TAMPA, FL (PTA) — As far as I remember this was only the second line array at the show. The other being the one from Bob Carver. Each one sounding much different from the other, this one from Vaughn sounding to me more conventional in a good way. All the players involved: Vaughn Loudspeakers, Linear Tube Audio (LTA), MJ Acoustics, Anticables, Wavelength Audio, Aurender.

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The Story

As far as visually noteworthy rooms at the Florida Audio Show go, this one really caught me off guard. It didn’t look like much. But as I asked a few questions, query turned to intrigue, and then astonishment.

Firstly, the Vaughn Zinfandel 9-0 Compact Line Array loudspeakers, which start at a base price of $6k, but do have a price increase depending on how you top them off in the high-frequency ranges. Each base loudspeaker features nine 4-inch white cone drivers loaded in line array, and dual outward facing passive radiators. From there it’s your choice of treble: Horn Tweeter (included at the base price), AMT Tweeter (add $1k), or Plasma Tweeter (add $6k).

The frequency limitations of the line array at the lower end are compromised by the size of the 4-inch driver, down to about 70hz. However it is by design that two subwoofers, like the two from MJ Acoustics be used on either side to flank the scale of low end in true stereo.

It almost went without notice that the Linear Tube Audio ZOTL Ultralinear was in the system, as had I not asked for a room sheet, I might have mistaken it for the ZOTL 10. The new ZOTL Ultralinear Integrated generates 20 watts per channel. This means it can easily drive speakers with sensitivity ratings at or above 88db for critical listening. For smaller rooms or non-critical listening, it can drive speakers rated down to 85db.

The Sound

The degree of focus and imaging were not bettered anywhere else at the show. With the Plasma Tweeter engaged atop the line array, I was gifted a remarkably smooth and uncluttered top end. Imaging from the line arrays was just about perfect as I could expect from any loudspeaker. The low-end blending from the subs was convincing enough that I had to ask if they were even activated. They were. The room had slam and poise. It was power and grace on display, and I was mightily pleased with the sound.