Worship Facility Gear Report: Column Array Speakers

Column array systems have become increasingly popular due to their sleek design, ease of setup, and crisp sound. However, with so many options in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. When it comes to selecting column array speakers for your House of Worship, several key factors play a pivotal role in ensuring you get the best fit for your needs.

• Sound quality. Look for speakers that deliver clarity, balance, and richness in sound. High fidelity and minimal distortion are essential for a superior auditory experience.
• Power handling and output capabilities. The speaker system should be powerful enough to cover your venue size without compromising sound quality. Understand the RMS and peak power ratings to match your requirements.
• Size and scalability. The speakers should be appropriately sized for your space and audience. Scalability is crucial for adjusting to different event sizes or venue types.
• Ease of installation and setup. User-friendly design, lightweight construction, and versatility in mounting options can significantly impact the practicality of the speaker system.

1. RCF Evox 12

The RCF EVOX 12 PA system offers a particularly profound and dynamic reproduction at high levels due to the built-in 1400W power amplifier. The top section has eight high performance neodymium 4″ full-range transducers with a phase plug. As a result, the EVOX 12 has a significantly increased low-mid playback at a constant level with a wide dispersion for the highs. The 15″ subwoofer delivers powerful bass sound to reinforce the kick drum of a live band. Despite high performance, the enclosure is very compact, and thanks to integrated wheels and extendable handle, very easy to transport.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Brand: RCF
• Speaker Max. Output Power: 1400 Watt
• SPL: 130 dB max
• Dimensions: 36″H x 10″W x 7″D
• Item Weight: 24 lb
• Speaker Size: 8 x 4″ neodymium full-range woofer
• Frequency Response: 40 Hz 20 kHz
• Sensitivity:  -2 dBu/+4 dBu

REASONS TO BUY

• High-Quality Sound
• Durable Construction
• Innovative DSP processing

REASONS TO AVOID

• None

2. Renkus-Heinz UBX16

The UBX series from Renkus-Heinz delivers the precise coverage, high intelligibility, and renowned sound quality of their flagship Iconyx loudspeakers into the realm of passive column arrays. New for the UBX Series is Passive UniBeam TechnologyTM which addresses each transducer with specially designed all-pass filter networks, gain shading, and additional frequency filtering in order to generate an asymmetrical vertical dispersion with constant directivity, delivering consistent front-to-back coverage with minimal side lobe artifacts. The UBX Series utilizes state of the art neodymium 3” Full-Range drivers which allow for an incredibly small footprint. The narrow cabinet, combined with Passive UniBeam coverage, allows for plumb surface mounting via the included wall mount bracket, resulting in the least possible architectural intrusion. All models in the UBX Series are weather resistant (IP64) out of the box with the included gland/conduit knock-out input cover, and feature high-quality audio transformers for 70V/100V constant voltage operation in large, distributed audio systems.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Brand: Renkus-Heinz
• Speaker Max. Output Power: 100 W (100 Hr, per EN54-24), 225 W (AES), 450 W (PGM), 900 W (PEAK)
• Impedance: 4 Ohms
• Dimensions: 4-3/8″ W x 56-7/8″H x 4-3/4″D
• Item Weight: 29.6 lbs
• Speaker Size: 3 inches
• Frequency Response: 135 Hz to 15 kHz (- 3 dB) / 110 Hz to 18 kHz (-10 dB)
• Sensitivity: 95 dB (1w/1m) / 79 dB (4 m, per EN54-24)

REASONS TO BUY

• Compact Line Array Design
• High-Quality Sound
• Durable Construction

REASONS TO AVOID

• None

3. Atlas IED ALA15TAW

The EN54-24 certified ALA20TAW column line array loudspeaker delivers maximum pattern control performance in a minimum footprint and excels in applications that require excellent speech intelligibility. The ALA20TAW’s transducer configuration combines twenty tight packed 3″ (76mm) full range drivers and six 22mm high frequency tweeters in an extruded aluminum housing to offer both durability and optimum sound reproduction. The lightweight and easy to install enclosure has contemporary aesthetics that are a compliment to any environment. The back of the enclosure incorporates vertical channels that accept the included wall mount allowing the installer to slide the mount to the location that provides the desired vertical tilt. An optional pole mount bracket enables the array to be used in portable applications coupled with a portable A-Line subwoofer system.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Brand: Atlas IED
• Speaker Max. Output Power: 1000 Watts
• Impedance: 60W (163 Ohm) RNP, 30W (326 Ohm), 15W (653 Ohm) and Low Impedance (6Ω)
• Dimensions: 65.75″H x 5.43″D x 4.61″W
• Item Weight: 48.00 lbs
• Speaker Size: 3″
• Frequency Response: 110Hz – 20kHz (+/-5dB)
• Sensitivity: 97dB (1W/1m) / (EN54-24) 82dB (1W/4m)

REASONS TO BUY

• Compact Line Array Design
• High-Quality Sound
• Durable Construction

REASONS TO AVOID

• None

4. Bose Professional MSA12X 

From vast auditoriums to lecture halls, close-quarters conference rooms, and houses of worship, it’s imperative to have reliable, articulate output that reaches the right ears. With Bose Professional’s Panaray MSA12X beam-steering loudspeaker, you can rest assured you’re given total control over 600 watts of wide-reaching, laser-focused audio. With 12 2.25-inch transducers, each 50-watt speaker operates within a robust range of 58Hz to 18kHz, utilizing Bose’s proprietary Articulated Array configuration to produce up to 160° of clear coverage. Onboard DSP is coupled with multiple built-in algorithms for beam-steering control, further capable of being customized and optimized to fit your space, tailoring variables like coverage range, SPL, and more. Flexible connectivity options include a line-level analog input alongside Dante connectivity; plus, independent EQ control can be applied to two separate beams for each array, ensuring any voice is heard where it’s needed. 

SPECIFICATIONS

• Brand: Bose
• Speaker Max. Output Power: 12 x 50W (600W)
• Impedence: 8 Ω
• Dimensions: 38.74″H x 4.16″W x 8.12″D
• Item Weight: 32lbs.
• Speaker Size: 2.25″
• Frequency Response: 75 Hz – 13 kHz
• Sensitivity: (SPL / 1 W @ 1 m) 87 dB SPL

REASONS TO BUY

• 160° Horizontal Coverage
• Onboard DSP, 12 x 50W Amplifiers
• Dante Interface, Line-Level Analog Input

REASONS TO AVOID

• None

5. LD Systems Maui 44 G2 

The Maui 44 G2 W Column Speaker Array and Subwoofer System supplies performers with consistent and impactful sound in a sleek and portable form factor. The system consists of the Maui 44 G2 W Powered Subwoofer and the Maui 44 G2 W Column Speaker Array operating at 1,500 watts RMS. A 15-inch driver helps the subwoofer deliver chest-thumping lows. The column array features 12 full-range speakers and four 1-inch tweeters with waveguides. Together, the 16 column speakers deliver a clean and vibrant sound with an astounding 120° of horizontal coverage. Better still, the Maui 44 G2 W system collapses into three pieces for compact storage when not in use. The Maui 44 G2 W Column Speaker Array and Subwoofer System will supply clean, high-output sound in any environment. 

SPECIFICATIONS

• Brand: LD Systems
• Speaker Max. Output Power: 3000W peak / 132 dB peak SPL / 37 Hz to 20 kHz
• Impedance: 8 Ω
• Dimensions: 63.81″H x 4.05″W x 5.31″D
• Item Weight: 24.6lbs
• Speaker Size: 12 x 3.5″ MF, 4 x 0.5″ HF
• Frequency Response: 37 – 20000 Hz
• Sensitivity: Max. SPL (Peak) 132 dB

REASONS TO BUY

• Automatic setup detection
• DynX DSP technology for distortion-free sound at maximum volume
• Cardioid column for controlled low- and mid-range frequency dispersion and cardioid subwoofer application

REASONS TO AVOID

• Price Point
• Requires Powered Sub

6. JBL Professional CBT 50LA-1-WH

The JBL Professional CBT 50LA-1-WH excels in delivering clear and consistent sound, crucial for both speeches and musical performances in house of worship. The speaker’s Constant Beamwidth Technology impressed me with its ability to maintain sound clarity across different volumes, ensuring every word and note is heard in detail. This is complemented by the CBT 50LA-1-WH’s sleek design, which fits unobtrusively into various spaces without compromising on acoustic power. Installation simplicity is a standout feature, making the speaker easy to set up and adjust in fast-paced educational environments. This ease of use, along with the speaker’s versatile voicing options, makes it a highly adaptable choice for a range of events.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Brand: JBL
• Speaker Max. Output Power: 150 Watts
• Impedance: 8 Megaohms
• Dimensions: 6.0″D x 3.9″W x 20.8″H
• Item Weight: 15.8 Pounds
• Speaker Size: 2 Inches
• Frequency Response: 80 Hz – 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: 93 dB

REASONS TO BUY

• Included Wall Mount
• SonicGuard Overload Protection
• Constant Beamwidth Technology

REASONS TO AVOID

• Price Point

7. Yamaha StagePas 1K mkII

This Yahama portable column PA system features a 10-speaker line array with impressively wide dispersion. It includes a bevy of state-of-the-art features, including a built-in 5-channel mixer, 1-knob EQs, high-quality SPX reverb, and Bluetooth functionality. Need a high-performance stereo system? No problem. Add a DXL1K powered column PA speaker, and you’ll be ready to go. You also get a rugged yet lightweight enclosure. Anyone in need of a top-quality all-in-one PA will find everything they’re looking for in the Yamaha StagePas 1K mkII.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Brand: Yamaha
• Speaker Max. Output Power: 1100watts
• Impedance: 8 Ω
• Dimensions: 2.63″ Wx 22.9″H x 3.4″D
• Item Weight: 4lbs
• Speaker Size: 1.5″
• Frequency Response: 37 Hz – 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: 125 dB SPL

REASONS TO BUY

• Bluetooth connectivity enables you to stream stereo audio from your smart device
• 1,100W Class D power amplifier delivers impressive, high-SPL (125dB) performance
• High-resolution SPX digital reverb adds a pro-level sheen to your performance

REASONS TO AVOID

• Requires Powered Sub

8. JBL Professional PRX ONE

The JBL PRX ONE all-in-one powered column PA features an acoustically optimized column array featuring a 7-channel digital mixer, a full suite of professional DSP, class-leading audio connectivity, Bluetooth functionality and JBL Pro Connect universal app control. PRX ONE delivers a stunning 130db max SPL, with consistent front-to-back throw, thanks to its custom-engineered 12-tweeter column array featuring JBL AIM acoustic technology, 12-inch bass-reflex woofer and built-in 2,000-watt (peak) amplifier. Dial in great sound fast, with fewer pieces of gear, using PRX ONE’s full suite of professional Lexicon and dbx effects including reverb, delay, compression and dbx DriveRack technology featuring AFS Pro Automatic Feedback Suppression.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Brand: JBL
• Speaker Max. Output Power: 2000 Watts
• Impedance: 4kΩ balanced Combo4kΩ, 2MΩ balanced Hi-Z Jack, 10kΩ 3.5mm single ended 2 channel
• Dimensions: 18.9″D x 25.4″W x 33.4″H
• Item Weight: 55 Pounds
• Speaker Size: 33.4 Inches
• Frequency Response: 20 – 35Hz
• Sensitivity: 93 dB

REASONS TO BUY

• Features and Versatility
• Power and Volume
• On-Board Mixer/Effects

Reason To Avoid

• Requires Powered Sub

9. Bose L1 Pro8

This Bose line array speaker brings unparalleled sound quality in a sleek package, perfect for enhancing the ambiance of cafes and boutiques. The sound coverage is expansive, spreading crystal-clear audio evenly across the room. Its compact design effortlessly fits into any decor, adding to the aesthetic without overwhelming the space. What’s truly impressive is the depth of bass this system produces, rivaling larger setups, yet in a much more space-efficient form. Portability is another standout feature, making it easy to transport and set up, a crucial aspect for dynamic spaces. With intuitive controls, including Bluetooth streaming and app integration, customizing the sound to fit the specific needs of any event is effortless. The Bose L1 Pro8 is not just a speaker; it’s a key element in creating a memorable atmosphere in small spaces.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Brand: Bose
• Speaker Max. Output Power:
• Impedance:
• Dimensions: 78.94″D x 17.32″W x 38.92″H
• Item Weight:
• Speaker Size:
• Frequency Response: 45 Hz -16 kHz
• Sensitivity:

REASONS TO BUY

• Bluetooth Connectivity
• Versatile Use
• Ease of Setup

REASONS TO AVOID

• Requires Powered Sub

10. Yamaha VXL1B-16

This Yamaha array speaker impresses with its blend of aesthetic design and robust sound performance. The speaker’s 16 x 1.5″ drivers deliver crystal-clear audio, making it perfect for a variety of home entertainment needs, from music to movies. Its compact form factor, one of the key features of small line array speakers, allows it to integrate seamlessly into any home setting, complementing the decor while providing immersive sound. The VXL1B-16P’s sound quality stands out, particularly in its delivery of clear vocals and balanced sound across different frequencies. The option to mount it on the wall and the possibility of painting the enclosure for aesthetic alignment make it a versatile and visually appealing addition to any room. Yamaha’s inclusion of Dante PoE support in this line array speaker for home simplifies connectivity, allowing easy integration into home networks, which enhances its appeal for those seeking a high-quality audio experience without complex setup requirements.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Brand: Yamaha
• Speaker Max. Output Power: 15 Watts
• Impedance: 12 Ohm
• Dimensions: 4.39″D x 2.13″W x 33.31″H
• Item Weight: 7.5 Pounds
• Speaker Size: 1.5 inches
• Frequency Response: 81Hz – 20kHz
• Sensitivity: 91 dB

REASONS TO BUY

• Slim and Elegant Design
• High-Quality Sound
• Easy Integration

REASONS TO AVOID

• Requires Powered Sub

11. Biamp ENT-FR 3-Way Column Line Array Speaker System

ENTASYS FR offers superior performance, high output and high power handling capability in architecturally appealing enclosures. The scalable design supports configurations of loudspeakers from singles to floor-to-ceiling arrays of any length, meeting the acoustical design needs of nearly any application. The ENTASYS FR high-performance three-way column line source loudspeaker system is designed for permanent installation in applications such as auditoria, conference centers, and houses of worship.

ENTASYS is most beneficial in medium to large highly reverberant spaces. As a modular true line source, an array of nearly any length can be assembled. Longer arrays minimize sound reflections, reducing reverberation and increasing speech intelligibility. The ENTASYS FR and LF are equally suited for indoor and outdoor direct exposure applications.

The system is designed to be modular, allowing the installer to place the center of the vertical system lobe symmetrically or asymmetrically about the vertical axis of the column array. Multiple ENTASYS FR columns may be used to create single lobe, focused coverage. Or, by implementing tall arrays using both FR and LF columns, multiple vertical lobes can be created at independent points on the column – something previously only possible using powered, steered arrays. A wide range of mounting brackets is available to fit nearly every installation.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Brand: Biamp
• Speaker Max. Output Power: 600W RMS, 1500W PGM
• Impedance: 12 Ohms
• Dimensions: 7.36″D x 5.5″W x 44.5″H
• Item Weight: 38.5 lbs
• Speaker Size: LF: Six (6) 3.5″ neodymium, MF: Eighteen (18) 2.35″, HF: Forty-two (42) 1″ 
• Frequency Response: 43Hz-20khz (±3 db)
• Sensitivity: Curved (12°V): 93 dB / Straight (6°V): 95 dB

REASONS TO BUY

• Slim and Elegant Design
• High-Quality Sound
• Easy Integration

REASONS TO AVOID

• Requires powered subwoofer

12. Electro-Voice Evolve 50M Powered Column Speaker

The Electro-Voice EVOLVE 50 Portable PA Column Array is part of the EVOLVE 50 portable PA system, which consists of a powered subwoofer, magnetic speaker pole, and the column array. The column array uses eight 3.5″ neodymium drivers with a custom-designed waveguide, which provides consistent (120°) horizontal coverage. The column speaker array is powered by the subwoofer’s integrated 1000W amplifier, which delivers 500W to the column array.

System setup is simple and fast. Slide the magnetically locking mounting pole into the appropriate hole on top of the subwoofer, then place the column speaker array on the pole. You don’t have to run cables between the sub and speaker array; audio connectivity between them is made via internal cabling in the mounting pole. The column array ships with the sub pole and a carrying case.

• Ultra-wide 120° horizontal coverage via custom-designed waveguides and array-formed 40° asymmetrical vertical coverage means all acoustical energy is directed towards both sitting and standing audiences
• Ideal for portable applications. Lightweight and intuitive assembly via the magnet assisted sub pole make a quality performance easier than ever

SPECIFICATIONS

• Brand: Electro-Voice
• Speaker Max. Output Power: 1000W
• Impedance: 12 Ohms
• Dimensions: 4″”D x 6.9″W x 32.5″H
• Item Weight: 38.5 lbs
• Speaker Size: 1 x 12″ LF, 8 x 3.5″ HF
• Frequency Response: 43Hz-20kHz
• Sensitivity: Curved (12°V): 93 dB / Straight (6°V): 95 dB

REASONS TO BUY

• Slim and Elegant Design
• High-Quality Sound
• Easy Integration

REASONS TO AVOID

• Requires a amplifer