LD Systems’ Stinger G3 Series: The Nissan Micra of Portable PAs?
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There are so many standard black boxes to choose from if you’re looking for a portable PA solution. Here’s a new one to add to your list: the third generation of LD Systems’ Stinger Series, the Stinger G3’s. There is a time and a place for a straightforward cabinet design and sensible feature set, and that’s what LD Systems are offering here. However, priced just above the equivalent Mackie solution and with a cool name, you’d have thought there would have been something intriguing or different about these. The name, however, looks like this range’s stand-out feature.
LD Systems Stinger G3 Series PA Speakers
There’s something to be said for a product delivering exactly what you expect. For example, the Nissan Micra is a middle-ground, small car with nothing particularly interesting to write home about. However, thanks to its specification, price point and feature set, we don’t expect it to deliver any thrills. At the same time, this is why it’s such a popular and reliable little motor. I get the impression the Stinger G3 Series follows the same set of considerations.
Often when new speakers or monitors are announced, there is a new feature which tries to set the brand apart from their rivals. It could be unique cabinet build, new driver design or significant DSP processing for example. While the Stinger G3 claims improvements in its third generation, there’s nothing unusual or ground-breaking here. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, of course, at least they tick all the basic expectations from a touring PA. With plywood enclosures and a tough coating, they certainly look a little more professional than the typical black plastic solutions.
The new series is quite extensive, with both active and passive variants of 8″, 10″, 12″ and 15″ top boxes and 15″ and 18″ subwoofers. All the modern expectations are included, such as 500W RMS Class D amps in the active models (800W RMS in the subwoofers), mounting points and an assortment of accessories. The units feature a fairly common DSP feature set for today, with all the usual crossover, driver alignment and protection features. The top boxes also offer 4 operating modes; flat, fullrange, satellite or floor monitor. The DSP in the subwoofers offer a convenient setting for arranging 3 in a cardioid set up.
More Information
As an example, the 15″ active top box in this range, called ‘Stinger 15 A G3’, has a recommended retail price of 789 EUR. For a complete list of prices and more information, check out the Stinger G3 Series webpage.
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