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NEW Dayton Audio DATS LA Loudspeaker Analyzer

Dayton AudioPart # 390-805
Model: DATS LA

When selecting a speaker driver, spec sheets can only get you so far; nothing replaces precision measurement. This is why the DATS LA is a critical tool for any serious speaker builder. With a built-in 100W amplifier, the DATS LA provides complete small and large T/S measurements in seconds, but it does much more than that. Utilizing it’s patented DC-bias testing method, the DATS LA also reveals BL and KMS Symmetry in easy to read graphs, right in the software. Other systems require careful calibration, training and a lot of time to test just a single driver. The DATS LA will do all this in mere minutes.

Key Features

  • A cutting-edge hardware and software suite capable of evaluating both linear and non-linear aspects of loudspeakers.
  • Utilizes a patented technique for measuring loudspeaker non-linearity and asymmetry through multiple DC biased sweeps
  • By precisely controlling the DC bias and employing a unique data processing method, DATS LA provides insightful data for optimizing loudspeaker motors and suspensions
  • A robust 100-watt AC/DC amplifier facilitates precise measurement of drivers' small or large signal parameters under varying input levels
  • Compact and durable design can be easily transported and used anywhere, without sacrificing reliability or accuracy.
  • Provides functionality equivalent to industry standard loudspeaker testing systems, but at a fraction of the cost
  • A critical tool for speaker designers, engineers, and researchers looking to push the boundaries of driver development and performance
Similar items that may interest you:
Dayton Audio DATS V3 Computer Based Speaker & Audio Component Test System
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Overview

Dayton Audio DATS LA Loudspeaker Analyzer

Introducing the Dayton Audio DATS LA

Detailed driver measurement and analysis is now within reach

The Dayton Audio DATS LA (Digital Audio Test System Loudspeaker Analyzer) represents the next evolution in loudspeaker measurement, integrating cutting-edge hardware and proprietary data analysis to deliver unprecedented insights into driver performance. Designed for engineers, speaker designers, and audio professionals, the DATS LA goes beyond standard impedance measurements, offering an advanced DC-biased analysis that reveals critical non-linearities in motor force (Bl) and suspension compliance (Kms).

With an integrated 100-watt AC/DC amplifier, precision impedance measurement, and advanced modeling capabilities, the DATS LA provides laboratory-grade analysis at a fraction of the cost of traditional industry standard test systems. Whether evaluating a driver’s small-signal behavior or large-signal limitations, this versatile system allows you to design, optimize, and validate loudspeakers with a level of detail previously inaccessible to most designers.

DATS LA Software Download:

Click the link below to download the latest version of the DATS LA software

DATS LA Software Download

DC-Biased Testing

A Breakthrough in Loudspeaker Measurement

Traditional impedance-based testing methods provide valuable information about a driver’s small-signal characteristics but fail to capture how parameters shift with cone displacement. The DATS LA introduces a unique approach to this problem with its patented DC-biased measurement technique, enabling precise evaluation of a driver’s non-linear electromechanical behavior as a function of excursion.

Using precisely controlled DC pulses to displace the voice coil and cone before performing impedance sweeps, DATS LA systematically captures the impact of excursion on key parameters. This results in highly accurate Bl(x) and Kms(x) curves, which illustrate motor and suspension symmetry across the driver’s operational range. By identifying non-linearities, mechanical limitations, and asymmetry, engineers can optimize motor structures, suspension designs, and excursion limits with unmatched precision.

100W AC/DC Amplifier

Real-World Large Signal Testing

A major limitation of conventional speaker analysis systems is their inability to perform high-power measurements. The DATS LA’s integrated 100-watt amplifier overcomes this by enabling both small- and large-signal testing, allowing you to observe how T/S parameters evolve under realistic operating conditions. By increasing test signal voltage, you can evaluate how a driver’s parameters shift as it is driven outside its linear range, exposing critical performance metrics such as:
✔ Motor force reduction due to flux modulation and coil offset
✔ Suspension stiffness variations impacting excursion limits
✔ Thermal compression and voice coil heating effects on resistance (Re) and sensitivity
✔ Bl degradation at higher outputs, limiting peak SPL capability

With this information, designers can accurately model power compression effects, excursion limits, and distortion characteristics, ensuring their systems perform consistently across a wide range of SPLs.

Precision Measurement

Comprehensive Speaker Analysis

At its core, the DATS LA is a high-precision impedance measurement system, leveraging advanced algorithms to extract key Thiele/Small parameters (Fs, Qts, Vas, etc.) with extreme accuracy. In addition, it functions as a highly accurate LCR meter, allowing precise measurement of:
🔹 Resistance (Re): 0.002Ω – 10kΩ
🔹 Inductance (L): 0.05mH – 100mH (with DC resistance)
🔹 Capacitance (C): 0.002µF – 10,000µF (with ESR, dissipation factor, and Q)

This level of accuracy is essential not only for evaluating loudspeaker components but also for designing crossovers, passive networks, and other precision circuits used in audio applications.

Advanced Software

More Than Just an Impedance Tester

The DATS LA isn’t just hardware—it’s a complete loudspeaker analysis suite. The included software provides powerful tools for measurement, visualization, and analysis, including:
✔ DC-biased Bl(x) and Kms(x) symmetry curves to evaluate motor and suspension behavior
✔ Oscilloscope mode with dual trace capability for signal analysis
✔ Signal generator with customizable waveforms, frequency, and amplitude
✔ Measurement of Wright Model parameters (Kr, Xr, Ki, Xi) for enhanced driver simulations
✔ USB connectivity for seamless integration with PC-based workflows

With these features, the DATS LA not only replaces traditional speaker testers but also enhances your ability to analyze and optimize every aspect of loudspeaker performance.

Key Features:


• For professionals and hobbyists--design and optimize loudspeaker drivers and systems
• Accurate measurement of loudspeaker electromechanical parameters (Fs, Qts, Vas, and many more)
• Calculates Bl, Cms, Kms, and more at specific cone positions to produce symmetry curves
• Measures parameters using small (low power) or large (high power) signal analysis
• DC capable 100 watt amplifier allows the patented (U.S. Patent #11,272,301 B2) biased measurements
• Measurement of advanced Wright Model parameters (Kr, Xr, Ki, Xi) for precision simulations
• Software signal generator with selectable waveform, frequency, and amplitude
• Oscilloscope software mode with dual traces, plus adjustable time and amplitude scales
• Advanced short circuit protection protects amplifier from accidents
• Connects to your PC via USB port
• Compact, portable, accurate, affordable
• Optional under desk mounting brackets to save desk space

DATS V3 vs. DATS LA:

DATS V3DATS LA
Quick setup and easy to use✔✔
Integrated 100 watt amplifier✘✔
Small signal parameter measurement✔✔
Large signal parameter measurement✘✔
Adjustable small signal level✔✔
Adjustable large signal level✘✔
Motor symmetry measurement✘✔
Suspension symmetry measurement✘✔
Measure parameter vs. displacement✘✔
Calculates displacement per voltage✘✔
Measures capacitors, inductors, and resistors✔✔
Oscilloscope and signal generator✔✔
USB powered✔✘
Compact and readily portable✔✔

Redefining Speaker Design and Measurement

The Dayton Audio DATS LA is more than just a speaker tester—it’s a revolutionary tool for loudspeaker development. Combining advanced DC-biased testing, high-power measurement capability, and precise impedance analysis, it provides speaker designers, engineers, and researchers with the comprehensive and detailed data for optimizing driver and system performance.

For those serious about pushing the boundaries of loudspeaker technology, the DATS LA delivers laboratory-grade precision at a cost-effective price, making it an essential addition to any audio development workflow.

Precision. Power. Performance. The DATS LA difference.

Small Signal T/S Parameters

Quickly determine a driver's T/S parameters by connecting the test leads directly to the driver's terminals and selecting "Measure Free-Air Parameters." This will display the impedance magnitude and provide precise measurements of Re, Fs, Qts, Qes, Qms, and Le. To assess mechanical parameters like Vas and Mms, either add mass to the cone or place the driver in an appropriate test box and select "Measure V(as)."

Large Signal T/S Parameters

DATS LA empowers users with the capability to adjust the output level of the 100-watt amplifier during free-air parameter measurements. This feature enables precise control over the measurement process, allowing users to observe the variation in driver parameters in response to multiple output levels.

Bl vs. Excursion

The Bl symmetry curve provides insight into the electromagnetic attributes of the motor through a driver's stroke. It illustrates the motor's effective strength as the voice coil moves through the magnetic gap. The inverted result, represented by a dashed line, enables a clear and straightforward assessment of the motor's symmetric behavior during the inwards and outwards motion of the coil. This powerful visual tool is essential for understanding and optimizing motor performance.

Kms vs. Excursion

The Kms symmetry curve is a tool for analyzing the behavior of a driver's mechanical suspension system. By examining the curve, you can understand the effective stiffness and restoring force at different positions throughout the cone’s stroke. The inclusion of an inverted result, depicted by a dashed line, allows for a straightforward assessment of the suspension's symmetry as the diaphragm oscillates inwards and outwards.

Le vs. Excursion

The Le symmetry curve make it easy to assess the inductance variation of a voice coil at different positions during a driver's stroke. By illustrating how inductance changes relative to the cone's position, this metric confidently supports the evaluation of components designed to reduce inductance, such as shorting rings, pole caps, and specialized voice coil windings. This enables a clear understanding and effective analysis of inductance controlling methods.

Excursion per Volt

The graph presented effectively illustrates the relative excursion as a function of input voltage, enabling the easy observation of the onset of compression characterized by motor force reduction and stiffer suspension. Additionally, the inverse relationship is clearly delineated using a dashed line, aiding in distinguishing the variance between the inward and outward strokes.

DATS LA Software Download:

Click the link below to download the latest version of the DATS LA software

DATS LA Software Download

Minimum System Requirements:

• Operating System: Windows Vista, 7, 8, or 10
• Processor: 500 MHz Pentium III or equivalent processor
• Memory: 64 MB RAM
• USB Port: One available USB 1.1 or 2.0 port
Note: Not compatible with macOS

DATS LA Demonstration Videos:

How to Calibrate Hardware

How to Measure Small & Large Signal Parameters

How to do a Symmetry Test

Specifications:


• Maximum Output Power: 1x 100 watts RMS @ 4ohms
• Frequency Response: 0.1 Hz - 20kHz
• Line Input/Data Connection: USB-B
• Line Output Connectors: Insulated banana jacks
• Power Input Voltage Range: 120 - 240 VAC
• Power consumption: 100W
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 1.8" H x 5.7" W x 10.8" D
• Net Weight: 3.8 lbs

Product Details

BrandDayton Audio
ModelDATS LA
Part Number390-805
UPC848791010880
Unit of MeasureEach
Weight4.8

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