Classical music gets its own loudspeaker designs courtesy of KV2

Dubbed the Classic Series, the range is intended to eliminate an effect that is particularly noticeable in the reduction of the extreme dynamics found in live classical music and the lack of real high frequency, instead adding a distortion which creates a harsh brash sound for many instrumental, choral or vocal performances.

Consisting of two models – the smaller Sonata and the larger Symphony – with their associated tri-amplified stereo electronic control packs, the Classic Series features Super Analogue components and Super Acoustic transducer designs. The acoustic cabinets are optimised for classical and jazz performance and finished in standard black, optional gloss black piano finish or polished wood.

The manufacturer has also collaborated with renowned piano manufacturer Petrof to develop an aesthetically pleasing and accurate grand piano amplification system in the form of the Active Grand Piano Lid.

The amplification of grand pianos for both live performance and recording generally relies on the placement of external microphones on boom stands positioned between the open lid of a piano and its soundboard. This method of amplifying a grand piano is not ideal as it captures unwanted sounds reflected by the piano lid, in addition to mechanical and ambient noise from around the instrument. Furthermore the inconsistent placement and individual characteristics of each microphone, proximity, type and quality, along with the varying skills of different sound engineers mean that it is almost impossible to consistently achieve the ‘true’ sound of an individual grand piano in different venues and applications.

The Active Grand Piano Lid features three built-in microphones as well as an ultra high quality super analogue microphone pre-amplification unit. The microphones are fitted on flexible mountings within the grand piano’s lid that isolates the audio pick up from unwanted vibrations and noise. Two of the microphones provide a stereo image of the piano’s performance whilst the third microphone provides an overall spectral balance picking up only the pure, direct sound from the soundboard.

The pre-amplification unit features KV2 Audio’s VHD line drivers on each output ensuring the lowest possible loss of signal on cable runs up to 500m. It also features a presence switch for applications when the piano is required to cut-though the mix. Female XLR outputs come as standard and are powered by Phantom Power from the mixing desk or from an external power supply.

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Web: www.kv2audio.com