Tech Focus: Audio Monitoring, Part 2 — Truck Environment Requires Robust, Full-Range Speakers

Here’s a look at options currently available

It’s a narrow niche in the diverse universe of monitor speakers, but monitoring inside truck audio environments calls for a robust, full-range speaker solution. Here are the market leaders.

Blue Sky SAT 6D speaker

Blue Sky
Blue Sky’s monitoring system, comprising SAT 6D speakers and SUB 12D subwoofer with analog/digital Audio Management Controller (AMC), delivers pristine, accurate, full-range near-field monitoring configurable in 2.1, 5., and larger for broadcast surround-sound applications. Each 450-W, biamplified SAT 6D uses state-of-the-art A/D and D/A convertors with USB calibration input. Each satellite speaker features a 6.5-in. woofer with a radial magnet structure and 1-in. Scan Speak ring radiator tweeter. The SUB 12D woofer features a single long-excursion 12-in. woofer and a 600-W low-distortion power amplifier with state-of-the-art A/D and D/A, and USB calibration. Blue Sky’s AMC provides analog and digital inputs with SRO speaker calibration, selectable presets, and solo and mute switches with level control. http://www.abluesky.com

Genelec’s new The Ones Series of compact coaxial monitors

Genelec
The 8331 and 8341 Smart Active Monitors, part of Genelec’s recently introduced The Ones Series, are the world’s smallest three-way compact coaxial monitors. A breakthrough coaxial-driver design provides extremely accurate imaging and improved sound quality, with crystal-clear accuracy, both on- and off-axis and vertically as well as horizontally. Aesthetically striking is the absence of visible woofers, which are concealed beneath the Directivity Controlled Waveguide (DCW). The intuitive Genelec Loudspeaker Manager (GLM 3.0) control network and software allows adjustments of all aspects of monitor settings and full system control. Genelec AutoCal automatically aligns every monitor on the network for level, timing, and equalization of room response anomalies. The 8331 is the monitoring solution for challenging room acoustics in TV and remote production. The 8341 is suitable for larger spaces. www.genelec.com

JBL 705P and 708P models of the 7 Series line of monitors

JBL
The first in the 7 Series line of monitors, the 705P and 708P (powered) models answer the call for next-generation multichannel monitoring in postproduction rooms, broadcast facilities, and trucks. Leveraging patented technologies developed for the company’s flagship M2 Master Reference Monitor, 7 Series products deliver detailed imaging, extended frequency response, and remarkable output from compact enclosures. Centrally amplified and tuned and easily installed, 705P and 708P are the heart of an elegant, scalable system for broadcast and postproduction facilities working in immersive audio formats. They are available now in both powered and passive models and offer tight integration with the new Intonato 24 Monitor Management Tuning System. www.harman.com

Meyer Sound Amie precision studio monitor

Meyer Sound
The Amie precision studio monitor is a compact, self-powered loudspeaker designed for accurate, controlled audio reproduction in smaller production environments. A highly linear system, Amie provides uncolored response regardless of output levels. Extremely low distortion enables extended working hours without operator ear fatigue, and an integrated constant-directivity horn yields focused coverage in over-console applications. Amie incorporates a 6.5-in. long-excursion cone driver, a 1-in. silk-infused dome tweeter, and a two-channel Class D amplifier with sophisticated signal processing. www.meyersound.com

Neumann
The KH 120 near-field studio monitor has a Mathematically Modeled Dispersion waveguide (MMD), flexible acoustical controls, analog Class AB amplifiers, a large-headroom analog input, and an extensive range of mounting hardware. It is also available in a digital version, the KH 120 D.

Neumann KH 120 near-field studio monitor

The KH 310 three-way active tri-amplified monitor also offers MMD, flexible acoustical controls, various input options, and an extensive range of mounting hardware. It is designed for use as a near-field monitor, as a front loudspeaker in midsize multichannel systems, or as a rear loudspeaker in a larger multichannel system.

The KH 80 DSP two-way active biamplified monitor features a DSP engine with network control, MMD, an analog input, and an extensive range of mounting hardware. This allows the loudspeaker to be used in diverse acoustical conditions, with any source equipment, and in a wide variety of physical locations. The KH 80 represents the latest in acoustic and electronic simulation and measurement technologies to ensure the most accurate sound reproduction possible. The KH 80 DSP is designed for use as a near-field monitor, as a front loudspeaker in small multichannel systems, or as a rear loudspeaker in compact multichannel systems. www.neumannusa.com

Click here for Tech Focus: Audio Monitoring, Part 1 — Speakers Are Smaller, Lighter, and Proliferating

Click here for Tech Focus: Audio Monitoring, Part 3 — Room-Correction Software Aims To Optimize the Environment