d&b unveils new compact cardioid line array

Forming the first product in the new CL Series, the CCL System (Compact Cardioid Line Array) has been unveiled by d&b audiotechnik. The system provides broadband directivity control with low frequency cardioid behaviour in a passive design, enabling single channel amplifier operation, said to be an industry first in the compact line array category. The CCL features a revised implementation of a patented d&b design to bring the cardioid directivity and electroacoustic performance formerly only available in d&b SL Series models to smaller, closer audience areas and a broader range of customers.

“d&b audiotechnik remains at the forefront of cardioid loudspeaker system design,” said Santiago Alcalá Baillie, product manager loudspeakers at d&b audiotechnik. "With the CCL we're responding to market demand for a compact, lightweight system that brings the unparalleled benefits of cardioid technology to a broader spectrum of applications, making our flagship technical solutions accessible to a wider range of installations and events.”

At the heart of the system are two 7-inch front-firing drivers, two 5-inch side and rear drivers and two 1.75-inch high-frequency transducers of a completely new design. This approach combines low-frequency and broadband directivity control with high-frequency headroom and minimal distortion, unmatched by anything else on the market according to the manufacturer.

Designed to reduce system infrastructure complexity and cost, the CCL requires minimal logistic and implementation efforts. With a lightweight, compact form factor, it utilises less truck space and fewer amplification and cabling resources in mobile applications. In installed scenarios, the cardioid low frequency behaviour improves the perceived sound quality in both indoor and outdoor venues, while the sleek design integrates into any space.

The CCL follows d&b's traditional approach and will be available in both mobile (CCL) and installed (CCLi) configurations, as well as 80° (CCL8) and 120° (CCL12) horizontal dispersion versions. Its contained dimensions (209mm x 593mm x 355mm) and light weight (18kg) make it aneasy-to-rig solution for corporate rental, regional tours, festivals and larger events, where it can complement SL Series arrays as side- or in-fills. For permanent installations, the CCL System excels in theatres, auditoriums, houses of worship and acoustically challenging spaces such as sports arenas or reverberant rooms.

Complementing the system is the new CCL-SUB, a flyable subwoofer available in both mobile and install versions. The passive cardioid design features a front 15-inch and a rear 10-inch driver configuration. The CCL-SUB offers reduced port noise and extended usable bandwidth, particularly when deployed in mixed arrays with the CCL System.