Small mini-monitor type speakers have recently become popular among those who want great sound quality with minimal visual impact.
Although the mini-monitor type of speaker can be very precise and sound better than many larger speakers, which obviously have not been manufactured with the same care, the Achilles heel of a small speaker is the bass extension and the soundstage size. A large speaker can produce low octaves and provide a large soundstage ideal for a large orchestra and loud rock; However, it can be “monstrous” and visually dominate the room. ProAc’s intention has been to obtain, with a small speaker, a sound normally associated with a larger speaker, especially in the bass response.
The chassis of the DB1 model is slightly larger than the previous model and is made with layers of different thicknesses of high-density MDF and with bituminous damping to control resonances. A new woofer design with raised structure and rear-ported linear motor system has been used. The cone is made with mica paste, covered with an elastic coating and with our acrylic phase connector. The new crossover was designed to flatten the response at high volumes and the tweeter is ProAc’s 1” silk dome, similar to the one used in the ProAc Response D2.
The DB1’s mid and high frequencies are superb and, in the ProAc tradition, with very low coloration and lots of detail. The new woofer offers fantastic bass quality, with punch and extension, sometimes more similar to that of a larger chassis. The DB1 model also offers a larger stage, normally associated with larger speakers.
The DB1 model is available in various wood finishes. Standard colors are cherry, black ash, silk white and maple. Premium finishes are rosewood and ebony.
Specifications
Nominal impedance – 8 ohms
Recommended amplification – 20 to 100W
Frequency response – 35 to 30,000 Hz +/33dB 50-20,000 Hz
Sensitivity – 87.5dB linear at 1W at 1m
Woofer – 5” (130 mm) ProAc with mica paste cone and acrylic phase connector
Tweeter – 1” dome with special cooling
Crossover – high quality components on dedicated printed circuit board with oxygen-free copper wire. Possibility of bi-wiring/bi-amplification.
Cutoff frequency – 2.9 kHz
Measurements (H x W x D): 320 x 280 x 182 mm
Weight: 8.8kg
Mode: on support
Grille: acoustically transparent crimplene
