Tannoy reworks the classics

Tannoy has unveiled the third generation of its Ceiling Monitor Series (CMS) in-ceiling speakers as well as updating its QFlex steerable solution.

The new line of dual concentric-equipped CMS 3.0 speakers comprises five models – CMS 403DCe, CMS 503DC, CMS 603DC and CMS 803DC, which replace existing models, plus an all-new CMS 803DCQ 8-inch high-Q model, designed for high-ceiling/longer throw applications. At the heart of each device is the manufacturer’s next-generation dual concentric transducer which features a fundamentally new design. The new driver features Omnimagnet technology and a Torus Ogive Waveguide assembly which reportedly delivers more consistent and controlled directivity, with notable improvement in higher frequency ranges, in comparison to previous generations. According to Tannoy, the new design also delivers improved time alignment and greater coherence between LF and HF.

In addition to new driver technology, CMS 3.0 also benefits from new magnetically adhering grilles, available in either Classic (traditional, inset within the bezel) or new Arco style – designed to conceal the entire unit including the bezel beneath a grille. A new moulded baffle design contributes further to the loudspeaker performance, providing subtle extension to the waveguide effect of the driver itself. Around the back, there’s an all-new clamp design which offers greater extension (for thicker ceiling panels) and a locking design that prevents over-screwing that could lead to clamps falling out during installation. Each model (except CMS 401DCe) is available in both PI (pre-install) and BM (blind-mount) variants, as with previous CMS Series iterations.

All models are 16-ohm, making them suitable for use in low-impedance systems, while additionally featuring an integrated low insertion loss line transformer for 70V/100V distributed applications.

The news surrounding QFlex highlights a number a number of important advances and updates to the digital beam steering loudspeaker array. The manufacturer recently announced the product would now ship with on-board voiced steering presets, allowing users to select between two different steering files. The company is now introducing a gang-loading feature, which makes it possible to load multiple steering files into a single QFlex column, with master and any associated slave devices updated automatically.

Tannoy is also introducing the VNET-Ethernet interface to QFlex, allowing installers to use its VNET network over Ethernet to deploy the system in very large scale or complex networks. There is also an update to the VNET software featuring an improved GUI which according to the manufacturer adds ‘a new level of functionality and improved layout’. Another software-related update will see the integration of QFlex BeamEngine with EASE Focus.

Finally, to complement QFlex and other VNET enabled loudspeakers, Tannoy is also introducing a new range of subwoofers, VSXNET. Available in 12.2BP, 15DR and 18DR variants, all VSXNET models are powered, network enabled subwoofers, designed for applications where an installed VNET system needs to deliver more low-frequency response.

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