In its standard 50° x 70° dispersion configuration it provides a precisely defined coverage area on stage. The M4 can optionally be operated in 2-way active mode by changing the d&b D12 amplifier's configuration without any modifications to the loudspeaker. For its compact dimension and mere 20kg (44lb) it produces 138 or 140dB SPL, when driven in passive or active mode respectively.
The latest firmware for the d&b D12 and E-PAC amplifiers now contains the tricks mentioned above, a dedicated MAX configuration for passive operation of MAX or MAX12 cabinets. The "linear" configuration is also still available to drive loudspeakers from other ranges. The new MAX configuration has a high pass filter, low-end equalization and an excursion limiter specially tuned for the MAX loudspeakers, this provides increased headroom and improved low frequency performance. The characteristic of the D12 amplifier MAX 2-way active configuration has also been modified to provide a similar performance enhancement.
Full details of the d&b audiotechnik monitor range may be found, along with the latest firmware for the D12 and E-PAC amplifiers, at the d&b website.
(Lee Baldock)