BASSBOSS DV12-MK3 Powered Loudspeaker User Manual
- May 15, 2024
- BASSBOSS
Table of Contents
DV12-MK3 Single 12”
Powered Loudspeaker
User Manual
Overview
The DV12-MK3 uses a line-array derived 1.4” throat isophasic wave guide
instead of a conventional horn. Coupled to the wave-guide is a 3” diaphragm,
Neodymium motor compression driver.. This combination provides effortlessly
high SPL over very wide and consistent horizontal coverage of 120° with a
tight vertical pattern of 20°. This extends high frequency intelligibility
farther than a conventional horn and allows for two arrayed cabinets to
provide coherent, linearray style performance.
The lower frequencies are produced by a 12” woofer that features a Neodymium
magnet for light weight and high efficiency, a 4” voice coil for high power
handling, and a symmetrical, long-excursion suspension for accurate and
extended bass response. So much bass response that it could easily serve as a
subwoofer driver.
Power is supplied by an amplifier that can deliver output peaks of 163V, to
provide amazing dynamic resolution and impact. The fully integrated and
comprehensive digital processing ensures smooth response and reliable
operation thanks to meticulous filter alignments and five- stage limiters that
protect the drivers from excessive peaks, and also from thermal overload, by
monitoring real power output over time. The amplifier features a large heat
sink and 2 temperaturecontrolled fans to ensure consistent
operation under even the most extreme conditions.
The DV12-MK3 is the ultimate in plug and play, with universal voltage
compatibility and no need for any outboard gear other than a sound source. The
processing features presets that allow it to run in multiple configurations.
The fullrange mode,
Preset 1, provides response down to 40Hz (-3dB). Each successive preset
filters the lows out at higher frequencies, allowing the DV12-MK3 to be
perfectly integrated with various types and sizes of subwoofers.
Each preset has a specific high-pass filter frequency and alignment filters
that ensure it’s always phase coherent with any BASSBOSS sub. As low-frequency
demand is reduced, higher sound levels can be achieved. In the higher presets,
this allows each DV12 to provide enough mid-high power for multiple
subwoofers. The DV12-MK3 can be combined with any BASSBOSS subwoofer because
all the presets are programmed to align with all the subs. Each preset offers
advantages that suit certain applications and preferences. No matter which
preset you choose, your BASSBOSS subs and tops will always play in harmony.
The cabinet is made from 15mm Birch and features bracing for additional
rigidity. The design incorporates a 4-degree down-angle that ensures the even
distribution of high-frequency energy from the front to the back of a venue
when the DV12-MK3 is placed at the appropriate height on a tripod or support
pole. Additional features include a 35mm (1-3/8”) steel pole socket, eight fly
points and six handles. The amplifier is recessed from the back of the cabinet
to protect it in transit. A perforated steel grille protects the woofer, and
its progressive perforation pattern serves to broaden midrange dispersion. The
high-frequency lens and port are left clear of the grille to minimize
reflections and air flow noise that could compromise sound quality.
Should you ever need more sound than can be produced by one DV12-MK3 per side,
their invertible array feature allows the perfect summing of two speakers,
which provides a big increase in output and projection without compromising
the crystal clarity. This is an additional benefit of the line-array
waveguides. When two DV12-MK3s are vertically stacked with the HF lenses
adjacent, (top cabinet inverted) the high-frequency sections of the two boxes
sum perfectly, as they would in a line-array, while the low-frequency sections
sum in a column for improved low-frequency directivity and greatly increased
output. Compared to conventionally arrayed boxes, this results in 3dB more SPL
and much smoother response in the high-frequency ranges.
The MK3 features an all-new DSP. The comprehensive suite of processing
includes high-pass and low-pass filters as well as multiple protection systems
and limiters to prevent driver overload in as many ways as possible, including
thermal, excursion and clipping. The five levels of protection actively
prevent overheating of the voice coil, minimize long-term thermal compression
and limit excursion. Because they operate in 5 different modes, the limiters
are sophisticated enough to have a largely unnoticable effect on the transient
response and allow the subwoofer to deliver peak output safely.
The new DSP features an Ethernet interface. This can be used to control the
cabinets from a computer or to load software or firmware updates. The ethernet
connectivity in conjunction with the DSP board allows signal to be sent via
Milan AVB. Firmware updates will provide access to this feature.
Within the software, multiple cabinets can be grouped together, allowing them
to respond to commands simultaneously.
This permits the levels of multiple loudspeakers to be adjusted together and
yet independently from the levels of other groups of loudspeakers. In addition
to individual and grouped level controls, presets can be loaded and signal
levels and temperatures can be monitored. Each cabinet includes a two-port
switch so multiple cabinets can be chained on the same data cable.
The MK3 DSP features storage capacity of up to 100 presets, eight of which can
be accessed at the touch of a button with no need for a connected computer.
The eight directly accessible presets are compatible with all the presets in
the MK3 Top Boxes and are also compatible with previous generation tops and
subs.
Quick Start Guide
- Ensure the cabinet is secure and stable.
- Connect signal via the XLR-F input.
- Connect the XLR-M connector to additional subs or tops.
- Connect the mains power and verify the “Ready” LED is lit.
BASSBOSS systems are easy to set up quickly. The best possible results are
achieved consistently because of the integrated nature of the designs. All
BASSBOSS loudspeakers are complete, integrated systems, featuring the cabinet,
transducer, amplifier and a comprehensive suite of processing. Setup is
particularly easy because the products integrate with each other.
Provided the cabinets are physically aligned, any BASSBOSS sub can be combined
with any BASSBOSS top and their outputs will be phase-coherent. This means no
cancellations and no gaps in the response at the crossover frequency,
regardless of which preset is selected.
The on-board BASSBOSS processing allows for the following:
Any BASSBOSS powered subwoofer can be combined with any other BASSBOSS Powered
subwoofer and their outputs will sum coherently. (i.e.: in phase with each
other.)
Any BASSBOSS powered subwoofer or combination of BASSBOSS powered subwoofers
can be combined with any BASSBOSS powered top and their outputs will sum
coherently through the crossover region.
HOWEVER only one model of top should be used at a time. An assortment of
different tops cannot be stacked together and still achieve coherence and
clarity.
The following tops should be used individually, i.e. should NOT be arrayed:
AT312 (Co-axial point-source Main)
DiaMon (Co-axial point-source satellite)
SV9 (2-way monitor with Satellite mode)
The following tops can be used in arrays:
MFLA (Medium Format Line Array, up to 20 cabinets can be arrayed)
AT212 (Horizontally arrayable when necessary)
DV12 (Arrayable in PAIRS ONLY with the upper box of the pair inverted.)
Outboard Processing Warning
Third-party outboard processing (Drive Racks, etc.) are not recommended and
are not necessary with BASSBOSS MK3 series powered loudspeakers. Outboard
processing will not improve, and will very likely degrade the sound quality,
reliability and output capacity. Using external processing inappropriately can
cause driver damage that is not covered by warranty.
The internal processing can accomplish everything an external processor could
accomplish without degrading the sound quality and without putting components
at risk. Before considering using an outboard processor, contact BASSBOSS
customer service with your use-case scenario for assistance in setting up the
internal processing to achieve your goals.
Setup Procedure
Once the the cabinet is in the desired location, signal cables should be
connected via the XLR-F input.
It’s recommended to run balanced signal cables to minimize the chance of noise
and ground-loop hum.
The incoming signal should be unprocessed because all the necessary processing
is done in the builtin DSP.
The signal should be run directly from the outputs of a mixer or controller.
The XLR-M connector provides a full-range, unprocessed, pass-through
connection to additional cabinets. This output can be connected to additional
subs or tops. Up to 12 cabinets can be connected on a single output from a
mixer or controller.
Connecting the mains power. The power connector is a Neutrik powerCON True1
TOP waterproof type.
The power connector inserts with the silver tab rotated counter clockwise from
vertical, at about the 10:00 position, and once inserted, rotates clockwise to
the 12:00 position to lock in place. Once locked, this connector is
waterproof.
This connector also serves as the power switch. To disconnect and remove the
connector, pull back on the silver tab to unlock it and rotate it counter
clockwise. Once rotated to the insertion angle, the connector can be removed.
When connecting and disconnecting, no force should need to be applied. If the
connector doesn’t insert and rotate smoothly, either it’s in the wrong
position or it’s damaged and should be replaced. Always use a grounded outlet.
The supplied power cord includes a standard grounding NEMA 5-15 (Edison)
120-Volt US wall plug. In unfamiliar locations it’s recommended to verify the
correct wiring of outlets before powering your system.
It’s highly recommended to connect all signal and power cords to the speakers
before plugging the power cords into mains outlets. When your speaker is
powered on, you’ll see all the indicator lights turn on and then show the
system’s current status.
Although the DV12 cabinet is equipped with a 35mm steel pole socket, DO NOT
use this speaker on a tripod or extension pole. This socket is to be used with
a special, short section of pole to prevent it from moving once stacked on a
subwoofer.
Operation & Controls
There are 2 controls on the amplifier.
-
Input
This knob adjusts the input level from -72dB to -0dB. To avoid distortion and clipping, make sure the input signal doesn’t exceed +22dB and the incoming signal doesn’t reach clipping before you achieve the desired sound level.
While the amplifier has built-in limiters and safety features to protect itself and the speaker, it can’t protect the speaker from distorted incoming signals. The amplifier will simply amplify the clipped signal, which can do the same damage as clipping an amplifier. Since it’s essentially impossible for these amplifiers to clip, signal-level clipping is the most common cause of damage to these speakers.
If you hear distortion, lower the input level right away. -
Preset Select
Pressing the Preset Select button cycles through presets 1-8, and pressing it again after preset 8 returns to preset 1. Each preset includes all necessary low-pass and high-pass filters at the selected frequencies and all the necessary alignments to maintain phase coherence in the crossover range when used with other BASSBOSS powered speakers.
Presets help you fine-tune the balance between the subwoofers and top speakers. More details on the different combinations are on page 7.
Indicator LEDs
Indicator LEDs – Left side, bottom to top:
Ready: Indicates that power is on and the system is ready to play.
Signal: Indicates the presence of input signal.
-12dB: Indicates there is 12dB of headroom remaining before reaching maximum output.
-6dB: Indicates there is 6dB of headroom remaining before reaching maximum output.
Limiting: Indicates one of the channels is reducing the incoming signal level
to prevent overdrive.
Overheat: Indicates the amplifier is reducing output to prevent shut-down from
overheating.
Protect: Indicates the amplifier is shut down due to a condition that could
cause further damage.
The Protect LED also is engaged when the system has been muted via the
software.
Comm Link: Indicates communication is active on the LAN connection(s).
Indicator LEDs, Right Side, Bottom to top:
Presets 1-8 – The illuminated LED indicates the corresponding preset is
loaded.
How to Use the Presets
Setting the low-pass filter frequency on the subwoofer to match the top
cabinet’s high-pass filter frequency and balancing their levels will achieve
the smoothest sound across the frequency range.
There are no incompatible combinations.
Selecting high numbered presets on subs with low-numbered presets on tops will
result in increased system output in the overlap range, which can be helpful
in some situations but can also result in a “boomy” sound.
When the subwoofer levels are to be run higher than tops levels, (which is
almost always) the effective crossover moves higher in frequency. If you
intend to run your system “bass-heavy ” it’s recommended to run lower-numbered
presets on the subs and higher-numbered presets on the tops to avoid an
excessively “boomy” sound.
Selecting low-numbered presets on subs with high-numbered presets on tops may
result in a lack of “punch” in certain combinations. This is most likely when
not enough level is available from the subwoofer(s).
When not enough output is available from the sub(s), using a preset
combination with overlap can help provide a little more bass level but it does
limit the maximum level of the tops due to the added demand for low-
frequencies from the tops.
It’s recommended that you try several, if not all, combinations when first
setting up to determine which combination works best in each environment. You
will likely choose different combinations for wood floors, concrete floors and
outdoors.
Experiment with different combinations to dial in your preferred combination
in different environments. Pre-Installed Onboard Presets
High-pass and low-pass filters with included phase compensation.
Preset 1: 40Hz high-pass filter
Recommended for use when no sub is available.
Peak output is restricted to prevent low frequencies damaging the loudspeaker.
- Preset 2: 50Hz high-pass filter
- Preset 3: 60Hz high-pass filter
- Preset 4: 70Hz high-pass filter
- Preset 5: 80Hz high-pass filter
- Preset 6: 90Hz high-pass filter
- Preset 7: 100Hz high-pass filter
- Preset 8: 110Hz high-pass filter
With their levels matched, when the low-pass filter frequency selected on the
subwoofer is matched with the high-pass filter frequency selected on the Top
cabinet, the smoothest frequency response should be achieved.
Additional presets are accessible through software. See “How to Use the
Presets” section for more information.
New presets will be available for download at
bassboss.com/software as they are developed.
To be notified when new presets are released register your gear at:
www.bassboss.com/support Instructions on
linking to your computer for remote monitoring and control:
www.bassboss.com/software Information and
setup tips about how to get the best and most out of your system:
bassboss.com/edu
Power Distribution
Connect no more than one 5000W or two 2500W subwoofer amplifiers to a single
20A circuit. If you need to share circuits don’t exceed two BASSBOSS single-
driver subwoofers or one double-driver subwoofer along with one or two top
speakers on the same circuit.
Although amplifiers for tops and subs may be specified to have the same power
capacity, amplifiers used for tops applications tend to draw significantly
less current. Subwoofers draw far more current than tops due to the demands
for level and the duration of the notes.
The amplifiers can operate on mains supply from 100 to 250VAC. To connect to
voltages other than 120V, a different mains connector plug must be used.
Contact your salesperson for information about purchasing cables for alternate
voltages.
Pass-through Power connections can be used to power additional cabinets. With
optional True 1 TOP cables, power can be linked between subs and tops. Do not
connect equipment that will draw more than 15A on a single power outlet.
Contact your salesperson for information about linking power cables.
Avoid powering all subwoofers on the same circuit. Instead, use separate
circuits for each subwoofer and top speaker combo to help prevent overloading
a single circuit and tripping a breaker.
Troubleshooting
If, after following the previous instructions for setup, you have no output
from the loudspeaker:
Verify that the green Ready LED is lit. If NOT lit, check the following:
- Is the power cord plugged into a live outlet?
- Is the Neutrik powerCON connector rotated into the locked position?
If the green Ready LED is lit, check the following:
-
Is the red Protect LED illuminated? The unit may be in protect mode or set into mute via software.
-
Is the signal cable connected to the input?
-
Is the signal cable connected to an operating output at the other end?
-
Is there signal flowing to the input? Check the integrity of the cable against a different cable.
-
Is the volume knob turned all the way down or at a very low level?
-
Is the signal flowing to the input full-range?
Filters in the signal may remove the operating frequencies of the loudspeaker receiving them. -
If you’re connected via LAN, check the level and filter settings in the software.
Specifications
Acoustical
Loudspeaker Description: | Wide dispersion compact full-range speaker |
---|---|
Frequency Response (±3 dB): | 40 – 19,000 Hz |
Max Sustained Output: | 128 dB SPL, 1m |
Maximum Measured Output: | 134 dB SPL, 1m |
Nominal Dispersion (°H x °V): | 120 x 20 |
Electrical
Amplification: | 3200 Watt Two-Channel Class D Amplifier; 2400W LF – 800W HF |
---|---|
Processing: | Integrated comprehensive DSP including high-pass, low-pass, |
parametric EQ, phase alignment and multi-band limiting
Electrical Connectors, Amplifier:| Neutrik PowerCON True 1 TOP in and through
Electrical Connector, Mains:| NEMA 5-15 (Edison)
Voltage Operating Range:| 100-240V AC, 50-60Hz (Auto-sensing, auto switching
universal supply)
Current Draw, Nominal:| 4.6A @ 120 volts, 2.3A @ 220V (Average with music
program)
Display:| LEDs for Power on/ready, Signal, -12dB, -6dB, limiter active,
Thermal, Protect and LAN link active. Eight LEDs indicating selected preset
Signal Input Connector:| XLR-F
Signal Output Connector:| XLR-M pass-through
LAN Connectors:| EtherCON RJ45 (x2) with 2-port Ethernet switch
Physical
Enclosure Type:| Self-powered, bi-amplified, 2-way full-range. Direct
radiating vented LF section, wave-guide-loaded HF section
---|---
Transducer, LF:| 1 x 12” (300 mm) diameter Neodymium motor woofer with 4”
(100mm) voice coil
Transducer, HF:| 1 x 1.4” (35.6 mm) throat Neodymium motor compression driver
with 3” (76mm) voice coil on isophasic wave guide
Cabinet Construction:| CNC machined 15 mm multi-ply Birch plywood with
internal bracing and damping Includes 6 integrated handles and a 35mm pole
socket
Suspension Points:| 8 x internally braced M10 threaded mounting points
Dimensions (HxWxD):| 24.63” x 14.5” x 19.1” (62.6 cm x 36 cm x 48.5 cm)
Net Weight:| 63 lbs. (28 kg)
Shipping Weight:| 68 lbs. (30 kg)
Exterior Finish:| Rugged, weatherproof, black, textured, bonded high-pressure
polyurea coating
Optional
Stacking Bracket:| Adjustable bracket set, mounts second cabinet inverted for
near-perfect summed response and line-array style performance. Provides splay-
angle adjustment from 0 to 8 degrees
---|---
Flying Bracket:| Two DV12s can be arrayed together and flown from the DV12
array flying bracket
Shoulder Eye Bolts:| Use when connecting to the top anchor points
Side-pull anchors:| Use when connecting to the side anchor points
Cover:| Heavy-duty padded nylon transport cover with velcro closure
Loop-through PowerCON TOP:| Power jumper for chaining power between stacked
cabinets
Online Information:| bassboss.com/dv12
Our proactive philosophy causes specifications to be subject to change whenever improvements are made.
Warranty
WARRANTY INFORMATION | Our fully-transferable warranty covers all BASSBOSS
products.
STANDARD CABINET WARRANTY
BASSBOSS loudspeaker cabinet integrity, including all joinery, fasteners,
handles and wood, is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship
for a period of six (6) years from the date of purchase. This warranty does
not cover items that are intended to wear and can be replaced if worn or
damaged. Examples of items not covered by this warranty are cabinet feet,
grilles and the finish or coating applied to the cabinet.
ENHANCED COMPONENT WARRANTY
BASSBOSS amplifiers and electronic components are covered against failures
due to defects in materials and/orworkmanship for a period of three (3) years
from the date of purchase.
TRANSDUCER WARRANTY
Transducers are covered against failures due to defects in materials and/or
workmanship for two (2) years from the date of purchase.
OUR SUPPORT
Warranty support is a service, and part of that service includes helping you
prevent failures and minimize repair and shipping costs. Please do not ship
products without obtaining a return authorization number (RMA) by contacting
BASSBOSS at bassboss.com/support. If you need to ship your speaker for
service, BASSBOSS technicians will provide assistance on shipping and
packaging requirements specific to your service needs.
WARRANTY LIMITATIONS
During the warranty period, if your loudspeaker malfunctions or fails due to
any defect in components or manufacturing, the failed parts will be repaired
or replaced. This warranty does not extend to damage resulting from improper
installation, misuse, neglect or abuse. Warranty coverage and eligibility will
be determined upon inspection by BASSBOSS personnel. This warranty does not
cover labor other than that authorized and performed by BASSBOSS personnel.
Service will be performed upon the return of the failed unit, together with
its original sales receipt or other proof of purchase, to BASSBOSS or an
Authorized Service Facility. Purchaser is responsible for all costs of
shipping and handling. Cosmetic damage is specifically excluded from this
warranty. This warranty is rendered void if service, repairs and/or
modifications are attempted or made by anyone not specifically authorized by
BASSBOSS to perform said services. Please contact BASSBOSS or your local
BASSBOSS dealer before attempting any repairs and before shipping parts in for
service. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have
other rights, which vary from state to state.
Safety Information
Important information regarding safety and the use of your loudspeakers:
To prevent potentially dangerous exposure to high levels of acoustic pressure,
never stand in the immediate vicinity of loudspeakers driven at a high level
without hearing protection. Professional loudspeaker systems are capable of
causing sound pressure levels detrimental to human health.
When a transducer capable of producing high sound levels is being used, it is
necessary to wear ear plugs or protective earphones to prevent hearing damage.
Even seemingly non-critical sound levels (from approximately 95 dB SPL) can
cause hearing damage if people are exposed to it over a long period. Anyone
exposed to these levels should use appropriate hearing protection devices.
System and venue owners and operators are encouraged to make hearing
protection devices available to all customers and staff members.
In order to prevent accidents when setting up the loudspeakers or loudspeaker
stands, make sure they are standing on a firm surface. Ensure that all
additional hardware, fixings and fasteners used for installation or mobile
deployment are of an appropriate size and load safety factor.
Always use the included, factory installed, internally secured M10 fly points
when supporting the cabinets. Use appropriately load-rated hardware. Never
hang loudspeakers from handles. Never drill or screw into cabinets to attach
lifting points.
Pay attention to the manufacturers’ instructions and to the relevant safety
guidelines. Regularly check the loudspeaker housings and accessories for
visible signs of wear and tear, and replace them when necessary. Regularly
check all load bearing bolts in the mounting devices.
Caution: Loudspeakers produce a static magnetic field even if they are not
connected or are not in use. Therefore make sure when erecting and
transporting loudspeakers that they are nowhere near equipment and objects
which may be impaired or damaged by an external magnetic field.
A distance of 3 feet (1m) should be maintained between loudspeakers and
sensitive equipment such as CRT monitors or magnetic storage media.
Never attempt to carry out any operations, modifications or repairs that are
not expressly described in this manual. Contact your dealer or BASSBOSS
support if the product is not functioning properly.
For installation purposes BASSBOSS strongly recommends that this product be
installed by a qualified, professional installer who can ensure correct
installation and certify that it is installed in compliance with the
regulations in force.
The audio system must comply with current local standards and regulations
regarding electrical systems.
Important Notes
Shielded data cables must be used.
To minimize the occurrence of noise and interference, always use shielded
signal cables. Avoid routing signal or data cables close to equipment that
produces high-intensity electromagnetic fields such as transformers, power
cables and loudspeaker wires.
Do not coil excess power cable. Do not coil or wrap power cables and signal or
data cables together.
WARNING
This is a class A product. In a domestic environment, this product may cause
radio interferences, in which case the user may be required to take corrective
measures.
FCC Compliance Notice
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits
for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment.
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a
residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the
user will be required to correct the interference at their own expense.
Manufacturer
True Lee Loudspeakers | BASSBOSS 2028 E Ben White Blvd. #240-8220 Austin TX
78741 We declare, under our sole responsibility, that to the best of our
knowledge to which this declaration relates, our products are in conformity
with the applicable requirements.
Product: DV12-MK3 Loudspeaker Intended use: Professional Audio Loudspeaker
Need more assistance?
We’re here to help.
bassboss.com/support
bassboss.com
References
- BASSBOSS | Professional Loudspeakers Systems
- DV12-MK3 Single 12" Loudspeaker
- Education | BASSBOSS Loudspeaker Systems
- Software | BASSBOSS Loudspeaker Systems
- Software | BASSBOSS Loudspeaker Systems