TEST: RCF 932-A

 Italy, the second. This is how, or something similar, you could actually start this review if you look at the current product range of the Italian manufacturer RCF, as far as active full-range speakers are concerned. With the RCF ART 932-A, the traditional company is preparing to make its mark in the already highly competitive area up to approx. 2 KW peak. Let's see how "Forza Italia" fares with this product from the area of ​​active full-range speakers.

Structure and concept of the RCF ART 932-A

As with its little sister, the RCF HD 10-A MK5, if you look closely you will notice the production location of the product. In contrast to the now almost all-encompassing supply chain, "Developed in home country, assembled in China", a proud "Made in Italy" lettering is also emblazoned on the housing. How much the entire world is now dependent on the Asian world power can once again be seen very clearly in the partially empty shelves in various industries. Even if some of the components inside the RCF ART 932-A come from China, there should be fewer problems with this product, at least when it comes to delivery from the factory to the customer.

The RCF ART 932-A takes no risks when it comes to application and, like many of its competitors, tries to cover several sound options thanks to its asymmetrical housing shape, which increases the product's application area immensely. The possible applications range from small PA to sidefill to typical wedge operation, although with the latter you should be aware that the stability is significantly lower than with a pure wedge. Be warned against the typical "big pants foot on wedge" - there are few actions that look more ridiculous on stage than slipping on a floor monitor during a big pose. The system also has M10 thread inserts on the top and bottom, or side panels of the housing, for flown fixed installations. The box has a robust 36 mm steel flange on the bottom for use with a stand.

With dimensions (H x W x D): 642 mm x 370 mm x 363 mm, the box is in the middle segment in terms of transportability and, with its weight of 18.8 kg, can still be easily carried by a single person. The housing of the RCF ART 932-A is made of polypropylene, which, with a combination of comparatively low weight and good elasticity, should absorb both internal vibrations and rougher external influences well. For better protection, you can also purchase an appropriate protective cover, which I personally can only recommend if the visual appearance of your equipment is important to you. Scratched boxes always leave a bad taste in your mouth when it comes to paying after the show.

Two grip slots on the top/bottom of the housing and two generous grip recesses on the sides ensure good handling and easy transport, which not only increase carrying comfort, but also make it much easier to balance on a high stand.

The loudspeaker equipment consists of a 12" woofer made in-house and a 1.4" tweeter, which together can deliver 1050 watts peak, i.e. around 500 watts sine, and for those who love numbers, boast 2100 watts peak. The frequency response of the system is specified as 50 Hz - 20000 Hz, the sound pressure is 132 dB (Max SPL @ 1m), the horizontal radiation angle is 100°, the vertical radiation angle is 60°. The crossover frequency is 700 Hz, which is relatively low due to the comparatively large tweeter. As a special feature, the manufacturer also refers to the new filter technology called "Firphase" in this version, which, according to the company brochure, ensures "a transparent sound, absolute clarity and a perfect stereo image with minimal latency without phase distortion".

The back

As with many other representatives of this type, all connections are on the back of the housing, although RCF has also reduced the operating options to a minimum and transferred the entire sound signal management to a mixer connected in front of it. The advantage of a spartan equipment is always that even inexperienced users cannot cause major damage in the event of a mismatch. The disadvantage, however, is that experienced users have to make almost all frequency-related settings via an external console, which offers significantly more sound options, but also requires a minimum level of technical know-how.

All controls are installed very deep in the housing and are therefore very well protected from external influences, provided they are in flat contact with the panel. In contrast to its little sister, the only control present, the master volume control, sits comparatively firmly in its socket despite the lack of a counter on the housing, which offers a much better feel.

An XLR / TRS combo input socket, combined with the aforementioned volume control, serve the user as input management. In addition, a push button enables a rough pre-selection of the applied signal level, consisting of the presets "Linear", "Boost" and "Stage", the respective activation of which can be read off via 2 green LEDs. Unfortunately, there is no gain control, so you should keep an eye on the overload displays in the master area when outputting the signal via the mixer. The system also offers an XLR out for daisy chain operation. The system status can also be read off via 2 LEDs (signal - green and limiter - red).

Finally, in the lower part of the housing below the cooling fins of the system, there is the on/off switch plus the cold device socket and the internally installed main fuse. The system does not have a multi-voltage power supply and is approved for either 220 - 240 volts or 100 - 120 volts mains voltage. The values ​​of the fine fuses used behave accordingly differently.

The RCF ART 932-A in practice

Like other active speakers before it, the RCF ART 932-A was subjected to my standard test routine for flexible full-range speakers, i.e. operation as a floor monitor in the studio, high-stand operation indoors and high-stand operation outdoors up to a distance of 50 meters. Even from the first notes, it is noticeable that the system provides a very high sound pressure for a 12-inch woofer combination. The speaker sounds very powerful, but this is also due to the fact that the speaker leaves a lot to be desired in the real deep bass range and specializes more in very good low-mid reproduction. I would therefore still use an additional subwoofer for real "physicality" in bass reproduction.

What is particularly noticeable, however, is the comparatively very high level that the RCF ART 932-A can generate when required. The aforementioned 500 watts sine offer a very strong assertiveness, especially in a closed room, especially since the onset of saturation or the activation of the protective devices are protected with a very high headroom. In the open field, the sound naturally spreads out much more, but you still get a good definition of the signal and good intelligibility in the direct radiation angle, which at 100 degrees horizontally is somewhat wider than average.

As already mentioned, the RCF ART 932-A is designed for operation with a corresponding mixer, which controls the system's catch-up amplifier accordingly in terms of level. You can connect a microphone or an external device directly to the system, but in this case you will lose a lot of performance, as this is a clear mismatch. Most users will probably set the volume control to the right and generate the final volume with the master controls on the console. If the volume is limited accordingly, for example within a fixed installation, you can turn the master down accordingly.

In terms of sound, the system impresses with very stable playback, which is tonally very balanced without any unpleasant peaks until shortly before the limiter is activated. Overall, the system has to be given a very good rating, including a high level of flexibility in terms of its area of ​​application, especially in relation to its reasonable price despite being manufactured in Europe.

Conclusion

With the RCF ART 932-A, the Italian manufacturer has a very good-sounding full-range speaker with very stable headroom in its range. The system is very flexible in terms of its use due to its trapezoidal shape and impresses with a neutral basic sound, which offers a very high level including decent sound pressure when required. If you are looking for a powerful, powerful and very good sounding speaker and the use of an external console is part of your workflow anyway, you should definitely try out this speaker.

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Additional Informations:

RCF Audio is an esteemed name in the professional audio industry, renowned for its innovative technology and high-quality audio equipment. With a history spanning several decades, RCF has consistently delivered products that cater to a wide range of applications, from live concerts and theaters to studios and commercial installations. This article delves into the origins, evolution, and technological advancements of RCF Audio, highlighting its significant contributions to the world of sound.

## History and Evolution

### Early Years

RCF Audio was founded in 1949 in Reggio Emilia, Italy, by a group of audio engineers and enthusiasts. The company initially focused on producing transducers, primarily loudspeakers and microphones. These early products set the stage for RCF's commitment to sound quality and innovation. During the 1950s and 1960s, RCF established itself as a key player in the European audio market, supplying components to other manufacturers and building its reputation for reliability and performance.

### Expansion and Innovation

The 1970s and 1980s marked a period of significant growth and innovation for RCF. The company expanded its product line to include a variety of audio solutions, such as amplifiers, mixers, and complete sound systems. This expansion was driven by a commitment to research and development, which led to several groundbreaking products. One notable innovation was the development of the first 18-inch woofer, which set a new standard for low-frequency performance in professional audio systems.

### Global Recognition

By the 1990s, RCF had achieved global recognition, with its products being used in high-profile venues and events worldwide. The company's dedication to quality and innovation was evident in its introduction of advanced technologies such as neodymium magnets and carbon fiber cones. These advancements allowed for lighter, more efficient speakers that could deliver superior sound quality and higher power handling.

### Modern Era

In the 21st century, RCF has continued to push the boundaries of audio technology. The company has embraced digital technology, incorporating it into its products to offer enhanced performance and greater flexibility. RCF's commitment to sustainability is also noteworthy, as the company strives to minimize its environmental impact through energy-efficient manufacturing processes and eco-friendly materials.

## Product Range

RCF Audio offers a comprehensive range of products designed to meet the needs of various audio applications. These products are categorized into several key areas:

### Loudspeakers

RCF's loudspeakers are renowned for their exceptional sound quality and durability. The company offers a wide range of models, from compact portable speakers to large-scale line arrays. Notable product lines include:

- **ART Series**: These active speakers are designed for versatility and ease of use, making them ideal for both live performances and installed sound systems. The ART series features high-performance transducers and advanced DSP (Digital Signal Processing) technology for precise sound reproduction.
- **EVOX Series**: This series of portable column speakers combines powerful performance with sleek design. The EVOX series is perfect for events where both aesthetics and audio quality are important.
- **HDL Series**: RCF's HDL line arrays are used in large venues and outdoor events, providing high SPL (Sound Pressure Level) and consistent coverage. These systems are known for their scalability and ease of deployment.

### Subwoofers

RCF subwoofers are designed to deliver deep, impactful bass. They complement the company's loudspeakers and are used in a variety of applications, from small clubs to large concert halls. The SUB series includes models with different configurations and power ratings to suit diverse requirements.

### Amplifiers

RCF amplifiers are built to provide reliable, high-quality power for audio systems. The company offers both analog and digital amplifiers, with features such as DSP control, network connectivity, and efficient power management. These amplifiers are designed to work seamlessly with RCF loudspeakers, ensuring optimal performance.

### Mixers

RCF mixers are engineered for ease of use and versatility. They cater to a wide range of applications, from small gigs to large-scale productions. The company's digital mixers feature advanced processing capabilities, intuitive interfaces, and robust construction, making them a popular choice among audio professionals.

### Portable Sound Systems

RCF's portable sound systems are designed for convenience and performance. These all-in-one solutions are ideal for musicians, DJs, and presenters who need a reliable and easy-to-use system on the go. The J Series and EVOX J Series are examples of RCF's commitment to portable audio excellence.

## Technological Innovations

RCF's success can be attributed to its relentless pursuit of technological innovation. The company's research and development efforts have led to several key advancements in audio technology:

### Neodymium Magnets

RCF was one of the pioneers in using neodymium magnets in loudspeaker design. These magnets are lighter and more powerful than traditional ferrite magnets, allowing for more efficient and compact speaker designs. Neodymium magnets also improve the overall sound quality by providing better control over the speaker's movement.

### Carbon Fiber Cones

RCF's use of carbon fiber cones has resulted in speakers that are both lightweight and rigid. This material enhances the speaker's performance by reducing distortion and improving transient response. Carbon fiber cones are also more durable than traditional paper cones, ensuring long-term reliability.

### Digital Signal Processing (DSP)

DSP technology has revolutionized the audio industry, and RCF has been at the forefront of this transformation. The company's DSP-enabled products offer precise control over various audio parameters, such as EQ, crossover, and delay. This allows for fine-tuning of the sound to match the specific requirements of different venues and applications.

### FiRPHASE Technology

One of RCF's notable innovations is FiRPHASE, a proprietary technology that improves the phase response of loudspeakers. FiRPHASE ensures that all frequencies are aligned in time, resulting in more coherent and natural sound reproduction. This technology is particularly beneficial in live sound applications, where clarity and intelligibility are paramount.

## Applications

RCF Audio products are used in a wide range of applications, reflecting the company's versatility and commitment to quality:

### Live Sound

RCF loudspeakers and amplifiers are a staple in live sound environments, from small clubs to large stadiums. The company's line array systems, such as the HDL Series, are renowned for their ability to deliver powerful, clear sound to large audiences. RCF's portable sound systems are also popular among musicians and DJs for their ease of use and reliability.

### Installed Sound

RCF provides solutions for installed sound in various venues, including theaters, houses of worship, conference centers, and retail spaces. The company's products are designed to blend seamlessly into the environment while delivering exceptional audio performance. RCF's wide range of loudspeakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers ensures that there is a suitable solution for any installation requirement.

### Studio Monitoring

RCF's studio monitors are used by audio professionals for critical listening and mixing. These monitors are designed to provide accurate, uncolored sound, allowing engineers to make precise adjustments to their recordings. The AYRA Series, for example, is known for its flat frequency response and detailed sound reproduction.

### Commercial Audio

RCF also caters to the commercial audio market, providing solutions for background music, paging, and public address systems. The company's commercial audio products are designed for reliability and ease of use, making them ideal for airports, shopping malls, and other public spaces.

## Commitment to Sustainability

RCF is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The company strives to minimize its environmental impact through various initiatives:

### Energy-Efficient Manufacturing

RCF has implemented energy-efficient manufacturing processes to reduce its carbon footprint. The company uses advanced technologies and practices to minimize energy consumption and waste during production.

### Eco-Friendly Materials

RCF is dedicated to using eco-friendly materials in its products. The company prioritizes the use of recyclable and sustainable materials whenever possible, contributing to a more sustainable audio industry.

### Product Longevity

RCF designs its products for longevity, ensuring that they provide reliable performance for many years. This approach not only reduces waste but also offers better value for customers, as they can depend on their RCF equipment for extended periods.

## Conclusion

RCF Audio's rich history, technological innovations, and diverse product range have established it as a leader in the professional audio industry. From its early days as a manufacturer of transducers to its current position as a global provider of comprehensive audio solutions, RCF has consistently demonstrated a commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. Whether it's for live sound, installed sound, studio monitoring, or commercial audio, RCF products continue to set the standard for excellence in the world of professional audio.