PreSonus CDL12P Constant Directivity Loudspeakers Owner’s Manual
- June 15, 2024
- PreSonus
Table of Contents
PreSonus CDL12P Constant Directivity Loudspeakers
Product Information
Specifications
The CDL-series loudspeakers employ a patent-pending Constant Directivity design that provides consistent SPL and frequency response coverage.
Model: CDL12P / CDL10P
FAQ
- Q: What is included in the box?
- A: Please refer to section 1.2 of the user manual for information on what is included in the box.
- Q: Are rigging accessories included with the product?
- A: No, rigging accessories are sold separately. Please refer to section 1.3 of the user manual for more information.
Overview
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing a CDL-series loudspeaker. CDL full-range speakers
employ a patent-pending Constant Directivity design that provides consistent
SPL and frequency response coverage.
CDL-series loudspeakers utiliize a 15˚constant curvature vertical array of
2-inch high-frequency drivers centered in front of a single, larger low-
frequency driver. This allows them to radiate sound in a focused directional
pattern with up to 90˚ of vertical coverage when using 6 CDL loudspeakers in
an array. The result is a true hybrid of point-source and line-array
technology that combines the benefits of each into the best listening
experience possible.
We encourage you to register your CDL loudspeaker(s) at My.PreSonus.com and to contact us through the MyPreSonus support portal with any questions or comments regarding this product. PreSonus Audio Electronics is committed to constant product improvement and we highly value your feedback. We appreciate the support you have shown us through the purchase of this product.
What is in the Box
In addition to this manual, your CDL loudspeaker package contains the following:
- (1) CDL 12P or CDL 10P Loudspeaker
- (1) AC locking 3 conductor14AWG cord
- PreSonus Health and Safety Guide
Rigging Accessories (Sold Separately)
- CDL12P or CDL10P Rigging Grid
- CDL Rigging Extension Bar
- CDL12P or CDL10P Rigging Sling
Hookup
Rear-Panel Connections and Controls
- Line Input. This is a balanced XLR connection for line-level input. Use the Line input to connect the loudspeaker to a StudioLive digital mixer or another mixing console, either directly or through the Line out connector on another CDL loudspeaker.
- Direct Out. This is the Direct Out for the line input. Use this to connect to another CDL loudspeakers.
- Master Vol. This knob determines the master output level (volume) of the CDL subwoofer power amplifier. It has no effect on the signal level from the direct output. Push this control to access all the DSP functions in your CDL loudspeaker.
- Power User Tip: A subwoofer can significantly change the frequency response of a full-range system. A 3-way system with a subwoofer will be 6 to 18 dB hotter below 80 to 100 Hz. Set the appropriate level for your subwoofer before adjusting your system EQ.
Onboard Performance Monitoring
Master Performance Monitoring. These 4 LEDs display the performance status of the internal amplifier:
- SIG. This LED illuminates when the input signal exceeds -50 dB.
- -3 dB. When this LED illuminates, the input signal has exceeded -3 dB.
- LIM. The protection limiter has been engaged when this indicator illuminates.
- CLIP. The clip LED illuminates when the input signal has exceeded 0.5 dBFS, and the ADC is clipping, or when the amplifier exceeds the maximum upper limit (load dependent).
Power User Tip
- Never run your input levels higher than the channel inputs can handle.
- If you overdrive the A/D converters, it will cause digital distortion (digital clipping), which sounds terrible.
Onboard Tuning Features
The CDL loudspeaker make it easy to customize the loudspeaker’s performance for your application. To access the controls, simply press the Master level encoder and turn it to scroll through the menu options. Press the encoder again to select a parameter and adjust it. Press again to continue scrolling.
- Mode. This selects a preset optimized for configurations. Select the configuration preset for the number of CDL loudspeakers arrayed together (1 box to 6 boxes).
- HPF. Engages/disengages the onboard 90 Hz High Pass Filter.
- Sub Mode. Adjusts the crossover frequency and the delay for the companion
- PreSonus subwoofer being used (CDL Sub18, CDL18s, ULT18, or AIR18s).
- When using the CDL loudspeaker without a subwoofers, select “Off.”
- Brightness. Adjusts the brightness of the display.
- Contrast. Adjusts the contrast of the display.
- System Reset. Resets the system settings to factory default.
- System Info. Opens the System Information screen.
- Exit. Select to return to the Level screen. You will be given the option to save any changes you’ve made to the DSP settings before exiting.
Power
- AC Line Connection. CDL loudspeakers have voltage ranges of 100-120VAC, or 220-240VAC, 50-60Hz. Each loudspeaker is supplied with a locking 3-conductor AC power cord appropriate for the country of sale.
- WARNING: Do not remove the center grounding prong or use a ground-lift adapter, as this could result in electric shock.
- WARNING: Connect the power cord to the AC In connection on the amplifier before connecting the IEC connection to the AC mains power source.
- Power Thru. CDL loudspeakers provide loop-thru power. Using locking 3 conductor Loop-thru cables, you can power up to six CDL loudspeakers.
- Loop-thru cable connectors are color coded as follows:
- Blue. AC In.
- White. AC Out.
- Power Switch. This is the On/Off switch.
- Power User Tip: If connecting multiple loudspeakers to the same electrical circuit, make sure that adequate line current is available. Maximum current draw for each CDL loudspeaker is 5.45 Amps.
- WARNING: The power switch does not cut AC mains power from the loop-thru cables. If AC mains power is connected to one CDL loudspeaker, electrical power will be present on all connected loop-thru cables.
Connecting Loop-Thru Power
- Begin by inserting the white connector on the loop-thru cable into the white AC Out connection on the power amplifier.
- Once the cable is fully seated, twist the connector clockwise to lock it into place.
- Insert the blue connector into the blue AC In connection on the other CDL power amplifier.
- Once the cable is fully seated, twist the connector clockwise to lock it into place.
Repeat Steps 1-4 for the other loudspeakers you’d like to power.
Application and Deployment
CDL loudspeakers can be configured as an individual point-source loudspeaker or in a vertical array with other CDL loudspeakers of the same model. Integrated rigging makes easy and secure box-to-box deployment. When suspending two or more arrayed loudspeakers, PreSonus requires the CDL Rigging Grid engineered for your loudspeaker model. This separately sold rigging grid allows the suspension up to (6) CDL loudspeakers. For all supported configurations, see the chart in Section3.6.
Up to two CDL loudspeakers may be used on a tripod or on a sub pole over a CDL subwoofer. A single CDL loudspeaker may also be mounted atop a ULT18, or AIR18 subwoofer (See Section 3.7 for restrictions and guidelines). The CDL loudspeakers are equipped with a two-position pole-mount to provide more flexible coverage when pole-mounted (0˚ or 7.5˚ downward).
IMPORTANT: In all cases, when rigging loudspeakers together, attach the bottommost unit to the loudspeaker directly above it, moving up the grid to the topmost unit, ending with the model specific Rigging Grid.
WARNING
- The CD L12P weighs 63 lbs. (28.6 kg). The CDL 10P weighs 55.1 lbs (25 kg) .Use proper lifting techniques to avoid serious injury. Please see Section 2.6 for Maximum Suspended Load.
- When assembling or disassembling arrayed loudspeakers, make sure that all components are properly supported throughout the entire process to avoid damage or injury.
- To ensure secure latching, verify that the loudspeakers are properly aligned for box-to-box vertical arraying. If loudspeakers are not properly aligned, physical damage, and personal injury may occur. The top of each loudspeaker should be parallel to the bottom of the unit above it. For suspension, the topmost unit must be securely attached to the CDL12P or CDL10P Rigging Grid.
Getting Started
Before you begin, here are a few general rules of thumb:
- Always make sure your loudspeakers are powered off when making connections.
- Do not allow your inputs to clip. Watch the Clip LED on the back of your loudspeaker. When this LED illuminates, it indicates that the analogto- digital converters are in danger of being overdriven. Overdriving the converters causes digital distortion, which sounds terrible.
Your PA and attached equipment should be powered on in the following order:
- Sound sources (keyboards, D.I. boxes, etc.) connected to your mixer
- Mixer
- CDL Loudspeakers
When it’s time to power down, your system should be turned off in the reverse order.
Cooling
CDL loudspeakers are internally-powered. As such, they utilize a power amplifier that produces heat. Allow a minimum of 6” (152.4 mm) clearance at the rear of the enclosure for cooling. Do not restrict airflow to the rear of the speaker enclosure.
CAUTION
- To avoid overheating, do not install enclosures with the amplifier panels exposed to direct sunlight. This can heat the amplifier module and reduce performance. Install sunshades to avoid direct exposure. The maximum ambient temperature for full performance should not exceed 104˚ F (40˚ C).
- Do not install enclosures where they will be exposed to rain or other moisture. CDL loudspeakers are not weatherproof. Protection from the elements must be provided in outdoor installations.
Important Safety Instructions
WARNING: Failure to observe the following safety precautions may result in severe injury or death. Installations such as described in this guide should only be attempted by a trained professional.
- Read these instructions.
- Keep these instructions.
- Heed all warnings.
- Follow all instructions.
- Before installing or suspending any CDL loudspeaker, inspect all hardware, the enclosure, and associated equipment for damage. Missing, corroded, or deformed components, or components without correct load ratings, could significantly reduce the strength of the installation or placement and should immediately be repaired or replaced.
- Always make sure that the structure the loudspeaker is to be suspended from has been approved by the building or structural engineer and will support the weight of all the components of the speaker system including speakers, speaker cable, wire rope, etc.
- Consult a licensed professional structural engineer regarding physical equipment installation.
- Do not suspend loudspeakers directly over people.
- Use only hardware that is rated for the load conditions of the installation and that allows for a possible short-term, unexpected overload. Never exceed the rating of the hardware or equipment.
- PreSonus strongly recommends that the system be inspected at least once a year and logged. If any sign of weakness or damage is detected, remedial action should be taken immediately.
- All installation crew members must be trained for loudspeaker rigging and mounting.
- Make sure that all relevant health and safety regulations are known, are followed by the installation crew, and are in compliance with applicable local laws. Local government offices can help with this information.
- Suspended installations must be completed or supervised by a certified rigger.
- The system should be designed so that it is a static suspension. There should be no dynamic or shock loading.
- Personal protective equipment (hard hats, steel-toed footwear, safety glasses, etc.) should be worn at all times by the installation crew.
- If called for in the design, make sure all installation personnel are trained to work at height and have certifications for scissor lifts, theatrical hoists, etc.
- Make sure all lifting equipment (slings, span-sets, deck chain, scaffolding, etc.) is in good working order. Thoroughly inspect all components prior to use.
- Inspect all the components associated with the project for damage before assembly. Any parts with damage or suspected damage should not be used. Contact the component manufacturer for replacement parts if necessary.
- Keep a tidy workplace. Do not leave tools, rigging items, etc., on top of loudspeakers during installation. Loose items can fall and cause injury.
- Never leave the system unattended during the installation process. Make sure that the workspace is isolated from public access. No one should be allowed to pass beneath the loudspeakers during installation.
- Do not suspend any other components or loudspeakers from PreSonus CDL loudspeakers other than the supported configurations described in this manual.
- If secondary steel safeties are required, they should be installed once the entire system is at operating height and before public access is allowed.
Rigging Instructions
CDL loudspeakers feature integrated rigging pins. The integrated rigging pins function the same whether you are attaching CDL or the CDL Rigging Grid.
- Rotate the pin to the forward 90˚.
- Press the release button to unlock the pin.
- Pull out the pin.
- Slide the rigging clasp up to attach to the speaker above.
- Insert the pin into the upper hole of the rigging clasp until it locks, and rotate it up to lock the handle in place.
CDL Rigging Extension Bar Installation Instructions
The CDL Rigging Extension Bar is an optional accessory for the Rigging Grid that provides upward or downward tilt control for any suspended installation that requires it.
IMPORTANT: Use only the rigging grid labeled for your model of CDL loudspeakers (CDL12P or CDL10P).
- Align the CDL Rigging Extension Bar with the center support of the CDL Rigging Grid. For downward tilt, the bar should be mounted at the rear of the loudspeaker array. For upward tilt, the bar should be mounted at the front of the array. The illustrations in this section show the downward tilt configuration only.
- Insert the first clevis pin into the outermost through-hole.
- Lock the clevis pin in place using a cotter pin.
- Insert the second clevis pin into the inner through-hole.
- Insert a cotter pin into second clevis pin to lock it into place.
Suspending the CDL Array
WARNING: Consult a professional mechanical or structural engineer, licensed in the jurisdiction of the sound system installation, to review, verify, and approve all attachments to the building or structure. Employ the services of a certified, professional rigger for hoisting, positioning, and rigging the equipment to the supporting structure. Improper suspension can lead to serious damage, injury, or death.
WARNING: Review all safety instructions in Section 3.3.
- The table below shows the maximum suspended loudspeaker load configurations.
- Deploying loudspeakers that exceed the supported configurations below can lead to serious damage, injury, or death. PreSonus has tested the configurations below for safety. Please note that the structure from which you are suspending any CDL loudspeaker array must be able to support that total weight.
DO NOT SUSPEND LOUDSPEAKERS DIRECTLY ABOVE THE AUDIENCE
Supported Suspended Loudspeaker Configurations
Maximum Number of CDL12P Loudspeakers| 2| 3| 4| 5| 6
Maximum Number of CDL10P Loudspeakers| 2| 3| 4| 5| 6
Individual Component Weight
Individual Component Weight
CDL12P| CDL12P Rigging Grid| CDL Rigging Grid Extension Bar
63 lbs (28.6 kg)| 24 lbs (10.9 kg)| ****
5.8 lbs (2.6 kg)
CDL10P| CDL10P Rigging Grid
46.8 lbs (21.2 kg)| 20.6 lbs (9.3 kg)
WARNING: All PreSonus CDL rigging and rigging accessories are rated for a 10:1 load. Structural suspension supports must also be rated for a 10:1 load.
Supported Configurations
Rigging a CDL Loudspeaker to Another CDL Loudspeaker
IMPORTANT
- CDL12P loudspeakers cannot be arrayed with CDL10P loudspeakers.
- All CDL-series loudspeakers in a single rigged array must be of the same model.
Rigging a CDL Loudspeaker to a CDL Rigging Grid
IMPORTANT
- Use only the rigging grid labeled for your model of CDL loudspeakers (CDL12P or CDL10P).
Using the CDL Rigging Sling with the CDL Rigging Grid
WARNING: Use only the rigging sling labeled for your model of CDL loudspeakers (CDL12P or CDL10P). The CDL Rigging Sling is required on all installations that include 4 or more CDL loudspeakers in a vertical array. Additionally, in installations using the CDL Rigging Extension Bar deployed with an upward or downward tilt of 12˚ or greater, the CDL Rigging Sling must be utilized. All of the CDL loudspeakers in the sling must be the same model, and use the Rigging Grid specified for that model.
Pole Mounting Options
You can mount up to two CDL loudspeakers on a loudspeaker pole either using a tripod stand that supports the total weight up to 130 lbs / 58.9 kg or atop a CDL Subwoofer. A single CDL loudspeaker may also be mounted atop a ULT18, or AIR18. When mounting atop a supported PreSonus subwoofer, utilize a sub pole that supports the total weight of the CDL full-range loudspeaker(s). If mounting atop a subwoofer, the elevation height cannot exceed the following guidelines:
Maximum Sub Pole Height
(1) CDL12P or CDL 10P +| (2) CDL12P or CDL 10P +| (1) CDL12P or CDL 10P +
(1) CDL Sub18, CDL 18s, ULT18,| (1) CDL Sub18 or CDL18s| (2) CDL18s
or AIR18s| |
40”| 33.5”| 17”
- Do not attempt to pole mount loudspeakers atop ground-stacked CDL Sub18s.
Important Pole Mounting Safety Instructions
- Always check the stand or pole specification to verify that it is designed to support the weight of the CDL loudspeaker(s).
- Always observe all safety precautions specified by any 3rd party manufacturer of devices used with the CDL loudspeakers.
- Always verify that the stand or subwoofer and subwoofer pole is resting on a level, flat, and stable surface.
- Tripod legs should be fully extended for maximum stability and positioned in a low-traffic area so that the legs do not create a tripping hazard.
- Route cables so that no one will trip over them as this could topple the speaker and cause serious injury, damage, or death.
- Stands, poles, and associated hardware should be inspected prior to each use. Do not use equipment with worn, damaged, or missing parts.
- For some applications, it may be necessary to place additional weights, such as sandbags, on the base of the stand to for maximum stability.
- Do not attach banners to the stand as these could function like a sail to topple the system, causing serious injury, damage or death.
Pole Mounting Instructions
- Select the pole socket angle for your application (0˚ or 7.5˚).
- Note: When mounting (2) CDL loudspeakers, the 7.5˚ tilt mount must be utilized.
- Carefully place one CDL loudspeaker on the loudspeaker pole by inserting the pole completely into the pole socket.
- If mounting (2) CDL loudspeakers on one pole, place the lower loudspeaker on the pole first, then rig the top one to it following the instructions in Section 3.7.1.
Important: Use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury.
It is highly recommended that you team lift CDL loudspeakers onto their pole
mount for maximum safety and to avoid injury.
The following pole mounting options are supported:
-
(1) CDL loudspeaker on Tripod Stand
-
(2) CDL loudspeaker on Tripod Stand
-
WARNING: The (2) CDL loudspeakers must be rigged to one another.
See Section 3.7.1 for instructions.- (1) CDL loudspeaker atop either (1) CDL Sub18, (1) CDL18s, (1) ULT18, or (1) AIR18s
-
WARNING: Maximum pole height from the top of the CDL Sub18 or CDL18s to the bottom of the CDL loudspeaker cannot exceed 40”. PreSonus recommends the K&M 21339.000.55 Crank Stand.
- (1) CDL loudspeaker atop (2) CDL18s
-
WARNING: Other stacked subwoofer configurations are not supported.
- Maximum pole height from the top of the upper CDL Sub18 or CDL18s to the bottom of the CDL loudspeaker array cannot exceed 17”. PreSonus recommends the K&M 21334.050.55 Distance Rod.
- The (2) subwoofers must be rigged to one another.
- See CDL Sub18 Owners Manual for instructions.
- (2) CDL loudspeakers atop (1) CDL Sub18 or CDL18s
WARNING: PreSonus only supported pole mounting (2) rigged CDL loudspeakers atop a PreSonus CDL Sub18 or CDL18s subwoofer. No other subwoofers are supported for this application. The maximum pole height from the top of the CDL subwoofer to the bottom of the CDL loudspeaker cannot exceed 33.5”. PreSonus recommends the K&M 21339.000.55 Crank Stand.
The (2) CDL loudspeakers must be rigged to one another. See Section 3.7.1 for instructions.
Technical Information
Specifications
| CDL 12P| CDL 10P
---|---|---
Type| Active 2-way| Active 2-way
LF Driver| 12” (2.5”Voice Coil)| 10” (2.5”Voice Coil)
HF Driver| 8x 2” (1”Voice Coil)| 6 x 2”(1”Voice Coil)
Amplifier Type| Class D| Class D
Total System Power| 2000W Peak, 1000W Program (500W RMS)| 2000W Peak, 1000W
Program (500W RMS)
LF Driver Power| 1000W Peak, 500W Program (250W RMS)| 1000W Peak, 500W Program
(250W RMS)
HF Driver Power| 1000W Peak, 500W Program (250W RMS)| 1000W Peak, 500WProgram
(250W RMS)
Frequency Range (+/- 3dB)| 48 Hz – 18 kHz| 48 Hz – 18 khz
Crossover Frequency| 420 Hz| 420 Hz
Maximum Peak SPL| 130 dB| 130 dB
Horizontal Coverage| 120˚| 120˚
Vertical Coverage| 15˚ per enclosure| 15˚ per enclosure
Input| Line (XLR)| Line (XLR)
Output| Direct Line Out (XLR)| Direct Line Out (XLR)
Mains Connection| Locking 3 conductor AC connector In and Out| Locking 3
conductor AC connector In and Out
DSP Functions| HPF On/Off, No. arrayed boxes, PreSonus subwoofer configuration
preset| HPF On/Off, No. arrayed boxes, PreSonus subwoofer configuration preset
Indicators| Signal, -3 dB, Limiter, Clip| Signal, -3 dB, Limiter, Clip
Enclosure| 15 mm Polypropylene| 15 mm Polypropylene
Mounting| Dual-position pole mount (0˚ and 7.5˚), Integrated Rigging (10:1
load)| Dual-position pole mount (0˚ and 7.5˚), Integrated Rigging (10:1 load)
Dimensions (H x W x D)| 18.7” x 20.7” x 17.5” (475 mm x 525 mm x
445 mm)
| 14.4” x 19.7” x 15.6” (365 mm x 500 mm x
395 mm)
Weight| 63 lbs (28.6 kg)| 46.8 lbs (21.2 kg)
Optional Accessories| CDL12P-Tote Tote Bag| CDL10P-Tote Tote Bag
Mechanical Drawings
CDL 12P
CDL 10P
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© 2023 PreSonus Audio Electronics, Inc. All Rights Reserved. PreSonus and WorxAudio are trademarks or registered trademarks of PreSonus Audio Electronics, Inc. Other product names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective companies. All specifications subject to change without notice…except the recipe, which is a classic.