The new d&b audiotechnik XSL line array system encompasses all the comprehensive features of its SL bloodline, from outstanding broadband directivity control and extended low frequency performance, to comprehensive rigging, cabling and transportation. XSL’s extra small dimensions bring the SL-Series feature set - 2-way active design, high SPL and impressive cardioid low frequency performance - to a huge range of installations and events. And of course, the company designed installation specific and mobile touring variants to accommodate all market requirements and ease inventory for distributors and integrators.
The XSLi models for permanent installations, are ideally suited to venues with a high dependency on the clarity of spoken word, together with the need for high power, full spectrum performance. The XSL mobile version addresses the needs of the broadest range of touring applications. Both XSL and XSLi can be deployed as a stand-alone, self-contained package, or as a delay, or fill system to accompany d&b's larger GSL and KSL systems.
The new streamlined sound reinforcement system also fits seamlessly into the valued d&b Workflow. "The performance-to-size ratio of the XSL System is unlike anything available in the current sound reinforcement market, or within the d&b portfolio," says Werner ‘Vier’ Bayer, d&b Product Manager. “For installation, the system's broadband directivity control drastically improves the ratio of direct to reverberant sound in acoustically critical spaces. In short, it will clean up your room! For mobile, a small footprint and improved sonic performance are really valuable. It’s an enormous step, it’s really impressive.”
Continuing d&b’s fixation with directivity, XSL delivers cardioid performance across the full frequency spectrum, resulting in: reduced audio spill onto open mics on stage; improved clarity and impact of individual instruments; and less coloration of mid range build up in venues and on broadcast and recording feeds. Less spill from the main PA to the stage, and backstage, improves the creative experience for performers, while giving more control to monitor engineers, particularly in the mid to low frequencies.
The line array elements (39kg - 86 lbs each) can be configured precisely with splay angle settings from 0 to 14 degrees in 1 degree increments and feature 2x 8” front LF drivers, 2x 6.5” side facing LF drivers, one 6.5” MF driver/horn unit, and 2x 1” exit compression drivers with 2” coil on a waveguide, per element. As a system powered with the company's own D40 amplifiers, d&b specifies an impressive SPL level responding from 60Hz to 18kHz.
XSL loudspeakers achieve broadband directivity using patented SL-Series cardioid techniques to control low frequency dispersion. With 80 and 120 degree dispersion patterns, the XSL System’s excellent sonic performance and clarity is achieved with this unique pattern control and enhanced further with d&b Enabling technologies including d&b ArrayProcessing.
“Going into the design of this product we were actually a bit skeptical about whether we could achieve the signature SL-Series directivity performance in such a compact format. We’re really thrilled, slightly stunned and very proud that it works so well. I truly believe that the sound quality, dispersion, and clarity delivered by XSL will spearhead the evolution that we all expect from smaller arrays in the future," states Matthias Christner, Head of R&D Acoustics at d&b.
The d&b amplifier family, including the 40D installation and D40 mobile amplifiers, have been designed to deliver the power density required for high efficiency d&b systems. The four channel Class D 40D/D40 devices come with advanced voltage management to bring up to 50% power draw efficiency to the d&b range - with zero compromise in performance. d&b amplifiers do more than drive d&b loudspeakers: they realize the full potential of the d&b system approach.
The XSLi installation systems, along with the installation specific 40D amplifier, will begin shipping in October 2021. The mobile XSL package will begin shipping in January 2022. The company will be also supply Special Version Stadium (SVS) rigging when specified and will offer custom solutions including Sea Water Resistant (SWR) variants.
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