JBL Intellivox DSX500 HD – Flagship Long-Throw Steerable Column Array

Product Overview

The JBL Intellivox DSX500 HD is the flagship model of the DSX slim-line series, engineered for large-venue fixed installations requiring long-throw audio coverage with precise vertical beam control. With an acoustic array length exceeding 4 meters, the DSX500 HD covers audience areas up to 70 meters while maintaining consistent SPL — making it a primary choice for commercial AV integrators specifying digitally steerable column arrays in large houses of worship, transportation hubs, and performing arts venues. Its onboard 16-channel Class-D amplification and DDS (Digital Directivity Synthesis) technology eliminate the need for external amplifiers and enable software-controlled beam shaping without repositioning. For integrators working on high-ceiling or reverberant-space installations, the DSX500 HD delivers the throw distance and coverage control needed to replace complex distributed loudspeaker systems.

Product Description

The DSX500 HD combines 28 custom-designed 4-inch full-range drivers with 8 horn-loaded 1-inch dome tweeters, extending the frequency response to 18 kHz and supporting both intelligible speech reproduction and program audio in demanding acoustical environments. JBL's DDS (Digital Directivity Synthesis) algorithm provides software-configurable vertical beam shaping, allowing AV system designers to define tilt angle, beam width, and coverage zones through WinControl software — without requiring physical adjustment of the column after installation. The 16-channel integrated Class-D amplifier, driven by a switched-mode power supply, supports long-term reliable operation in fixed installations. Dual line inputs, up to 20 seconds of onboard audio delay, and comprehensive DSP processing make the DSX500 HD a self-contained audio system for both simple and complex multi-zone deployments. The slim architectural form factor — less than 5.28 inches wide — integrates discreetly into theatre lobbies, atrium spaces, transit terminals, and large lecture halls where loudspeaker visibility must be minimized. Available in black and white to match architectural finishes, the DSX500 HD is compatible with other Intellivox and JBL Professional components for phased-array or multi-column commercial AV configurations.

Key Features

• DDS Vertical Beam Shaping — JBL's Digital Directivity Synthesis technology enables software-controlled vertical steering, precisely targeting the listening plane and minimizing ceiling and floor reflections in reverberant spaces.
• 28 × 4-inch + 8 × 1-inch Driver Array — Combined full-range and high-frequency driver complement delivers extended response to 18 kHz, supporting both speech intelligibility and high-fidelity program audio.
• 70-Meter Coverage Range — Array length exceeding 4 meters achieves long-throw coverage suited to large transportation terminals, auditoriums, and large houses of worship.
• Integrated 16-Channel Class-D Amplification — Onboard multi-channel amplifier drives each driver section independently, eliminating external rack amplifiers and simplifying system installation.
• Up to 20 Seconds Onboard Delay — Extended delay capacity supports large-venue time alignment for multi-column and distributed audio configurations without external delay hardware.
• WinControl Software Integration — PC-based control software enables full DSP parameter management, beam steering configuration, and real-time monitoring from a single interface.
• Dual Line Inputs — Two independent line inputs support primary and backup signal feeds for redundant commercial audio systems.
• Slim Architectural Profile — At 5.28 inches wide, the DSX500 HD integrates into architectural spaces with minimal visual impact, available in black or white to match installation environments.

Typical Applications

• House of worship — large sanctuaries requiring 70-meter throw with controlled vertical dispersion and high intelligibility across tiered or wide seating configurations
• Auditorium — fixed installation program and speech reinforcement replacing complex distributed systems in high-ceiling reverberant spaces
• Transportation terminal — airports, rail stations, and transit hubs requiring long-throw intelligible paging in high-ambient-noise environments
• Convention center — large ballrooms and multi-purpose halls where a single column replaces ceiling grid loudspeaker arrays
• Training room — large-format educational and corporate training spaces where consistent SPL over distance is required
• Multi-purpose room — flexible-use venues requiring remotely reconfigurable coverage zones without physical repositioning of loudspeakers

Technical Specifications

Competitor Comparison

What's in the Box

• JBL Intellivox DSX500 HD active column array loudspeaker
• Mounting hardware and installation brackets
• Power supply cable
• Documentation and setup guide

Frequently Asked Questions

What control software is required for the DSX500 HD?

The DSX500 HD uses JBL's WinControl PC-based software for DSP configuration, beam steering setup, and real-time system monitoring. WinControl is available from JBL Professional and supports multi-device management from a single interface.

Does the DSX500 HD include its own amplifier?

Yes. The DSX500 HD is an active (self-powered) system with an integrated 16-channel Class-D amplifier. No external rack amplifier is required, which simplifies cable routing and reduces equipment room space requirements for the installation.

How does the DSX500 HD compare to the DSX380 HD?

The DSX500 HD extends coverage to 70 meters versus 45 meters for the DSX380 HD, and incorporates 28 full-range drivers versus 16, plus additional horn-loaded HF drivers. It is the appropriate choice for larger venue applications requiring maximum throw distance and SPL output.

What is the warranty for JBL Intellivox products?

JBL Professional products are backed by a limited manufacturer warranty. Commercial project warranty terms and registration requirements should be confirmed with an authorized distributor. Creation Networks provides warranty support coordination for commercial AV installations.

Can the DSX500 HD be used in a distributed multi-column array?

Yes. Multiple DSX500 HD units can be networked and time-aligned using WinControl software, supporting phased and distributed configurations for large or complex commercial AV system designs.