EM Acoustics set out to create the finest two-way medium format loudspeaker possible, and the result was the MSE-159.  To further the potential of this product, it is available now as a self-powered loudspeaker – the MSE-159SP.  What stands the MSE-159SP aside from competitor self-powered products is that it is still a passive loudspeaker – a monobloc amplifier module drives the same circuitry as in the un-powered version, maintaining sonic consistency and avoiding unnecessary DSP processing.

The MSE-159SP is ideal for front-of-house duty for small to medium venues, or as a powerful fill loudspeaker for larger systems.  Any application from live sound reinforcement, through theatre and corporate up to nightclub use and houses of worship can easily be covered by the MSE-159SP.

The MSE-159SP is a two-way self-powered passive loudspeaker, using a 4” voice coil 15” (381mm) neodymium low frequency transducer.  This low frequency drive unit is coupled via the internal passive crossover network to a 4” diaphragm, 1.4” exit neodymium high frequency transducer.  This drive unit loads onto a constant-coverage horn, which yields not only consistent response throughout its operating band across the whole 90-degree by 60-degree the coverage pattern but also strong attenuation outside of this pattern.  The result is a loudspeaker with extremely consistent and predictable coverage, as well as stunning sonic detail – and all with the ease of use that passive crossover technology brings.

The on-board self-powered package contains a monobloc Class-D amplifier module with a PFC power supply to ensure universal mains voltage operation.  Added to this is a powerful DSP card, offering mixed-mode 64-bit processing with a 96kHz sample rate.  This card provides limiters and protection filters for the loudspeaker, as well as user-selectable analog or AES/EBU inputs (analog, AES ch 1, AES ch 2, AES mono sum).  Remote monitoring and control is also provided via an RJ45 Ethernet port.  The MSE-159SP ships from the factory with a variety of pre-programmed DSP settings for high pass filters, to allow maximum flexibility when in use.  Via the remote software, users can create their own specific system settings, including unit delay, EQ and gain structure.  Programs can be easily recalled using the LCD display on the rear of the MSE-159SP.  Audio input & link output are provided on XLR connectors, and mains input & loop out are provided on Neutrik PowerCON connectors.

The drive units are housed within a compact, vented enclosure.  The robust enclosure is constructed from multi-laminate Birch plywood, and is heavily braced to minimise panel reflection.  Incorporated within the enclosure are multi-use rigging plates, which allow suspension of the MSE-159SP swiftly and safely in a variety of ways.  To improve strength and rigidity, internal steel braces are also fitted to allow suspension of one enclosure below another.

Each plate (top & bottom of the enclosure) provides four exposed-thread M10 rigging points as well as the keyhole mounts, and an M8 safety/pull-back point is provided on the rear of the enclosure.  A 35mm polemount socket is provided discretely on the underside for stand mounting. The enclosure also includes two heavy-duty steel bar handles. Lastly, a tough hex-punched grille backed with acoustically transparent foam protects the drive units from damage.  The grille can be quickly removed to rotate the HF waveguide if required.

The enclosure is supplied in black or white as standard, however RAL colour matching and weather protection options are also available if required.