Worcestershire
UK-based manufacturer XTA Electronics announces the launch of the DS8000—a
complete re-design of their famous DS800 mic/line distribution system for the
broadcast and touring markets.  The
DS800, and all XTA products, are distributed throughout the U.S. by Group One,
Ltd.

Taking
on feedback received over the years about the DS800, the DS8000 has been re- modeled
by one of the company’s up and coming protégés Lewis Evans. Gottelier Award
winner, R&D Manager, Alex Cooper, oversaw the project.

“Every
time I work on a new mic amplifier, I learn something new and as a result
people say they get even better,” says Cooper. “The DS8000 has Common Mode
Rejection Ratio figures I could hardly believe – for example, a typical CMRR
reading on a similar product may give 40-70 dBs whereas the DS8000 tests at a
minimum of 120 dBs which is phenomenal! The reason behind this is the common
mode bootstrapped input configuration, which eliminates phase errors enabling
near total cancellation of common mode noise.”

The
DS8000 has two new key features: an outside-broadcast split function tailored
to the demands of the broadcast industry, featuring two rear switches making
stereo 16 way splits easy; and a dual redundant power supply system that is a
breeze to enable when two DS8000 units are paired together.

In
addition, the system incorporates remote controlled 48V phantom power with
lockout “safe” functions to prevent tampering. There are also all those new
premium microphone pre-amps designed by Alex Cooper himself. Subtle panel lighting
is provided for dark back stage environments and there is the option of adding
an ADC card that provides AES3 outputs for integration into digital systems.

Together
with new output transformers, this all combines to produce a package that
builds on its predecessor’s reputation as a flexible, rugged and high quality
distribution system.

The
DS8000 is a 2U, 8 input to 32 output mic/line distribution system with 16
transformer balanced isolated outputs and 16 electronically balanced outputs
fitted as standard. Input transformers and the option of replacing the
electronically balanced outputs with transformer outputs are available.

“The
DS8000 comprises XTA’s third generation of splitters,” offers Group Sales and
Marketing Director Bill Woods. “The legacy began with the DS400, and was then
followed by the DS800, the latter of which has become one of the go-to products
in both touring and broadcast. We are confident that the new DS8000 will
quickly establish itself as a very worthy successor to the DS800. With the
linked PSU’s, the simple OB split facility and the other features we have
introduced, we are looking forward to even higher sales over the coming months
and years. I have to congratulate Alex, Lewis and the other guys in the R&D
Team for giving us a great product to sell.”

All
DS8000 are covered by XTA Electronics’ real world 5-year warranty.