Cabin audio systems and cabin control equipment supplier Alto Aviation has expanded its components portfolio by introducing a new line of subwoofers designed explicitly for medium-sized, large and VVIP business aircraft.

Currently available in two sizes, ASW-724 and ASW-524, the new line of subwoofers feature side-firing technology which combines two types of radiated energy into one single discreet exit, fusing the acoustic front wave from the loudspeaker with the resonant back wave into a common high-velocity chamber. This allows the subwoofer to couple extended bass response directly into the listening room, avoiding putting bass energy into the cabinets or furniture that could result in inefficiencies and cabinet vibration.

Alto side-firing subwoofers are suitable for all configurations of Alto cabin audio systems, both for OEMs and aftermarket installations, designed for locations where a grille in front of a traditionally configured subwoofer could be obstructive.

Alto has kept in mind ease of installation and uncompromised bass performance as a priority, so the components can be hidden, with low-impact, highly efficient coupling to the cabin, maximising sound quality while minimising distortion, providing outstanding output, efficiency and sensitivity. The result is an increase in the bass and superior reproduction of the lower notes, lower bass roll-off and low frequencies.

The enclosure combines the subwoofers' direct radiating energy with the bass-reflex port energy into a single minimal aperture on a narrow side of the enclosure, minimising the cross-sectional area needed to allow efficient transmission of energy from the subwoofer to the cabin listening space. The subwoofers can be mounted in monuments, under divans or beds and many other hidden locations with only a discreet one-inch slot, significantly improving the acoustic performance of the installation.

"We are thrilled to introduce our new line of fire-siding subwoofers," says VP of engineering and R&D Steve Scarlata. "Like every product and solution in our portfolio, this new offering is the result of actively listening to our customers to develop products and solutions that become industry references. Teaming up with our OEM customers and authorised installers to ease installation, engineering with purpose and with sustainability in mind is a commitment that we all embrace on the Alto team. The performance of these woofers is truly unrivalled, and we know that this new line in our portfolio will make a remarkable difference in the listening experience."

The company has now surpassed 525 Alto Cadence cabin management installations installed in a wide variety of aftermarket business jets. Alto Cadence cabin control upgrades include direct replacement of legacy Airshow, Audio International, Baker Electronics and Pacific Systems passenger controls, eliminating woodwork by fitting the new panels in the existing cutouts.

Most of the installations have been performed, in alphabetical order, by Aviation Completion Innovations, Banyan, CE Avionics, Clay Lacy, Duncan Aviation, Flightstar, Flying Colours, Gulfstream, Jet Aviation, King Aerospace, New United Goderich, New World Aviation, Pro Star Aviation, StandardAero, Southstar Aircraft Interiors, Stevens Aerospace, Superior Avionics, Thornton Aviation, Trine Aerospace, West Star Aviation, Western Aircraft, Western Airways and Western Jet Aviation.

The Alto Cadence cabin management system offers direct replacement passenger controls that allow functionality through discrete logic and no software, significantly reducing labour and often eliminating the need for any cabin woodwork that would typically be required when replacing existing components with a third-party solution. Cadence achieves this by offering a vast array of customised switch panel design options to meet the specific requirements of each aircraft.

The foundation for Cadence is modular, discrete switch assemblies. The modules range from one to six positions, including USB charging, HDMI port, Bluetooth interface and ordinance signage. Cadence is compatible with the aircraft’s existing cabin management system and in-flight entertainment system. Cadence TSO-approved products simplify the certification process for MROs engaged in cabin retrofit solutions. Alto defines this as maintaining 'Fit Compatibility'. Cadence switch panels are flexible, allowing the design of custom bezels and solutions when needed for atypical systems or special missions.

Alto's field-proven exclusive approach to retrofit cabin management provides scalable solutions that reduce costs by preserving the cabin’s woodwork. Cadence seamlessly blends with industry-trusted IFE equipment providers to deliver fully customised cabin control and entertainment solutions, breathing new life into an ageing aircraft cabin.

“This is a remarkable milestone for Alto," says VP of sales and marketing Kevin Hayes. "I thank all our authorised dealers worldwide for their continued trust, partnership and support in selecting Cadence for their IFE/CMS upgrades and allowing us to achieve this amazing company milestone, surpassing 525 Cadence customised installations on unique serial numbers. Our customers inspire us to continue expanding our portfolio to customise passenger and crew controls that provide them with easy and fast installations and unrivalled performance."