PRO Audio Technology / Trinnov 23-Channel Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Demo Experience

PRO Audio Technology or Professional Home Cinema LLC, was founded in 2004 through the collaboration of Paul Hales (creator of the Transcendence 8 floorstanding speakers) and Larry Reagan.  According to PRO, the principle of the company was and still is to combine audio engineering technology from consumer and professional audio fields to produce the most accurate, robust, and aurally-exciting audio products for installed residential systems available anywhere.  All this comes at a price, of course, but like a lot of high quality products, “You get what you pay for.”  This system is definitely no exception.  In conglomeration with Trinnov Audio, a French manufacturer of high-end audio equipment, for this demo event, it was like the marriage of two of the most powerful figures in the known world of A/V.  This resulted in an experience unlike any other aside from the nearest Cineplex.  It was a revelation of what is possible in the home. 

At their office in Southern California, I was fortunate enough to experience this first hand.  PRO Audio was demonstrating their pre-installed custom sound system to give an all-encompassing audio experience of music and film material alike. Their systems start in the high teens, meaning >$15K for a pretty basic 5.2 channel system.  This includes amplifiers, loudspeakers, subwoofers, etc.  They have previously installed much larger systems up to roughly $500K, but the one at their facility represented what can be achieved in your own home specifically as a dedicated home theater.  This system cost roughly $100K with 14,850W of power.  They can also custom install audio throughout your home, office, etc. not under a high-pressure sales standpoint, but with the customer in mind.  According to Larry Reagan, PRO Audio strives to sell on a scientific standpoint by presenting customers what can be achieved with their various products depending on the customer’s budget and what type of application they want to use the loudspeakers for.  The end result is customer satisfaction by giving them what they need rather than just selling them something.

High-End Modest Two-Channel Set-Up

PRO Audio’s conference room displays an exemplary 2-channel system.  It’s a prime example of what they can install in a non-home theater application.  There was a display in one corner of the room that exhibited a number of the loudspeakers that PRO produces.  This two-channel system contained one of their 8-channel amplifiers, a DMA 1508, which is a 1U rack space amp with up to 1500w of power.  It is 1.75”H x 19”W x 14.13”D, weighs in at only 8lbs. and has a standby power draw of only 0.5w.  This amp can be connected in a 5.2 channel system with a configuration of 2 x 300w (channels for two subs) + 6 x 100w for all other channels including the ability to bi-amp the center channel if need be.  It can also be configured in the following ways:  3 x 300w + 4 x 100w, 4 x 300w +2 x 100w, and 5 x 300w.  In this case, the DMA 1508 was configured in a two-channel configuration and powered by an OPPO HA-1 USB DAC headphone amp.  The HA-1 was processing streaming CD-resolution content from Tidal via USB from an attached laptop.  Larry was playing some smooth jazz.  Even a humble stereo set-up has been taken to the next level.  That’s what PRO does.

SCRS-6c-ica (in-ceiling angled)

The audio was pouring forth smooth as butter from a couple of newly-developed in-ceiling speakers that are now available for purchase, SCRS-6c-iw.  These are actually meant to be in-wall speakers (hence “iw”) but as displayed at PRO, can also be used in-ceiling.  These speakers are a single 6” two-way loudspeaker with a compression tweeter (which is PRO’s go-to style) mounted in the pole piece of the 6” driver.  This loudspeaker is set in an 8” fully enclosed cabinet.  It also presents high sensitivity 93dB LF/105 dB HF.  PRO Audio engineers their loudspeakers and subs to play at reference levels to appropriately integrate their products for various room sizes.  This means their products can reach a maximum output matching or above cinema specifications of 105dB.  The perforated metal grille comes in white, but can be painted. The SCRS-6c also comes in an angled version SCRS-6c-ica (in-ceiling angled), which is meant to be placed as height speakers or surround back speakers.  The main purpose for both of these speakers is to be utilized in a Dolby Atmos/DTS:X environment.  Of course, what you do with them is entirely up to you.  These loudspeakers produced a very realistic soundscape, even from just two speakers.  The individual sounds of the instruments came through with detail.  The high frequencies were not harsh-sounding at all.  Due to their high sensitivity, these small speakers played the music effortlessly with no hint of strain.

LFC-210im (invisible mount)

The bass was supplied by the newly available LFC-210im (invisible mount).  This is a dual long-throw carbon fiber 10” in-wall subwoofer that fits within a standard 2” x 4” architectural wall.  It is 84”H x 14”W x 3.9”D and comes with an optional low-profile paintable metal grille.  This sub has 93dB/1w sensitivity with a high output bass reflex design and a frequency range of 25Hz-125Hz.  The crossover is an 8^th order design via DSP with a power handling of 500w and a maximum output of 114dB.  These two drivers have two voice coils per driver.  As with all of PRO’s subs, which are not powered, these are produced to receive power via PRO’s amplifiers to maintain product consistency.  To the touch, the two 10” drivers are stiff, due to the carbon fiber, so they play tight and controlled, but with great output.  This sub naturally blends with the two SCRS-6c-iw speakers for an exceptional audio experience.  Despite being able to play at reference levels, these products also provide a great low output listening experience because at these levels they just coast right along. 

You've enjoyed the prelim, now for the main event!

PRO Audio 23 Channel Dolby Atmos System

In their 10’H x 23’W x 35’D demo room, complete with wet-bar and billiard table, Pro Audio has installed their 23-channel Dolby Atmos sound system.  Customers can call, schedule a demo and relax while enjoying a cocktail.  It’s a setting one might have in their home.  The demo room was also complete with sound-absorbing material on the walls, but it also had normal furniture such as a sofa, a couple of loveseats, coffee table with a chessboard, a few floor lamps, and also a digital drum set in the left corner closest to the 12’ screen.

The 12’ screen is from Stewart Filmscreen made of THX-certified MicroPerf material with a 2.35:1 aspect ratio.  This front-projection system is viewed using a late model Runco XTremeProjection^TM Series projector, model X-400d with the Dimension^TM DC300 processor and Active 3D technology.  According to Paul Hales, since Runco’s parent company Planar has decided to discontinue all Runco products, the projector is somewhat of a “white elephant.”  Video playback is done off of an OPPO BDP-105D.  This entire system is controlled via a Creston control system.  Using a handheld tablet-like device, PRO is able to control the main audio system, lighting, shades, and the projector’s anamorphic lens.  According to Paul, this would be typical of end users of PRO products with control systems from Savant, Control4, etc.

Trinnov Altitude32 Atmos AV Processor

The Trinnov Altitude32 is the heart and soul of this already exceptional home cinema system.  This high-end preamplifier comes in black or light gray aluminum.  PRO was using the black aluminum model.  This unit comes in four different models:  8-8 (eight processing channels and eight optimizer channels), then it’s the 8-16 (which comes with up to 16 pro/opt channels), then comes the 16-24, and lastly the 16-32.  Three models have the 3D codecs as available upgrades.  Though honestly, at $21K - $31.5K, I really think all three should be standard.  Even the $17K 8-8 basic model should have it as an option at least.  The 8-8 does not have Atmos capability, but still has Trinnov’s 3D mapping technology. 

The particular model used (according to Chuck Back the representative from Sound Developments Ltd, the Cinema distributor of Trinnov in the US) was the best of the best, the $31.5K 32-channel monster complete with all three 3D audio codecs:  Dolby Atmos, Auro-3D, and DTS:X.  This processor contains a built-in Ethernet and Wi-Fi connection, with an Intel i7 processor, 2GB of RAM, 64-bit processing, 24bit/192kHz native processing on all channels, and flash storage.  Since this preamplifier is PC-based, the Altitude32 can update automatically via Wi-Fi, through the Internet, with no need for a DSP upgrade.  The automatic processing of this unit via the optional 3D tetrahedric measurement probe adjusts the time/frequency acoustic analysis on all channels.  The Altitude32 also features Trinnov’s loudspeaker/room optimizer, which adjusts the phase for all channels.  This allows the processor to fully create an enveloping experience by utilizing Trinnov’s patented 2D/3D spatial remapping technology.  This technology basically creates a map of the room and communicates that information to the system.  With this system, one can calibrate 29 different presets for multiple viewing positions at once.  It even takes into consideration if there is an acoustically transparent screen that is used.  The Altitude32 also uses Trinnov’s high-performance AD/DA converters, the converters used daily by professional mastering studios.  For more details about this fine product visit www.Trinnov.com.

Speaker Placements

PRO connected 19 loudspeakers and four subwoofers throughout the entire listening area to exhibit the 11.4.8 Dolby Atmos experience.  All 23 of these speakers/subs were powered by nine of PRO’s amplifiers (two DMA-1508s, three PMA-9942s, three PMA-4242s, one PMA-9900).  Sitting in the recessed shelving spaces of the false wall behind the 12’ projection screen are three tri-ampable SCR-2115sm (surface mount floor/shelf) loudspeakers.  These 42”H x 22”W x 16”D speakers have an 89lb. 15” woofer (with a 4” voice coil) and a 36lb. 90 x 60 degree horn with a 2” mid/high frequency compression driver.  These speakers are designed to be tri-amped via PRO’s amplifiers with a configuration of 1000W LF, 450W MF, and 200W HF.  They were all connected to three of PRO’s Programmable Modular Amplifiers (or PMA) model 9942.  Their frequency range is 34Hz-21kHz with a max output of >130dB.

Editorial Note about Speakers Employed by Gene DellaSala

There were no bouncy house Atmos-enabled speakers in this installation. Again PRO Audio took a science based approach putting together a system with virtually unlimited dynamic range. You simply cannot get this level of realism, accuracy or dynamics with Atmos-enabled reflection type speaker schemes.

The six side speakers were the SCRS-26im (invisible mount) models.  As with all of PRO’s “im” line of speakers, these are designed to fit within a 2” x 4” architectural wall space, but in this instance the fixtures were out in plain sight.  I actually liked this look.  These loudspeakers have two 6.5” long-throw woofers and a 1” compression HF driver with a 90 x 60 degree elliptical horn.  These have a sensitivity of up to 114dB HF, freq. range of 54Hz-31kHz, and a max output of 200W HF up to 122dB.  These are 30”H x 14”W x 3-3/8”D and weigh in at only 24lbs.  All six of the SCRS-26im’s are powered by three of the PMA-4242s (one for the front “wide” pair, one for the side pair, and one for the side “back” pair of speakers).  These speakers are also bi-amped through the PMA-4242s with 450W LF and 200W HF each.

Above the listeners and slightly to the front and rear were six SCRS-25ica speakers and four SCRS-5iw speakers.  The bi-ampable SCRS-25ica (in-ceiling angled) speakers were arranged as two front “height”, two rear channels, and two rear Atmos speakers.  These in-ceiling speakers have dual 5” woofers, 0.75” compression HF driver, and 90 x 60 degree elliptical horn.  The front baffle is angled to direct sound into the listening area.  They are 11.6”H x 11.6”W x 7.2”D (w/grille and black box), 13lbs., can fit in a 10.6”H x 10.6”W cut-out, have a freq. range of 60Hz-18kHz, a 109dB HF sensitivity, and a 300W peak at 115dB.  The other four loudspeakers that give the Atmos effects are the SCRS-5iw.  These bi-ampable in-wall speakers are mounted in the ceiling in the middle of the listening area.  They have one 5” woofer and one 0.75” HF compression driver.  These are the same drivers as the SCRS-25ica.  These are 11.5”H x 7.5”W x 3.9”D, with a cut-out of 10.4”H x 6.6”W, freq. range of 65Hz-18kHz, a 109HF sensitivity, and a 300W peak at 109dB.  These ten loudspeakers are powered by two (8-channel) DMA-1508 amplifiers in a bridgeable configuration.  This means that all 16 channels are converted into ten channels and each loudspeaker is set up as a single passively-powered speaker.  Each DMA-1508s were pumping out 5x300W channels.

LFC-14sm subwoofer

PRO also had two 266lb. LFC-24sm subwoofers and two LFC-14sm subwoofers in their system.  The massive 26”H x 60.5”W x 21”D LFC-24sm has an 88lb. driver, four 6” ports, 6” voice coil, freq. range of 22Hz-80Hz, a 99dB sensitivity, and a 2000W peak at >129dB.  This thing looks like a huge end table.  It is also covered in a material that feels like the lining of a pick-up truck bed.  All of PRO’s cabinet loudspeakers and subs are made from birch wood for a very sturdy and durable product.  Two of these behemoths were positioned on the floor behind the false wall under the projector screen.  They were also powered by two of the PMA-9942s that were powering the SCR-2115s through two of the 1000w channels (one per sub).  The other two subwoofers in the system were the LFC-14sm.  These were positioned in the rear corners of the listening area.  These two 49lb. 16”H x 16”W x 13.5”D (12” w/o the grille) subs are 15” subs that are capable of 1000W peaks, a freq. range of also 22Hz-80Hz, a sensitivity of 90dB, and a max output of >115dB.  These are designed to be the companion sub for the SCRS-25ica/SCRS-5iw loudspeakers.  One last PMA amplifier, the 9900, was powering these two subs with 2-channels at 1000W each.

Sound Revelation

Movies

Previously, I was aware of a few custom home theater installations, in homes and on display at some high-end hi-fi shops, and some big-box stores.  Nothing could prepare me for what I experienced at the PRO Experience Center.   One of the demo videos was the opening scene from Mad Max Fury Road.  The roar of his car firing up sounded like a raging inferno.  The impact created by the four subwoofers when his car tumbles out of control is thunderous, visceral.  This scene is shown in this link https://youtu.be/-IJ8_Jf891k.

We saw another video, a documentary about sea life.  The scene showed the hunting habits of a lionfish.  The audio in this scene made me imagine I was scuba diving and watching this scene play out with some background music playing in my ears at the same time.  The pulsating rhythm of bass in the music reminded me of the pulsating bass of the Jaws theme, though not as grand in scale.  This bass increased in dB until the point of attack by the lionfish on its prey.

Mad Max (left pic) and Unbroken (right pic) Blu-ray Movies

The most impressive demo video was the bombing mission scene from Unbroken.  The dialog and delicate sounds of the men bustling around the aircraft, as well as the sounds when the pilot and Louie Zamperini were trading off the controls from one to the other until Louie dropped the bombs, was clearly defined.  In the meantime, there was the constant sound of the wind and the hum of the B-24’s engines.  Once the bombs hit their target, there is a few seconds delay between the impact and when the sound is heard.  In this case it is the LF rumble of the impact, which was actually startling and “Oh so cool!” at the same time.  This plastered a big smile on my face for the rest of the scene.  When the Zeros start their attack, each round of the B-24’s .50 caliber machine guns is felt with great impact.  In concert with this audio barrage, the other artillery rounds from the Zeros are whizzing by and making contact with the B-24’s fuselage.  The scene is a great test for any 3D sound system.  It gives the sensation of being inside the aircraft with the other characters.  The scene was quite short, but the dramatic impact of the audio and visual effects made me crave more.  Although I’ve already seen this movie and experienced it on my humble home theater, seeing it like I saw at PRO, I felt like I was seeing it for the first time.  Here’s a link to a portion of the clip https://youtu.be/HaWWvJ7nhNk.

Music

The last scene I’ll mention is from the concert disc of the Crossroads Guitar Festival 2010.  In this scene the John Meyer Trio is performing a fine, slightly more upbeat cover of the classic song Ain’t No Sunshine by Bill Withers.  Viewing this clip, I felt like I was at the concert.  Every guitar pluck is produced with great detail.  I felt every kick drum shot from drummer Steve Jordan.  You can hear the distinct variations of the bass guitar.  Voices came through with pristine clarity.  None of the sounds, including the crowd, overpowered the others. Everything was perfectly balanced. This was apparent with all of the demo videos as a matter of fact.  The HFs were not shrill or overpowering.  They were loud yet smooth and easy on the ears.  The LFs were thunderous and impactful, but not overpowering.  I’ve heard many systems where the LFs are just deafening and gave me a headache.  The highs were too shrill and had to be dialed back especially at high volumes.  Even at reference levels as displayed at PRO, the sound was not deafening, nor did it make my head feel like I was underwater.  This system was LOUD, but surprisingly bearable.  The sound was much better, in my opinion, than watching a movie in an IMAX auditorium.  This has to do with the amazing amount of control one has with components as capable as the Altitude32 and PRO Audio sound system and loudspeakers.  Here is a link to this clip https://youtu.be/Q4hcxqP9Oo8. 

Conclusion

The PRO Audio Dolby Atmos system was already great as according to a representative from Audiovisions, the custom installer company next door to PRO.  With the Trinnov Altitude32 introduced into the system, it sounded different, in a good way.  The pre-amp PRO used before was no slouch, a Datasat RS-20i.  I guess the Trinnov just took it up a notch.  It is now going to be their staple pre-amp/processor.  If you are looking to have a custom-built Home Theater installed in your house or just looking for a high-quality system and do not want to tear down walls or do any other construction, then PRO has got you covered.  They do not high-pressure sell something they just give you the facts, make some suggestions, and let you decide.  Customer satisfaction is the main goal for them.  They have many different options you can choose from and amplifiers that can adapt to whatever you’d like them to do.  Now with the Altitude32 in place, you’ll have many more options available in terms of sound processing.  If you have the funds for a high-quality sound system (two-channel, HT, or whole house audio), whether your listening room is big or small, and you do not want to ask “What if?,” then look no further than PRO Audio Technology. 

Visit their website www.proaudiotechnology.com, give them a call, visit their showroom, have a cocktail, and share your experience.