Tech Focus: Remote Audio Monitoring, Part 2 — A Look at What’s Available

It may be 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
Blue Sky’s monitoring system, comprising its SAT 6.2D speakers and SUB 12D subwoofer with new digital Bass Management Controller (BMC), is designed to deliver pristine, accurate, full-range near-field monitoring configurable in 2.1, 5.1, and larger for broadcast surround sound. 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 and 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 8030B is a bi-amplified near-field monitor system suited for 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, as well as various mounting options.

The 8020C is an ultra-compact bi-amplified near-field monitor system suited for broadcast–surround-sound monitoring and OB-truck applications. 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 8020C also features the advanced Genelec Directivity Controlled Waveguide (DCW), flow-optimized reflex port design, and numerous mounting options. www.genelec.com

JBL Professional
The LSR2300 Series includes the LSR2328P bi-amplified (8-in.) studio monitor, with 165 W of amplification; the LSR2325P bi-amplified (5-in.) studio monitor, with 90 W; and the LSR2310SP powered (10-in.) studio subwoofer, with an integrated 180-W power amplifier. They can be controlled with JBL’s MSC1 monitor-system controller, which combines essential 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.

The first studio-monitor line to incorporate JBL’s patent-pending Image Control Waveguide, the new JBL 3 Series comprises two powered models: the 5-in. LSR305 and the 8-in. LSR308. The LSR305 boasts a response of 43 Hz-24 kHz and a peak SPL of 108 dB; the LSR308, a response of 37 Hz-24 kHz and a peak SPL of 112 dB. In addition, the LSR310S subwoofer extends the low-frequency response of the system into the 20-Hz range. www.jblpro.com

Meyer Sound
The self-powered HD-1 audio monitor is designed for precise near-field applications. Optimized to approximate a point-source radiator, it 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 active near-field monitor is 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 each 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 and minimize 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