Q: The VERTEC slogan says, "They Stand Alone"…what does that mean?
A: JBL's research and experience, as well as the practical business aspects of owning a rental sound company, point to the wisdom of a "single-box inventory" approach.
The proven acoustical performance of VERTEC systems enables system users to reliably construct arrays using a single box…just one type of enclosure…for applications that range from small to large venues. So each of these models can "stand alone" in an array. (Some other available systems require the user to incorporate different types of boxes in the same array…long throw, nearfield, wide angle, etc.).

Q: Are the new boxes relatively lightweight like the existing VT4889? How do they compare in size?
A: The new systems offer the benefits of light weight. The midsize VT4888 2-12" system weighs 68% as much as the VT4889 and is about 2/3 the size. The compact VT4887 is only 38% the weight of a VT4889 and is about 1/3 the size.

Q: What do the new systems have in common with the VT4889?
A: All are finished with JBL's exclusive DuraFlex® exterior surface coating. The VT4888, the VT4887 and the VT4881 subwoofer are all constructed using JBL's rigid, lightweight PlyMax™ engineered enclosure panels. They rely on JBL's advanced, dual-coil NDD (Neodymium Differential Drive® ) loudspeaker technology. And all three are "Power-Ready".

Q: What does "Power-Ready" mean?
A. These new system products are pre-engineered to accept JBL's upcoming DrivePack™ units. These self-amplified modules with integral signal processing can be retrofitted as a future, optional upgrade. For an advance look at the size, weight and features that are possible, check out JBL's EVO, the world's first Smart Speaker System.

Q: Can these systems be ordered self-powered from the factory right now?
A. Not at the present time. Full details on the innnovative DrivePack program will be announced in the near future.

Q: Isn't it risky to rely on brand new transducers such as these dual-coil things?
A: No. JBL R&D first developed this technology nearly a decade ago. While these advanced components may be new and mysterious to the market (and to our competitors), they are extremely robust and have an excellent track record. For the infrequent needs to replace components in the field, advance acoustical spares kits (models VT4888-ASP and VT4887-ASP) are available so that pro users and active rental companies can have spares inhouse.

Q: Are the different system products compatible with each other?
A: Yes, the small, midsize and fullsize line array elements can all be "mixed and matched" if so desired for creating special-purpose arrays. A suite of robust suspension frames (such as the VT4800-UA Universal Adapter and the VT4800-CA Compact Adapter) enables a system user to couple, and suspend, the various members of the product line in nearly any configuration.

Q: What gives the VT4881 compact subwoofer its ultra low frequency capabilities?
A: The VT4881 very low frequency module is fitted with a dual-coil loudspeaker, capable of 3" ( 76 mm) peak to peak excursion. This enables honest 18 Hz performance from a relatively small box.

Q. How do these new midsize and compact line array elements compare to other available systems?
A. The VT4888 2-12" system weighs 92 lb. (41.7 kg) less than an EAW KF760 while offering 8 loudspeaker components instead of only 6. The VT4887 2-8" system weighs 13% less than a dV-DOSC while offering true 3-way performance in a bi-amplified system fitted with 8 loudspeaker components instead of only 3.

Q. Are these systems available for sale?
A. Yes. See your JBL Professional International Distributor or USA Regional Representative for pricing and availability.