Need help?Do you have a question about the d&b audiotechnik E8 and is the answer not in the manual?
Addresses dangers from high sound pressure levels and unsafe loudspeaker deployment practices.
Warns about magnetic fields generated by loudspeakers affecting sensitive electronic equipment and media.
Details the E8's design, coaxial driver, horn, enclosure, and features like handles and pole mounts.
Explains the NLT4 F/M connectors and pin assignments for standard and optional WR/SC variants.
Details amplifier compatibility, standard/passive operation, controller settings (CUT, HFA, CPL), and E-PAC usage.
Presents isobar diagrams illustrating the E8's dispersion angle over frequency in horizontal and vertical planes.
Lists detailed system and loudspeaker data including frequency response, impedance, power handling, and dimensions.
Declares conformity of the E8 loudspeaker with relevant EC directives and applicable amendments.
Provides guidance on the proper disposal of electrical and electronic equipment according to national regulations.
The d&b E8 is a high-performance, multipurpose loudspeaker designed for a wide range of audio applications. Its compact and versatile design makes it suitable for both portable and installed sound systems, offering flexibility in deployment and orientation.
The E8 loudspeaker is a two-way passive design, meaning it incorporates a built-in passive crossover network to divide the audio signal between its high-frequency and low-frequency components. This design simplifies setup by requiring only a single amplifier channel per loudspeaker. At its core, the E8 features an integrated 8-inch driver with a neodymium magnet and a 1-inch exit coaxial driver. The coaxial arrangement ensures a point source radiation, which contributes to a coherent and consistent sound field.
A key feature of the E8 is its constant directivity horn loading. The horn provides a nominal dispersion pattern of 90° horizontally by 50° vertically. A significant advantage of this design is the ability to rotate the HF horn through 90° within the coaxial driver assembly. This allows users to easily change the dispersion pattern to 50° horizontally by 90° vertically without the need for specialized tools, adapting the loudspeaker to different acoustic environments or coverage requirements. This rotational capability is particularly useful when the cabinet is used in various orientations, such as vertically for main PA or horizontally as a stage monitor.
The E8 is designed to be driven by d&b amplifiers, which provide the necessary processing and protection for optimal performance. These amplifiers offer various controller settings, including CUT, HFA (High Frequency Attenuation), and CPL (Coupling) functions, allowing for precise acoustic adjustments. The CUT mode reduces the low-frequency level, configuring the cabinet for use with actively driven d&b subwoofers. The HFA mode rolls off the high-frequency response, providing a natural and balanced sound when the cabinet is placed close to listeners or used in delay applications. The CPL function compensates for coupling effects with boundary surfaces or when the cabinet is used as a stage monitor, offering adjustable low-frequency boost or attenuation to achieve a balanced frequency response.
The E8's enclosure is constructed from polyurethane integral hard foam with an impact-resistant paint finish, ensuring durability for both touring and fixed installations. Its cabinet shape allows for flexible deployment, whether in a vertical or horizontal orientation, or as a stage monitor. The front of the loudspeaker is protected by a rigid metal grille backed by acoustically transparent foam, safeguarding the drivers from physical damage.
For ease of rigging and installation, the E8 cabinet includes a handle, a pole mount socket, and six M10 threaded inserts. These inserts are compatible with various d&b rigging accessories, such as flying brackets and adapters, enabling secure and versatile mounting options. An additional M10 thread in the rear panel provides a connection point for a safety wire, enhancing safety in flown applications.
The connector panel of the E8 is recessed and tilted, which is a thoughtful design choice, especially when the cabinet is used as a stage monitor. This orientation ensures that cables are neatly managed and less prone to accidental disconnection or damage. The cabinet is fitted with NLT4 F/M connectors, with all four pins wired in parallel. This allows for direct connection to a second cabinet, facilitating daisy-chaining in larger systems. Pins 2+/2- are designated for actively driven subwoofers, enabling integrated system solutions.
Special color (SC) variants are available, offering aesthetic flexibility to match specific installation requirements. These versions come without a high stand flange and handles, with the respective openings covered by plates in the cabinet color, providing a clean and discreet appearance.
For outdoor or challenging environmental conditions, a Weather Resistant (WR) option is available. WR cabinets feature an impact and weather-protected black PCP (Polyurea Cabinet Protection) finish. These cabinets are equipped with a recessed connector panel that includes a Faston type connector (2 x 6.3 mm, female). A cover plate, which accepts single or dual PG cable glands, is enclosed, allowing for a fixed connection cable to be securely installed and protected from the elements.
Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and reliable performance of the E8 loudspeaker. The design facilitates several maintenance tasks. The front grille can be easily removed by undoing quick locks at the top and bottom, providing access to the HF horn for rotation. This process requires a screwdriver or an appropriate coin. When rotating the horn, users are instructed to pick it at its outer edges and turn it until it snaps into the desired orientation, then relocate and fix the front grille, ensuring both quick locks are correctly engaged.
For WR option cabinets, the fixed connection cable installation is straightforward. It involves inserting the cable through the PG screwing, connecting the male connector to the female connector, pushing the cover plate towards the connector panel, and fixing it with four countersunk screws. This design allows for easy replacement or inspection of the connection if needed.
Users are advised to regularly check the loudspeaker housings and accessories for visible signs of wear and tear and to replace them when necessary. Similarly, all load-bearing bolts in the mounting devices should be checked regularly. These practices help prevent potential material damage and ensure safety, especially in mobile deployments or installations where the loudspeakers are flown. The modular nature of d&b systems and the availability of specific accessories mean that components can be maintained or replaced as needed, extending the operational life of the product.
General| Type | 2-way passive loudspeaker |
|---|---|
| Coverage Angle (h x v) | 90° x 50° |
| Connectors | 2 x NL4 |
| Impedance | 8 ohms |
| Components | 1 x 8'' LF driver, 1 x 1.4'' HF driver |
| Enclosure Material | Birch plywood |
To Next Page
