SpeakerCraft, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of custom installed loudspeakers, has announced a new speaker designed specifically for multiple-dwelling units. Dedicated to applications such as new-build apartment blocks and large historic houses that have been converted into flats, the MDU speaker addresses a number of challenges created by installations in these locations.
Sound transference into an adjoining unit, code restrictions that prevent cutting into the wall or ceiling surface or the use of concrete or brick in the construction process are all reasons that make a flush-mounted speaker unworkable. The SpeakerCraft MDU speaker has been designed to allow for great sound reproduction in these situations with an elegant and functional solution.
The ported cabinet houses a 4-inch woofer and a 3/4-inch dome tweeter that deliver a smooth and open sonic presentation. The speaker is mounted to the ceiling via a standard J-box or attached directly to the ceiling joist. The multi-pivot bracket allows the speaker to be aimed at the listening area from any position in the room.
While the driver for the new speaker has been a change in real-estate markets in the US, the innovation seems set for a warm reception in Europe, the Middle East and Asia, where proportionally more prople already live in apartments.
“Dealers are doing more work in multiple dwelling units as the real estate market has changed and many consumers cannot afford to, or, for any number of reasons, choose not to live in a freestanding home” says Dave Donald, SpeakerCraft’s VP of Marketing. “We wanted to give these people an opportunity to enjoy the same home entertainment experience as those in detached structures.”
