Introduction: Meet the MSH30‑IP — a weatherproof IP/PoE music horn speaker
The MSH30‑IP is a purpose‑built 30 W network “music horn” speaker designed for reliable speech, paging and background music in both indoor and outdoor public‑address systems. Combining a re‑entrant horn with a high‑frequency driver and an integrated Terracom IP/PoE audio module, the MSH30‑IP moves audio, paging and device control onto an IP network. Its Class‑D amplification, built‑in DSP, local message storage and rugged IP66 enclosure make it a versatile choice where weather resistance and networked audio are essential.
Key highlights:
- 30 W rated power with efficient Class‑D amplification (2×20 W architecture)
- Network audio via PoE / PoE+ with SIP/VoIP support and common codecs
- Comprehensive built‑in DSP for tight control of audio behaviour
- Local message storage and microSD expansion for autonomous announcements
- IP66 weatherproof enclosure and robust mounting hardware for harsh environments
Detailed specifications and benefits
Understanding the technical specification of the MSH30‑IP helps explain why it is suited to demanding public‑address and background music applications. Below are the key specifications followed by the practical benefits they deliver on site.
- Model:MSH30‑IP
- Rated power:30 W (Class‑D amplifier using a 2×20 W architecture)
- Driver impedance:8 Ω
- Frequency response:Approximately 70 Hz – 16,500 Hz (BS EN60268‑5)
- Sensitivity / SPL:≈ 99 dB @1 m @1 W (average 100 Hz–10 kHz)
- Environmental rating:IP66 (weatherproof)
- Enclosure material:UV‑stabilised ABS (RAL7035 light grey) with stainless steel bracket
- Storage:~200 MB internal plus microSD slot (up to 512 GB)
- Network / codecs:PoE / PoE+, SIP/VoIP, G.711u, G.711a, G.722, PCM16K, MP3
- I/O:3 control inputs and 1 contact/relay output for external event triggering
- Mount:U‑bracket (stainless steel / aluminium); cable gland provided
- Dimensions (approx.):442 × 260 × 288–305 mm
- Weight (approx.):≈ 5.5 kg
- Colour / finish:Light grey (RAL7035)
Practical benefits derived from these specifications:
- Seamless IP integration:PoE and SIP/VoIP support mean the speaker can be powered and managed over a single Ethernet cable, simplifying installation and enabling centralised control via standard network infrastructure.
- Energy‑efficient amplification:Class‑D amplification provides high efficiency and reliable power delivery with a compact thermal footprint — useful in exposed installations.
- Reliable outdoor operation:The IP66 rating and UV‑stabilised ABS housing with stainless fastenings ensure the speaker resists dust, heavy rain and prolonged sunlight exposure.
- Built‑in DSP:Features such as ducker (for priority paging), AGC (automatic gain control), parametric EQ, hi/low pass filtering and compressor/limiter allow installers to tune the system for clarity and intelligibility without external processors.
- Onboard storage for messages:Internal storage plus a microSD slot lets you store evacuation messages, chimes or pre‑recorded announcements locally so the speaker can operate autonomously if the network is compromised.
- External event integration:Inputs and relay output let the speaker react to third‑party sensors or control systems (for example, fire alarms or access control events) to trigger preconfigured audio actions.
Use cases and scenarios where the MSH30‑IP excels
The MSH30‑IP is engineered for situations where weather resistance, networked audio capability and intelligible speech are priorities. Typical applications include:
- Outdoor pools and leisure centres:Corrosion‑resistant materials and IP66 protection make the speaker suitable for humid, chlorine‑exposed environments. Built‑in DSP helps ensure announcements are audible over background activity.
- Transport hubs and platforms:PoE networking lets operators integrate the speaker into station PA systems and paging consoles without running separate audio cabling. The horn design provides focused projection for platform announcements.
- Stadia and sports venues:Ruggedness, SPL capability and parametric EQ allow system designers to tune coverage and maintain clarity across seating areas and concourses.
- Industrial sites and manufacturing yards:IP66 rating and robust mounting hardware withstand harsh outdoor or dusty industrial conditions. Local message storage is useful where network reliability is variable.
- Retail and campus outdoor paging:Background music and scheduled messaging are easy to implement via SIP/MP3 streaming and local playback from microSD storage.
In short, the MSH30‑IP is particularly well suited to any networked paging or background‑music application that demands weatherproofing, audio processing and straightforward IP connectivity.
Comparison with similar products on the market
When evaluating an IP/PoE horn speaker like the MSH30‑IP, consider how it compares to two broad alternatives: conventional analog horn speakers (often used with 70/100V line amplifiers) and other networked IP speakers.
- Compared to analog horn speakers:Traditional analog horns require separate audio feeds (amplifiers and 100V line wiring). The MSH30‑IP eliminates the need for dedicated audio cabling and remote amplifiers by using PoE and integrated amplification. It also adds DSP, local storage and SIP capability — features rarely found in simple analog horns.
- Compared to other IP/PoE speakers:Many IP speakers target indoor use and miniaturised form factors. The MSH30‑IP differentiates by using a re‑entrant horn and robust IP66 housing specifically for outdoor and high‑noise environments, and by offering a larger onboard storage capacity and a full suite of DSP tools. Look for similar models from other manufacturers when you need features such as PoE+, SIP compliance and weatherproofing, but verify environmental rating, DSP capability and physical mounting hardware before deciding.
- Cost and value:At a suggested retail price of approximately 699.00 (currency dependant), the MSH30‑IP positions itself as a mid‑to‑premium offering for professional installers — delivering networked convenience and weatherproof reliability that can reduce installation time and total system cost compared with multi‑component analog setups.
Customer feedback and installer comments
While individual experiences vary by deployment, typical feedback from installers and system integrators highlights a few recurring positives:
- "Easy to integrate with our SIP paging server and reduced cabling made the site install much faster." — anonymous systems integrator
- "DSP presets and the ducker feature meant live announcements were intelligible even in noisy outdoor areas." — anonymous stadium AV technician
- "The IP66 housing and stainless mounting hardware survived a seaside pool installation without corrosion issues after multiple seasons." — anonymous leisure centre manager
These anonymised comments reflect common themes: network simplicity, audio clarity and environmental durability. Prospective buyers should check local references and seek trial units for critical projects to verify performance in situ.
Practical considerations before purchase and installation
There are a few practical points to keep in mind:
- Power and POE:Ensure your network switches support PoE/PoE+ as required by your intended power budget and number of units. PoE simplifies wiring but verify budget for multiple speakers on a single switch.
- Mounting and aiming:The U‑bracket provides flexible aiming, but proper site surveying and sound coverage planning will help achieve intelligibility and comply with local regulations about sound levels.
- Compliance and safety:Installation should be carried out by a qualified installer. Confirm CE/UKCA and other local certification details with the manufacturer or distributor. The product lists no specified warranty in the supplied data — check warranty and support terms before purchase.
- Network security:As with any networked device, plan for secure configuration and management (VLANs, access controls and firmware update policies) to maintain system integrity.
Conclusion: Why choose the MSH30‑IP?
The MSH30‑IP is a compelling option when you need a weatherproof, networked horn speaker with built‑in processing and local storage. Its combination of PoE/VoIP integration, efficient Class‑D amplification, comprehensive DSP and IP66-rated ruggedness make it especially suitable for outdoor pools, transport hubs, stadia and industrial sites. For installers and integrators, the MSH30‑IP can reduce cabling complexity, centralise audio management and provide resilient on‑site messaging capability.
Whether you are specifying a new public‑address system or upgrading an existing analog installation, the MSH30‑IP delivers the key features that modern IP audio deployments demand: ease of installation, reliable outdoor performance and flexible audio control. For projects where weather resistance, speech intelligibility and network integration are priorities, this model is worth serious consideration.
