Outline Introduces Mini-C.O.M.P.A.S.S iMode Line Array Speaikers at InfoComm 2011

Outline will introduce its Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. iMode line array powered speakers at InfoComm 2011 (Booth #683). Based on Outline's award-winning, patented COMpact Polar Adjustable Sound System technology, Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. iMode takes the original specifications to the next level, the company says, by offering a streamlined, compact cabinet design that incorporates Outline's advanced iMode technology. Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. iMode is designed for the small- to medium-sized system for touring or fixed installations.

"Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. iMode is the most advanced system of its type on the market," says Tom Bensen, senior vice-president and managing director of Outline North America. "Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. delivers a compact form, self-powered, vertical line array system that is lightweight, easy to haul, easy to aim, and contains not only a power amplifier, but the DSP engine iMode. Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. iMode receives its signal directly from the console without any outboard EQ, compression or crossover units. This saves on hauling, inventory and considerably streamlines system wiring. We believe Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. iMode will have a significant impact on the industry."

Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. iMode is a self-powered, bi-amped loudspeaker cabinet used as a vertical line array (VLA) system. This ultra-compact loudspeaker system, weighing in at 52.9lbs., features two 1.75" compression drivers and four 5" mid woofers to deliver a peak SPL of 141dB @ 1m with four enclosures, with a frequency response of 100 to 20kHz. The cabinet utilizes two of Outline's Double Parabolic Reflective Wave Guides, a technology developed and patented by Outline for its Butterfly line array systems covering the high frequency section.

Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. iMode is the only compact VLA with variable, asymmetrical horizontal directivity. Steps of 15 degrees can be manually set between 60 to 150 degrees, thus allowing the operator to direct sonic energy where it is required. Sixteen combinations of horizontal coverage (including asymmetric ones) are possible to fine-tune coverage according to the audience and acoustic properties of the venue. For example, in acoustically difficult venues, it is useful to avoid reflections from the walls. Because the sound can be directed to where it is needed by moving the "wings" of the Mini-COM.P.A.S.S., changing the acoustic radiation conditions is simple and straightforward. An embedded sensor-based recognition apparatus signals the DSP engine of the position of the cabinet wings and on-axis response is automatically corrected in real time.

Living up to Outline's concept "from console to enclosures in just one step," the iMode technology incorporated in the Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. cabinet embeds a Linux-based CPU with an Outline-customized kernel, integrated DSP chip, parameter control software and web server to drive the internal amplifiers. Chosen for its extreme stability and compatibility, the operating system provides a robust foundation for iMode's advanced functions. Audio conversion is done at 24-bit/192kHz resolution and users have real-time control over a series of parameters, including levels, delay, EQ and shelving filters. iMode also allows the user to monitor performance parameters throughout the system, including VU-meters, selected preset parameters, clip and limiter status, amplifier overheating and protection.

Users can control a Mini-COM.P.A.S.S. iMode sound system via any standard web browser (no special software required), just as one would navigate a Web site. With standard IP-based communication, the iMode platform is truly future-proof, controllable via iPad, iPhone or any Internet-savvy device. Winner of a PLASA Innovation Award in 2010, iMode represents the next step in the marriage of loudspeakers, amplifiers and IT, the company says.