Harman’s dbx Professional has introduced the new DriveRack VENU360 loudspeaker management system, designed for precise optimization of both live and installed loudspeaker systems
Successor to the DriveRack 260, the new VENU360 adds a host of additional features, including mobile device control, additional input channels, improved DSP and easier operation.
“The DriveRack VENU360 provides a level of loudspeaker tuning that’s far beyond anything previously available,” says Jason Kunz, market manager, Portable PA and Recording & Broadcast. “The result is sound systems that simply sound better, with the major advantage of having complete control of the VENU360 from a laptop, tablet or even a smartphone.”
The DriveRack VENU360 is a highly configurable and flexible device that includes the latest advancements in dbx’s AFS (Advanced Feedback Suppression) and AutoEQ algorithms (first introduced in the DriveRack PA2). Other input processing includes 31-band graphic EQ, 12-band parametric EQ with narrow-notch capabilities, dbx compression, subharmonic synthesis for enhanced low-frequency impact, backline time delay, and noise gating.
Multi-crossover configurations are possible with support for full range, 2-way or 3-way operation (custom mono 4-way, 5-way or 6-way configurations are also available). Output processing is provided with 12-band AutoEQ (eight AutoEQ bands, four user configurable bands), dbx compression, automatic gain control, subharmonic synthesis, noise gating, tower delays (up to 1000 ms per output), 8-band parametric EQs (used for loudspeaker tunings), dbx limiting and driver alignment delays.
Connecting a dbx RTA-M measurement microphone (sold separately) to the front-panel RTA mic input allows dbx’s proprietary Level Assist and AutoEQ algorithms to be utilized, for automatic, precise system balancing and equalization of the loudspeakers within the venue. Because AutoEQ is now located in the output processing stage, independent sections of a system can be equalized automatically. This allows it to be used on the front of house system as well as the stage monitors, zones and tower delays.
The VENU360 can be set up and operated from a compatible iOS, Android, Windows or Macintosh device via an easy-to-use app and a standard Wi-Fi router connected to the rear-panel Ethernet port. The VENU360 also has a front-panel LCD display with on-screen “map-style” navigation and input and output meters and mutes for system setup and monitoring.
An improved automated Wizard setup utility now supports stage monitors. The Wizard automatically configures hundreds of audio parameters with the push of a few buttons. Among the Wizard’s many functions are level assist, AutoEQ, AFS and built-in tunings for JBL loudspeakers, Crown amplifiers and many more. Up to 75 user configurations can be saved, eliminating the need to enter the same system or venue settings over and over again.
The VENU360 provides balanced XLR analog and AES digital inputs for connection to a mixer, with support for mono, stereo, LCR and aux-fed sub configurations. Six balanced XLR outputs can be configured for PA system front of house, stage monitors, delay towers, zones and more. It’s also compatible with BSS Audio Contrio Ethernet wall controllers. Future firmware updates can be made via the USB port and firmware update utility.
The dbx DriveRack VENU360 will be available in April 2015 at a suggested price of $799.
