NEAR Delivers Advanced Metal - Drive Custom Loudspeakers

New England Audio Resource (NEAR), the Maine loudspeaker manufacturer has announced the availability of three new models designed for high performance applications in custom installation. Featuring NEARís proprietary MDT ô (Metal Diaphragm Technology), these loudspeakers, says the company, offer audiophile sound quality, ease of installation and elegant, unobtrusive cosmetics. And like NEARís highly acclaimed AEL (All Environment Loudspeakers), the all-new CAL (Custom Application Loudspeakers) models are also weatherproof. The CAL models, designated CAL-5, CAL-6 and CAL-8 are two-way designs featuring 5.25-inch, 6.50-inch and 8-inch metal-alloy low frequency drive units respectively. A titanium tweeter handles the high frequencies. As with all NEAR Home and All Environment Loudspeakers, the CAL drive units employ NEARís patented ""Voice Coil Guidance System,"" which eliminates the need for a conventional ""Spider."" The company says that this revolutionary design provides far greater accuracy and linearity with an audible reduction in distortion. In addition, the CAL-8 features the patented TeknaSonic Vibration Control Unit OICU), built into the speaker. This innovative device, also used in NEARís flagship, controls the most sonically destructive vibrations found in most ""in-wall"" applications. NEARís founder and Chief Designer Bill Kieltyka explained: ""I chose to integrate the VCU anti-resonance device in the CAL-8 because of the extraordinary bass output of our 8-inch low -frequency driver. By dissipating this unwanted vibrational energy from within the wall, the sound of our CAL-8 is noticeably cleaner with clearer, tighter bass."" In spite of a proliferation of custom loudspeakers, NEAR believes there is ample demand for a high performance, all metal driver design that will satisfy the most critical listener. Peter Hoagland, NEARís Vice-President of Marketing, explained: ""The CALís were largely market driven. Many of our dealers asked us to offer custom versions with the great NEAR sound of our popular home models. The results of our listening tests along with initial customer feedback tell us we have exceeded our goal!""NEAR will be marketing their new CAL models to exclusive retailers and custom/design installation companies. As all CAL models are intended for the custom and systems contracting market and not for direct resale, suggested retail prices will be open. Approximate resale prices will range from $225 each for the CAL-5 to $350 for a CAL-8. Final resale prices however will be left to the NEAR dealer and the demands of each individual installation. CAL- 5, CAL-6 and CAL-8 models are now in stock and available for immediate delivery. They join four existing NEAR compact models (CAL 1R/1S and CAL 2R/2S). CAL models come with a no-nonsense five-year parts and labor warranty. NEAR, located in Lewiston, Maine, was founded by former Bozak engineer Bill Kieltyka in 1988. The company designs and manufactures proprietary metal-alloy drive units, as well as complete loudspeaker systems for home theatre, music, custom installation and all environment applications. In 1994, NEAR was granted a U.S. patent for their unique ""Voice Coil Guidance System""- a breakthrough technology that eliminates the need for the conventional ""spider"" used in a typical loudspeaker drive unit. The company and brand name were acquired by Bogen Communications in July 1997 to complement their successful line of commercial sound and professional products. Mr. Kieltyka continues to serve as NEAR's President and Chief Designer at their Lewiston, Maine facility.