OUTLINE PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE PUBLICATION
Flero - Brescia - Italy, Monday, 7th September 2009
Hi-res image:http://89.96.202.198/Outline_i-Mode/1.jpg
Outline introduces i-Mode, the intelligent loudspeaker platform
The Italian manufacturer introduces the next step in self-powered loudspeaker development, processing and control
At London’s upcoming PLASA show (booth 1-G10), Outline will introduce its newest technology, i-Mode. This unique and innovative platform will ultimately be implemented across a number of self-powered products, and represents a truly ‘intelligent’ platform dedicated to professional audio. i-Mode represents the next generation in the company’s vision for creative, innovative and practical technology – a vision established over a decade ago by founder Guido Noselli and continued today by the research and development team.
Outline i-Mode platform is the company’s first truly ‘intelligent’ platform dedicated for use with professional audio systems. i-Mode has a lightweight and compact form factor that is entirely self-contained within the loudspeaker enclosure.
Outline i-Mode is perfectly integrated into the Outline product, accessible via the rear of the loudspeaker as well as remotely. As of September 2009, it is available in models DVS 115 SW, DVS 118 SW, and LAB 15, with plans to implement it across a number of self-powered Outline products.
Outline i-Mode is a truly ‘intelligent’ platform for advanced loudspeaker control. In addition to utilizing a powerful switching amplifier, the system provides complete and accurate loudspeaker control and reporting of all system parameters within each component, and across the entire system as a whole.
Using Outline i-Mode, loudspeaker performance can be completely optimized for a variety of applications. Acoustic output, for example, is maximized while maintaining the lowest possible distortion levels (an extensive list of its features can be found on page 4).
Through the use of advanced digital signal processing (DSP) and a built-in web server, users can control the sound system via any standard web browser (no special software required), just as one would navigate a website. Additionally, a number of control parameters can be conveniently accessed via the loudspeaker’s rear panel and display. With standard IP-based communication, the i-Mode platform is truly future-proof, controllable via netbook, smartphone, and any devices ‘of tomorrow’.
i-Mode operates on a Linux operating system with an Outline-customized kernel. Chosen for its extreme stability and compatibility, the operating system provides a robust foundation for i-Mode’s advanced functions. Audio conversion is done at 24-bit/192 kHz resolution.
As described by the Outline R&D team: "i-Mode is not just a simple amplifier module with embedded DSP, as is currently available on the market. Development in the fields of computers and electronics have allowed us to advance to the next step in Outline’s vision: 'from the PC to the loudspeakers'. This vision has guided us to the realization of this platform.”
i-Mode is designed, engineered and produced by the Outline s.r.l. team.
Outline will also be presenting this year a number of physical as well as software products.
Outline LAB 21 infra-sub will be shown for the first time at PLASA. The LAB 21 uses a hybrid waveguide and indirect radiation system. This design allows the single 21" driver to move two masses of air in one single chamber to give unprecedented results compared with its competitors.
Outline MANTAS: following in the footsteps of Butterfly's heritage, MANTAS has been developed either as a stand alone cost effective line array or as an addition to Butterfly. MANTAS, which has the same patented flying hardware as Butterfly, can be integrated into a Butterfly array to give 120 degree dispersion, thus providing infill/out fill duties. MANTAS as a stand alone system combined with Outline's new T5 amplifier system becomes an entry level line array product for small to medium size rental companies and is ideal for many installations.
Outline DVS series: all DVS series cabinets are now available as either passive or self powered versions; 8-10-12 and 15" models will be on display.
Outline OPENARRAY 3D software: has been designed in house by Outline. It can be used with all the Outline product range whether it be point source cabinets or line array. The distinct advantages of OPENARRAY is that DWG/EASE data can be imported directly into the platform and give the system engineer or designer a truly accurate prediction of what to be expected in LIVE conditions. Once the data has been implemented the render time is very quick. OPENARRAY is also the perfect selling tool, allowing Dealers and Distributors to show how a sound system can be employed to get perfect results every time. At PLASA Outline will be hosting training sessions three times per day; each session will accommodate 10 people.
Outline AUDIOCONTROL: a software platform that allows control of Outline’s T series amplifiers and also mini-COM.P.A.S.S. line array. Again this software has been designed in-house by Outline and will give the designer and system engineer control of all protocols associated with the products above mentioned. AUDIOCONTROL when used with mini-COM.P.A.S.S. gives the user a graphical interface between mini-COM.P.A.S.S. and all its functions-plus actual control of time alignment, phase and gain control. Training will also be offered on this product during PLASA as part of the of the ongoing training programs instituted from now and for the future.
