Meet d&b audiotechnik’s new CCL System, the first release in d&b’s new CL Series and a game-changer for anyone working in live sound, installations, or event production.
CCL (short for Compact Cardioid Line Array) isn’t just a scaled-down version of the SL Series—it’s a purpose-built, passive, single-amplifier system that brings broadband cardioid directivity and low-frequency control to spaces that can’t accommodate full-scale arrays.
This rig is designed to solve real-world production pain points: tight rigging loads, venue restrictions, transportation limits, and the age-old juggling act between SPL and intelligibility. Whether you're in a 700-seat auditorium or a conference ballroom with strict trim height, CCL offers the performance you need in a compact form factor.
Let’s unpack what makes this system so compelling and how it could simplify your workflow without sacrificing quality.
Meet The CCL Lineup
CCL8
Compact Cardioid Line Array
One of two CCL-TOP line array loudspeakers. CCL8 is the 80° horizontal dispersion version, ideal for focused coverage in narrow or long-throw applications.
CCL12
Compact Cardioid Line Array
The second CCL-TOP, with 120° wide-dispersion, designed for broader coverage in shorter-throw or wider audience applications.
CCL-SUB
Compact Cardioid Subwoofer
A flyable, passive cardioid subwoofer with a 15" front and 10" rear driver. It reduces rear output and blends seamlessly with CCL line arrays in flown or ground-stacked setups.
FEATURED SPECS
What's Under the Grill of CCL?
Simply put, the d&b CCL System is a scalable, compact, passive cardioid line array. It delivers full-range, broadband directivity control (including true cardioid low-end behavior) without the need for multiple amplifiers or extra processing channels.
In fact, it’s the first in its class to accomplish this.
That cardioid behavior isn’t a gimmick. It’s real, it’s passive, and it helps with reduced stage wash, better gain-before-feedback, and cleaner rear rejection. This is especially helpful when deploying in reverberant or multi-use spaces.
The CCL-TOP:
At the core of each CCL-TOP:
Two 7" front-facing LF drivers
Two 5" drivers for side and rear rejection
Two 1.75" newly-designed HF transducers
Like all d&b products, the design is elegant in its simplicity, and thanks to d&b’s revised implementation of its cardioid technology (adapted from the SL Series), it manages to maintain impressive pattern control across the entire frequency range—with only a single amp channel.
True cardioid behavior, without the complexity.
It’s this passive design that makes d&b CCL particularly attractive. You get the clarity and punch of d&b’s signature voicing, with a dramatically reduced footprint in amplification, cabling, and logistics.
The CCL-SUB:
Rounding out the system is the new CCL-SUB, a flyable, passive cardioid subwoofer designed to complement the CCL array. It features:
- One 15" front driver
- One 10" rear driver with reduced port noise and extended bandwidth
Like the CCL-TOPs, the CCL-SUB can be driven by a single amplifier channel, and flown in line with the array, ground stacked, or used as part of a distributed LF system.
It’s efficient, punchy, and visually unobtrusive—ideal for events where subs need to be heard and felt, but not seen.
COMPATIBILITY
Amplification & Integration
The entire d&b CCL system plays nicely with d&b's current amplifier lineup:
D40, 40D, D80, D90 (ideal for full output with no headroom compromises)
Also compatible with 30D and D20 (with slightly adjusted settings)
One amplifier can power up to eight CCL units, simplifying inventory and deployment.
As always, system design and tuning are handled through ArrayCalc and R1 Remote, allowing techs to dial in coverage, phase, delay, and voicing with extreme precision.
RIGGING THE CCL SYSTEM
Purpose-Built Hardware for Fast, Flexible Deployment
Whether you're flying a full array, ground-stacking in a ballroom, or permanently installing in a challenging space, CCL's rigging infrastructure is as thoughtfully designed as the loudspeakers themselves.
d&b offers a full range of hardware to support versatile, safe, and efficient setups in both mobile and installed environments.
Here’s a breakdown of the key rigging components:
Z5820
CCL Flying Frame
The main flying frame for large-format CCL deployments.
It supports:
- Up to 24 CCL-TOPs (CCL8 or CCL12)
- Up to 10 CCL-SUB cabinets
- Mixed arrays, with CCL-SUBs positioned at the top
A removable beam extension can be mounted to the front or rear to allow for greater uptilt or downtilt—perfect for adapting arrays to unusual rooms or deep audience areas.
Z5821
CCL Top Mounting Frame
Lighter and more compact than the Z5820, making it ideal for typical flown configurations.
- Supports up to 12 CCL-TOP modules
- Rated for a 551 lb SWL
Z5824
CCL Pullback Frame
Attaches to the bottom of a flown CCL-TOP array and serves as a tilt control mechanism.
By connecting to a secondary suspension point or tension line, it allows precise down-tilt adjustment of the entire array.
The Z5824 frame also doubles as a ground support element in mixed ground stack setups.
Z5825
CCL Stack Adapter
When flying isn’t an option, the Z5825 Stack Adapter enables secure ground-stacked deployments. It allows CCL-TOP arrays to be mounted directly on top of CCL-SUBs. It’s ideal for ballrooms, small venues, or temporary stages where speed and portability are key.
APPLICATIONS
Where the d&b CCL System Excels
CCL isn’t trying to be everything to everyone. But it hits a sweet spot for a wide range of applications where traditional line arrays are overkill or simply can’t fit.
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Corporate Events & Conferences
For ballrooms with height limits and limited rigging capacity, CCL delivers clear speech and sound reinforcement in a package that’s visually discreet and logistically friendly.
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Houses of Worship
For sanctuaries with tricky acoustics, historic architecture, or minimal rigging infrastructure, CCL’s cardioid design and slim profile offer high intelligibility and controlled coverage that won’t disrupt the visual serenity of the space.
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Theaters and Performing Arts Centers
When space is tight and sightlines matter, CCL provides high output and tight control without distracting from the performance or architecture. And its rear rejection keeps reflections off the walls and stage, preserving clarity for both audiences and performers.
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Festivals, Side-Fills, & Regional Touring
Pair d&b CCL arrays with SL-Series mains for consistent voicing in down-fill, front-fill, or delay tower applications. Or use them solo for smaller tours and festivals where portability and speed are key.
FINAL THOUGHTS
CCL Fills a Real Gap
The d&b CCL System isn’t just a new box—it’s a practical tool built to address some real pain points that AV professionals face daily.
From weight restrictions to rigging nightmares to complex audio environments, CCL is here to make your job easier without sacrificing audio quality or audience experience.
If you’re already operating within the d&b ecosystem, then CCL is a no-brainer.
And if you’re not? Well, it might just be the system that gets you curious enough to make the leap.
Whether you're producing high-stakes corporate events or designing AVL systems for complex venues, CCL is well worth a listen.
Ready to give CCL a try?
Matt Carpenter
Director of Strategy | Panavid, Inc.
