In 2010, High Wycombe's Martin Audio introduced the revolutionary MLA (Multi-cellular Loudspeaker Array), completely upending traditional line array thinking. Instead of aiming speakers and hoping geometry alone would solve the venue's acoustic problems, Martin introduced Cellular Optimization: using computational numerical optimization to steer and shape acoustic wavefronts dynamically.
Today, the Wavefront Precision (WPL, WPC, WPS, WPE) series brings that cellular control into scalable passive line array formats powered by multi-channel iKON amplifiers.
1. The Power of Cellular Optimization & "Hard Avoid"
In standard line arrays, sound inevitably spills onto the stage behind the boxes or bounces violently off hard reflective surfaces like venue back walls, stage ceilings, and residential areas near outdoor festival grounds.
How "Hard Avoid" Works in DISPLAY 3
System engineers draw the venue in Martin's DISPLAY 3 software, define the audience coverage plane, and designate specific zones (such as a reflective glass balcony or neighborhood boundary) as "Hard Avoid".
- The numerical optimization engine computes dedicated FIR phase and magnitude coefficients for every cellular driver group.
- Sound levels in the Hard Avoid zone drop by **20 dB to 30 dB**, while preserving punchy, uncompromised fidelity throughout the audience listening area.
2. Martin Audio System Catalog & Lineup
| System / Model | Acoustic Architecture | Max Output & Resolution | Recommended Deployment | Official Product Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Martin Audio WPL | Large-Format Flagship (2x 12" LF, 2x 6.5" MF, 3x 1" HF) | 145 dB SPL | 90° H Constant Directivity | Stadiums, Large Outdoor Festivals, Arenas | Martin Audio WPL Official Page ↗ |
| Martin Audio WPC | Mid-Format Workhorse (2x 10" LF, 2x 5" MF, 2x 0.7" HF) | 140 dB SPL | 100° H | Arenas, Theatres, Medium Festivals | Martin Audio WPC Official Page ↗ |
| Martin Audio WPS | Compact Line Array (2x 8" LF, 4x 4" MF, 4x 1" HF) | 135 dB SPL | 100° H | Concert Theatres, Corporate, Live Clubs | Martin Audio WPS Official Page ↗ |
| Martin Audio WPE | Ultra-Compact Scalable Array (2x 6.5" LF, 1x 1" HF) | 130 dB SPL | 100° H | Small Theatres, Houses of Worship | Martin Audio WPE Official Page ↗ |
| Martin Audio SXH218 | Hybrid Horn/Reflex Subwoofer (2x 18" Long-Excursion) | 148 dB Peak | Down to 32 Hz | Touring Sub-Bass Extension | Martin Audio SXH218 Official Page ↗ |
3. Amplification & Processing: The iKON Ecosystem
- iKON iK42: 4-channel Class-D power amplifier delivering **4x 5,000 W into 2 ohms**, with Dante networking and 96 kHz DSP.
- iKON iK81: 8-channel high-density touring amplifier (8x 1,250 W into 4 ohms), ideal for multi-cellular 1-box-per-channel optimization on WPS and WPC hangs.
- VU-NET & DISPLAY 3: Centralized real-time monitoring and prediction platform.
(Check out our interactive Pink Noise & Sine Sweep Generator to verify line array phase alignment on site).
