Neumann Elevates Professional Audio with New DSP-Powered KH subwoofer series
Neumann, a name synonymous with precision and quality in professional audio, has significantly expanded its acclaimed KH monitor series with the launch of five new DSP-powered subwoofers. These additions are strategically designed to meet the evolving demands of modern audio production, post-production, and broadcast environments – especially the burgeoning world of immersive audio. This release isn’t just about adding more subwoofers; it’s about providing scalable, integrated solutions for achieving truly accurate and reliable low-frequency monitoring, regardless of studio size or complexity.
Addressing the Shift to Immersive Audio & Networked Workflows
The industry is undeniably moving towards immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos and Auro-3D. as Yasmine Riechers, CEO of Neumann, points out, “With immersive audio becoming the new standard across music, post-production, and broadcast, reliable monitoring is more vital than ever.” These new subwoofers directly address this need, offering a complete range of options to support everything from traditional stereo setups to complex, multi-channel immersive installations. Furthermore, the inclusion of Audio-over-IP (AoIP) compatibility in select models acknowledges the increasing prevalence of networked audio workflows in broadcast and professional facilities.
The KH Subwoofer Lineup: A Deep Dive
The new series comprises the KH 805 II, KH 810 II, KH 870 II, and their AoIP counterparts, the KH 810 II AES67 and KH 870 II AES67.Let’s break down each model and its intended submission:
* KH 805 II: This is the high-output workhorse for stereo configurations. Building on the foundation of the KH 750 DSP, the KH 805 II doubles the output power and significantly improves headroom. It’s an ideal partner for Neumann’s KH 120 II, KH 150, or KH 310 monitors, delivering a powerful and controlled low-end for critical stereo mixing and mastering.
* KH 810 II: Designed for the demands of immersive audio, the KH 810 II introduces advanced multichannel bass management, capable of supporting setups up to 7.1.4 and controlling up to eleven individual monitors. Sharing the acoustic design of the KH 805 II, it provides a seamless transition into more complex monitoring environments.
* KH 870 II: For larger rooms and applications requiring significant monitoring power, the KH 870 II delivers twice the output of the KH 810 II while retaining the same robust multichannel management capabilities. This model is perfectly suited for pairing with Neumann’s larger-format monitors like the KH 420, ensuring a cohesive and powerful monitoring experience.
* KH 810 II AES67 & KH 870 II AES67: These models bring the power and flexibility of the KH 810 II and KH 870 II into AoIP-based workflows. Supporting 12 AES67 input channels and full compatibility with industry standards like ST 2110,ST 2022-7 redundancy,RAVENNA,NMOS,and Dante stream management,they seamlessly integrate into modern broadcast and networked audio infrastructures.
Neumann’s DSP Advantage: precision Alignment & Optimized Performance
Central to the performance of these subwoofers is Neumann’s advanced digital signal processing (DSP) technology.This isn’t just about power; it’s about control. The DSP engine allows for precise system alignment using Neumann’s MA 1 Automatic Monitor Alignment tool (sold separately). MA 1 goes beyond simple EQ adjustments, optimizing the entire monitoring system – including both analog and DSP-equipped KH speakers – for the specific acoustics of the room and ensuring phase consistency across all frequencies.
stephan Mauer, Head of Product at Neumann, emphasizes the improvements: “Our new subwoofers offer significant advancements over their predecessors, with dramatically reduced distortion and port noise.” he further highlights the versatility: “They can be combined with both analog and DSP-controlled KH Line studio monitors, making them the perfect tool for upgrading an existing stereo system and/or expanding it for immersive monitoring. They also offer the option of precise room alignment via MA 1 of the entire system. Simply put: no more low-end guesswork.”
Consistent Low-Frequency Extension & Complete ecosystem
All models in the new KH subwoofer range deliver a remarkably consistent low-frequency extension down to 16 Hz. This uniform response is crucial for