dbx launches PA2 loudspeaker management system

Harman brand dbx has introduced its new DriveRack PA2 loudspeaker management system.

PA2 allows a loudspeaker system to be quickly and accurately optimised for optimum sound quality. It is designed for bands, musicians and artists carrying their own PA, and for various installed sound applications.

The original DriveRack PA provided all of the processing required between the mixer and amplifiers to optimise and protect the loudspeakers. This upgraded version features a new ‘Wizard’, enabling faster and easier set-up; a new AutoEQ and AFS, which offer "professional touring quality room EQ and incredibly accurate Advanced Feedback Suppression (AFS)"; and it can now be controlled using a mobile device or laptop using Ethernet control via an Android, iOS, Mac or Windows device.

The DriveRack PA2 can also be operated through its front-panel controls and display. Its updated AutoEQ enables automatic and precise equalisation of the speakers to the venue, resulting in smoother, more accurate in-room frequency response. A new AFS (Advanced Feedback Suppression) feature automatically targets and dials out any problematic feedback-producing frequencies as well.

The device comes with several additional system-tuning and sonic optimisation tools, including dbx compression; graphic and eight-band parametric EQ; dbx’s exclusive Subharmonic Synthesis for enhanced low-frequency response; a built-in loudspeaker crossover (for full-range, two-way and three-way systems); limiting; loudspeaker time alignment; time delay and more.

“Setting up a PA can be challenging even under the best of circumstances, and with the introduction of the DriveRack PA2, local musicians, weekend warriors, semi-pro players, wedding bands and even established artists and venues now have a remarkably effective tool for getting better live sound than ever before,” said Noel Larson, market manager, Portable PA, Tour, and Recording at Harman Signal Processing.

The dbx DriveRack PA2 will be available next month with a suggested US RRP of $499.95.

Keep up to date with the latest developments from the world of pro audio by registering for our free daily newsletter.