R-Series to the Max as I-Series goes Compact
Published: PRODUCTS
Format changes within Community Professional’s R-Series and I-Series loudspeakers have highlighted additional functionality for these established lines.
Within the I-Series, five smaller footprint models have been launched. Dubbed I-Series Compact, the speakers have been designed to match the performance, appearance and voicing of the larger I-Series point source and subwoofer models.
Starting with the smallest model, the 6.5-inch IC6-1062 features what the manufacturer describes as ‘unprecedented LF extension for its cabinet size’ and a wide dispersion 100-degrees x 100-degrees fabric dome HF on a shallow waveguide. Moving up in size, the single 8-inch IC6-1082 and symmetrical dual 8-inch IC6-2082 are each available with two rotatable horn patterns (120-degrees x 60-degrees, 90-degrees x 60-degrees) paired with a 1.7-inch diaphragm HF compression driver. All models are available in a standard black or white painted finish, and with or without a 70V/100V autoformer.
In other I-Series news, Community has introduced optional weather-resistant PolyGlas enclosures for all of its 800-Level and 600-Level loudspeakers, including the new Compact models. According to the manufacturer Mil Spec 810G-tested PolyGlas cabinets reduce lead times considerably and are virtually immune to the destructive effects of moisture and temperature cycling.
The cabinets are constructed from a dense structural-grade composite embedded with dual layers of fiberglass cloth. Finished cabinets are coated with exterior-grade grey paint and a UV-resistant top coat, while dual-layer powder-coated marine-grade aluminum grilles backed with NeverWet-treated acoustic fabric provide additional protection. The manufacturer describes the audio performance and physical appearance of the cabinets as ‘nearly indistinguishable from traditional indoor loudspeakers in wood enclosures’.
Moving on to the R-Series, the family of outdoor speakers has been expanded with two full-range R-Max models and a high-output R-Max bass horn. All three models are fully horn loaded and available with a variety of configure-to-order options, including custom colours.
Looking at the specifics of the models, the 50-degrees x 20-degrees R2-52Max features dual 12-inch neodymium LF transducers, dual 2-inch exit MF drivers, and a 1-inch exit HF driver. Its maximum continuous output rating of 135dB SPL (141dB Peak) is reportedly the highest of any R2MAX model. The 50-degrees x 10-degrees R6-51Max uses six 12-inch neodymium LF transducers, six 2-inch exit MF drivers, and six 1-inch exit HF drivers to produce 144dB (150dB Peak) maximum continuous SPL over an operating range of 44Hz to 17.5kHz. Finally, the R6-BHMax bass horn uses six 12-inch LF transducers that provide extended LF response to supplement the R651Max or other full-range R-Series loudspeakers.