Gear article
Turbosound iNSPIRE iP500 V2 Column PA System
The Turbosound iNSPIRE iP500 V2 is a portable, modular column PA system designed for bands, DJs, and public speakers. It features an integrated 8-inch subwoofer, six 2-inch neodymium drivers, and a digital mixer controlled via Bluetooth and iOS applications.
See live pricesOverview
The Turbosound iNSPIRE iP500 V2 is a high-performance, active column PA system designed for portability and ease of use. It follows the vertical line array format, which provides wide horizontal dispersion and consistent sound coverage across a venue. The system is marketed as a 'new breed' of PA, prioritising a small physical footprint without sacrificing audio fidelity.
Design and Components
The system architecture consists of two main parts: a base unit housing the 8-inch subwoofer and power electronics, and a vertical column containing six 2-inch neodymium drivers. Neodymium is utilised for these drivers to ensure a high power-to-weight ratio, contributing to the system's overall portability. The modular design allows for quick assembly without the need for external speaker stands or cables between the sub and the column.
Digital Control and DSP
A core feature of the iP500 V2 is its integrated Digital Signal Processing (DSP). This system includes factory presets tailored for different environments and applications, allowing users to quickly optimise the frequency response. Users can manage the system's mixing functions remotely via a dedicated iOS application, which enables sound adjustments from anywhere in the venue. Additionally, the system supports high-quality Bluetooth audio streaming for background music or backing tracks.
Sound Character
The iP500 V2 is engineered for accuracy across the entire frequency spectrum. The combination of an 8-inch low-frequency driver and the multiple 2-inch high-frequency drivers ensures that both deep bass and intricate treble details are preserved. The line array configuration helps in reducing the 'drop-off' in volume as listeners move further away from the source compared to traditional point-source speakers.
Target Audience
This system is specifically suited for:
- Solo Musicians and Small Bands: Providing a compact solution for monitoring and front-of-house sound.
- Mobile DJs: Offering a sleek aesthetic and easy transport for events.
- Public Speakers: Ensuring vocal clarity and simple setup in corporate or community environments.
Comparison to Alternatives
In the column PA market, the iP500 V2 competes with several other modular systems. Compared to larger units like the LD Systems MAUI 44 G2 or the RCF EVOX J11, the iP500 V2 is more compact and budget-friendly, though it offers a smaller subwoofer (8" vs 10" or 12"). It offers more advanced DSP and remote control features than entry-level systems like the SubZero P810. For users needing even more portability within the same ecosystem, the Turbosound iP300 serves as a smaller alternative, while the Electro-Voice Evolve 30M provides a similar feature set with expanded digital mixing capabilities.
Related gear
£1,250.00 ($1,588)LD Systems
LD Systems MAUI 28 G3 Column PA System White
£579.99 ($737)SubZero
SubZero P810 10" Bluetooth PA System with Mics and Stands
£269.99 ($343)SubZero
SubZero SZPA-612 250W 12" PA System with Stands
£1,490.00 ($1,892)RCF
RCF EVOX J11 Column PA System
£1,354.00 ($1,720)Electro-Voice
Electro-Voice Evolve 30M Column PA System White
£1,842.00 ($2,339)LD Systems
LD Systems MAUI 44 G2 Column PA System
£499.99 ($635)G4M
G4M Modular Column DSP PA System - Essential Bundle
£419.00 ($532)Turbosound
Turbosound iNSPIRE iP300 Column PA Speaker
Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary configuration of the Turbosound iP500 V2?
- The iP500 V2 is a column PA system featuring an 8-inch subwoofer base and a vertical array of six 2-inch neodymium drivers. This design provides a wide dispersion pattern and a compact physical profile.
- Can I control the mixer remotely?
- Yes, the system is compatible with a free iOS app. This allows you to adjust levels, EQ, and DSP settings from your mobile device anywhere in the room.
- Does the iP500 V2 support Bluetooth audio?
- Yes, it features integrated Bluetooth connectivity. This allows you to stream music directly from a smartphone or tablet without needing external cables.
- What kind of drivers are used in the column?
- The column uses six 2-inch drivers made with neodymium magnets. Neodymium is used because it is lightweight yet produces a strong magnetic field for efficient performance.
- Is a separate mixer required for this system?
- The iP500 V2 includes a built-in digital mixer with DSP presets. While you can use an external mixer, the internal system is sufficient for basic band, DJ, or speaking setups.
- How does the 'V2' version differ from the original?
- The V2 iteration includes updated firmware and refinements to the DSP and control interface. It maintains the core hardware of the original iNSPIRE series while improving user workflow.
- Is the iP500 V2 suitable for large outdoor festivals?
- No, it is designed for portability in smaller to medium-sized venues. For very large outdoor spaces, a larger line array or high-output system like the MAUI 44 G2 would be more appropriate.
- What size is the subwoofer driver?
- The iP500 V2 is equipped with an 8-inch high-excursion low-frequency driver. This provides a balance between bass response and ease of transport.
- Are there built-in EQ presets?
- Yes, the onboard DSP includes various presets to tailor the sound for different applications. These are designed to provide accurate sound across the frequency spectrum quickly.
- Can the system be used for public speaking?
- Yes, the iP500 V2 is specifically designed for public speakers. Its column array provides excellent vocal clarity and even coverage throughout a room.
- How much does the Turbosound iP500 V2 typically cost?
- The typical price range for the iP500 V2 is approximately GBP 585. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.
- How does this model compare to the Turbosound iP300?
- The iP500 V2 features a dedicated 8-inch subwoofer base for more low-end extension. The iP300 is a more compact, single-unit column speaker without the large separate sub base.
