Blue Sky International is introducing MediaDesk, a new compact 2.1, full-range monitoring solution designed specifically for critical mixing and monitoring on the desktop.
Ideal for computer-driven audio recording and production in a close-field environment (less than one meter), MediaDesk incorporates two Blue Sky ultra-compact amplified satellite speakers, with a complementary powered subwoofer. Blue Sky’s monitoring solutions, including this new MediaDesk system, have been created in direct response to the needs and requests of end users. The company’s innovative approach to answering current trends with a steadfast commitment to quality has helped revolutionize industry reference standards, while offering unprecedented value. Credited with making the concept of full-range 2.1 monitoring an accessible reality for audio professionals and enthusiasts, Blue Sky is now bringing this breakthrough to the pervasive desktop environment.
Employing Blue Sky’s proprietary computer optimized crossover and 2.1 bass management network, MediaDesk delivers seamless full-range audio from the subwoofer to the main monitors with smooth on- and off-axis frequency response. As with all Blue Sky International systems, MediaDesk can be easily upgraded to a space-efficient 5.1 multi-speaker system with an upgrade kit that includes three more satellite speakers, a three channel amplifier, 5.1 bass management and a wired remote volume control with channel level trims.
At the heart of the system is a pair of Blue Sky MediaDesk 2-way satellite speakers, each featuring a high-quality 4″ Neodymium hemispherical driver and a 1″ soft dome Neodymium tweeter. Powered by a custom designed, low-distortion 60-Watt amplifier located in the subwoofer, each MediaDesk Satellite Speaker delivers clean, accurate sound with a frequency response of 110 Hz to 20 kHz ± 3 dB. The speaker level output connections are gold-plated binding posts and all required speaker cables are included. In addition, the satellite speakers are housed in solid 3/4″ MDF enclosures with a lacquer finish front baffle, measure 9.5″H x 6.25″W x 6.22″D, weigh 5 lbs. (each), feature full video shielding and come standard with (1/4″ x 20) mounting inserts that are compatible with OmniMountÆ series 10 brackets and BT Technologies BT-5 brackets.
The Blue Sky MediaDesk Subwoofer was specifically designed to complement the MediaDesk satellite speakers. Featuring a cast aluminum frame, 8″ forward-firing driver with 1.5″ voice coil, the MediaDesk Subwoofer has a dedicated 60-Watt amplifier with a frequency response of 35 Hz to 110 Hz ± 3 dB (anechoic) and a typical in-room response of 20 Hz to 110 Hz (for a 1500 cubic foot room). Measuring 15″H x 14″W x 15″D and weighing 45 lbs., the MediaDesk Subwoofer also features MDF construction and four removable spiked feet with M6 x 1 inserts.
MediaDesk features analog RCA (-10 dBv) and balanced XLR inputs (switchable from +12 dBu to +24 dBu maximum input level), providing the ability to interface MediaDesk to the latest consoles, digital audio workstations, soundcards and other consumer gear. In addition, MediaDesk has a built-in 2.1 bass management system with a 4th order 110 Hz Linkwitz-Riley low-pass filter and 2nd order 110 Hz high-pass filter for the satellite. Rear panel functions include a Subwoofer and Master Volume control, an input attenuator switch, voltage selector switch (115V or 230V) and a 2.1/5.1 mode switch.
Blue Sky Vice President Chris Fichera remarked, “Computer-based audio/video workstations are extremely powerful and increasingly more affordable. Today, thanks to great leaps in performance in hardware and software technology, even entry- to mid-level PCs can handle high-resolution audio and video content. What has been lacking until now are professional audio monitoring options that are not only compact, but also full-range, accurate and affordable.” Fichera continues, “Blue Sky has met these elevated expectations once again with the MediaDesk system, designed as the perfect match to the advanced capabilities of modern desktop computer technology. Today, thanks to MediaDesk, anyone working on a computer-based audio/video workstation can achieve more compelling results, rivaling what used to only be attainable in large recording and post production facilities. The possibilities are now greater than ever for all areas of production, including music, film, post, TV, video game content creation and home video editing.”
Additional information is available at the Blue Sky site.
