BST HELIOS2.1 - 2.1 Active Line Array System (18" Subwoofer + 8 Modular Satellites) - 900 W RMS
The BST HELIOS2.1 has established itself as a benchmark in the professional portable sound reinforcement market, offering a hybrid solution that merges the raw power of large-format systems with the flexibility of mobile equipment. This 2.1 active PA system is distinguished by its authentic Modular Line Array architecture. Unlike fixed, one-piece columns, the HELIOS2.1 allows the user to physically configure the sound dispersion using independent modules, guaranteeing precise and uniform acoustic coverage in any type of venue, from conference rooms to outdoor events.
The cornerstone of this system is its impressive 18-inch (46 cm) subwoofer . While many competitors in the portable sector opt for 10- or 12-inch cones, BST has integrated a large-caliber transducer capable of moving a significant mass of air. This component is housed in a bass-reflex enclosure made of reinforced, high-density MDF . The choice of wood over ABS plastic is not merely aesthetic; it provides structural rigidity that eliminates unwanted vibrations and parasitic resonances, resulting in deep, warm bass with a physical "punch" that you can feel in your chest, reaching low frequencies with undeniable authority.
In terms of amplification, the system utilizes the superior sound quality of Class A/B technology . The integrated 3-channel module intelligently manages power, delivering 500 W RMS dedicated exclusively to the subwoofer and two independent 200 W RMS channels for the satellite speakers, for a total real power output of 900 W RMS . This configuration ensures that, even at high volumes, distortion remains minimal and the music's dynamics are preserved intact.
The mid and high frequency section is where the HELIOS2.1 demonstrates its technical versatility. The system includes a total of eight modular passive satellites (four for the left channel and four for the right). Each of these modules houses two 4-inch midrange drivers and a 1-inch dome tweeter, for a total of 16 midrange drivers and 8 tweeters across the entire system. Thanks to the included hardware and brackets, it's possible to curve the array's splaying to optimize vertical projection, preventing acoustic reflections off ceilings and floors and focusing the sound energy on the audience. Furthermore, its connectivity is comprehensive: from professional XLR and Combo Jack inputs for mixing consoles to an integrated media player with Bluetooth, USB, and FM radio for standalone applications.
Main features
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Real Modular Architecture: System composed of 8 independent satellite boxes that allow adjusting the curvature of the array for controlled vertical directivity, similar to professional touring systems.
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18 Inch Wooden Subwoofer: Large format enclosure built in MDF that offers superior bass response and natural resonance unattainable for plastic boxes.
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High Fidelity Amplification: 3-channel Class A/B power stage that prioritizes warmth and sound quality, delivering a total of 900 W RMS with ample headroom.
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High Density Driver Configuration: A total of 24 speakers in the satellites (16 midrange + 8 tweeters) ensure crystal clear vocal intelligibility and constant sound pressure at a distance.
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Advanced Control Panel: Includes analog DSP management with crossover frequency adjustment (Crossover 40-200 Hz), phase inverter and independent volumes for the sub and satellites.
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Multimedia and Pro Connectivity: Balanced inputs for use with external consoles and digital player module (Bluetooth, SD, USB) for direct playback of background music.
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Touring Grade Finish: High-strength textured black acrylic paint coating, designed to withstand rigorous road use and constant transport.
Benefits for the user
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Sound with Physical Presence: Thanks to the 18" cone, DJs and bands get a room-filling bass response without the need for additional external subwoofers.
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Space Adaptability: The ability to orient the satellite modules allows the sound to be "aimed" exactly where it is needed, improving the listening experience in venues with complicated acoustics.
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Professional Image: The black wood design with robust metal grilles offers an elegant and serious aesthetic, ideal for corporate events, high-level weddings, or presentations where image is crucial.
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All-in-One Assembly: The package includes absolutely everything you need: tripods, support bars, interconnect cables and remote control, eliminating the need for additional purchases.
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Source Versatility: It can function as the main system for a band connected to a table, or as a standalone device to play a Spotify playlist via Bluetooth at a social event.
Use cases
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Live Orchestras and Bands: Perfect for groups that need to clearly amplify vocals, guitars, and keyboards, while maintaining a powerful rhythmic foundation thanks to the 18" subwoofer.
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Event and Wedding DJs: Offers the clean aesthetics of a column but with the bass performance of a conventional system, ideal for medium and large sized dance floors.
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Auditoriums and Small Theaters: The line array projection ensures that the last rows hear with the same clarity as the first, making it excellent for conferences and official events.
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Sound Rental: Robust and reliable equipment that adapts to multiple types of clients, from private parties to corporate events, guaranteeing a quick return on investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is the modular system difficult to assemble?
No, the system is very intuitive. The satellite modules are stacked and secured using the included hardware. Electrical connection between them is made via short Speakon cables (jumpers) included in the kit, facilitating a quick and clean setup.
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Can I use just the subwoofer without the satellites?
The amplifier is integrated into the subwoofer. While you could technically power it on without connecting the satellites, the system is designed to work together (2.1) to cover the entire frequency range. The internal crossover divides the frequencies for each speaker.
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What advantage does MDF wood have over plastic?
Wood has superior acoustic properties; it is denser and more rigid, preventing the cabinet from vibrating and "stealing" energy from the speaker. This results in a cleaner sound, with more defined bass and less artificial coloration in the audio.
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Is the system stereo or mono?
It's a 2.1 stereo system. The amplifier processes the stereo signal (Left/Right) for the satellites, while summing the low frequencies from both channels to send them to the subwoofer (mono sum), which is the standard in professional sound systems.
Project description
Portable active 2.1 line array sound reinforcement system with variable modular architecture. The system consists of an 18-inch (46 cm) active subwoofer in an MDF bass reflex enclosure and two line arrays, each composed of eight passive satellite modules (four per channel). Each satellite module incorporates two 4-inch midrange woofers and one 1-inch tweeter. The integrated amplification is Class A/B with a total power output of 900 W RMS (500 W subwoofer + 2 x 200 W satellites). The system offers a frequency range of 50 Hz to 20 kHz with a sensitivity of 96 dB (subwoofer) and 93 dB (satellites). It includes analog processing with a variable crossover (40-200 Hz), phase inverter, and limiter. It features a multimedia player (USB/SD/BT/FM) and an input mixer with XLR/Jack combo and RCA connectors. The finish is a durable black acrylic lacquer. The supply includes 2 tripods, array flying bars, Speakon interconnect cabling and remote control.
