COSMO
Product video
Sound distribution with depth
The narrow or narrower-dispersion models of the COSMO family direct the sound energy to a smaller spatial angle. This significantly increases the range and ensures the sound is distributed very consistently over the entire area.
Horizontal asymmetrical sound distribution
It normally makes sense for line arrays to have an asymmetrical horizontal dispersion pattern: the upper components should have a narrower pattern because they have to cover larger distances, and this should grow increasingly wider towards the bottom in order to provide sufficient coverage in front of the stage. However, conventional line array systems often have a fixed horizontal dispersion pattern (typically 90 to 120 degrees) to create a sufficiently wide sound field over the first few metres. This means that even at medium distances, these arrays generate very wide sound fields that cause a large part of the sound energy to be reflected unintentionally off walls or cover areas outdoors where sound is not actually required. By combining the three COSMO mid/high units, it is easy to create an array with horizontally asymmetrical dispersion, which avoids the disadvantages described above and solves typical sound issues in the best possible way.
COSMO rigging concept
The COSMO family’s three-point compressed-mode rigging concept offers numerous practical advantages:
- Minimal space requirements
COSMO arrays require very little rigging space. The compressed mode concept means that all the mid/high units are hung in a straight line below each other. There is no curving until the entire array is compressed. - Minimal personnel requirements
The mid/high units stay straight on top of each other when pre-assembling the array. No force is applied to the system until the last step when the system is compressed. What’s more, because the system is only connected at three points, it can be rigged easily by just one person. - Easy-to-adjust curvature
As COSMOS’s angle adjustment hardware only serves to limit travel and does not carry any weight, it is quick and easy to adjust the system’s curvature, even if it is already rigged. Simply loosen the tensioning strap, reposition the quick-release pins to set the desired angle and compress the array again. - Easy, time-saving dismantling
These features also make dismantling the system extremely quick and easy. Once ‘relaxed’, simply place the array on the dolly package by package and effortlessly roll it away.
Ease of storage and transport are key criteria when it comes to assessing the cost-effectiveness of sound systems. Buyers are ultimately faced with two questions: How do I use the available space most effectively, and how do I minimise the time spent on the various tasks that need to be performed?
Our approach in developing the COSMO logistics concept was to keep it as simple as possible.
When applied to the COSMO product line, this means that only a few components are used, which always fit the modular dimensions of the Euro pallet. This simplifies handling, makes storage clearer, speeds up loading and makes optimum use of the available truck space.
COSMO mixed array
One feature that adds a great deal of practical value that only the integrative COSMO family can offer is the option to configure mixed arrays. Mixed arrays are made up of two or three types of COSMO mid/high units combined to create an asymmetrical throw pattern along the horizontal plane. This is particularly wide in front of the stage, less wide for medium distances and more focused for long distances. The C 6, C 8 and C 10 fit directly on top of each other without adapter frames. Because there are no mechanical interruptions of the line source at any point, this setup emits a wavefront that is acoustically continuously coherent.
Efficiency
There are many parameters that affect the cost-effectiveness of a sound system. The integrative COSMO line array family adds a few more factors to consider. Of course, the new COSMO line array family offers state-of-the-art acoustic performance and sophisticated, user-friendly handling. But what makes COSMO so fundamentally different from anything else on offer? Most line array suppliers offer several systems in different sizes. Typical standards in the compact class are two-way systems with two 6.5″, 8″ or 10″ transducers. The system is then selected to suit the venue and the type of audio to be transmitted. Mid-sized and larger rental companies usually invest in two or sometimes three systems of different sizes in order to be able to meet the constantly changing sound requirements. It is often necessary to combine these systems with each other or with the next larger 2 x 12″ or 2 x 15″ systems – this requires special adapter frames. Although this is awkward and also acoustically questionable due to the gaps it leaves, it leads to better utilisation of the existing stock and thus to cost-effectiveness. When designing the new HK Audio COSMO line array concept, however, we were in a position to take all practically relevant factors into account from the outset and to plan not just one line array but an entire family of three systems that can be optimally coupled both acoustically and mechanically.
Compared to conventional solutions, this results in a whole catalogue of economic advantages: The bottom line: The innovative, comprehensive system concept means that HK Audio’s COSMO is significantly more economical and user-friendly, and delivers sound to meet even the highest requirements – all in one coherent overall concept.
- Far fewer components to cover a wide range of applications
- Comparatively more usage time for each component
- Simplified storage and logistics
- Fewer people and less time required for handling
- Less training required – only once instead of three times
- Less total storage requirements
- Far lower overall investment requirement
- More effective investment protection – an existing system can be expanded as required.
The bottom line: The innovative, comprehensive system concept means that HK Audio’s COSMO is significantly more economical and user-friendly, and delivers sound to meet even the highest requirements – all in one coherent overall concept.
Subwoofer
The C SUB family of subwoofers are extremely high-powered, offering high efficiency and impressive low bass performance. They are optimised for use with the CONTOUR X point sound sources and the COSMO line arrays, with components and workmanship that meet the same high standards.
Electronics
We recommend the Lab.Gruppen PLM+ and Powersoft X series of high-performance power amps. Special filter settings are also available for these controller amps.
