d&b audiotechnik has announced the launch of two new products, the B22 subwoofer update and the DS10 audio network bridge.
The B22 multipurpose omnidirectional subwoofer is an update on the B2-SUB, which was launched over 20 years ago in 1994. The new B22-SUB houses two 18in neodymium drivers in an efficient bandpass horn design producing high SPL and an extended frequency response. It is intended for ground stacked applications and is designed to deliver increased performance, a modern appearance and improved internal cabinet bracing.
The B22-SUB is the largest d&b omnidirectional subwoofer, but when used in multiples of three and in CSA mode (Cardioid Subwoofer Array), exhibit impressive rear rejection. To increase flexibility, the B22-SUB can also be operated in INFRA mode, which extends the frequency response to supplement other d&b subwoofers. When used as an infrabass system, the B22-SUB performs down to 32Hz, with an upper operating range of 68Hz, compared to the standard mode, which operates from 37Hz to 90Hz.
d&b product manager Marcus Bäumler commented: “Demand for the B2 has been constant since it’s launch in 1994, but cabinet design and modelling has come a long way since then. The B22-SUB exploits the high output power of the d&b D80 amplifier to the full. It has familiar B2 characteristics, but with higher performance and a modern twist.”
The DS10 audio network bridge represents an advance in the d&b system approach and has been designed specifically for d&b amplifiers. It provides 16 AES3 output channels via the Dante audio transport protocol through Ethernet, four AES3 input channels and an integrated five port network switch.
Using the DS10, multiple channels can be sent from the console to the amplifiers using a single network cable. At the amplifiers, the DS10 distributes the audio signals to the AES3 inputs within the d&b amplifiers. The DS10 sends meta data information, such as Dante channel labels and cabling information via the AES3 channel stream to the latest generation of d&b amplifiers for simplified routing and troubleshooting.
In addition, four AES3 input channels enable use as a Dante break-in from a FoH console. Additionally, the DS10 offers a ‘Bypass’ mode, which allows operation as an AES3 splitter, directly distributing the four AES3 input channels to all AES3 outputs.
“d&b is now even further up the signal chain, straight from the console with all the signal processing carried out within the d&b amplifiers. Remote control data and audio can now be sent to the d&b amplifiers via the DS10, which guarantees simplicity in operation and flexibility in use,“ explained Vicent Perales, d&b product manager. “This flexible 1 RU device really opens up the functionality of the d&b amplifiers, and enables seamless interoperability of Dante enabled devices with d&b systems.”
