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FROM THE EDITOR...
While the first half of the year was packed with expos, the trade show calendar eases over the summer months before picking up again with PLASA in September. In May I dusted off my passport for a solo trip to PALM Expo in Mumbai, and then a couple of weeks later I joined the rest of the team for InfoComm in Las Vegas, where we held the annual MONDO-DR Awards, and we’re happy to feature one of the winning projects on this issue’s cover – Die Welle. Next year’s ceremony is set to be even bigger and better as we return to Orlando.
In a packed issue, we have a detailed venue report on the technology enhancing hotels, while Daisy reports from the HARMAN Professional Solutions factory in Pecs, Hungary. Also inside, we explore the latest Illuminarium install – the first of five locations not in a purpose-built facility; we have an interview with long-time loudspeaker designer Hugh Sarvis; and there’s a deep-dive into the unique ARTEXPLORER museum boat, which is currently sailing around the Mediterranean enchanting its visitors with a custom LED tunnel. Enjoy the issue, and please get in touch if you have any feedback!
Expert is an award-winning architectural lighting control system from Pharos. Expert Touch provides professional, attractive touchscreen interfaces for end-user selection of scenes, colour and intensity overrides.
• Auto-generated user interfaces
• Available on mobile devices using the free Expert Touch app
• Also available via elegant Expert Touch wall stations
IN BRIEF
Moreleta Church puts faith in Pixel Plus and Blackmagic Design
Stage Audio Works was enlisted to reinvent the video infrastructure inside South Africa’s Moreleta Church, which seats 7,000 and welcomes both in-person and online worshippers every weekend.
“We had been talking to the client for several months about upgrading their current video system,” said Stage Audio Works’ Lee Thomson. “They were considering an overall video upgrade for centre, left and right screens, so the first phase of the project included two new side screens, two cameras and a new videoswitching solution.”
Moreleta Church opens its doors twice every Sunday – at 9am and 5pm. Additionally, the church also hosts dozens of external events across the year, so having a video system that was flexible to support and adapt to these needs was important.
Stage Audio Works relied on an LED screen solution from Pixel Plus that was supported by Blackmagic Design cameras for the mixture of events.
The video solution comprises 1,360 Pixel Plus P4 LED modules set in a custom frame, while video control comes from an all-inone NovaStar VX1000 controller that integrates video processing and video controlling in one device.
Stage Audio Works also installed two of Blackmagic Design’s selfcontained Studio Cameras. Blackmagic Design Mini Converters handle the video signals and two Stage Plus Power Cubes ensure that power distribution is seamless through D-Curve circuit breakers specifically designed for LED screens.
“All audio communications are handled through a Hollyland Solidcom M1 system, a wireless intercom solution offering full-duplex functionality,” noted Thomson. “We chose Hollyland because of their commitment to high-quality audio, and the solution is easy to use. It supports numerous calls with one main station and up to eight belt packs, which results in a much smoother user experience.”
www.stageaudioworks.com
IN BRIEF
The Viper Room amplifies its legendary status with a dBTechnologies upgrade
Photos:
Nick Giumenti
Over the past 30 years, The Viper Room, located on Hollywood’s famed Sunset Strip, has grown into one of the world’s most beloved rock ’n’ roll destinations.
Recently, the Viper Room doubled down on their commitment to live sound and upgraded to the latest dBTechnologies VIO C12 two-way active line-source loudspeakers.
“We loved our existing VIO L208 system, and when it was time for an upgrade, we immediately thought of dBTechnologies,” said Tommy Black, General Manager for The Viper Room.
“dBTechnologies provide systems for much larger venues, festivals, and tours, but they still make the time for us – they call, they check in, they come by, and they’re great with artists. They understand customer service, so they were the natural first choice for our upgrade.”
System integrator Don Bish suggested the VIO C12s after using it successfully at outdoor festivals. “We figured that if the VIO series performed well at 20,000 attendee festivals they’d kill it at the Viper Room,” he commented.
“A night club is much different than an amphitheatre, so putting a powerful VIO speaker array into a space like this had to be done carefully. However, the dBTechnologies VIO C12s didn’t disappoint. The installation was seamless and now the club sounds better than ever.
“The Viper Room posed some challenges. It’s a smaller space, with low ceiling height and reflective surfaces. dBTechnologies Aurora Net software made a big difference,” Bish continued.
“We were able to fine-tune individual EQ and amplification power settings on each loudspeaker to get it perfect for the room… and the result is a seamless sound field with no boominess or harsh reflections.”
www.dbtechnologies.com
SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY
ARENA BAR CONCERT HALL HOTEL
SCOTIABANK ARENA TORONTO, CANADA
HOUSE OF WORSHIP
ROCK BAR BALI BALI, INDONESIA
THE TUNG AUDITORIUM, LIVERPOOL, UK
NIGHTCLUB
SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY
MULTIPURPOSE VENUE MUSEUM
LUZ CUENCA SAN MIGUEL CHURCH, CUENCA, SPAIN
DIE WELLE (THE WAVE) OBERHAUSEN, GERMANY
EPHESUS EXPERIENCE MUSEUM IZMIR, TURKEY
THANK YOU TO ALL OUR SPONSORS
JAKARTA, INDONESIA
MANTRA
COPACABANA PALACE, A BELMOND HOTEL, RIO, BRAZIL
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF OUR WINNERS
PARKS & ATTRACTIONS PERFORMANCE VENUE RESTAURANT RETAIL & LESURE
SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY
WAKE THE TIGER BRISTOL, UK
THE STAGE FOR U2:UV ACHTUNG BABY LIVE AT SPHERE LAS VEGAS, USA
SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY
DUCK & WAFFLE EDINBURGH, UK PRINTWORKS MANCHESTER, UK
STADIUM THEATRE TRANSPORT & BUILT ENVORONMENT SUSTAINABILITY AWARD
SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY
THE OLYMPIC STADIUM OF EBIMPÉ ABIDJAN, IVORY COAST
SALZBURG STATE THEATRE SALZBURG, AUSTRIA
CHANGI AIRPORT –TERMINAL 2 SINGAPORE THE ABSEN INTELLIGENT MANUFACTURING CENTRE IN HUIZHOU CHINA
IN BRIEF
Meyer Sound Constellation at BOCOM NEW BUND 31
Performing Arts Centre sets the Bar for Sonic Power and Flexibility in China
A resplendent new addition to the cultural life of Shanghai, Bank of Communications NEW BUND 31 Performing Arts Center offers state-of-the-art technical facilities for hosting events of any type, from business conferences to pop and symphonic concerts, jazz festivals, and Broadway plays.
The 2,500-seat Grand Theater is the first venue of this size anywhere to offer a ‘high-power’ Meyer Sound Constellation acoustic system, one capable of creating a broad palette of natural-sounding aural environments and – when called on to do so – envelope audiences in dynamic immersive sound experiences using the Spacemap Go spatial sound design and mixing tool.
The extraordinary capabilities of the system were showcased with a unique opening production that combined symphonic, jazz, electronic, pop, and dramatic performances for an auditory feast with Constellation optimising the hall for each different genre.
The system installed is unique in that the great majority of the 320 self-powered, full-range loudspeakers distributed laterally and overhead throughout the hall are higherpowered models such as the UPM-1XP and ULTRA-X20XP, each capable of carrying high-level discrete sounds throughout the auditorium. This allows sound designers to create dynamic immersive sound experiences, either with Constellation off or in conjunction with a Constellation acoustic preset. Such dual-use capability previously was offered only in auditoriums seating at most a few hundred. For amplified performances, the hall has installed a permanent reinforcement system comprising Meyer Sound LYON, LEOPARD, and LINA line array loudspeakers with deep bass support from 1100-LFC low-frequency control elements. The system is also unique in that it is the first to integrate loudspeakers for Constellation’s active stage shell into the LED video wall. The loudspeakers inside rotate so that the wall can be erected with either the passive wall surface or the active video screens facing the auditorium.
www.meyersound.com
JULY
JULY 17-19
INFOCOMM ASIA BANGKOK, THAILAND www.infocomm-asia.com
AUG 21-23
INTEGRATE SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA www.Integrate-expo.com
SEP 1-3 SEP 3-5 SEP 13 - 16
PLASA LONDON, UK www.plasashow.com
INFOCOMM INDIA MUMBAI, INDIA www.infocomm-india.com
IBC AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS www.show.ibc.org
OCTOBER
OCT 1-3
LLB EXPO STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN www.llbexpo.se
OCT 14-18
GITEX GLOBAL DUBAI, UAE www.gitex.com
OCT 22-23
CHURCH FACILITIES CONFERENCE & EXPO CHATTANOOGA, TENNESSEE, USA www.churchfacilitiesexpo.com
OCT 22-24
LEAT HAMBURG, GERMANY www.leatcon.com
OCT 25-27
AES NEW YORK, USA www.aes2.org
NOVEMBER
NOV 6-7
MEET VIENNA, AUSTRIA www.meet-austria.at
NOV 13-15
INTERBEE TOKYO www.inter-bee.com
NOV 26-27
JTSE PARIS, FRANCE www.jtse.fr
HOTELS
Upgrades and enhancements in hotels from around the world.
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
COMPANY: Adlib
LOCATION: Edinburgh, Scotland
Photos: Steve Sroka
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh in Old Town’s India Buildings blends luxury and technology, reflecting the brand ethos through personalised service and a fusion of food, music, design, and local culture. With Adlib, they enhanced the guest experience with a bespoke audio environment, aligning with the brand’s musical focus and commitment to excellence. The hotel’s Commons Club, a central social hub, features distinct spaces such as The Bar, The Shag Room, The Kitchen, and The Restaurant, each offering a unique experience. The Bar, equipped with QSC AD-S4T loudspeakers and QSC AD-S28T subwoofers, provides a cosy setting for guests to enjoy cocktails and connect with others. The Shag Room, powered by LA2Xi and L-Acoustics X8 loudspeakers, offers an immersive audio experience in an intimate environment.
On the lower level, guests discover The Kitchen and The Restaurant, showcasing local and international cuisine. These dining venues are enhanced by discreet audio installations featuring QSC AD-S.SAT loudspeakers and QSC AD-S.SUB subwoofers concealed in furnishings. Eve, a dedicated live venue, restaurant, and coffee bar at the hotel, features industry-leading audio equipment, including the main hang of L-Acoustics A10i Wide and A10i Focus loudspeakers per side with KS28 subwoofers behind. Two pairs of L-Acoustics X12 delay loudspeakers complement these to maintain consistent sound levels throughout the room without making the area immediately in front of the stage overbearing. For mixing and playback, Adlib integrated an Allen & Heath SQ5 console with a DX168 Stagebox, two Pioneer CDJ2000NXS2 decks, a Pioneer DJM900 mixer, and two limited-edition red Technics SL1200M7L turntables to keep within the brand colours. The Courtyard, equipped with QSC loudspeakers, ensures a fantastic audio experience indoors and outdoors, while Greyfriars Hall, a versatile function room, offers impeccable sound quality with L-Acoustics Syva loudspeakers and bass extensions. Across public areas like the Coffee Bridge, Funny Library, Reception, or Oculus Lounge, guests can enjoy high-quality audio from QSC pendant and ceiling loudspeakers discreetly integrated into the spaces. With over 120 loudspeakers integrated by Adlib, the audio environment at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh has been transformed, enhancing the overall guest experience, and paying homage to the
brand’s musical heritage. The networking aspect of the audio installation at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh plays a crucial role in delivering reliable audio distribution and a smooth user experience for the hotel’s staff throughout the building.
The installation utilises the QSC CXD8.4Q, CXD4.3Q, and CXD4.2Q network power amplifiers to amplify the audio signals, ensuring crystalclear sound reproduction across all venues. The QSC Q-Sys I/O-8 Flex expands the system’s input and output capabilities, accommodating various audio sources and destinations.
At the heart of the network infrastructure are the QSC NS-1148P and NS-1124P Q-Sys network switches, facilitating smooth communication between devices for optimal performance. These components create a robust and intricate audio ecosystem within the hotel, offering its users an efficient and feature-packed audio solution that is easy to use via a web browser or dedicated iPad tablets anywhere in the building.
The majority of the hotel is situated within a historic building, which presented challenges in installing a building-wide audio system in the required locations, particularly concerning cabling. It was essential to ensure that this infrastructure did not obstruct or damage the distinctive features that contribute to the building’s character and uniqueness. This often involved routing cabling in unconventional ways to avoid these elements or ensuring that speakers in specific locations seamlessly blended into the surroundings, such as using custom-coloured cabinets. Additionally, audio speakers were strategically positioned to harmonise with other elements in the room while maintaining the necessary audio quality throughout all public spaces in the hotel.
This hotel project is a unique venue that demanded a sophisticated audio management system to cater to a diverse range of public and private spaces, each with distinct acoustic and aural requirements. Some areas necessitated the audio system to be discreetly concealed, with both loudspeakers and audio inputs designed to blend seamlessly with the unique décor of each space. This approach ensured functionality when required, while remaining inconspicuous to the general public and venue patrons.
www.adlib.co.uk
HimmerLand
COMPANY: Genelec
LOCATION: Farsø, Denmark
Set in the rolling hills of the Danish countryside, HimmerLand is an idyllic resort combining golf and spa facilities with award-winning bistros, a bowling alley, outdoor sporting activities and flexible meeting spaces. Known as the place where leisure, pampering and professionalism meet, HimmerLand recently expanded its offering to include a large multipurpose hall, smaller meeting rooms, a golf simulator and fitness centre. Leading the AV design and integration was COMM2IG – a Danish company specialising in technology solutions – who opted for a Genelec Smart IP loudspeaker system.
“The off-axis dispersion of Genelec models is excellent, which is very helpful for meeting rooms,” explained Søren Maibom, Solution Manager and Sound Designer at COMM2IG. “HimmerLand also wanted a very Nordic design for these spaces, and Genelec’s form factor works really well in this context. In fact, the team wanted to hide the loudspeaker system initially, but after seeing how sleek and beautiful Genelec’s Smart IP models were, they decided to put them in full view right next to the screens.”
COMM2IG chose six of Genelec’s 4430 Smart IP loudspeakers in black for the meeting spaces. “The Smart IP models were an excellent fit as they offer a local analogue input in addition to being a networked IP solution. They can also be monitored remotely, which is great for troubleshooting,” says Maibom.
Following the success of the Smart IP solution in the meeting rooms, Maibom and his team once again looked to the brand for help for the Larsens Sportsbar & Bistro. “We decided on another Smart IP solution –comprising a combination of 22 of the 4420 and 4430 models – mainly because of the tight timeframe we were working to,” he explained.
“The models are incredibly easy to set up and use, and the Smart IP Manager software is a game changer.”
For HimmerLand, the attraction to Genelec wasn’t just the superior sound quality of Smart IP loudspeakers, but the brand’s commitment to sustainability, too. The resort is dedicated to preserving the picturesque countryside it calls home by reducing its carbon footprint wherever possible. The low power consumption of the Smart IP family — with its efficient Class D amplifier design and PoE compatibility — aligned completely with HimmerLand’s values.
“The facility manager didn’t believe me when I told him that the power consumption for the whole system was just 120W,” recalled Maibom.
“When all 22 loudspeakers in the sports bar are run at an SPL of 75 dB, they draw around 5.2 W each, which is amazing.
“This is why Smart IP was a great fit for HimmerLand. The loudspeakers are good looking and extremely powerful, run off a single CAT cable, have low power consumption, and the fact that they use efficient Class D onboard amplification means that they don’t produce much heat, which reduces the load on the resort’s air conditioning.”
On the ground floor, COMM2IG supplied a Smart IP solution across the entrance hall, bar area, seating area and a VIP space for private parties. On the first floor, the volume is louder as it caters for a more typical sports bar/nightclub vibe, so most of the loudspeakers were installed there, alongside four screens that show regular sports content. Additionally, there is a children’s playroom with interactive projection, where a set of Smart IP models are installed, too. AMX is used to control the video and a Q-SYS control system takes care of the audio.
“The feedback from the client has been exceptional,” concluded Maibom. “Everyone is really happy with the system and how it looks. We know that the new system will serve HimmerLand well – for many years to come.”
www.genelec.com
Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel
COMPANY: Pharos Architectural Controls
LOCATION: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
As part of a lighting renovation on the façade of the world-famous Copacabana Palace, a Belmond Hotel, a system from Pharos Architectural Controls is being used for lighting control. Renowned design and lighting company LD Studio was commissioned to deliver the redevelopment of the façade lighting. The project was led by architect and certified lighting designer Monica Luz Lobo. It was important to the owners of the hotel that the project brought together the tradition of the famed hotspot, with a contemporary feel.
To fulfil the lighting control element of the design, a Designer Lighting Playback Controller (LPC) from Pharos was specified to control a range of architectural linear solutions from LED lighting manufacturer Tryka. The system utilises DMX technology and enables the façade to be changed to different colours, patterns and themes when required, triggered by an iPad touch interface.
One of the main challenges was the short deadline given for completion, and the success of the project relied on all partners working symbiotically, which added pressure on delivering results within the specified timeframe.
Another significant challenge was the need to integrate contemporary, energy-efficient LED lighting technology to illuminate the façade while maintaining the traditional charm and heritage of the historic hotel.
Luz Lobo had to strike a balance between the hotel’s iconic status and the need for modernisation. Her task was to ensure that the lighting design met the aesthetic and functional requirements of the project. This involved creating dynamic lighting effects that could be adjusted for different occasions, such as international holidays and national events.
Luz Lobo was able to achieve this by bringing her unique vision to life using a lighting control system from Pharos Architectural Controls. A two universe Designer LPC (Lighting Playback Controller) from Pharos was specified to fulfil the lighting control element of the design.
The LPC features individually controllable and independently running timelines and scenes. It offers the freedom of real-time manual overrides, with the versatility of powerful show control and integration features. With a compact form and minimal power requirements, the LPC can be installed anywhere.
By illuminating the façade, the hotel can now be appreciated during the evening darkness, with its architecture and striking nature being explored through light. To work in harmony with the new lighting, the façade has been restored; and painted in a unique shade of pearly white to showcase its century-old beauty.
By utilising energy-efficient LED lighting, the project aligns with sustainability goals while enhancing the hotel’s nighttime aesthetic. This environmentally conscious approach underscores a commitment to responsible design and operation. www.pharoscontrols.com
High Performance Loudspeaker Systems
Crowne Plaza Docklands
COMPANY: Optimal Audio
LOCATION: London, UK
Situated close to the O2 Arena and Excel Exhibition centre in London, Crowne Plaza Docklands is a 210-bedroom hotel featuring the brand’s new Fremantle Bar & Restaurant concept.
Creating the Australasian-inspired all-day restaurant involved a significant recent upgrade to existing audio infrastructure, a project tasked to Uxbridge-based AV specialist Middlesex Sound.
Briefed to deliver a high-quality, zoned audio system that met the hotel’s specific aesthetic requirements, Middlesex Sound supplied and installed a turnkey solution from Optimal Audio, as company director Darrel Olivier explained: “There were four separate zones we needed to cater for,” he stated. “The main bar, the restaurant, a private dining area and terrace. It was very important to deliver consistent, high-quality audio across the spaces, so we employed 16 Optimal Audio Cuboid 6 speakers, which ensured the coverage we needed.
“The Cuboid 6 was an ideal fit for this project because it represents excellent value, allows for very flexible mounting and positioning options with the included flying hardware and sounds extremely good. The fact that the speaker is available in white as well as black meant they fit with the Fremantle design aesthetic too.”
Alongside the Cuboid 6 speakers, a pair of Cuboid 6TX models (featuring the same two-way, full range, 6.5-inch driver/1-inch silk dome tweeter
design as the Cuboid 6, with additional 60w transformer for use on 70 or 100v taps) and two Cuboid 5 speakers also featured in the installation.
A Zone 4 audio controller manages the speakers across each of the zones, its onboard DSP, flexible routing and programmability providing versatile but straightforward control for inputs that include “two music players and a BT Sports TV package,” according to Olivier. “It’s a great solution, with built-in presets for the Cuboid speakers, so it makes set-up and day-to-day use extremely simple.
“To give staff hands-on access we also installed a ZonePad 4 wall controller in the master position in the bar, so any of the four zones can be adjusted from here. It’s a very intuitive, unobtrusive panel that any member of staff can operate – the private dining area also features the even simpler ZonePad 1 panel.”
Reflecting on the project and response to the audio system, Olivier concluded: “We are seeing an increasing demand from our customer’s customers for really high quality audio to create an atmosphere and add to their experience in hospitality environments.
“Optimal Audio provides a valuable ‘one stop shop’ solution for projects like the Fremantle bar and restaurant with zoners and speakers that deliver great performance and ease of use at an excellent price point.” www.optimal-audio.co.uk
Stradom House Autograph Collection by Marriott
COMPANY: Bose Professional
LOCATION: Krakow, Poland
Tasked with designing and installing a sound system for myriad zones and functions across the Stradom House Autograph Collection by Marriott hotel, Krakow-based integrators Grupa CLUE collaborated with Bose Professional to meet client expectations and design a system which incorporates the latest technologies, seamlessly integrated into the historical property. The multifunctionality of the facility and the need to create spaces for both work and relaxation required the entire system to be flexible and multitasking.
The audiovisual system of the hotel has been divided into individual subsystems based on functionality and scope of operation. Due to the continuous or multi-hour nature of work in the hotel, the devices used to create the multimedia system infrastructure are characterised by high reliability and stability of operation.
The venue features over 130 Bose Professional speakers (60 of which feature customised enclosures), 13 amplifiers, 10 wireless and 10 wired microphones solution from Shure, 60 Dante input and 40 Dante output locations, with one Bose Control Space EX1280 DSP processor managing the entire audio system. Ceiling speakers, surface mounted speakers and pendant speakers from the DesignMax series feature prominently across the hotel’s different zones, with a selection of PowerMatch and PowerShare amplifiers fitted into the venue’s three AV racks.
The project went beyond the standard approach, where the main goal would typically be to provide background music and adjust the overall sound level in hotel corridors, restrooms, or a few other spaces. Instead, considering the specific needs of the clients and the desired functionality, the hotel was designed with several unique features that exceed the standards. Across venues such as Hedwig’s Bar & Cellar wine bar, The John Dory and GAIA restaurants, the conference area and Sól Spa wellness centre, all spaces have solutions tailored to their acoustic needs.
The hotel’s designers aimed to seamlessly integrate speakers into the interiors of the investment, maintaining the style and historic character of the spaces, which was crucial for creating a cohesive and harmonious atmosphere throughout the Stradom House hotel. Any customisation of equipment, allowing for matching with the colours and finishing materials used, was an ideal way to embed audio devices into the fabric of the interiors, emphasising the unique character and luxurious style of the hotel.
“Collaborating with Bose Professional proved to be crucial in achieving these goals,” said Radosław Janusz, Project Manager for Grupa CLUE. “With a rich offering of various types of speakers and mounting systems, we had the opportunity to tailor audio equipment to each space and the client’s needs. This allowed us to create personalised solutions that not only meet expectations regarding sound quality, but also seamlessly blend with the character and style of the interiors, creating unforgettable experiences for guests at the Stradom House hotel.”
Rafał Stanowski, PR & marketing manager at Stradom House Autograph Collection, said:
“This project required a non-standard approach and posed a great challenge, especially at Hedwig’s Bar, which is located in a former chapel. The baroque interior has unusual acoustics that are characteristic of churches, which posed a great challenge for the sound systems. Thanks to the cooperation with Bose, Hedwig’s has quickly become one of the most recognisable places in Krakow.” www.boseprofessional.com
Fairmont Dubai Skyline Hotel
COMPANY: INFiLED LOCATION: Dubai, UAE
INFiLED has installed a monumental LED screen at the Fairmont Dubai Skyline Hotel, along the busy Sheikh Zayed Road in the United Arab Emirates. INFiLED’s MV-Series (70m by 25m L-Shape) with a front face of 50m by 25m and a side face of 20m by 25m emerged as the ideal choice for this installation as it offers a remarkable image quality, suited for Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH) advertising. Fairmont Dubai Skyline Hotel is a newly launched residential project by RSG Group of Companies with an advantageous location in Sufouh Gardens.
The journey of bringing INFiLED’s display to life at the Fairmont Dubai Skyline Hotel began with a primary goal to seamlessly integrate the massive L-shaped screen into the hotel location with a need for a lightweight product that could ensure both safety and structural integrity. In addition, due to the big size of the screen, the customer preferred to have a screen which would operate without air conditioning.
INFiLED put together a comprehensive planning phase which involved not only technical aspects of installing the screen but also the aesthetic considerations to ensure a minimalist design.
Spanning a total of 1,750 sq m and totalling just over 16m pixels, Samer Otaibi, INFiLED VP Middle East described the process of finding the correct LED solution: “RSG Group invested more than a year in conducting multiple technical research to find the most capable LED Display manufacturer,” he said. “Their goal was to find a supplier that could provide the highest quality technology to complement the vision of the high-end hotel’s management for this iconic location. We are pleased that INFiLED was the chosen for this project, and we take great pride in having our screens installed in this prestigious luxury five-star hotel.”
The installation of the INFiLED MV-Series at the Fairmont Dubai Skyline Hotel represents a landmark achievement in the realm of digital out-of-home (DOOH) advertising and visual display technology. Positioned as an iconic and strategic DOOH screen along the busy business road in Dubai, it stands as a witness to the intersection of innovation and design. www.infiled.com
Wyndham Ocean Dragon
COMPANY: Harman Professional Solutions
LOCATION: Hai Phong, Vietnam
TNNSI, a leading system integrator in Vietnam, recently provided Hai Phong’s prestigious Wyndham Ocean Dragon hotel with a comprehensive HARMAN Professional networked AV and control system. The hotel hired TNNSI to install a state-of-the-art and easy-to-use AV system that would deliver five-star experiences for guests in the meeting rooms. In order to meet the hotel’s goals TNNSI installed a comprehensive HARMAN Professional networked audio and control system using JBL speakers, AKG microphones, Crown amplifiers and AMX network and control devices.
“We are delighted to have partnered with HARMAN for this prestigious project,” stated Vu Anh Tuan, Founder & CEO, TNNSI Co., Ltd. “HARMAN’s reputation for delivering high-quality, professional-grade products aligned perfectly with our vision. We are proud to be one of the first companies in the APAC region to utilise the AMX Precis PR-0602 and PR-0808.
“The seamless integration between the AMX control system and the AKG Audio Conference System has significantly improved meeting operations, allowing for smooth control and monitoring of signals from AKG, JBL, and CROWN. Additionally, we successfully integrated the AKG audio conference system with a Sennheiser TeamConnect 2 system, enabling seamless transitions between local and online meetings.”
To meet the client’s requirements, TNNSI installed a range of AMX network and control solutions, including AMX Precis 4K60 HDMI switchers, NX2200 Netlinx Integrated Controllers, ACR-5100 Acendo Core meeting space collaboration systems, MD-1002 Modero G5 wall mount touch panels, and DX link transmitters.
The team also included AKG CS3 conference microphones, Crown DCi Series amplifiers and JBL Control 16C/T ceiling tile speakers.
TNNSI selected the AMX Precis video switcher for its fully featured HDMI video routing and affordability. The Wyndham Ocean Dragon’s NX-2200 NetLinx NX Integrated Controller offers a scalable platform that combines high performance and comprehensive network security features while accommodating to the diverse needs of their customers hosting events in the venue. The hotel owners expressed their satisfaction with the completed project, acknowledging TNNSI for providing the best AV solution. They have shown their confidence in TNNSI by expressing their intention to collaborate on future projects.
“Wyndham Ocean Dragon Hotel in Hai Phong is a luxury establishment that we are proud to work on,” said Amar Subash, VP & GM, HARMAN Professional Solutions of APAC. “Known for its state-of-the-art equipment, this project sets a new benchmark for the hospitality industry. It also aligns with our mission at HARMAN Professional Solutions where we aim to create smart experiences and drive excellence through our innovative products.”
https://pro.harman.com
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IN LAIN Hotel Cadonau
COMPANY: AtlasIED
LOCATION: Zernez, Switzerland
Located roughly one-hour from Davos, the IN LAIN Hotel Cadonau is a modern, rustic hotel featuring 14 guest rooms, including 11 suites, which is ranked 14th in the top 20 winter holiday hotels in Switzerland in the 5-star category. Hotelier and Chef Dario Cadonau and his wife, Tamara, opened the IN LAIN in 2010, remodeling a farmhouse in the Cadonau family from 1590. The Cadonaus wanted to create a memorable guest experience, including the right balance of smells, tastes and sounds.
To support their vision, under the recommendation of Jorg Steiger, owner of Switzerland-based AV integration company avidec, Cadonau chose AtlasIED’s Atmosphere audio processing and control system to accentuate the environment with audio.
A key element to the vision was adding various genres of Swiss-originated music to create a cohesive ambiance for guests in the various areas of the hotel. The hotel had several primary areas that needed music, and AtlasIED’s Atmosphere AZM8 digital signal processor was aptly suited to meet their needs.
Steiger chose the AZM8 paired with an AtlasIED AZA 404 amplifier to help deliver music and create different experiences to eight separate zones across the property. For instance, in the hotel’s reception, office, and Michelin Star-rated Vivanda restaurant, the hotel desired energy and chose Swiss pop music, with Swiss classical music for the breakfast room, and Swiss Jazz for the lounge.
One of the most celebrated aspects of the hotel is its cheesemaking room, which Cadonau and his culinary team use to make cheese, and also teach guests how to make cheese. The hotel plays Swiss holiday music to create a festive feel for guests as they learn the science and art of cheesemaking. Hotel staff accesses the Atmosphere in multiple ways, including through the web-based interface on a tablet that management can take throughout the property to adjust music playlists or volume as needed. Also, avidec worked with the hotel to determine a volume schedule to automatically adapt music volume to changing occupancy levels on any given day. In addition, avidec installed AtlasIED C-ZSV zone, source, and volume wall controllers in the lounge, breakfast room, and Vivanda restaurant to allow approved staff to change music and volume in those zones.
“The flexibility of the system was one of the biggest reasons we chose AtlasIED Atmosphere for the IN LAIN Cadonau,” said Steiger. “With a multiroom property, you can easily play different music, change it at any time, and change the volume. The flexibility and ease of use is perfect.” www.atlasied.com
The Godfrey Hotel
COMPANY: Anolis
LOCATION: Boston, USA
A spectacular new Anolis external lighting scheme is illuminating the facades of The Godfrey Hotel in Boston, picking out the detail and architectural intricacies of the impressive former Blake & Armory Building, a historic commercial site at the corner of Temple Place and Washington Street in the city’s Downtown Crossing pedestrian shopping zone.
Ron Kuszmar of PORT led the project and explained that the hotel’s owners brought them onboard to specify, design and install a new LED lighting scheme that would highlight the building in all its glory and replace the previous system dating back to when The Godfrey originally opened in 2016.
Based in Seabrook, New Hampshire, PORT is well known as a theatrical, stage and architectural lighting and control specialist. The client found them via a Google search and was impressed with some other commercial lighting installations completed by PORT around the city. The hotel is a combination of two buildings which were listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings in 2014. The 11-story Blake & Armory was designed by well-known Boston architect Arthur Hunnewell Bowditch, and the two buildings were constructed in two phases between 1904 and 1908. They vary slightly architecturally, but both feature large windows and quirky neo-Gothic details. Originally, The Godfrey Hotel lighting scheme was made up of flood type fixtures that did not light up the building very efficiently, and key to the client brief received by Kuszmar was that they wanted the sharp lines of the architecture to stand out, and to be able to change the lighting colours to mark certain occasions.
They also didn’t want additional electrical conduit running across the facades, so the fixtures had to utilise the existing two circuits of lighting power and the mounting infrastructure, so wireless control was crucial in the choice of fixtures. After extensive onsite tests with various Anolis products, Kuszmar proposed a choice of three different schemes, and from these the ArcSource Outdoor 24 MC Integral fixture was chosen, fitted with Lumen Radio CRMX modules for wireless DMX control.
“When we realised that 25 x ArcSource 24s had the power and punch to light the building, we also knew we would not have to worry about any electrical costs,” said Kuszmar.
The compact size and rounded shape blended in well with the overall building aesthetics and are located 20 feet up from pavement level where the old lights used to be, and where the architectural columns start and extend to the top of the building. The Anolis luminaires are fitted with 7° lenses to ensure they can attain the tight focus needed
to shoot up the columns and not spill into the windows or encroach on the ambience of the guest rooms.
The signature look is a crisp white, highlighting the linear elegance of the columns and beautifully outlining the shape and style of the buildings. A full new Pharos networked control system was installed as part of the project, and the colour scheme can be changed for events such as the Boston Marathon, so a series of combinations are preprogrammed into the Pharos TPC controller, which can be recalled as needed. “It’s all about problem solving,” concluded Kuszmar. He added that PORT frequently uses Robe products on various projects, so he is familiar with the “robust design quality and excellent engineering”, which added to their confidence to spec Anolis for the exterior lighting of this highly visible architectural centrepiece.
www.anolislighting.com
Photos: PORT
W Hoboken
COMPANY: LEA Professional
LOCATION: Hoboken, New Jersey, USA
Built in the early 2000s, W Hoboken’s original sound system recently began to show its age and started to experience failures, so the hotel turned to LEA Professional to rectify the problem.
Hotel staff contracted Ron Lorman of Busy Puppy Productions, as audio consultant, to design a robust audio distribution system for the hotel’s common areas and meeting rooms. Lorman specified LEA Professional amplifiers based on a recommendation from Doug Asher of Essential Communications. To minimise disruptions to guests and staff, the existing loudspeakers would remain in place for the foreseeable future.
“We discovered the existing loudspeakers were low impedance speakers; some were wired in series and other sets in series-parallel,” said Asher.
“They were running at less than two ohms because they had so many eight ohms speakers on a line. That can tax normal amplifiers quite a bit, leading to burnout. Lorman re-designed the wiring schemes to achieve more balanced operational loads, and we felt that the LEA amplifiers were the best solution because we knew they could handle a two-ohm load and operate at very reasonable temperatures. Add in all the other advanced features like the web interface, ease of setup, and control of the amplifiers, and it was a no-brainer.”
Asher’s team used an LEA Connect Series 704D to power the loudspeakers in the Ballroom. The 704 is a Dante-enabled 4-channel amplifier with 700 watts per channel, perfectly suited for small to medium-scale installations, and supports high-Z (70V or 100V) and low-Z selectable by channel, giving the hotel excess capabilities for possible future expansion.
For the meeting rooms and remaining common areas and hallways, several LEA Connect Series 168D amplifiers were installed to run the remaining speaker lines. The larger ballroom is divisible, so care had to be taken to set the zones up properly, given the possible various room combinations. While all the loudspeaker processing happens in the LEA amplifiers via the built-in DSP, hotel staff wanted complete control of background audio throughout the building.
Essential Communications deployed a Symetrix DSP in the rack room to control the system. Control pages were created in the Symetrix software that could be accessed via a web browser. Hotel management was provided with two iPads – one for the common areas and the other for the meeting rooms – that allow staff to manage all the zones, select the music, and control volume levels.
The hotel staff was so happy with the upgrade that Lorman and Essential Communications were commissioned to retrofit the restaurant as well, again with LEA amplification. Plans are being implemented to upgrade the audio systems in the former nightclub, which is now the hotel’s premier event space with skyline views, using LEA Professional amplifiers. “Commissioning the LEA amplifiers was flawless,” said Asher. “We test everything in our shop before it gets to a client site. All we did on-site was make sure we connected the more than 60 speaker runs to the right amplifiers. Everything worked when we turned on the system and started walking around the hotel, checking all the controls and the zones. Everything came up the first time; the music was playing, and it was playing in the correct zones. Everyone was really pleased about the transition from the old to the new system and how smoothly it went.” www.leaprofessional.com
Kwetu Nairobi, Curio Collection by Hilton
COMPANY: Funktion-One
LOCATION: Nairobi, Kenya
Kwetu Nairobi, Curio Collection by Hilton provides a perfect fusion of old historic charm and modern contemporary design, with a blend of comfort and luxury. Audio Feed, working closely with local partner Frontier Audio, recently installed Funktion-One sound systems in the key entertainment areas of the hotel complex. This included F101.2s and MB212s in the rooftop lounge, F81.2s in the conservatory, F1201.2s in the outdoor oasis, Evo 6SHs and BR118s for the pool deck, F55s around the pool bar and surrounding areas, with additional Funktion-One Compact Range speakers used around the venue. MC² amplification was specified throughout, with 2 x MC² Delta 80 DSP, 3 x Delta 40 DSP and 1 x Delta 20 4-channel Dante-enabled amplifiers powering the loudspeakers.
Oz Jefferies of Audio Feed said: “We had already supplied a number of projects in Kenya, notably when we installed club systems comprising Funktion-One and MC², first at Alchemist and then at Muze in Nairobi, which is now listed as one of the world’s top 100 nightclubs. “We had worked with Frontier Audio from the very beginning, including involvement in some training with their team. Frontier’s work at Kwetu
– a project which they procured by virtue of their excellent reputation – was exceptional, and we look forward to powering many more installations in the region.”
This project represents a triumph of collaboration and championing of talent and expertise in a developing market. In December 2016, Federico Pirzio-Biroli and Audio Feed’s Oz Jefferies landed in Kenya for the Kilifi New Year’s Eve festival armed with a Funktion-One sound system and a passion for sharing high-quality audio with others. Through Pirzio-Biroli’s philanthropy and Jefferies’ technical expertise, Audio Sans Frontieres was born. The goal was to take world class sound systems to places that potentially don’t have easy access to them. After providing the sound system for the New Year event, Pirzio-Biroli and Jefferies decided to keep it in Kenya, and set up Audio Sans Frontieres to manage the system and its African projects. This led to a commercial arm – Frontier Audio – being established in 2018. The company now has three full time employees, and this project showcases the benefits of the collaboration while strengthening the local expertise. www.funktion-one.com
W Edinburgh
COMPANY: 2B Heard
LOCATION: Edinburgh, Scotland
W Edinburgh is the latest jewel in the Marriott International crown, known for luxurious and contemporary designs, vibrant atmospheres, and upscale amenities. The rooms are sumptuous (suites with firepits), the flavour is minimalist, the mood is elegant, sexy, and secluded.
Atop the building’s steel-spiral-clad exterior is a 12th floor rooftop terrace that boasts not only sweeping vistas of the city’s skyline but is also the exquisite setting for a high tech multi-speaker sound system from Italian trend-setting audio manufacturer K-array, installed by London-based Link Media Systems. The large 360° terrace overlooks the most historic parts of Edinburgh, offering fantastic bird’s-eye views all around the city. It’s designed to be a no-holds-barred party space that encourages the In Crowd to let their hair down amidst the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
With help from K-Array’s UK distributor 2B Heard director Sam Nankivell, who organised a demonstration of the Italian speaker manufacturer’s Vyper line arrays, the Link Media technical team came up with a speaker system design that floods the whole terrace area with consistent sound coverage while remaining extremely discreet, and is also well protected from the often harsh weather conditions.
The brief presented acoustic challenges as the rooftop terrace is open to the elements and the inner-city property is surrounded by neighbours. “We realised straight away that we couldn’t just install a conventional sound system and hope for the best,” explained Link Media Systems project manager Eligio Castro.
“Not only is the terrace a big open space that requires fairly high SPL, but the speakers had to be unobtrusive and aimed carefully to contain
sound energy within the space, and also resistant to often harsh weather conditions.” Link Media’s innovative solution was to install 43 evenly spaced stainless steel Vyper-KV52 0.5 metre long line arrays facing inwards from the perimeter of the terrace, each one inlaid amongst the custom designed Rimex copper coloured cladding that helps underpin the W’s architectural style, and at a uniform height that works well with the low profile lazy boy seating. Serious low end is provided by 16 Rumble-KU210 dual 10-inch subwoofers which are positioned around the central core of the building, partially hidden above head height underneath the striking steel spiral ribbon that dominates the skyline and defines the hotel’s modernistic architectural signature.
The terrace sound system is powered over Dante by Kommander-KA104 amplifiers with onboard DSP from a central equipment room which also houses the BSS Soundweb signal processor. Crestron provides the user interface to give staff access to the relevant system controls and audio inputs. Downstairs on the ground floor, linking the main reception area with a further themed seating space, is the Cinematic Tunnel – a 10m-long space with plush banquette seating opposite a 32 by 9 double aspect high resolution video display. At either end of the giant screen are vertically-oriententated Vyper-KV52 line arrays which blend in imperceptibly with the display, and a pair of Rumble-KU44 subwoofers are installed under the seating for low frequency reinforcement. Additional Vyper-KV52 line arrays are concealed in alcoves above the seating to reinforce the background audio. www.2b-heard.co.uk
Photos: W Edinburgh
Moxy DTLA and AC Hotels
COMPANY: 1 SOUND
LOCATION: California, USA
Anthem SSL Productions has built a strong relationship with Moxy Hotels in the past five years, and more recently incorporated 1 SOUND loudspeakers in two of Moxy’s newest hotels. Moxy DTLA is joined by AC Hotel in a side-by-side 37-storey tower, with a first-of-its-kind multidimensional hospitality concept on one of the floors called Level 8. Anthem was awarded the entire audio integration for this project and chose 1 SOUND products.
Angelo Poulos, CEO of Anthem Productions, and 1 SOUND’s CEO Lou Mannarino put their heads together to develop an audio design, paying special attention to each unique location, particularly those inhabiting Level 8. With over 180 1 SOUND loudspeakers, this project utilised about every loudspeaker in the company’s catalogue, all powered by Powersoft amplifiers, spread across Level 8, the AC Hotel’s Lobby, La Lo La Rooftop space, AC Bar and Lounge, as well as the Moxy lobby and Bar Moxy.
The entire complex is networked via BSS Audio HiQnet London Architect with audio signal sent throughout both towers. “We had to integrate the same control system, and to be able to do routing of the music from the lobby to the elevators to the event spaces,” explained Poulos.
Level 8 is an ambitious concept by the Houston Brothers, consisting of eight immersive restaurants and clubs connected and situated back-toback. Some are relatively straightforward spaces, such as Maison Kasai, which features WSUB45i (Wall Subwoofer with a recessed French cleat) that hang flush higher up on the walls and with distributed Cannon C6s loudspeakers, and The Brown Sheep, an outdoor rooftop patio-style dining space with audio delivered by a combination of C5s and SUB12s. Other spaces also became more complex with audio. Lucky Mizu is a Japanese restaurant featuring a 40ft ‘Earth Harp’ that acts as an immersive instrument across the whole ceiling of the restaurant
Among the elements are recessed SUB10s, which 1 SOUND Custom Shop changed to match the wall’s colour, and Cannon C6s. More traditional venues like Que Barbaro, a South American restaurant, have downfiring WSUB45s suspended with threaded rods and 1 SOUND C-Clamp Accessories and C6s. “The Cannons are soft on the ear and high fidelity,” said Mannarino. “There is an extra octave of low end in the Cannons that
allows them to sound full range in all the locations. The WSUB45 also has unique properties, in that it’s a very fast transient sub, a quick sounding sub, front-loaded, with a big round sound that’s more hi-fi and matches the Cannons extremely well.”
The standout venue of Level 8 is the Sinners y Santos nightclub, with deployed Contour CT212, a three-way constant directivity horn loaded point source, as the mains at the dance floor/DJ booth, with distributed Contour CT28s, Cannon C8s as DJ monitors, SUB215s, and SUB2112s.
“This is a phenomenal space, but the project was difficult because the venue houses multiple spaces, all right next to each other,” said Poulos. “Given each space is connected, each environment had different requirements for sound – so attention to detail, sonically and aesthetically, was key.”
Another challenge that arose as loudspeakers were being installed in the Sinners y Santos nightclub was a motorised boxing ring, which required the speakers to be realigned, with extra speakers also added to the design to accommodate it.
The changes made required responsiveness and agility throughout the project. “We were signed up on this project five years before doors opened,” Poulos said. “The concept changed numerous times as the building was being constructed, and when the operator, Houston Hospitality, came in, they started tweaking more in terms of how they wanted to see each space.”
Mannarino added: “Given the time frame, we also ended up using newer 1 SOUND products that were different from what we’d originally had in the design. For example, we had designed Sinners y Santos with other 1 SOUND speakers, but then a newer model came out, the Contour CT212, which would be a better fit for the nightclub.”
Beyond the agility of the loudspeakers and user interface, the needs of this project required dexterity from both Anthem and 1 SOUND in various other ways. “The value of having one brand of loudspeakers is that we, as a brand, are part of the project,” Mannarino said. “If something could be done better, as a brand and a partner, we want to do that.”
www.1-sound.com
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ALL WEATHERS OUR RELIABILI
“I’M OF THE OPINION THAT IF YOU KEEP YOUR EYES AND EARS OPEN, YOU WILL ALWAYS LEARN SOMETHING.”
As MONDO-DR conducts this interview, audio industry veteran Hugh Sarvis is in a state of flux as he is in the middle of his final month as an official employee at Blaze Audio, where he has been heading its loudspeaker development for the last three years. Having spent his entire professional career in the industry – from designing, prototyping and making loudspeakers, to supplying equipment for major productions – 69-yearold Sarvis revealed the opportunity to move into a consultancy role with Blaze, with the door also open to other collaborations. Passionate about pattern control, Sarvis developed products that were used in Super Bowl Half Time Shows and Summer Olympic Games in the 1990s, before moving to work with line array technology in the early 2000s and then, over the past 10 years, refocussing his efforts on constant directivity – a combination of line array and point source technology. Sarvis joined Blaze Audio, a subsidiary of Pascal A/S of Denmark, in 2021, and as part of the agreement Pascal purchased his laboratory in his hometown of
Greensboro in North Carolina, which he had been using since 2014 while he was working at PreSonus.
“I’ve had this laboratory where I live for several years, and in the past few years of my time at PreSonus they started to focus more on software, and move a little bit away from loudspeaker development,” commented Sarvis. “I had known of Pascal for many years having used their amplifier modules, and I contacted them to discuss amplifiers and modules, and they mentioned that they were developing the Blaze Audio brand, as they believed that was a good way to enhance the company in the long term.
“They asked if I would join and knowing the CEO and the culture of the company, that’s when I decided to dive in with them and start designing loudspeakers for Blaze Audio.”
Sarvis had invested in his lab following the sale of his WorxAudio Technologies company to PreSonus in 2014. “There was lots of avenues that I wanted to explore, and so I bought a Four Audio ELF robot, and a Klippel system for loudspeaker measuring,
diagnostics, and control in the lab,” said Sarvis. “Also, a NFS (Near Field Scanner) allowing me to analyse a complete loudspeaker system’s directivity and frequency response over 360 degrees, and I can extrapolate data anechoically over any distance.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic I ran a lot of tests using this equipment. I was by myself a lot due to the nature of how things were, and so every day I would let tests run through the night and check the results the next morning –and I learned a lot doing that.
“I sold that equipment to Pascal when I joined the company, and they are moving all that equipment to Denmark where the Pascal and Blaze Audio headquarters is. June was my last month working officially as a Blaze Audio employee. It’s a little bittersweet, but it’s on to the next part of my life now…”
As a keen music fan, Sarvis grew up playing guitar and singing in a rock band in the mid 1970s, and when his band realised that they needed their own sound system, they had to build it themselves, and from this moment on his interest in sound reinforcement grew.
“Fortunately, there was a company here in Greensboro called Audio Unlimited, which was owned by Jim Elliot, an electrical engineer, and I got to know him really well,” said Sarvis. Through this connection, Sarvis was able to buy pro PA equipment and other gear that was not readily available at that time.
After attending Elon University studying music and moving next to the Institute of Audio Research in New York to satisfy his desire to get a better fundamental understanding of recorded sound, Sarvis returned to Greensboro to work with Elliot as a booking agent. When he got itchy feet in 1979, Sarvis decided to go it alone and started RoadWorx and WoodWorx companies – with WordWorx focussing on building raw wood speaker cabinets for companies, and RoadWorx becoming a small regional sound company.
“I was building speakers and designing systems, and by the mid ‘80s we were supplying equipment to festivals, and I had designed a new PA with Technical Audio Devices (TAD) speakers, which at the time was a division of Pioneer Electronics,” said Sarvis. “The team at TAD saw our set-up, really liked it, and WoodWorx became an OEM manufacturer for them.”
Installations division
In 1984 RoadWorx worked with country star Waylon Jennings for the first time, and that relationship was maintained for over 17 years until the singer’s retirement. The growth continued and by the mid-1990s RoadWorx has supplied equipment for artists such as Alabama, Wynonna Judd and provided the audio solution for the Super Bowl Half Time Show. The late 1990s saw the company develop an installations division as it grew and became involved in more and more projects.
However, by 2001 Sarvis was growing tired of the travel commitments that come with the live event production side of the industry and was weary of owning a company that was primarily asset driven. “I decided to scale it back, sold both RoadWorx and WoodWorx and started WorxAudio Technologies, Inc. to design and build professional loudspeaker systems for assorted markets,” said Sarvis.
“Around this time, line array technology was starting to take off, and in 2004 WorxAudio designed its first line array – TrueLine V8. The focus for us back then was pattern control, and it has remained at the forefront of my
Above: Hugh Sarvis’ RoadWorx supplied the lighting for a tour by the band Alabama in the mid 1990s.
Below: Sound and lighting is supplied by RoadWorx for the Crown Royal tour in the mid 1990s.
Bottom: An installation of WorxAudio Technologies TrueLine X1-P from 2008 at the Westminster Presbyterian Church in South Carolina.
NO WORDS NEEDED
“RECENTLY, THE TECHNOLOGY IN SMALLER 1-INCH DOME TWEETERS AND 2-INCH CONE DRIVERS HAS IMPROVED DRASTICALLY, AND YOU CAN DO A LOT WITH THEM.”
loudspeaker design philosophy. “I followed the beliefs of Floyd Toole, having read his book Sound Reproduction: The Acoustics and Psychoacoustics of Loudspeakers and Rooms, and I liked what he said, and in my humble opinion pattern control is everything in a speaker system. A loudspeaker is always influenced by whatever room it is placed and getting them to sound the best they can in every room and environment is always the main challenge, and that boils down to pattern control.
“We were selling WorxAudio products to a lot of spaces in schools and churches, and they often required a centre cluster instead of a stereo setup, and so we worked hard to develop a very wide pattern control in the products.”
With WorxAudio gaining more notoriety, Sarvis sold the brand and its designs to PreSonus in 2014, and took the role of Managing Director of its loudspeaker division in the process. From here he developed his skills with the purchase of equipment for his laboratory, and encountered Don Keele, who Sarvis admits was a big influence on him.
“I was very fortunate that during my time at PreSonus I encountered Don Keele, the inventor of the constant directivity horn design for Altec Lansing, and then at JBL along with the CBT arrays, and I was able to spend eight years with him, which certainly helped my development, especially in smaller speaker technology,” said Sarvis.
“Recently, the technology in smaller 1-inch dome tweeters and 2-inch cone drivers has improved drastically, and you can do a lot with them. I learned a lot working with Don, and that led to the development of the CDL speaker for PreSonus, which was patented.
“Then, when I came to Blaze Audio, the newest speaker we developed – CBL528 – has gain shading with patent pending design, and has 180° in horizontal and 45° vertical dispersion, and is very symmetrical with excellent pattern control. It’s a really nice product that we have been able to develop.” Sarvis acknowledges that smaller drivers are
Below: A Blaze Audio CCA10i point source loudspeaker system is installed at the Reimage Church in Winterville, North Carolina in July 2023.
Above: The Blaze Audio CCA10i, a compact arrayable point source loudspeaker, designed for medium-sized venues to large distributed systems that need a flexible, scalable speaker solution.
Below: The Blaze Audio CBL528 is a short to medium throw loudspeaker, ideally suited for a wide range of applications.
becoming more and more powerful and efficient, with the technology improving at an impressive rate in the last few years, and he’s been very impressed by the way some manufacturers are utilising them.
“One product that has impressed me a lot is the HOLOPLOT Matrix Array module – that is a remarkable development, and as a company they are really pushing the envelope and making other companies work hard to catch up,” he said.
“In terms of immersive sound development, I feel like that type of technology is the future. HOLOPLOT is one company that is using smaller drivers, and it is something that I have worked on for the past 10 years, and worked hard to develop a driver that was very efficient, with good sensitivity. Small speakers are now capable of doing that much more, but you need a great number of them to be able to steer audio – so of course it can get expensive.
“I think that loudspeaker technology is only going to grow and get better, and it’s worth noting that automobile audio in particular can help to assist that,” continued Sarvis. “A lot of R&D spend goes into car audio development, and that can trickle down into larger sound reinforcement design. And it works vice versa, because if you take the technology that goes into concert sound and push that into a car – all of that is progressively going to get better.”
One way Sarvis believes that loudspeaker technology – and indeed the collective knowledge of all things audio – can improve is via seminars and training. “There are many great learning tools out there, and I think that SynAudCon is a great training exercise for anyone involved in audio, and is really great for upcoming systems engineers,” said Sarvis. “The main instructor is Pat Brown and he organises the in-person and online seminars along with his wife Brenda Brown – it’s a great group of people. I’ve been going to the seminars for years, and I still enjoy attending them, because I’m of the opinion that if you keep your eyes and ears open, you will always learn something.”
With his own future a little uncertain, Sarvis is still keen to keep learning, and is leaving his full-time role at Blaze Audio having developed what he believes is a strong loudspeaker offering.
“I feel like the products Blaze offers speak for themselves.
The CCA-10 offers 160° horizontal pattern control, and controls that pattern down to a very low frequency, and the crossover point is low,” he said. “With enhancements in DSP and amplifiers, you can control sound much better than you could five or six years ago – things have really developed quickly in the last few years.
“Blaze have some really good people, so it’s in really good hands, and they hired some staff on the commercial side of the business that worked with me while I was at PreSonus, so they understand the type of products that I develop,” he concluded. “The products that I developed at Blaze can do a lot of things, and I feel really good about that.”
www.blaze-audio.com
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THE PELLIGON
LONDON / UK EMEA
A key aspect of the architectural marvel’s makeover, Vibration Production’s installation of cutting-edge lighting, sound, and video systems firmly plants The Pelligon at the forefront of Canary Wharf’s flourishing contemporary culture.
A spectacular glass dome best described as a crystalline cathedral, The Pelligon is an attractive and versatile venue located in the heart of London’s Canary Wharf. Though its presence as a multipurpose space has been prominent within the Wharf for many years, Broadwick Group’s recent acquisition and subsequent redevelopment of the venue ushers in a new, exciting era for The Pelligon.
Its upgraded audio-visual capabilities correspond with Broadwick’s goal of creating a compelling host for a wide variety of events, from wild celebrations to sophisticated dinners.
Formerly East Wintergarden, the venue’s complete transformation called for a rechristening. Now titled in commendation of its creator, architect César Pelli, The Pelligon honours its distinguished history, while reintroducing itself as a modern venue with its seamless blend of art deco style and futuristic flair, complemented by innovative sound and visual design.
Simon Tracey, Broadwick Group CEO, revealed the motivations behind the venue facelift: “Canary Wharf is changing. The area, once mainly corporate, is becoming more residential,” he began. “This means that there is a need for a culture, a scene. We came across the Pelligon, formerly East Winter Gardens, and in its gorgeous high ceiling and glass structure, we saw potential for an iconic venue that could house all manners of occasions, including events for companies who want to hire a high-quality entertainment space.”
Tracey continued: “In upgrading the venue, one of our first steps was to converse with clients who had previously hired out the event space.” Such conversations, alongside an already rich history of venue development, made Broadwick Group aware of the installations needed to upgrade East Winter Gardens.
Vibration Production became involved, tasked with designing and integrating AV systems. Vibration is owned by Broadwick Group,
“AS THE BUILDING IS PRACTICALLY MADE OF WINDOWS, EVERYTHING IS VISIBLE. ALSO, THE HUGE CEILINGS AND OPEN PLAN MEANT LITTLE ROOM TO CONCEAL KIT, SO IT ALL HAD TO BE CAREFULLY INSTALLED TO PRESERVE NEATNESS.”
which Tracey pointed out to be a huge positive: “Because Vibration Production was involved from the very start, they quickly gained a great understanding of the space, and were able to start designing lighting and sound systems early on.”
Niall Spierin, Head of Production Operations at Vibration Production, echoed Tracey’s goals, detailing Vibration’s desire to craft an audio-visual system fit for an ultra-modern, culturally significant venue. “We wanted to revamp this space and allow it to be used to its full potential, with technology unbeatable in quality and versatility,” he commented.
“It was also necessary to pay attention to aesthetics,” Spierin continued.
“As the building is practically made of windows, everything is visible. Also, the huge ceilings and open plan meant little room to conceal kit, so it all had to be carefully installed to preserve neatness.”
Attentive integration began with luminary systems, which had to be powerful enough to impact the venue in the daytime, when the glass cathedral lets in enormous amounts of natural light. Spierin stated:
“We’ve installed a mixture of Robe fixtures, including 16 ESPRITE and six Spiiders on the back truss and as profile illumination for the staging area. We chose moving lighting as the trussing is at a great height, and focusing static light from such elevation would be a nightmare!”
Further specified was 16 Robe LEDBeam 350 to light a mezzanine area, and two PAINTE for gobo effects, allowing creative freedom for clients
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Genelec Smart IP PoE loudspeakers offer optimised internal amplifiers and the simplicity of single cable installation, with audio, power and control all provided by one standard CAT cable.
Now available in ceiling-mounted form factors, the pendant 4436A and in-ceiling 4435A.
who want to put their unique touch on the venue. Spierin said: “We chose Robe fixtures as we wanted to use products we trusted. As this space will be hired for many different uses, we needed kit that would be the best for any application. We really like Robe; we knew its equipment would be bright enough for this project.”
Robe Account Manager, Ashley Lewis, was heavily involved in the project, and added: “It has been a pleasure for Robe and myself to assist Vibration Production with another project, they’re such talented professionals – I look forward to working together again in the future!”
For space lighting, 16 CHAUVET Professional COLORado Panel Q40 were integrated. “These are an excellent punchy fixture,” Spierin commented. “We have a large stock in our warehouse too, so if our opening period makes us realise we want more, we can accommodate this.”
The whole system is controlled by an Avolites Tiger Touch II, which Spierin confirmed further grants the venue versatile illumination.
The lighting truly comes alive at night, when the huge glass dome sparkles on the Wharf’s waterfront. “When it turns dark, we get the best use of our Robe 350s installed on The Pelligon’s interior columns – they wash the ceiling, panning and tilting to cover the whole venue gorgeously,” noted Spierin.
On the lighting integration process, Tracey commented: “One reason Vibration Production’s early involvement made the project run smoothly was that they were able to work alongside the development team who furnished and restructured the building. This meant that Vibration could craft systems that fit the new layout perfectly.”
The tandem workings of the development and integration teams helped the final product become an aesthetic success. For example, Spierin revealed: “The building’s previous flooring was a multicoloured marble floor which when lit with a colourful wash, looked unappealing. In working with the building designers, we were able to pick lighting and furnishing that complemented each other, avoiding possible clashing.”
As The Pelligon promises to house all manners of events, a video system was required. The solution was a 5.5 m wide by 3 m high Absen Polaris 3.9 mm LED wall. “We’ve successfully worked with Absen before for LED systems,” stated Tracey. “As The Pelligon is huge and open, it lends itself
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
AUDIO
12 x L-Acoustics KARA, 4 x L-Acoustics SB18, 5 x L-Acoustics X8, 3 x L-Acoustics A10, 4 x L-Acoustics KARA / KARA II - Bumper for flying or stacking KARA (II)/SB18, 3 x L-Acoustics X8 - Long U-bracket for X8, 3 x KR grill X8 white, 3 x L-Acoustics A10 - Flying frame for vertical, 6 x L-Acoustics LA4X, 2 x Shure AD QUAD CH Rx 470-636 MHz, 6 x Shure AD HH 470-636 MHz Handheld Transmitter with SM58 head, 6 x Shure AD BP 470-636 MHz Bodypack Transmitter
6 x DPA - 6060 CORE Omni Submini Mic, Normal SPL, Black, MicroDot, 6 x DPA - Adapter: Shure, 6 x Shure Lapel Microhone, 4 x GREEN-GO GGO-BPX DIGITAL BELTPACK 4-channel, 4 x GREEN-GO GGO-WBPX DECT WIRELESS BELTPACK 4-channel, 1 x GREEN-GO
GGO-Q4WR QUAD 4-WIRE INTERFACE, 1 x GREEN-GO
GGO-SI2W Compact 2-Wire Interface, 1 x GREEN-GO
GGO-BC6 BATTERY CHARGER 6-way, rackmount, 8 x GREEN-GO GGO-NRGP BATTERY For WBPX wireless beltpack, 5 x GREEN-GO HS200S HEADSET Single ear, 5 x GREEN-GO HS200D HEADSET Dual ear, 1 x Yamaha QL1
VIDEO
33 x Absen Polaris PL3.9 Plus XL V10
1 x Novastar Vx600 LED Display Video Processor
1 x Barco PDS-4K SDI
1 x Elgato Stream Deck XL
LIGHTING
16 x Robe Esprite, 16 x Robe Spyder, 16 x Beam 350
2 x Robe Robin Painte, 16 x CHAUVET Professional COLORado Panel Q40, 1 x Luminode 12, 1 x Avolites Tiger Touch 2
RIGGING
4 x Prolyte X30V Square Truss L300
47 x Prolyte X30V Square Truss L200
15 x Prolyte X30V Square Truss L100
3 x Prolyte X30V Square Truss L050
6 x Prolyte Four way ‘box’ Ts
1 x Total Solution OV30 Square L400
1 x Total Solution OV30 Square L150
26 x EXE Rise 500kg D8+
3 x EXE Drive Multi Link Controller 8 way
10 x Bespoke Round Section Clamps
www.thepelligon.com www.vibrationproduction.com
to a big screen. We chose to rig the LED wall from the ceiling as this adds to the feeling of a large space and increases groundlevel capacity. A Barco PDS-4K SDI as our video switcher adds to the excellent system,” he continued.
As the LED screens are on motors, they can be raised or lowered, increasing the adaptability of the venue. Tracey explained: “If a client wants to hire the space for an intimate party, the screen can come down. But it can quickly be changed for events wherein a large design needs to be displayed above a busy crowd.”
Spierin agreed: “It’s such a versatile piece of kit. As well as being durable, its size can be altered with the easy addition or removal of units.”
During the development of The Pelligon, the team knew the clients would prioritise clarity of sound in their events, with the venue being furnished for musical events, lectures, and other audio-reliant occasions.
Spierin said: “We wanted the best of the best in the sound solution, so that loads of kit did not have to be transported in for each new event. This also meant that equipment versatility was imperative in the specification process.”
Consequently, a PA system was created using L-Acoustics products, to which Tracey said: “From a flexibility and quality point of view, they’re leading the way. This is Broadwick’s third time specifying their products, we are continuously impressed.”
All controlled by a Yamaha QL1, the L-Acoustics solution includes 12 KARA line-arrays, with four SB-18 subs at the top of the array. To provide more range throughout the huge, uniquely shaped venue, these subs are wired to act similarly to another array box. Three A10 assist in covering the mezzanine area, so audio is coherent throughout the space.
To match the sleek venue design and further ensure sound intelligibility, five X8, custom painted white to match other furnishings, were installed. Six LA4X amplified controllers power the expert system.
During the specification process, L-Acoustics’ Sound Vision software was used. The tool is a 3D visual audio designing and mapping software, perfect for finding the best placement and products for a solution. Spierin revealed: “The Pelligon is a complex shape based on its size and ceiling height; Sound Vision was crucial in figuring out how to work the venue.”
Spierin also made sure to highlight the impact of carefully considered cabling. “Because there will be some small setup alterations for each different event, we used tour-grade cabling to guarantee durability,” he began.
“Additionally, even though the trussing and cables are visible, a clean look is still achieved, as the cable looms go up to the roof and we put everything on chain runners so that wires always look nice and tidy while also being functional.”
With the opening period now well underway, initial feedback has been excellent. Tracey commented: “The tech is working incredibly and is also future proofed, as we chose reliable, durable products. We definitely chose the right equipment, as the clients are always happy.”
He concluded: “What’s most pleasing is that people who used the space before the refurbishment are shocked at the huge difference, and high potential and quality of the venue. We have seen, and will continue to see, amazing events housed in The Pelligon.”
Much time and consideration has been put into revitalising The Pelligon. Thanks to Broadwick Group and Vibration Production, who listened to client desires and worked in the AV needs of an advanced, modern venue, the space stuns yet again. The Pelligon lights up Canary Wharf, piloting a new phase of the borough, filled with a vibrant culture. Perhaps this could be the beginning of the Wharf’s reputation as one of London’s leading areas for modern entertainment venues.
THE MILTON ROOMS
MALTON / UK EMEA
A.C Entertainment Technologies supplies a new NEXO sound system to a much-loved community hub in the heart of Yorkshire.
Located 20km north of York, the small town of Malton has a population of around 5000, and they are culturally well served by its multipurpose community hub The Milton Rooms, which recently completed a venuewide renovation.
The makeover included the installation of a state-of-the-art audio system, while accessibility has also been improved across the building. The venue faced financial difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic and received a funding boost to the tune of £500,000 from Ryedale District Council in 2021 in a bid to support its three-year business plan.
This plan included a focus on refurbishment work, in addition to developing the cultural activities on offer and increasing community use of the iconic building.
Dating back to the early 1800s, the venue is run as a not-for-profit organisation by an active team of volunteers and features a 300-seat theatre space with a new NEXO sound system.
A.C. Entertainment Technologies (AC-ET), in collaboration with installers North Star Engineers, were entrusted with designing a new PA system after an independent assessment concluded the venue needed expert advice to overcome its poor acoustics.
AC-ET calculated the best options for the new sound system using NEXO’s NS-1 acoustic prediction software, which enables users to configure their speaker placement in any venue setup, and then predict the optimal sound coverage for the audience.
To deliver the optimal audio for the space, a NEXO GEO M10 line array system with NEXO P10 speakers used as delays, and DAD stage monitors all controlled by an Allen & Heath Avantis console were installed. Numerous NEXO ID speakers were also deployed as front fills and to feed audio into the venue’s side bar and foyer.
Steve Eaton, Senior Audio Sales Executive, AC-ET, commented: “After an early site visit gave me a good idea of what would be needed for the venue, this was later confirmed using NEXO’s NS-1 software.
“Each left and right array includes one MSUB15, four GEO M1012 and one GEO M1025 at the bottom of the array. Four Nexo P10 were used as delays down the room, and numerous Nexo ID24 speakers and IDS210
subs were then used as stage mounted front fills, in the side bar area and foyer, while two Nexo MSUB18 18-inch subs were installed under the stage.
“The venue staff weren’t previously familiar with the Allen & Heath Avantis unit, and so we ran an after-sales training session with them so that they could familiarise themselves with it.”
Oliver Stables, Technical Lead at The Milton Rooms said:
“The new audio setup has been a huge success and has made such a difference to the quality of the sound produced for our audiences.
“Every band and artist who has performed at our venue has commented that the standard of this equipment rates with the big arenas they have performed in across the country.
High praise indeed.”
Completing the installation is a truss grid above the main hall floor using Sixty82 M29, Columbus McKinnon D8+ Lodestar hoists with Tourflex Cabling, OutBoard LV6x lowvoltage motor controller and Broadweigh 4.75t wireless shackles.
Measuring 7m by 10.71m with a 6m span across the middle, the Sixty82 M29 truss features six 500kg D8+ Lodestars were used along with six Tourflex motor looms and a break out spider for the controller.
A single OutBoard LV6x motor controller was supplied along with an RC6 hand controller, which features individual channel up/down switches and integral E-Stop, and in addition, Remote GO and Remote E-Stop switches can be linked across multiple controllers, with 10m of cable.
Oliver Sharpe, Internal Rigging Sales, AC-ET, explained the role of the Broadweigh equipment: “The use of Broadweigh load shackles allow The Milton Rooms to know the precise load on all their rigging points.
“The real-time, valuable data enables them to safely distribute the required weight across the grid and gives
them a peace of mind when hanging above their audience.
As part of the service, we showed the venue staff the Broadweigh’s Log100 viewing and mapping software, along with the Toolkit configuration software.”
With a new truss and sound system, the venue can cater for top quality music, comedy and touring theatre shows.
Ray King, Chairman of Trustees at The Milton Rooms, concluded: “We, the trustees at The Milton Rooms, are most grateful to Ryedale District Council for the funding for our venue to the tune of £500,000.
“These changes have been well received by the community of Ryedale, and beyond, as indicated by strong attendance at our events. We are now able to offer a wider range of events to suit all tastes and the venue is also available for private hire.”
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
1 x NEXO MSUB15 4 x NEXO GEO M1012 1 x NEXO GEO M1025 4 x NEXO P10
2 x NEXO MSUB18
1 x Allen & Heath Avantis
www.ac-et.com
Above: A new truss grid above the main hall floor completed the installation.
ARTEXPLORER
THE MEDITERRANEAN EMEA
A first-of-its-kind museum boat sets sail with the aim of making art and culture accessible to the widest possible audience with mobility and forward-thinking digital technology at its heart.
ARTEXPLORER is the world’s first museum boat and boasts a stateof-the-art audiovisual system thanks to the work of AV-IT systems integrator Akumendo and ArScénique, a solutions and services provider for events and digital systems.
The star attraction of the yacht is the immersive LED tunnel, which utilises LED technology from Leyard Europe, a Modulo Kinetic media server solution from Modulo Pi, a cluster of Genelec smart-IP loudspeakers, while the whole boat features an overarching Crestron control system.
Created by French entrepreneur and philanthropist Frédéric Jousset, the Art Explora Foundation had previously undertaken mobile museum installations on trucks to drive around the roads of France and England.
The foundation’s latest project is the travelling Art Explora Festival and its 46m catamaran, ARTEXPLORER. Designed to provide free access to unique cultural and artistic experiences, the festival will take place onboard the boat, as well as on the docks of the host cities.
From spring 2024 to autumn 2026, the Art Explora Festival and its museum boat plan to visit 15 countries across the Mediterranean Sea.
The visitor experience on board unfolds in three stages, first entering the ARTEXPLORER’s upper deck, where they are equipped with RSF Confident headphones with binaural audio.
For around 10 minutes, visitors experience a sound odyssey from the Mediterranean Sea designed by Ircam, the French institute for musical and acoustic research and coordination.
The tour continues on the aft deck, where a documentary is shown on a 3m by 2m LED wall. Finally, guests enter the heart of the main deck and accesses the immersive LED tunnel gallery. Here, they experience the digital exhibition ‘Présentes’, created from the Louvre and Art Explora brief by Julien Abril, founder of Graphics eMotion, with the overall digital museum project managed by Philippe Rivière, head of digital at Art Explora foundation.
Initiated four years ago, ARTEXPLORER was designed by architects Axel de Beaufort and Guillaume Verdier, and the catamaran and its imposing 55m sails were built at the Perini Navi shipyard in Italy. Akumendo, specialists in IT integration on board yachts, and Arscénique, joined forces to develop a joint response to an unprecedented set of specifications. One of the main challenges of the
Photo by Elisa von Brockdorff
project was to set up an immersive space to host digital exhibitions for around 40 people on the boat’s main deck. The system also had to be able to be dismantled so that ARTEXPLORER could be used as a cruise ship outside festival periods.
Guy Butterati, Co-Founder of Akumendo, explained: “In the specifications for the museum section, the idea was to create a large immersive room inside the main deck, approximately 19m long by 6m wide. The first designs included video projectors, but we quickly realised that it was going to be very complicated.”
Emmanuel Ducros, Chairman of Arscénique, added: “We had very little ceiling height, so even with ultra-short throw models, around 30 video projectors would have been required in a small space, with up to 40 people living the experience causing cast shadows.”
The conversation turned to an LED solution. “The progress and evolution of LED technology made a lot of sense, so we decided to push this technology forward, even though it was more expensive,” said Butterati. “That’s where Leyard came into the play as we knew that they would be capable of doing what was needed, so we got in touch with them and began working with them – they became a true partner on the project.”
Xavier Guillermain, France Zone Manager at Leyard Europe, said: “This has been a truly collaborative process, and everyone involved has always tried to find solutions, considering all aspects of the project and listening to our advice. The structure’s design is amazing and has evolved from its simpler beginnings.”
Leyard’s team was immediately involved in the planning process alongside Akumendo and ArScénique, with the challenge of building the lightest system possible to enable smooth mounting and dismounting of the structure, utilising the efficacy of carbon fibre, magnetic attachments and fibre optic connectors.
“The challenges in terms of structure were huge,” Butterati explained. “Leyard came up with the idea that it must be very lightweight, recommending a carbon fibre system.
We said we need to find a way to mount and dismount the cabinets of this huge surface as easily as possible, with reduced rear access, and they came up with a magnet solution, which is amazing.
“We learned with them all the way and taught them all the constraints of the boat environment. We gave them as much information as possible to understand, for example, the energy transfer during the shockwaves onboard, and they brought their expertise and the confidence they have in their structure.”
Measuring 16m long by 5m wide and 2.3m high, the tunnel is engineered as a rugged, non-permanent installation with no fewer than 512 special Leyard CarbonLight CLI Flex LED modules and 352 CarbonLight CLI LED cabinets, both with a pixel pitch of 1.5mm.
These are housed in an aluminium structure, with the carbon fibre cabinets satisfying the challenging need for rigidity, lightweight and resilience. The supporting structure is installed on silent blocks and the innovative magnet attachments for the cabinets.
The tunnel’s layout is completed with two 2m by 2m LED walls positioned at the entrance and exit of the tunnel.
To power the 50 million pixels of the LED tunnel, Akumendo and Arscénique used Modulo Pi’s Modulo Kinetic media server.
The package consists of a Modulo Kinetic Designer workstation, and three Modulo Kinetic V-Node servers equipped with four 4K outputs and 4TB of storage. The
Above: The Leyard LED tunnel during installation and diagnostic checks.
Below: Two of the boat’s racks for media playback featuring Modulo Pi’s Modulo Kinetic media server.
servers are used to play the 12-minute show in 60 FPS designed for the LED tunnel, as well as the documentary shown on the boat’s aft deck.
Modulo Kinetic also drives eight Genelec 4430A multi-channel speakers distributed throughout the immersive room. One of the V-Node servers is equipped with a Dante virtual sound card to communicate with the networked speakers, thereby reducing the amount of cabling on board the boat.
Modulo Pi’s media server show control functions were also used, as the UI Designer embedded in Modulo Kinetic made it possible to create custom panels to control the launch of the video shows, and send the audio for the show, which is played through the binaural headphones.
In addition, a maintenance panel has been designed to provide feedback from the audiovisual system in real time.
Thanks to the Kinetic Panel companion app, the control panels created in the media server can be accessed from a tablet.
Butterati refers to a specific panel for daily operations: “Technical information such as temperature or electricity consumption are available in the form of a dashboard for the Operations Manager, who can access it from his own iPad,” he said.
The racks containing the Modulo Kinetic servers are positioned on the port and starboard sides of the immersive installation to fit in with the limited space available.
“The system has proven that it’s very open, very versatile, and also very reliable in its operating phase,” said Butterati.
Currently used for media playback and show control, the system could evolve towards more advanced applications using Modulo Kinetic’s interactive features.
“Art Explora is a far-sighted foundation, and because of that we
didn’t want a simple player. With Modulo Kinetic, we know that we are future-proof and that we’ll be able to respond to every possible situation in the future,” confirmed Butterati.
For Butterati, the project was two-fold, as he explained: “As an AV-IT Integrator, Akumendo designed and integrated all AV and home cinema, domotics (A/C, lights, curtains control), telecommunications, video surveillance, guests and crew information, and in addition, alongside our partner ArScénique, we designed and integrated all its ‘museum’ digital systems, LED immersive tunnel and outdoor display.
“We implemented a flexible architecture with a big part of it being an ‘ad-hoc’ element to receive the ‘museum’ elements episodically.
“Onboard, as usual, we installed Crestron systems to distribute audio and video, control lights, and all domotics systems, automation and media distribution in the background, and our User Interfaces Akumendo in the foreground.”
A massive IP network was built based on a redundant dynamic multi-link / multi-trunk fibre optics backbone at 10Gbps, and the boat was wired with pre-disposition Neutrik opticalCON sockets for it to be ready for the ‘museum’ aspect of the installation.
“We configured the virtual media matrix Crestron DM-NVX for flexible video routing and DANTE for audio routing, this provides an adaptative, reconfigurable, and reliable system,” continued Butterati. “DM-NVX encoders and decoders allow for routing video outputs from ModuloPi V-Node, which is installed remotely in the museum main rack, to the LED controllers that feed the two displays aft and forward, the main LED tunnel (via the onboard fibre optics backbone), and the outdoor display content is also routed this way. Using the iPads, Modulo Kinetic Panels provide User Interfaces for show manager and assistants to control
Photo by Elisa von Brockdorff.
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the museum systems and launch show sequences and monitor timecodes. The Crestron system also provides the show manager with a dashboard to monitor room and rack temperatures, power consumption, the complex and long power-up sequence start, and monitoring.
“In the main rack, a Blackmagic Design multi-monitoring and signal processing system allow for source control, onthe-fly re-assignation of outputs (fail-over) and flexibility to adapt content changes or special events.”
When it came to choosing the audio equipment to deliver the sound to the visitors in the LED tunnel, Butterati landed on Genelec’s Smart-IP range.
“Inside the LED tunnel we needed eight speakers to cover spatial audio multi-channel in compliance with the producers wishes,” said Butterati. “We made the choice of Genelec Smart-IP 4430A speakers, both for quality reasons and because they are Dante compatible, offer easy installation and cabling – particularly for this project with just a single Cat6 cable bringing audio and POE.
“Dante routing all over the venue allowed us to configure a Virtual Soundcard in the main rack V-Node media server and route audio over IP with high flexibility.”
The Art Explora Festival immersive show in the LED tunnel, curated by Noëmi Daucé, curator of the Louvre’s Oriental Antiquities department, features content related to the representation of women in the Mediterranean.
More than just a museum tour, this free festival provides an opportunity for visitors to meet the impressive artists behind the work.
ARTEXPLORER sails from port to port around the Mediterranean, providing a cultural, artistic, and thoroughly unique experience, and is set to fascinate its guests while simultaneously drawing attention to contemporary issues.
Right: Eight Genelec 4430A multi-channel speakers distributed throughout the immersive room are driven by the Modulo Kinetic server.
Right: ARTEXPLORER from above (photo by David Atlan).
DIE WELLE –GASOMETER OBERHAUSEN
OBERHAUSEN / GERMANY EMEA
Housed inside a decommissioned gas tank which now serves as an exhibition space, a massive projection structure is the highlight of a recent attraction highlighting the beauty of the oceanic world.
Michael Lübke unless stated
A 40m-tall projection surface fixed to a custom-built truss frame has been erected as the highlight of Planet Ozean, a new exhibition focusing on the beauty of the world’s oceans at Gasometer Oberhausen in the heart of the Ruhr region of western Germany.
Conceived and implemented by Ars Electronica Solutions, Die Welle
(The Wave) allows visitors to experience a photorealistic ocean world featuring gigantic crashing waves, life-sized whales and jellyfish, and huge schools of fish. Visitors are not just spectators; they can immerse themselves in the ocean. This is achieved not only by allowing them to wander under the gauze but also thanks to an audience tracking system, where animations directly respond to their movements.
The projection surface was supplied by AV Stumpfl, from its Flex Contrast Pro range, while SIGMA System Audio-Visuell GmbH was responsible for integrating the AV equipment, overseeing projector positions and housings, cabling, sound, and installation according to Ars Electronica Solutions’ specifications.
geo – Die Luftwerker Robert Meyknecht e.K. planned and constructed the structure, handling the trussing, static calculations, and installation and positioning of both screen surfaces, again according to Ars Electronica Solutions’ spec.
“When we were asked for a new structural idea for the inside of the hall we brainstormed a few ideas, working with the curator Nils Sparwasser. The challenge was to surpass the uniqueness of the major installation from the previous exhibition in both conception and execution. This involved months of planning and deliberation to develop a structure that would meet the requirements of the gasometer, and satisfy the expectations of visitors.” said Patrick Müller, Head of Technical Operations Ars Electronica Solutions.
“The concept of Die Welle was born in a relaxed discussion, and we conceived an L-shaped structure, which is slightly tilted, to offer different projection surfaces for visitors to look at from different viewing points.”
The final result features two structures which work together – an upright projection screen, slightly angled towards the audience’s
Photos:
perspective, and a tightly stretched gauze surface which is deployed almost horizontally above the audience as a false ceiling, so projected images can pass through it and hit the floor, and the people. The thin gauze also allows visitors to look through it and up to the content on the tall screen.
“The big challenge was acquiring the correct materials for the different projection needs and the trussing also required a lot of planning,” said Müller. “Another challenge was to ensure that everything undertaken was done so within budget.”
Müller and his team also came up with the idea to split the 40m by 18m vertical screen into five separate sections, each the right size for the projected video content, because the temperature inside the gasometer fluctuates drastically and a single piece of material stretched to that size could compromise the structure’s integrity should it be affected by extreme changes in temperature.
For the structures, geo – Die Luftwerker worked out the rigging and static calculations for both frames, and utilised Eurotruss HD34 Square Truss rigged to the building’s roof. The larger frame measures 18.5m by 40m with six horizontal traverses, while the smaller frame for the horizontal gauze is set up in an open trapeze shape with a width of 18.5m (where it meets the bottom of the tall frame) spanning out 20m to a width of 22m, with no truss in place at the end where visitors enter to walk under it.
The Project Manager for geo – Die Luftwerker was Felix Dickenberger. “We have enjoyed positive experiences with this type of trussing material for many years, including previous projects inside this building,” said Dickenberger, “For the open trapezoid-shaped frame we needed two corner pieces with an angle greater than 90°, and they had to be specially designed and manufactured.”
The main challenge for Dickenberger was the installation of the screens, rather than the construction of the trussing structures, with cold temperatures causing an issue for spanning the projection materials onto the frame. The team carefully started assembly from the top and worked their way down, spanning the screens as they progressed.
Animated content
When it came to the AV technology for the exhibition, Müller called upon Dusseldorf-based SIGMA System AudioVisuell GmbH to specify the equipment, with Marc Brinar the Project Lead for the technical integration.
“To ensure that the animated content, which has a resolution of 60 million pixels, would also meet this requirement at close range, a high resolution and natural colouration of the projection was essential,” confirmed Brinar. “The Epson EB-L30000U projectors use 3LCD technology, which displays colours with great realism and high contrast ratio, and the 30,000 lumens are perfect for the results we needed – and so seven of these models were bought by the venue, from us, for this project.”
Five projectors throw content to the upright screen, while two are aimed down at the gauze from an elevated position, with two PCs featuring Ars Electronica Solutions’ own media playback systems feeding them the content.
To protect the projectors from the venue’s extreme weather conditions, towers with ventilation, air conditioning and heating systems were constructed to house the projectors and protect them from the changeable atmosphere.
“The gasometer has only a thin outer skin, which makes it necessary to deal with temperature fluctuations during operation,” said Brinar. “Both the influence of the temperature difference and the height of the building,
Photo by Thomas Wolf
“BOTH THE INFLUENCE OF THE TEMPERATURE DIFFERENCE AND THE HEIGHT OF THE BUILDING, AS WELL AS THE SIZE OF THE PRESSURE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BELOW AND ABOVE (THERMAL) MADE THE INSTALLATION OF THE TECHNOLOGY COMPLEX, AND SO THE TOWERS BECAME AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE PROJECT.”
as well as the size of the pressure difference between below and above (thermal) made the installation of the technology complex, and so the towers became an important part of the project.”
Brinar also confirmed the implementation of a Crestron control unit for seamless control over audio, projection, lighting, and climate settings, which ensures a user-friendly experience for managing complex multimedia setups.
“The Planet Ocean exhibition uses the existing sound system of the Gasometer venue, and we serviced the system to make sure everything was working properly,” said Brinar. “The exhibition runs for eight hours a day, six days a week, and because of this an intuitive control system was needed, and after commission we entered into a service agreement with Gasometer Oberhausen to ensure that the audio-visual experience for its visitors is always up and running.”
Support from inception
All of the project’s partners benefited from the expertise of AV Stumpfl, whose Austrian team were on hand to provide assistance and support from the inception of the installation to its completion.
Jan Walter, Global Sales Director, Screens for AV Stumpfl, said: “Flex Contrast PRO is the perfect material to show off the breathtaking images to their best advantage. The projection screen manages to reproduce the full power of the projectors – the improved colour accuracy speaks for itself, and we are delighted to be able to contribute to this
unique experience.” For Patrick Müller, his collaborations with Jan during the early stages of the project proved invaluable. “I had known Jan from a previous role he held in the industry, and the early talks we had were great because we could discuss the project in depth, focussing on projection settings and things like that – those early exchanges of ideas proved very worthwhile,” said Müller. “As the project developed, I was never fully certain of how the projected light would reflect off the screen, but I was absolutely delighted when I saw the content hit the screens for the first time.”
Jeanette Schmitz, Managing Director of Gasometer Oberhausen GmbH and curator of Planet Ozean, explained why the Gasometer is the perfect venue for the visual splendour of Die Welle: “The Oberhausen Gasometer is also known as the ‘cathedral of industrial culture’. The 100m high airspace offers a unique spatial experience and plenty of space for extraordinary installations, which are the visual highlight of every exhibition.”
Photo by Dirk Boettger
GREGORY CHOSSON
CEO AUDIOVISTA / FOUNDER MARCH ON MARS
To me it‘s all about creating a reliable and technically safe work environment for my customers as well as my teams.
Artist Intercom allows me to provide intuitive workflows and to onboard new team members swiftly.“
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Professional and reliable live communications.
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LIDO2
PARIS / FRANCE EMEA
Emblematic Parisian cabaret venue reinvents itself with a dynamic installation of leading AV solutions.
One of the most iconic cabaret and burlesque venues in Paris, Le Lido was the home of the famed dancing troupe, the Bluebell Girls, and had hosted performances from Edith Piaf to Johnny Hallyday, Marlene Dietrich, Shirley MacLaine and Elton John, to name a few.
Bought by the hotel group Accor in 2021, the curtain came down on the final Cabaret performance in July 2022, marking the end of a glittering era that spanned over 75 years.
Since then, Le Lido has undergone a startling transformation to be reborn as a highly original – and hi-tech – venue for international, original language musical theatre, complete with a comprehensive spatial sound system from d&b audiotechnik, performer tracking system from zactrack, and new stage lighting from Elation. Le Lido de Paris is no more – long live Lido2.
The Accor group asked Jean-Luc Choplin, former director of the city’s Châtelet theatre to take over the management of the Lido with a clear brief – to create a new venue capable of producing the very best of musical theatre.
Choplin turned to his former collaborators at the Châtelet – Cyril Auclair and Léonard Françon – to see if the venue would be suitable for this type of production. According to Auclair: “The answer was yes, although given the architectural constraints of the building, we knew it was likely to be complicated.”
The first show in the new Accor-owned venue was – perhaps fittingly – Cabaret. This served as a test run for Auclair and Françon – who had by now formed Unisson Design, and been entrusted by Choplin with overseeing the full technical overhaul of the Lido.
Cabaret was staged in the old Lido before the renovations took place. “We’d already decided on a d&b audiotechnik system having had an excellent experience with both the equipment and the team at d&b France at the Châtelet,” recalled Auclair. “We love the plugand-play aspect of d&b. You plug it in, and it just works – and sounds great. Also, the workflow is really smooth. From the simulations in ArrayCalc to the R1 software interface that manages the amps and the spatialisation, you’re only ever dealing with one file, which makes life much easier when designing and configuring systems.
“For Cabaret, we were about 75% d&b, but we had to use the old system for parts of it that were just too complicated to replace on a temporary basis,” continued Auclair. “Given that we were going to need a lot of loudspeakers to cover all the awkward corners and difficult angles, we started to wonder if d&b Soundscape might not be a good solution – so we tested it on Cabaret. The results were good enough
Photos: Sonny Hopin unless stated
that we decided to implement d&b Soundscape as part of the new audio system after the renovations.
“The room is very panoramic and has a very low ceiling. With an LCR set-up, it would have worked, but it would have been a shame to miss out on the immersive aspect. We were very well supported by the d&b France team who, thanks to the expertise of Mathieu Delquignies and Jérôme Abraham, helped us understand that d&b Soundscape was the right solution for managing a large number of speakers.”
The full refurbishment took nine months. Initially the idea was to create a traditional theatre, but Choplin and the Accor group decided in the end to retain the spirit of the old cabaret with booths, tables and chairs, and to keep the original front thrust stage. The result is a gorgeous venue that recalls all the glamour of yesteryear – but with a thoroughly modern technical solution that elevates the experience into the contemporary era.
“The choice of the front thrust stage is an essential part of what makes Lido2 Paris so special,” said Françon. “The proximity of the actors to the audience creates an intimacy that most other theatres cannot rival, despite Lido2 being nearly a 1,000-seat venue. When you add a sophisticated spatial sound system, complete with sound tracking, to the mix, you’re in another dimension.
“The possibilities for musical theatre in this environment are huge. However, it created some significant challenges for us in terms of audio design, especially when combined with the very low ceiling height and the panoramic aspect of the auditorium requiring sound coverage through 180°, if not 270°.”
It quickly became clear that a point source system was going to be the most effective and least visually intrusive way of covering the room. “We started with V-Series, but opted for a main system of nine Y10Ps in the end because the boxes are smaller and can be mounted horizontally,” said Françon. “We needed to gain as much space as possible as the main PA is literally above the front lip of the stage. This
means you can’t drive them too hard because they are too close to the mics – so to resolve it we put in a delay line of seven Y10Ps a third of the way up the room which preserves the consistency of the sound and guarantees even coverage to the back of the stalls.”
Low end is handled by a cardioid sub array of eight XSLi-SUBs neatly interspersed between the main Y10Ps, with custom mountings to ensure they are as close to the ceiling as possible. Four Yi7Ps per side act as side fills. Elsewhere, the discreet 44S loudspeakers serve as lip fills in specially created niches in the front of the stage, and as underbalcony and balcony delays. The slightly larger E8 models mounted on the walls of the boxes reinforce lateral coverage across the stalls, accompanied by the ultra-compact 4Ss on the side walls below the balconies. Rear surround for the stalls is also handled by E8s.
Moving up to the balcony – which also has a low ceiling – all the audio is delivered via 44Ss, except for the boxes which are covered by a Yi7P. In total, nearly 130 loudspeakers are installed throughout Lido2 Paris. Françon notes that d&b Soundscape actually plays a dual role in this installation: “Quite apart from the spatial sound aspect of d&b Soundscape which really sets this room apart, d&b showed us that the sheer fact of managing so many loudspeakers and configuring the system is actually much easier as long as you use the spatialisation in ‘Full’ mode,” he said. “Previously we would spend time putting loudspeakers on the set and moving delays around with complicated Excel spreadsheets, and then getting frustrated when it didn’t work. With d&b Soundscape and ArrayCalc, all those calculations are done for you – it’s a massive timesaver.
“From an audio point of view, it adds a whole new dimension. Even with their eyes closed, any member of the audience, wherever they are in the room can locate each performer as if they were the source of the sound, and not the loudspeaker system. It’s amazing.”
In terms of system management – operational rather than technical – Lido2 Paris has opted for the new Subscription-Series model from
d&b, a programme that offers a flexible alternative to traditional ownership, with owners able to enhance their sound experience with a d&b system without the burden of a significant upfront investment and with included services that come with the subscription.
Florian Fassenet, Technical Director, Lido2, explained the benefits: “Ultimately this allows us to be much more flexible and to stay on top of our game – we can change or upgrade our equipment as required, and we haven’t had to make a massive capital outlay or lock ourselves into something for twenty years,” he said. “For me, this option is a genuine part of the solution, as it has allowed us to invest in a system that may not have been possible with a traditional finance model.”
Performer Tracking
When it came to choosing a tracking system, Auclair turned to zactrack as it met the criteria that the venue required. “We looked for a tracking system capable of directing sound and light – and we wanted to avoid any conversion boxes, so we needed a native system, and zactrack provides that,” said Auclair. “We have a total of 10 antennae around the stage to manage the constraints of the proscenium and the different walls that divide it, and each actor is equipped with an HF tracking system. Tracking is huge for the venue, because a musical without tracking means significant positioning work during encoding, which must also be updated if the staging changes.”
Data is transferred from zactrack to two d&b DS100 processors which manage the audio spatialisation via En-Snap software. HF, audio, communication with the control room, and recording are
In total, nearly 130 d&b audiotechnik loudspeakers are installed throughout Lido2.
all handled by WaveTool software, which is networked to a Sennheiser Wireless System Management.
The lavalier microphones used by on-stage actors are DPA 6061, each linked to individual Sennheiser Digital 6000 Wireless systems.
For Auclair, the project represents a step into the future, but admits spatial audio might not be the answer for some venue’s needs. “We are still at its frontier, and not everything will be converted to spatial sound because we have to adapt depending on the location,” he said.
“I think that over a period of a few years, we will slowly shift, and for those in our profession, it is a new learning process, a real challenge that must be accepted.
“It’s a privilege to have been involved with such a prestigious project, and we’re proud to have designed such a technologically avantgarde system that will set the standard for other venues to follow,” concluded Auclair. “The sound is powerful and all-encompassing, yet so subtle, the audience just absorbs it as part of the experience.”
Lighting Lido2
Global Technique Concept, led by project manager Eddy Couloigner, oversaw the renovation of the venue’s stage lighting system and was enlisted as the lighting management service provider. Building on a good collaboration with Jean-Luc Choplin on a previous project, Couloigner responded to a call for tenders and won the contract
“With the ceiling being so low, we selected fixtures that were small enough not to bother the audience’s eyeline and that did not make too much ventilation noise to avoid a buzzing interference,” commented
Couloigner. After evaluating several manufacturers, Couloigner demonstrated the capabilities of Elation lighting fixtures, particularly its RGBMA light engines and versatility, which led to their approval by the venue’s designer. “The Elation Fuze range seemed the most suitable, in addition to fitting into our budget,” stated Couloigner, who confirmed that the lighting was supplied through Elation’s French partner, Best Audio & Lighting. Over seven months, the new lighting equipment was meticulously installed to meet the venue’s requirements. The rig consisting of 30 FUZE MAX PROFILE, 30 FUZE PROFILE, 16 FUZE WASH FR and 12 CHORUS LINE 16 fixtures, with a brand-new ETC APEX 10 console set up in the control room, while 20 Ayrton NandoBeam S3 fixtures remain as part of the venue’s inventory having been present before its renovation.
Outside the main theatre space, Alabama Media provided the venue with 220 sq m of Absen NX and AW series LED panels to cover the wall and ceilings of its main entrance, which is controlled by a NovaStar MX40 Pro processor. With its technological renovation, new life has been given to this historic venue on the Parisian scene, and thanks to the perfect blend of historical charm and modern technology, Lido2 is set to build a new legacy in the heart of the city.
Above and top: A selection of Elation fixtures illuminate performances at Lido2. Photos by Julien Benhamou.
6008 CBL528
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YUEN LONG THEATRE
HONG KONG APAC
Performing arts marvel reopens with unique automotive technology, cementing itself as a pioneer with its use of Harlequin Floors’ innovative Liberty Switch solution.
Yuen Long Theatre in Hong Kong is now perhaps one of the most dynamic performance spaces in the world, thanks to an upgrade with proud, strong collaboration at its core.
In partnership to improve the theatre, originally opened in 1999, Harlequin Floors and TAIT joined forces with the clients, Hong Kong’s Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) and Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD), creating a passionate group dedicated to delivering a state-of-the-art automation system. With a switchable sprung ballet floor and a revolving stage, overlooked by 41 motorised flybars, the resulting performance area is a genuine showstopper. Steven Snow, VP of Operations, TAIT Asia, explained: “The theatre was built around 25 years ago, meaning Yuen Long needed to undergo a massive refurbishment, bringing its equipment up to technical standards required by today’s industry.”
Being the only bidder who could devise a way to install a densely packed flybar winch array and still enable maintenance and regular rope inspections for the space, TAIT was picked to lead the integration of high-quality technology into Yuen Long.
On TAIT’s brief, Sam Woodward, Global Senior Technical Communications Manager, TAIT, explained: “The venue needed a new and improved flying system that enabled a broader range of performances to be presented, alongside quicker changeovers between shows. We stepped in to provide above-and-below-stage machinery with upgraded controls to enable a wonderfully diverse variety of performances at this Hong Kong theatre.”
Arguably the most notable aspect of the installation was its pioneering upgrades; this theatre is the world’s first arts space to have a stage wagon and a revolve with a Harlequin Liberty Switch.
Harlequin Liberty Switch is a revolutionary, multi-use flooring system designed for venues that regularly put on both vibrant dance and theatrical performances. The switchable floor is achieved by using moving carriages which engage with stop blocks on the underside of Harlequin Liberty panels to create a rigid floor and disengage to create a sprung floor. Easily interchangeable flooring is a game-changing feature for spaces that provide a range of entertainment styles.
Craig Thomson, Contracts Director at Harlequin Floors, revealed: “The initial concept for the Liberty Switch was born during the COVID-19
Above, right: The views from inside and outside of the elegant theatre.
Below: A TAIT-Navigator powered epiQ console, controlling Yuen Long Theatre’s stage.
pandemic, and since then, a great amount of time has been spent perfecting the design.”
Further explaining the abilities of the Harlequin system, Woodward said: “The revolve unlocks new artistic options for scene switches or quick changes between acts and the switchable floor surface makes swapping between plays, operas, and ballet performances much quicker. It’s the epitome of versatility! The upgraded power flying line set and point hoist systems offer modern-day safety features, high reliability, and ease of use – all under one operating platform.”
Harlequin Liberty Switch is more sustainable than the traditional alternative of using a portable sprung floor or ballet wagon. Having one multi-purpose floor instead of two separate floors uses fewer resources. The floor does not need to be stored, moved, installed or uninstalled for each performance, reducing the manpower required and energy consumed.
Teaming up with Harlequin Floors for this project was a clear decision for TAIT, with the two companies having a long history of global venue collaboration together. Harlequin Asia and TAIT Asia began discussions at a Senior Management level, starting communication early on, again proving the prioritisation of partnership within this installation. Additionally integrated by TAIT, orchestra lifts, a motorised proscenium, house curtain control, and reconfigurable point hoists complete the package for the Hong Kong hub for art.
Controls include two TAIT Navigator-powered epiQ consoles, which Woodward revealed “are used in many leading theatres and opera houses around the world,” enabling multi-operator shows, plus motion control cabinets and a SIL3 safety system with all the features required for performer flying. System training and support were supplied by TAIT’s local team on the ground.
Woodward continued: “The epiQ console is the ergonomic control surface for our iQ operating system, which delivers the power of the TAIT Navigator automation platform in an easy-to-use console. It enables control of all automation, both above-stage, below-stage, and at Yuen Long on the stage level itself whilst also providing the safety interface and operator feedback.”
This installation was built on effective collaboration and attention to detail from all. The specific set of space needs, including the challenges of having a revolve with a diameter of 11 m and the limited space available for the total height of the system, meant that a strong team was unnegotiable in designing a functional solution.
Confirming this, Kevin Taylor, CEO, TAIT Asia, said: “Our main struggle was working around the single small room that we had to fit all machinery into. Thanks to our expertise, however, a sophisticated design was produced, wherein all motors could live happily and be serviceable, even in the snug space.”
“Of course, there are always challenges in large installations,” added
Melody Wong, Control Engineer, TAIT. “Because we had a strong team, we were able to tackle any issues with ease.”
The result of this carefully curated, unique installation is an exceptionally diverse performance space, convenient for a wide range of entertainers to take to the stage. The bespoke solution, containing both TAIT and Harlequin Floors products, has granted Yuen Long Theatre a new life, bringing much-needed automation to a culturally significant venue.
Though the innovative kit is unquestionably to thank for Yuen Long’s recent improvement in functionality, the unity and shared desire for theatrical elegance between TAIT, Harlequin Floors, and LCSD/EMSD made the integration a huge success.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
STAGE CONTROL
2 x TAIT-powered epiQ console
Harlequin Liberty Switch flooring system
uk.harlequinfloors.com www.taittowers.com
Above, below: Yuen Long’s new, sophisticated, automated stage, fit for any manner of performance.
ILLUMINARIUM
MACAU APAC
Right: The Wynn Resort Illuminarium is the first of the franchise to utilise a pre-existing space, rather than be purpose built.
Having built locations in Major cities across the United States and Canada, the first international Illuminarium recently opened its doors in Macau at the Wynn Palace Cotai, and was completed with a very short runway from concept to reality.
In addition to being home to exclusive shopping and ultra-fine dining, the luxury five-star hotel and resort now features Illuminarium, which engages guests of all ages through its cutting-edge visual, audio, and haptic technologies. Conceptualised a year prior to opening, the Macau venue differs from the existing franchises in Las Vegas, Atlanta, Toronto and most-recently Chicago, as they had all been created in purpose-built spaces, whereas The Wynn Resort location utilises a pre-existing space.
The new experience builds on the Macau SAR Government’s diversified development strategy, a longterm plan to enrich the visitor experience through the development of non-gaming experiences.
“We were approached by the CEO of Wynn Resorts, and he really wanted to bring the finest immersive entertainment experience possible to Wynn Palace, which is their flagship property in Macau,” explained Alan Greenberg, CEO, Illuminarium Experiences.
“We had a whole team, including Christie, Rockwell Group, Electrosonic, HOLOPLOT, and Legends project management, come to Macau to look at the space. From there we developed a technology fit and then we were off and running on construction.”
A large part of the initial planning involved the selection of its immersive technology.
“Wynn was looking for the best possible technology solution,” said Greenberg. In working closely with Christie’s Joe Conover and solutions architects, Illuminarium and Wynn Palace selected 29 Christie Griffyn 4K50-RGB pure laser projectors for the venue.
The Griffyn 4K50-RGB is Christie’s smallest and lightest 50,000 lumen laser projector, and its pure laser illumination technology enables it to deliver richer,
Immersive destination opens in a pre-existing space within the Wynn Palace Cotai, utilising Christie projection and HOLOPLOT immersive audio.
more highly saturated colours than laser phosphor projectors for exceptional experiences in large-venue applications.
“We had a very defined space that we had to deal with, and we are inside a major resort,” said Greenberg. “It provides a very expansive entertainment experience for guests at the Wynn Palace.”
Since opening, Illuminarium has been dazzling visitors with its initial opening show, ‘SPACE: A Journey to the Moon and Beyond’ and recently ‘WILD: An Immersive Safari Experience’, an interactive and multi-sensory experience that takes guests to the wild savanna. To ensure that the experience remains spectacular, Christie Professional Services provides 24/7 service and support for the complete AV system in Illuminarium.
Professional Services includes strategic locations worldwide and a comprehensive network of customer service engineers, project managers, and training and service technicians to rapidly dispatch the expertise, parts, and replacements required.
“Illuminarium at Wynn Palace is nothing short of spectacular,” said Joe Conover, Director, Live Events/Immersive Experiences, Christie.
“It’s a true testament to the vision of Wynn Palace and Illuminarium to deliver a unique experience for guests and visitors to the resort. We’re grateful to have been given this opportunity to work with a talented group of people on this world-class project.”
When it came to the audio solution, a HOLOPLOT system was installed, and any issues posed by the layout of the pre-existing space were mitigated, with the company’s X1 Matrix Array able to blend seamlessly into the background above the projection area.
“The X1 system in the main room consists of eight arrays,” stated Jack Human, Senior Applications Engineer at HOLOPLOT. “Two 2 by 3 mixed arrays are flanked by four 2 by 1 MD96 arrays, fixed on the short sides of the room, with two overhead modules providing additional localisation. For this design, we’ve relied on our 3D sound control capability toolkit, deploying Virtual Sources that are reflected off the walls to create a dynamic, immersive feel that complements
the visuals, delivering the same enveloping, realistic, and versatile experience that Illuminarium is known for.
“In addition, ’bundled’ waves are reflected from the wall as if there is a loudspeaker positioned there, allowing localised sound without an array being present in that position.
“The audio installation complements the state-of-the-art visual projections from Christie by facilitating an uninterrupted, 360° projection surface so visitors can feel completely immersed in the content, visually and sonically,” continued Human. “Together, the technology applied to the storytelling engages the audience in completely new ways, placing them inside the narrative without any additional body-worn equipment.”
Disguise VX 4+ and RX II machines have been engineerd to power the photorealistic real-time graphics, while Electrosonic helped with both technology consulting and engineering on the project, primarily studying the projection mapping, and were responsible for the AV engineering in the space.
“Illuminarium is an experience like no other, taking guests from Macau to outer space through multi-sensory content experiences powered by immersive technology,” said Jackson Benedict, Account Executive at Electrosonic. “From sight to smell, Illuminarium engages all five senses and creates out of this world environments through 3D immersive audio, haptics, lidar and 4K projection.”
Greenberg concluded: “Illuminarium at Wynn Palace combines a highquality environment with AV technology. It involved quick timelines, and new content – it was a big opportunity for Illuminarium and our technology partners. We’re very proud to have been chosen by Wynn Resorts to bring Illuminarium to Macau.”
Taking place over three days from 7 to 9 May, Saudi Light & Sound (SLS) Expo returned to Riyadh for its third year, hosted for the first time at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center (RFECC). The change in venue from the previous site at Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre (RICEC) has seen the tradeshow grow considerably for 2024, not just in terms of footprint, but also in terms of exhibitor and visitor numbers. Between SLS Expo, which filled Hall 4 of the RFECC, and the larger Saudi Entertainment & Amusement (SEA) Expo that occupied Halls 2 and 3, the event welcomed more than 350 exhibitors and 10,000 visitors over the three days.
Despite being only three years old, SLS Expo has quickly gained a foothold as one of the industry’s most important tradeshows in the region, with the event providing a valuable opportunity for local and international exhibitors and visitors to connect and explore the emerging trends and technology solutions that are powering some of the biggest projects in the Kingdom.
Also returning for 2024 was the SLS Summit, which covered a variety of topics, from ‘Unveiling the Next Wave of Festival Wonders’ to ‘Pro Lighting’s Impact on Theatres and Special Events’.
SLS Expo will return to RFECC in 2025, taking place in the slightly later slot of 20 to 22 May. www.saudilightandsoundexpo.com
PALM EXPO
MUMBAI, INDIA / 30 MAY – 01 JUNE, 2024 APAC
This year’s PALM Expo was the busiest in its history with over 25,000 visitors attending across three days at Bombay Exhibition Centre, as the event celebrated its 22nd anniversary.
Spanning over 30,000 sq m across four halls, a live arena zone and two large demo rooms, the expo once again played a starring role in helping shape the industry in the subcontinent.
PALM Expo Founding Director Anil Chopra is confident the success of this year’s event will lead to big things for the country as a manufacturing hub.
“There is going to be a lot of change in the pro audio business in India from this year onwards,” said Chopra. “India will shift from just being an importing and consumption country to a manufacturing country, and PALM will become a platform for this shift, driven by technological advancements, abundant resources, and cost-effective products. “Numerous Indian brands now enjoy a global presence, and PALM has established itself as a premier global destination for both homegrown and international brands to source, network, and collaborate.”
Occupying a larger floor space than previous editions and more exhibitors, the show was significant in having more domestic companies showcasing established products and brands. The Harman Live Arena provided attendees an opportunity to experience its latest sound and light equipment through a holistic live demo with musical performances from popular and budding independent music artists.
“The tremendous growth of the pro audio industry over the past decade, particularly in the post-COVID era, is a testament to the resilience and dynamism of our sector. The future looks incredibly bright as we continue to venture deeper into the country, bringing in more business and fostering valuable connections on the expo floor,” concluded Ramesh Chetwani, Project Director for PALM Expo.
It was great to see a thriving expo, with busy stands, vibrant conversation, expert product demonstrations and engaging conferences featuring industry experts – both local and international – which served to highlight the importance of the subcontinental market.
1 Sudesh Umesh Kotian and Ronald S. D’Souza of Leksa Lighting
2 Fabian Pointinger of AV Stumpfl with Davinder and Pratik Wadhwa of Modern Stage Services
3 Mayank Gaurav and Devasis Barkataki of Alphatec
4 Deepack Bharadwaj, Pankaj Singh, Rachel Raynold and Bhushan Karandikarm of Electro-Voice
5 Elena Massague of Amate Audio and Akhilesh Prajapati of Eminent AV
6 Pooran Rawat of Delhi Light & Music Centre
7 Varun Singh and Vijay Sharma of Optoma
8 Prathmesh, Mahesh, Abdul and Rasesh of IES 9 Dhruv Behere of Ansata 10 Alex Bryan of Fenix Stages and Vinit Poojary of Stagemix Technologies
11 Fabio Prada and Carlo Ughelini of Area Four Industries alongside Ashish Mehta, Jay Mathuria and colleagues on the Star Dimensions stand
12 Lucky Devjani, Jagdish Devjani and Rajesh Prajapati of Proline
13 Prashant Govindan, David McKinney and Jeremiah Joseph Vijaiyasheghar of Generation AV
14 Shaurya Gupta, Manisha Sharma and Raghav Huria of Hi Tech Audio & Image
15 Ness Mandot of Vardhaman Megatech
16 Koy Neminathan of Elation and Clinton Mascarenhas of Vardhaman Megatech
17 Ranjeet Singh and Harish Singh of Decibel Pro Systems alongside Neil McDougall and Andy Farrow of Celestion
18 Vikram Yadav of Pink Noise Professionals
19 Nitesh Narayan of StageMix Technologies
20 Vijay Thaygarajoo of Ayrton
INFOCOMM
AMERICAS
LAS VEGAS, USA / 12 – 14 JUNE, 2024
Over 800 exhibitors showcased the latest innovations in Pro AV and more across the West and Central halls at the Las Vegas Convention Centre as InfoComm returned to the city which features some of the most spectacular installations in the world. This year’s show welcomed 30,271 verified attendees from 125 countries, which is a post-pandemic record, while international attendance made up 23% of the total. In addition, 71% of non-exhibitor attendees were from the pro AV channel and 29% were end users. “There are so many layers to InfoComm, which allows each participant to select a unique path. Professional development, technology demonstrations, networking, and experiential AV at sites around Las Vegas – it was all here in one place for a week,” said David Labuskes, CTS, CAE, RCDD, CEO of AVIXA. “InfoComm is a high-energy, busy week for thousands of people that sparks innovations, creates connections,
and makes lasting memories.” Major announcements were made at the show, including one from d&b audiotechnik and L-Acoustics as they launched Milan Manager, an innovative software platform designed to simplify the configuration, management, and monitoring of Milan-AVB networks. The neutral and free-to-use solution is available for download, and visitors to both manufacturer’s stands could try setting up networks using Milan Manager, as they underscored their unwavering commitment to promoting broader acceptance of MilanAVB. Adamson Systems Engineering announced a major update for its FletcherMachine Spatial Audio Rendering Engine at the show, while the new CM-Series from Cadac Consoles made its USA debut with a demonstration of its new CM-J50 mixing consoles featuring the latest version of the CM-J intuitive software. It was a busy show for ElectroVoice as it launched its next-generation EVID ceiling speakers, which feature a complete refresh of the EVID C series, and promoted the new LRC (Line Radiator Column) series of passive column loudspeaker models. ADJ and its sister company Avante Audio showcased a diverse collection of audio, visual and lighting products suitable for a wide variety of integration and temporary event applications, including the new Hydro Hybrid, which features huge output and the versatility of functioning interchangeably as a beam, spot, or wash luminaire. Genelec exhibited at InfoComm for the first time as it showcased its full range of Smart IP loudspeaker solutions, including the newly
announced 3440A Smart IP PoE subwoofer. Meyer Sound unveiled the ULTRA-X80, a versatile point source loudspeaker that draws on both the acoustic lineage of the ULTRA family and technology innovations behind the PANTHER large-format linear line array loudspeaker to provide impressive precision, power, and clarity in a compact, simpleto-deploy package. Audio-Technica announced a new Q-SYS-certified plugin for its Engineered Sound Wireless (ES Wireless) system, which is utilised for voice applications in meeting rooms, presentation halls, classrooms, and other installed audio-conferencing environments. ACT Entertainment presented PK Sound’s new Robotic Line Source System at the show, which is comprised of the T8 robotic line source element and T18 intelligent subwoofer, and is the industry’s first loudspeaker solution to offer robotic control. Sennheiser highlighted its usability across a wide array of applications, as it gave integrators, consultants, and end-users the opportunity explore the full potential of its products when paired with solutions produced by its official global partners and alliances. The company collaborated with 20 manufacturers within its partner network, including Airtame, Crestron, Datavideo, Lightware, Lumens, Q-SYS, Xilica, and more, to deliver an in-show campaign that highlights the benefits of their combined solutions. Theory Professional debuted its first landscape loudspeaker, demoing the ic6Bollard: 6.5-inch full-range landscape loudspeaker, and iws12-Bollard: 12-inch landscape subwoofer. “Theory is disrupting the status quo with
a small stable of highly capable and flexible audio products, and the ic6 and iws12 are perfect examples of that,” said Paul Hales, CEO, Theory Professional. “Those two loudspeakers can be used for in-ceiling, pendant, high-moisture, in-wall, surface-mount, and now landscape installations, all while providing premium levels of audio performance and design.” The HOLOPLOT stand highlighted its revolutionary Matrix Array products, including the new compact and speech-focussed X2 product line – which made its US public debut - with ad hoc demos taking place showcasing the product’s flexibility, including multi-zone content and focused sound spots. elektraLite has replaced its longstanding eyeBall product with a powerful new model known as the Ocular, which made its official debut at the show, while Peerless-AV showcased its newly updated SEAMLESS Kitted Universal dvLED Mounting System (DSLEDUNV) on its stand. K-array launched the latest addition to its growing suite of software products – K-CLOUD, which allows for remote control, monitoring and management of K-array’s Kommander amplifiers from anywhere in the world. HARMAN announced the launch of its JBL Professional Pro SoundBar PSB-2, a product that expands its PSB soundbar lineup with the addition of HDMI and Bluetooth digital source inputs. Ashly Audio celebrated its 50th anniversary at InfoComm 2024 and launched two new products—the AQM408 digital matrix processor and the EcoTour line of power amplifiers. BASSBOSS exhibited at InfoComm for the first time, and attendees of its ‘Demo-litions’ got a firsthand experience of the newly developed ControlBASS software. As
1 Jesse Foster and Michael Jordan of MultiDyne
2 Solveig Busler of Schnick Schnack Systems
3 Jeremy Allyn Smith of LEA Professional
4 Sean Matthews of Visix
5 Christie showcase a one-of-a-kind MicroTiles LED-wrapped piano on its stand
6 Joe Andrulis of Biamp
7 Pieter van Hoogdalem of Adamson with Cameron Crawford of MONDO-DR
8 Erin Phillips and Paul Hales of Theory Professional
9 Martijn van der Woude of Philips
Christie celebrated its 95th anniversary, visitors to its stand could experience an immersive, interactive room, a piano wrapped in its MicroTiles® LED, and see some of the technology that powers some of Las Vegas’ best experiences. Powersoft showcased its new Unica maritime certification kit, its Verso cloud gateway, MyUniverso cloud platform, and new low-power Unica models, as staff demonstrated the concept of Unica as a platform, showcasing the latest updates and innovations that makes it the next-generation amplifier platform. Blaze Audio unveiled its new Ci Series by Blaze Audio, showing and demoing the products for the first time in public, announced an extension to its PowerZone amplifiers to include an 8-channel series, and have added end-user control to all its amplifiers via the DSP. Biamp introduced the CCA80 constant coverage aisle loudspeaker, an asymmetric, full-range, 3-way horn device that’s ideal for paging and background music in long, narrow, acoustically challenging spaces. Navori Labs introduced its new StiX 3800, an ultra-compact, AI-powered device that transforms digital signage into smart, interactive experiences, and offers advanced analytics allowing businesses to boost viewer interactions and refine communication strategies through real-time audience metrics and actionable insights. Shure highlighted a recent upgrade to its WL Series with the launch of the new WL18xm pro low-profile lavalier condenser mic at the show. Next year’s InfoComm show takes place at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, from June 11 - 13.
1 David Chesal of InnerCircle Distribution and George Masek of Claypaky
2 Kreshan Amin and Shahil Amin of Hylite LED
3 Alex Lane, Nick Williams and Peter Peck of Wharfedale Pro
4 Jamie Gomez of Martin Audio
5 Members of the Absen team on its stand
6 Joe Commare of LAWO
7 Sandra and Mats Otterdahl of Oak Amplifiers
8 Todd Staszko of MONDO-DR alongside Martin Hildred of Linea Research
9 Michal Poplawski of Renkus-Heinz
AVI-SPL WELCOMES CUSTOMERS AND COLLEAGUES TO VIBE DUBAI EVENT
Above: John Murphy, COO; Phil Marlowe, Managing Director Middle East; Jeff Farber, SVP & GM International; and John Zettle, CEO.
Below: Crestron was among the 22 technology partners that took part in the event, unveiling its new 1 Beyond intelligent video solution.
Global AV technology provider AVISPL recently welcomed more than 100 attendees and 22 technology partners to its Dubai office for the company’s annual VIBE Dubai event.
Held on 1 May, the event showcased the latest advancements in unified communications and collaboration (UCC) technology, offering attendees an immersive experience that explored nextgeneration technologies that enhance the human experience of work. Attendees explored the latest tech and engaged in hands-on demos while networking with technology partners and peers.
Two exhibiting vendors leveraged the event timing and audience to release new products to market. Epson showcased its new, EB-PQ2220B and EB-PQ2020B ultrabright 4K laser projectors in a dramatic immersive space, while Creston unveiled its new 1 Beyond intelligent video solution highlighting the seamless deployment and monitoring capabilities of new intelligent cameras for hybrid meeting rooms. Industry experts led informative sessions discussing best practices for leveraging AV, UCC, and experience technology to drive business success. Additionally, keynote speakers shared valuable insights about how AI can accelerate digital transformation and improve workforce productivity and user experience.
“As organisations continue to embrace remote and hybrid work models, VIBE Dubai plays a vital role in showing our clients how they can shape the future of collaboration and empower their businesses to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape,” stated Phil Marlowe, Managing Director at AVI-SPL Middle East. The event also saw the announcement of a new integration partnership between AVI-SPL and d&b audiotechnik in move that Marlowe described as “a significant milestone” for the company. “This collaboration signifies not only a union of cutting-edge technologies but also a shared vision for elevating AV experiences to unprecedented heights,” he said.
“With d&b’s renowned expertise and our dedication to impeccable integration and service, we’re poised to revolutionise the industry landscape, offering our clients nothing short of audio perfection.”
d&b Middle East Vice President Brad Maiden added: “Partnering with AVI-SPL Middle East is an amazing opportunity to work with and contribute to a company of real innovators who continually push the boundaries of technology in our industry. In addition to their innovation, AVI-SPL are known for their attention to detail and high quality, which are qualities that d&b audiotechnik also subscribe to.” www.avispl.ae
HARMAN PROFESSIONAL SOLUTIONS
LONGEVITY DEFINES AND MOTIVATES HARMAN. THE LONGEVITY OF ITS PRODUCTS, LONGEVITY IN ITS MARKET RELEVANCE, AND MORE BROADLY, LONGEVITY OF THE HEALTH OF OUR ENVIRONMENT, ARE THREE FACTORS THAT THE BRAND CONSISTENTLY PROMISES TO CARE ABOUT. IN AN ERA WHERE SUSTAINABILITY IS NOT JUST A CHOICE BUT A NECESSITY, HARMAN CONTINUES TO STAND OUT FOR ITS THOUGHTFUL, RESPONSIBLE PRACTICES.
Below: HARMAN’s new Hungarian factory.
“Sustainability is a core pillar of our corporate strategy that has been deeply embedded in our infrastructure and operations,” explained Katy Templeman-Holmes, Senior Director of Product Strategy and Sustainability, HARMAN Professional Solutions.
“An example of this commitment is underscored by the opening of our new factory in Pécs, Hungary.”
The recently developed factory accommodates growth in production for its Martin Lighting brand, ensuring the company can continue to provide only the highest quality of lighting fixtures for the entertainment and architectural luminary industries, alongside certain loudspeaker products.
HARMAN retrofitted the over 107,000 sq ft manufacturing facility to enable the heating and cooling of the space with geothermal energy through a water-to-water heat pump. Furthermore, work is underway to guarantee that electricity for the entire facility will be sourced by onsite solar PV panels.
The factory’s energy sourcing is not the only environmentally caring practice that HARMAN partakes in, however. Templeman-Holmes confirmed: “Our day-to-day business is conducted through the lens of ensuring our sustainability initiatives are genuine and integral, not just standalone efforts.”
The activities to lower the manufacturing environmental impact in Pécs are guided by HARMAN’s wider target to be completely carbon neutral by 2040.
Inside the Hungarian facility, allegiance to brilliance is clear. Identical to the wider HARMAN brand, Martin Lighting refuses to promote products that are anything less than perfect.
Ben Payne, Sales Director, EMEA HARMAN, described the thousands of hours of testing that goes into crafting each Martin product, stating: “After extensive market research and discussion, the units are put through rigorous trials to make certain that the results are consistent with what the product promises, as we want to have complete trust between customer and brand.”
Right: Each product made in the Pécs facility undergoes rigorous quality testing.
“OUR DAY-TO-DAY BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED THROUGH THE LENS OF ENSURING OUR SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES ARE GENUINE AND INTEGRAL, NOT JUST STANDALONE EFFORTS.”
“Life span is key for us, so climate chamber testing, even in uncommon environments, is crucial in creating a Martin fixture,” he continued. “The products are exposed to high and low temperatures, dry and wet atmospheres, dust, smoke, vibration tests that shake the product, high drops, and more – we make sure our units are prepared for even the worst-case scenario.”
Such examination is not only undertaken at the end of product development but also throughout: “It’s constant testing and checking to make sure our fixtures are perfect,” added Payne.
“Furthermore, a keystone of Martin is that we aren’t an organisation that brings out a new product or endless series every day. We believe in focusing on long-term investment, high-quality pieces. Our customers expect longevity both in use and in the market. We also have a policy where we will supply parts to a product for five years after it has been discontinued, so our equipment has an even longer lifespan,” revealed Payne.
Just one of the excellent, thoughtful products manufactured in Martin’s Pécs factory is the Martin MAC Viper XIP, a highly versatile piece, in that it offers a wide range of year-round outdoor applications whilst also being capable of producing exceptionally low-noise levels for indoor use. The factory ensures that the fixture maintains its high quality and adaptability through its movement and burning tests, where each finished unit’s
Martin fixture testing inside the Pécs, Hungary factory.
lumination and rotation features are heavily used for several uninterrupted hours before it is put to market, demonstrating the company’s commitment to reliability. Similar to the Pécs factory’s inherent sustainability, HARMAN Mexico and HARMAN India’s manufacturing plants, in Queretaro and Pune respectively, have taken steps to help reduce emissions across manufacturing operations by installing solar panels in both facilities. In Queretaro, this initiative propelled renewable energy to cover 9% of the site’s overall electricity consumption, leading to a brilliant annual reduction of 960 tonnes CO2 in greenhouse gas emissions.
It is explicit that HARMAN’s trustworthiness goes beyond just building dependable products. HARMAN cares about the environmental impact of its fixtures because no matter how excellent a product is, a robust customerbrand relationship hinges on the company’s ability to positively impact the broader community through considerate operation.
The Aura Studio 4, a speaker from HARMAN’s Harman Kardon brand, is one example of the company’s merging of premium function with sustainable design to help protect our planet.
During the development process, the design team looked to nature for inspiration; their appreciation of its innate power inspired them to create Aura Studio 4. The Aura Studio 4 is elegantly crafted in part with recycled materials, blending a unique modern design with superior sound quality and a multi-sensorial experience.
The first in the range to be made in part with recycled materials, the speaker grille fabric is woven from 100% recycled polyester yarn, all aluminium is 100% recycled, and the speaker housing is crafted from 85% postconsumer recycled plastic. It is also packaged in FSCcertified paper that has been printed with soy ink. Furthermore, wherever possible, HARMAN product development and packaging practices now use this soy ink printing and avoid the use of virgin plastic, whenever possible. The brand has also implemented measures that reduce power consumption and heat generation during the packaging process.
“Our audio, video and lighting customers are increasingly looking towards the future in delivering sustainable products and solutions to their end customers, and one of our goals is to help them meet those needs,” said Templeman-Holmes, emphasising HARMAN’s devotion to guaranteeing complete client satisfaction.
“By committing to reducing our carbon footprint, we are aligning with these customer demands and aspiring to provide them with products and practices necessary to excel in a greener economy.”
“While our sustainability efforts are ongoing, they set a foundation for future environmentally responsible integrations and uses.
“Our commitment supports the global effort of sustainability and has the potential to enhance their business prospects by helping them meet evolving market expectations and customer needs,” she concluded.
HARMAN exemplifies a brand deeply rooted in caring for both its users and the planet. While always producing innovative, first-class products, HARMAN continues to integrate sustainable practices into its operations.
The brand sets a benchmark for responsible business practices in the audio-visual industry, inspiring others to follow suit and fostering a greener, more sustainable future for all.
www.harman.com
Top: An example of HARMAN’s greener packaging.
Bottom: Henrik Kristensen Product Manager, Stage Lighting, HARMAN, displaying the many pieces that make up a Martin MAC Viper XIP.
GIVE THE AUDIENCE WHAT THEY DESERVE
Brad Berridge, US Market Development Manager, Focusrite Group
From the very first sound system deployment in 1915 and countless others since, we sound people have made a compromise. Ideally, we’d like to put a loudspeaker in front of the person speaking. In practice we obviously could not as this would ‘ruin’ the visual picture and detract from the speaker’s physical presence.
Since the idea of an amplified speaker helmet for everyone never caught on; and since by nature all sound people are good, only wanting the best for every production and event, the loudspeakers were moved to the sides of the stage. With that compromise made, we’ve been looking for ways to overcome it ever since.
We’ve trotted along for 100 years coming up with solutions to fix what we have termed ‘stereo’ or ‘multiple mono’. While a great time can be had with a well-tuned system and your favorite band or presenter, stereo, for the majority of the audience, can not happen.
A stereo experience is defined by the physical nature of the sound delivery system. Sound is sourced from two speaker systems with the audience usually within the field of these speakers. We are all familiar with the ‘sweet spot’, or that central location at which the two signals converge to give you a balanced image from both channels. This is typically a small percentage of the total coverage area – and we usually put our FOH mix position there, and do not let the audience anywhere near our gear. So, very few of the audience is getting a stereo
experience. No matter where they are in the venue, sound will arrive from one of the speaker channels with greater intensity or, significantly, earlier or later in time.
Multichannel-mixes (or multiple mono) can be achieved by spreading out more than just the usual two stereo speakers, so that different parts of the mix come from each speaker.
The attempt is to cover everyone using all the speakers with a ‘better stereo’ mix. However, because coverage from all these channels will vary, and more importantly, arrival times will be substantially different, actually achieving this effectively can be challenging.
Stereo is a myth. Mono is a tragedy
From the first word the presenter utters to the downbeat of the band, the audience’s brains have to do some work to fix our system compromise. The brain knows the sound is coming from the left and right speakers in a ‘stereo’ configuration. It sources them by both level and time differences in arrival at our ears.
This is how we evolved to know where sounds are coming from. When something is on our left, it arrives in our left ear first, travels around our heads, then into our right ear. The brain knows its location by the time and level differences of arrival in each ear (Haas Effect). In a concert setting, the audience can plainly see the musician singing down centre
Hungary’s Szeged Sabadteri opera and music festival benefitted from vocal localisation and natural immersive sound provided by TiMax SoundHub and TiMax TrackerD4.
stage but the sound arrives from whichever speaker cluster they are closest to. The brain says: ‘This is not OK – our eyes tell us what we are supposed to be hearing, but our ears tell us different’.
Of course we could give the audience headphones to create a truly stereo experience, but this is impractical on many fronts – as well as isolating –so let’s dismiss this as something to strive for.
Some of the best musical experiences I’ve had have come at small jazz clubs. There is no reinforcement – not a microphone in sight. A trio or quarter of musicians on a small stage, no more than twenty to thirty feet from every audience member. Everyone, including the musicians, having a universally shared sonic experience.
When the drummer hits the one on the kick, it comes from the kick drum; when the piano player drops a run to get into a longer solo, it comes from the piano; when someone near the bar in the back of the room shouts “alright!” after a perfectly short bass solo, we all know where that person is (and that they probably know the bass player).
While everyone hears things slightly differently depending on their physical location in the room, everyone is getting the same, shared, sonic experience. All the sounds come from the originator of that sound. It removes the extra step our brains had to do by dismissing the fact that the face-melting guitar solo from the player who is down stage right is
coming from the speaker array on the opposite side of the stage because the tickets we bought are slightly right of centre. But what if we abandon the idea that stereo is possible, or that it should be our default set up for a performance or event sound system?
We now have the technology to fix the problems created from that initial compromise 100 years ago. We have spatialisation and object based mixing engines to give a more realistic, and universal experience.
Using the principals of the Haas Effect, delay-imaging, managed by an object-based dynamic delay-matrix platform, new strategies and techniques – coupled with just a few more speaker channels – can make the amplified sound come from its physical location onstage and deliver a meaningful, truly united experience for our audiences.
The principal of these systems involves using a slightly greater number of speakers (line-arrays or point source) deployed across the front of the stage, either with overlapping coverage patterns or in some cases, separate coverage zones. The individual signals are ‘placed’ spatially in a virtual stage that represents the physical one, then the spatial audio processor applies the correct delay timing and level shading to the individual input sources, so that the audience perceives the source coming from its location on stage.
Some vendors attack this with simple level-panning and some with classic
A production of Turandot for Oper Im Steinbruch, held on Europe’s largest natural stage at St Margarethen, Austria. Photo: Andreas Tischler.
Audiences at Europe’s spectacular open air opera festivals demand very high standards akin to a classical opera house experience, with natural sounding voices, orchestration and acoustics considered a vital element of the performance.
wavefield synthesis. Others utilise automated object-based dynamic delaymatrix rendering with detailed parameter control, which can result in greater spatial mix coverage and often with less critical speaker system designs.
Sound comes from where we see it coming from
The audience does not need to go through the mental exercise of figuring out where the sound is supposed to be coming from and dismissing it. They are able to simply listen with no barriers.
This paradigm shift can introduce a new era of more critical listening and a perceived bespoke experience for every audience member. While the show will sound different in every seat, the experience will be universal, because everyone will know where the sound is coming from.
Beyond frontal systems for concerts or presentations, these new spatial platforms can also introduce mix engineers and designers to powerful tools to control surround sound, transparent theatrical effects systems, and immersive experiential installations. All systems can benefit from the tactical use of delay, as well as level, for a more intimate immersive experience. The only limit is our imaginations.
When I was planning on deploying one of these system for a spectacle production, I brought the directors into a demo of the system so they could hear it and we could begin to establish the way we would address things artistically. After just a brief demonstration of object-based mixing on a frontal system and a short presentation of what we could accomplish, they were excited. One of the directors remarked: “I am now excited to use sound in the show. Usually it is the last thing I would deal with because it was the least fun.”
Back in 2016, my wife and I went to an arena show, and we had decent seats just off centre on one of the long sides, and it was a great place to see everything since the show utilised most of the arena floor. After the show, I asked her what she thought of the show and she was frustrated. I pushed her on why and she said: “I never knew what was going on – I felt like I missed the first line of every scene trying to find where to look. You have to fix this!”
With the development of new tools, we can fix it!
When I subsequently got the opportunity to design a spectacle arena show utilising one of these spatialised, object-based mixing engines, it was a much more enjoyable experience both for my wife and the entire audience. I could guide their eyes and make the music and action come alive. The music sounded better than it did coming out of a ‘traditional’ system and the vocals were clear and came from the performers producing them.
As we have seen with other advances such as line arrays, DSP, digital consoles, etc. the realities of ‘new’ technology deployment can change to favour the consumer quickly as the technology develops further and more of us demand it on our productions. Within the next decade, this technology will be the norm rather than the exception. This is what our audiences deserve.
It will unite them and the artist in a more intimate way, so let’s work to make it happen.
www.goinfinite.com
At Infinite, we manufacture Industry Leading Weather Protected (WP) speaker systems right here at our facility in MIAMI, FL USA. Our product is made using weather, vermin and termite proof composite wood panel material, resulting in solid organic sound that is NOT hollow or tubby sounding like plastic speakers. Our speakers are fitted with the absolute finest and most robust European transducers (components) that money can buy. Our specialized and unique product offering sets the absolute benchmark for installed audio systems for use in Nightlife, Hospitality and Sports/Gaming facilities. Reliability, Sound Quality and High Output Efficiency make us the “go to” product for continuous duty applications in tough commercial environments and DJ or Live Sound applications. We offer every single model for BOTH indoor and outdoor applications. Our speakers all feature a 5 YEAR limited warranty in DIRECT RAIN EXPOSURE.
PRODUCT GUIDE: LOUDSPEAKERS
SPONSORED BY:
This year Celestion celebrates its centenary, commemorating 100 years of designing and building high quality loudspeakers. In 2024 the company continues its tradition of pioneering audio performance, introducing the groundbreaking Ten Squared (Ten2) Series of professional audio loudspeakers for sound reinforcement.
Ten Squared is a new prestige range of low frequency loudspeakers designed and precision engineered at Celestion’s UK-based R&D facility. These cast aluminium frame, neodymium magnet, low frequency transducers are designed to deliver consistently superior levels of performance in the most demanding professional sound reinforcement applications even after hundreds of hours of use.
Comprising five exceptional models, Ten Squared loudspeakers are each meticulously engineered for subwoofer applications or as bass units in two- or three-way loudspeaker cabinets and larger format line arrays.
The line includes the flagship 4800W (continuous) 24inch TSQ2460 featuring a 6-inch voice coil plus the 3600W (continuous) 21-inch TSQ2145 and18-inch TSQ1845, both featuring a 4.5-inch voice coil and both of which are currently in production. The 1800W (continuous) 15-inch TSQ1535 with 3.5-inch voice coil and, and 1400W (continuous) 12-inch TSQ1230 with 3-inch voice coil are scheduled to become available in the second half of 2024.
Key Features
Assembled on a new state-of-the-art robotic production line at Celestion’s UK-based research and manufacturing facility in Suffolk, Ten Squared loudspeakers represent the culmination of 100 years of transducer engineering. They set a new standard in low-frequency audio performance and driver longevity, through the integration of the company’s latest feature innovations combined with a host of small, cumulative improvements. Constant airflow through precisely sized and positioned vents (known as Precision Tuned Venting or PTV), provides highly
efficient cooling around the magnet assembly and voice coils.
The cooling potential is further optimised through custom voice coil winding that utilizes a hybrid multilayer, inside/outside methodology.
In tests, the cooling benefit was as much as -30° C versus conventional designs. Ten Squared’s PTV cooling and proprietary coil structure together combine to deliver significant reduction of power compression and thermal stress, maximising performance, product lifespan and overall longevity.
The uniquely reconfigured Ten Squared magnet assembly enables much greater cone excursion and a remarkably high Xprotection level. Here, each driver’s motor strength and mechanical compliance reach a defined Xprotection limit at practically the same point, achieving a very low distortion performance, even during high excursion.
Other features include Polysiloxane laminated dual suspensions (triple suspension on the 24-inch model) which can work longer and harder than those of ordinary drivers without losing stiffness providing better coil control and reduced likelihood of DC shift, while simultaneously increasing speaker longevity. Additionally, weaving lead-out wires into the suspension through laser cut holes reduces ‘whipping’ and lessens the fatigue on the wires and their joints which can be caused by high power usage and the resultant cone excursion.
According to Ken Weller, Celestion Head of Marketing, “Ten Squared reflects Celestion’s unwavering commitment to excellence over the last one hundred years. Not satisfied to rest on our laurels, these drivers redefine standards of performance and durability, setting a new benchmark for professional low-frequency audio. This new range is a testament to our continuing dedication to the highest engineering standards, our commitment to British manufacturing and our obsession with delivering superior audio solutions for the most demanding sound reinforcement applications.” www.celestion.com
Celestion Ten Squared
1 SOUND PANORAMA MS34
The Panorama is a two-channel point source loudspeaker system featuring Mono+Stereo speaker technology. Mono+Stereo Technology starts with L/R and divides it into a mono (mid) plus sides.
From there, the M+S is arranged in this compact loudspeaker system preserving the true mono while surrounding the listener with a spacious stereo image. As a stand-alone mono loudspeaker (switch and preset dependent) it can become a horizontal line source helping to preserve its off-axis frequency response while adding 5 more dB of gain. This loudspeaker is one-of-a-kind as a front fill, under-balcony, monitor and an installed distributed system. www.1-sound.com
VGt is not just another loudspeaker; it’s a large-format line array enclosure that’s been meticulously crafted for use in arenas, stadiums, festivals, performance halls, and more. This groundbreaking product is set to transform the way audiences experience live sound.
At the heart of VGt lies Adamson’s patented mid-range technology, which redefines the capabilities of a line array system. Combined with onboard class-D amplification, redundant and daisy-chainable Milan AVB, and comprehensive DSP, VGt delivers astonishing power and clarity while maintaining a surprisingly compact size and weight.
Understanding that every venue has unique acoustic challenges, VGt offers variable low-frequency coverage patterns. Users can choose from various cardioid or non-cardioid configurations to tailor sound coverage precisely to their needs.
An Autolock rigging system allows a single technician to quickly and safely set up an entire system. This innovation streamlines the process, saving time and labour costs.
VGt is more than a standalone product—it’s part of a comprehensive ecosystem. This includes brackets, dollies, accessories, and covers, all designed to work seamlessly with Adamson’s Array Intelligence software. www.adamson.ai
AUDIOFOCUS ISOLDE AP108
Isolde AP108 is a range of powerful 2-way, 8-inch point source loudspeakers for live sound and installation. Designed to deliver high sound pressure levels in a small footprint, Isolde AP108 mounts a premium 8-inch LF transducer incorporating Tetracoil voice coil technology to achieve a peak SPL of 129dB. The chosen neodymium magnet 1.4-inch exit HF transducer has a 2.4-inch voice coil and is from the same family as the drivers employed in Audiofocus’ recently launched column PA and constant curvature series, ensuring a uniform audio signature across the company’s range. AP108’s distinctive asymmetrical design allows it to be deployed vertically or horizontally or placed onstage as a wedge monitor. A bespoke 3D printed waveguide ensures rigid 90o by 60o coverage and can be quickly rotated according to the application. Isolde AP108 is offered in self-powered and passive live versions with integral grab handles and bi-angled pole mounts, or as a dedicated installation variant with clean lines and optional ceiling or wall mounts. The self-powered AP108a can be controlled and monitored remotely from any device using SCiO browser-based software. www.audiofocus.eu
Blaze Audio Constant Beamwidth Loudspeaker (CBL) Series
The Constant Beamwidth Loudspeaker (CBL) Series, designed for installed sound applications, includes two models: the CBL528 and the CBL523. The CBL528 offers 180º symmetrical horizontal pattern control and a 45º vertical pattern from 420Hz to 18kHz. It features eight 2-inch drivers for mid-high frequencies and four 5-inch low-frequency drivers, with a frequency response down to 54Hz. This bi-amped design integrates seamlessly with Blaze Audio amplifiers, making it ideal for permanent installations in sports arenas, conference centres, performing arts venues, and houses of worship. The CBL523, with its 160º symmetrical horizontal pattern control and a 55º vertical pattern from 520Hz to 18kHz, is perfect for front fill or under-balcony applications. It includes three 2-inch mid-high frequency drivers and two 5-inch low-frequency drivers, with a frequency response down to 71Hz. Hugh Sarvis, Blaze Audio’s Director of Loudspeakers, highlighted the compact form factor and flexible installation options, noting the bi-amped design’s suitability for various permanent installations. George Tennet, VP of Sales and Marketing, emphasised the brand’s commitment to delivering consistent, high-quality sound and ease of installation. www.blaze-audio.com
Adamson
PRODUCT GUIDE: LOUDSPEAKERS
SPONSORED BY:
Genelec
3440A Smart IP PoE subwoofer
Genelec has further expanded its Smart IP family of active installation loudspeaker systems with the introduction of the 3440A – a truly pioneering new PoE subwoofer. The 3440A joins the existing Smart IP range of wall, ceiling, and pendant loudspeaker models to provide a scalable full-range audio solution that combines exceptional sound quality and networked convenience. With the addition of the 3440A, the Smart IP family now represents an even more flexible and future-proof choice for integrators and installers everywhere.
Originally launched in 2019, the Smart IP range provides flexible power, audio, and management features via a single standard CAT cable. Producing studio-quality audio with superb clarity, intelligibility and uniform coverage, all models can be freely combined on a network. The Smart IP range is compatible with both Dante and AES67 streams, deriving power via PoE or PoE+ Power-over-Ethernet formats.
As well as receiving both power and audio-over-IP, the 3440A’s RJ45 connector also allows access to Genelec’s sophisticated Smart IP Manager configuration software. Smart IP Manager enables installers to configure an almost unlimited number of rooms, zones, loudspeakers, and audio channels. It includes system organisation, status monitoring, and a versatile room equalisation tool set – including adjustment of the 3440A’s crossover frequency. For day-today end user control, a public API command set and growing range of drivers allows easy integration of Smart IP models with third party automation/control systems.
Measuring just 475 mm x 475 mm x 220 mm (18.75 in x 18.75 in x 8.75 in) and weighing in at a modest 14.5 kg (32 lb), the compact design of the 3440A features a 165 mm (6.5 in) driver, an efficient 70 W internal Class D amplifier stage and dual reflex ports, delivering clean, controlled low frequency performance between 35 and 120 Hz. The 3440A’s proprietary internal power supply technology stores power in order to produce an impressive 106 dB of short-term SPL whenever needed. Genelec’s power-saving Intelligent Signal Sensing (ISS) circuitry provides further efficiency by activating a low power ‘sleep’ mode if no audio is detected for a defined period.
The active design of the 3440A provides both optimum audio performance and removes the need for bulky racks of external amplifiers and their associated cabling. Alongside the support for lossless, low latency IP audio streams, analogue connectivity is also supported via a Euroblock connector – which can be used either as a failsafe backup, or to enable IP control of an analogue source.
Available in black or white finishes, the 3440A can be discreetly integrated into any environment, and can either be positioned on the floor, or mounted on the wall or ceiling via an optional heavy duty bracket. Designed, assembled, and tested by Genelec in Iisalmi, Finland, the 3440A will provide decades of reliable performance in even the most challenging environments. Backed up by Genelec’s well-earned reputation for unrivalled technical support, Smart IP loudspeaker solutions are a secure long term investment for any AV installation project.
“With a growing range of loudspeaker models, it was clear that the addition of a PoE subwoofer was going to make the Smart IP family an even more comprehensive solution for premium AV installations,” commented Genelec AV Business Manager Kati Pajukallio. “With the 3440A’s combination of clean, precise low frequency performance and networked flexibility, we’re sure that the Smart IP family will now be embraced by an even wider range of integrators and installers around the world.”
www.genelec.com
Bose Professional MSA12X
Bluesound Professional BCS300
The BCS300 is a seamlessly integrated, all-in-one in-ceiling or hanging pendant speaker solution featuring a built-in music streamer and amplifier. Using power over ethernet technology, it efficiently delivers audio to its desired destination in a discreet and simplified manner, requiring only a single ethernet cable connection to deliver both power and network connection. Unlike traditional setups, this decentralized solution eliminates the need for an audio rack, functioning as an independent unit. Moreover, its flush-mounted design allows it to seamlessly blend with any interior design or décor. Its high-performance build includes a UL 2043 plenum rating, fully certifying it for commercial installation.The optional pendant kit allows the BCS300 to be ceiling suspended and allows positioning of speakers at a lower height if there is nothing available to mount it at a typical height, especially in the case of exposed ceilings. Based on the award-winning BluOS multi-room platform, the BCS300 enables multi-zone control, speaker grouping and integrated networked music streaming from Bluesound Professional’s business music partners: SOUNDMACHINE, Qsic, Custom Channels, SiriusXM for Business, and Tunify. www.bluesoundprofessional.com
The MSA12X powered beam-steering array loudspeaker is specially engineered to excel in vocal intelligibility and musicality, even in acoustically challenging spaces. Twelve processed and amplified transducers create a precise vertical sound beam that covers the entire audience while reducing disruptive echoes that compromise clarity. The result: a consistent front-to-back sound without mechanical aiming or angling brackets. The MSA12X goes beyond conventional loudspeakers with its dual-beam functionality, enabling the vertical sound beam to be split into two, providing simultaneous coverage for separate areas such as the main floor and a balcony. The articulated transducer configuration provides 160° horizontal coverage, delivering consistent tonality across the entire audience space, ensuring each listener enjoys the same sound experience. The install-friendly modular design of the MSA12X allows easy stacking of up to three linked modules. Lengthening the array results in extended coverage, lower-frequency control, and improved dual-beam functionality—without custom ordering or oversized shipping boxes. The array’s beam-steering capability also allows you to mount it at varying heights—not just ear-level like conventional column arrays. Plus, the Dante network interface and ControlSpace ecosystem integration ensure seamless connectivity and system control. www.boseprofessional.com
d&b audiotechnik XSL System
The XSL System is a line array that comprises installation specific and mobile touring variants. XSLi for permanent installations, is ideally suited to venues with a high dependency on the clarity of spoken word, together with the need for high power, full-spectrum performance. The XSL mobile version addresses the needs of the broadest range of touring applications. Both XSL and XSLi can be deployed as a stand-alone package, or as a delay or fill system to accompany its GSL and KSL siblings. XSL’s extra small dimensions bring the SL-Series feature set (2-way active design, high SPL and impressive cardioid low-frequency performance) to a huge range of installations and events. www.dbaudio.com
CODA Audio
HOPS7-Pro
The HOPS7-Pro is a compact, high output, point source loudspeaker, with high power handling of 1000W, featuring dual 6.5-inch neodymium ultra-low distortion cone drivers, low frequency drivers, and a 1.75-inch VC annular diaphragm compression driver enhancing mid-high frequencies. The smallest of the HOPS-Pro Series, the HOPS7-Pro gives unrivalled power while retaining a compact design. In contrast to the standard HOPS range which has fixed directivity, all Pro models, including the HOPS7-Pro, boast instafit rotatable waveguides behind a quick release grille, the removal of which requires no tools. This allows the flexibility of adjusting directivity with 80° by 50° and 120° by 60° options in portrait or landscape orientation. Being the part of the HOPS-Pro Series, the HOPS7-Pro is loaded with the best of CODA Audio’s advanced technologies including Dynamic Airflow Cooling (DAC) and Phase Linearity. www.codaaudio.com
DAS Audio ARA-P28
The ARA-P28 is a state-of-the-art point source system known for its blend of technical innovation and acoustic precision. Available in two versions, the ARA-P28.74 and the ARA-P28.115, this system caters to diverse acoustic needs. The ARA-P28.74 features a dual 8-inch speaker configuration, delivering a frequency range from 70Hz to 17kHz, with a rotatable horn providing 70º horizontal and 40º vertical coverage. The ARA-P28.115 offers broader coverage of 100º horizontal and 50º vertical, making it versatile for various applications.
Both versions are powered by a robust class D amplifier with universal mains switching, delivering 1200W continuous and 2400W peak power, ensuring powerful performance. The advanced electronics include a 96kHz sampling rate and the intuitive ALMA control interface for precise sound management. The system’s DSP platform uses Finite Impulse Response filters (FIR) for an acoustically flat magnitude and phase response, ensuring seamless integration with other ARA series units.
The ARA-P28 features custom-manufactured transducers and compression drivers, such as the 8GXN and M78N, providing exceptional audio clarity and detail. Designed for versatility, it includes M10 rigging points for various configurations. www.dasaudio.com
Funktion-One
Evo 2
Ecler MIA Series
The MIA Series of column loudspeakers incorporates an elegant, unique and slim compact design built in a single aluminium piece to reduce component vibrations. Both models are available in black and white colour, are IP44graded ready for outdoor applications, and are prepared to work for high and low-impedance lines. The two columns behave as a mini line array with the disposition of eight drivers per column and the possibility of working in 16 ohms or 64 ohms by selecting them behind the logo located in the grill just like the NIMBO Series. MIA-81 includes 8 by 1.5-inch drivers with an RMS rating of 40W. The bracket included, FLATY, allows the column to be mounted against the wall in single mode and two columns to be installed side by side on top of each other in double mode. MIA-82 includes 8 by 2.5inch drivers with an RMS rating of 150W. The bracket included, HANDY, is versatile and easy to mount, with swivel and tilt adjustment.
Both brackets are made of stainless steel and permit adjusting the height at any point of the column’s length. www.ecler.com
EM Acoustics R5
Continuing the heritage of the Reference Series loudspeakers, the R5 is a 3-way passive system engineered to convey the elegance, performance and headroom of the Reference Series in a compact, discreet and versatile package.
The R5 retains the same DNA as its larger siblings, delivering truly abundant audio that defies its physical size, making it perfect for front fills and delays in theatres, sleek speech reinforcement in a corporate or audio/ visual setting, or subtle and sympathetic deployment in houses of worship. The slim enclosure houses a pair of bespoke state-of-the-art 1.25-inch voice coil 5-inch neodymium LF/MF drive units, and a 1.5-inch voice coil annular HF compression drive unit. The use of an annular diaphragm retains the ultra-low harmonic distortion levels that the Reference Series has become renowned for throughout the industry. These drive units are fed via a unique 3-way crossover topology, minimising off-axis parallax and lobing effects whilst retaining the consistency of sonic character right across the operating range.
www.emacoustics.co.uk
Evo 2 is a medium dispersion, high efficiency, fully horn-loaded, 3-way loudspeaker, which features the latest Funktion-One driver technology and highly refined tuning. Evo 2 has evolved from Resolution 2 which has been in the marketplace for 25 years. Its outstanding performance capabilities and versatile format make it very appealing across a range of live event and install applications, including a four-point club system or two-wide flown system for medium-sized venues. Its manageable size and innovative Butterfly Plate rigging system enable quick and easy deployment. Evo 2 is perfectly suited to ground stacking for small events, flying singly or in pairs for wider coverage and larger audience areas, or used as fills supporting Vero, Evo or Vero VX systems. Evo 2 can easily be adapted between 3 way active (NL8-tri amp) or 3 way passive mid/hi (NL4-bi amp). Also, it is available in standard Funktion-One violet finish or tough black PU coating and a foam-backed grille can be added for a more discreet appearance. A custom flight case is also available for safe transportation of a pair of Evo 2. www.funktion-one.com
GetShow Audio VRX988LA
The VRX988LA is a high-powered, lightweight, compact dual 8-inch two-way line array speaker system. Designed for use in arrays of up to eight units, VRX988LA is the ideal choice when line-array performance is needed but the venue size does not call for the long-throw characteristics of larger line-arrays and a fast and easy setup is vital.
Built-in class D amplifier module and integrated with DSP and FIR, it provides 1000W of peak power. DSP-based resident input module provides system optimisation and EQ functionality. Quality neodymium components stand for high-power capacity and are lightweight. The system features 3 by 34mm Annular Ring Diaphragm HF drivers and 2 by 8-inch LF drivers. VRX988LA delivers clean and strong sound as a plug-and-play system – it’s a great choice for use in small to medium events. www.86speaker.com
Named after a goddess, DAP’s Frigga is an active column PA system that is ideal for mobile DJs, bands, singer-songwriters, nightlife venues, corporate presenters , and more. Frigga consists of an active, dual 12-inch subwoofer that has an integrated amplifier for the column speaker, which features six 4-inch neodymium midrange drivers and a 1.5-inch neodymium compression driver. Together, the sub, amp, and column speaker deliver up to 1000W (RMS) of sublime sound. With a maximum SPL of 134dB at 1m and a frequency range of 40Hz to 20kHz, Frigga produces booming bass, mighty mids and towering trebles. There are two XLR/jack combo inputs on board: one for a microphone and one for line-level equipment. With separate gain controls for the mic and line channels, a level control for the sub and a comprehensive internal DSP, Frigga’s celestial sound can be tweaked to perfection. Frigga is also blessed with Bluetooth 5.0 and features True Wireless Stereo that works when two Frigga systems are used together. The system, which is available in black or white, comes complete with cables, two mounting poles, and spacers for versatile setups. www.highlite.com
HH Electronics TNA Line-array
TNA Active Line Array system is designed for small to medium sized applications. At the heart of the system are the TNA-2120SA, a multi-channel active subwoofer with integrated Class D amplifier, which features two high power 12-inch low frequency woofers with exceptionally high output, and the TNA-1800SA, a powerful single 18-inch active low frequency subwoofer. As well as three channels of high-performance amplification, the TNA-2120SA unit houses six cutting-edge built-in DSP presets and as part of a modular system, is capable of powering up to six satellite TNA-2051 passive two-way compact line array loudspeakers, offering an ideal installation solution without the extra expense of rack amplifiers and processors.
The TNA-2051 features dual HH-designed 5-inch LF drivers and 1.33-inch Celestion HF compression driver. Its outer enclosure features integrated rigging hardware, enabling the unit to be easily installed by a single engineer. Highly flexible, the TNA-2051 can be used in traditional line array systems for long throw applications, or as a standalone full range point source system. The optimally voiced DSP presets within the TNA-2120SA allow a complete system to be used in flown or groundstacked configurations.
www.hhelectronics.com
Setting a new standard in sound reinforcement for speech-based and multi-content applications, X2 is the latest development in HOLOPLOT’s commitment to enabling exceptional listening experiences. Equipped with the same core functionalities of 3D Audio-Beamforming and Wave Field Synthesis as their flagship X1 Matrix Array, X2 achieves the same HOLOPLOT defining qualities of tight sound control that avoids reflective surfaces to achieve ultimate speech intelligibility and sound quality. X2 is suitable for functional as well as creative deployments, retaining the full feature toolset of Virtual Sources, multi-zoning and targeted reflections, making it a versatile solution for a multitude of projects. At home in auditoria, conference spaces, PA/VA applications, and Houses of Worship, X2 is engineered to tackle longstanding acoustic issues, mitigating unwanted reflections, reducing the need for acoustic treatment, and preserving project aesthetics. Despite its compact size, X2’s simple, intuitive mounting frame allows efficient installation across various environments. It is ideal for safety-critical settings like train stations and airports and is built to withstand extreme weather conditions, ensuring reliable audio performance in any climate. X2 sound systems can be designed inside the HOLOPLOT sound system design software, HOLOPLOT Plan, enabling accurate planning and simulation. www.holoplot.com
L-Acoustics Xi Series
The Xi Series are slender, compact coaxial loudspeakers that seamlessly integrate into highend architectural settings while providing clear, studio-like sound. With maximum SPL of 123 and 125dB, frequency response down to 69Hz, and a 1.5-inch neodymium compression driver coaxially loaded by 6-inch or 8-inch low-frequency transducers in a bass reflex. Integrators can not only access the L-Acoustics product range, but also Soundvision, the proprietary 3D modelling software. Supported by expert calibration services, L-Acoustics products and services can help integrators create amazing, immersive environments with scientific precision. www.l-acoustics.com
Martin Audio FlexPoint
KV2 Audio EX28
KV2 Audio’s EX Series of active loudspeakers has been a staple of the KV2 portfolio for nearly two decades. Offering a wide range of compact high-performance cabinets, there is an EX Series solution for virtually every application, from compact mobile PA requirements to discreet theatre or House of Worship systems, corporate applications and more. KV2 has expanded the range once again with the addition of the EX28. The EX28 is a 2-way full-range active loudspeaker system that builds on the success of the EX26 whilst adding further low-frequency extension. Its compact profile makes it ideal for a multitude of FOH and infill applications in any environment that requires premium quality in a compact form factor including theatres, leisure venues, Houses of Worship and concert halls. www.kv2audio.com
LD Systems MAUI 11 G3
Many people who own a MAUI 11 G3 are musicians or DJs who want a compact yet powerful column speaker. But the MAUI 11 G3 also transcends the stage to become a perfect fit for mobile audio installation for hospitality venues! Its sleek, slim design allows seamless integration into any space, fitting snugly into corners and delivering impeccable sound reinforcement. Utilising the line array principle, the MAUI 11 G3 precisely directs sound where it’s needed while effectively eliminating unwanted reflections. This makes it perfect for creating serene atmospheres in quiet zones within bustling establishments. Plus, with its cardioid column, rear reflections are minimised, ensuring a clear audio experience in acoustically difficult spaces. And, for those special occasions when live music or DJ sets are on the menu, the MAUI 11 G3 shines even brighter! Its easy setup and robust design ensure that you can focus on creating unforgettable experiences for your guests, whether they’re dining al fresco or enjoying a lively evening indoors. www.ld-systems.com
The FlexPoint Series covers a vast range of professional applications—from live sound reinforcement, theatre sound and Corporate AV to distributed sound systems for installations and immersive environments. From the miniature FP4 to the powerful FP15, FlexPoint loudspeakers are compact and discreet — providing ultimate clarity, detail and coverage at all sound levels without affecting sight lines or detracting from venue architecture. FlexPoint systems are also designed to integrate perfectly with Wavefont Precision and TORUS arrays where fill and delay loudspeakers are required — ensuring the same superb sonic characteristics and consistent coverage throughout the venue. www.martin-audio.com
Meyer Sound ULTRA-X80
The ULTRA-X80 is the newest, most powerful member of Meyer Sound’s ULTRA family of point source loudspeakers. Drawing from the acoustic heritage of the ULTRA-X40 and ULTRA-X20 and incorporating technology innovations from the PANTHER large-format line array, the ULTRA-X80 delivers unparalleled precision, power, and clarity in a compact, easy-to-deploy package. The ULTRA-X80’s concentric-driver design combines two 12-inch neodymium-magnet cone drivers with a rotatable 95 by 40º waveguide coupled to a 4-inch high-frequency compression driver, for smooth response and exceptional directional control. Leveraging Meyer Sound’s ultralight Class D amplifier technology, the ULTRA-X40 achieves a linear peak output of 141dB SPL in a cabinet weighing just 130lb. For enhanced flexibility, an ULTRA-X82 variant offers a tighter 50 by 40º dispersion pattern and a peak output of 142 dB SPL. Both models integrate seamlessly with the Meyer Sound ecosystem, offering analogue and MILAN connectivity, and are supported by the Nebra integrated software platform. Ideal for a wide range of high-SPL applications, from stadiums and arenas to theatres, houses of worship, and corporate AV, the ULTRA-X80 and ULTRA-X82 redefine point source loudspeaker performance, providing powerful, clear sound in any scenario. meyersound.com
Optimal Audio Cuboid Series
Cuboid is a series of full range, two-way, passive loudspeakers designed for short to medium throw distances, delivering rich and detailed sound with punch and precision, at a cost competitive price point. This range of stylish enclosures comprises 3-inch, 5-inch, 6-inch, 8-inch, 10-inch, 12-inch and 15-inch units. Flexible mounting hardware facilitates clean and simple installation. Each loudspeaker provides an impressive bass and mid-band with clarity of vocal and high note projection. Cuboid 3, Cuboid 5, and Cuboid 6 feature ABS plastic cabinets and painted aluminium grilles and have 70/100V transformer versions, while the Cuboid 8, 10, 12, and 15 feature wooden cabinets with steel grilles and benefit from a user-rotatable horn for consistent coverage in either plane. For enhanced bass performance they can be teamed with the Optimal Audio Sub Series, and a SmartAmp or Zone will provide optimal sound settings as well as limiters to protect the drivers when playing at higher sound levels. When coupled with Zone and WebApp, system set up and end user control is straightforward, and can be further enhanced by ZonePad wall controllers. www.optimal-audio.co.uk
Pioneer PRO AUDIO CM Series
Pioneer PRO AUDIO CM Series comprises a range of celling and surface mount loudspeakers. CM-C54T and CM-C56T ceiling loudspeakers are designed to deliver high quality audio in a variety of commercial spaces. Offering crystal clear audio and a discreet embedded design, they are perfect for installation in hotels, restaurants, offices and other locations where superior sound and aesthetics are key. These affordable and adaptable loudspeakers include a host of features such as transformer taps – ideal for professional and adaptable fixed installation solutions. The versatile two-way CM-S54T, CM-S56T and CM-S58T surface mount loudspeakers, and CM-510ST subwoofer, produce premium-quality audio. Available in black or white, these units are perfect for discreet installation in a variety of spaces where reliability is crucial, and the loudspeakers can even be used for some applications outdoors. CM Series draws on Pioneer PRO AUDIO heritage in the manufacture of club speakers, enabling the brand to provide turnkey systems that save space, complement interior design and deliver outstanding audio in any venue, regardless of layout. www.pioneerproaudio.com
RCF
ART 912-A
ART 912-A is masterfully engineered to deliver stellar audio performance and versatility for intensive audio applications. The combination of a 1.75” compression driver, 12” woofer, two-channel 2100W amplifier, and the constant directivity True Resistive Waveguide produces coherent 100° x 60° coverage for the listening area with up to 130 dB SPL, distortion-free sound. Merging RCF proprietary FiRPHASE and Bass Motion Control DSP processing, perfectly tuned for each model, the audience will experience absolute clarity and deep, powerful bass response. The sleek cabinet uses a special polypropylene composite material with an M-brace internal reinforcement, making it easy to carry and secure to install on a pole, flown-, wall-, or truss-mounted using the multiple rigging points available. www.rcf.it
Utilising the same complex algorithms from Renkus-Heinz’s flagship Iconyx columns, the UBX Series’ Passive UniBeam Technology delivers pristine sound and consistent coverage with minimal distortion or side lobe artefacts. By implementing steered array technology into a compact passive column, the UBX Series offers a way to meet the unique needs of diverse projects with the power, performance and intelligibility that have made Renkus-Heinz an industry leader for decades — all without compromising on precise coverage or sleek design. The UBX4 is the smallest model in the UBX Series, but it still delivers precise vertical pattern control and an unmatched combination of features for a loudspeaker of its size. Passive UniBeam technology offers incredibly consistent coverage and constant directivity for such a small loudspeaker. Four high-quality neodymium transducers deliver the impeccable sound quality Renkus-Heinz audio solutions are known for. The included 60W 70/100V transformer, wallmount bracket, and standard weather resistance make it simple to integrate into any system design. www.renkus-heinz.com
Renkus-Heinz UBX Series Theory
The NEO 5 Air loudspeaker is the latest edition to the popular WORK PRO NEO range. Its unique feature is its built-in wireless digital audio transceiver, which allows the loudspeakers to act as a broadcast system where any unit can be used as a master or receiver. For example, in an installation with numerous NEO 5 AIR speakers, one speaker can be set up as the master so that it can broadcast the audio source to all the other ‘receiver’ loudspeakers. The NEO 5 Air master can also stream audio to an unlimited number of NEO 5 Air receivers, and thanks to the inclusion of a channel selector controlled by dip switches, it is possible to broadcast up to 16 different channels. The NEO 5 Air is a cost-effective loudspeaker that combines exceptionally high-quality audio with a compact design, thus making it much easier for installers to blend the speakers with the architectural requirements of their project. And with an IP54 rating, they are also ideal for all outdoor applications. www.workpro.es
Via careful processing and computer-optimised tuned ports, Theory Professional’s small but highly capable ic6 6.5-inch in-ceiling loudspeaker delivers exceptional low-frequency bandwidth, punch and resolution, plus extremely wide dispersion. Building on Theory’s ic6 Acoustic Core platform, the ic6-Bollard is the ic6 loudspeaker installed into an elegant ‘Dark Chocolate’ (and paintable) stainless steel Bollard housing. Once integrated, the ic6-Bollard becomes a full-range landscape loudspeaker providing 360º of flawless, uniform, coverage. Pair it with the new iws12-Bollard subwoofer and users can reach sound reinforcement levels in landscapes – a rarity outdoors. For large, distributed installations, users can use hundreds of ic6-Bollard loudspeakers. The ic6 includes a switch-selectable 70V/100V transformer that can be driven direct by Theory’s DLC-250.4d 4-channel loudspeaker controller. The DLC-250.4d can drive up to 16 Theory 16-ohm loudspeakers in Lo-Z mode, or up to 64 in Hi-Z mode – all from a half-rack chassis. www.theoryprofessional.com
The CZR Series is a range of passive loudspeakers offering high power handling and outstanding sonic performance in a portable, lightweight, yet rugged design. The CZR is ideal for a range of live performance and installed sound environments— from live bands at outdoor festivals to DJ’s in clubs—these loudspeakers deliver crystal clear, high-quality sound with impressive bass performance. For even more bottom end to round out your sound, adding CXS XLF Series passive subwoofers can extend your system’s low frequency performance dramatically down to a startling 29Hz for throbbing low frequency reproduction capability that’s sure to impress. www.yamaha.com
EXPOLITE WD 7 FX
With the WD 7 FX, Expolite has added a new LED wash moving head to its extensive product portfolio. As Focon Showtechnic’s own brand, Expolite has been an established name in lighting technology for two decades, and the WD 7 FX is a powerful yet compact LED wash moving head with zoom and LED ring with halo-effect. The WD 7 FX’s robust die-cast aluminum housing and IP65 certification make it a reliable companion in a variety of environments, and thanks to its seven 40W RGBL LEDs, it delivers a solid luminous flux of over 4,000 lumens. The motorised zoom allows precise adjustment of the light beam from 3.5° to 44° to meet the requirements of different venues. Despite its solid performance, the WD 7 FX is surprisingly handy and light – with a weight of 10kg and compact dimensions, it is easy to transport and to install. The user interface is intuitively designed, making it easy to operate and to quickly adjust the lighting effects, making the WD 7 FX a well-balanced combination of performance, robustness and simplicity. www.focon-showtechnic.com
WORK PRO
INTEGRA SERIES
The powerful new Integra Series is a digital signal processing matrix that gives users full control of their audio output across multiple zones.
Aimed at the professional installation market, the Integra Series offers configurable perchannel DSP architecture, adjust gains, EQ, compression, limiting and much more. With unparalleled flexibility, the Integra Series allows users to set parameters and fine-tune every aspect of the sound, thus optimising the listening experience and providing exceptional results in any environment.
There are four different Integra Series products, offering 8, 16 or 32 input/output configurations. The flexibility of the range ensures that the right product can be chosen for any application, from the smallest installation with very few areas to process, to larger installations with a variety of different areas, such as department stores, supermarkets, gyms, conference rooms and hospitality.
“Our aim with the Integra Series is to give professional installation customers advanced technology that opens up a world of creative possibilities,” said Juan Jose Vila, CEO of Equipson. “These products give users the ability to individually configure and correct audio in multiple zones depending on what audio processing is required to produce the best sound.”
The series starts with an 8-channel 8S and 16-channel 16S Integra and is delivered with a free and powerful native parameter management software offering function control on inputs and outputs and configurable DSP architecture for each channel. The software includes controls
for input and output gains, expander, compressor, parametric equalisation, limiter and anti-feedback on each channel. Its visual matrix and automix module ensure that it is adaptable for many different types of installation.
The more advanced 16-channel Integra 16+, and the 32-channel Integra 32+ both feature Dante digital inputs. These versions are supported by Integra Plus native parameter management software, which is also free and incorporates all the features of Integra 8S and 16S, along with additional functions such as noise gate, parametric equalisation up to 31 bands, and Ducker and Voice Tracking for synchronising video cameras.
Both software versions are very intuitive and easy to use thanks to a highly visual interface that allows user to see configurations in real time.
In addition to a plethora of useful control features, all of the products in the Integra Series have USB ports for play/record, API for third party management, and can be controlled from mobile devices via an APP for iOs and Android.
The Series is also supported by a WC 3U Wall Control unit with an OLED screen and built-in rotary button/push button, which is designed for simple and complete programming through the INTEGRA 8S and INTEGRA Plus software. Housed in an elegant aluminium casing, the Wall Control unit also features TCP/IP and UDP communication capabilities, making it easy to integrate into a variety of systems. Additionally, it is powered via PoE (Power over Ethernet), which simplifies installation.
www.workpro.es
1. Ayrton Kyalami
The Kyalami is the first IP65-rated laser source luminaire in Ayrton’s Creative Solution series. Inspired by the MagicDot and devised for architectural graphic effects, Kyalami is an ultra-compact luminaire with incredible creative potential. A sphere of just 265mm incorporates Kyalami’s 100W laser module, cooling system and optics, while its 126mm front lens positioned in the continuity of the sphere provides Kyalami with a unique visual signature. www.ayrton.eu
2. Electro-Voice EVID
Two new series of Electro-Voice’s EVID ceiling speakers have been introduced, both designed from the ground up: the standard EVID-C-G2 series includes seven models and replaces the existing C series, while the addition of five EVID-EC (Entry Ceiling) entry-level models further expands the previous product lineup. Collectively the 12 new models provide mix-and-match price/performance options that can be selected to precisely address the distributed audio requirements of different areas in an installation. www.electrovoice.com
3. NEUTRIK NA-2 DLINE
The NA-2 DLINE is a series of tough, ultra-compact line I/O to Dante / Dante to line I/O interface boxes. the new end-of-network devices provide ideal breakout solutions for analogue and Dante signal paths in-thefield; designed and specified for all manner of live sound and media production applications. With a miniature form factor and rubber encased metal housing, the new NA-2 DLINE series devices are extremely robust, able to withstand the more extreme demands of a wide range of live performance and media production and acquisition environments.
www.neutrik.com
4. Shure WL18Xm
Newly designed, the low-profile WL18Xm professional lavalier condenser microphones in the WL series include the cardioid WL185m, supercardioid WL184m (pictured), and omnidirectional WL183m, for use with wireless bodypack transmitters. The refreshed portfolio builds on the legacy and performance of existing Shure WL lavalier microphone technology, offering full and accurate sound quality with an improved presence response.
The WL18Xm line is 8mm shorter than its predecessor, making it lighter, lower-profile, and easier to use. www.shure.com
