OmniTop8
OmniTop 8: Unleash Big Sound from a Compact, High-Sensitivity PA Top
Introduction:
Experience powerful, crystal-clear audio without the bulk! The OmniTop 8 is a revolutionary horn-loaded PA top designed for musicians, DJs, and sound engineers who demand exceptional sound quality in a portable package. Smaller and more manageable than the OTop 12 or DR200, this compact powerhouse delivers the punch of a line array speaker without sacrificing performance. Designed by the legendary audio engineer Bill Fitzmaurice, the OmniTop 8 is your ticket to professional-grade sound at a fraction of the cost of commercial systems.
Premium Components for Superior Sound:
The OmniTop 8 isn’t your average speaker. It’s meticulously engineered with premium components to achieve unrivaled sonic clarity and impressive volume. Let’s delve into the specifics:
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Dual High-Performance 8-Inch Woofers: We’ve packed two robust 8-inch woofers into the OTop 8, ensuring tight, punchy bass and rich mid-range response. The horn-loaded design maximizes efficiency, allowing these drivers to reach their full potential.
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Customizable High-Frequency Options: Tailor your sound with three distinct high-frequency configurations, mirroring the versatility of our flagship OTop 15:
- Dual Compression Drivers: Mounted on a constant directivity horn for focused, long-throw sound projection.
- 10-Element Vertical Tweeter Array: Provides smooth, even coverage for a wide listening area.
- Exclusive 20-Element Melded Tweeter Array: Experience unmatched high-frequency detail and dispersion. This proprietary design surpasses any comparable commercial PA top, delivering pristine highs with exceptional control. This configuration puts out an incredible 95dB sensitivity at 1 meter/2.83v!
Performance That Defies Its Size:
Don’t let the compact form factor fool you. The OmniTop 8 boasts a sensitivity rating of 95dB (1W/1m), meaning it can achieve astonishingly loud volumes with minimal amplifier power, loaded with a pair of Eminence Beta 8 drivers and a 20-element melded array. With a usable frequency response down to 80Hz, the OmniTop 8 is surprisingly versatile, handling many gigs without a subwoofer. It’s the perfect solution for:
- Acoustic Performances: Deliver pristine vocals and instrumentals with exceptional clarity.
- Smaller Venues & Events: Fill the room with rich, full-bodied sound without overwhelming the space.
- Mobile DJs & Bands: Enjoy a powerful PA system that’s easy to transport and set up.
The DIY Advantage: Save Big Without Compromising Quality:
The blue trace in the chart represents the sensitivity of a pair of JBL VRX 928LA cabinets, a popular choice in the pro audio world. Notice the significantly lower sensitivity due to their lack of horn-loaded woofers. Each VRX 928LA will set you back a staggering $1750! The OmniTop 8 offers comparable or superior performance at a fraction of the cost, thanks to the power of DIY. You’re not just building a speaker; you’re building a Bill Fitzmaurice design, a testament to decades of audio innovation.
Built to Impress: Dimensions and Build Details:
- Dimensions: 16″ wide x 22″ high x 18″ deep
- Weight: Approximately 40 pounds
- Build Difficulty: 4/10 (Moderate)
- Performance Rating: 7/10 (Excellent)
While the OmniTop 8 build presents a moderate challenge, the reward is a high-performance speaker system that rivals commercial offerings costing thousands more.
Who is the OmniTop 8 For?
The OmniTop 8 is the ideal choice for:
- Musicians: Solo artists, bands, and ensembles seeking a powerful and portable PA solution.
- DJs: Elevate your sets with crystal-clear highs and punchy bass.
- Sound Engineers: Add a versatile and high-performing speaker to your arsenal.
- DIY Audio Enthusiasts: Experience the satisfaction of building a professional-grade sound system.
- Venues and rental services looking for an affordable, but high-quality sound solution.
Scalable Sound for Any Event:
- Small to Medium Crowds: Two OmniTop 8s will comfortably cover audiences of up to 200 people.
- Larger Events: Scale up to four cabinets for impressive sound reinforcement for up to 400 people.
Complete Your System: Recommended Subwoofer Pairings:
To unleash the full potential of the OmniTop 8 and achieve earth-shaking low-end, pair it with one of our high-performance DIY subwoofers:
- Tuba 24
- Tuba 30
- Tuba 45
- Tuba 60
- Titan 39
- Titan 48
The Verdict: Unmatched Value and Performance:
The OmniTop 8 offers an unparalleled combination of compact size, powerful performance, and exceptional value. With a comparable retail value of $1299, building your own OmniTop 8 is a smart investment that will elevate your sound to the next level. Build your own OT8 today for a fraction of the cost!