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M-Audio Active GSR12 & GSR18 PA Cabinets


delivers a 5Db boost, while Speech has a 90 Hz roll off to eliminate microphonic clatter during public address conferences or speeches. The modern trend for active PA


enclosures also provides a handy fail-safe situation if the artist’s passive


achieve a full band mix we also used Allen and Heath’s ZED 12FX passive mixer, a compact unit with built-in multiple effects. This set up provided a good environment to test the performance of the 112 enclosures’ high frequency titanium drivers.


Small and light power transformers combined with the lightweight Neodymium magnet on the LF drivers make for easy transportation…


mixer fails during a live performance. Heaven forbid, we don’t want to think about that, but if that unfortunate situation does arise, the GSR12’s on-board power amplifier includes a balanced 3-pin TRS combo (XLR/standard 1/4-inch jack socket) input that is sensitive enough to cater for mic and line level signals


During the live band sound check,


each GSR12 amplifier was just backed off from full volume with the Normal mode selected on the preset. Whilst on paper, 300-watts rms may seem a little low-key the LF drivers certainly delivered a long throw with a hefty mid-range punch and an impressive bass response, all of which remained present and smooth under pressure.


Also notable was company’s Optlmage wave technology that’s paired with the HF driver. This offers a 90x60 degree wide sound dispersion for maximum spread and proved very effective as we crossed the room checking the speakers’ sound path.


Sub-Conscious The GSR system forms a


powerful full-range PA when the tops and subs are combined.


connected directly to the powered cabinet. This could help to save the day if all that’s required is a basic, non complex PA situation. There’s also a full range ‘thru’ XLR output so an additional GSR12 powered cabinets can be daisy-chained within the system.


In use These features all worked perfectly within our studio test, but for our live gig situation we also hooked up the GSR18 500-watt rms sub woofer. To


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In contrast to the moulded 112 enclosures, the sub woofers feature a traditional hardwood construction with a tough, durable paint finish. The front facing 18-inch LF driver is protected by a hefty steel grill below which, the full width port sports a snazzy looking M-Audio badge. With two recessed metal side handles the 71lb (32kg) GSR18 is an acceptable weight for a 500-watt 1x18-inch sub woofer, combining power and portability with easy two-man lift via the recessed metal side handles. It’s also a breeze to transport around the venue on its own lockable castors.


Again Class D amplification is the choice for the power unit, with the same recessed rear control panel as the 112 enclosures, complete with status LEDs and an independent volume control.


Inputs include left and right combo XLR/TRS connections and left and right XLR loop-through outputs. There’s also a very useful 60-150hz variable low-frequency cross-over control for fine tuning the low end, and a 0/180 degree phase invert button is also part of a simple but


The GSR’s rear-mounted panel contains controls and connections for either stand-alone or full-range applications.


well thought out bass amplifier system that’s capable of delivering a full and focused sub bass response with maximum flexibility. Whilst there’s no doubt, the top cabs held up considerably in our live situation, it was smiles all around


thanks to the warmth of the extra low frequencies. With three vocals, two acoustic guitars plus effects, kick drum, snare and bass guitar in the mix, the overall sound of the band through the PA had depth, warmth and clarity right


The integrated carrying handles are a welcome aid to easy transportation.


when the earth moving sub frequencies kicked in as we gently upped the GSR18’s volume to about a third for a reassuringly tight, sub bass. As this weighty utterance is omni-directional, the depth and spread ideally had no focus point, as the PA took on a whole new level


to the back of the 120 strong audience. During the sets, an MP3 player was used for background music via the Hi Fi preset on the GSR12’s amplifiers, this setting proved invaluable as the low and hi boosts delivered a very full sound at low background levels. PM


SHOULD I BUY ONE?


The M-Audio GSR12 active cabinets are indeed very efficient and we liked their sleek modern design. They are also very flexible, offering the choice of a powerful stand alone PA or as part of a full range system when used in conjunction with additional GSR12s or the company’s GSR18 active sub woofer. Not all bands can afford or indeed have the room in cars or small vans for sub woofer cabinets, but the sonic rewards are gratifying against the extra space. Compact portable PA systems are part of a healthy, although very competitive market and the M-Audio GSR range of active speakers should certainly be on any potential PA buyers shortlist.


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