Meyer Sound IntelligentDC Hits the Ceiling with New Ashby Series
Meyer Sound has announced the launch of the Ashby Series self-powered ceiling loudspeakers, the latest
addition to its growing family of installation products incorporating the company’s exclusive
IntelligentDC technology. The two new Ashby loudspeakers join seven surface mount models in the
existing IntelligentDC line, all of which offer the inherent sonic advantages of self-powered systems
along with the installation ease of distributed low-voltage systems.
The Ashby Series comprises two flush-mount models: the Ashby-5C with a 5-inch low-mid cone driver and the
Ashby-8C with an 8-inch low-mid driver. Both employ a concentric 0.75” metal dome tweeter and are housed
in integral, quick-mount metal backcans with Phoenix connectors for fast, simple installation in new or
retrofit systems. The innovative dual-driver concentric design provides a uniform 100-degree dispersion
pattern, allowing use of fewer speakers to cover a wide listening area.
As with other IntelligentDC models, Ashby loudspeakers connect to a remote MPS-488HP rack-mount unit that
supplies both balanced audio signal and 48V DC power for the amplifier. Connections are made using a
single 5-conductor cable, and because no conduit is required by fire codes in most jurisdictions, the
cables can be placed in open troughs with quick termination on 5-pin Phoenix connectors. Cable lengths
of up to 450 feet (127 meters) are accommodated with no more than 1 dB loss using 18 AWG wire, and longer
runs are possible using heavier gauges. In addition, remote monitoring of individual loudspeaker status
on a Windows or Mac computer is available with the addition of the optional RMS module, RMServer and
Compass software.
Ashby loudspeakers provide an optimal solution when uncompromising audio performance must be combined with
discreet, flush-mount installation. Typical applications include restaurants, hotels, airports and other
transit terminals, corporate board rooms, and high-end retail locations.
“The Ashby loudspeakers are a long-awaited addition to our IntelligentDC line,” says Pablo Espinosa, Meyer
Sound’s vice president of R&D and chief loudspeaker designer. “Now integrators can combine both
surface-mount and flush-mount models in the same installation using the same power supply and signal
distribution units. This allows complete freedom for architects and consultants in system design, while
also simplifying installation and reducing rack space requirements.”
In addition to the two Ashby models, the IntelligentDC line includes five full-range
loudspeakers (MM-4XP, UP-4XP, UPM-1XP, UPJunior-XP, UPJ-1XP) and two subwoofers
(MM-10 and UMS-1XP).