Published 6/5/04
Tannoy Ellipse iDP monitors
Tannoy have added two new Ellipse monitors to their range, featuring the same unusual driver technology and wide frequency response as the original Ellipse, reviewed in SOS March 2003 (read review), but with the addition of sophisticated DSP room optimisation.
Tannoy, who are now part of the TC Group, developed their new iDP (Interactive Digital Programming) system in partnership with TC Electronic, whose DSP technology is also used in Dynaudio’s Air-series digital monitors.
The two new models, the Ellipse iDP 8 and Ellipse iDP 10, feature eight- and 10-inch dual-concentric drivers respectively, as well as a Supertweeter mounted on top of the non-resonant oval enclosure, and two front-firing bass ports.
The monitors are equipped with Class-D digital amplifiers, which accept both analogue input and digital input up to 192kHz, and deliver a frequency response which, Tannoy claim, extends above 50kHz. The monitors can be arranged in a variety of multi-channel setups, from stereo to 2.1, 5.1, 5.2 and upwards. Apparently, the theoretical limit of the iDP system is 12.12, although 7.3 might be considered a more practical limit!
A single master Ellipse monitor controls the other ‘slave’ speakers within the system. Acoustic alignment settings can be stored and recalled using a remote control, which also allows real-time adjustment of bass management, global level and the soloing or muting of channels.
The Ellipse iDP control software allows the user to introduce delay on individual monitors in order to compensate for the shortcomings of the acoustic space. An onboard pink-noise generator can be used to ‘EQ the room’ and the precision built-in EQ can then be used for further placement compensation. Crossover frequencies can likewise be adjusted.
The active subwoofer which accompanies the Ellipse iDP system utilises two 12-inch, side-firing, metal-coned drivers and is rated at 1.5kW. Such a high power rating might seem like overkill, but, because the subwoofer enclosure is completely sealed, a large amount of power is needed to produce the required cone excursion.
The Ellipse iDP 8 master monitor costs £2068, while the slave costs £1744, while the Ellipse iDP 10s cost £2326 and £1997 for the master and slave respectively. The iDP subwoofer, meanwhile, costs £2203.13. Surround systems can be constructed from these modular elements to suit users’ needs. An 2.1 Ellipse iDP 10 system, for example, comprising an iDP master, slave and subwoofer, plus cables, software and optional remote control would cost £6674.
T Tannoy +44 (0)1236 420199.
