NAMM: EV launches EVOLVE 50M column loudspeaker system

Electro-Voice is expanding its EVOLVE series with the launch of the EVOLVE 50M column loudspeaker system. The EVOLVE 50M features Electro-Voice’s new QuickSmart Link digital audio and control technology, an onboard mixer, DSP and effects – all combined within the sleek EVOLVE 50 format. The EVOLVE 50M is the perfect choice for bands/musicians, AV rental companies, DJs and any application where pro audio performance is required in a super-compact and portable package.

Available in black or white finishes, the EVOLVE 50M combines state-of-the-art industrial design, Electro-Voice-engineered components and premium materials to deliver top-end sound quality, power and reliability. The full-range column array and its eight lightweight 3.5” neodymium drivers provide ultra-wide, full-bandwidth 120° coverage via proprietary waveguides; array-formed 40° asymmetrical vertical coverage ensures acoustic output is directed towards both sitting and standing audience members. The array enclosure is constructed from a durable composite material and incorporates an ergonomic aluminum handle. A 12” subwoofer is housed in a 15 mm wood enclosure with a high-efficiency laminar-flow vent design, for enhanced rigidity and acoustical performance. The array and sub are connected via a symmetrical aluminium pole with internal wiring and magnetically assisted latching. The speakers are protected by a black powder-coated 18-gauge steel grille, and an array/pole carry case is included. Class-D amplifier provides up to 1000 W of power.

Equipped with a comprehensive and user-friendly feature set, the EVOLVE 50M’s “M” designation refers to its integrated fully featured, configurable eight-channel digital mixer. Developed in collaboration with the audio electronics engineering team at Electro-Voice’s sibling brand Dynacord, the mixer has multiple inputs (4x XLR/TRS combo mic/line inputs, 1x XLR/TRS combo stereo line input, 1x RCA, 1x 3.5 mm stereo, 1x Hi-Z instrument input) with professional-grade preamps and mix functions. High-resolution, low-latency Bluetooth streaming ensures excellent results for music playback or accompaniment. Independent channel aux sends and a foot switch input are also included, and a range of effects (30 presets, including chorus, delay, flange and reverb, via two FX channels) add a myriad of options for musicians to fine-tune their tone. All of the above help to reduce load-in/out and setup/teardown time – and on-stage clutter – by minimising the need for external equipment such as a mixer and effects pedals.

New from Electro-Voice, QuickSmart Link makes it easy to combine two EVOLVE 50Ms for use together with larger bands or gigs needing more inputs. Simply link the systems together via an Ethernet cable to create an uncompressed digital audio/control connection, pair both systems to a single mobile device via the QuickSmart Mobile app (available via the Apple App Store and on Google Play), and get full mix control of both systems. For applications requiring fewer inputs, but still requiring a mixer and stereo output, the EVOLVE 50M can be matched with an EVOLVE 50 via the MIX OUT XLR connector.

The EVOLVE 50M’s control panel features Electro-Voice’s powerful QuickSmart DSP, which allows the navigation and adjustment of all audio, effects and mix functions via an LCD with single-knob control or via the QuickSmart Mobile app, as well as multiple options for signal routing and inputs. Functions include four presets (Music, Live, Speech, Club), three-band system EQ (low, mid, high), seven-band graphic EQ (in Mixer mode), five user-programmable presets (Store and Recall settings), phantom power, visual monitoring of limiter status, input level control and meters, and a master volume control to optimise gain structure.