how do I decide what system best fits my needs?

The M.LINE series is targeted towards operators who regularly need to move in and out of smaller events... club tours, corporate events, sporting events.. anything where you need to cover up to a few thousand people, yet with only a small crew. While the M.LINE excels in quick-in, quick-out events, the series will scale up to cover smaller performance spaces like traditional theaters and auditoriums of 2000-4000 seats. Operators who regularly work larger venues (5000+) may want to consider the midsize MONARC MLA3 or the larger format MONARC MLA6.


M.LINE is referenced as "high-mobility". what does that really mean?


M.LINE enclosures are HIGH MOBILITY LINE ARRAY because they

  • are very lightweight, weighing under 75lbs per module
  • are very compact... small enough to be carried up stairs or though small door ways by a single man
  • inherit the MONARC rigging system, allowing them to be fully rigged by a single man, within minutes, without tools, heavy lifting or strain.
  • will groundstack right off the same ultra-light 35lb MB1 bumper without the need for any extra parts
  • have all rigging hardware travels within the enclosure, eliminating tool cases or loose parts
  • can be pre-stacked on the MB1 bumper and rolled into place on castors attunements
  • are small enough to fit even in the back of your car if need be!

These factors combine to make the M.LINE system one of the easiest systems to move, set-up, tune and tear down.


WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE M.LINE series and the IN.LINE series?

Internally, both systems are identical. Both feature McCauley's ADAPTIVE FREQUENCY STEERING and both allow the operator to customize coverage by mixing and matching horizontal patterns. Both systems are priced to be very affordable entries into line array technology.

The difference is in the external hardware... IN.LINE (INSTALLATION GRADE LINE ARRAY) features a very basic rigging system which is designed to be set once and installed permanently. IN.LINE modules also have discreet foam fronted steel grills, and ship in black or white, IN.LINE modules are naturally priced less than M.LINE modules, as the hardware and rigging is far simpler and is less expensive to produce.

M.LINE systems feature complete weatherproofing, have more rigged steel faced quick-release grills, and feature a complete rigging and castor board system, designed to efficiently rig and load-in / out night after night. This added functionality makes the M.LINE system slightly more expensive than it's IN.LINE brothers, but still highly competitive when compared to any other compact line array solution.


IS THERE SOFTWARE AVAILABLE TO CALCULATE ARRAY COVERAGE?

Yes. McCauley Sound has developed robust line array calculator software which allows tour operators to quickly build venue geometry and calculate coverage, heights and splay angles. Additionally, McCauley Sound has EASE 4.0/4.1 .dll plug ins available, for contractors or consultants considering these products for permanent installation. Both a free and available now from the downloads section of this web site.


WHAT MODULES MAKE UP THE M.LINE SERIES?


M.LINE consists of four models:

  • M90, a 90 degree horizontal full range module
  • M120, a 120 degree horizontal full range module
  • MS1, a dual 15" volumetrically loaded LF module
  • MB1, an ultra-lightweight aircraft aluminum bumper system
I AM INTERESTED IN BUYING A LINE ARRAY. HOW CAN I HEAR THE M.LINE SYSTEM?

Demo-rigs are traveling the country now for this very purpose. Contact a M.LINE support specialist to arrange for a hands-on demonstration on the technology.


HOW DOES THE M.LINE compare to...

M.LINE systems (at the time of publishing) offer the most "bang for your buck" of any compact line array system available M.LINE arrays inherent the famous MONARC rigging system and as a result are the most versatile and flexible line array systems in this class. No other system rigs as easily, or can offer as many possible configurations from the same standard hardware. Acoustically, M.LINE systems stand out for their tonal balance, clean and clear vocal reproduction, and customizable coverage.


Does the M.LINE SERIES groundstack?

Yes. M.LINE modules are designed to groundstack easily. In fact, unlike most line arrays, the M.LINE’s Integrated Rigging System will allow users to groundstack right off the standard bumper without the need for any special equipment or additional hardware.


What degree of splay can you achieve with M.LINE cells?

Each cell can achieve up to 10 degrees of splay relative to the cell it is attached to.


What kind of hardware do I need to fly a M.LINE rig?

All of the rigging hardware is self-contained within the M.LINE's rigging system, with the obvious exception of the MB1 bumper, chain motor and chain.


How do I adjust array curvature?

Adjusting array curvature is very simple with the M.LINE's Integrated rigging system. Just lower the array until the rear-sides of the cells collapse, and reset the rear pin. Each pin takes approximately 15 seconds to pull and re-pin, so depending on the size of the array, this process could take up to four minutes.


How many M.LINE cells can be safely flown in a single column?

Up to 24 M.LINE cells can be flown at a 7:1 load factor. Not every country requires such stringent strength testing, so please check with your local authorities for more information about such regulations prior to attempting to fly any McCauley line array system.


How many people do you need to rig and fly a M.LINE array?

The M.LINE Integrated rigging system is so efficient and easy to use, that a single person could completely interconnect, set the splay angles and raise the array in under 10 minutes without any tools, without and hand-lifting, and without the need to tether or strap the array..


Does an M.LINE array need to be facing the right direction before it is hoisted?

No. M.LINE cells can be facing just about any direction when the initial assembly is being done. Once the hoist operator begins lifting the array, the column will swing about until it is facing the proper direction. This makes assembling an array very easy, even in awkward quarters.


Do the M.LINE cells need be assembled Directly below the rigging pointS?

No. M.LINE cells can be assembled anywhere on the deck, prior to rig points ever being dropped. Once the front-side connection is established, the column can be rolled into place like a train.


Can the M.LINE form rigid arrays?

Rigid arrays are often necessary when the rig needs to be flown high and out of the way of television cameras (ala Academy Awards) or for other specialized situations. The M.LINE’s Integrated Rigging System is unique in that it is instantly convertible between a fully collapsible operating mode, which is of most useful for general flying, and a completely rigid, inflexible curvature, which is most useful for groudstacking, flown installations, or these unique coverage needs. Regardless, no tools are needed to make the conversion.


Can M.LINE rigging be pre-configured prior to arrival at the venue?

MB1 bumpers can be configured as roll-in carts, which can allow M.LINE cells to be pre-set and rolled into place for groundstack applications. See the feature tour for an in-depth look at this option.


What kind of chain motors should I use?

A M.LINE array can be flown with one or two motors... two motors allows the operator a finer degree of control in the placement of the hang. Cells are 75lbs each, calculate motor strength accordingly.


What is the M.LINE enclosure made of?

12-ply Fin birch is the primary enclosure material while all the fittings and hardware are made from stainless steel. Enclosures elements are cut by computer controlled saws and routers to insure absolute consistency. PROCOAT elastomeric weatherproofing finish is applied to the assembled sub-structure prior to any fittings to seal and protect the construction.


Is the M.LINE weatherproof?

Every M.LINE cell features McCauley’s PROCOAT elastomeric finish, which is a highly resilient, moisture and temperature proof enclosure sealant. Additionally, all fittings and hardware are stainless steel, and moisture re-directing foam protects the frontal complements.


How much does the M.LINE weigh? WHAT ABOUT THE BUMPER?

M90 and M120 is 75 lbs, The MS1 LF module is 145lbs. The MB1 aircraft-aluminum bumper can support 24 cells and weighs an additional 35 lbs.


What kind of speakers are in the M.LINE?

McCauley Sound has long been a manufacturer of both professional loudspeaker components and complete systems, so we enjoy somewhat of an unfair advantage over the competition. Every component in the M.LINE was specifically engineered to meet the design and performance goals as determined by the MONARC engineering team. An in-depth review of the various technologies is available in the features tour section of this site.


How many M.LINE cells do I need?

While the number of cells needed will always depend on the size of venue and coverage required, McCauley Sound recommends a minimum of (4) cells per side. Using less than (4) cells in a column will defeat the beneficial summation and directivity effects that line array technology provides.


What kind of processor does the M.LINE NEED?

Factory approved settings for the M.LINE series are available for all of the top-tier professional processors out there today. Contact a McCauley team member for more information about any processing questions you may have.


What kind of amplifiers should I use?

McCauley Sound recommends that only top-tier professional touring amplifiers be used to power a M.LINE array. All of our in-house testing and field systems use LABGRUPPEN amplifiers. Whatever the case, and whatever your brand preference is, always be sure to have plenty of headroom for the size array you plan to deploy.


Do I need subwoofers? What kind of subwoofer does the M.LINE need?

The M.LINE M90 and M120 full range modules are usable to down to 70Hz. The M.LINE MS1 augments the low and low-mid and provides a smooth transition into the lower spectrum, and can be added to the array as needed. To make a four-way system, recommended for high-output applications like ROCK, the McCauley CSM88 is an ideal match for a dedicated subwoofer to the M.LINE M90, M120 and MS1 modules.


What is THE HORIZONTAL COVERAGE OF THE M.LINE?

M90 modules are 90 degree horizontal, while M120 modules are 120 degrees. Mix them together in the same array to customize coverage... especially handy for covering front rows of the audience without deploying a separate front-fill / down-fill system..


What is the vertical dispersion of the M.LINE SERIES?

Vertical dispersion is completely array-dependant, as operators can set the splay angle to match the needs of the event. Free software is available to provide precise calculations of how many cells and in what configuration one would need for any particular event.


How ARE M.LINE MODULES wired?

The M90 and M120 use NL4 connectors, with MF1 & MF2 on pins 1, and HF on pins 2. The MS1 LF module also uses a NL4, with LF1 on pins 1 and LF2 on pins 2.



How much do M.LINE MODULES cost?

Specific pricing is not published online, but suffice it to say, M.LINE line array technology is positioned to be THE BEST VALUE IN COMPACT LINE ARRAY. Contact your MONARC team member for details of pricing and financing.

Are turn-key M.LINE systems available?

Yes. Complete turn-key packages, including amplification, processing, cabling, amp racks and M.LINE cells are available through McCauley Sound’s account specialists. Contact your McCauley team member for complete details on pricing and financing.

Is there a financing program available?

Several attractive financing options are available for qualified buyers. Contact a McCauley team member today to begin the application process.