Audio-Monitoring Options for Remote-Broadcast Trucks

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

Blue Sky
Comprising SAT 6.2D speakers and SUB 12D subwoofer with new digital Bass Management Controller (BMC), Blue Sky’s monitoring system is designed to deliver pristine, accurate, full-range near-field monitoring configurable in 2.1, 5.1, and larger for broadcast surround-sound applications. Each 500-W, bi-amplified SAT 6.2 features state-of-the-art A/D and D/A convertors with USB calibration input. Each satellite speaker has 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, a 500-W low-distortion power amplifier with state-of-the-art A/D and D/A, and USB calibration. Blue Sky’s BMC provides analog and digital inputs with USB calibration and level control. www.abluesky.com

Genelec
The 8030A bi-amplified near-field monitor system is suited to broadcast surround-sound monitoring. Its MDE (Minimum Diffraction Enclosure) has rounded edges and a gently curved front and sides to achieve a smooth frequency response and accurate imaging qualities with minimized cabinet-edge diffraction. The 8030A also features the advanced Genelec Directivity Controlled Waveguide (DCW) flow-optimized reflex port design. www.genelec.com

JBL Professional
The LSR2300 Series features the LSR2328P bi-amplified (8-in.) studio monitor with 165 W of amplification, the LSR2325P bi-amplified (5-in.) studio monitor with 90 W of amplification, and the LSR2310SP powered (10-in.) studio subwoofer with an integrated 180-W power amplifier. The monitors can be controlled with JBL’s MSC1 controller, which combines essential monitor-system controls found in the monitor section of large mixing consoles with JBL’s RMC Room Mode Correction technology, which tunes speakers to compensate for low-frequency problems in the room. www.jblpro.com

Meyer Sound
The self-powered HD-1 audio monitor is designed for precise near-field monitoring. Optimized to approximate a point-source radiator, the HD-1 yields broad directivity with a generous “sweet spot.” Its 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 over 100 dB, with extremely low distortion. www.meyersound.com

Neumann
The KH 310 A is an active near-field monitor suited for use as a front loudspeaker in medium-size surround systems or as a rear loudspeaker for larger multichannel systems. The drivers, all developed by Neumann, have been adapted to one another using acoustic simulations and an extensive series of measurements. A long-throw bass driver ensures low distortion even at high sound-pressure levels. The mid frequencies essential for speech and vocals are reproduced precisely by a dedicated mid-range driver. High frequencies are handled by an alloy-fabric dome in an elliptical Mathematically Modeled Dispersion (MMD) waveguide. The result is a transparent reproduction with a wide usable listening area while minimizing reflections in the vertical plane. Thanks to a sealed cabinet and acoustic controls for bass, low-mid, and high frequencies, the KH 310 A is also a problem-solver for acoustically challenging spaces, such as smaller project and postproduction studios and OB vans. www.neumannusa.com