PMC Demonstrates FREE™ Speakers At AES Convention

At the 123rd AES Convention, The Professional Monitor Company demonstrated the revolutionary FREE™ Speaker, an audiophile Wi-Fi solution that integrates the latest digital wireless connectivity devices with the company's professionally proven ATL™ technology. FS1 is a floor-standing unit available in satin white or satin black finish, with no visible connections on the cabinet's exterior; all connections—IEC mains/fuse holder socket, RJ45 network connection and audio input—are recessed within the base. MAPP: $6,499.00 each pair.

Designed by FREE and manufactured by PMC, each unit comprises a custom-designed audiophile digital amplifier and ATL/Advanced Transmission Line loudspeaker. Space is provided within the cabinet for a Wi-Fi unit. "The Free FS1 Wi-Fi-capable Speaker provides lifestyle customers with a wonderfully simple and truly fantastic sounding multi-room audio system," considers Maurice Patist, PMC-USA's VP of Sales & Marketing. "The units require no pre-wiring and are expandable. Customers can take their investment with them whenever they move house."

Free Speaker is designed for use with SONOS® ZP80™ or Apple® Airport Express® and Apple TV™ Wi-Fi connectivity units. "Excellent real-world wireless range is achieved between units," Patist says, "especially using the ZP80 mesh network unit. The only requirement is power and a network connection." Removing a small panel in the base exposes an area into which the wireless unit can be placed and connected to the FS1's proprietary DSP-controlled digital power amplifier. The SONOS option also provides an additional input per loudspeaker, to accommodate additional line-level inputs, such as an iPod,® sound from TV/radio, etc.

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An ultra-efficient digital power amplifier is described as being 95% efficient, thereby reducing heat and eliminating the need for unsightly heat sinks on the cabinet's exterior. RF emissions are far below other digital modules, with the added benefit of a large ultra-low noise, linear power supply that offers ample current delivery for 50W to the HF and 80W to the LF drivers. An integral DSP control provides ultimate driver optimization and complete control of crossover-filter roll-off slopes between drivers. Steep 12 dB/octave slopes create a superb, naturally wide dispersion and enhanced power handling for both tweeter and bass unit. Teamed with ATL technology, the FS1's design creates a far richer and fulfilling sound throughout the listening space from a chic, diminutive form.

Physical & Electrical Specifications:

• HF unit: 1.06-inch (27 mm), twin-chamber soft dome driver with high performance ferro-fluid cooling.
• LF unit: 5.51-inch (140 mm), doped bass driver with cast magnesium chassis.
• Dimensions: 35.8 inches (910 mm) by 8.5 inches (215 mm) by 10.8 inches (275 mm)—HxWxD, including feet.
• Weight: 33 pounds (15 kg)—single unit.
• Finishes: Satin Black or Satin White.
• Wi-Fi: Internal direct phono connection to digital amplifier for wireless receiver.
• Inputs: Switched direct/wireless input into amplifier to accommodate direct input from iPod® or other audio product.
• Power: 115/230V (switchable); internal power connection for wireless unit.

For more information, visit their web site at www.pmc-speakers.com.