First up on the who's who list of must-haves for all d&b users is Venue Editor in the d&b ArrayCalc simulation software. Responding to feedback, the new software update allows users to create virtual venues with astonishing accuracy: every curve and little nuance of a space can be reproduced along balconies or obstacles that need to be considered.
Leeds is the first public outing in the UK for the eagerly anticipated D80 amplifier. In conjunction with ArrayCalc and the latest version or R1 Remote control software V2, the D80 represents the culmination of a long development programme. A slimmer visual appearance belies the increase in power (4000 Watts per channel), increase in amplifier channels with individual inputs (4), two 16-band parametric equalisers per channel and the inclusion of PFC (Power Factor Correction), which maintains optimal performance when running from any heavily loaded mains supply. All that with weight and power savings thrown in for good measure.
Slinky design and sophistication go hand in hand with a farther addition to the d&b product range; the xC-Series column loudspeakers deliver high levels of speech intelligibility in the most challenging acoustic environments. Without compromising aesthetics, the 24C is a two-way passive column loudspeaker containing six LF and six HF drivers, all driven by a single amplifier channel. Such a simple explanation overlooks the subtlety of the unique directivity control this Series employs to focus the audio output into something also worth hearing.
As always, visitors can find d&b nestled comfortably adjacent to the bar in The New Dock Hall. Oran Burns, from d&b Education and Application Support will also be occupying the Bury Theatre on Tuesday and the Wellington Room on Wednesday to deliver Sound System Fundamentals with his customary combination of wit and expertise. Oran invites you to take a fresh look at the basics of acoustics and sound system principles through practical experimentation and demonstration. To book a place at these ever popular sessions visit: plasafocus.com/leeds/seminars.
Just remember to check under your seat for Boris the Spider.
(Jim Evans)
