Powersoft has announced the launch of DC Rider, a DC-powered amplifier platform designed specifically for the demands of visitor attractions. Purpose-built to handle the challenging conditions of theme park rides and other high-vibration environments, DC Rider gives designers the ability to incorporate onboard nearfield audio into rollercoasters, dark rides and other amusements. Powersoft says it “frees creatives from the constraints posed by traditional point-source audio solutions”.
Available in both eight and 16 channel versions, DC Rider combines an ultra-compact design and light weight (1.5kg) with the functionalities found in other Powersoft amplifier platforms, including built-in DSP, AES67 compatibility, and power-sharing capabilities that allow it to drive subwoofers, loudspeakers and haptic transducers (such as Powersoft’s Mover).
Tom Bland, solutions engineer at Powersoft, said: “DC Rider addresses the attractions industry’s need for reliable, high-quality audio solutions capable of withstanding the mechanical stresses and spatial constraints of rides like rollercoasters. Historically, attraction designers were typically constrained by the need to place audio equipment at fixed points around a track, or utilise equipment from the automotive and marine industries to try to make a highly customised solution reliable in a theme park environment.”
He added: “By contrast, DC Rider is specifically designed for this market – meaning no more ‘adhesive and hope’ to stop trim pots moving, or phono connectors in high-vibration environments. DC Rider’s enhanced heat dissipation capabilities and tiny dimensions means it can be placed even in the most space- and weight-sensitive of projects. By providing a consistent, uninterrupted audio experience throughout the ride DC Rider invites guests to suspend their sense of disbelief and offers new possibilities for immersive audio effects in visitor experiences.”
Powersoft says DC Rider has been engineered to automotive standards for vibration resistance and operates in extreme conditions, including high-vibration and outdoor environments. The company says its integrated DSP provides full audio signal control, including channel EQ, filtering and delay management, eliminating the need for external processors, while its AES67 audio-over-IP networking capabilities ensure connectivity across complex installations and set-ups. The new amplifier platform also offers advanced daisy-chaining support.
Thomas Howie, business development manager for Powersoft, said: “By creating a dedicated, reliable amplifier solution for onboard audio for visitor attractions, Powersoft is unleashing designers’ creativity and paving the way for a new wave of immersive experiences in amusement parks worldwide.”
