12 minute read
PRODUCT GUIDE
from MONDO-DR 33.1
PRODUCT GUIDE: AMPS & PROCESSORS
APEX Cloudpower
APEX’s CloudPower is a family of remotely managed four channel Class-D amplifiers with integral DSP. Four CloudPower models have been released to date, ranging from the 4 x 350W CP354 to the 4 x 3000W CP3004, all of which are shipping now. CloudPower can drive low impedance and 70/100v speakers, offering a solution for applications scaling from hotels to stadiums. Early installations have focused on performing arts centres, sports and fitness venues, houses of worship and higher education facilities. The amplifiers can be deployed standalone or networked and all models are housed in a slimline 1U chassis. CloudPower is compatible with the UDP protocol, permitting integration with industry-standard control systems such as AMX and Crestron. CloudPower incorporates a Wi-Fi hotspot and is complemented by the IntelliCloud WebUI. As a browserbased application, IntelliCloud can be accessed from any device (iOS, Windows, Android) without the need to download any software. Multiple users can view and adjust the system simultaneously from different devices. All settings are stored in the cloud, giving access to real-time information. IntelliCloud provides an at-a-glance overview of all connected CloudPower devices, helping users to keep track of several amplifiers at once. Global device presets can be saved and uploaded, speeding up the process of configuring multiple amplifiers as well as enabling easy backups. IntelliCloud has won praise for its linear, logical interface, offering straightforward access to a 10-input matrix for each amp channel as well as gain, delay, PEQ, X-over and limiter parameters. CloudPower’s integral signal generator and speaker preset tools can also be used from the WebUI. Having comprehensive remote control over the amplifiers is an immense time saver for integrators, allowing them to troubleshoot and make everyday adjustments without the need for site visits and taking the legwork out of setup in larger venues. There is also scope to offer clients ongoing value-added remote monitoring services. CloudPower amplifiers are founded on APEX’s proprietary GlidePath architecture, with DSP and amplifier circuits fully integrated for outstanding performance. GlidePath employs DC coupling throughout the signal path, dramatically reducing the time offsets and distortion associated with AC coupling. Thanks to GlidePath, CloudPower amplifiers deliver crisper, punchier bass and brighter, more natural high frequencies, and superior intelligibility. GlidePath’s ultra-precise reproduction of high transients manages speaker cone excursion, consistently delivering higher output under a short initial impulse and significantly reducing trail output after the signal stops in head-to-head tests against mainstream Class-D amplifiers. This control over cone excursion results in less distortion, higher perceived volume and reduced mechanical wear on speakers. One of CloudPower’s ‘firsts’ is the inclusion of an integrated audio source and streaming capability, allowing easy playback of background music from devices running Spotify or AirPlay, reducing the need for additional hardware and enabling BYOD applications. CloudPower accommodates mains voltages of 100-240VAC, allowing it to serve worldwide. Active Power Factor Correction ensures efficient use of the mains power system. The idle power draw of a CP354 or CP704 amplifier is just 17 Watts, saving money and energy compared to regular install amp designs. In addition to their remote-control capability, all CloudPower amplifiers have a daylight visible OLED display and touch ‘n turn rotary encoder, giving the option of hands-on setup and day-to-day operation. CloudPower amplifiers are proudly designed and made in Belgium. APEX has supported the rollout of CloudPower with a series of firmware updates. The latest release, V1.2.1, contains a dozen new and refined features inspired by feedback from integrators and end users.
www.apex-audio.be
Amate Audio TPD3K
Over 35 years ago, Amate Audio introduced its original ‘TriPhonic’ 2.1 power amplifier design, an integrated L/R & sub solution for small sound installations. its TPD series revives the concept with a Class-D based design and onboard DSP loudspeaker management, reducing cabling and complexity. The new TPD3K is a higher power-rated iteration of the rack-space saving concept, delivering more than 3,000W of combined power, with up to 750W continuous program power each left and right channel, and 2,000W for a sub (at 4 Ω). On-board DSP offers the powerful performance advantage of the company’s active self-powered loudspeaker systems for passive installations. Remote PC based configuration via a front panel USB port enables control and passwordlock of the unit with intuitive DSPLink software. Adjustable parameters include accurate filters, parametric EQs, Peak / RMS limiters, and delays enabling timealignment of the amplifier channels. Additionally, Amate Audio R&D’d presets provide optimum system configuration for a range of Amate Audio speaker models. A total of six discrete DSP channels comprise one for each amplifier channel and three AUX, assignable on balanced XLR outputs. The TPD3K’s power and performance premium comes with no increase in the 2U 19in rack form-factor and at 9kg, just 1kg of additional weight.
www.amateaudio.com
d&b audiotechnik 5D Amplifier
The 5D installation amplifier is a four channel DS amp featuring integrated audio networking and flexible output power sharing — all within an ultra-compact design. The 5D features a high-density form factor, with a 1 RU 9.5in footprint. The amplifier is the perfect size to drive smaller loudspeakers and can be mounted under tables or ceilings as well as in a rack, allowing d&b to serve a greater number of installations – no matter the size or needs of the venue. The 5D is the first d&b amplifier with integrated Dante networking. This feature allows for flexible system configuration changes and convenient deployment of decentralised system designs ensuring that a d&b system will provide the scalability, flexibility and reliability needed for today’s installations. The 5D amplifier improves the affordability of a d&b system, opening up d&b technology to more projects around the world, both small and large.
www.dbaudio.com
Alcons Audio has developed the Sentinel amplified loudspeaker controllers to drive every Alcons system and get the absolute maximum performance out of the pro-ribbon systems. With a powerful four-channel DPS-based controller with Class-D amplifier stages, the four individually addressable inputs accept analogue or up to 192 kHz digital AES3 signals, that are up/down sampled to 96 kHz by the custom high-end sample rate converters. The future-upgradable powerful DSP engine enables minimal latency during the processing of even the most complex (IIR, FIR) algorithms. On-board features, controllable through the full-colour touch-screen, include 6-band (shelf/pass/parametric) equalising per channel, delay, factory presets for all systems and system configurations, user presets, event logging, and system feedback. Extended functionalities are included in ALControl the Sentinel remote-control application. The four patent-pending Class-D amplifier stages are 93% efficient and offer one of the lowest THD in the industry. Together with the two (redundant) switch-mode power supplies, the Sentinel3 delivers a total of 3,000W and the Sentinel10 delivers a total of 10,000W. The modular design makes for easy ‘in-the-field’ servicing and future upgradable hardware.
www.alconsaudio.com
HH Electronics M-Series Amplifiers
UK-based HH Electronics has launched its M-Series high power, 2U rack amplifiers. The Series is designed to provide maximum performance for demanding applications everywhere from bars, restaurants and clubs, to houses of worship, live music and education settings. There are three models available. The M-750D, M-1500D and M-2600D all draw on HH’s five decades of pioneering heritage in the field of amplifier design and development. Designed and engineered in the UK the Series boasts high quality, heavy duty toroidal power supply, robust chassis, ultra-reliable linear power stage, and comprehensive protection system.
www.hhelectronics.com
Lab-Gruppen D-Series Amplifiers
The Lab-Gruppen D-Series is a range of amplifiers with flexible output channels, Lake Digital Signal Processing, Onboard Biamp Tesira integration, Ethernet AVB audio networking and digital audio networking for installation applications. The D-Series power amplifiers are designed for installation, and comprise six models from 4,000W to 8,000W. The D-series is based on the same foundation of robust, highpower amplifier technologies as Lab-Gruppen renowned PLM Series – an amplifier platform with a proven record of reliability and sonic performance on the world’s most gruelling concert tours, and in high-profile, large-scale installations.
www.polar.uk.com
The LEA Professional Connect Series 1504 four-channel amp drives up to 1,500 watts per channel or two Smart Power Bridge channels at 3,000 watts. Available with or without Dante, the amp features advanced DSP that includes linear phase FIR filters and up to 4 seconds of delay. With three different methods of network connection, users can connect using the amplifier’s builtin Wi-Fi Access Point, connecting to an existing Wi-Fi network, or using a Local Area Network Ethernet connection. Unique to any other professional amplifier manufacturer, the new Connect Series models also leverage the built-in Amazon Web Services (AWS) IoT Core. This provides systems integrators with powerful, reliable and secure remote monitoring and control capabilities across their entire lineup of IoT-enabled amplifiers through the LEA Cloud.
www.leaprofessional.com
Meyer Sound’s Galileo GALAXY Network Platform harnesses open-source AVB technology to extend a new level of audio control in driving and aligning loudspeaker systems with multiple zones. GALAXY elevates the industry’s best processing tools by building on Galileo’s meticulously engineered algorithms to retain users’ favorite processing tools, including the patented five-band U-Shaping and parametric EQ. The GALAXY Network Platform is certified as fully compliant with the AVB-based, Milan deterministic network protocol, ensuring that GALAXY processors will offer seamless interoperability with all other Milan-certified devices in the signal chain, regardless of function or manufacturer. With second-to-none sound performance, Galileo GALAXY provides a powerful toolset for corrective equalisation and creative fine-tuning, in a full range of applications from touring to cinema. It represents a new generation of FPGA-based processing with up to 64-bit resolution, delivering increased dynamic range, a lower noise floor, and super-low latency of 0.6ms analog in to analog out. GALAXY lets you work smarter and quicker, whether it’s reconfiguring network audio routing, expanding the system, or integrating with AVB-capable network infrastructure. All audio and control data pass through one single network cable.
www.meyersound.com
LEA Professional Connect Series 1504
Meyer Sound Galileo GALAXY Network Platform Linea Research 88C20
The 88C20 from Linea Research is the flagship of Linea Research’s installation-focused C Series range of networked DSP amplifiers. C Series amplifiers are available in 4 and 8 channel variants with power ratings from 400W to 2500W per channel. The 8 channel 88C20 offers up to 2500W per channel into 4 ohm loads for a total output power of 20kW. Advanced 96kHz DSP offers input routing and mixing, input and output equalization, FIR filters on every output, crossovers with traditional and linear phase topologies, multiband output limiting with VX virtual crossovers, and third-party control integration. For networked audio applications, C Series amplifiers are also available with Dante / AES67 connectivity. Linea Research products are designed and manufactured in the UK.
www.linea-research.co.uk
NEXO NXAMP4x4 MK2
Available in 4 X 1,300W, 4 X 2,500W and 4 X 4,500W versions, the NXAMP MK2 combines advanced signal processing with four state-of-the-art Class D amplifiers to create a flexible, light-weight powering and control solution for NEXO loudspeaker systems. Ideal for use in fixed installations and touring, these powered controllers are easy to set up and quick to deploy, with all essential parameters readily accessible via a large colour touchscreen on the front panel and a comprehensive range of control and networking facilities on the rear panel. Partnered with NEXO speakers, the new NXAMP MK2 delivers a whole new level of sound quality.
www.nexo-sa.com
Optimal Audio SmartAmp
SmartAmp is a series of amplifiers with DSP, competitively priced for the commercial market, to accompany our loudspeaker and control offering. A core offering of three multichannel direct drive constant voltage amplifiers, with 30 DSP settings available for maximum performance from Optimal Audio loudspeakers. Flexible configuration makes SmartAmp the natural choice for installation projects. The range comprises: SmartAmp 10 (a 2 x 125W amplifier), SmartAmp 20 (a 4 x 125W amplifier), and SmartAmp 30 (a 4 x 250 amplifier), all with integral DSP.
www.optimal-audio.co.uk
Q-SYS Core 610
The Q-SYS Core 610 represents the next generation of Q-SYS processing, pairing the Q-SYS OS with an enterprise-grade Dell COTS server to deliver a flexible and scalable AV&C solution for a vast range of larger-scale applications. This fully networked processor lets you centralise processing for multiple spaces or zones while distributing network I/O where it’s most convenient. Q-SYS + Dell: In partnership with Dell, Q-SYS deployed the full-featured, software-based foundation of the Q-SYS OS on an industry-tested Dell server to deliver a uniquely flexible and scalable AV&C solution. Like the rest of the Q-SYS processing portfolio, the Core 610 offers a configurable audio DSP, a full-featured control engine and network-based video switching in a single processor, greatly simplifying system design and deployment. The Core 610 is a fully-networked AV&C processor, providing the flexibility to centralise the location of the processor and even use it across multiple rooms, and then position your desired I/O (either native Q-SYS Products or third-party devices) closer to the endpoints, resulting in a more streamlined system topology. Additionally, leveraging the network makes deploying the same room type across buildings or campuses simpler and more cost-effective. Q-SYS Scaling and Feature licences let you tailor system capabilities to your specific application through simple firmware updates.
www.qsys.com
Powersoft Mezzo
Mezzo packs the same levels of clarity, reliability and build quality you would expect from any Powersoft install amplifier into a half-rack unit form factor. Scaled down in form, but not in substance, Mezzo features a state-of-the-art DSP and comes in two power sizes (320W and 600W), with two or four channels of output. Power sharing allows the user to send the entirety of the available power to a single channel at almost any load. All Mezzo models offer multiple analogue input options, with the two-channel versions also featuring line-level outputs. AD versions of Mezzo add audio networking capabilities with Dante/AES67 and an internal Gigabit Ethernet switch with a second port so that multiple products can share the same network. The smaller versions of Mezzo are sealed designs perfect for hidden placement, such as mounted above the ceiling or tucked in a wall box. The included rack-mounting accessories allow multiple options: one or two Mezzo in a 19in rack, or one Mezzo in an 11in rack. The included wall-mount brackets allow it to be mounted on any flat surface, as well as under a table or in the ceiling. Rubber feet also allow Mezzo to be placed on a shelf.
www.powersoft.com
