D&B Audiotechnik Y Series Package – Line Array System (Y-Series)

The D&B Audiotechnik Y Series Package is a professional mid-size line array system designed for touring, festivals, corporate events, and fixed installations where precise coverage, scalability, and consistent sound performance are required.

Positioned between compact systems and large-format arrays, the Y Series package combines Y8 and Y12 line array loudspeakers with Y-SUB or V-SUB subwoofers, forming a complete solution capable of delivering high SPL, controlled dispersion, and flexible deployment across a wide range of venues.

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Key Specifications

System Type: Passive 2-way line array system
Main Components: Y8 (80°), Y12 (120°), Y-SUB / V-SUB
Drivers (Y8 / Y12): 2 × 8″ LF drivers, 1 × 1.4″ HF compression driver
Horizontal Dispersion:

• Y8: 80° constant directivity
• Y12: 120° constant directivity

Frequency Response (–5 dB):

• Y8 / Y12: ~67 Hz – 18 kHz
• Y-SUB: ~39 Hz – 140 Hz

Max SPL (1 m, free-field, crest-factor 4):

• Up to ~139 dB (with D80 amplifier)

Nominal Impedance: 8 Ω
Cabinets per Amplifier Channel: Typically 2 × Y8 or Y12 per channel

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Physical & Mechanical Details

Construction: Marine plywood cabinet with PCP (Polyurea Cabinet Protection) finish
Grille: Rigid steel grille with acoustically transparent foam backing
Rigging: Integrated 3-point rigging system for fast and secure deployment
Dimensions (Y8/Y12): ~240 × 600 × 355 mm
Weight: ~19 kg per cabinet

Subwoofer Construction (Y-SUB / V-SUB):

• Bass-reflex (Y-SUB) or cardioid (V-SUB) design
• High-strength plywood enclosure
• Integrated rigging hardware for flown or stacked setups

Connectors: EP5 as standard, optional NL4 configurations

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Key Features & Configuration

Dual Dispersion Options:
The combination of Y8 (80°) and Y12 (120°) allows engineers to optimize horizontal coverage depending on venue size and audience width.

Compact High-Output Design:
Delivers strong SPL performance from a lightweight enclosure, reducing transport and rigging requirements.

Flexible Subwoofer Integration:
Supports both standard bass-reflex (Y-SUB) and cardioid (V-SUB) configurations for controlled low-frequency performance.

Scalable Array Architecture:
Arrays can be configured from small systems (4 cabinets per side) up to large deployments (16+ cabinets per side).

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Array Configuration & Rigging

Vertical Array Deployment:
Supports flown arrays with adjustable splay angles between cabinets for precise vertical coverage shaping.

Splay Angle Range:
0°–14° adjustable increments allow accurate array curvature.

Rigging System:
Quick-lock rigging mechanism enables fast assembly and disassembly in touring environments.

Deployment Options:

• Flown arrays for large-scale coverage
• Ground-stacked systems for outdoor events
• Hybrid systems with delays and front-fills

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Acoustic Modes & DSP Compatibility

When used with compatible d&b amplifiers (D20, D80, D40, D90), the system supports:

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

HFC (High-Frequency Compensation):
Compensates for high-frequency loss over long distances.

CPL (Coupling):
Balances low-frequency buildup in larger arrays.

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System Integration

Typical Y Series Package includes:

• Y8 / Y12 line array cabinets
• Y-SUB or V-SUB subwoofers
• D&B amplifiers (D20, D80, D40, D90)
• Rigging and transport hardware

Recommended Setup:

• 6–12 cabinets per side for medium events
• 12–16+ cabinets per side for large-scale deployments
• Subwoofer arrays configured for cardioid or standard operation

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Performance Characteristics

The Y Series system is known for:

• Clear vocal intelligibility across the audience
• Even sound distribution from front to back
• Controlled dispersion with minimal reflections
• Balanced low-frequency integration with sub systems

In real-world applications, it delivers a predictable and consistent sound field, reducing the need for extensive system tuning.

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Ideal Applications

Touring and rental systems
Festivals and outdoor events
Corporate and live productions
Medium to large concert venues
Installations requiring scalable line array solutions

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System Advantages in Practice

Efficient Deployment:
Lightweight cabinets and simple rigging reduce setup time.

Scalability:
System can be adapted to different event sizes without changing core components.

Cost Efficiency:
Lower transport and labor requirements compared to larger systems.

Flexibility:
Can be configured for a wide range of acoustic environments.

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Summary

The D&B Audiotechnik Y Series Package is a versatile and scalable line array system delivering high output, controlled coverage, and reliable performance across a wide range of professional audio applications.

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Bottom Line

For professional audio systems in Europe, the Y Series package offers a balanced solution between power, flexibility, and efficiency, making it one of the most practical choices for mid-size to large-scale sound reinforcement.