1978

The Q1608 is the clearest statement of what feels newly foregrounded in the 1978 catalog. Rather than treating the mixer as a support product, Carvin places this expandable quad recording and road board at the very front of the book. With fully balanced inputs, parametric channel equalization, joystick quad panning, interrupt points, pink-noise testing, and optional MX16 expansion to 32 channels, the Q1608 makes 1978 feel more recording-oriented and more ambitious in signal control than the prior year’s presentation. It is one of the strongest indicators that Carvin is now presenting itself not just as a maker of amps and speaker cabinets, but as a builder of complete professional production systems.

• 16-channel quad mixer expandable to 32 channels with MX16
• 3-band parametric EQ per channel
• joystick quad panning and bypassable joystick routing
• balanced XLR I/O and multichannel recording interrupt points
• pink-noise generator, talkback, cue and monitor facilities
• strongest “new year” statement versus the 1977 lineup

Because the previous year already leaned heavily on larger-format live sound, the S1800 works well as a 1978 highlight by showing how Carvin broadens that approach into a practical stereo console for both recording and road use. It brings 18 balanced input channels, dual 10-band graphic equalizers, stereo panning, built-in Hammond reverb, talkback, and headphone monitoring into a more portable package than the flagship quad desk. It is a strong bridge product between small powered mixers and the Q1608-class production board.

• 18 balanced input channels
• dual 10-band graphic EQ
• built-in Hammond reverb and talkback
• stereo monitoring and roadworthy cabinet format
• strong live/recording crossover product

The SYSTEM 10 is one of the best complete-system highlights in the 1978 book because it ties together the catalog’s biggest themes: expandable console control, bi-amp-capable reinforcement, horn-loaded JBL loudspeakers, and turnkey concert deployment. Built around the Q1608 and ASG500, it translates the catalog’s technical messaging into a complete installed or touring system concept. This is where the 1978 catalog most clearly shows Carvin’s ability to sell not just components but an entire professional signal path.

• complete large-format sound system
• passive stereo or monaural bi-amped operation
• scalable to 32 channels in related variants
• flagship packaged concert solution
• strongest full-system expression of the 1978 catalog

The PS950 is a compact, full-range loudspeaker system designed to deliver balanced performance across bass, midrange, and high frequencies in a single enclosure. Positioned as a practical solution for smaller PA systems and instrument reinforcement, it combines horn loading and multi-driver design to achieve clarity and projection without requiring large-format cabinets.

• 3-way speaker system for full-range sound reproduction
• 15" MagnaLab woofer for solid low-frequency response
• Heppner midrange horn for vocal and instrument clarity
• Motorola piezo tweeter for high-frequency extension
• Horn-loaded cabinet design for improved efficiency and projection
• Integrated crossover network (XC-800) for frequency separation
• Compact format suitable for club and small-stage applications
• Can be paired with larger systems for expanded coverage

The SV250 is a dedicated monitor power amplifier designed to provide clean, reliable power for stage monitoring systems. Built to support Carvin’s modular monitor configurations, it delivers consistent output with the control and connectivity needed for live performance environments.

• Dual-channel power amplifier for monitor system use
• Designed to drive multiple stage monitor speakers
• Balanced XLR inputs for clean signal integration
• Optimized for monitor applications rather than full-range PA
• Compact and rack-compatible format
• Reliable output suited for continuous stage use
• Commonly paired with M770 and JBL monitor systems
• Integral component in packaged monitor systems (e.g., JBL Monitor 4)