throw applications.
This configuration is driven by the LA4, LA4X or LA8 amplified controller.
1 or 2 KIVA enclosures
Enclosure
[PRESET]
KIVA
[KIVA_FI]
Frequency range (-10 dB)
80 Hz –20 kHz

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2.4 Line source element with low-frequency element
In this configuration –where one or two KIVA enclosures are used with a complementary subwoofer –the
bandwidth of the KIVA system is extended in the low-end and the LF contour is reinforced.
The [KIVA_FI] preset allows for a reference frequency response in short throw applications.
The [SB15_100] preset provides a 100 Hz upper frequency limit for the SB15m.
This configuration is driven by the LA4, LA4X or LA8 amplified controller.
1 or 2 KIVA + coupled SB15m
Enclosure
[PRESET]
KIVA
[KIVA_FI]
SB15m
[SB15_100]
Frequency range (-10 dB)
40 Hz –20 kHz
Delay settings
When combining a line source with subwoofers, delays may have to be added to the presets.
Refer to the PRESET GUIDE to obtain the pre-alignment delay values.
Refer to the LA NETWORK MANAGER tutorial for detailed instructions
Use [SBxx_xx_C] with a SB subwoofer array in cardioid configuration
The cardioid configuration consists in reversing 1 element in an array of 4 subwoofers.
Refer to the SBxx user manual for details about the Cardioid configuration.

KIVA SYSTEM KIVA SB15m
USER MANUAL
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3LOUDSPEAKER CONNECTION
3.1 Connectors
The KIVA enclosure and SB15m subwoofer are equipped with two 4-point SpeakON®connectors wired in parallel.
The IN connector allows receiving the audio signal and the LINK connector allows routing it to another similar
enclosure in parallel.
Internal pinout for L-ACOUSTICS®KIVA enclosures.
SpeakON®points
1+
1 -
2 +
2 -
Transducer connectors
IN+
IN-
Not used
Not used
The SB15m connection in parallel is only possible with the LA8 amplified controller.
Internal pinout for L-ACOUSTICS®SB15m enclosures.
SpeakON®points
1+
1 -
2 +
2 -
Transducer connectors
LF+
LF -
Not used
Not used

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3.2 Connection to LA4 /LA4X
Maximum number of enclosures per LA4 /LA4X
Two KIVA or one SB15m can be connected to each output channel on the LA4 /LA4X. Therefore, a single
LA4 / LA4X amplified controller can drive up to:
8 KIVA or
4 SB15m or
6 KIVA and 1 SB15m.
Cardioid configuration
Connect the reversed subwoofer(s) to OUT 1 to use the cardioid preset.
SB15m subwoofer on OUT1 in hybrid configuration
Always connect the SB15m subwoofer to OUT1 when you use the [KIVA_SB15] preset.
1 enclosure
2 enclosures (only for KIVA)
8 Ω
4 Ω
SB18 connection
SB15m and SB18 subwoofers follow the same cabling schemes.
Option A
Use SP cables (SP.7, SP5, SP10 or SP25) to connect first enclosures to the four LA4 /LA4X output channels.
If necessary, use SP cables to connect additional KIVA enclosures in parallel with the first ones.
LA4 /LA4X option A maximum configuration with KIVA
LA4 /LA4X option A maximum configuration with KIVA + SB15m

KIVA SYSTEM KIVA SB15m
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LA4 /LA4X option A maximum configuration with SB15m

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Option B
Connect an SP cable (SP.7, SP5, SP10 or SP25) to the OUT1/OUT2 and OUT3/OUT4 connectors of the LA4 /
LA4X.
Use a CC4FP adapter to connect an SP-Y1 cable and separate the two output channels.
If necessary, use SP cables to connect additional KIVA enclosures in parallel with the first ones.
LA4 /LA4X option B maximum configuration with KIVA
LA4 /LA4X option B maximum configuration with KIVA + SB15m
LA4 /LA4X option B maximum configuration with SB15m

KIVA SYSTEM KIVA SB15m
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3.3 Connection to LA8
Maximum number of enclosures per LA8
Three KIVA or two SB15m can be connected in parallel to each output channel on the LA8.
Therefore, a single LA8 amplified controller can drive up to:
12 KIVA or
8 SB15m or
9 KIVA and 2 SB15m.
Cardioid configuration
Connect the reversed subwoofer(s) to OUT 1 to use the cardioid preset.
SB15m subwoofer on OUT1 in hybrid configuration
Always connect the SB15m subwoofer to OUT1 when you use the [KIVA_SB15] preset.
1 enclosure
2 enclosures
3 enclosures (only for KIVA).
8 Ω
4 Ω
2.7 Ω
Impedance load
8 Ω for 1 enclosure, 4 Ω for 2 enclosures, 2.7 Ω for 3 enclosures (only for KIVA).
SB18 connection
SB15m and SB18 subwoofers follow the same cabling schemes.
Option A
Connect a DO cable (DO.7, DO10 or DO25) to the LA8 PA-COM®connector
Use the DOSUB-LA8 to separate the four output channels.
If necessary, use SP cables to connect additional similar enclosures in parallel with the first ones.
Corresponding DOSUB-LA8 SpeakON®points and LA8 output channels:
SPK1 = OUT 1
SPK2 = OUT 2
SPK3 = OUT 3
SPK4 = OUT 4
LA8 option A maximum configuration with KIVA

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LA8 option A with KIVA + SB15m
LA8 option A maximum configuration with SB15m

KIVA SYSTEM KIVA SB15m
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Option B
Connect an SP cable (SP.7, SP5, SP10 or SP25) to the OUT1/OUT2 and OUT3/OUT4 LA8 SpeakON®connectors.
Use a CC4FP adapter to connect an SP-YI cable and separate the two output channels.
If necessary, use SP cables to connect additional similar enclosures in parallel with the first ones.
LA8 option B maximum configuration with KIVA
LA8 option B with KIVA + SB15m

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LA8 option A maximum configuration with SB15m

KIVA SYSTEM KIVA SB15m
USER MANUAL
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APPENDIX A PRESET DESCRIPTION
[KIVA]
The [KIVA] preset allows for a reference frequency response in medium to long throw applications.
Loudspeaker elements
Amplifier outputs
Channels
Default parameters
Routing
Gain
Delay
Polarity
Mute
KIVA
OUT 1
PA
IN A
0 dB
0 ms
+
ON
KIVA
OUT 2
PA
IN A
0 dB
0 ms
+
ON
KIVA
OUT 3
PA
IN A
0 dB
0 ms
+
ON
KIVA
OUT 4
PA
IN A
0 dB
0 ms
+
ON
[KIVA_FI]
The [KIVA_FI] preset allows for a reference frequency response in short throw applications.
Loudspeaker elements
Amplifier outputs
Channels
Default parameters
Routing
Gain
Delay
Polarity
Mute
KIVA
OUT 1
PA
IN A
0 dB
0 ms
+
ON
KIVA
OUT 2
PA
IN A
0 dB
0 ms
+
ON
KIVA
OUT 3
PA
IN B
0 dB
0 ms
+
ON
KIVA
OUT 4
PA
IN B
0 dB
0 ms
+
ON
* A, B: channel A or B
PA: passive output
[KIVA_SB15]
The [KIVA_SB15] preset combines the [KIVA] and [SB15_100] presets to facilitate the use of this configuration.
Loudspeaker elements
Amplifier outputs
Channels
Default parameters
Routing
Gain
Delay
Polarity
Mute
SB15m
OUT 1
LF
IN A
0 dB
0 ms
+
ON
KIVA
OUT 2
PA
ON
KIVA
OUT 3
PA
ON
KIVA
OUT 4
PA
ON
* A, B: channel A or B
PA: passive output
[SB15_100] and [SB18_60]
The [SB15_100] preset provides a 100 Hz upper frequency limit for the SB15m.
The [SB18_60] preset provides a 60 Hz upper frequency limit for the SB18.
Loudspeaker elements
Amplifier outputs
Channels
Default parameters
Routing
Gain
Delay
Polarity
Mute
SB
OUT 1
SB
IN A
0 dB
0 ms
+
ON
SB
OUT 2
SB
IN A
0 dB
0 ms
+
ON
SB
OUT 3
SB
IN B
0 dB
0 ms
+
ON
SB
OUT 4
SB
IN B
0 dB
0 ms
+
ON
* A, B: channel A or B
SB: subwoofer output