2. Installation of the Tecnare CLA21PLUS

2.1. Rigging and Safety Considerations

The CLA21PLUS weighs 39.5 kg per module, making it crucial to use certified rigging structures capable of supporting the total array load.

🔹 Hanging height: Determined based on the desired coverage range and dispersion pattern.
🔹 Anchor points: Adjustable suspension systems are recommended to optimize vertical coverage.
🔹 Progressive inclination: To ensure homogeneous dispersion, the upper modules should have less tilt, while the lower ones should increase the angle for better coverage of the front rows.

Example Setup

For an auditorium event with 30 meters depth, a 6-module per side configuration is recommended with the following inclination angles:

• Top module: 0° (almost no tilt)
• Second module: 1°
• Third module: 2°
• Fourth module: 3°
• Fifth module: 4°
• Bottom module: 5°-6° (wider dispersion for the front rows)

3. Acoustic Distribution and Configuration

3.1. Directivity and Coverage of the CLA21PLUS

The nominal dispersion of a single CLA21PLUS cabinet is 75° (horizontal) x 13° (vertical). However, when configuring a full array, the vertical coverage varies depending on the number of modules and their inclination.

📌 Recommendation: A 6-module array can achieve an effective coverage of +50°/-20°, ensuring uniform sound distribution from the front to the back rows.

4. System Tuning and Optimization

4.1. Amplification and Processing Setup

The CLA21PLUS features an AES power rating of 1000 W LF / 180 W MF-HF and operates at 8 Ω LF – 16 Ω MF/HF, making proper amplifier selection essential.

🔹 Recommended Amplifiers:

• Tecnare PA3000 / PA5000 (for standard setups)
• Tecnare T20-48 or T10-48 (for advanced DSP control)

🔹 Recommended Processor:

• Tecnare DP4896, featuring FIR filters and phase alignment for optimized frequency response.

4.2. Digital Signal Processing (DSP) Adjustments

To ensure optimal performance, phase correction, equalization, and delay settings must be applied.

4.2.1. Crossover and Band Separation

The CLA21PLUS transducers include:

✅ 2 x 10″ drivers for low frequencies (LF)
✅ 1 x 1.4” coaxial driver with a 4” MF and 2.5” HF in a waveguide

📌 Suggested DP4896 Configuration:

• LF crossover: 60 Hz / 80 Hz (depending on the subwoofer used)
• HF crossover: 18 kHz (-3 dB)
• Phase alignment between bands: Adjusted according to physical alignment and venue response

5. Subwoofer Configuration and Phase Alignment

To reinforce low frequencies, the CLA21PLUS is paired with subwoofers like the Tecnare SW218EB or SW218V.

5.1. Cardioid Subwoofer Configuration

To minimize low-frequency buildup on stage and improve intelligibility, a cardioid subwoofer setup is recommended.

🔹 Example configuration:

• Two SW218EB subwoofers stacked (front-facing)
• A third subwoofer facing backward with 4.5 ms delay to create the cardioid pattern

6. Measurement and Final Tuning

Once the system is installed, measurements must be taken using software such as Smaart or EASE Focus to optimize performance.

6.1. Tuning Steps

1️⃣ Measure near-field and far-field response to verify coverage.
2️⃣ Apply corrective equalization for a more linear response.
3️⃣ Adjust delays between subwoofers and the CLA21PLUS.
4️⃣ Verify phase coherence between LF, MF, and HF bands.

7. Conclusion

The success of a professional sound system depends on precise installation and detailed technical adjustments. The Tecnare CLA21PLUS, with its high sensitivity (110 dBspl), powerful output (2000 W LF / 360 W MF-HF), and controlled dispersion (75° x 13° per cabinet), ensures uniform coverage and powerful sound for live events.

By utilizing tools like EASE Focus, the DP4896 processor, and suitable amplifiers like the Tecnare T-Series, a fully optimized system can be achieved.