Tech Focus: Audio Monitoring, Part 2 — Speaker Options for Road Warriors

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

CLICK HERE for Tech Focus: Audio Monitoring, Part 1 — Small Speakers, Big Sound Is the Mantra in Remote Production

JBL
The first in JBL’s new 7 Series line, the 705i and 708i models answer the call for next-generation multichannel monitoring in postproduction rooms and broadcast facilities and trucks. Leveraging patented technologies developed for the 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, 705i and 708i are the heart of a scalable system for broadcast and post facilities working in immersive audio formats. www.harman.com/EN-US/Solutions/Harmanbrands/Pages/JBLProfessional.aspx

Blue Sky
Blue Sky’s monitoring system, comprising its SAT 6D speakers and SUB 12D subwoofer with new 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 bi-amplified SAT 6D features state-of-the-art A/D and D/A convertors with USB calibration input. Each satellite speaker uses 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. www.abluesky.com

Genelec’s ultra-compact 7040A subwoofer measures 16.1 x 13.8 x 8.1 in.

Genelec
The Genelec 8330A and new 8340A SAM compact studio monitors feature the company’s MDE and DCW technologies, flow-optimized reflex ports, high SPL, and wide uncolored response in compact enclosures. The new Loudspeaker Manager (GLM 2.0) control network and software allow adjustments of all aspects of monitor settings and full system control. AutoCal automatically aligns every monitor on the network for level, timing, and equalization of room response anomalies. The 8330A is the monitoring solution for challenging room acoustics in TV and outside broadcasting. The 8340A is suitable for larger spaces. www.genelec.com

Meyer Sound
The self-powered Meyer Sound HD-1 audio monitor is designed for precise near-field monitoring. The HD-1 yields broad directivity with a generous sweet spot. Patented circuitry minimizes time delays and deviations from linear phase. The THX-approved HD-1 incorporates an active crossover with optimized pole-zero filters for acoustical transparency and a flat frequency response. It delivers a high peak SPL with a dynamic range of more than 100 dB and extremely low distortion. www.meyersound.com

Neumann
Neumann’s KH 120 near-field studio monitor has a Mathematically Modeled Dispersion (MMD) waveguide, 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, launched last year. Neumann also offers the KH 310 three-way active tri-amplified monitor with MMD, flexible acoustical controls, various input options, and an extensive range of mounting hardware. The KH 310 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. www.neumannusa.com