Europe - d&b audiotechnik has announced the launch of the CCL System (Compact Cardioid Line Array), the first product in the new CL Series. This system provides broadband directivity control with low-frequency cardioid behaviour in a passive design, enabling single-channel amplifier operation – an industry first in the compact line array category, the company says.
The CCL features a revised implementation of a patented d&b design to bring the acclaimed cardioid directivity and electroacoustic performance, formerly only available in d&b SL Series models, to smaller, closer audience areas, more installation applications, and a broader range of customers.
At the heart of the system are two 7" front-firing drivers, two 5" side and rear drivers and two 1.75" high-frequency transducers of a completely new design. This approach combines superior low-frequency and broadband directivity control with exceptional high-frequency headroom and minimal distortion.
Designed to reduce system infrastructure complexity and cost, the CCL requires minimal logistic and implementation efforts. With its lightweight, compact form factor, it utilises less truck space, and fewer amplification and cabling resources in mobile applications. In installed scenarios, the cardioid low-frequency behaviour dramatically improves the perceived sound quality in both indoor and outdoor venues, while the sleek design integrates into any space.
The CCL follows d&b's traditional approach and will be available in both mobile (CCL) and installed (CCLi) configurations, as well as 80° (CCL8) and 120° (CCL12) horizontal dispersion versions. Its contained dimensions (209 x 593 x 355mm) and light weight (18kg) make it a versatile, easy-to-rig solution for corporate rental, regional tours, festivals and larger events, where it can complement SL Series arrays as a side- or in-fills. For permanent installations, the CCL System excels in theatres, auditoriums, houses of worship, and acoustically challenging spaces such as sports arenas or reverberant rooms.
"d&b audiotechnik remains at the forefront of cardioid loudspeaker system design," says Santiago Alcalá Baillie, product manager at d&b audiotechnik. "With the CCL we're responding to market demand for a compact, lightweight system that brings the unparalleled benefits of cardioid technology to a broader spectrum of applications, making our flagship technical solutions accessible to a wider range of installations and events."
Complementing the CCL System is the new CCL-SUB, a flyable subwoofer available in both mobile and install versions. The passive cardioid design features a front 15” and a rear 10” driver configuration. The CCL-SUB offers reduced port noise and extended usable bandwidth, particularly when deployed in mixed arrays with the CCL System.
Both CCL and CCL-SUB can operate with 40D, D40, D80, and D90 amplifiers, supporting up to eight loudspeakers per amplifier in any combination or load condition, delivering full output without any headroom restrictions. Settings are also available for the 30D and D20 amplifiers.
The CCL system will become available in the first half of 2025, with early listening opportunities at both NAMM and ISE, where visitors will be able to experience its performance firsthand.
