d&b audiotechnik has launched a broad suite of next-generation products that together signal a significant step forward in compact loudspeaker performance and open, scalable networked audio infrastructure. Anchored by the introduction of the new U-Series compact multipurpose point-source loudspeakers and bolstered by an expanded Milan-AVB portfolio featuring four powerful network products, the latest developments from the German pro-audio manufacturer aim to deliver consistent high performance, system architecture freedom and future proofing for a wide range of professional audio applications.

At the heart of the company’s product refresh is the U-Series, described by Santiago Alcalá Baillie, Product Manager Loudspeakers at d&b audiotechnik, as “opening a new chapter in the compact multipurpose point source loudspeaker category”. The U-Series represents a paradigm shift in the category, with a no-compromise electroacoustic design that extends vertical directivity control down to ±500 Hz and delivers consistent low-frequency performance to 55 Hz across models. The range comprises three passive models — U3, U5 and U7 — plus their networked counterparts U3N, U5N and U7N, all of which are physically and acoustically identical, giving system designers the freedom to choose the architecture that best fits their project without compromising acoustic integrity.

The U-Series adopts a modern, application-neutral industrial aesthetic with a discreet profile free of visible rigging points or handles, designed to blend into both mobile and installed environments while withstanding rigorous touring use. Each model features a patent-pending rotatable waveguide horn assembly that can be turned 90° without tools, providing superior broadband high-frequency dispersion and controlled off-axis behaviour. The bipolar woofer configuration enhances vertical directivity control, while the port design technology borrowed from d&b’s SL-Series ensures robust low-frequency extension and full-range performance even in nearfield applications without subwoofers.

For integration and system planning flexibility, the passive U-Series models work seamlessly within the established d&b Workflow and amplifier ecosystem. When paired with d&b amplifiers such as the 5D or the new Milan-AVB-enabled 5DM, users can choose between Dante and Milan audio networks — or even combine them — to best suit project requirements. The networked variants of the U-Series incorporate a hybrid-topology DSP power module capable of operating over AC and/or PoE++ power in dual Milan and R1 networks, offering power, signal and network redundancy plus single-cable operation, daisy-chaining/grouping and offline control via an NFC app. These features expand system architecture freedom, particularly for distributed audio venues and immersive audio applications, while consuming less than 90 W of PoE++ at full SPL. A new d&b DN2 Milan-AVB switch with eight 90 W PoE++ ports facilitates powerful single-cable setups, with provision for third-party PoE++ devices or injectors.

To complement the U-Series full-range systems, d&b has also introduced the B10 compact omnidirectional dual-10” bass-reflex ground subwoofer, available in both passive (B10, Bi10) and networked (B10N, Bi10N) variants to match the form factor and network capabilities of the loudspeaker range. The passive U-Series, B10 and Bi10 are slated for availability in Q1 2026, followed by the network-enabled U-Series and subwoofers in Q2.

Alongside the U-Series, d&b audiotechnik has significantly expanded its Milan-AVB ecosystem, reinforcing its long-term commitment to open network standards that deliver deterministic performance, low latency and broad interoperability. The new Milan-ready products — the DS22 Audio Network Bridge, DS1 USB Milan Interface, 5DM Milan amplifier, and DN2 AVB switch — are intended to provide scalable, robust audio networking foundations that support both current projects and future-proof system designs.

The DS22 Audio Network Bridge is designed to streamline input management in Milan-based audio systems, offering sixteen AES3 digital input channels, four of which can be switched to analog, plus an integrated Milan-enabled switch, making it ideal for connecting mixing consoles at venues and festivals. The DS1 USB Milan Interface brings direct audio playback and recording from PCs and Macs into Milan networks with dual network interfaces for redundant audio streaming. Firmware updates and network control are supported through Milan Manager software, simplifying setup and management.

The 5DM is a compact four-channel Class-D installation amplifier with advanced DSP tailored to d&b loudspeakers including the new passive U-Series, featuring a wide-range switch-mode power supply with active power factor correction, flexible routing and comprehensive system protection. Meanwhile, the DN2 is the only Milan-AVB switch engineered specifically to integrate with U-Series networked loudspeakers, offering intuitive, zero-configuration operation and eight PoE++ ports capable of powering networked loudspeakers over a single cable, with full integration into d&b R1 remote control software for reliable performance and real-world usability.

Together, these product introductions underscore d&b audiotechnik’s focus on broadening choice and flexibility for audio professionals, enabling systems that are both powerful in performance and flexible in architecture while remaining grounded in open standards and future-ready networking capabilities.