Probably the best single improvement you can make to a line array system?
With the advent and widespread use of large self-powered line array loudspeaker systems, the change in system signal drive requirements has been missed by many signal processor/DSP processor designers and manufacturers.
Here at ARX, we realize that the real work doesn't end at the male XLRs on the rear of the system processor. More consideration needs to be given to what follows in the signal chain, plus the demands multiple loudspeaker input impedance loads place on processor output stages.
The perceived grittiness and lack of clarity at high operating levels sometimes attributed to the loudspeaker system's performance could more likely be attributed to the inability of the preceding signal processors in the audio chain to drive low impedance loads at high voltage levels over long reactive cables, which present both a capacitive and inductive load to the output drive stage.
In short, you need a line driver that can comfortably drive multiple inputs per channel with the headroom required for accurate audio reproduction. The MaxiDrive is that line driver. Its very low output impedance virtually eliminates any deleterious cable loading effects and high-frequency loss.
Enter the MaxiDRIVE
The circuit topography chosen for the ARX MaxiDrive 's output has more in common with a power amplifier than the low current op-amp derived circuits usually favored by designers, which are expected to operate into loads of 600ohms and higher.
Improving the performance of non-powered systems as well.
The ARX MaxiDrive will of course happily provide the current drive and voltage swing to drive multiple power amplifiers in large non-self-powered systems, removing the requirement for individual signal splitters and line buffers in separate amplifier racks.
Conventional loudspeaker processor output stages can find driving multiple amplifier racks using line input transformers too complex a load to retain their low distortion performance. The ARX MaxiDrive will retain its specs while driving multiple amplifier channels.
Reliability
ARX's design team has engineered the MaxiDrive for maximum reliability, using premium components through all audio and power supply circuits.
All integrated circuits (ICs) are premium quality devices manufactured by JRC, and all Audio signal chain Electrolytic capacitors are bypassed with low-value polyester capacitors to ensure pristine high-frequency performance. Every MaxiDrive is hand soldered, with a 100% visual PCB QC check prior to assembly.
Which is why we say... You'll never compromise on quality when you choose ARX.
The SPECS
Input impedance: Balanced 40K Ohms Unbalanced 20K
Max Input Level: +22 dB
Max Gain Through Unit: +15 dB
CMRR: –60 dB @ 1 kHz
Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz ± .25 dB
Distortion: 0.004% at 1 khz, +10 dB Output
Max Output Level: +23 dB
Output Impedance: < 20 Ohms
Signal to Noise ratio: -92 dB Unweighted
Dynamic Range: 115 dB
Front Panel
• Channels 1–8 Level Controls
• Channels 1–8 Clip LEDs
• Channels 1–8 Link Switches and Status LEDs
• AC “Power Connected” LED
• Marker Panel for Labeling Individual Channel Assigns
Rear Panel
• Channels 1–8 Input and Output Balanced XLR connectors
• Wired Pin 3 –, Pin 2 +, Pin 1 Ground
• IEC Three-Pin AC Connector and Integral Fuse Holder
• Replace Fuse With Correct Value Only: 100–120V AC 5 amp, 220–240 V AC 3 amp
