Meyer Sound Updates UPQ Line
Drawing on technologies developed for the LEO Family line array systems, Meyer Sound has updated its popular and proven UPQ point source loudspeakers with a new class D amplifier, new on-board signal processing for optimized frequency and phase response, and a 13-pound overall weight reduction.
The current UPQ-1P (80° x 50°) and UPQ-2P (50° x 50°) have been re-designated as, respectively, UPQ-D1 and UPQ-D2. A third variant, the UPQ-D3, offers a new 80° x 80° coverage option. All three variants retain the same exterior cabinet dimensions and rigging points as current UPQ models, allowing use of the same mounting and rigging accessories.
“Our UPQ series has been enormously successful, but we decided the time had come to offer a new coverage variant while updating the entire series with the latest amplifier and signal processing technologies,” says Pablo Espinosa, Meyer Sound’s vice president and chief loudspeaker designer. “This greatly extends the versatility of one of our most widely used loudspeaker lines in a lighter package.”
All three new variants incorporate the same proven driver complement as the prior versions. The low frequency section relies on a 15-inch neodymium magnet cone driver while high frequencies are reproduced by a 4-inch diaphragm compression driver. Both drivers are manufactured at Meyer Sound’s Berkeley campus.
The new two-channel class D amplifier is designed for high efficiency with reduced current draw, yet produces a total peak output power of 1800 watts. A new generation of phase-corrected signal processing results in flatter frequency and phase response for superior transient reproduction and precise imaging.
All UPQ-D series models have an operating frequency range of 53 Hz to 19 kHz with phase response of 80 Hz to 18 kHz ± 45°. Linear peak SPL is 133 dB measured with M-Noise, free-field at 4 m referred to 1 m. The Constant-Q horn exhibits a gentle and uniform rolloff characteristic for predictable behavior when plotting room coverage. Performance specifications are the same for all three variants except for the high frequency horn patterns.
The new input module provides loop-through XLR-F and XLR-M connectors for balanced audio, as well as parallel powerCON 20 AC line connectors. The optional RMS™ remote monitoring system module provides comprehensive monitoring of loudspeaker parameters from a host computer running Compass® software. An optional XLR 5 pin connector is available to accommodate both balanced audio and RMS signals. Note that, due to significant changes in the internal cabinet structure, the new amplifier and processing module may not be retrofitted into current UPQ loudspeakers.
The redesigned cabinet retains the original size, grille frame, and is compatible with all the rigging options of previous UPQ products.
The new UPQ series loudspeakers are suited to a wide range of portable and installed applications ranging from main loudspeakers in small and mid-sized venues to fill systems in larger venues.