Next PROAUDIO PFA18spHP User manual

V201610
PFA18sHP/PFA18spHP
ACTIVE/Passive Front-Loaded High
Power Subwoofer
USER MANUAL

NEXT PFA18sHP/PFA18spHP - User Manual
www.next-proaudio.com
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION - 1 -
UNPACKING - 1 -
PFA SERIES OVERVIEW - 1 -
SAFETY FIRST - 2 -
PFA18sHP POWER AMPLIFIER AND DSP - 4 -
PFA18spHP - 5 -
WARRANTY - 6 -
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS - 6 -
CONTACTS - 8 -

NEXT PFA18sHP/PFA18spHP - User Manual
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- 1 -
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing a NEXT PFA18s(p)HP ACTIVE/Passive Front-Loaded High Power
Subwoofer. This manual will provide you with useful and important information about your
PFA18s(p)HP element. Please devote some time reading this manual, and keep it at hand for future
reference. NEXT-proaudio is concerned with your safety and well-being, so please follow all
instructions and heed all warnings. Also, a better understanding of some specific features of the
PFA18s(p)HP will help you to operate it to its full potential. With a continuous evolution of techniques
and standards, NEXT-proaudio, reserves the right to change the specifications of its products without
early warning. For the most current data, please visit our website: www.next-proaudio.com
UNPACKING
NEXT PFA Series systems are built in Europe (Portugal) by NEXT-proaudio, according to the
highest standards and thoroughly inspected before they leave the factory. When unpacking your
PFA18sHP, examine it carefully for any signs of possible transit damage and inform your dealer
immediately if any such damage has occurred.
It is suggested that you retain the original packaging so that the PFA18sHP can be repacked
in the future if necessary. Please note that NEXT-proaudio and its authorized distributors cannot
accept any responsibility for damage to any returned product through the use of non-approved
packaging.
PFA SERIES OVERVIEW
NEXT-proaudio engineered the new PFA line of self-powered or passive speaker cabinets,
specifically for installations, musicians and DJs who want state-of-the-art acoustics and electronics
at a limited budget. This speaker line employs premium-quality multi-plywood with a hardening,
durable, and scratch-resistant coating, fully rotatable constant directivity horns to adjust H x V angle
coverage and custom made speaker drivers. Manufacturing takes place in Europe at our plant based
in Rio Tinto, Portugal.
This series are made up of speakers and subwoofers that bind together forming the perfect
combination. Several combinations of speakers and subwoofers can be done in order to satisfy your
needs. The active speakers feature a variety of factory presets that allow you to use it like a plug n’
play perfect solution for the venue.
The PFA18sHP is an 18” vented direct-radiator exhibiting outstanding transient response and
capable of delivering very high sound pressure levels.

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V201610
SAFETY FIRST
Please pay close attention to this chapter. Failure to comply with these instructions may
result on injury or death.
NEXT PFA Series systems are capable of producing extremely high sound
pressure levels and should be used with care. Hearing loss is cumulative
and can result from levels above 90dB if people are exposed for a long
period. Never stand close to loudspeakers driven at high levels.
DANGER – HEARING DAMAGE
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE
REFER SERVICE TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL

NEXT PFA18sHP/PFA18spHP - User Manual
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•Do not use your PFA18sHP near any sources of water, like swimming pools, lakes,
water streams, exposed to rain, high humidity environments or any other source of
water or moisture.
•Use only a soft dry cloth to clean your PFA18sHP.
•Never place your PFA18sHP in a way that prevents air flow near the amplifier. A
minimum clearance distance of 6cm should be kept between the amplifier and any
near surface.
•Never use your PFA18sHP too close to any heat source, such as radiators, or any other
device that produces heat.
•When mounted on a pole, always ensure that the floor or structure where the stack
will take place is even and can withstand the weight.
•Place cables in a way that they do not present a trip hazard.
•Do not place any objects on top of the stack, they can fall accidentally and cause
injuries.
•Do not attempt to move the enclosures while connected.
•Do not attempt to service the PFA18sHP beyond what is described in this manual. All
other service or repair of this product should be carried only by qualified personnel.
•To prevent electric shock, do not use any extension cord, receptacle or other outlets
where the blades of the connectors cannot be fully inserted.
•Precautions should be taken to prevent grounding failure or polarity switch.
•It is advised to unplug the PFA18sHP during storms or when not in use for a long
period of time.
RIGGING AND SUSPENSION SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
PFA Series enclosures are designed for portable applications, but can be suspended
by means of the threaded inserts provided. These enclosures are fitted internally with steel
corner reinforcement brackets to ensure that each cabinet is strong enough to be hung from
its top.
•Before rigging or suspending NEXT PFA Series systems, inspect all components and
all hardware for any signs of damage or missing parts. If you find any damaged,
corroded or deformed parts, do not use them, replace them immediately.

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V201610
•Do not use hardware that isn’t load rated or that its’ rating is not enough to handle the
system’s weight with a good safety factor (minimum 4:1).
•Suspended systems installation should only be carried out by qualified personnel.
•Always use adequate protective clothing and equipment to prevent possible injuries.
•Be sure you understand all local and national regulations regarding equipment
installation.
PFA18sHP POWER AMPLIFIER
AND DSP
The PFA18sHP as all PFA series models, was designed to
achieve a simple to use and deploy versatile system. The
amplifier was designed to power the PFA18sHP with
2200W. The PFA18sHP, like all PFA series models, is
prepared to be completely plug’ n play, having already six
pre-determined configurations that cover almost all
situations. But if you’re not happy with any of those, there
are also two available user defined configurations, which
can be used to adapt the system to your needs using the
NEXT-proaudio SOUNDWARE1software and the supplied
RS485 to USB converter.
Here is a brief description of the amplifier panel:
1- Signal Input/Output
2- Level Adjustment Potentiometer
3- Preset Selector
4- RS485 Communication Interface
5- List of Available Presets
6- AC Mains Power Input/Output
7- Protection Circuit Breaker
8- Power On/Off Switch
1Download NEXT-proaudio SOUNDWARE at www.next-proaudio.com/downloads
1
2
3
4
6
5
7
8
Never operate the PFA series Speakers
in a way that maintains the Limiter Led
consistently on.

NEXT PFA18sHP/PFA18spHP - User Manual
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PFA118sHP Preset List:
0- LP-80Hz: Low-pass filter at 80Hz 24dB/Oct Linkwitz-Riley
1- LP-100Hz: Low-pass filter at 100Hz 24dB/Oct Linkwitz-Riley (It can also be used on a cardioid
configuration on the front-facing PFA118sHP subwoofer
2- LP-100Hz Cardioid: It must be used on a cardioid arrangement on the rear-facing PFA118sHP
subwoofer (no other adjustments needed)
3- No LP (User Select): A Low-pass filter can be defined by the user accordingly to their needs
4- System: Is a “Tailor Made” Preset only applicable to the system designated on the “Programmed
System” label
5- System Cardioid: Is the twin brother of Preset number 4. Must be used on the rear-facing
subwoofer on a cardioid arrangement (no other adjustments needed)
6 / 7- User Defined: Free memory for user storage
PFA18spHP
The PFA18spHP is the passive version of the PFA18sHP.
Able to deliver an extremely high output and dynamics
for its size, extreme linearity and fidelity, is one of the
best solutions in its class, in terms of price/quality ratio
on the market. PFA18spHP is an 8Ω speaker with
2400W resulting in an extremely high power signal
output. The speaker must be connected using a 4-point
SpeakON connector on 1+ / 1- speakON points.
This subwoofer can be used to complement the PFA full-
range speaker extending its bandwidth.

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V201610
WARRANTY
NEXT-proaudio’s products are warranted, by NEXT-proaudio, against manufacturing defects
in materials or craftsmanship over a period of 5 years for the passive loudspeakers, and 2 years for
all other products counting from the date of original purchase. The original receipt of purchase is
mandatory for warranty validation purposes, and the product must have been bought from a NEXT-
proaudio authorized dealer.
The warranty can be transferred to a subsequent owner during the warranty period; however,
this cannot extend the warranty period beyond the original warranty period of five years from the
original date of purchase stated on the NEXT-proaudio’s invoice.
During the warranty period NEXT-proaudio will, at its own discretion, either repair or replace
a product which prove to be defective provided that the product is returned in its original packaging,
shipping prepaid, to an authorized NEXT-proaudio service agent or distributor.
NEXT-proaudio cannot be held responsible for defects caused by unauthorized modifications,
improper use, negligence, exposure to inclement weather conditions, act of God or accident, or any
use of this product that is not in accordance with the instructions provided by this manual and/or
NEXT-proaudio. NEXT-proaudio is not liable for consequential damages.
This warranty is exclusive and no other warranty is expressed or implied. This warranty does
not affect your statutory rights.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
PFA18sHP Block Diagram

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DIMENSIONS
NEXT PFA18sHP TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Speaker Type
ACTIVE Reflex Subwoofer
Frequency Response (-6dB)
38Hz – X-Over
Calculated Max. SPL (Cont/Peak)
136dB / 142dB (Half-Space)
Components
1 x 18” Long Excursion / 4” Voice Coil Custom B&C Speaker
Amplifier Technology
Switched Mode Class D with DSP (2200W)
Construction
18mm Multi-laminate Birch Plywood, Screwed and Glued
Finish
Black Textured Scratch Resistant Paint
Grille
Steel, Black Finish (also available in other colours)
Dimensions (W x H x D)
525 x 703 x 735 mm
Net Weight
47.9 kg
Shipping Weight
51.5 kg
NEXT PFA18spHP TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Speaker Type
Passive Reflex Subwoofer
Frequency Response (-6dB)
38Hz – 270Hz
Calculated Max. SPL (Cont/Peak)
137dB / 143dB (Half-Space)
Components
1 x 18” Long Excursion / 4” Voice Coil Custom B&C Speaker
Program Power
2400W
Nominal Impedance
8Ω
Construction
18mm Multi-laminate Birch Plywood, Screwed and Glued
Finish
Black Textured Scratch Resistant Paint
Grille
Steel, Black Finish (also available in other colours)
Dimensions (W x H x D) 525 x 703 x 735 mm
Net Weight
44.8 kg
Shipping Weight
48.3 kg

NEXT PFA18sHP/PFA18spHP - User Manual
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V201610
CONTACTS
In case of any doubts or any information just:
Write us:
NEXT-proaudio
Rua da Venda Nova, 295
4435-469 Rio Tinto
Portugal
Contact us:
Tel. [phone]
Fax. [phone]
Send an e-mail:
[e-mail]
Search our website:
www.next-proaudio.com
Follow us on:
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LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/next-proaudio
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