Exclusive IntelligentDC Technology Continues to Expand and Evolve

The Meyer Sound booth at InfoComm in Las Vegas pulled steady crowds throughout the show as audio consultants and system integrators gathered to examine and discuss the company’s expansive line of installation loudspeakers, system processors, and associated software platforms.

“This was our first major trade show presence since early 2020 and it was a great feeling to welcome back all the dealers, customers, and associates we’ve known over the years,” says Director of Global Marketing Tim Boot. “When the live event industry suffered setbacks during COVID, the installation market remained surprisingly strong for us, and we were happy to show our appreciation with hospitality through the show.”

Making its major trade show debut at InfoComm was Meyer Sound’s new PANTHER large-format linear line array loudspeaker. A single PANTHER cabinet on display was unattached, allowing attendees in pairs to pick it up and confirm that the system, though producing more than 150 dB peak SPL, indeed weighs in at less than 150 lb (68 kg).

A major focus at InfoComm was Meyer Sound’s exclusive IntelligentDC technology, which uniquely combines the installation advantages of low voltage distributed systems with a level of performance possible only with self-powered loudspeakers.

“IntelligentDC remains the only viable solution for higher-power loudspeaker systems that require neither long loudspeaker cable runs nor access to AC power,” says Boot. “IntelligentDC systems can sustain peaks up to 860 watts, which is far more than you can get with Power over Ethernet solutions. More than two-thirds of the loudspeakers in the line are true bi-amplified loudspeakers with active crossovers.”

IntelligentDC systems utilize a multi-channel rack-mount power supply and signal distribution unit to deliver 48V DC power and balanced audio over a single 5-core cable through eight outputs to as many as 24 loudspeakers, depending on system configuration. Each unit can send the same signal to all loudspeakers or be switched to route different signals in any combination. Building codes in most jurisdictions worldwide allow installation without conduit.

A total of 17 loudspeaker models are currently offered with the technology, including 12 bi-amplified systems and two subwoofers. In addition to standard surface-mount models, the IntelligentDC line also includes two ceiling loudspeakers and four cinema surrounds.

“We are continually upgrading and expanding IntelligentDC to incorporate our newest loudspeaker technologies,” continues Boot. “The latest addition is the ULTRA-X20 series, which offers three horn configurations — all field rotatable — to tailor coverage and cabinet orientation to any situation. It’s an extraordinarily versatile solution for hospitality installations as well as for fill and delay systems in performance venues.”

IntelligentDC systems are the backbone of Meyer Sound’s industry-leading Constellation® acoustic system. Only IntelligentDC offers the critical combination of impeccable audio performance and cost-effective placement of the many lateral and overhead loudspeakers — often numbering in the hundreds — required for realizing natural-sounding acoustical ambience.

Aside from Constellation, other installations utilizing IntelligentDC exclusively or primarily include systems in hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, casinos, high-end retail establishments, and sound art installations. Performing arts centers, theaters, and theme parks usually employ IntelligentDC in combination with larger Meyer Sound systems with direct AC powering.

A forthcoming power supply and signal distribution unit was previewed at InfoComm. Expected to ship later this year, it will offer upgraded system monitoring and computer integration features as well as new front panel aesthetics.

Following PANTHER’s recent Parnelli Award victory for “Indispensable Technology — Audio” at the 2022 NAMM Show, the loudspeaker received Commercial Integrator’s BEST Award in the “Venue/Line Array Loudspeakers” category as well as the Mix Best of Show Award.

Other highlights drawing attention at the Meyer Sound booth included the recent TEC Award-winning ULTRA-X20 compact point source loudspeaker, USW-112P compact subwoofer, GALAXY Network Platform, Spacemap® Go spatial sound design and live mixing tool, and a soon-to-be-announced software platform.