Company’s First Active Loudspeaker for Computers Features Bipolar Technology
Definitive Technology today announced Incline, the company’s first powered loudspeaker system optimized for desktop use with computers, laptops, tablets and other audio sources. Incline is a pair of compact, self-powered loudspeakers with a unique form factor that enhances sound quality while complementing the appearance of desktop monitors and laptop computers. Incline features speaker components on the front and the back of the enclosure in a bipolar configuration for enhanced performance.
The New Shape of Desktop Audio
Incline’s unique and striking design serves to overcome problems typical of desktop speakers. By pointing the speaker upward toward the listener’s ears, Incline allows users to hear full bandwidth sound—all the way up to the highest treble region—for a more intelligible, lifelike, and exciting sound experience.
In addition to the sonic advantages of its design, Incline’s backward tilt cleverly mimics the angle of desktop monitors and laptop screens.
Bipolar Technology for More Spacious Sound
“Because they are usually placed close together, conventional desktop speakers project a small, two-dimensional soundscape. Bands, orchestras and movies sound small, confined to a two or three foot narrow window with not much sense of front-to-back depth,” said Matt Lyons, engineering VP of Definitive Technology. “Incline’s bipolar technology sounds wide open and amazingly lifelike.”
Speakers on the front and rear panels of Incline’s enclosure radiate sound in an omnidirectional pattern to present a wide, deep and spacious soundstage for a more lifelike and involved listening experience for both music and movies.
Full Bandwidth, High Definition Sound
Incline is a full-range loudspeaker capable of reproducing the full range of audible sound from deep bass through the highest overtones. An 80-Watt amplifier powers the system for effortless high volume and low distortion clarity. A sophisticated Digital Signal Processor (DSP) module digitally adjusts and enhances the audio signal to achieve startling sound quality.
Listeners who demand even higher output and more powerful bass can add an optional external powered subwoofer to Incline via a rear panel Sub Out jack.
Versatile Connectivity
Incline is not just for computers; it can be connected to any audio source that has a USB, digital optical or headphone output jack.
Exceptional Fit and Finish
“Owners of Definitive products are technology aficionados who have come to expect superior design and materials from our speakers,” said Chief Design Officer Michael DiTullo. “We could not envision them being satisfied with the typical plastic enclosures one often finds in desktop audio speakers. We specified premium materials and tight manufacturing tolerances to produce a truly premium product worthy of the Definitive brand.”
Incline’s striking support base is a solid slab of machined aluminum, meant to provide stability and a timeless look. The top plate is also crafted from real aluminum, as are the side-mounted power and volume controls. The enclosure is wrapped in an acoustically transparent grille cloth.
The product design is the result of collaboration between world-renowned Frog Design and the Sound United Global Design Center, headed by Chief Design Officer Michael DiTullo. Frog Design is an innovation firm with 12 locations around the globe and more than 1,000 designers, strategists, and engineers. The Sound United Global Design Center is a multi-disciplinary design studio located in the Vista, Calif. office of Definitive’s corporate parent, DEI Holdings.
Price and Availability
The Definitive Technology Incline PC speakers will be available to select North American retailers in October 2013 for $399/pair.
Preliminary Specifications:
- Dimensions: 11.3″ H x 5″ W x 4.4″ D (depth includes base); (28.8cm H x 12.7cm W x 11.1cm D)
- Driver complement: front firing: (1) 3-1/2″ bass/midrange driver, (1) 4″ pressure coupled bass radiator, (1) 3/4″ silk dome tweeter; rear-firing: (1) 1-1/2″ full range driver (rear panel)
- Amplifier power: 80 Watts (4×20)
- Connections: USB, optical TOSLINK, 3.5mm stereo “mini” analog line-level in, sub out, 20V DC power supply input, left speaker output port
