ORLANDO – Outline showcased its iMode Intelligent Digital Loudspeaker Control Platform at InfoComm 2011. Conforming to Outline’s concept, “from console to enclosures in just one step,” iMode technology embeds a Linux-based CPU – with integrated DSP chip, parameter control software and web server – into its powered speaker systems, streamlining setup and control by eliminating the outboard gear between the console and power amplifier.
Tom Bensen, senior vice-president and managing director of Outline North America, said Outline goes beyond “simply adding a DSP chip to the integrated power amplifier.” Instead, Outline has “essentially put the computer in the speaker cabinet itself. This allows a user to tune a speaker through any Internet-capable computer, including iPhone and iPad-type smart devices. The entire concept of iMode eliminates reliance on a string of outboard signal processing equipment and external power amplifiers, as the audio signal comes to the speaker cabinet directly from the mixing console.”
Designed to streamline installation and simplify engineering chores, iMode promises to bring the programming capabilities and control of an external computer into the heart of Outline’s compact and lightweight self-powered speaker systems. Through the use of advanced digital signal processing (DSP) and a built-in web server with CGI, Java and other web technologies embeded, users can control the sound system via any standard web browser (no special software required), just as one would navigate a website. With standard IP-based communication, the iMode platform is controllable via netbook, smartphone and any Internet-savvy device.
iMode operates on a Linux operating system with an Outline-customized kernel. Audio conversion is done at 24-bit/192 kHz resolution. Users have real-time control over a series of parameters, including levels, delay, EQ and shelving filters. iMode also allows the user to monitor performance parameters throughout the system, including VU-meters, selected preset parameters, clip and limiter status, amplifier overheating and protection.
These parameters can be accessed by using an iPad with a dedicated Outline software app, or via any standard web browser on any Internet capable device.
For more information, please visit www.outline.it.
