HK Audio Sound Caddy One

The speaker top extends out of the enclosure for setup, eliminating the need for additional speaker cables between the top and subwoofer. The active HK Audio Sound Caddy One combines a line-source top and subwoofer with an integrated four-channel mixer and a 600-watt Class D power amplifier in a mobile PA system.

Six vertically arranged 3.5-inch full-range speakers in the top and three 6-inch woofers in the subwoofer cover the specified frequency range of 49 Hz to 18 kHz at ±3 dB. The 70° x 15° dispersion is designed for directional sound distribution. The top extends pneumatically and can then be adjusted in height and locked in place. Allow at least one metre of clearance above the enclosure; according to the operating instructions, the distance to the first listener should be at least two metres.

The mixer is divided into two mono channels and two stereo channels. Mic In accepts a microphone via a balanced XLR/jack combo socket; the Tone control is designed for speech applications. The second mono channel also features a balanced XLR/jack input and is suitable for a microphone or instrument, such as a guitar with a pickup. Both channels have separate volume controls.

The Line-In stereo channel has two XLR/jack combo sockets for connecting a keyboard, CD player or external mixer, for example. The Contour control changes the sound by boosting the bass and treble and reducing the midrange. The Aux-In stereo channel has RCA inputs for left and right, as well as a 3.5 mm stereo jack. The RCA and 3.5 mm inputs cannot be used at the same time: as soon as one is occupied, the other is muted.

Use the balanced XLR Line Out to send the mixed signal to another SOUNDCADDY ONE or another active speaker. The Line Out switch determines whether the signal is output in mono or split into left and right channels for stereo operation with a second system. A stereo Rec Out with RCA connectors sends the signal to a recorder or computer. You can reduce the bass separately; at the leftmost setting, the control reduces it by up to 10 dB. A status LED indicates operation, limiter activity or faults.

Wheels, recessed handles and edge protection make transport easier; the included protective cover protects the system on the move. According to the operating instructions, it must be secured lying down when transported in a vehicle to prevent the mechanism of the extendable top from being triggered unintentionally. For mobile speech and music playback, the system is suited to presentations, performances and small events where a mixer, amplification and speakers are needed in one unit.