ARTCOUSTIC Reaches New “Lows” with Innovative Bass Processor

The DBO-1 Digital Bass Optimizer dramatically enhances bass performance while actually reducing demands on speakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers

February 16, 2003 – Mission Viejo, CA – ARTCOUSTIC has introduced the innovative DBO-1 Digital Bass Optimizer for use with its on-wall loudspeakers and subwoofers as well as with traditional speakers and subs. Based on the remarkable MaxxBass® technology from Waves Audio Ltd. and drawn from the latest research in psychoacoustics, the DBO-1 increases the perceived level of bass by adding harmonics to the original frequencies.

The DBO-1 is a cost-effective solution for improving the bass performance of any loudspeaker or subwoofer. This remarkable processor can extend the apparent depth of the bass by as much as 1-1/2 octaves, without requiring the speaker or subwoofer to actually deliver those signals, and without requiring additional amplifier power. This allows you to improve the bass performance of your existing system, or purchase smaller speakers and amplifiers in the first place.

In commercial applications, the use of the DBO-1 on main speakers and subwoofers can result in significant savings on amplification. Even in-wall and in-ceiling speakers used for “background” music or PA applications deliver richer and deeper sound when used with the DBO-1.

The DBO-1 is as easy to install and use as a conventional equalizer. Just connect it between your stereo or two-channel audio source and power amplifier, then adjust the input, frequency, and output controls to taste.

LISTEN BEAUTIFULLY… AND BASSFULLY

The DBO-1 offers an easy and inexpensive way to experience extraordinary bass from smaller ARTCOUSTIC models, such as the Diablo Monitor, the DF65-50, and the Diablo Active Subwoofer. When used with larger ARTCOUSTIC speakers, such as the DF75-55, the DBO-1 can potentially eliminate the need for a separate subwoofer, depending on room size and the listener’s expectations. Using the DBO-1 with ARTCOUSTIC’s range of on-wall subwoofers will reduce amplifier power demands, while at the same time enhancing total bass output.

THE ARTCOUSTIC PRODUCT LINE
ARTCOUSTIC loudspeakers are THIN – as slim as 2.5 inches – and hang on the wall like picture frames. Their removable front screens are covered in a choice of elegant fabrics, or can be printed with artwork or photography. Their wood frames come in silver or black, or can be finished to suit. Like any quality furnishing, ARTCOUSTIC loudspeakers can be customized to complement or even define the look of a space.

The current ARTCOUSTIC line comprises 14 models of loudspeakers and subwoofers, ranging in size from the Diablo Mini (measuring 10.6”H x 8.3”W x 2.5”D) to the DF130-90 (51.2”H x 34.5”W x 5”D). The three on-wall subwoofers (exact same look as the full-range speakers) are joined by a compact powered subwoofer that sits on the floor. Suggested retail prices start at $1100 per pair for the Diablo Mini. Complete 5.1 home theater speaker systems begin at $5,200.

The innovative DF-MULTI deserves special focus. It is a long, narrow speaker designed to mount on the wall beneath a plasma or other flat-screen video display. It contains all three front-channel speakers for a home theater: left, center, and right. (It can also be used strictly as a center channel, matched with other ARTCOUSTIC speakers to the left and right of the video display; or as a one-piece stereo left/right speaker system.) The MULTI is sized to match the width of a typical 42” plasma TV and is offered with optional adaptor screens to match 50” and 60” displays.


The ARTCOUSTIC line also includes smartly styled LINAX equipment storage cabinetry as well as flat speaker wire that is so thin it disappears when taped to the wall and painted. Room acoustics are addressed with the stylish ABCOUSTIC Absorbing Panels. These ultra-thin, frameless sound absorbers – also available in a choice of fabrics or printed art – help improve the acoustics of a listening space while serving as attractive design elements.

ARTCOUSTIC TECHNOLOGY

ARTCOUSTIC loudspeakers employ high-quality Scandinavian speaker drivers, hand-built crossovers, and low-resonance cabinet material. Unlike membrane-based “flat” speakers, they are true dynamic loudspeakers, delivering the full range and high output levels associated with studio-quality loudspeakers. To obtain this lofty performance from a thin cabinet, ARTCOUSTIC uses a proprietary technology, called QPC, which allows its speakers to provide bass performance equal to speakers having at least twice the internal volume. (QPC addresses the speaker’s “Q” and Pressure Control, achieving the behavior of a much larger cabinet).

(Note: ARTCOUSTIC speakers are not to be confused with NXT™-type membrane speakers, which are typically used with computers or for low-level background music. ARTCOUSTIC speakers are also differentiated from “electrostatic” flat-panel designsthat radiate sound from both the front and back of the speaker and hence must be positioned some distance from the wall.)

BROCHURES AND HIGH RESOLUTION PHOTOGRAPHY

Brochures, technical documentation, and high-resolution photography are available for download from the company web site: http://www.ArtcousticUSA.com/.

AVAILABLE NOW
Designed and engineered in Denmark, ARTCOUSTIC products are distributed and marketed in North America by StJohn Group. Qualified consumers who wish to audition the speakers will be directed to an authorized dealer or to the nearest “auditioning” dealer. Consumers may also purchase directly through StJohn Group at suggested retail prices. Contact StJohn Group for details.

About StJohn Group

StJohn Group is a distribution and marketing company specializing in products and services for the custom integration (CI) market. The company’s two founding partners – industry veterans John Caldwell and Kevin Leja – have more than 40 years experience in virtually every facet of the consumer electronics industry. StJohn Group is pioneering a New School approach to products and marketing strategies –one that will help move CI dealers closer to the mainstream of the home design market.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Sales: John Caldwell – 805-647-3779

Administration: Kevin Leja

24531 Venus, Mission Viejo, CA 92691

Phone: 949-588-0075 • Fax: 949-699-6882

E-mail:

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