LD Systems MAUI 28 – Test Report by voicecouncil.com

Can this portable PA system hold its own against the competition?

At A Glance: LD Systems’ Maui 28 is a portable PA system that is designed for musicians and DJs performing in smaller venues. It is a compact system that combines a PA and monitor so that both the public and the musician can have a satisfactory listening experience. The system can be assembled in a matter of seconds and multiple units can be used together if needed.

High Notes: The Maui 28 uses an array configuration to ensure greater coverage with a well-balanced sound when compared to traditional style PA speakers. This is great for singers who want their vocals to project clearly even in the furthest corners of a venue. Setting up the system is quick and simple and it does not take up much room on stage. Its wide dispersion and excellent feedback resistance means that you can perform without a separate vocal monitor if you prefer by placing the system in a position where both you and your audience can hear equally well.

Off Pitch: Due to the arrangement of the speakers (the signal is split into four frequecy bands that all go to seperate drivers), the sound is more even from a slight distance than it is close up (as the highest frequencies come out of the top speakers and the lowest out of the bottom). Also the Maui 28 does not have the onboard mixing facilities offered by some similar systems such as the HK Audio SoundCaddy One, Bose L1 and the Fishmann SA220.

A VoiceCouncil Reviewer Says: The system does face some stiff competition, however the Maui 28 costs quite a bit less than similar systems from Bose and HK Audio, which will no doubt make it appeal to many potential customers. Its 400 watts of power is enough for small to medium sized venues and it is impressively resistant to microphone feedback. It is a shame that LD decided not to include a basic mixer on the device or a dedicated microphone-in channel as you will need to use a mixing desk with it at all times. All in all, it is a well designed system that will particularly appeal to singers performing solo with guitar or in an acoustic or jazz ensemble who want good sound quality in a small package.

Manufacturer’s Website: http://www.ld-systems.com/1-1-home.html

Source: www.voicecouncil.com – Great Britain, March 2012.

Further information at: http://www.ld-systems.com/370-1-ld-maui-28.html