In this age of technology convergence, laptops double as DVD players, video-phones, multi-track recorders and audio analyzers, while cell phones have evolved into Internet-capable computers with thousands of applications. Loudspeaker control and monitoring is also converging. The old modular console-graphic-crossover-amp-speaker systems built from components are merging to become simply consoles and loudspeakers, shedding their outboard racks along the way. The logic is simple: If amplifiers have become computer-driven remote-controlled DSP platforms, why not combine amplifier, computer, DSP, Internet Protocol and Web server into a unified system embedded in the speaker cabinet, streamlining every aspect of transport, setup and operation for smaller sound systems?
Outline's answer to that question comes in the form of its iMode Intelligent Digital Loudspeaker Control Platform, featured in the company's Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. self-powered line arrays and iSM self-powered floor monitors. The basic idea is to go "from console to enclosures in just one step."
iMode
Outline's iMode amplifier modules are light in weight as well as compact enough to be housed within the loudspeaker. Through remote programming and control of Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. and iSM enclosures, iMode also simplifies set-up and operation. iMode uses an imbedded Linux operating system with an Outline-customized kernel, with 24-bit/192-kHz resolution audio conversion.
Engineers access iMode's internal DSP functions via most recent Web browsers, and Outline has also introduced a Mini-COMP.A.S.S. iPad app, letting engineers roam from the mixing console location and fine-tune the system from anywhere in the venue.
Along with the ability to remotely adjust settings for levels, delay, parametric EQ and shelving filters, iMode lets users monitor VU-meters, selected preset parameters and clip and limiter status, along with amplifier temperature and protection. They can also maximize phase linearity and ensure even horizontal coverage across all frequencies. iMode uses both FIR and IIR filters with a resolution of up to 64 bits.
Mini-COM.P.A.S.S.
The COMpact Polar Adjustable Sound System (Mini-COM.P.A.S.S.) is a self-powered, bi-amped line array. It uses two 1.75-inch compression drivers and four five-inch midwoofers to deliver a peak SPL of 141 dB at one meter with four enclosures. The cabinets provide a frequency range of 100 to 20,000 Hz. As its name suggests, its dimensions are compact, and the units, including flying hardware, weigh in at 53 lbs.
Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. features asymmetrically adjustable horizontal directivity using a pair of Outline's Double Parabolic Reflective Wave Guides (DPRWG), a technology Outline first patented for its Butterfly line array systems. The coverage angle can be manually set between 60 to 150 degrees in steps of 15 degrees, giving engineers 16 combinations of horizontal coverage (including asymmetric ones) to direct sonic energy where needed. Movable Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. "wings" help users avoid wall reflections and make other changes in coverage. Embedded sensors inform iMode's DSP as to the position of each cabinet's wings, allowing for automatic corrections in on-axis response.
iSM: iMode Stage Monitors
The iSM Series consists of three compact wedge designs: iSM 212, iSM 115 and iSM 112. As with the Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. line arrays, each cabinet is equipped with Outline's iMode module, allowing for parameter control via a Web browser. LEDs on both sides of each cabinet provide visual indication of the main parameters or selected presets. Cabinets are fitted with mounting points for wheels or flying rings and recessed handles.
The cabinets are sturdy, non-resonant and made from void-free Baltic birch. Well-suited to any monitoring application, iSM delivers a linear response of +/- 3 dB from 76 to 15,500 Hz, and a linear phase response of ± 45 degrees from 500 to 16,000 Hz.
The patented folded wave-guide provides tight, consistent control of the highs, with well-defined pattern control that maximizes gain before feedback. It also keeps the iSM sightline-friendly. Cabinet dimensions are less than 13 inches in height.
Streamlined Setup
iMode's Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. and iSM promise significant benefits for sound companies servicing corporate, convention and concert events in smaller venues, streamlining every aspect of transport, setup, system tuning and AC power distribution, thanks to the efficiency of the iMode modules, which deliver equivalent SPL with less power draw.
Technicians setting up MiniCOM.P.A.S.S. simply place their console and runs two wires for stereo analog, or a single wire with an AES digital signal at up to 24-bit/192-kHz resolution. Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. or iSM cabinets can be daisy-chained using either analog or digital audio signals and addressed through Ethernet to access iMode DSP. Cabinet recognition is through Apple's Bonjour (Zeroconf), which automatically assign addresses, resolves naming and discovers services for local networks.
Because they can now control their system with an iPad2 using a wireless Ethernet connection while standing in front of the cabinet (and musician), rather than from the side of the stage behind the monitor console, mixing engineers can now easily tackle system tech responsibilities.
For engineers who need to mix monitors from FOH in dual-mode console operation, there's the further advantage of being able control both mains and monitors from the same application while simultaneously running both. That can help smaller crews deliver an audio experience for smaller events with a level of quality that rivals what you might expect from a large team of dedicated technicians at a much larger show or event.
