In an introduction that dramatically resets expectations of what a professional-grade touring amplifier should deliver in terms of performance, processing, integration and ease of use, amplifier pioneer Crown Audio today introduced the new I-Tech HD Series amplifiers that have been meticulously engineered to advance every criteria by which an amplifier is judged. At its core, I-Tech HD features a new user-inspired DSP engine co-developed with BSS and Linear Phase FIR filters that offer unrivaled performance. Together with Crown’s Class-I amplifier technology; new software that makes I-Tech HD robust and very easy to configure; an industry-leading choice of input options including CobraNet and the all-new LevelMax™ limiters (Peak, Thermal and RMS), I-Tech HD is a stunning product of engineering R&D, more than 60 years of amplifier heritage and systematic user input from tour sound leaders in all markets.
“I-Tech HD, our new flagship amplifier, advances the state-of-the-art on no less than seven fronts,� said Mark Graham, President of Crown Audio. “A remarkable achievement in engineering, I-Tech HD Series is a destructive technology in the sense that it obsoletes all that came before it. It’s a worthy testament to Crown’s engineering team and the tour sound professionals around the world who helped with the development.�
Developed in conjunction with sister company BSS, the next generation OmniDriveHDâ„¢ DSP Engine at the heart of I-Tech HD is built on a new architecture specifically optimized for fast and efficient audio processing to provide tour and contracting professionals with a new platform for signal processing. The new FIREWALLâ„¢ FIR filter technology provides significantly improved midrange clarity and dramatically improved off-axis response. The OmniDriveHD reduces latency, safeguards sonic integrity and advances system reliability. AudioCore features 24- bit, 192 kHz A/D and D/A converters.
In yet another industry first, Crown Audio links the limiters in its new family of amplifiers: Crown’s innovative LevelMax limiter technology links the previously independent Peak, Thermal and RMS Limiters, enabling more effective, elegant protection of connected speakers while advancing system performance. LevelMax limiter actions are better informed for more effective, efficient results and minimal sonic degradation.
Crown I-Tech HD benefits from the software R&D firepower of Harman Professional’s System Development & Integration Group (SDIG) and is easily configured via HiQnet™ System Architect™ Software. The user interface has been completely redesigned. Managing large networks of amplifiers on the road has never been easier. System Architect mirrors the typical browser navigation interface to provide tour sound and contracting professionals with a familiar interface to access a host of power configuration and control functions. System Architect includes context-sensitive, alphanumeric keypads, which pop up automatically with relevant parameter units when a value or text entry box is selected with the stylus.
Further simplifying ease of use, Crown I-Tech HD Series features a road-warrior-inspired front panel USB slot for load and recall of amplifier settings. Chief engineers can simply hand pre-loaded USB keys to entry-level staff who can now quickly, cost-efficiently and accurately configure entire racks by inserting the correct key and pressing the load button. A patent-pending intuitive front panel work surface with LCD display provides fast and easy menu-based system setup and full amplifier diagnostics.
Crown Audio’s commitment to networking and interoperability goes beyond the USB slot. I-Tech HD boasts a category-leading arsenal of standard input options including CobraNet, AES/EBU and analog XLR inputs, allowing distribution of many channels of real-time, high quality digital audio for a vast array of touring and contracting applications.
I-Tech HD builds upon Crown Audio’s remarkable 60-year heritage of amplifier design and the category-defining legacy of the original I-Tech amplifiers. Patented Class-I Amplifier Technology featured in the new I-Tech HD delivers the highest output voltage in the industry, which provides clean transient peaks.
“Today, great power comes with great functionality,� Graham continued. “With I-Tech HD, Crown Audio has achieved the enviable balance of matching functionality with ease of integration, network scalability, intuitive operation and power performance. Just as I-Tech set the benchmark for integrated DSP and amplification — topping many millions of watts on the tour sound circuit and in fixed installation — I-Tech HD provides members of our user community with distinct audio and commercial advantages that make them better, faster, more competitive and lighter than their competition!�
Protected by a rugged 2U chassis, the I-Tech HD weighs in at a lightweight 30 lbs. (13 kg.) but its proven, Class-I output design packs a heavyweight punch to deliver massive amounts of power while generating minimal heat. Crown Audio’s patented Power Factor Correction (PFC) techniques allow I-Tech HD to draw current from the mains more efficiently, which in concert with the Class-I output enables I-Tech HD to provide the highest output voltage available and a clearly audible difference driving high-performance loudspeakers. Minimum guaranteed power ratings are as follows:
Power per channel with both channels driven:
I-T5000 HD: 2,000W at 2 Ohms; 2,500W at 4 Ohms; 1,250W at 8 Ohms
I-T9000 HD: 2,800W at 2 Ohms; 3,500W at 4 Ohms; 1,500W at 8 Ohms
I-T12000 HD: 3,750W at 2 Ohms; 4,500W at 4 Ohms; 2,100W at 8 Ohms

Continuing a heritage of sonic integrity and quality that has spanned over two decades, Crown today announced the latest update to its Macro-Tech i series of amplifiers, featuring increased power and new dual port capability. Comprised of three models, the MA-5000i, MA-9000i, and MA-12000i, the Macro-Tech i series features patented Class-I circuitry, which delivers greater power while reducing the amplifier’s weight by more than half.
The new Macro-Tech i series also features dual-port capability. An additional network port now allows a user to daisy chain the network control down the rack of amplifiers instead of having to run a separate cable from a switch to each individual amplifier.
“The professional sound reinforcement community knows what to expect from the Macro-Tech i series. They are getting the best sounding, most reliable analog power amplifier in the world. The best just got better with these updates. The upgraded power and features reflect the needs of our customers and our desire to provide them with a solution that best meets their needs,� stated Brian Divine, director of marketing for touring and installed sound for Crown.
All Macro-Tech i amplifiers are also equipped with comprehensive status, fault, and load monitoring via standard Harman HiQnetâ„¢ System Architectâ„¢ software. A universal power-factor corrected power supply ensures that the amps can be anywhere in the world, delivering full rated power regardless of the environment.
Power output ratings on the newly updated Macro-Tech i series are as follows:
• MA-5000i – 3000W per channel at 2 ohms (with 2565W 20mS burst), 2500W per channel at 4 ohms, 1250W per channel at 8 ohms, 4000W at 4 ohms bridged, and 5000W at 8 ohms bridged
• MA-9000i – 4700W per channel at 2 ohms (with 4570W 20mS burst), 3500W per channel at 4 ohms, 1500W per channel at 8 ohms, 5600W at 4 ohms bridged, and 7000W at 8 ohms bridged
• MA-12000i – 6000W per channel at 2 ohms (with 5900W 20mS burst), 4500W per channel at 4 ohms, 2100W per channel at 8 ohms, 7500W at 4 ohms bridged, and 9000W at 8 ohms bridged

Delivering unprecedented power and flexibility while offering clear sound and the widest dynamic range possible, Crown today introduced the PIP-USP4, the fourth generation DSP-based PIPâ„¢ (programmable input processor) module for CTs Series 2-channel amplifiers. The USP4 is a Harman HiQnetâ„¢ series component and connects to the audio control/monitor network using 100MB Ethernet hardware. The single plug solution contains audio distribution, control and monitoring.
“We are proud to bring the same next generation OMNIDRIVEHDTM DSP Engine that is featured in our I-Tech HD line to the PIP-USP4. This technology represents what will soon become known as the industry standard and we will continue to implement it for the ultimate in processing for other Crown products,� stated Brian Divine, director of marketing for touring and installed sound for Crown.
The USP4’s OMNIDRIVEHD™ processor gives the user ultra smooth processing with 24-bit, 192 kHz Cirrus Logic SHARC A/D and D/A converters and true 96kHz processing. LevelMAX™peak, RMS and transducer thermal voltage limiters combine for a smooth and accurate response, better sound and higher usable SPL. Also available are proprietary FIR and IIR filters for unmatched clarity and detail. The USP4 is capable of connecting to an Ethernet network, allowing it to be remotely controlled and configured via HiQnet System Architect™. Additionally, the USP4 allows the transport of real-time digital audio via CobraNet™ or Ethernet AVB.
A digital audio on/off ramp allows users to send pre or post processed analog signal out of the module to adjacent amplifiers. This capability can reduce DSP cost for a system by up to 40% on its own.
Other features of the PIP-USP4 include auto standby for increased energy efficiency, SLM (sweep load monitoring) with system-level diagnostics, 25 user selectable presets and over two seconds of delay per channel. Available input options include analog, CobraNet or Ethernet AVB, and AES3 Digital Audio.

In one of the most highly anticipated tours of the year, Audio Analysts and Crown I-Tech HD amplifiers are now on the road with Bruce Springsteen. Currently Springsteen and the E-Street Band are in the middle of a 45-show U.S. tour to promote his new album, Working on a Dream. Audio Analysts is one of the first tour sound companies to make use of I-Tech HD amps for a full-scale tour and provide tour sound reinforcement for some of the biggest names in music.
Audio Analysts’ relationship with Crown began almost four decades ago beginning with the classic DC300 amp. While other brands have been tried and tested, Audio Analysts has continuously come back to Crown.
For the tour, Audio Analysts has deployed 36 I-Tech 5000HD and 18 I-Tech 12000HD amplifiers. “The new I-Tech HD has a lot of great features that make this the ideal tour amplifier. It starts with the reliability, which we have always got from Crown since we starting using their amps in the early 1970s. Plus, with the I-Tech HD the next generation DSP is perfect for more precise algorithms for system EQ and tunings,� stated Albert Leccese, Vice President of Engineering for Audio Analysts.
“We are proud to say we have been working with Bruce for the last 17 years. Bruce works very hard to deliver an exciting, high-energy performance and he has the highest expectations for his band and everyone else involved in the show’s production, including his sound company. The Crown I-Tech HD is a testament to this attitude, which validates our continued support for our clients. Audio Analysts strives for innovative technologies that reinforce our efforts to supply our clients with the best equipment at a fair price,� added Leccese.
“Bruce Springsteen’s music has long evoked the passion, challenges, and perseverance of American life. He has been a true innovator across a range of genres and is a global icon for high-quality music. At Crown we salute Audio Analysts and we are proud to share in the company’s continuous goal of striving for innovation in our field,� stated Brian Divine, director of marketing for touring and installed sound for Crown.
I-Tech HD features a new user-inspired DSP engine co-developed with BSS called OMNIDRIVEHD. The new processing engine features Linear Phase FIR filters that offer unrivaled crossover performance for sonically pure tunings. The OMNIDRIVEHD processing engine also features an innovative new suite of limiters called LevelMAXâ„¢. Harman HiQnetâ„¢ System Architect â„¢ mirrors the typical browser navigation interface to provide tour sound and contracting professionals with a familiar interface to access a host of power configuration and control functions.
The I-Tech HD amplifiers power 64 JBL VerTec VT4889’s large-format line array elements, 32 VT4880 arrayable subwoofers, 56 VT4888 mid-size line array elements and six VT4887 compact line array elements for front fill. “When you’re out on tour, different venues present random and often challenging acoustics. VerTec is light weight and therefore gives you a lot of rigging options, plus you get great sound,� stated Leccese.

Reprising the broad market success of its XTI Series of portable sound amplifiers for live sound and fixed applications. Crown Audio is introducing the next generation XTI6000 that features advanced power performance, improved system reliability, and a new breakthrough user interface for configuration and control in Crown’s HiQnet™ Band Manager™.
The Crown XTI Series has earned a formidable reputation in the portable sound market place, leveraging Crown’s unparalleled heritage in live sound amplification. The new XTI6000 provides audio professionals with the winning addition of a power amplifier solution to this high value, high performance product line.
“The best just got better with the XTI6000. We’ve listened carefully to the needs and suggestions of end users and retail partners before we built a compelling new amplifier that packs tremendous punch, performs consistently, and is priced to reach the broadest possible market,� stated Andy Flint, Crown marketing manager for portable PA.
The XTI6000 allows for plug and play usability with it’s integrated proprietary DSP with LCD front panel making it easy to set crossovers, delay, limiters, and EQ along with the ability to save and recall up to 20 presets.
Continuing the heritage of previous XTI-Series amplifiers the XTI6000 features an LCD screen with speaker presets for crossover frequencies, EQ, limiting, delay, and a subharmonic synthesizer. Additionally, there is switch-mode universal power supply, useful function indicators, propositional-speed fan-assisted cooling, XLR inputs, Speakon® and binding-post outputs, and short-circuit protection. The XTI6000 weighs in at 24lbs and has a MAP price of $1,999.
Power per channel:
3,000W at 2 Ohms; 2,100W at 4Ohms; 1,200W at 8 Ohms

BSS Audio®, a Harman International Company (NYSE-HAR), today added a cost-effective break-out box to its acclaimed Soundweb™ London family of digital signal processors. The new BLU-BOB output expander compliments the seven other members of the Soundweb London™ family and represents an inexpensive solution to increasing the number of outputs in a Harman HiQnet™ networked system.
The BLU-BOB features eight analog audio outputs on standard terminal block connectors and the 256-channel, low latency, fault tolerant digital audio bus, also found on the BLU-800, BLU-320, BLU-160 and BLU-120 devices. In addition to providing a backbone for the transportation of multiple channels, this bus also facilitates the creation of large, fault-tolerant, centralized matrices containing multiple devices. The digital audio bus uses standard, inexpensive Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable, which enables a distance of 100 meters between devices. The BSS Audio MC-1 fiber optic media converter can be used to increase the distance between devices to over 10km (6.2 miles) using single mode fiber.
A series of DIP switches on the rear of the BLU-BOB device allow consecutive channels, in groups of eight, to be selected from the digital audio bus. Multiple BLU-BOB devices can be configured to receive the same or different eight channel ranges. Signal present and power status are clearly displayed by front panel LED indicators for monitoring and troubleshooting. The BLU-BOB devices are powered by an external 24VDC power supply such as the BSS Audio 999-PSU.
Two chassis styles are available, the first (BLU-BOB1) is a half rack width, desk or wall mounted version and the second (BLU-BOB2) is a 19� single rack space version with mounting ears for equipment racks. Front panel indication and rear panel connections are identical on both versions.
Each of the eight different Soundweb London devices offer a different mix of signal processing, CobraNetâ„¢ and digital audio bus functionality, making a Soundweb London system the perfect match for any application

In a fixed installation that raises the bar for audio signal processing and distribution, The Kimmel Center’s Verizon Hall in Philadelphia, one of the premier performing arts centers on the East Coast, commissioned sound integration firm Acme Professional to install a BSS Audio Soundweb London system.
Verizon Hall is a 2,800-seat grand performance hall that serves as the home of the world-renowned Philadelphia Orchestra, Philly Pops, and also hosts many high-profile music artists spanning all spectrums of music. Many technical systems including automated acoustical elements accommodate a wide range of events, including major performances, HD television program production and awards shows.
The aging audio signal processing and distribution system in Verizon Hall was replaced with a BSS Audio Soundweb London system as a means to significantly improve audio performance for a modest cost. “We wanted to deploy a system that would significantly improve audio quality in the hall, and provide a more robust network,� remarked Pete Cosmos, president of Acme Professional.
The new BSS Audio system consists of three Soundweb London BLU-80 and two BLU-32 devices, and one BLU-10 touch-screen programmable controller. The house audio system consists of multiple house mix drive-line inputs and (32) output stems to drive the installed loudspeaker systems and many fill loudspeakers located throughout the four tiers of seating areas. Working with David Conner, director of house audio at the Kimmel Center, Acme developed a design that allowed a seamless switchover to the new Soundweb London system. “The upgrade to Soundweb London exceeded our expectations and is highly recommended where multiple, aligned speaker systems are required in a critical audio environment. A big improvement in fidelity was achieved at a modest cost,� stated Conner.
Flexibility was another primary reason to choose Soundweb London. A BLU-10 programmable controller provides many modes of audio system operation required for the various types of events produced by the Kimmel Center. “Since the hall is used for unamplified major orchestral concerts, the motorized loudspeaker cluster can disappear, raising up into the tech attic via motorized doors located in the main acoustical canopy over the stage. A concealed announcement system is still required for such events, which involves complete re-timing of all concealed loudspeakers. This was easily achieved with the Soundweb London system and the BLU-10 touch-screen controller,� added Cosmos.
“Even the timing and phase improvements of the new processing and audio network were immediately noticeable,� added Conner.
“With announcements, musicians in the Philadelphia Orchestra commented they thought a completely new audio system was installed, even while sitting on the stage behind the systems,� stated Cosmos.
“The new Soundweb London devices provide us a new degree of flexibility and reliability in what is a demanding performance environment,� said David Thiele, vice president at the Kimmel Center.

BSS Audioâ„¢, a Harman International Company (NYSE-HAR), today introduced the Acoustic Echo Cancellation (AEC) card to its acclaimed Soundwebâ„¢ London family of digital signal processors. Designed specifically for the Soundweb London BLU-800, BLU-320, BLU-160 and BLU-120 devices, the Soundweb London AEC input card complements the analog and digital, input and output, card options, extending the reach of Soundweb London into teleconferencing applications.
The Soundweb London AEC input card utilizes a proprietary algorithm developed by Wavemakers®, a Harman International company and specialist in voice optimization software for automotive and communications applications. The algorithm used on the Soundweb London AEC input card has been specifically designed to meet the needs of Installed Sound applications and the high expectations of today’s teleconference participant.
The Soundweb London AEC input card features four microphone / line level channels with Acoustic Echo Cancellation per channel. A direct microphone feed is made available to facilitate local sound reinforcement. Configuration, control and monitoring of the AEC input card is provided by Harman HiQnetâ„¢ London Architect.
The Soundweb London BLU-800, BLU-320, BLU-160 and BLU-120 devices joined the existing BLU-80, BLU-32 and BLU-16 devices. The newer devices feature a low-latency, fault-tolerant digital audio bus of 256 channels. In addition to providing a backbone for the transportation of multiple channels, this bus also facilitates the creation of large, fault-tolerant, centralized matrices containing multiple devices. The BLU-800 and BLU-160 models feature configurable DSP, boasting four times the processing capability of BLU-80 and BLU-16 devices.
The BLU-BOB cost-effective break-out box was also added to the family and represents an inexpensive solution to increasing the number of outputs in a Harman HiQnet networked system.
Since its advent, the BSS Audio Soundweb London family has drawn acclaim for its flexibility and intuitive operation. All eight models offer pristine audio quality, advanced A/D and D/A conversion, 96kHz capability, drag-and-drop system design with CobraNetâ„¢ bundle assignment, Ethernet based control, an extensive range of control options from simple to sophisticated, easy expansion or reconfiguration of system hardware in the field and an upgrade path for future enhancements.
Each of the eight different Soundweb London devices offer a different mix of signal processing, CobraNet and digital audio bus functionality, making a Soundweb London system the perfect match for any application.

AKG is showcasing the DMS 700 digital wireless microphone system at InfoComm, offering users a state of the art feature set including digital audio encryption, ultra wide tuning range and high channel count in a simple to use 19� chassis. Ideal for live sound reinforcement, conference facilities, courtrooms and houses of worship, the DMS 700 is a revolutionary wireless solution designed for the future as it operates with two frequency bands with each band providing a tuning range of up to 155 MHz of receivers and transmitters giving the user extended flexibility in today’s crowded RF environment.
The clean digital audio transmission eliminates the distortion and significant noise levels at the higher audio frequencies that is typically produced by analog systems. The DMS 700 offers 155 MHz of bandwidth, which provides a robust and versatile operation. The encrypted digital audio transmission enables users to broadcast sensitive audio information and each channel can be secured with its own encryption key to keep the information absolutely confidential.
Featuring the ability to operate up to 100 channels simultaneously, the digital audio transmission system provides a better resistance to interference from other transmissions and an infrared link between receiver and transmitter offers a quick system setup for easy and user-friendly operation.

DSR 700 Digital Stationary Receiver
The 1U 19� rack mountable DSR 700 digital receiver features encryption and 155 MHz tuning range ensuring future operation. The internal digital signal processor provides an array of audio features such as a low cut, 3-Band Equalizer, dbx® compressor and dbx limiter. The built in spectrum analyzer displays the frequency range to enhance the operation and control of the radio spectrum. The DSR 700 features Harman HiQnet™ allowing it to be networked with Crown® amps and JBL® speakers and other Harman Products which also allows for easy software updates of all system components.

DHT 700 Digital Handheld Transmitter
The DHT700 Transmitter has a rugged metal housing, a built-in helical antenna and 50mW RF output power that provides for optimal and reliable transmission. The DHT 700 features AKG’s Top Selling D5 dynamic microphone capsule for lead and backing vocals. The patented Laminate Varimotion™ diaphragm accompanies the supercardiod polar pattern to provide users with higher gain before feedback than typical hand held vocal mics. AKG’s C5 condenser microphone capsule with a cardioid polar pattern is also available.

DPT 700 Digital Bodypack Transmitter
The DPT 700 Bodypack transmitter accepts both microphone and line-level input signals with no need to adjust the input sensitivity. This unique feature guarantees a failure-proof operation and the professional TB3M audio input supports a broad range of headsets, lavalieres and instrument microphones. AKG’s legendary battery life of eight hours of operation from two regular AA size batteries remains consistent in the DPT700 as with other AKG wireless systems.

CU 700 Charging Unit
AKG’s CU 700 is a fast charger that rapidly charges the rechargeable batteries inside the transmitter without damaging the cells’ elements. The microprocessor-controlled charger determines the optimum charge current and has a cooling fan to help keep the temperature of the cells in a controlled environment. Charging is terminated when both batteries are fully charged. The CU 700 charger uses the DC Pulse Technology in which a pulse is fed to the battery with a strictly controlled rise time, pulse width, pulse repetition rate and amplitude. With pulse charging, high instantaneous voltages can be applied without overheating the battery.
Harman HiQnetâ„¢ is the world’s first connectivity and control protocol that integrates all product categories in the signal chain for professional audio systems of all types, size, and applications. Harman HiQnet no longer requires the user to manage multiple disparate operating systems or be responsible for programming individual signal processors, speaker controllers, wireless microphone systems, and mixing consoles. HiQnet was developed by engineers from across the Harman Pro Group and is coordinated by the System Development and Integration Group (SDIG), a team of dedicated systems specialists based in Salt Lake City, Utah.

On Tina Turner’s current world tour, sound engineer Dave Natale deployed AKG C214 microphones as well as a WMS4500 wireless system to provide outstanding audio quality and versatility on stage. Natale initially tested the C214 mic on a sound check in AKG’s hometown of Vienna, Austria and immediately began using the mic on the current tour.
Dave Natale is no stranger to working with some of the world’s biggest stars, including more