Meyer Sound Announces First Application of In-Loudspeaker Digital Processing
New RMS-Controlled Remote Attenuation And Digital Delay Module Cost Effectively Adds Unprecedented Versatility to Self Powered Loudspeakers

BERKELEY, CA (October 6, 2000) - A soon-to-be-released upgrade of Meyer Sound's RMS™ (Remote Monitoring System) software will be accompanied by the introduction of two new optional modules that will enable remote setting of on-board attenuators and digital delays in individual self-powered loudspeakers. These new RMS-controllable features will be made available on UPM-P and UPA-P Series products from the first quarter of 2001, marking a development which will significantly enhance the flexibility and utility of Meyer Sound systems in a wide variety of applications.

Remote Attenuation
The remote attenuation option will be implemented via a new looping or active summing input module that will contain the necessary motorized potentiometer. A new version of the separate RMS module will include the necessary firmware and hardware required for remote attenuation via the network. The attenuation level is truly "mirrored" by the potentiometer and the RMS software. If the attenuation setting is altered manually while the network is off-line, the new setting will be automatically detected and read back into the RMS database as soon as the network is re-booted. The system can be set to default to a preset, or to the last read attenuator position. Additionally the RMS software can be set to retain the attenuation setting/s. These features will mitigate the effects of any "off-line" tampering.

The RMS-controlled attenuation module provides a range of -18dB to 0dB, with a set point accuracy of ± 0.5dB. Remote level changes take place at a rate of 3dB per second. Though control is digital the attenuator itself is analog, so level changes are free from awkward sounding steps or zipper noise thus providing optimal sonic results.

On-board Digital Delay
The optional delay module will mark the first introduction of a digital circuit internal to a Meyer Sound self-powered loudspeaker cabinet. Concerns about the quality and available headroom of earlier digital circuits have raised questions about permanent installation of digital processing, but the introduction of new 24-bit/96kHz sampling converters assures a level of performance consistent with Meyer Sound's long-standing and stringent performance standards.

The digital delay option will be implemented by installation of a new control card and the upgraded RMS module. Delay is set via the network only, using a panel in the new V4.0 RMS software. The digital circuit can be engaged or bypassed via RMS control. When bypassed the signal path remains entirely analog. When the delay is activated, an LED illuminates on the loudspeaker's RMS module to indicate delay is in use. The settings are stored in non-volatile memory onboard the loudspeaker, and are therefore recalled when the unit is turned off and on.

For the new delay option, preliminary specifications call for a real S/N ratio of >100dB with 24-bit digital resolution. Sampling rate is software selectable at 96kHz for demanding applications, or at 48kHz for less critical uses. Maximum delay times are 700ms at 48kHz or 350ms at 96kHz.

Significant Advantages Realized
With RMS control of on-board attenuation and delay, installers and operators of Meyer Sound systems will have access to new tools that will speed system calibration, enhance overall system performance and ensure greater reliability. With all functions already specifically tailored to the system, both installation time and user calibration errors are greatly reduced. In many cases, equipment costs will be reduced as well, as there will be no instances of "left over" unused channels in delay units or matrix mixers. Also, by using a laptop computer equipped with a wireless LAN connection, system operators can access RMS options for real time remote adjustments of level and delay from various locations around a large venue. Finally, the snapshot system memories will allow instant resetting of levels in multi-use facilities, and also will allow A-V system operators who frequently set up the same portable systems in the same venues (e.g. for corporate presentations) to easily and reliably recall delay and attenuation settings.

Remote attenuation and delay will be offered first on UPM-P and UPA-P Series products with production and delivery of the new modules commencing in the first quarter of 2001.

Back to Corporate News Directory