JBL launch CBT System Design software

At Prolight & Sound 2010, JBL Professional is introducing its Constant Beamwidth Technology (CBT) Calculator 1.00 software. The CBT Calculator shows the vertical coverage of JBL CBT line array column loudspeakers by means of an on-screen, cross-sectional sound level coverage display at user-selectable frequencies.

The CBT Calculator allows the use of either one or two JBL Professional CBT loudspeakers, while virtually adjusting their various settings for vertical coverage (narrow or broad) and voicing (speech or music/flat) in a space with up to four independent listening planes. The software also shows frequency response for up to six listener locations as well as an SPL summary of each location over user-defined frequency bands.

With this new software, system designers will be able to determine the best CBT model, the proper vertical coverage and voicing settings, mounting height and down angle, enabling accurate design of the CBT column line array speakers into virtually any application.

“We developed the CBT Series to bring a new level of pattern control and sonic fidelity to the passive line array column product category,” said Rick Kamlet, Senior Director, Commercial Installed Sound, JBL Professional. “Now, with the CBT Calculator 1.00 software, systems integrators have even more tools at their disposal to ensure precision and superior sound when installing CBT Series loudspeakers.”

The CBT Calculator is available and free to download at: www.JBLPro.com/CBTCalculator.

JBL’s CBT Series line array column loudspeakers are the first speakers to incorporate JBL’s newly-introduced and patented Constant Beamwidth Technology™. This technology uses passive beam-forming components to–for the first time ever–deliver constant directivity coverage from a non-powered column, resulting in consistent frequency response at every listener location. CBT introduces a number of technological firsts, including the ability to switch the vertical coverage pattern of a non-powered speaker with a simple switch. The CBT 70J provides non-symmetrical vertical coverage, sending more sound toward the far area of the room than to the near area, resulting in more consistent sound levels within the room from front to back. Models range from an ultra-compact column all the up to a large 2-way, high-fidelity 1,000-Watt full-range model, all at a fraction of the cost of powered digitally-steered columns.