Taking on board feedback received over the years about the DS800, the DS8000 has been re-modelled by one of the company's up and coming protégés Lewis Evans. The project was overseen by Gottelier Award winner, R&D Manager, Alex Cooper.
"Every time I work on a new mic amplifier, I learn something new and as a result people say they get even better. The DS8000 has Common Mode Rejection Ratio figures I could hardly believe - for example, a typical CMRR reading on a similar product may give 40-70 dBs whereas the DS8000 tests at a minimum of 120 dBs which is phenomenal. The reason behind this is the common mode bootstrapped input configuration, which eliminates phase errors enabling near total cancellation of common mode noise."
The DS8000 has two new key features: an outside-broadcast split function tailored to the demands of the broadcast industry, featuring two rear switches making stereo 16 way splits easy; and a dual redundant power supply system that is a breeze to enable when two DS8000 units are paired together.
In addition, the system incorporates remote controlled 48V phantom power with lockout 'safe' functions to prevent tampering. There are also all those new premium microphone pre-amps designed by Alex Cooper himself. Subtle panel lighting is provided for dark back stage environments and there is the option of adding an ADC card that provides AES3 outputs for integration into digital systems.
Together with new output transformers, this all combines to produce a package that builds on its predecessor's reputation as a flexible, rugged and high quality distribution system.
The DS8000 is a 2U, 8 input to 32 output mic/line distribution system with 16 transformer balanced isolated outputs and 16 electronically balanced outputs fitted as standard. Input transformers and the option of replacing the electronically balanced outputs with transformer outputs are available.
Group sales and marketing director Bill Woods comments, "The DS8000 comprises XTA's third generation of splitters. The legacy began with the DS400, and was then followed by the DS800, the latter of which has become one of the go-to products in both touring and broadcast. We are confident that the new DS8000 will quickly establish itself as a very worthy successor to the DS800.
" With the linked PSU's, the simple OB split facility and the other features we have introduced, we are looking forward to even higher sales over the coming months and years. I have to congratulate Alex, Lewis and the other guys in the R&D Team for giving us a great product to sell."
(Jim Evans)
