Rachael Rogerson – MondoDR

Andrea Torelli - K-array

K-array is a brand of HP Sound Equipment srl.

The three founding partners of H P Sound had a background starting in 1990 in studio design and installation, specifically for Radio and Television.

Their first product was developed to solve a problem with the lavalier microphones being used for Italian broadcast, they were unbalanced, so they would pick up hum from dimmers and power feeds.

The HP solution was a miniature microphone with the pre-amp in the cartridge. They continued with their product development, manufacturing various electronics solutions branded by other companies as well as developing their own line of MI based equipment.

By 2005 their sights had turned to live sound reinforcement.

Creative solutions were required once again. K-array speaker systems were born out of necessity.

Here in the head quarter we are less than 20 people, but each of us works like 4. We assume a multi task philosophy. Everyone is aware of everything and knows very clearly which are the company aims. It is the only way to deal quickly with the recurring problems.

We have representatives, dealers and distributors in many parts of the world, from the Americas to Australia (more than 20 different countries).

We have concentrated our efforts and resources into the design and manufacture of highly efficient audio systems that produce unparalleled sonic accuracy. K-array has a complete range of products to suit any application from large-scale arenas to almost invisible systems for theatre, worship, corporate and on-camera presentations that demand speakers that are heard but not seen. I think that a rich heritage of acoustic research allows us to be leading edge of sound technology. This is what the people recognize in K-array.

The real problem with the usual approach to live sound was the cost of transporting and rigging speaker systems that were made of wood and airspace. The shear volume and weight of the traditional transducer systems was expensive and hugely inefficient.

The most funny reaction is when somebody listens to the smallest of our products: KZ10. It is a speaker with the measures of a finger that with a little sub woofer sounds like in heaven. People remain petrified, they do not believe in what they hear and see. They show what we call a "K-face".

Are there any technological aspects in K-array products, which put them ahead in the professional audio market?

The advent of line array technologies in 1992 had provided some improved efficiencies for specific applications, but line array system's capabilities were determined by the number of speaker enclosures used, with a minimum inventory needed.

The narrow vertical pattern required to accomplish the line array's coherent coupling dictated that the cabinets could only be used in line array applications.

Even an entry level speaker system involved a large capital investment.

Systems were not scalable; different inventory was needed for different venues and different types of program.

The K-array KH4 technologies were developed to overcome these problems.

KH4 has over 4000 watts of on-board power, and yet it weighs slightly more than 100 lbs, and measures 6" deep.

It has an operating frequency range of 60 Hz to 19KHz with a peak output capability of 145 dB from a single enclosure.

KH4 provides unprecedented power-to-size ratios and the unique capability of variable Vertical coverage from 70 to 370 . This means that one speaker system will satisfy many live sound requirements on its own. Output can be extended with the companion KS4 self-powered subs, or the same enclosure can be coupled as a line array system.

KH4 and KS4 systems can be flown or ground-stacked using the captured rigging hardware.

I am not sure if I understood your question, but I can not think of a single aspect. K-array product range satisfies various requirements for different applications. Certainly those who choose K-array is looking for something that combines design and technology for the installations market, well as efficiency and ease of assembly for the market of live music. I hope I have been clear.

The KZ10 is truly a jewel.

It's a remarkable ultra micro line array. Designed for discreet use in a variety of situations such as restaurants, bars, museums etc. This tiny line array is housed in a sleek case built around a super strong chassis . This rugged enclosure contains a line array of 4 x 0.5" long excursion full range drivers. These high efficiency drive units have neodymium magnet structures and suspensions engineered for maximum linear excursion and minimum residual transducer noise. This miniature slim column is a mere 1.7cm deep and delivers true crystal clear audio with an amazing output of 92dB continuous remarkable from such a miniscule enclosure.

The system delivers long throw and coherent coverage making it ideal for use in space constrained situations. Up to four KZ10's can integrated to the KKS50 sub bass, extending the frequency range to 35Hz.

The whole package is housed in a heavy-duty case built to last, but not at the expense of weight. The KZ10 weighs a mere 90g and measures 2.2 x 11 x 1.7cm

All the components are designed in-house at our Florence based R&D department. They are custom manufactured to our exacting standards and quality control.

Too difficult to establish. Experience has taught us that things change quickly and without warning. For now there's got better and better