
d&b audiotechnik announces 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 behavior in a passive design, enabling single channel amplifier operation - an industry first in the compact line array category,” according to the announcement.
The CCL features a revised implementation of a patented d&b design to bring the 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.
The system features two 7" front-firing drivers, two 5" side and rear drivers and two 1.75" high-frequency transducers of a completely new design. “This unique approach combines superior low-frequency and broadband directivity control with exceptional high-frequency headroom and minimal distortion, unmatched by anything else on the market,” the announcement continues.
The CCL is designed to reduce system infrastructure complexity and cost. Its lightweight, compact form factor utilizes less truck space and fewer amplification and cabling resources in mobile applications. In installed scenarios, the cardioid low frequency behavior is designed to improve the perceived sound quality in both indoor and outdoor venues.
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 355 mm) and light weight (18 kg) are designed 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 is designed for use 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 Loudspeakers 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 first hand.