November 29, 2007
Sensaphonics has announced the introduction of a hardwired version of its 3D Active Ambient IEM System. Designed as a standalone system for drummers, keyboardists and other stationary performers, the new 3DAA-HW Active Ambient uses highly sensitive, precision-equalized microphones embedded in soft silicone earphones to pick up stage ambience with natural sound quality and accurate directional cues. This binaural ambient signal is sent to the 3D-HW bodypack mixer, where it is combined with the monitor feed from the console with reportedly zero latency.
“Being able to hear naturally without removing your earphones is an amazing experience for performers,” notes Sensaphonics president and CEO Michael Santucci. “The 3D Active Ambient has revolutionized the on-stage experience for artists like Steven Tyler and Brooks & Dunn. No one else offers anything like it, and we’re pleased to now offer all those benefits to drummers and keyboard players with the hardwired version of the 3D-HW Active Ambient.”
Sensaphonics reports the 3D Active Ambient is the only in-ear system that provides full ambient sound for the performer while keeping the ears fully sealed. This allows the performer to have normal conversations and hear audience response with the earphones still in place. Drummers, according to Sensaphonics, will especially appreciate being able to hear their kit naturally, eliminating lengthy setups at soundcheck.
The 3DAA-HW Active Ambient system has two operating modes, Perform and Full Ambient, selected with a simple toggle switch. In Perform Mode, the monitor mix level is controlled with a volume knob on top of the bodypack mixer, where it is combined with the ambient sound from the earphone mics. In Full Ambient Mode, the on-stage ambient sound is presented at unity gain while IEM levels are dynamically reduced, allowing the performer to hear normally, with full directionality, without removing the earphones.
The core of the system is the 3D ambient earphone set, available in two custom-fit, high-performance versions. The 3D-1 is a single-driver, balanced armature design offering the same true-to-life performance as the acclaimed ProPhonic 2X-S, while the 3D-2 is a dual-driver version provides the same sonic signature, but with more headroom and extended bass response.
Sensaphonics stated in a news release that by using a patent-pending active signal processing technique for smooth, full-bandwidth frequency response and dynamic range with zero latency, the 3D Active Ambient represents the state of the art in high performance in-ear monitoring. A switchable on-board limiter function provides protection from unexpected loud sounds, acting independently on the ambient signal and monitor mix. A 9-foot dual-XLR cable is provided to connect the monitor mix output to the 3D-HW bodypack mixer’s LEMO input.
The 3D Active Ambient will be available for demo in the Sensaphonics booth, #6852 in Hall A, at the upcoming NAMM show in Anaheim, January 17-20, 2008. For more information, including a referral list of certified audiologists, please visit www.sensaphonics.com.
Source: Sensaphonics
