The acoustic capsule measures 450mm long and 320mm wide, or less than 18" x 13". That's one big advantage, says Melville, but the weight of the 3kVA diesel generator has also gone down from 80kgs to just 56kgs.

The M3D is fully water cooled for guaranteed output under all temperature conditions. By water-cooling the electrical alternator as well as the engine, GenACis says the ambient air temperature of even the hottest engine room will not de-rate the Dolphin generator output.

The company says the unit provides 3kVA of 230v power, around 2.8kW continuously.

Even blue water cruisers where, says Melville, historically a minimum 4kVA generator was essential, particularly if AC powered water makers were used, can now consider this generator because of the latest developments in efficient DC watermakers, allowing the generator to run in battery charger support.

As an option, at the touch of a button the generator will drop its running speed down to an optimum 2600 rpm. In this mode, the noise level is even quieter, fuel economy is maximised and service life greatly extended.

The AC power will reduce to 1.7kW, which is fine for keeping the water hot and that allimportant extended battery charging period to really let the batteries absorb their charge over a longer period.

The introductory price for the basic Dolphin M3D is £3695 +VAT retail (or £3995 + VAT with the optional economy system).

GenACis Tel: 01202 624356. Fax: 01202 625842 Email: david@genacis.com Web: www.genacis.com