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Audio is becoming an increasingly important aspect of digital signage solutions. There has to be, however, a balance between ensuring the customer hears the message and making sure that the staff do not grow tired of hearing the same messages over and over.
This is where directional audio speakers come in. They ensure a targeted message to your customer while keeping the sound away from the staff or other speakers sending different messages.
With a range of speakers Aeris Solutions can help you increase the effectiveness of your digital signage solutions.
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Dakota Audio Features
Dakota Audio continues their 14 year tradition of professional grade directional speakers. Find out why the vast majority of sales are to repeat customers.
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Why is Dakota Audio the best choice for directional audio?
Dakota Audio is truly a customer focused organization. We understand that in selecting our speakers you are putting your good name on the line. We are happy to consult with you on your project to find the appropriate solution to your audio problems. Finally, Dakota Audio speakers sound like normal speakers, they just happen to be directional. Ask around about us, we take our excellent reputation very seriously.
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Compare, compare, compare...
We can't tell you how many horror stories we have heard where hundreds of competitive speakers are ripped out within weeks of being installed. But we can still recall the frustration in customer's voices as we helped them integrate Dakota Audio speakers into a post construction environment. We are always happy to help but we can't stress enough the need to compare directional audio solutions prior to purchasing; especially since many of our competitors charge very large restocking fees and none of them offer Dakota Audio's 90 day money back guarantee or five year warranty.
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What? No plexiglass dome over your focused speaker?
Not a chance. Dakota Audio's directional audio solution is controlled completely by digital signal processing ( DSP ). This means that Dakota Audio products have no need for a dome to shape the sound nor special materials to stop the sound from bouncing around the room (as with ultrasonics) By controlling the launch time of the sound from each loudspeaker, we deliver well-controlled sound dispersion, adjustability, and coverage patterns that are physically not possible with a dome. We strongly recommend comparing our solutions side by side before making any purchases.
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OK, so if there is no dome than it must be ultrasonic, right?
Dakota Audio does not use any ultrasonic, thin membrane planar, or plane wave technologies in its directional speakers. None of these technologies have the ability to even approach a natural sound reproduction other than glass breaking or seagull calls. We have considered manufacturing thin film planar or plane wave speakers, but the manufacturing expense far outways the capabilities of the device or technology. We have yet to find a pratical application where thin membrane planar or plane wave technology would be successful. If you have ideas on how thin membrane planar or plane wave audio technology could solve an audio problem for you we would be happy to discuss it.
Dakota Audio has the advantage in sound quality, low distortion, and excellent sound control. We demonstrate our arrays with full range music, speech, and other typical program material, not just sound effects...
Aside from the natural sound, in most cases Dakota Audio speaker arrays achieve better sound control. The sound from our array is concentrated in the focal area and then diffuses, therefore Dakota Audio arrays do not have the problem with a sound beam forming a virtual non-directional speaker on the first object it hits or bouncing around the listening area (as with ultrasonic solutions).
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What kind of solutions can Dakota Audio focused sound arrays provide?
Dakota Audio arrays can be built into kiosks and displays, typically in the otherwise wasted space between the display and the floor. They have been mounted in floors, both directly under the listener and in the floor in front of the listener (the pattern was offset at an angle).
Our technology allows for considerable latitude in design. Such as physical size, shape, and coverage patterns. For example, for the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, we supplied a number of round units with a hole in the center for a down light. We take our customers needs seriously and strive to meet your specifications. Give us a call, let us know your ideas and we'll make them a reality.
FA-501 36" - 915mm Overhead Directional Speaker
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The Dakota Audio FA-501 Directional Audio array is the larger version (36 inches square) of the FA-602. The FA-501 directs the audio signal straight down (as compared to the FA-602's focused audio signal that projects to the side at a fifteen degree angle).
The FA-501's full range sound capability is unmatched in the directional audio industry. It is frequently used where sound quality and control is paramount. The FA-501 is used in the Country Music Hall of Fame, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, several museums within the Smithsonian Institution, The National Constitution Center, The Corvette Museum, The Newseum, and in countless retail and digital signage applications.
The FA-501 produces a circular sound pattern enabling a variety of mounting postions from horizontally overhead to mounting vertically on a wall or under a grating in the floor. Our customers have installed these units in every configuration possible, contact Aeris to learn more.
This speaker is commonly installed in conjunction with retail digital signage, in sports bars, and in the majority of the museums in the world. (over 75% of the museums in North America alone)
The FA-501 is covered by Dakota Audio's five (5) year warranty with product registration.
During our over 14 years in business we have only had two speakers returned and while that speaks to our products abilities we also take great pride in assisting our customers find the appropriate product for their needs. contact us with your diagrams of where you want the sound to be in and out of focus and we'll help you with a decision you'll be proud of many years to come.
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FA-501 Specifications
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FA-501 36" Directional Speaker
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Dimensions:
3" x 36" x 36" (76mm x 915mm x 915mm)
Weight:
37 lbs (16.7 kg)
Grill Cover:
Flame retardant fabric covers available in: black or white
Mounting height:
Approximately: 8' (2.5m) -14' (4m)
Coverage pattern:
Adjustable from very tight (less than a meter) to three meters (10 feet)
Frequency Response:
Full Range - from ~200HZ - ~5KHZ
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Power:
16-18 VAC or 24 VDC, 15 watts (transformer included)
Input:
Line level balanced or unbalanced - Screw terminals and 1/8" mini jack
Amplification:
Built in amplifier with volume control and two position gain control
Maximum Output level:
90 dBA (internally limited for safety)
Options:
Custom covers, Cables, Weatherproofing, built in Media Player
Onboard control panel:
See below
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The FA-501 is easily field adjustable for both mounting height and pattern width.
There are two push buttons and two rows of LEDs on the top side of the array. One sets the mounting height above the floor in one foot increments from 8 to 14 feet.
The other button controls the pattern width in seven steps from tight to a circle appropriately 10 feet in diameter.
Audio input is line level, transformer isolated, either balanced or unbalanced. A volume control and two position gain switch controls the built in amplifier which accommodates a wide range of audio input levels. |
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A three position switch controls a built in equalizer with three preset adjustments to the audio frequency response for the program material.
The music position provides full range sound.
The voice with music position has a slight rise in the high frequency response to enhance voice intelligibility while maintaining good music reproduction.
The voice position reduces low frequencies for maximum voice intelligibility.The array accepts any standard line level input, either balanced or unbalanced.
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For installations where the audio level is set remotely, a switch disables the volume control.
The FA-501 focused sound arrays are powered by either 16 to 18 Volts AC or 24 Volts DC. A plug-in 16 VAC transformer is supplied for installations where local 120 power is available. Where the array power and signal cables share the same conduit, we suggest powering them with 24VDC.
Generally, the arrays are suspended by four thin (0.080 inch) aircraft cables with easily adjustable clips (supplied). Optionally, four threaded inserts, either 1/4 - 20 American or 6 millimeter metric, are available.
The units are constructed of aluminum, with a non-reflective black powder coat finish.
The snap-on fabric grill cover is provided, available in black or white. Custom covers are available in quantities of 100 or more. Logos or designs can be printed on the face of the fabric. Please add a "B" or "W" to end of the product number when ordering (i.e. FA-501B will be shipped with a black cover)
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FA-602 24" - 609mm Overhead Directional Speaker
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Dakota Audio FA-602 Directional Audio array is the smaller version (24 inches square) of the FA-501. The FA-602 is unique in that it directs the audio signal at an a fifteen degree angle to one side of the focused speaker (indicated on the back side of the speaker) instead of straight down as the FA-501 does.
The FA-602's steered audio signal is especially useful when installing in a post construction environment or when used in a suspended or acoustic tile ceiling. In these situations invariably there is some obstruction that interferes with the proper placement of the speaker. Through hundreds of installations we have found that the 15 degree offset overcomes most of these situations.
The FA-602 produces a slightly oval sound pattern enabling a variety of mounting postions from horizontally overhead to mounting vertically on a wall or under a grating in the floor. Our customers have installed these units in every configuration possible.
This speaker is commonly installed in conjunction with retail digital signage, in sports bars, and in the majority of the museums in the world. (over 75% of the museums in North America alone)
The FA-602 is covered by Dakota Audio's five (5) year warranty with product registration.
During our over 14 years in business we have only had two speakers returned and while that speaks to our products abilities we also take great pride in assisting our customers find the appropriate product for their needs. contact Aeris with your diagrams of where you want the sound to be in and out of focus and we'll help you with a decision you'll be proud of for many years to come.
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FA-602 Specifications
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FA-602 24" Directional Speaker
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Dimensions:
3" x 24" x 24" (76mm x 609mm x 609mm)
Weight:
21 lbs (9.5 kg)
Grill Cover:
Flame retardant fabric covers available in: black or white
Mounting height:
Approximately: 8' (2.5m) -14' (4m)
Coverage pattern:
Adjustable from very tight (less than a meter) to three meters (10 feet)
Frequency Response:
Full Range - from ~200HZ to ~5KHZ
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Power:
16-18 VAC or 24 VDC, 15 watts (transformer included)
Input:
Line level balanced or unbalanced - Screw terminals and 1/8" mini jack
Amplification:
Built in amplifier with volume control and two position gain control
Maximum Output level:
90 dBA (internally limited for safety)
Options:
Custom covers, Cables, Weatherproofing, built in Media Player
Onboard control panel:
See below
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The FA-602 is easily field adjustable for both mounting height and pattern width.
There are two push buttons and two rows of LEDs on the top side of the array. One sets the mounting height above the floor in one foot increments from 8 to 14 feet.
The other button controls the pattern width in seven steps from tight to a circle appropriately 10 feet in diameter.
Audio input is line level, transformer isolated, either balanced or unbalanced. A volume control and two position gain switch controls the built in amplifier which accommodates a wide range of audio input levels. |
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A three position switch controls a built in equalizer with three preset adjustments to the audio frequency response for the program material.
The music position provides full range sound.
The voice with music position has a slight rise in the high frequency response to enhance voice intelligibility while maintaining good music reproduction.
The voice position reduces low frequencies for maximum voice intelligibility.The array accepts any standard line level input, either balanced or unbalanced.
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For installations where the audio level is set remotely, a switch disables the volume control.
The FA-602 focused sound arrays are powered by either 16 to 18 Volts AC or 24 Volts DC. A plug-in 16 VAC transformer is supplied for installations where local 120 power is available. Where the array power and signal cables share the same conduit, we suggest powering them with 24VDC.
Generally, the arrays are suspended by four thin (0.080 inch) aircraft cables with easily adjustable clips (supplied). Optionally, four threaded inserts, either 1/4 - 20 American or 6 millimeter metric, are available.
The units are constructed of aluminum, with a non-reflective black powder coat finish.
The snap-on fabric grill cover is provided, available in black or white. Custom covers are available in quantities of 100 or more. Logos or designs can be printed on the face of the fabric. Please add a "B" or "W" to end of the product number when ordering (i.e. FA-602B will be shipped with a black cover)
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Dakota Audio MA-4 array
Dakota Audio MA-4 arrays are factory adjustable for both mounting height and pattern width. The frequency response is tailored for voice or incidental music. (See Product Brochure)
Interested in a Fuller Range Mini Array?
The Dakota Audio MA-4 is ideal for Flat Panel Displays (LCD or Plasma) or with Digital Signage Solutions.
The Dakota Audio Mini-Array series MA-4 is 0.9 inches (22mm) deep x 2 inches (50mm) tall and is stocked in the following lengths:
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18 inches - 457mm
22 inches - 558mm
23 inches - 584mm
25 inches - 635mm
30 inches - 762mm
36 inches - 914mm
38 inches - 965mm
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MA-4 and MA-5 Amplifier
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MA-4's may also be ordered in custom lengths to fit the application in quantities of 100 or more. Providing good sound control in a small package, the Mini-Array provides one-dimensional sound control. The pattern control is good side-to-side, while the vertical pattern is very wide.
This gives good sonic isolation between displays while providing good coverage of the listeners regardless of their height.
To further reduce the visible element of the MA-4, the amplifier (0.9 inches / 22 mm x 5 inches / 127 mm x 3.25 inches / 82mm) is remote from the speaker array, connected by a multi-conductor cable (supplied). Audio input is line level, transformer isolated. The array accepts any standard line level input, either balanced or unbalanced.
A volume control accommodates a wide range of audio input levels. For installations where the audio level is set remotely, a switch disables the volume control. The arrays are powered by a supplied plug-in 15VDC power supply.
The units are constructed of 18 gauge steel with a reinforced fabric grill. The finish is generally black non-reflective powder coating. Other finishes and colors are available by special order. MA-4's have a single mounting hole at each end that is 3/16 of an inch wide and is 3/8 of an inch from the side (centered between the top and bottom of the speaker array)
In typical applications, the Mini-arrays are mounted horizontally directly above or below a video or touch screen.
Other applications include kiosks, museums, digital signage, P.O.P. displays, trade shows, or any other application that requires one-dimensional sound control in a small package.
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MA-5 Mini Array
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The MA-5 directional line array is built on the successes of its predecessor the MA-4. Unlike the MA-4, the MA-5 now provides a much richer and fuller sound. This directional speaker's audio pattern is very similar to that of the MA-4 with very good directionality side to side with a tall audio pattern to accommodate listeners of varying heights.
The MA-5 is a single channel or mono directional speaker therefore if you desire a stereo output it would require two MA-5's.
Dakota Audio MA-5 arrays are factory adjustable for both mounting height and pattern width. The frequency response is tailored for voice or incidental music. (See product brochure).
The Dakota Audio MA-5 is ideal for Flat Panel Displays (LCD or Plasma) Out of Home advertising and with Digital Signage Solutions.
The Dakota Audio Mini-Array series MA-5 is 2 inches (50mm) deep x 2.5 inches (63mm) tall and is stocked in the following lengths:
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22 inches - 558mm
23 inches - 584mm
25 inches - 635mm
30 inches - 762mm
36 inches - 914mm
38 inches - 965mm
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MA-5's may also be ordered in custom lengths to fit the application. Providing good sound control in a small package, the Mini-Array provides one-dimensional sound control. The pattern control is good side-to-side, while the vertical pattern is very wide.
This gives good sonic isolation between displays while providing good coverage of the listeners regardless of their height.
To further reduce the visible element of the MA-5, the amplifier (0.9 inches / 22 mm x 5 inches / 127 mm x 3.25 inches / 82mm) is remote from the speaker array, connected by a multi-conductor cable (supplied). Audio input is line level, transformer isolated. The array accepts any standard line level input, either balanced or unbalanced.
A volume control accommodates a wide range of audio input levels. For installations where the audio level is set remotely, a switch disables the volume control. The arrays are powered by a supplied plug-in 15VDC power supply.
The units are constructed of 18 gauge steel with a reinforced fabric grill. The finish is generally black non-reflective powder coating. Other finishes and colors are available by special order. MA-5's have a single mounting hole at each end that is 3/16 of an inch wide and is 3/8 of an inch from the side (centered between the top and bottom of the speaker array)
In typical applications, the Mini-arrays are mounted horizontally directly above or below a video or touch screen, or both on top and bottom if stereo audio is desired. (requires two speakers and two amplifiers)
Other applications include kiosks, museums, digital signage, P.O.P. displays, trade shows, or any other application that requires one-dimensional sound control in a small package.
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MA-4 and MA-5 Amplifier
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Dakota Audio FA-603 Floor Mounted Focused Array
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The Dakota Audio FA-603 is the floor mounted version of Dakota Audio's focused arrays. Using our exclusive digital signal processing technology, these speaker arrays provide high quality sound combined with excellent sound control.
In many situations such as trade shows, or high or atrium type ceilings, it is not practical to mount an array overhead. For these situations, we offer our new floor mounted array.
The Dakota Audio FA-603 may be ordered with a perforated aluminum grill, or without the grill for installation into floor pockets.Audio input is line level, unbalanced. The array accepts any standard line level input, either balanced or unbalanced. A volume control and two position gain switch accommodate a wide range of audio input levels.
(FA-603 Brochure)
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FA-603 Specifications
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With Grill: 44.5" x 44.5" x 1" (111cm x 111cm x 2.5cm)
Without Grill: 36" x 36" x 0.87" (91cm x 91cm x 2.2cm)
Weight: 76 lbs (34.4 kg)
Cover-Finish: With Grill: Perforated Aluminum Without Grill: Black Felt
Grill Material: 0.125" Aluminum 0.125" Holes on 0.188" staggered centers
Coverage pattern: see FA-603 technical documentation
Frequency Response: see FA-603 technical documentation
Power: 24 VDC, 20 watts (transformer included)
Input: Adjustable -15DBV to +4DBV
Input Impedence: 2,000 Ohms unbalanced
Maximum Output level: 90 dBA (5 feet above center of array)
Connections: One 1/8" Stereo Phono Jack Two Phono (RCA) Jacks
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| Model FA-603 pictured with perforated aluminum grill |
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Stereo 1/8 inch and dual phono (RCA) jacks are provided. To simplify connecting, the inputs are stereo, automatically summed to monaural. For connections from the array to the amplifier box, either a flat ribbon cable or a 0.3 inch round cable can be supplied.
The array is protected from liquids and normal dirt and debris. The transducers are made of a sealed water and dirt proof material. As additional protection, a water resistant felt cover keeps debris and moisture from the transducers. For normal cleaning, the top of the array can be vacuumed periodically.
For existing construction, an aluminum grill is provided. By removing five screws, the metal grill can be removed to allow thorough cleaning of the assembly. For new construction, the array can be recessed into the floor. The shallow depth generally simplifies construction by avoiding reinforcing steel, conduits, or other obstacles in the concrete slab.
An optional floor box is available with provisions for a load-bearing grate such as Clean Tread to cover the array.
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How Dakota Audio Speakers Work
When multiple sound waves arrive at random times, some waves cancel, producing a sound wave that is less than the sum of the incoming waves.
If two or more sound waves arrive at the same place at the same time, they add and produce a sound wave that is the sum of all of the incoming sound waves.
If several speakers are mounted equal distance from the listener, the sound from each of the speakers arrives at the listener's ears at the same time. The resulting sound is considerably louder than the sound from each individual speaker.
While it wouldn't be practical to mount the speakers in a spherical array, we can achieve the same results by delaying the launch time from the speakers.
A further advantage of our technology is the flexibility that it allows. By changing the delay time, we can move the distance to the focal point, move the focal point sideways, or even change the size and shape of the focal area.
The HyperSonic Sound® technology gives you the ability to direct sound exactly where you want it.
 Now your target audience can hear exactly what you want, exactly where you want them to. Designed to target a specific area, HyperSonic Sound technology (HSS) uses a tightly focused directional beam of sound that is heard only by those in the selected area.
The high-precision targeting of HSS significantly minimizes the levels of noise pollution in both open and confined spaces and anywhere else ambient noise is an issue. HSS also ensures that your intended audience receives the messages conveyed through the system clearly and intelligibly.
The HSS Advantage:
This ability to direct or focus sound into a tight beam has a wealth of applications.
- Museums, aquariums, zoos, monuments and other self-guided or tour-led facilities can enhance the visitor experience through targeted communication about artistic displays, historical documents, artifacts, animal and marine life, without the need for headphones.
- In high ambient noise environments such as airports, rail lines, busses, commuter train stations, or port terminals, HSS can intelligibly target traveling information and local area tourist information to a specific area.
- Retailers of all types can provide targeted, unobtrusive advertising directly at the point of purchase.
Brochure Whitepaper
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