SPL offers an active, analog 2-way crossover with crossover, which works without DSPs and without additional AD/DA conversion. Crossover frequencies and the phase position can be set in the analog level with real switches and controllers in real time using SPL´s proprietary VOLTAiR technology. The result: overdrive resistance (headroom), dynamic range and great sound.
While many crossovers work digitally and this aspect is sold as a big plus, Crossover works completely analog. The advantage is that applied signals are not exposed to any significant processing process and are not impaired by additional conversion. Audiophiles will hear the difference and will appreciate the 120V-VOLTAIR technology with all its analog features.
Divided into the LOW section for subwoofers (mono or stereo) and the MID-HI section for top/main speakers, crossover frequencies from 70Hz to 120Hz can be set individually in 10Hz steps. The LP filter has a slope of 24dB/octave, while the MID-HIpass filter can be switched from 12dB to 24dB/octave. The latter setting works in Linkwitz/Riley design.
If required, phase control to phase 0° or -180° can be activated via toggle switch on the crossover. Based on these two settings, the phase can be varied from 0° to +180° using the phase control, allowing 360° phase control. If the control is not required, it can of course be switched off, which leads to an even shorter signal flow.
The low section offers a toggle switch for mono/stereo applications. If you want to connect two subwoofers (for L and R), use the stereo setting. In mono applications, the crossover generates a mono signal of the LOW frequencies and outputs this on both LOW outputs (L+R). The user now has the choice which one he wants to use.
For example, if you want to use the top/main speakers in full range mode and only the LOW filter for the roll off of a certain subwoofer frequency, you simply use the MID-HI filter, which can be easily switched on and off.
To protect the power amplifier from inaudible, very low frequencies, which otherwise lead to strong vibrations of the housing, the integrated low cut filter can be switched on. This works at 20Hz and filters out underlying frequencies.
X-over:
Besides the adjustment and alignment possibilities of the crossover and the phase, the volume is the third parameter that can be influenced by a large potentiometer. The output volume of the subs can be varied from -10dB to +10dB. In addition to adjusting the loudspeaker system, it can also be used to add depth to music with a low bass content (e.g. vinyl).
The volume level is indicated by the two clearly arranged VU meters. Due to the mechanical design, the measurement is decelerated, which leads to a more comfortable reading. Since the crossover works after the preamp, the level is rather low, so that the needle is usually on the far left. For a better visual impression, the sensitivity of the VU meters can be increased with the VU toggle switch. Another toggle switch allows you to select the displayed volume of input levels, LOW or MID HI sections.
The crossover can also be switched on with up to four output stages simultaneously (wire linked). If the preamp is a phonitor x or a director, the crossover and up to four output stages can be switched on and off together. All you have to do is connect the AMP CTL sockets with a 3.5mm jack cable.