Blog

The digital system controllers by Omnitronic prove it: Technology “made in Germany” can still be inexpensive and reliable at the same time.

Not only were they developed and assembled in Germany. The DXOs also offer all functions that can be expected from a DSP-based loudspeaker management system: The signal routing can be flexibly adjusted to all standard PA applications based on various stereo and mono setups. The common frequency filter types Bessel, Butterworth and Linkwitz-Riley are available for splitting up the audio signal into a maximum of 4 (DXO-24E) and 6 (DXO-26E) output channels respectively. The slope of each filter can be selected in steps from 6 to 24 dB/octave. The unit offers 7 full-parametric EQs, phase adjustment, and a limiter per output. Additionally, a delay function of up to 7 msec per signal path is included in case of differences in running time for different speaker distances.

The supplied PC software allows convenient control of all functions via a computer and serves as administration tool quasi for an unlimited number of user presets. The software is constantly being developed and enhanced with additional functions. Frequency crossovers and equalizers can be constantly monitored and modified with a clear graphical display. The software automatically recognizes which unit is connected and calls up the matching user interface.
With the DXO-26I, a special version was designed for permanent installation. This version can only be controlled with the PC software and thus is protected against manipulation. The controller corresponds to the DXO-26E in all its functions. It is intended, inter alia, for use in shops, restaurants, conference rooms, and other event locations. For locations with fixed systems, where it’s not always possible to have personnel monitor the technical equipment.

The smallest model of the series is the DXO-24S which is an even more inexpensive alternative. Just as with the DXO-26I, the control elements were left out here as well. Access is only possible with the software. Compact dimensions enable installation on walls, below counters, or at other locations where rack installation is not an option.

OMNITRONIC DXO-24S

OMNITRONIC DXO-24E

OMNITRONIC DXO-26E

In 2009, the power amplifiers of the SMA series by Omnitronic had to manage the difficult task to replace their very successful predecessors after almost ten years. The new models now had to pass the testing procedures of the technical press.

Uli Hoppert’s test report in the magazine “Soundcheck” is headlined “easy play” as an allusion to the low weight of the power amplifiers. Due to the switch-mode power supply, even the large models SMA-1500 and SMA-2000 stay below 10 kg without cutting back on protective circuits or performance. Moreover, he emphasized that the test data has met the specified performance data reliably and that the protective circuits have proven to be safe. This is also approved by few customer complaints in the first year after the series’ market introduction.

In his report for the magazine “tools4music”, tester Stefan Kosmalla praised the remarkable quality of the switch-mode power supplies and the clear and thought-out design of the power amplifiers. Besides, there was also praise for the light weight and the low stand-by power consumption. All the performance data reached in the test exceeded the manufacturer’s data. Compared to three even more powerful competitors, the SMA-1500 was performing well.

Omnitronic’s SMA series benefits from the development of the switching power supply technology, which is meanwhile also affordable for beginners and ambitious hobbyists. This technology makes it not only possible to produce power amplifiers with low weight but also protects the environment: A significantly higher efficiency of the switch-mode power supplies compared to conventional toroidal transformers, reduces the power dissipation. The top models SMA-1500 and SMA-2000 can minimize the power dissipation even more, because of a staged supply voltage (Class H circuitry).

The new Omnitronic SMA series is perfect for mobile DJs or musicians – for every purpose, where light weight, high reliability and low heat emissions play an important role. Moreover, the power amplifiers are also suitable for fixed installations and other sophisticated soundings with limited budget.

The SMA series is available in four different power categories. The power amplifiers have a total weight between 5 and 9 kg and provide a nominal power from 600 to 2000 watts.

OMNITRONIC SMA-1500 Amplifier 2x750W/4 ohm

User manual SMA-1500 (PDF)

OMNITRONIC SMA-2000 Amplifier 2x1000W/4ohm

>User manual SMA-2000 (PDF)

With the new TMC-1 and TMC-2, Omnitronic introduces two compact USB MIDI controllers which are supplied with the powerful software Virtual DJ LE by Atomix Productions.

Both handy controllers can either be powered via USB or the included power unit, which does not only conserve the laptop’s battery in live operation but also increases failure safety with computer breakdowns. Both controllers were designed as wieldy desktop units to give users an alternative to the widely used rack-mounted controllers.

The Omnitronic TMC-1 is designed for DJs possessing a high-grade audio interface and thus comes without analog inputs and outputs. Despite its inexpensive price the TMC-1 features appealing haptics and boasts fine potentiometers, faders and large wheels for sound manipulation. Samples and effects of the supplied software can directly be selected via the numerous control elements.

The Omnitronic TMC-2 is all-in-one solution that combines the benefits of the TMC-1 with a fully-fledged 2-channel audio interface and several finesses. Hence it is possible to route an external line signal (e.g. coming from an iPod) directly to the master output to avoid a complete audio dropout in case of a computer breakdown. The input of the DJ microphone for emceeing and announcements is directly connected to the output and thus does not use up processor resources. What’s more, the interface has two separately controllable outputs for master, booth, and headphones. Additionally, the master signal is available at the recording output.

OMNITRONIC TMC-1	OMNITRONIC TMC-2

In Germany, the organisational and legal legislation has changed a lot during the past 10 years. The staff’s qualification in the entertainment industry was completely restructed so that every event must have its own responsible person.

In 1998 and 2007, the guideline for noise protection and the DIN-standard 15905-5 came into force, respectively. Every staff with a social security card is now to be protected against excessive noise by the BGV B3 guideline. The Association of German Discotheques (BDT e.V.) has been training DJs since 2004 in order to sensitize and educate DJs in respect to dealing with loud music and ear damage. Successfull participants can boast with a DJ licence.

These changes are meant to have events carried out and monitored by qualified staff so that neighbours, audience and employed staff will no longer be exposed to excessive noise. This sounds easy in theory, but in not so easily carried out in reality.

It is true that digital loudspeaker controllers like OMNITRONIC’s DXO-series can limit the maximum signal level effectively and protect the settings via password. Furthermore, cost-effective, portable sound-level-meters like the OMNITRONIC SLM-700 can monitor and even record the sound pressure level at the venue and in the neigbourhood. Nevertheless, these measure make sense for individual events or a number of single events, but the authorities do no longer accept such practice in discotheques or other venues with regular events and permantently installed sound equipment. Such locations require highly effective level limits which can be sealed by the authorities.

One solution will be offered by OMNITRONIC’s SPL-1: this system provides a little controller with limiter to be installed between audio mixer and controller or amplifier, respectively. The controller will be connected with a measuring microphone in order to measure the real sound pressure level at the venue. On the frontpanel, the maximum signal level and the operational modes can be adjusted under a sealable cover. Two different “traffic lights” are available for rack installation and wall installation in oder to indicate a too high sound pressure level to the operators and technicians. If the given sound pressure level is exceeded for a longer period of time, the signal will be cut until the input level will be reduced. All connections are installed in a second housing chamber in order to avoid sabotage. If the microphone cable will be cut, the audio signal will immediately be cut.

<img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-2579" title="10356251b_Omnitronic_SPL-1_Indikator" src="http://blog.steinigke.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/10356251b_Omnitronic_SPL-1_Indikator-300×225.jpg" alt="10356251 OMNITRONIC SPL-1 Indikator" width

Soon it’s September again and that means: Plasa time in London. The most important trade show in the second half of the year is once again a platform for all representatives of our industry. There is no question, that Steinigke will be present as well. You’ll find us in Earls Court 1 at stand E8.

As is usual in London we’ll offer the possibility to take a look at our current assortment. Our motto this year: the answer is in the mix. Because we are not focusing on only one special product. We are showing small but excellent progress in all areas. Why don’t you get an idea of our articles yourself and visit us in London’s Earl Court? Ask for an appointment this very day and contact our staff. Please send your requests to info@steinigke.de or call 0049-931-4061-600.

Or confirm your visit on Facebook…