D&B Audiotechnik Q1 – Passive 2-Way Line Array Loudspeaker (Q-Series)

The D&B Q1 is a professional-grade passive 2-way line array loudspeaker designed for vertical array deployment in touring, festivals, and fixed installations. It combines dual 10″ dipole low-frequency drivers with a high-frequency compression driver and toroidal waveguide, delivering precise coverage, high output, and consistent performance across the audience.

Engineered by d&b audiotechnik, the Q1 remains a widely trusted solution in Europe for medium- to long-throw applications, where controlled dispersion and scalability are essential.

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Key Specifications

Drivers: 2 × 10″ LF (dipole), 1 × 1.3″ HF compression driver
Horizontal Dispersion: 75° constant directivity down to ~400 Hz
Vertical Dispersion (HF): 15° per cabinet; adjustable splay from 0°–14°
Frequency Response (–5 dB):

• Standard mode: ~60 Hz – 17 kHz
• CUT mode: ~100 Hz – 17 kHz
  Max SPL (1 m, pink noise, crest-factor 4):
• Up to 139 dB (with D12, D20, D80 amplifiers)
• ~135 dB (with D6 or 10D)
  Power Handling: 400 W RMS / 1,600 W peak (10 ms crest)
  Nominal Impedance: 8 Ω
  Cabinets per Amplifier Channel: Typically 2 × Q1 per channel

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Construction & Rigging

Enclosure: Marine plywood cabinet with impact-resistant finish
Grille: Metal grille with acoustically transparent foam backing
Handles: Integrated side handles for transport
Rigging Hardware: Front and rear rigging points with locking pins and splay links

Rigging Capacity:
Supports flown arrays of up to 20 cabinets, allowing full system scalability from small to large deployments.

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Key Features & Configuration

Dipole Low-Frequency Design:
The dual 10″ dipole configuration reduces rearward energy, improving low-frequency control and reducing unwanted reflections.

Toroidal Waveguide Technology:
Provides smooth high-frequency response and consistent horizontal dispersion across the audience area.

Variable Splay Angles:
Adjustable angles between cabinets (0°–14°) enable precise array curvature, ensuring even vertical coverage.

High SPL Capability:
Delivers up to 139 dB, making it suitable for medium to large-scale events.

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Acoustic Modes & DSP Integration

The Q1 relies on compatible d&b amplifiers for optimized system control.

Available Modes

CUT Mode:
Reduces low-frequency output when used with subwoofers, improving system balance.

HFC (High-Frequency Compensation):
Compensates for air absorption in long-throw applications, maintaining clarity at distance.

CPL (Coupling):
Balances low-frequency buildup in longer arrays for consistent tonal response.

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Mechanical Dimensions & Connectivity

Dimensions (H × W × D): ~308 × 580 × 410 mm
Weight: ~22 kg
Connectors: Dual NL4 (parallel wiring)
Optional: EP5 connectors for SenseDrive compatibility

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System Integration

The Q1 is typically deployed with:

• Q-SUB subwoofers
• D&B amplifiers (D12, D20, D80, D30)
• Full Q-Series rigging systems

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Deployment Configurations

• Vertical arrays of 2–20 cabinets
• Flown arrays for large-scale coverage
• Ground-stacked systems with subwoofer support

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Typical Use Cases

Touring Systems:
Medium- to long-throw applications requiring scalable line arrays.

Festivals & Outdoor Events:
Provides consistent coverage across large audiences.

Fixed Installations:
Used in venues requiring controlled dispersion and professional-grade output.

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Performance in Real-World Applications

The Q1 is known for:

• Clear and consistent vocal projection
• Even sound distribution across audience areas
• Controlled low-frequency behavior due to dipole design

In practical deployments, it delivers a balanced and predictable sound field, reducing the need for excessive system correction.

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Summary

The D&B Audiotechnik Q1 is a versatile and high-performance line array loudspeaker, designed for scalable systems where precision and reliability are critical.

It combines:

• Controlled dispersion
• High output capability
• Flexible array configuration
• Seamless integration with d&b amplification and sub systems

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Bottom Line

For professional audio applications in Europe, the Q1 remains a proven and efficient solution for building medium- to large-scale line array systems with consistent coverage and reliable performance.