The delay isn’t vertical distance of the speaker/sub, it’s distance to the audience ears. They are almost the same distance so no delay should be needed for your use.
This speaker isn’t a ‘column array’. It’s a point source speaker with the mid-bass drivers in a dipole arrangement. They are commonly used on their side with a different horn in actual line arrays (d&b T/Y/V/SL series, L’acoustics Kiva/Kara/K3/2/1 etc) I personally use d&b Y10p and Q7 (the point source counterpart to the above) and it works the exact same as the NXL14, except mine have bigger drivers (dual 8” and dual 10” respectively) An added benefit of this design is better dispersion control of your mids (the mids are more directional with a smaller driver meaning less unnecessary excitement of a reverberant space). The dispersion is only on one plane though, in your case it’s more directional vertically but still wide horizontally.
Finally! Somebody should have thought of this years ago when we all had big cabinets over subs. All we really needed were smaller cabinets with excellent mid range and highs, but instead we reinvented the wheel with column arrays. Hopefully this trend catches on, so you can pair them with any sub you like (or already have).
Well its new in the RCF line up, but two other Italian speakers has done this for years FBT Vertus CLA 206A (133dB) and less known the DB Technologies VIO X206 (131dB). Or if you are into the LD Systems hype after their succes with the Maui44G2, IMO I have always found the LD Systems Stinger 28A G3 had a good price/power/sound/look-ratio, and it has ordinary dual-tilt pole mount no fidling with extra screw-on-pole-mount like the RCF. Stinger 28A on top of a 18" sub it sounds really good - 18" sub, 2x 8" low+low mid and German BMS driver for high mid+highs.
The driver in the middle is a HF driver (not midrange like you said), the two 6" drivers are for the midrange, add a RCF AX sub and you have your LF driver making it a proper 3-way system.
This is my next speaker. Keeping my K12.2’s but the sound quality at this size is what has sold me. The 15AX is incredibly powerful for being so lightweight. My back isn’t getting any younger 😂 Leveling up for ‘25
They sound crystal clear, horizontal dispersión is good. What I did not lilke was 1, amp gets too hot, 2 vertical dispersión of tweeter is not good and it does not have tilt optión
This is a great configuration! A few years ago when I was deciding which direction to go, I wasn't happy with the column array options. None that I demo'ed had the high end sparkle, and didn't go all that low with the included subs. I was salivating over the NXL-24A, but it was just too big for mobile DJ work. I ended up building my own with Eminence drivers using 2 x 8" with a compression driver on a LA-WG14 waveguide. Fantastic. After living with these for a few years, I wish I would have gone with 6" class neodymium midrange woofers like these RCF's use. I use mine on lighted totems with a double 18" tucked under the DJ booth. People are going love these. One problem I believe they solve, which is probably part of you sounding better on the mic, is that they avoid the common problem of traditional tops + subs and the overlapping of the lower mids. Also, I like the more traditional line array waveguide that's wider horizontally and thinner vertically, but I understand why they included the dimensions they did for more versatility. These probably make good monitors for live musicians. Thanks for showing these off!
Thx for the review. I use the EV Evolve 50 for small Weddings and for larger Weddings I use QSC K12.2 & QSC 212C (Double 12' setup). Anything larger I have the RCF ART745 & RCF AX18. I will stay with my QSC setup for this pocket.
Get RCF tops bro. QSC tops sound so unnatural especially at loud volumes. Get some RCF ART 10" tops for amazing natural sound. RCF AX subs for real bass that smokes the QSC subs including the KS118.
I heard these speakers in September 2024 at the Plasa Show in London UK, and they are no joke. They are very impressive for the size. During the demo, I thought a sub was being played with them.....
Heard this at Harvest of Sound - over the 15 ax sub - OMG - this thing is awesome... If I was in the market for new speakers -> this is it! As far as the throw... I don't want the whole neighborhood to hear, just the folks at the event / dance floor!
Great review! Thanks! I probably would have bought these if they were out last year but I got the comparable FBT Ventos 206a which is almost the same except the woofers are 6.5" and the high end driver is at the top. It's worth noting the the big brother, the NXL-24A MK2, which has four 6" woofers as opposed to two, has the high end driver at the top and it is designed for throwing sound. That's why you see DJs, like Demand, have them mounted lower than a traditional box, because if they're right alongside the dance floor, the highs will literally go over people's heads.
Nothing wrong with the FBT Ventus 206A, they have a ordinary stand adapter in the bottom and absolutely sound good at a better price than the new RCF´s. The extra 0,5" also a plus and probably why the do 70Hz at -6dB where the RCF is -10dB. FBT even a bit louder. The 2100W on the RCF´s are PEAK, I have had RCF speakers for many years and I hate that RCF now use these PEAK wattage and not the real RMS.
I would use these for a crowd of 100 or less with two subs. It should do most weddings. RCF does have good clarity so this system should be a winner. The really good part is being able to use 15 inch subs rather than 12 inch subs. For bigger events I would go with the NXL24 and two 18 inch subs. This would be good for me outdoors or big crowds of like 300. I do a few community day events outdoors with hundreds of people walking around. A bigger system would be great for this.
Awesome video Nick! I’m a huge RCF fan. I own and love NX932s and have these NXL-14As on order along with Sub 15-AXs. Arriving in March. Hard to find them in stock right now!
A delay for vertical distance between two speakers? Why? I think the delay is for if your using multiple speakers set a horizontal distance from one another not vertical.
Heard these at NAMM last year and they are great. FYI I use NXL24 column array’s outside all the time. That speaker is awesome outdoors. But it’s a different animal all together 👍🏾
Two Technics, a Numark or a Gemini mixer. 2- 15inch JBL tops and 2 -18inch Cerwin Vega subs got it all done for 20yrs. Now for the past 8yrs, they tell me I need a new controller every year. New speakers every year. New this and that every year!! 😂 I guess it is what it is!
a speaker with dual 6in woofers and 1 compression driver is still considered a 2way speaker, a 3 way speaker consist of drivers(speakers) that produce different frequencies
I'm getting a kick out of watching all the consumer grade brands copying the Meyer Sound speakers. FYI, delay in these cases are not for vertical distance, it's for time and phase aligning in the horizontal plane.
Wait till the EV 75 and EV 100 come out. Compare them with these RCF speakers when you get them. I'll buy what you recommend after you test them when they come out. I bet EV will destroy these just a thought. Thanks Nick, your the best
This is basically a wood version of the RCF HDL 6A. Only thing missing is the flying hardware. Most column arrays are “3 way” with a sub, midrange woofer and horn.
Please look into the Turbosound Inspire 3000, it has 16 midrange, 2 compression drivers, 2 12" woofers each (Turbosound has been making concert systems since the 70') $1999. Now available $1499.
delay in a vertical manner - tops over the subs - is disruptive for hitting the dance floor a the same time. don’t repeat it as a satellite over a sub is already lined up correctly. otherwise you would just be phasing out the starting point of the sound emission :)
All frequencies travel at the same speed Nick. Speed is a function of the medium, not of the frequency. There’s no reason to add delay if the tops are aligned with the subs. Only when your sub is behind (corner of a room for example).
@ I stand corrected but there’s much more to this - I’m gonna do a whole video on it because there’s an entire science behind it based on the speaker and most DJs don’t know. The sound engineers from RCF told me that setting the delay based on the height of the speaker is 100% necessary and it makes a huge difference. Coming soon!
@@NickSpinelli delay is required only when your head is a different distance from the tops/subs. So yes, if the tops are really high up (concert situations), they will take more time to reach the audience, and delaying the subs is necessary to give enough time to the tops to reach you. But for a typical wedding ballroom, the distance between the guests’ heads and the subs/tops rarely is significant enough to require any delays. Unless you hide your subs in the corners of the room. The most prestigious speaker manufacturers (we’re talking about 100k’s hand crafted speakers) don’t even recommend delays in home installations, even though the subs are never aligned with the mains. What matters is careful eq-ing. Wavelengths do weird stuff when phases add/cancel each other. But delays? Not something you need to worry about for weddings (unless again your subs are far away). As a matter of fact if you do care about these little details like you say in the video, you will have a far better sounding system with only one sub (or alternatively coupling your subs in front of your booth, like Barr does). Having two subs left and right creates valleys on your dancefloor. That has MUCH more impact on the quality of your sound, than a tiny 2ms delay.
I agree that column arrays don't throw that far. But I have a pair of Yorkville EXM mobile towers. They are battery powered so I can pretty much put them right on the dance floor or at least right beside it. Yes they are not as powerful as these RCF's but if I can reach the ppl on the dance floor easily then I'm good. Plus I don't book weddings larger than 150.00 ppl. But the RCF's sound great, my only con although I haven't heard them in the real world is the look. They are ugly. But great video Nick, killing it as always
Been in interested in the setup for a bit. Nice review. To me other other Con would be the mountain of the top.. I believe you need to buy that extra mounting and kinda of a hassle to have those mounted to the speaker just to get it on a pole. What your thought on the top mounting?
I got RCF SUB 15-AX last summer and I paired them with RCF ART 912-AX. This system is badass for almost any event I do,. The only place where subs are lacking is with bands and bass guitars, as the lowest notes start to drop off at maximum volumes. I will probably also get 18-AX subs as well and NXL 14-A, then I can use ART 912-AX as sidefills and outdoors too. Traditional column arrays are unsuitable for most of the events, unless you party in your living room. Been telling that for years but still so few listen. The new RCF AX series is just amasing and I won't be looking any further for at least 3-4 years with these bad boys :) Some DJ-youtubers praising those column arrays really lowered their reputation for me while promoting them in various inapproriate places with very high confidence. You are one of the few dudes out there who knows what he is talking about!
or actually, in longer rooms, use ART's as tops and NXL-s as sidefills. They are nice discrete and do not shine out too much :) 15-AX is suitable for most people (except bands with bass guitars that need a lot of low end), as they both fit almost into any car and are more powerful than many 18 inch subs too.
Hey Nick, this setup especially with the subs is meant for larger venues that have the space, right? Which setup do you use if you have hardly any space for your setup? Greetings from Munich/Germany.
I’m not buying anything he recommends. @ 6:45 you said you turned the sub at 0 then damn near 30 seconds later you said to turn the subs all the way up. Which is it bruh?
I ‘m not so convinced of the RCF PRO series NX and NXL, however I use a couple of NX 45a for Mobile DJ applications (with 8004 Subs) The good thing, they are quite affordable, compared to the RCF Touring Series TT. But shouldn't we invest a little more money for having full satisfaction? Sometimes I have the impression the NX 45-a sound a bit artificial or digital (comparing with my old Nexo PS-15 sounding much warmer and more natural).
Beautyful speaker, no need for column-arrays to look good. But be aware of the frequency range is 70 - 20,000 Hz and that is by -10 dB, I haven´t see the freq-curve for these yet but I expect a big drop of in the low end for 2x 6" woofers. So pairing with 15" sub probably is the best choice for a smooth x-over from top to sub. The 2100W is PEAK, and what a pity that it is a screw-on-stand-adapter, who want to bother with and adapter each time 🤨 FBT Ventis 206A has ordinary stand adapter and frequency response: 70 Hz - 20 kHz (-6 dB) with 2x 6,5" woofers + 2-3dB more and at a lower price, but doesnt look as good as the RCF. Could be a hard choice between those 2 Italians.
If I buy a pair of these and a pair of subs, do either come with poles or do I buy those separately? And do they come with all necessary powercon cables?
defintiley not with out a sub, frequency response is to 70hz, further more studio monitors are required to be extremely flat, most pa speakers are not all that flat, maybe with dsp processing you might be able to get it flat BUT, its for PA use NOT studio use
Where do you find the RCF recommended volume level settings? I'm running 945's and 8004's and want to make sure I'm getting the most out of them! (Already running through an external RCF 10 channel mixer)
The term “Column Array” gets thrown around a lot. I feel that some of this is because of the look and design of top cabinets being more slender by use of dual smaller midbass drivers vs a wider, more traditional single 10-15” driver that would require a wider cabinet. Shop around though. With the right drivers, wave guides and dispersion characteristics, a “column array” can fill a room just as good as the traditional two driver cabinets. They just have a more appealing look because they’re not so wide and bulky. It’s the trend now. And I’m okay with that. I use this newer style of top cabinet myself because I think they look less intrusive. I’m sure these RCF’s sound pretty good.
So basically it's a more affordable version of the RCF TT515-A nice so i would say the box has a slight edge on the high-end ...... P.S I dissagree with your opinion on The RCF EVOX 12 tho on a new years event we had 2 broadway singers come perform for about 100 guest sounded really good i played there instrumental tracks they sang over the music all i did was eq the Mackie and the night was a big hit.........thats just my take on the EVOX 12
Hi, did you ever tested subs 18-ax together with art945? If not can you do it for me? I have 2x art945 and thinking to buy 18-ax subs for make set, but not sure if they powerful enough. Thanks
You might find this interesting. This is the closest I've found displaying the difference between speakers. I'm curious if anyone has a resource for how sound changes when wood vs plastic cabinets are used. YTuber "Jim Lill" where does the tone come from a speaker cabinet?
@@elliotchocano9374 I just always only want to buy gear for the biggest gig. Don't like the concept of having multiple sets of speakers. But sure, having both the 14's and 24's would be chef's kiss optimal!
@@rjpimprov I'm with you. But let me tell you I'm so glad I kept my light evolve 50s. Had a few small gigs with only stairs and I would have been dead without them 😂 also fits in my car for mini events.
Not being funny but my ev evolve 50 sound good at high vol when I got singer or mc on the micphone over backing music I think got have system setup right on mixer
This isn’t a column array. You should research what a column array, a point source speaker, a 2 way cabinet, a 3 way cabinet, and line array speaker is. There are people who spend a lot of money on wrong equipment because they don’t understand what they are buying. I’m sure it sounds fantastic but it’s not a column array. This is literally a line array speaker on its side.
True1 Powercon connectors are only pushed on the market because Neutrik is paying brands like RCF to switch to True1. The True1 was introduced in 2011 so not new and Neutrik's original plan was to end the life cycle of the original Powercon in 2016. Only problem for Neutrik was that China adopted the original Powercon and now China is selling several times more the amount of the original Powercon than Neutrik does. Same is starting to happen to the True1 but that design still hasn't payed enough for Neutrik. So in a crazy attempt to get more revenue on the True1, Neutrik is paying brands like RCF to adopt it for all their speaker models. The funny thing is that with that they are also helping their Chinese competitors sell more True1 copies. This is all first hand information from Neutrik.
It's not about failure, it's first about gain,,bandwidth and more tuning of sound. A emergency backup plan is secondary. That's insurance, you pay and hope you never need it.
The delay isn’t vertical distance of the speaker/sub, it’s distance to the audience ears. They are almost the same distance so no delay should be needed for your use.
This speaker isn’t a ‘column array’.
It’s a point source speaker with the mid-bass drivers in a dipole arrangement. They are commonly used on their side with a different horn in actual line arrays (d&b T/Y/V/SL series, L’acoustics Kiva/Kara/K3/2/1 etc)
I personally use d&b Y10p and Q7 (the point source counterpart to the above) and it works the exact same as the NXL14, except mine have bigger drivers (dual 8” and dual 10” respectively)
An added benefit of this design is better dispersion control of your mids (the mids are more directional with a smaller driver meaning less unnecessary excitement of a reverberant space). The dispersion is only on one plane though, in your case it’s more directional vertically but still wide horizontally.
My favorite point sources is D&B V10 or pretty similar TW Audio K20 👍 You have awesome system ✌
Finally! Somebody should have thought of this years ago when we all had big cabinets over subs. All we really needed were smaller cabinets with excellent mid range and highs, but instead we reinvented the wheel with column arrays. Hopefully this trend catches on, so you can pair them with any sub you like (or already have).
Well its new in the RCF line up, but two other Italian speakers has done this for years FBT Vertus CLA 206A (133dB) and less known the DB Technologies VIO X206 (131dB). Or if you are into the LD Systems hype after their succes with the Maui44G2, IMO I have always found the LD Systems Stinger 28A G3 had a good price/power/sound/look-ratio, and it has ordinary dual-tilt pole mount no fidling with extra screw-on-pole-mount like the RCF. Stinger 28A on top of a 18" sub it sounds really good - 18" sub, 2x 8" low+low mid and German BMS driver for high mid+highs.
Thanks for this Nick! I also bought a pair of 18 icoa just on your earlier videos didn't even test before buying, and it didn't dissappoint!
If the speakers are in the same plane, you don’t delay
It's for the people dancin' on the ceiling. 🤣
The driver in the middle is a HF driver (not midrange like you said), the two 6" drivers are for the midrange, add a RCF AX sub and you have your LF driver making it a proper 3-way system.
This is my next speaker. Keeping my K12.2’s but the sound quality at this size is what has sold me. The 15AX is incredibly powerful for being so lightweight. My back isn’t getting any younger 😂 Leveling up for ‘25
Qsc is dropping something Jan 13 ;)
@@kvnkrz271 I'm excited!
@@kvnkrz271 12" column array only.
Holy haircut!!!! 😂❤
Left my hair in 2024!
Apparently so!!!! Now you’re BUILT FOR SPEED!!! 😂 🏎️
I’m HAPPY with my TURBOSOUND ip300s 👌🏼
They sound crystal clear, horizontal dispersión is good. What I did not lilke was 1, amp gets too hot, 2 vertical dispersión of tweeter is not good and it does not have tilt optión
This is a great configuration! A few years ago when I was deciding which direction to go, I wasn't happy with the column array options. None that I demo'ed had the high end sparkle, and didn't go all that low with the included subs. I was salivating over the NXL-24A, but it was just too big for mobile DJ work. I ended up building my own with Eminence drivers using 2 x 8" with a compression driver on a LA-WG14 waveguide. Fantastic. After living with these for a few years, I wish I would have gone with 6" class neodymium midrange woofers like these RCF's use. I use mine on lighted totems with a double 18" tucked under the DJ booth. People are going love these.
One problem I believe they solve, which is probably part of you sounding better on the mic, is that they avoid the common problem of traditional tops + subs and the overlapping of the lower mids. Also, I like the more traditional line array waveguide that's wider horizontally and thinner vertically, but I understand why they included the dimensions they did for more versatility. These probably make good monitors for live musicians. Thanks for showing these off!
you can add a crossover to help alleviate the 70-100hz overlapping no?
Thx for the review. I use the EV Evolve 50 for small Weddings and for larger Weddings I use QSC K12.2 & QSC 212C (Double 12' setup). Anything larger I have the RCF ART745 & RCF AX18. I will stay with my QSC setup for this pocket.
Get RCF tops bro. QSC tops sound so unnatural especially at loud volumes. Get some RCF ART 10" tops for amazing natural sound. RCF AX subs for real bass that smokes the QSC subs including the KS118.
Why would he get some 10s when he already has 745s which are absolutely the best point source speakers in that category?
I heard these speakers in September 2024 at the Plasa Show in London UK, and they are no joke. They are very impressive for the size. During the demo, I thought a sub was being played with them.....
RCF is the Snap-on tools of Speakers 🔥
Heard this at Harvest of Sound - over the 15 ax sub - OMG - this thing is awesome... If I was in the market for new speakers -> this is it! As far as the throw... I don't want the whole neighborhood to hear, just the folks at the event / dance floor!
That was day 1 and I missed it! Day 2 was pretty epic though!! What a time!! I heard is speaker at lower volumes in the vendor room. Amazing
@@clarkgourguejr Yes - in the vendor room is where we really got to see it shine!
Hey! Idjnow has these 20% off right now! Just purchased!!
Great review! Thanks! I probably would have bought these if they were out last year but I got the comparable FBT Ventos 206a which is almost the same except the woofers are 6.5" and the high end driver is at the top. It's worth noting the the big brother, the NXL-24A MK2, which has four 6" woofers as opposed to two, has the high end driver at the top and it is designed for throwing sound. That's why you see DJs, like Demand, have them mounted lower than a traditional box, because if they're right alongside the dance floor, the highs will literally go over people's heads.
Nothing wrong with the FBT Ventus 206A, they have a ordinary stand adapter in the bottom and absolutely sound good at a better price than the new RCF´s. The extra 0,5" also a plus and probably why the do 70Hz at -6dB where the RCF is -10dB. FBT even a bit louder. The 2100W on the RCF´s are PEAK, I have had RCF speakers for many years and I hate that RCF now use these PEAK wattage and not the real RMS.
I have the 24-A MK2s paired with SUB 18-AXs and they sound amazing
These are my speakers... I'm sold!!!
Idjnow has them 20% off right now!
Always killing it with the latest gear
Also I do believe you can change the compression drivers cone direction for a more ‘vertical’ dispersion (if you need that for whatever reason) lol
RCF is the way to go
I would use these for a crowd of 100 or less with two subs. It should do most weddings. RCF does have good clarity so this system should be a winner. The really good part is being able to use 15 inch subs rather than 12 inch subs.
For bigger events I would go with the NXL24 and two 18 inch subs. This would be good for me outdoors or big crowds of like 300. I do a few community day events outdoors with hundreds of people walking around. A bigger system would be great for this.
Speakers are dope
Love your content Nick!
Awesome video Nick! I’m a huge RCF fan. I own and love NX932s and have these NXL-14As on order along with Sub 15-AXs. Arriving in March. Hard to find them in stock right now!
Great Got My Answer Regarding The Setup...👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
A delay for vertical distance between two speakers? Why? I think the delay is for if your using multiple speakers set a horizontal distance from one another not vertical.
you are correct. I am a fan of Nick's channel but unfortunately there is a lot of misinformation in this video.
Agreed. He was incorrect unfortunately.
Starting a “bad boy” count 😂
😂😂😂
6:58 I did not know this, i've been running these my 932's at 3 o'clock all the time. Maybe I should read the manual, lol.
Heard these at NAMM last year and they are great. FYI I use NXL24 column array’s outside all the time. That speaker is awesome outdoors. But it’s a different animal all together 👍🏾
Yeah they’re great!
I love it! I just wish the speaker had a hole in the bottom instead of having to attach the mount every time.
same.
So do you think these would be better than my evo 50s? With no sub?
Ive used nxl line (44A) for the last 4 yrs I believe. Never went back
Two Technics, a Numark or a Gemini mixer. 2- 15inch JBL tops and 2 -18inch Cerwin Vega subs got it all done for 20yrs. Now for the past 8yrs, they tell me I need a new controller every year. New speakers every year. New this and that every year!! 😂 I guess it is what it is!
a speaker with dual 6in woofers and 1 compression driver is still considered a 2way speaker, a 3 way speaker consist of drivers(speakers) that produce different frequencies
It’s not a column array speaker, it has a horn and that shape is responsible for the throw distance (along with the 128db SPL).
👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 RCF or BUST!! | Aldie Mansion -- you bring the 945A's in there you'll blow out one of those 100 year old windows.
@@DJESGTV lmao you ain’t lying!
so glad this comes in white! :)
I think they look great in white!
Nxl14 vs the 24s. Thoughts??? Love ya nick. Great stuff as always.
ooooooooh oooooooooh getting a excited!!! maybe even a touch of a..... wood
Was just looking at these for 2025. Nice review.
Idjnow has them 20%off!
“What is this A Party for Ants” 😂
The hair sold me
This reminds me of the older Line 6 rig
Audiophony mojo2000 and hk polar12 also has high frequency compression driver
Great review!! Thank you!!
Curious if these are louder than the evox12 tops. The evox12 tops have more speakers in the top that this. Not sure these are an evox12 killer.
I'm wondering the same. Probably not louder but clearer and cleaner.
Although these have a bigger amp for just the top than the Evox have in the entire system.
@@DJDigitalDave compare the SPL
I'm getting a kick out of watching all the consumer grade brands copying the Meyer Sound speakers.
FYI, delay in these cases are not for vertical distance, it's for time and phase aligning in the horizontal plane.
Wait till the EV 75 and EV 100 come out. Compare them with these RCF speakers when you get them. I'll buy what you recommend after you test them when they come out. I bet EV will destroy these just a thought. Thanks Nick, your the best
They will be 2 way speakers just like the 50. This setup in this video will blow them away just based on that alone
@@NickSpinelli how about compared to the LD 28 G3? Those come with tweeters right? Are they considered 3 way?
I’ve never heard an EV destroy an RCF, EVER. But ears and sound perception are def a matter of opinion and personal taste vs. fact.
This is basically a wood version of the RCF HDL 6A. Only thing missing is the flying hardware. Most column arrays are “3 way” with a sub, midrange woofer and horn.
Go go go Nick
Please look into the Turbosound Inspire 3000, it has 16 midrange, 2 compression drivers, 2 12" woofers each (Turbosound has been making concert systems since the 70')
$1999. Now available $1499.
How does it compare to the TT515? I don't need RD Net.
delay in a vertical manner - tops over the subs - is disruptive for hitting the dance floor a the same time. don’t repeat it as a satellite over a sub is already lined up correctly. otherwise you would just be phasing out the starting point of the sound emission :)
You’re forgetting about the fact that low frequencies travel slower than high frequencies
All frequencies travel at the same speed Nick. Speed is a function of the medium, not of the frequency. There’s no reason to add delay if the tops are aligned with the subs. Only when your sub is behind (corner of a room for example).
@ I stand corrected but there’s much more to this - I’m gonna do a whole video on it because there’s an entire science behind it based on the speaker and most DJs don’t know. The sound engineers from RCF told me that setting the delay based on the height of the speaker is 100% necessary and it makes a huge difference. Coming soon!
@@NickSpinelli delay is required only when your head is a different distance from the tops/subs. So yes, if the tops are really high up (concert situations), they will take more time to reach the audience, and delaying the subs is necessary to give enough time to the tops to reach you. But for a typical wedding ballroom, the distance between the guests’ heads and the subs/tops rarely is significant enough to require any delays. Unless you hide your subs in the corners of the room.
The most prestigious speaker manufacturers (we’re talking about 100k’s hand crafted speakers) don’t even recommend delays in home installations, even though the subs are never aligned with the mains.
What matters is careful eq-ing. Wavelengths do weird stuff when phases add/cancel each other. But delays? Not something you need to worry about for weddings (unless again your subs are far away). As a matter of fact if you do care about these little details like you say in the video, you will have a far better sounding system with only one sub (or alternatively coupling your subs in front of your booth, like Barr does). Having two subs left and right creates valleys on your dancefloor. That has MUCH more impact on the quality of your sound, than a tiny 2ms delay.
@@NickSpinelli I am intrigued
Hmmm I thought column arrays had longer trow than traditional tops?
What speakers do you recommend for outside?
How does the ax 18 compare to 8003 or 8004 or 708?
8004 down to 30Hz. IMO ax18 = a 708 with display - and only down to 35Hz
I agree that column arrays don't throw that far. But I have a pair of Yorkville EXM mobile towers. They are battery powered so I can pretty much put them right on the dance floor or at least right beside it. Yes they are not as powerful as these RCF's but if I can reach the ppl on the dance floor easily then I'm good. Plus I don't book weddings larger than 150.00 ppl. But the RCF's sound great, my only con although I haven't heard them in the real world is the look. They are ugly. But great video Nick, killing it as always
Been in interested in the setup for a bit. Nice review. To me other other Con would be the mountain of the top.. I believe you need to buy that extra mounting and kinda of a hassle to have those mounted to the speaker just to get it on a pole. What your thought on the top mounting?
I got RCF SUB 15-AX last summer and I paired them with RCF ART 912-AX. This system is badass for almost any event I do,. The only place where subs are lacking is with bands and bass guitars, as the lowest notes start to drop off at maximum volumes. I will probably also get 18-AX subs as well and NXL 14-A, then I can use ART 912-AX as sidefills and outdoors too.
Traditional column arrays are unsuitable for most of the events, unless you party in your living room. Been telling that for years but still so few listen.
The new RCF AX series is just amasing and I won't be looking any further for at least 3-4 years with these bad boys :)
Some DJ-youtubers praising those column arrays really lowered their reputation for me while promoting them in various inapproriate places with very high confidence. You are one of the few dudes out there who knows what he is talking about!
Appreciate you! I couldn’t agree more.
sage af
or actually, in longer rooms, use ART's as tops and NXL-s as sidefills. They are nice discrete and do not shine out too much :) 15-AX is suitable for most people (except bands with bass guitars that need a lot of low end), as they both fit almost into any car and are more powerful than many 18 inch subs too.
Hey Nick,
this setup especially with the subs is meant for larger venues that have the space, right? Which setup do you use if you have hardly any space for your setup?
Greetings from Munich/Germany.
The 14-As look 🔥 When did RCF release the 18-AX? They look 🔥 as well.
I’m not buying anything he recommends. @ 6:45 you said you turned the sub at 0 then damn near 30 seconds later you said to turn the subs all the way up. Which is it bruh?
0 is technically all the way however the sub18ax has another 12db above 0 that you can go. So in this case he went to 0db.
Not a column array, they disperse the sound with off access speakers. Then you get better throw and no dead spots and less feed back.
I ‘m not so convinced of the RCF PRO series NX and NXL, however I use a couple of NX 45a for Mobile DJ applications (with 8004 Subs)
The good thing, they are quite affordable, compared to the RCF Touring Series TT.
But shouldn't we invest a little more money for having full satisfaction?
Sometimes I have the impression the NX 45-a sound a bit artificial or digital (comparing with my old Nexo PS-15 sounding much warmer and more natural).
Does it have a built in sub pole insert or do you have to add an additional part to pole mount it?
There’s a mount that you screw into the thread
That’s what a mixer is for a studio mixer… what DJ doesn’t have one
QSC KS118 VS RCF AX18 ? What do you think Nick?
Beautyful speaker, no need for column-arrays to look good. But be aware of the frequency range is 70 - 20,000 Hz and that is by -10 dB, I haven´t see the freq-curve for these yet but I expect a big drop of in the low end for 2x 6" woofers. So pairing with 15" sub probably is the best choice for a smooth x-over from top to sub.
The 2100W is PEAK, and what a pity that it is a screw-on-stand-adapter, who want to bother with and adapter each time 🤨 FBT Ventis 206A has ordinary stand adapter and frequency response: 70 Hz - 20 kHz (-6 dB) with 2x 6,5" woofers + 2-3dB more and at a lower price, but doesnt look as good as the RCF. Could be a hard choice between those 2 Italians.
Cool when I get money I’ll buy it
WOW! I need this!
Too bad this can't replace my Evolve30M. You had me all excited when you said that I could replace my Evolve. Not everyone is a DJ.
If I buy a pair of these and a pair of subs, do either come with poles or do I buy those separately? And do they come with all necessary powercon cables?
They definitely come with power cables, but the poles are extra I believe.
Could 2 of these manage without a sub if it only like 140 people max And not huge halls
Could these work as studio monitors without adding a sub ?
defintiley not with out a sub, frequency response is to 70hz, further more studio monitors are required to be extremely flat, most pa speakers are not all that flat, maybe with dsp processing you might be able to get it flat BUT, its for PA use NOT studio use
No, with or without a sub, they are not designed for studio use
Rcf Art 910 still better sound while costing 1/4 of this. Nice compact solution though
@@Les_Gõr i heard those. they are definitely nice. I might grab those as an upgrade to my 7 series
I disagree, I’ve heard both side by side. The 14 is much more powerful
@@NickSpinelli whats your thoughts compared to the 912 ax's? I was looking at the specs trying to find a large diff
Can u run with 1 sub and get same effect
speakers ok, but what subs are u using with them?
RCF 18AX
Can these be stacked like the Nxl24?
No
Where do you find the RCF recommended volume level settings? I'm running 945's and 8004's and want to make sure I'm getting the most out of them! (Already running through an external RCF 10 channel mixer)
I know right.. There is no zero settimg just minimum and maximum😂
Glad you made it out of boot camp
That's not a Column array, its a MTM Point Source.
Mid Tweeter Mid but it's a point source.
@@chadnliz2k11 don’t you come in here with your smarty pants language!
@NickSpinelli
What did I say that was bad?
I looked at the link just now, even RCF says point sources. Are the lying?
Just trying to be accurate man.
The term “Column Array” gets thrown around a lot. I feel that some of this is because of the look and design of top cabinets being more slender by use of dual smaller midbass drivers vs a wider, more traditional single 10-15” driver that would require a wider cabinet. Shop around though. With the right drivers, wave guides and dispersion characteristics, a “column array” can fill a room just as good as the traditional two driver cabinets. They just have a more appealing look because they’re not so wide and bulky. It’s the trend now. And I’m okay with that. I use this newer style of top cabinet myself because I think they look less intrusive. I’m sure these RCF’s sound pretty good.
@@chadnliz2k11 He was joking, lol.
@@clutch269 never said he wasn't
So basically it's a more affordable version of the RCF TT515-A nice so i would say the box has a slight edge on the high-end ...... P.S I dissagree with your opinion on The RCF EVOX 12 tho on a new years event we had 2 broadway singers come perform for about 100 guest sounded really good i played there instrumental tracks they sang over the music all i did was eq the Mackie and the night was a big hit.........thats just my take on the EVOX 12
Im sure you got a nice check from RCF!! Cant wait for the new Evolve video to come out!!
Thanks for the video. Sound quality seems amazing! For those looking for portability, a QSC K8.2 is 1/2 the price!
Yes but they sound harsh at high volumes. I used QSCs for over a decade and once I went RCF, I’ve never looked back.
Hi, did you ever tested subs 18-ax together with art945? If not can you do it for me? I have 2x art945 and thinking to buy 18-ax subs for make set, but not sure if they powerful enough. Thanks
Have you heard HDL 6A? Similar unit but powerful than NXL14 according to the SPL numbers like 3db difference! What do you think?
You might find this interesting. This is the closest I've found displaying the difference between speakers. I'm curious if anyone has a resource for how sound changes when wood vs plastic cabinets are used.
YTuber "Jim Lill" where does the tone come from a speaker cabinet?
Does it come in white like the sub?
Yes it does
Damn tophat though!!
What about the price?
wait, the knob that says volume is not volume?
Might as well just get the 24A and have more than you need/able to use for larger gigs and perfectly fine for a 100 person wedding
Yeah but those 24a aren't light
@@elliotchocano9374 54 pounds vs 28, true...but, my cart does all the work. Plus, if you're already transporting 70-100 pound subs...
@@elliotchocano9374 I just always only want to buy gear for the biggest gig. Don't like the concept of having multiple sets of speakers. But sure, having both the 14's and 24's would be chef's kiss optimal!
@@rjpimprov I'm with you. But let me tell you I'm so glad I kept my light evolve 50s. Had a few small gigs with only stairs and I would have been dead without them 😂 also fits in my car for mini events.
@@elliotchocano9374 Totally. I'm just too cheap to own multiple pairs. But it is nice to have options. I've had overkill before with 2 12's and 1 18.
Hk elements system.. everything you say plus more)
Not being funny but my ev evolve 50 sound good at high vol when I got singer or mc on the micphone over backing music I think got have system setup right on mixer
This isn’t a column array. You should research what a column array, a point source speaker, a 2 way cabinet, a 3 way cabinet, and line array speaker is. There are people who spend a lot of money on wrong equipment because they don’t understand what they are buying. I’m sure it sounds fantastic but it’s not a column array. This is literally a line array speaker on its side.
I dont think you should use delay that way. Can someone confirm?
True1 Powercon connectors are only pushed on the market because Neutrik is paying brands like RCF to switch to True1.
The True1 was introduced in 2011 so not new and Neutrik's original plan was to end the life cycle of the original Powercon in 2016.
Only problem for Neutrik was that China adopted the original Powercon and now China is selling several times more the amount of the original Powercon than Neutrik does.
Same is starting to happen to the True1 but that design still hasn't payed enough for Neutrik.
So in a crazy attempt to get more revenue on the True1, Neutrik is paying brands like RCF to adopt it for all their speaker models.
The funny thing is that with that they are also helping their Chinese competitors sell more True1 copies.
This is all first hand information from Neutrik.
U still have to use heavy as subs so wear is the portable part? U still gonna have to carry heavy subs😮
And was just about to but the J8
Ive been using the j8 to play LIVE for 5 years now!.. Can't complaint...
This is obiously better but three times the price...
Why do you always emphasize using an external mixer with RCF? Are there any experiences of failure you'd like to share?
No? It’s because using an external mixer is the best way to run sound - regardless of what speakers you use.
It's not about failure, it's first about gain,,bandwidth and more tuning of sound.
A emergency backup plan is secondary.
That's insurance, you pay and hope you never need it.