New from Electro-Voice for NAMM 2020 is an expansion of the brand’s iconic column speaker system series — EVOLVE — with the all-new Electro-Voice EVOLVE 30M. This new speaker system is a serious level up in performance and overall listening experience.
The EVOLVE 30M features an eight-channel digital mixer that sports studio-grade onboard effects, remote controls for any and all audio, and mixing and control functionality from the all-new Electro-Voice QuickSmart Mobile app (available in the Apple and Google Play Store). The app utilizes easy-to-use Bluetooth Low Energy (BTLE) connectivity for user-friendly monitoring and adjusting of parameters on up to six EVOLVE 30M systems at once. Yes, that’s right, up to six EVOLVE 30M systems simultaneously. This makes this lightweight product a perfect fit for both solo artists and larger group events — from solo acoustic coffee shop gigs to filling a dance hall for a live DJ set at a wedding, the EVOLVE 30M won’t break a sweat.
Electro-Voice EVOLVE 30M ()
In terms of the control panel of the speaker system, the EVOLVE 30M features Electro-Voice’s proprietary QuickSmart DSP, which lets users navigate the system parameters seamlessly via an LCD with a single-knob control or by using the QuickSmart Mobile app. The app’s functions include four presets for Music, Live, Speech, and Club, a three-band EQ system (Low, Mid, High), a seven-band graphic EQ in Mixer Mode, five user-programmable presets (Store and Recall settings), phantom power capabilities, visual monitors of the unit’s system limiter, input level controls/meters, and one master volume control to round everything out at the end of the gain structure.
Additionally, the EVOLVE 30M sports a full-range column array and six ultra-lightweight 2.8” neodymium drivers for 120 degrees of audio coverage. The array enclosure is comprised of a composite material and utilizes an ergonomic aluminum handle for easy transport. The 10” subwoofer is then housed in a 15 mm wooden enclosure with a “high-efficiency laminar-flow vent design,” the company says, which helps to keep the entire unit sturdy and performing at the highest level. Specifically, about the power and design of the unit, Electro-Voice stated in a press release: “A Class-D amplifier provides up to 1000 W of output power: 500 W to the subwoofer and 500 W to the column array. The speakers are protected by a black powder-coated 18-gauge steel grille. A white version will also be available in spring 2020.”
The EVOLVE 30M is clearly a feature-rich system that can handle just about any live audio situation thrown its way. With the ability to fill a room with high-quality sound and withstand the wear and tear of everyday use, all wrapped up in an extremely compact form-factor, the EVOLVE 30M is meant to get users up and running quickly and effectively, while doing its job flawlessly throughout the performance and then some. Electro-Voice has created a system with the EVOLVE 30M that has the potential to please both seasoned live sound engineers and solo artists just starting out.
Feature image via Electro-Voice
