ETA March-April 2015

March - April 2015

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Madame Tussauds Brings Personalities To Life Christie On Coolux Acquisition

Singapore’s Nightlife Dissected

TSB & EAW Turn The Sound A-Round

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CONTENT VOL 16 ISSUE 2 March - April 2015

70 KV2 Strikes Titanium

60 Your Next Purchase 52 Magical Water Opens Rep Office In Singapore

06 FIRST WORDS 08 NEWS 32 ENNOVATIONS EXHIBITION PREVIEW 50 Prolight + Sound Guangzhou 2015

INSTALL 66 Shanghai Symphony Hall Harmonizes With ETC 68 TSB & EAW Turn The Sound A-Round 70 KV2 Strikes Titanium 73 SENE Designs & Installs Audio For GIS 74 Electro-Voice Receives Great Feedback From Football Fans

IN PROFILE 52 Magical Water

SNAPSHOT 54 Christie On Coolux Acquisition

SPECIAL FEATURE 56 Singapore’s Nightlife Dissected 60 Your Next Purchase

75 Madame Tussauds Brings Personalities To Life

80 FOOD- 4 -THOUGHT LIVE! 81 Martin Audio Tames Taronga 82 DPA Helps Niels Lan Doky 84 EAW Drives LOL World Championship

85 Students Find Inspiration With Martin Professional 86 L-Acoustics Fires Up DreamWorks’ 88 Robe BMFLs “Whisper” To Passenger 90 TDC Brings Visions Of Vienna To Life 92 PR Lighting Has A Taste For Egypt 94 Shure Delivers Perfection For Sammi Cheng 96 Symetrix Is The Match For ‘Phenomenal’ Thai Live Production

97 HaAavve U Met...?

06

FIRST WORDS March - April 2015

Is it just me or does the past always have a way of finding us?

Nothing is safe from the past, not even technology. I recently read an article about binaural recording systems - a hundred-year-old method of audio recording that captures lifelike 3D audio in picture-perfect quality. In a nutshell, binaural means to listen with both ears at the same time.

Usually, the two sides of your brain take their turns working in perfect harmony. However, binaural recording systems can transform any room into an intimate live music venue, targeting both parts of your brain at once to consider it immersive would be putting it mildly.

You can ‘experience’ it for yourself and get to know more about it through this article on The Verge’s website: And again, this is nothing new. This method of recording has literally been around for a century. Yet, it’s going through a revitalisation now and getting more recognised as the world of technology moves toward the 3D-sphere.

I find the concept of the past affecting the present very interesting.

It was a theme that I feel affected one of our special features in this issue, ‘Singapore’s Nightlife Dissected. From external sources to the over-enthusiasm of club owners, the Singapore nightlife has been through a lot. While it is still considered vibrant, the past has definitely affected what it is today. Whether it be for better or worse?

I’ll let you decide.

For this issue, I feel particularly blessed because we were privileged enough to not only cover the grand installation at the Madame Tussauds museum but we also got to pick the brain of Jennifer Smith, Exec VP of Christie’s Global Market Solutions, on the acquisition of coolux.

PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Thomas Richard Prakasam thomas@spinworkz.com

INDIA AND MIDDLE EAST EDITOR Ram Bhavanashi ram@spinworkz.com

EDITOR, DIGITAL PLATFORM Rosalind Tan rosalind@spinworkz.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR Shireen Ho shireen@spinworkz.com

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Jimmy Chin jimmy@spinworkz.com

ADMIN & CIRCULATION Julie Tan admin@spinworkz.com

You will find these stories and many more within these pages as we strive to entertain and inform you, all at once.

Enjoy the read.

Elissa Nadine Assistant Editor elissa@spinworkz.com

CORRIGENDUM In the January-February issue of Entertainment Technology Asia, there was a misprint of a caption within the article titled “Electro-Voice Through The Eyes Of A Sound Guy” (Page 54).

The microphone shown at the bottom of page 55 should be labelled EV RE320, not to be mistaken for the EV RE20.

MEDIA REP IN NORTH AMERICA Broadcast Media International Michael Mitchell Tel: +1 631 673 0072 mjmitchell@broadcast-media.tv PUBLISHED BY Spinworkz Pte Ltd, 51 Bukit Batok Crescent, #06-10 Unity Centre, Singapore 658077 Tel: (65) 6316 2716 Fax: (65) 63162715 www.spinworkz.com PRINTED BY Stamford Press Pte Ltd

Disclaimer Entertainment Technology Asia is published 6 times a year. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine is to be reproduced, whether mechanical or electronic without the prior written consent of the publisher. Views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editor or the publisher. Unsolicited contributions are welcome but the editor reserves the discretion to use them. Whilst every care is taken to ensure the accuracy and honesty in both editorial and advertising content at press time, the publisher will not be liable for any inaccuracies.

08

NEWS March - April 2015

Riedel Names Cameron O'Neill Director For Asia-Pac ASIA-PACIFIC: Riedel Communications, provider of pioneering real-time video, audio, data, and communications networks, has announced the appointment of Cameron O'Neill as the company's director for the Asia-Pacific region. O'Neill will be based in Tokyo, working to build the Riedel presence there into a robust East Asian hub for Riedel design, sales, support, and service.

"In the next five years, we will be ramping up our focus on Asia," said Thomas Riedel, CEO at Riedel Communications. "Recent additions to our product portfolio make us more competitive in this market, and we're confident that Cameron can guide our regional operations in leveraging these innovations to take advantage of significant new business opportunities."

Photo Credit: Cameron O'Neill

O'Neill served as general manager of Riedel Australia for three years prior to taking on

this new role, and he was a professional user of the company's equipment for the preceding five years. He already has a history working with Riedel's Japanese distributor, Otaritec, and attending Japan's largest trade show, Inter BEE. O'Neill also has traveled extensively in Japan and throughout Southeast Asia, and has cultivated a good working knowledge of the Japanese language.

"Tokyo fills out our trio of Asian hubs, which also include Sydney and Singapore, and gives us a strong position from which to cover the Asia-Pacific region in its entirety," said O'Neill. "I look forward to consolidating our distribution networks across Asia and to supporting both new and existing customers at a much higher level." www.riedel.net

Stephen Dallimore Joins Show Technology AUSTRALIA: Stephen Dallimore has joined the Show Technology team as Business Development Manager. Dallimore comes aboard from ETF where over a period of four years, he was responsible for the rebuilding of ENTECH and the development of his idea of ENTECH CONNECT. "I am excited to have a professional like Stephen join our team, I have the utmost respect for his approach to business and his interpersonal skills are second to none,” commented Emmanuel Ziino, Managing Director of Show Technology. “I feel he will help Show Technology immensely in continuing to provide industry leading sales and service support.”

In his new role, Dallimore plans to use his skills to develop relationships and opportunities in key areas such as hospitality, worship, leisure and the educational sectors.

“One of the hardest things in business is getting the right people in the right spots… and in my dealings with Stephen at ETF he has always impressed me with his integrity, enthusiasm and dedication to tasks,” remarked Mark McInnes, National Sales & Marketing Manager at Show Technology.

“Stephen will be a great asset for us and

we are delighted to have him on our team.

I’m sure he will be able to bring all of the attributes we experienced as a customer of his across to Show Technology.”

“I’ve had the pleasure to work with Show Technology over the last four years and have always been impressed with how they conduct business and also how they work

with their clients,” said Stephen. “This is a fantastic opportunity to not only represent Show Technology, but continue to develop relationships established over the last twenty years and also develop new ones in key areas. I am really excited to become part of this and I can’t wait to rise to the challenge!” www.showtech.com.au

10

NEWS March - April 2015

Revamped Prolyte Group Website INTERNATIONAL: Setting out to create a modern, full functional online platform to offer not only product information, but also inspiration and technical support, Prolyte has announced the launch of its new website.

Apart from detailed and extensive product information, the website offers interactive functionalities like a forum and integrated social media links, like share buttons and a Facebook feed. The Inspiration homepage offers cases and a gallery, where pictures can be downloaded once registered. Visuals and easy navigation make the website very inviting to browse, while in-depth information, such as the technical blogs and videos make visits worthwhile.

Prolyte plans to release more information; an updated symbol library and a multi language platform and more blogs in the near future, so stay tuned to the online platform the company plans for it “to grow into a real tool to help customers build great things”. www.prolyte.com

Martin Professional Flagship P3-300 Now Shipping INTERNATIONAL: As the new flagship model of Martin’s P3 System Controller family, the P3-300 combines the award-winning P3 workflow with a new high-performance video-processing engine that can drive an unprecedented 2,000,000 pixels.

“The Martin P3 System Controllers continue to amaze with their ease of use and ability to drive the full variety of Martin LED Video products,” said Wouter Verlinden, Product Manager for LED Video. “From Conventional LED video panels to creative LED Video elements, the Martin P3 system Controllers drive them all at the same time—something unseen with competing products. I am very happy we have a new and powerful flagship for the P3 family.”

Compatible with all Martin LED video products, the P3-300 is the most versatile and user-friendly controller available on the market. The controller comes packed with a DVI-I video input and two SDI input ports (up to HD and 3G for use with professional

broadcast equipment). A DMX input and a dedicated Ethernet port allow for real-time integration with lighting control protocols (DMX, ArtNET) and industry-leading automation systems.

With an output capacity of over 2,000,000 pixels, the P3-300 eliminates the need for stacking multiple controllers by allowing

more fixtures to be driven from a single controller. All showfiles on the P3-300 are fully compatible with Martin P3 family controllers (P3-100/200/PC). The controller also supports all input resolutions up to full HD, 1920x1080, and mounts in a 2U rack space. www.martin.com

12

NEWS March - April 2015

Christie MicroTiles Now Shipping With 3 Year Warranty INTERNATIONAL: Whether it’s the London Stock Exchange, Stanford University, the Cleveland Museum of Art or numerous other locations including museums, sports facilities, universities and more, Christie MicroTiles continue to be a benchmark in visual display technology and now ship with a three-year warranty effective January 1, 2015.

“Extending the warranty from two to three years demonstrates Christie’s continued confidence in MicroTiles,” said Don Shaw, senior director of product management, Christie. “Christie MicroTiles keep getting better and offer an unprecedented viewing experience.”

Winner of numerous industry awards since launching in November 2009, Christie MicroTiles have been continually improved: • Screens are now manufactured with the latest diffusion materials offering the best brightness and wide viewing angles.

• S310 screens seams reduced to 0.7 mm for

near-seamlessness in a tiled display.

• New lens materials provide superior reliability under demanding conditions.

• Digital Micromirror Devices (DMDs) have an enhanced seal to safeguard against humidity.

• Modified connection points make it easier to fine-tune the alignment of tiles.

• Firmware includes automatic notification of system warnings and events.

• Factory calibration advancements ensure the best possible colour matching between tiles.

With over 50,000 units in nearly 1,000 installations worldwide, Christie MicroTiles are considered a definitive standard for high resolution, direct-view tiled displays. www.christiedigital.com

Dario Choi Named Regional VP of Sales, AsiaPacific @ Harmonic ASIA-PAC: Harmonic, a leader in video delivery infrastructure, has appointed Dario Choi as the company's Regional Vice President Of Sales for Asia-Pacific. Choi takes on this new role with more than two decades of experience in senior management for major multinational businesses in the broadcast and media industries.

"Over his impressive career so far, Dario has consistently demonstrated his ability to analyse a business environment, identify key focus areas, work with team members to develop relevant growth strategies, and execute these strategies with the precision and efficiency necessary to meet or exceed business goals," said George Stromeyer, senior vice president of worldwide sales at Harmonic. "Complemented by strong leadership skills and extensive experience with Asia-Pacific markets, these strengths make Dario a valuable addition to our global sales and service operations."

Choi joins Harmonic after having most recently served as Vice President, Asia-Pacific region, at Avid Technology. He earlier held similar roles at Harris Broadcast, Ericsson, and Tandberg Television. Choi earned a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from the University of Alberta and a Master of Business Administration from the Henry B. Tippie College of Business at the University of Iowa.

"Through the hard work of the entire company, Harmonic has successfully established a very strong brand reputation in the Asia-Pacific region and demonstrated growth in key markets," added Stromeyer.

"With Dario's leadership and the collaboration of the regional sales and services teams, we believe he will be able to successfully drive and grow our business in the region." www.harmonicinc.com

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14

NEWS March - April 2015

Powersoft Kickstarts 2015 With Regional Training Tour “Both trainings conducted in Colombo and Jakarta are First level Courses created

by Powersoft and our goal is to provide in-depth knowledge on how fix failures and allow service engineers or technicians of distributors to be better equipped and able to provide specialized support for theirs customers and end users” explained Mannucci.

In India, Cinetekk offered training to all employees of the company.

ASIA: Powersoft, manufacturer of professional power amplifiers, recently concluded the Powersoft Training Center program with a three-city Asian tour in January, bringing Powersoft First Level Training course to authorized service centers in India, Indonesia and Sri Lanka. Designed in collaboration with Powersoft distributors, the 2-day session was conducted by Marco Mannucci, Powersoft Customer Care Manager.

As part of Powersoft ’s long-term strategy to develop expertise across all markets with brand presence, Powersoft has introduced regular technical training courses for authorized dealers and service centres.

This January, Mannucci visited Sri Lankan distributor, SoundGear in Colombo from the 13th to 14th, Indian distributor, Cinetekk in Chennai from the 14th to 15th and lastly PT Citra Intirama in Indonesia from the 19th to 21st of the month, respectively conducting First Level courses to train technical and backend staff.

Part of the training was focused on the K Series and M Series and in Jakarta, 7 participants attended the session with service manager, Kartana Setijaharsana in support.

In India, Cinetekk offered training to all employees of the company under the direction of Murali Manohar and led

by Mannucci and Swamy K. Varathan, respectively. As the first authorized service centre of Powersoft in South Asia, Powersoft reaches 25 authorized service centres around the world.

Through the technical support offered by authorized service centres, Powersoft is able to resolve every technology-related problem that clients face anywhere in the world. One of the company’s greatest assets is reliability and not just to the products made but also to the people. The company’s customer service department is a channel that gives clients the best assurances to get problems fixed within the shortest turnaround time, and this is a great benefit for customers who have chosen Powersoft amps.

“Having Marco here with us was a real benefit to my team. He gave us proper

training on how to handle the amplifiers intimately and his point of view really stuck with my people. Having worked with several other notable amplifier brands before, our working relationship with Powersoft ’s senior management is special. They are as hands-on as we are and our management style serves both companies well,” said Murali Manohar, Vice President Sales and Marketing Cinetekk, India.

Upon conclusion of the First Level training course, Cinetekk will send employees to Powersoft headquarters in Florence, Italy for the second part of this extended training program this April.

“Generally each course is divided into two sessions, theoretical and practical. In the former, the amplifiers and their main operating methods are explained. In the latter, course members learn to detect the amplifier’s failure board and how to replace it. Through these training courses, Powersoft pays close attention to the quality of our products and assures efficient and effective post-sale service. In addition, these courses are an opportunity for assistance service centers that want to expand their knowhow,” said, Luca Giorgi, Powersoft Marketing and Sales Director.

Having concluded another First Level training program this month in Taiwan, Powersoft plans to offer more educational courses across markets in the Asia Pacific region soon. www.powersoft-audio.com

New Team Member For Martin Professional SINGAPORE: HARMAN’s Martin Professional has welcomed Glenn Loh to Martin’s Asia & Pacific team as Key Account Manager. Loh will be based in Singapore and will report to Alfonso Zarate Takano, Architectural Manager for Martin’s Asia & Pacific team.

“Glenn’s skills make him a valuable asset to the Asia & Pacific team,” said Alfonso. “He brings with him vast marketing experience and we’re confident he’ll seamlessly integrate with both the team and our existing business partners in the region.”

Before joining Martin, Loh worked as a Key Account Manager for Philips Lighting in Singapore. He is highly experienced in account management, project sales and developing and setting up new business models, and he is used to operating across different markets in Asia rewrite.

Commenting on his appointment, Loh stated: “I’m looking forward to establishing strong relationships with Martin’s solid customer base in the region and applying myself and my knowledge to generate impactful results for team Asia & Pacific.”

www.martin.com.sg

16

NEWS March - April 2015

Shure Celebrates Unidyne Microphone’s 75th Anniversary ASIA: As a worldrenowned leader in microphones, Shure Incorporated has designed and manufactured many innovative products for the audio industry over the past nine decades. However, none have had more impact or been more iconic than the Unidyne microphone.

In January 2014, the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) presented Shure with the Milestone Award for the Unidyne technology. Being honoured with the prestigious award puts Shure in the same company as famed inventors: Guglielmo Marconi, Nikola Tesla, Michael Faraday, and Benjamin Franklin.

The honour also puts the invention of the Unidyne technology alongside landmark events such as the invention of the first computer and the Apollo Space program. To mark this achievement, and to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the development and

availability of the 55 Unidyne microphone, Shure has announced a new Limited Edition Unidyne model, the 5575LE Unidyne Limited Edition Cardioid Dynamic Microphone.

A special anniversary version of the iconic 55 Unidyne cardioid dynamic microphone, the 5575LE replicates the original design, with appropriate improvements in durability and sound quality. A sublime recreation for collectors, the serialized limited edition 5575LE features the current Unidyne III cardioid element, the classic large outer grill, vintage badging, and zinc die-cast, with a silver finish desk stand. The microphone comes in an aluminium flight case with 75th anniversary logo branding, and includes two Unidyne photo prints and a certificate of authenticity, featuring a tribute from Shure Chairman Rose L. Shure. Only 5575 pieces of this model will be available worldwide.

“The Unidyne is the most recognized microphone in the world, used by countless performers, including Elvis and Sinatra, as well as numerous contemporary artists” said Scott Sullivan, Senior Director, Global Product Management at Shure Incorporated.

“The 5575LE pays homage to the beloved and classic 55 Unidyne, packaging together

vintage aesthetic and performance features for collectors and performers.”

Introduced in 1939, the 55 Unidyne was swiftly adopted as the microphone of choice for broadcast, public address, recording, and two-way radios. As the popularity of the 55 grew, it found its way into many performance environments that would cement its iconic status and legacy as “the microphone that needs no name.”

To the industry, the 55 Unidyne provided control of feedback and reduction of off-axis ambient sound. In the hands of popular performers and heads of state, the 55 Unidyne became recognized as a familiar cultural presence and a sign of quality.

Its design has come to symbolize what many think of when they hear the word “microphone.”

The Shure 5575LE Unidyne Limited Edition Cardioid Dynamic Microphone will be available in Asia from February 2015 at a suggested retail price of US$399. www.shure.com/asia

Mackie And Audinate Join Forces For Dante Expansion Of DL32R INTERNATIONAL: Mackie, legendary maker of professional audio mixers, loudspeakers, studio monitors and recording equipment, and Audinate, developers of the Dante media networking solution, have joined forces to bring high performance networked audio to the DL32R wirelessly controlled digital live sound mixer with the new DL Dante Expansion Card.

IO patching in the DL32R lets the user route Dante signals to any channel input, and send any of the mixer’s outputs to the Dante network.

The DL32R is controlled completely wirelessly, using the Mackie Master Fader control app for iPad, freeing sound engineers to mix from any location in a venue.

"Dante is the clear choice for AV networking," said Ben Olswang, Mackie Senior Product Manager. "Dante allows the DL32R to connect to hundreds of Dante-enabled audio devices with the seamless interoperability and ease of use that are hallmarks of Mackie products. Dante software is simple and complete, and takes the mystery out of networking while delivering incredible performance."

The new DL Dante Expansion Card provides 32x32 channels of network audio I/O, allowing the DL32R to be connected to any Dante-powered AV network. Flexible

“The Mackie DL32R has had amazing market response, and we are incredibly pleased to add Mackie to the list of our 190 plus manufacturers using Dante,” added Lee

Ellison, CEO of Audinate. “Their products have long been favourites of musicians and sound engineers. The DL32R with Dante brings Mackie sound and usability to AV networking, allowing users to easily deliver audio where they need it, when they need it, with no compromises.”

The DL Dante Expansion Card ships with a license for Dante Virtual Soundcard software, allowing direct recording/ playback of up to 64 channels of audio from any Dante network to a PC or Mac computer.

For more information on the Mackie DL32R 32-Channel Wireless Digital Mixer with iPad Control, visit www.DL32R.mackie.com

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NEWS March - April 2015

Christie On Schedule To Install 100th Vive Audio Sound System INTERNATIONAL: Christie has shared the company's accomplishment to install its 100th Christie Vive Audio cinema sound system.

“Christie made history a year ago when it began shipping the world’s first audio system to feature a unique ribbon driver technology in a single enclosure line array design, purposely crafted and built for entertainment environments,” said Patrick Artiaga, Director, Business Development, Christie.

“Since then, the breadth and depth of the Christie Vive product line-up has been expanded to include a wide-range of speakers, amplifiers, and audio-video processors. As the creative community expands the envelope in delivering the most realistic audio experience possible to moviegoers, we’ve developed these Christie Vive audio products specifically to help production teams achieve their creative objectives and exhibitors meet performance challenges,” added Artiaga.

Designed to support all of the leading cinema audio formats including Dolby Atmos, 7.1 and 5.1 surround sound and Auro 11.1, Christie Vive Audio can be configured to provide

audio solutions for any cinema space, from post production studios and screening rooms to traditional auditoriums and premium large formats cinemas. Exhibitors such as Cinemex (Mexico), Wanda Cinemas (China), New Farm Cinemas (Australia), and Southern Theatres (United States) have chosen Vive.

Additionally, many exhibitors embracing the Dolby Cinema program will use Christie Vive, beginning with the first Dolby Cinema install at the newly-constructed JT Eindhoven cineplex in the Netherlands, which opened in December 2014.

“We’re proud of our tradition of bringing the latest developments in audio technology to our Southern Theatres and Movie Tavern guests with the opening of the Southern Grand 14 Esplanade in Kenner, LA and Movie Tavern Northshore in Covington, La.,” said Ron Krueger II, President and Chief Operating Officer, Southern Theatres. “We’re the first theatre to power every auditorium with Christie Vive Audio, a revolutionary leap in cinema loudspeaker design that provides an improved sound experience for every guest in every seat in the house, and we look forward to continuing this relationship with our plans

in 2015 starting with the Movie Tavern Baton Rouge in Baton Rouge, LA.” “Over the past year, we’ve raised the bar in next-generation audio technology and implementation, giving exhibitors a true competitive edge that their customers can appreciate,” noted Artiaga.

The complete Christie Vive Audio solution includes ceiling surrounds, wall surrounds, and screen channel speakers, as well as subwoofers, and Class D amplifiers. www.viveaudio.com

HARMAN’s Crown Ships XLi Series INTERNATIONAL: At NAMM 2015, HARMAN’s Crown announced the shipping of XLi Series, four models that set a new standard for entry-level professional grade amplifiers. The new XLi3500, XLi2500, XLi1500 and XLi800 are powerful, rugged and reliable and are well suited for a wide variety of live and installed sound applications.

The Crown XLi3500, XLi2500, XLi1500 and XLi800 deliver 1,000, 500, 330 and 200 Watts per channel respectively (into 8 ohms; 2,700, 1,500, 900 and 600 watts in bridged mode into 8 ohms). All models feature user-selectable input sensitivity to accommodate a variety of program sources

that have low output signals and include balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs. XLi can be operated in stereo, parallel or bridgedmono mode and provides binding post and speakON output connectors to facilitate use with virtually any type of passive PA speakers.

All four amplifiers feature front panel level controls, signal presence, and clip and fault LED indicators. Like all Crown power amps, XLi Series models provide comprehensive protection against shorts, no-load conditions, and power on/off thumps. The amplifiers are also shielded against radio frequency interference to keep the sound quality pure, even in situations with a great deal of wireless activity.

“Our XLi Series power amps bring the exceptional sound quality and bulletproof construction Crown is known for to more attractive price points,” said Craig Lambrecht, Business Segment Manager, Crown Audio. “They’re ideal for musicians, bands, DJs, dance clubs, bars, houses of worship and other situations where affordability is important, without compromising on performance or reliability.”

All Crown XLi amplifiers feature a one-year, no-fault, fully transferable warranty. www.harman.com

NEWS March - April 2015

19

The Ultimate Party Run With SGM Ltd. supplied P-5 wash lights from SGM, adding brightness and intensity to the party zone. Technical Director from Showmakers, Louis Wong informed, “These lightweight, versatile and waterproof luminaires made working outdoors a breeze.”

The P-5 wash lights were placed all around the main stage in the crowded dance area, which accommodated 18,000 people over the Louis Wong (Showmakers Pte Ltd) with Hanslee Lim (SGM) two nights, and Louis SINGAPORE: ILLUMI RUN is the first event Wong reported positive of its kind in Asia. Taking place in Singapore, feedback from an exhilarating outdoor party participants are splashed with ILLUMI glow experience. water as they set out on their race route, passing through different colourful glowing With its 44 x RGBW 10W LEDs, the P-5 zones before ending up at the finish line. offers an output of 23,500 lumens in a small An after-party dance area then features a physical footprint. With its robust IP65-rated massive assembly of DJs. chassis, the P-5 may have a major impact on Showmakers’ future projects. “We anticipate For the recently held second consecutive run, many requests for the P-5 at outdoor fashion event production house Showmakers Pte. shows and concerts,” predicted Wong. “Most

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of our events are in open air, so the P-5 is a very suitable product for all our applications.” sgmlight.com

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#UKC 2CEKſE Analog Way Pte Ltd - Singapore Phone: +65 6292 5800

Email : sales@analogwayasia.com

www.analogway.com

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NEWS March - April 2015

Abacus Dubai Counts On Robe design services or work with the client’s own design team and concepts – depending on the set-up.

They assessed all the options carefully before choosing Robe, and also sought advice from other industry professionals, as committing to a moving light brand was a big move.

“Robe has an excellent reputation, the price and the terms are good, and we know that we have superb service and support from the Robe Middle East operation,” explained Vimal.

(L-R) Nidheesh Hari (Abacus’ Director of Sales), Elie Battah (General Manager, Robe Middle East) and Vimal Kumar, Owner & Founder of Abacus

DUBAI: Founded in 2010, by Vimal Kumar, Abacus is an equipment rental and technical production company based in Dubai which is very active within the live events scene in the country.

Its lighting division was started two years ago with an immediate investment in Robe moving lights with the purchase of 16 x MMX Spots and 16 x LEDWash 1200s. Before Abacus, Vimal worked on other business ventures in Dubai – he’s been a resident for 11 years - and previous to that, ran a portfolio of businesses in Bangalore, India.

It was his astute entrepreneurial eye that spotted a need for efficient, high-quality,

flexible production and technology based solutions providers in the UAE, and so he launched Abacus. “Dubai is a very business friendly environment,” he commented. It was a smart move, as – in spite of the obvious economic challenges back in 2009 - today they are busy and still growing with 35 full time employees covering around 300 events throughout the ‘season’, and with a raft of satisfied clients.

Director of Sales, Nidheesh Hari explained that Abacus provides full production for conferences, exhibitions, product launches – large and small - award ceremonies, and small to medium music concerts, offering including lighting, audio and video. They offer

The whole company is delighted with the decision. The crew and technicians all love working with the fixtures, and having the Robe technology on-board means that they can add great creative lighting to any project.

“The MMX Spots and the LEDWashes are very bright and so small – four units are enough to make any reasonably sized room look beautiful and atmospheric,” enthused Nidheesh.

Recent events have included lighting the Abu Dhabi Airport Authority Gala Dinner at the Aloft Hotel in the city; an awards summit event for HP in the Madinat Jumeirah Arena, Dubai, and a gala dinner for Fujitsu at Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai.

Abacus has also recently made major new purchases of d&b audio, and more lighting investments are planned in the next year. www.robe.cz

Extended NEXT-proaudio Warranty INTERNATIONAL: From January 2015, NEXT-proaudio has set a new period of warranty on all speaker systems from the standard two-year warranty to five years.

our customers an additional argument to trust on the reliability of our products”, said Andre Correia, NEXT-proaudio’s assistant manager.

To have the five year warranty, the NEXTproaudio product must be purchased from an authorized dealer, distributor or representative.

“The decision to extend the warranty period reflects our confidence in the quality of NEXT-proaudio and this gives

The NEXT-proaudio warranty on the electronic products (such as power amplifiers, digital signal processors, …) remains in effect for two year from the date of purchase.

www.next-proaudio.com

NEWS March - April 2015

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digicom To Represent Dan Dugan Sound Design JAPAN: Dan Dugan Sound Design Inc. has appointed digicom, located in Nagoya, Japan as the company’s exclusive distributor for the country. “digicom is the perfect choice for selling Dugan products into Japan,” said Dan Dugan, President and CEO. “Their knowledge of the live sound and broadcast industries, and the complementary products they sell, will ensure the best support of the Dugan line to the discerning Japanese market.”

Dan Dugan Sound Design, now in its 47th year, has been designing automatic microphone mixing technology since the late 1960s. Technologies invented by Dan Dugan include the Dugan Speech System, which automatically manages any number of live microphones in unscripted talking situations, the Dugan Music System, which offers automatic downward expansion to help reduce feedback and noise pick-up in live performances, and Dugan Gain Limiting,

which provides a continuous, stepless, number-of-open-microphones master gain adjusting system.

All three technologies provide fast, transparent cross-fades without upcutting, choppy sound or shifts in background noise.

Transitions between talkers are smooth and consistent no matter how many mics are open. Dugan products are used in broadcast talk shows, corporate meetings, political events, educational settings, live theatre and other applications. The products are not mixers in themselves; rather, they are accessories to sound mixing consoles.

Sound and Broadcast industries. Along with Dugan automatic mixing controllers, other products in the digicom line include control systems (manufactured by digicom), digital distribution systems from Atterotech; personal monitor systems and network audio from Pivitec; fiber optic systems from Fiberplex Technologies llc and Connex; Dante breakout systems from Four Audio; locking power cables from Schaffner and Ethernet switching products from Luminex.

The “Dugans” patch into the input insert points of a mixing console, giving the board operator all of the features of the board such as EQ and sends along with automatic mixing.

“We are pleased to represent Dan Dugan Sound Design,” said Haruo Abe, CEO of digicom. “As the inventor of the automatic microphone mixer, Dugan has the most experience of anyone in this field, and his company’s products are widely respected.”

Operating both as a manufacturer and distributor/installer, digicom provides quality products and services to the Live

www.dandugan.com

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NEWS March - April 2015

New Sennheiser RF Experts In Action

The New Sennheiser Rf experts with their mentors

INDIA: Nine months of hard work have paid off: a total of 19 wireless professionals from the worldwide Sennheiser organisation have been awarded the coveted RF Expert certificate. The last of three on-site training sessions took place in Delhi, and in the meantime the new RF experts have been in action all over the world to provide support for Sennheiser customers and partners in their projects.

“The system of extensive online training and close supervision by mentors combined with several weeks of on-site training has proven itself,” said Kirsten Wessendorf, Manager Sennheiser Sound Academy, summarising the training course. Meanwhile, some of the new RF experts have already completed their first major projects.

Ryan Burr from Sennheiser Middle East provided support for his client Doummar – Q2 Advanced Technology in planning the conference and entertainment facilities for the Sheraton Hotel and Conference Centre

(L-R)Eric Denise (Global Sales Vice President APAC) presented Vincent Tilgenkamp with the Outstanding Achievement Award with Volker Schmitt (Director Product Lifecycle Management Professional) and Tilgenkamps' mentor, Sam Davison.

in Doha (Qatar). This included carrying out a thorough analysis of the wireless conditions at the location, planning the conference/ interpreting systems and the wireless microphone channels, coordinating all wireless frequencies and programming and testing the systems on site.

“This project is simply gigantic. Five conference rooms are equipped with ADN-W wireless conference systems with a total of 380 delegate units, while a further six have SR 2020/HDE 2020 interpreting systems with a total of 4,000 receivers. 150 channels of wireless microphones, mostly 5000/3000 systems, are used in the event venues. One room alone has 72 channels! It’s the largest single project that Sennheiser Middle East has ever worked on, and my further training as an RF expert came just at the right time for me,” said Ryan Burr.

Vincent Tilgenkamp from Sennheiser Benelux has also earned the right to call himself an RF expert. In fact, he even achieved top results in all tasks and was presented with an Outstanding Achievement Award. He can also look back on a number of successful projects, including the hit TV show “Utopia”, devised by John de Mol and produced by Talpa, in which he supported the multimedia company Dutchview by providing a special wireless solution. Dutchview was faced with the daunting challenge of picking up the wireless microphone signals from the reality show participants over an area of 12,500 square metres. Vincent Tilgenkamp and his team succeeded in covering this vast area with a single rack of receivers and a number of antenna distribution combiners that were custom-built for Utopia.

Tilgenkamp was delighted with the RF expert course: “I particularly liked the on-site training sessions where we had to solve tricky problems. Our mentors put in a lot of effort to manipulate the equipment, introduce all sorts of RF interference and additionally, put us under time pressure. For example, they would invite a big audience to a concert and ask us to get the band miked and the RF wireless systems running in virtually no time at all! In the end, of course, the audience was let in on time and enjoyed a top-quality gig.” www.sennheiser.com

Maestro Invests In Showline SAUDI ARABIA: An array of Showline's LED luminaires have lit the launch of a national Saudi employment initiative following Riyadh-based event producer Maestro's investment in Showline stock.

The award-winning company purchased Showline SL BAND 300 RGBW, SL STRIP 400 (both RGBW and Tunable White) SL BAR 520 and SL BAR 620 luminaires. The units were employed to deliver lighting for the function, which was attended by members of the ministry, members of the Shoura Council and top executives from the companies involved in the scheme.

"We came across the Showline products at Prolight and Sound last year, and were extremely impressed," said Project Manager Nawal El Masri. "We decided to purchase them as the quality was so high - the standard we offer our clients."

“The Showline products have added great value to our arsenal," continued El Masri.

"They're versatile, reliable and the inbuilt effects are ideal for delivering stunning looks quickly, making our events extra special."

The SL BAR 520 and 620 luminaires are highly flexible tools, enabling designers to employ

them in any orientation and configuration.

The SL BAND 300 is a compact colour mixing luminaire, providing a vibrant wash of colour wherever needed, with a 10-degree angle and hanging hardware so it can be installed at an event with ease. Similarly the SL STRIP 400 provides blasts of colour in multiple applications and is designed with cable management capabilities for clean cabling and easy set up. www.maestroevent.com www.philips.com

NEWS March - April 2015

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3rd coolux Connect Conference An International Success INTERNATIONAL: The third coolux connect conference, which was held in January at the Vulkanhalle in Cologne, was attended by more than 220 AV professionals from 25 countries.

Designers, programmers, content creators and rental specialists spent two full days in Cologne, immersing themselves in the world of coolux Pandoras Box technology and coolux customer showcases.

Speakers included theatre designers, award winning broadcast specialists, as well as live production and corporate presentation experts. One of the most eagerly anticipated topics surrounding this year’s conference was without doubt the recent news that Christie Digital Systems had acquired coolux GmbH. coolux CEO Jan Huewel, who will report to Jennifer Smith in his new position of Senior Director, Processing Solutions, was happy to be able to personally address so many international customers less than 48 hours

after the official press release regarding the acquisition had been publicised.

"The timing of our third coolux connect conference was a great coincidence.

Obviously we are looking forward to answering all possible questions, but at the same time it was wonderful to be able to meet so many of our international customers right after the acquisition had been announced. All our activities are continuing as normal. This new situation means however, that we will be able to create a synergy between the two companies that will enable us to develop more effective products more rapidly. "

Digital Systems, Burmester Event- und Medientechnik, Technocrane, Meyer Sound, Lightpower, zweiB, publitec and Loop Light.

Dale Miller, Executive Vice President, Global Sales, was also present at the connect conference and welcomed the coolux community on behalf of Christie Digital Systems.

The coolux connect conference is a biennual event aimed at anyone with an interest in the latest developments of the multi award winning coolux Pandoras Box and Christie product families.

The following companies supported the extremely popular networking event: Christie

www.coolux.de www.christiedigital.com

Smart speakers for clever people From touring sound to fixed installations, audio professionals spec NEXO for the high levels of performance and reliability that come only from a truly innovative approach to speaker system design.

Find out more at www.nexo.fr

www.nexo.fr

Thinking. Inside the box.

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NEWS March - April 2015

Adamson Launches Blueprint AV Software Suite to the operability and ease-of-use of the software, so we can’t wait to let the audio industry really see what it can do.”

INTERNATIONAL: Blueprint AV is a multi-use predictive software suite from Adamson that operates both in the 2D and 3D realm.

Designed to provide Adamson clients with a user-defined level of detail, the software delivers extreme precision in any operating mode.

After extensive beta testing with key network partners, Adamson is releasing Blueprint AV via a licensing system that will allow end users to distribute a pre-determined number of copies to their team of technicians.

“The precision of the software has been proven in the field and we’re very excited to be able to offer the complete software package to the public,” said James Oliver, Director of Marketing and Sales for Adamson.

“We have had very positive feedback as

Expanding on the Adamson Shooter software, Blueprint AV allows users to easily plan their system design. System designers and technicians can build a simple or very complex listening area, hang multiple arrays, simulate response with a variety of acoustic predictive tools, and provide a detailed and accurate rigging plot that can be exported to DXF files for easy transfer to the rigging team.

Users can choose the quick and effective 2D mode to easily determine optimal splay settings for their arrays within their space, or they can opt for the highly detailed 3D mode, which allows for a wide variety of polygonal shapes to easily and accurately build complex spaces. The software also provides a variety of simulation options.

“The level of complexity is totally userdefinable. Whether using the software to get your array hung in a limited amount of time, or creating an extremely fine-tuned design for installations and high-profile events, the scalability of the software is what really makes Blueprint shine,” said Brian Fraser, Applications Engineer for Adamson.

Multiple simulation options exist including SPL measurements, which can be measured using standard and proprietary weighting curves, as well as standard 1/3 octave frequencies or a full range average. Delay, directivity and virtual microphone responses can also be easily calculated. A vertical SPL option allows the user to see an array’s vertical SPL response, accurately measuring the initial coverage, to the amount of coverage delivered to the extreme back of the intended listening area.

The software comes pre-loaded with acoustic data from Adamson’s complete line array product range, with plans to add all point source products in the near future.

All turnkey system purchases will come with a Blueprint AV license, while interested users can obtain a Personal Account license allowing for 2 installations for $159.99 USD, or a Corporate Account license allowing for 6 installations for $359.99 USD. Licenses can be obtained through the Adamson website at www.adamsonsystems. com or by inquiring through the dedicated support email blueprint@adamsonsystems. com.

Fairlight Teams Up With Auro Technologies AUSTRALIA: Fairlight, the Australian pioneer in designing high-end live and post production systems for audio, video recorders, and cutting edge universal editing controllers, will now implement native Auro-3D mixing into its state-ofthe-art products.

The Auro-Codec will be integrated in Fairlight’s newest platform for immersive and object-oriented 3D Sound Production, the 3D Audio Workspace (3DAW).

3DAW adds immersive sound capability to existing digital audio workstations, whilst remaining fully compatible with established workflows.

According to Tino Fibaek, Fairlight’s CTO, "3DAW is one of the most innovative products we have launched in years and we are very excited about the integration of Auro-3D. We now support mixing, monitoring, authoring, and reviewing of Auro-3D deliverables, in both the Auro 11.1 and Auro 13.1 unique 3-layered speaker layouts. We look forward to working with Auro Technologies in the future as they have a mature and established delivery format, and we have a matching 3D production platform."

"As a long-time big fan of Fairlight products for music production and postproduction, I am very delighted to see the integration of our Auro-3D technology," said Wilfried Van Baelen, CEO of Auro Technologies. "We, at Auro Technologies, are thrilled to be able to give the Fairlight users easy tools to add a completely new dimension in sound providing creative possibilities as never seen before. The final and missing dimension of Height has finally arrived after 150 years of recording and reproduction of sound!"

NEWS March - April 2015

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Visual Unity To Bring VoD To Viewers In India Visual Unity will also help build a complex VoD portal that will contain hundreds of “parallel cinema” films alongside more conventional Bollywood fare. This cloudbased service will allow the NFDC to publish its content online, thus alleviating the need to build an expensive, in-house and resource-intensive media library.

“Monetization is not just about selling content – it is about building business awareness and a communication strategy around it,” said Vikramjit Roy, General Manager of NFDC. “We expect that by using vuMedia’s proven technology the NFDC will be able to deliver a cutting-edge viewing experience to our audiences on any screen or connected device, which in turn will contribute to the expansion of both domestic and global appreciation of independent Indian cinema.” www.visualunity.com INDIA: Leading OTT solutions provider, Visual Unity has been commissioned to help India’s National Film Development Corporation deliver a complete Video on Demand (VoD) service.

Established in 1975 to encourage high-quality Indian cinema, the NFDC plans to expand its viewership around the world by distributing their films via VoD under its “Cinemas of India” label (currently only available on YouTube). This revolutionary measure will enable a steadily increasing number of fans to enjoy these films on any screen or device.

Visual Unity will provide the NFDC with the technology it needs to deliver this eagerly anticipated new service. The technical infrastructure to be used is based on Visual Unity’s award-winning vuMedia integrated content management and delivery platform which allows broadcasters to manage, monetize and monitor multiscreen delivery with ease and efficiency.

Tomas Petru, CEO of Visual Unity, said: “Visual Unity won this contract on the basis of our proven expertise in multiscreen integration. With over 20 years’ experience in delivering and technically supporting linear to multiscreen solutions, we were able to demonstrate to the NFDC that we have successfully handled similar VoD projects for customers like Calinos Entertainment in Turkey, CME in Central Europe and TopFun in the Czech Republic.”

Visual Unity’s vuMedia platform supports comprehensive VoD services and integrates seamlessly with billing and CRM processes. For this particular project, Visual Unity will provide a content management system with analytics, GUI and API access, links hashing, software to play back and control video content on the web, as well as support for mobile devices with monetization from various business models.

26 The

DNA026 Array Truss System

NEWS March - April 2015

Leading S.E.A Rental Houses Commit To HARMAN’s Martin Professional S.E.A: HARMAN’s Martin Professional has announced the availability of Martin’s MAC Viper family is now widely available throughout Southeast Asia via several of the region’s largest rental houses.

Apply to Hanging System of 5” and 6.5” Line Array

Singapore-based companies CSP Production, Trio AV and Highlight Systems as well as Malaysia-based Orange Events have added more than 170 x MAC Viper fixtures to their portfolios, putting the latest in intelligent lighting at the fingertips of lighting designers throughout the region.

Ideal for a wide variety of events and entertainment productions, Martin’s MAC Viper family is a complete series of high-performance moving head light fixtures that features intense light output and a slender body for fast movements. The MAC Viper family includes the award-winning MAC Viper Profile as well as the MAC Viper AirFX, Wash, Beam, Quadray and Performance fixtures.

Flightcase packing for convenient transportation

Singapore’s Trio AV has been working with Martin Professional for more than 15 years, providing regular support for regional trade shows, government and corporate conferences and a host of other events. “When Trio began its lighting department 15 years ago we invested in Martin products and have never looked back since,” said John Tang, Business Owner of Trio AV. “Our relationship with Martin has never faltered due to strong after sales service and support and persistent commitment to innovation.”

Tang added that the benefits Martin’s MAC Viper Performance will provide for clients is yet another reason Trio AV is proud to be a premium user of Martin equipment. “The MAC Viper was the ideal upgrade for us in terms

of size and performance,” he said.

“Most importantly the series has lower power consumption with higher lumen output, and a better optical system. Its ruggedness has also helped to keep up with Trio's extensive touring projects all over Asia.”

Also based in Singapore, Highlight Systems is a multi-discipline and independent lighting design company that provides lighting solutions for a vast range of markets including architectural, broadcast, entertainment productions, and live and special events. Highlight first began working with Martin equipment more than eight years ago and has now added Martin’s MAC Viper Profile as well as 20 MAC Viper Performances to its offerings.

“From the time we first began using the MAC 700 series to today, the durability, robustness and light output of Martin fixtures have never disappointed us,” said Roy Chooi, Founder and Principal Lighting Consultant, Highlight Systems.

“Every product Martin delivers is thoroughly researched to ensure maximum ROI for their customers and the MAC Viper series is no different,” said Chooi. “The versatility of the Viper’s design allows us to use the fixtures for a wide-range of business disciplines from rock concerts and theatre productions to corporate events and live broadcasts. The gobo selection, colors, effects and light output are outstanding. From a cost and efficiency perspective, the fact that we can use a single fixture series across a wide range of applications is key for us when adding to our inventory.”

In addition, CSP Productions has added the MAC Viper AirFX to its inventory, while Orange Events has updated its offerings with the MAC Viper Profile. www.martin.com

NEWS March - April 2015

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Danny Rose Brings ‘Play Me!’ To Guangzhou International Light Festival Wang Ruixiang, Festival Director said: “We were delighted to welcome Danny Rose as a guest artist. Play Me! masters a simple and interactive urban interpretation of Guangzhou and the charm of Guangfu culture enabling local people to interact with the art. It has proved to be extremely popular.”

Images By: Danny Rose

CHINA: In what was the largest ever visual and lighting spectacular witnessed by an audience of eight million at the fourth annual Guangzhou International Light Festival, French multimedia artists, Danny Rose provided their Play Me! interactive and immersive 3D architectural projection mapping experience.

Play Me! transformed the façade of a traditional style Cantonese Qilong building constructed for the Festival and centred on a kilometre long esplanade in the Flower City, the largest public space in Guangzhou, in Guangdong province, South China.

This was the first year that Danny Rose has presented their artwork at the Guangzhou International Light Festival. Danny Rose specialises in interactive multimedia and architectural projection mapping content and services to light festivals globally, including the multi-award winning Vivid Sydney.

“The first day of the event welcomed over a million visitors. The entire public space in front of Play Me! was packed out by excited audiences,” said Sergio Carrubba, director and designer of Danny Rose, the design team for this project. “A festival highlight, Play Me! from Danny Rose incorporated local Canton themed visual and interactive elements through a series of massive ‘musical sculptures.”

“Each ‘sculpture’ represented a family of musical instruments, which the audience ‘play’ in real-time just using hands and body.

The audience was able to change colour, light shape and sound in front of festival-goers.”

Ultra high-resolution projectors were used to project content onto the custom-built façade of a traditional Qilong building.

Play Me! was made possible using powerful 3D real-time software and rendering engine that manages interactivity and high-quality interactive graphics. A Microsoft Kinect motion capture system intercepted the body's movements. Danny Rose custom created a special software that allowed for the audience to interact with Play Me! just using a combination of hand and body movements.

The event was themed ‘Crossover + Canton’ that took visitors on a journey through traditional to modern themes. It is the largest light festival in China and is organized by Ruifeng Culture and Communication Company and presented by The People’s Government of Guangzhou Municipality.

Synonymous with Cantonese culture, the projection surface for Play Me! was constructed for the Festival and painted white to become a perfect video projection surface. It was based around a Guangzhou Qilou or arcade style building. These narrow buildings are traditionally narrow and three or four storied. A protruding structure or arcade has a balcony with intricately carved ceilings that usually faces a street.

The Guangzhou Qilou buildings became popular in the early 1930s, which were rebuilt from the traditional Cantonese residential buildings, locally known as the Bamboo Tube House or ‘Zhutong Wu’. www.dannyrose.fr

Cédric Péri, 3D designer and motion designer interviewed by Chinese Media

Danny Rose brings ‘Play Me!’ to Guangzhou International Light Festival

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NEWS March - April 2015

Ayrton IntelliPix-R Makes Japan’s Best Hits Kayousai 2014 JAPAN: Ayrton’s IntelliPix-R LED panels played a prominent role in the spectacular lighting design at the annual Japanese music show, Best Hits Kayousai 2014. The show recognizes some of Japan’s most popular artists of the year and took place in November at the Festival Hall, Osaka.

It was broadcast live on the NNN network with over 18 acts, including Exile Tribe and May J, performing during the two-hour show.

Ayrton’s Japanese distributor, First Engineering Japan, supplied 120 IntelliPix-R panels to their client, Heart-S, who used the static panels to surround the stage and performers with beams of intense light.

IntelliPix-R is a modular beam projection panel of 25 x independently controllable 4.5° LED emitters arranged in a 5 x 5 array which project graphics and media far into the air. Panels can be connected together to form a semi-transparent wall, screen or ceiling or be placed under specially designed glass using its dedicated floor installation kit to create an immensely strong projection floor that can wrap a performer in dynamic columns of light.

Ayrton IntelliPix-R is suitable for indoor or outdoor use.

For the glittering television show, 80 x IntelliPix-R panels were positioned centre stage behind a broad set of access steps to provide dramatic backlight while 22 more were arrayed in two columns stage left and right to project out into the audience.

Heart-S and the designers from the television station also took advantage of IntelliPix-R’s dedicated floor kit to install a group of 32 panels the stage itself to form a performance area awash with colour and texture.

Heart-S used a GreenHippo Hippotizer media server to map effects to the Intellipix-R fixtures and triggered some of IntelliPix-R’s on-board effects from a GrandMA2 console.

“We were looking to create an original, unique production using hardware that stands out from the others,” said Heart-S’ Tomoki Mitsunaka. “Intellipix-R became our fixture of choice because of its ability to deliver high powered beam effects from the floor, and its versatile controllability with the video elements and other diverse lighting hardware.”

The ability of IntelliPix-R to stand out against the strong video and lighting elements of the show was an important factor. However, the units proved so powerful that they chose to run them at only 10% of their full intensity to keep them within the bounds of the broadcast cameras capabilities.

“IntelliPix-R is unique in its ability to form walls of high-powered LED beams and these were put to full use during Best Hits Kayousai 2014,” said Mitsunaka.

“The fixtures also proved very robust and reliable, even surviving an accidental fall without any damage!”

“We are very satisfied with the performance of the Ayrton fixtures and will continue to work hard to market the products,” said First Engineering Japan’s Yuki Yoshida. www.ayrton.eu

NEWS March - April 2015

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Hexogon Solution Expands Fleet With World’s Largest Purchase Of Christie Projectors

SINGAPORE: Hexogon Solution, a Christie partner based in Singapore, has set itself apart from the competition by adding 80 units of the Christie Boxer 4K30 and 15 units of the Christie Roadie 4K45 3DLP projectors to its impressive fleet of Christie projectors to further boost its rental staging capabilities.

This acquisition of 80 Christie Boxer 4K30s, the largest-ever single purchase in the world to date by a rental staging company, is poised to raise Hexogon Solution’s profile as one of the most advanced Christie rental partners in South-East Asia. The newly-purchased Boxers and Roadie 4K45s will be used for the company’s various large scale outdoor events scheduled to take place in Singapore and the region.

Hexogon Solution also invested in the award-winning Pandoras Box product family from coolux, which was acquired by Christie in January 2015, to deliver impactful 3D visualization and compositing solutions through the Christie Boxer 4K30 projectors.

Hexogon Solution’s purchase of the Pandoras Box media system is the largest ever for coolux products in Southeast Asia. The Boxer 4K30-Pandoras Box combo enables the rental staging firm to create both continuous and non-continuous digital canvases, and manage the content that flows onto these canvases.

“We are thrilled to be the first rental staging company in Asia to be equipped with Christie’s latest and most advanced visual solutions that will provide us with

the competitive edge,” said Adrian Goh, Managing Director, Hexogon Solution. “With our acquisition of the Christie Boxer 4K30, Christie Roadie 4K45 and Pandoras Box media system, we’ll be capable of delivering even more exciting projection mapping contents and effects for our clients in the region. As a longtime user of Christie products, I’m confident that these new and innovative visual solutions will continue to offer the high performance and reliability that we can depend on.”

Ken Wheatley, Director of Sales, Christie Asia Pacific, commented, “We are proud to support Hexogon Solution’s investment in all of Christie’s products, most notably the Christie Boxer 4K30 and Roadie 4K45 family – two of our newest projectors with a high lumen level and high resolution – which fully meet the company’s need to bring a myriad of visuals to life.”

for delivering a stunning projection mapping show on the façade of the famous Fullerton Hotel and the iconic Merlion Statue during the Marina Bay Singapore Countdown 2015 event on 31 December 2014. The extravaganza, which officially kicked off celebrations to commemorate Singapore’s golden jubilee, set a new record for the largest number of Christie projectors ever deployed for an event staged in Singapore to date.

Weighing in at less than 150lbs (68kg), Christie Boxer 4K30 is a 30,000 lumen, high-resolution, projector designed for high impact live events. Boasting 4K (4096 by 2160) native resolution and 3DLP® quality, and built-in Christie TruLife image processing to provide the highest bit depth and fastest frame rate, the Boxer is easy to use and offers optimum feed and performance flexibility.

Lin Yu, Vice-President, Christie Asia Pacific, added, “We’re proud to have an experienced rental staging partner like Hexogon Solution on our side for years, and acquiring our latest and cutting-edge solutions with confidence.

With its years of expertise in staging outdoor events, we look forward to seeing the projectors and Pandoras Box media systems deliver fascinating visuals that create memorable shared experiences.”

The Christie Roadie 4K45, introduced in November 2014, is the brightest lampilluminated projector on the market.

Rugged, reliable, and road tested, the 45,000 lumen Christie 4K45 offers a higher level of image brightness for rental stagers to use in concerts, sports events, themed entertainment, conventions, live events, annual meetings, casinos, and more. Similar to the Boxer 4K30, it features Christie TruLife for the clearest, most true-to-life image quality.

Hexogon Solution has used Christie’s visual solutions in a number of prominent largescale events in Singapore. It was responsible

www.christiedigital.com

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NEWS March - April 2015

SGM Fixtures Illuminate Indonesian TV

INDONESIA: No fewer than 40 x SGM P-5 TW (tunable white wash lights) and 40 x Q-7 W (white flood, blind and strobe), fitted with 8-way Barndoors and Accessory Holders, were recently acquired as part of the light inventory for the Indonesian D’Six Studio, which is owned and operated by PT. Prima Global Indomedia.

Technical & Operations Director of D’Six Studios, Lemmy Ibrahim said, “I carried out intensive research online and I discovered SGM’s LED products.” He then contacted SGM’s Indonesian distributor Goshen Electronics, and SGM’s Area Sales Manager Hanslee Lim from SGM A/S conducted a demo with the P-5 TW at Goshen’s office. “I was very impressed by the small size, along with the bright light output of the P-5 TW during the demo,”Ibrahim stated. He immediately arranged for another demo at the TRANS TV studio, who had requested the use of D’Six studio for one of their programmes.

Equally impressed by the demo, they quickly agreed to use the SGM fixtures for their programme.

“The lighting designers of TRANS TV were very surprised that the lumens output

was more than double – 2.4 times brighter – than the LED Fresnel fixtures that they previously used. Due to the high output, this actually meant that they were able to scale down the amount of fixtures to half, so that only 20 P-5 TW and 20 Q-7 W were necessary for their programme,” Ibrahim explains. He continued: “As an added bonus, the total power consumption of the studio is also much lower than the initial calculations. Consequently, there will be huge savings on our monthly electrical bills.”

D’Six Studio is currently renting out their facilities for TRANS TV’s popular TV quiz SIAPA DIA. TRANS TV designers were so impressed by the performance of the SGM units that they have added a rental of 8 P-5 TW and 10 Q-7 W for another popular TV quiz, HITAM PUTIH/My Games. The trend soon transmitted to another TV station, TV One, whose fascination with the brightness of the SGM lights resulted in the deployment of 12 P-5 TW and 10 Q-7 W for their hit programme, GESTURE, ROUNDTABLE and RESPOND. Thus, the acquisition of the 80 x SGM fixtures has proved hugely successful. “We have now rented out our entire inventory of SGM lights and are looking into further expanding our SGM product range during the next couple of months,” concluded an enthusiastic Lemmy Ibrahim. sgmlight.com

32

ENNOVATIONS March - April 2015

Midas: M32R / M32C The M32R takes the elements crucial to our PRO Series console range and puts them into the hands of new Midas digital customers at an exceptional price point. The M32C puts the processing and channel/bus count of the M32 console into a 1U solution! Installers, Corporate A/V and those desiring the utmost in compact portability now have a Midas solution.”

• • • • • • •

25 time-aligned and phase-coherent mix buses AES50 networking allows up to 96 inputs / 96 outputs 40 bit floating point digital signal processing 8 DCA and 6 mute groups Open architecture allows for future 96 kHz operation 8 digital signal processing effects engines 32 x 32 channel USB 2.0 audio interface

- Graham Rowlands, Music Group Vice President of Global Sales, Professional Division

www.midasconsoles.com

M32C

M32R

• 40-input channel, 25-bus, 1U rackmountable digital mixing core for Live/ Installed Sound • Built-in expansion port for audio interface cards or digital networking bridges • MIDI In/Out for remote scene recall or controlling other MIDI equipment

• Up to 40 simultaneous input channels for Live Sound/ Studio Recording • 16 x MIDAS PRO microphone preamplifiers • 192 kHz ADC and DAC converters • 17 x MIDAS PRO motorised 100 mm faders • Daylight viewable 5” full colour TFT display screen

PR Lighting: XRLED 1200 Spot • • • • • • • • •

Source: 1 x 800W LED (RGB 3 in 1) RGB colour mixing system with macro Colour Temperature: 2700K~10000K linearly adjustable Beam: 11°~53° linearly adjustable zoom 6 rotating gobos(at high speed and replaceable) +8 fixed gobos(replaceable) Linearly adjustable dimmer from 0-100% Linearly adjustable iris from 5-100% with Macro 1 x 3-facet prism (bi-directionally with variable speeds) Weight: 84 lb (38.2 kg)

Containing all the features of a conventional 1200W fixture the XRLED 1200 Spot also boasts many advantages in terms of output and energy saving. The XRLED 1200 Spot is designed for all professional applications, but principally the entertainment and stage/theatre world.”

- PR Lighting

www.pr-lighting.com

34

ENNOVATIONS March - April 2015

ADJ: 5P Hex Thanks to ADJ’s new patent-pending body design, which makes the 5P Hex more robust, the fixture can lie flat, with IEC and DMX in/out sockets being positioned on one side, allowing for a more practical solution when it comes to uplighting walls, marquees, stages and décor.”

- ADJ

WWW.CHAINMASTER.DE

www.adj.com

Frankfurt 15. - 18. April 2015 • Chain Hoists BGV-D8/D8+/C1 • VarioLifts up to 42 m/min • JumboLifts up to 6000kg • Control Systems D8/D8+ • Wireless Control Systems BGV-C1 • Computer Controls SIL3 • Load measuring systems • Rigging Equipment • Accessories

Hall 9.0 Booth C91 We are pleased about your visit!

CHAIN HOISTS • CONTROL SYSTEMS • SOLUTIONS

info@chainmaster.de

Total Solution Marketing Pte Ltd No. 2, Kallang Way 5, 349022 Singapore Phone: +65 - 6287 98 78 Fax: +65 - 6287 93 88 E-Mail: sales@tsm-int.com www.tsm-int.com

• LED Par fixture with 5 x 10-Watt, 6-IN-1 HEX LEDs • Source: 5 x 10W RGBAW + UV LEDs • Average LED Life: Approx. 50,000 hrs • 4 DMX Modes: 6, 7, 8, & 12 channel • 63 built-in Color Macros • Flicker Free operation (No flickering on camera) • 5 selectable Dim Curves (Standard, Stage, TV, Architectural & Theatre) • LED pulse and strobe effect • Electronic Dimming: 0 - 100%

• Beam angle: 30-degree • Dual yoke allows fixture to be hung or set on the ground • Data linkable via 3-pin XLR cables • UV Wavelength: 395nm • Power Draw: 49W total (All LED’s @ Full On) • Dimensions (L x W x H): 8.25’’ (210mm) x 4’’ (100mm) x 8.75’’ (220mm) • Weight: 5 lbs (2 kg)

ENNOVATIONS March - April 2015

35

Sennheiser: Evolution Wireless D1

TOTAL VISUAL CONTROL

Sapphire Touch

D1 instantly readies you for making music – and takes the complexity out of wireless. Basically, all that is needed is to switch the system on, the rest will happen automatically.

In no time at all, you’re all set to start jamming – with all the levels right, and a stable wireless link.”

Quartz

- Martin Fischer, Product Manager, Sennheiser www.sennheiser.com

System

EM D1

• RF frequency range: 2,400 to 2,483.5 MHz • Dynamic range: > 135 dB (A) • THD, total harmonic distortion: typ. < 0,1 % • Audio sampling: 24 bit/48 kHz • Signal-to-noise ratio: ≥ 105 dB (A) • Modulation: GFSK with back channel • Latency: 3.9 ms • Audio codec: APT-X Live • Frequency response: 20 - 20.000 Hz

• Latency: Multi-frequency targets • RF sensitivity: <-90 dBm • RF output power: Back channel 10 mW/100 mW (country-specific) • Equalizer: 7-band graphic equalizer • Current consumption: 350 mA • Weight: Approx. 824 g

ME 3 II • Microphone: Pre-polarized condenser • Sensitivity: 1.6 mV/Pa • Pick-up pattern: Cardioid • Max. SPL: 150 dB

Tiger Touch II

SK D1 • RF output power: Adaptive, up to 100 mW (country-specific) • Connection: 3.5 mm jack socket, lockable • Weight: Approx. 85 g (w/o batteries) • Microphone: - Frequency response: 50 - 20,000 Hz - Max. input level: 2.2 V RMS • Line: - Frequency response: 20 - 20,000 Hz - Max. input level: 3.3 V RMS • Input impedance: 1 MΩ • Input sensitivity: Automatic sensitivity adjustment

Avolites: +44 (0) 2089 658 522 avosales@avolites.com www.avolites.com

Total Solution: (+65) 6287 9878 enquiry@tsm-int.com www.tsm-int.com

36

ENNOVATIONS March - April 2015

Martin Professional: RUSH Gobo Projector 1 We designed the RUSH Gobo Projector 1 with ease-of-use in mind. Speed and direction are controlled by easy-touch buttons and it only takes a few seconds to change gobos with the magnetic gobo holders.”

Mark Buss, Product Manager, RUSH Products www.martin.com.sg

YOU´ VE GOT THE SKILLS. SKILL LS WE´ VE GOT THE TOOLS.

• Source: 20W LED Array • Minimum LED lifetime: 30,000 hours (to >70% luminous output) • Beam angle: 17-degree • Effects - Gobo projection:: Static / rotating replaceable gobo - Gobo rotation: Variable direction and speed (static/slow/medium/fast) - Focus: Manual

www.tsm-int.com Phone: +65-62879878 sales@tsm-int.com

www.coolux.com

• Gobo - Size: E30 (Size E, max. image diameter 30 mm) - Outside diameter: 37.5 mm +0/- 0.2 mm - Maximum image diameter: 24 mm - Maximum thickness: 4 mm • Dimensions (L x W x H): 8.5’’ (215mm) x 5.4’’ (135mm) x 6’’ (152mm) • Weight: 11 lbs (4.9kg)

ENNOVATIONS March - April 2015

37

Clair Lighting: Viper 620 Super Beam • • • •

Source : 6 x 20W White LEDs Average Lifespan: 60,000 hrs Luminous Flux: 32000lux @ 2.5m Ballast: Switching mode power supply • Beam Angle: 2.5-degree • Pan: 360-degree (2.8sec) / 540-degree (2.0 sec) • Tilt: 265-degree (1.8sec)

• Dimmer : 0-100% (Full range) • RDM function to change DMX address, display flip • Hard-edge beam effect for white colour LEDs • Max Power Consumption: 206W • Dimension (L x W x H): 18’’ (468mm) x 9.8’’ (250mm) x 14.7’’ (375mm) • Weight : 22 lbs (10kg)

Super bright, super sharp beam, super LED 20W technology..”

Clair Lighting

www.slprotrading.com

38

ENNOVATIONS March - April 2015

ADJ: Inno Pocket Spot Twins

• • • • • •

Source: 12W White LED (each) Average LED Life: Approx. 50,000 hrs 7 Colours + white 7 fixed gobos + spot Separate colour & gobo wheels 3 Operational modes: DMX Control, Sound Active Mode & Show Mode • 4 Built-in shows • Gobo Shake effect / scroll mode • Beam Angle: 13-degrees

• 540° pan / 230° tilt (16-bit) • Pan /Tilt Inversion mode • 5 selectable Dim Curves (Standard, Stage, TV, Architectural & Theatre) • Power consumption: 85W • Dimensions (L x W x H): 19.25’’ (487mm) x 6’’ (153mm) x 13’’ (327mm) • Weight: 17 lbs (7.6 kg)

With the Inno Pocket Spot Twins we wanted to take all the positive aspects of the Inno Pocket Spot but incorporate it into a dual-moving head fixture; a convenient, portable two-in-one solution. Users can create a more enticing atmosphere, generate more attention-grabbing effects and, as a result, produce more memorable events, thanks to the fixture’s compact power, flexible movement and independent color/GOBO wheels.”

- Alfred Gonzales, National Sales Manager for ADJ USA www.adj.com

ENNOVATIONS March - April 2015

39

Martin Professional: RUSH PAR 2 CT Zoom • Source: 12 x 10 W CWUW LEDs • Minimum LED lifetime: 50 000 hours (to >70% luminous output) • CRI (Color rendering index): 90 • Beam angle: 10° - 60° • Color temperature control: Variable 2700 - 7800 K • Color mixing: WW-CW (warm white & cold white) • 10° to 60° motorized zoom

• Electronic dimming: 0 - 100%, four dimming curve options • Strobe and pulse effects: Variable speed and action, random strobe • Electronic ‘shutter’ effect: Instant open and blackout • Dimensions (L x W x H): 10.5’’ (266mm) x 11.3’’ (287mm) x 13’’ (329mm) • Weight: 12.1 lbs (5.5kg)

...the RUSH PAR 2 CT Zoom, will be an ideal companion to our highly successful RUSH PAR 2 RGBW Zoom. The ability to pre-mix white light ranging from 2700K to 7200K will offer lighting designers full flexibility for installations ranging from nightclubs and theatre applications to conferences and exhibitions.”

Mark Buss, Product Manager for RUSH by Martin www.martin.com

40

ENNOVATIONS March - April 2015

Barco: HDF-W30 FLEX AMAZING G OPTICS

HIGH OUTPUT

FULL FEATURE SET

Debuting Worldwide

March 2014

www.vari-lite.com

• Projector type: WUXGA 3-chip DLP digital projector • Technology: 0.96” DMD x3 sealed DLP core • Resolution: 1,920 x 1,200 - 16:10 aspect ratio • Brightness: 30,000 centre lumens / 28,000 ANSI lumens • Contrast ratio: 1,900:1 (standard) / 2,200:1 (high contrast mode) • Brightness Uniformity: 90% • ScenergiX: Horizontal and vertical edge blending

• • • •

Color correction: P7 Lamps: 4.0 kW xenon Lamp lifetime: 600 hrs Picture-in-picture: Two sources simultaneously • 3D: Triple flash up to 200Hz/ Optional: active eyewear, passive Infitec, passive circular • Dimensions (W x L x H): 27.8’’ (707mm) x 40.3’’ (1025mm) x 21.5’’ (548mm) • Weight: 218.25 lbs (99kg)

The HDF platform was previously limited to only 26,000 lumens but with the launch of this new upgraded 30K lumens model, we now cover the entire brightness spectrum – from 10K to 40K lumens, without gaps – offering rental companies the widest choice in brightness levels on the market.”

- Richard Marples, Barco’s Strategic Marketing Director for Venues & Hospitality www.barco.com

www.tsm-int.com

ENNOVATIONS March - April 2015

41

D.A.S Audio: Vantec Series The Vantec series is comprised of 4 models available in both powered and passive configurations. The new M-28 compression driver features a FEM (Finite Element Modeling) optimized motor, phase-plug and diaphragm.

Attached to the D.A.S. designed CD-horn, the assembly provides brilliant high frequency reproduction and optimum control of dispersion with 90º x 50º coverage angles.”

- D.A.S Audio

www.dasaudio.com

Vantec 12

Vantec 215

• • • • • • •

RMS Power Handling: 500 W Peak Power Handling: 2000 W Frequency Range (-10 dB): 65 Hz - 20 kHz Nominal Impedance: 8Ω On-axis Sensitivity 1 W / 1 m: 98 dB SPL Rated Peak SPL @ 1 m: 131 dB Dimensions (H x W x D): 24’’ (610mm) x 15’’ (380mm) x 14.8’’ (375mm) • Weight: 41.8 lbs (19kg)

• • • • • • •

Vantec 12A

Vantec 215A

• • • •

(Class D) Amplifier Power: 1500W peak, Biamplified Frequency Range (-10 dB): 60 Hz - 20 kHz Rated Peak SPL @ 1 m: 135 dB Dimensions (H x W x D): 24’’ (610mm) x 15’’ (380mm) x 14.8’’ (375mm) • Weight: 46 lbs (21kg)

• • • •

Vantec 15

Vantec 18

• • • • • • •

RMS Power Handling: 500 W Peak Power Handling: 2000 W Frequency Range (-10 dB): 60 Hz - 20 kHz Nominal Impedance: 8Ω On-axis Sensitivity 1 W / 1 m: 99 dB SPL Rated Peak SPL @ 1 m: 132 dB Dimension (H x W x D): 28’’ (710mm) x 17.5’’ (444mm) x 14.8 (375mm) • Weight: 50 lbs (22.8kg)

• • • • • • •

Vantec 15A

Vantec 18A

• • • •

• (Class D) Nominal LF Amplifier Power: 1500W peak • Frequency Range (-10 dB): [Loud] 35 Hz - 125 Hz, [Deep] 30 Hz 125 Hz • Rated Peak SPL @ 1 m: 134 dB • Dimensions (H x W x D): 42.5’’ (710mm) x 21.3’’ (540mm) x 25.6’’ (650mm) • Weight: 79.2 lbs (36kg)

(Class D) Amplifier Power: 1500W peak, Biamplified Frequency Range (-10 dB): 45 Hz - 20 kHz Rated Peak SPL @ 1 m: 135 dB Dimensions (H x W x D): 28’’ (710mm) x 17.5’’ (444mm) x 14.8’’ (375mm) • Weight: 52.8 lbs (24kg)

RMS Power Handling: 1000 W Peak Power Handling: 4000 W Frequency Range (-10 dB): 55 Hz - 20 kHz Nominal Impedance: 4Ω On-axis Sensitivity 1 W / 1 m: 102 dB SPL Rated Peak SPL @ 1 m: 138 dB Dimensions (H x W x D): 42.5’’ (1080mm) x 17.5’’ (444mm) x 19.8’’ (50.2mm) • Weight: 88 lbs (40kg)

(Class D) Amplifier Power: 2250W peak, Triamplified Frequency Range (-10 dB): 40 Hz - 20 kHz Rated Peak SPL @ 1 m: 138 dB Dimensions (H x W x D): 42.5’’(1080mm) x 17.5’’ (444mm) x 19.8’’ (502 mm) • Weight: 90 lbs (41kg)

RMS Power Handling: 1000 W Peak Power Handling: 4000 W Frequency Range (-10 dB): 45 Hz - 138 Hz Nominal Impedance: 8Ω On-axis Sensitivity 1 W / 1 m: 98 dB SPL Rated Peak SPL @ 1 m: 134 dB Dimensions (H x W x D): 42.5’’ (710mm) x 21.3’’ (540mm) x 25.6’’ (650mm) • Weight : 77 lbs (35kg)

42

ENNOVATIONS March - April 2015

Electro-Voice: EKX Series EV’s award-winning industrial design – incorporating robust wood enclosures, premium-quality hardware, and durable EVCoat finish – ensures that EKX speakers look as great as they sound. The EKX series will begin shipping in Spring 2015.”

- Electro-Voice

www.electrovoice.com

• Coverage: 90° x 60° (N/A for 15SP/18SP) • HF Transducer: DH-1M 1’’ titanium compression driver (Loudspeakers only)

EKX-12P • System: 12'', two-way, powered loudspeaker • Frequency Response (-10 dB): 50 Hz 20 kHz • Frequency Response (-3 dB): 60 Hz - 18 kHz • Maximum SPL: 132 dB • Power Handling: 1500W • LF Transducer: EVS-12M 12'' • Crossover Frequency: 1.7 kHz • Dimensions (H x W x D): 23.9'' (607mm) x 14.7'' (375mm) x 14'' (356mm) • Weight: 41.5 lb (18.8 kg)

EKX-15P • System: 15'', two-way, powered loudspeaker • Frequency Response (-10 dB): 48 Hz 20 kHz • Frequency Response (-3 dB): 55 Hz - 18 kHz • Maximum SPL: 134 dB • Power Handling: 1500W • LF Transducer: EVS-15M 15'' • Crossover Frequency: 1.7 kHz • Dimensions (H x W x D): 26.9'' (685mm) x 17'' (432mm) x 16.8'' (429mm) • Weight: 53.8 lb (24.4 kg)

EKX-12 • System: 12'', two-way, passive loudspeaker • Frequency Response (-10 dB): 55 Hz 20 kHz • Frequency Response (-3 dB) 82 Hz - 18 kHz • Maximum SPL: 131 dB

• Power Handling: 350W continuous / 1400W peak • LF Transducer: EVS-12M 12'' • Crossover Frequency: 1.6 kHz • Dimensions (H x W x D): 23.9'' (607mm) x 14.7'' (375mm) x 14'' (356mm) • Weight: 38.3 lb (17.4 kg)

EKX-15 • System: 15'', two-way, passive loudspeaker • Frequency Response (-10 dB): 50 Hz - 20 kHz • Frequency Response (-3 dB): 75 Hz - 18 kHz • Maximum SPL: 132 dB • Power Handling: 400W continuous / 1600W peak • LF Transducer: EVS-15M 15'' • Crossover Frequency: 1.6 kHz • Dimensions (H x W x D): 27'' (685mm) x 17'' (432mm) x 16.8'' (429mm) • Weight: 51 lb (23 kg)

EKX-15SP • System: 15'' powered sub • Frequency Response (-10 dB): 40 Hz 180 Hz • Frequency Response (-3 dB): 45 Hz 150 Hz • Maximum SPL: 133 dB • Power Rating: 1300W • LF Transducer: EVS-15C 15'' • Dimensions (H x W x D): 18'' (455mm) x 21'' (530mm) x 22'' (551mm) • Weight: 57.7 lb (26 kg)

EKX-18SP • System: 18'' powered sub • Frequency Response (-10 dB): 35 Hz 180 Hz • Frequency Response (-3 dB): 40 Hz 150 Hz • Maximum SPL: 134 dB • Power Rating: 1300W • LF Transducer: EVS-18C 18'' • Dimensions (H x W x D): 27'' (685mm) x 17'' (432mm) x 17'' (432mm) • Weight: 72 lb (32.8 kg)

EKX-15S • System: 15'' passive sub • Frequency Response (-10 dB): 40 Hz 300 Hz • Frequency Response (-3 dB): 60 Hz 100 Hz • Maximum SPL: 133 dB • LF Transducer: EVS-15C 15'' • Power Handling: 400w continuous / 1600W peak • Dimensions (H x W x D): 18'' (455mm) x 21'' (530mm) x 22'' (551mm) • Weight: 55 lb (24.9 kg)

EKX-18S • System: 18'' passive sub • Frequency Response (-10 dB): 35 Hz 300 Hz • Frequency Response (-3 dB): 50 Hz 100 Hz • Maximum SPL: 134 dB • LF Transducer: EVS-18C 15'' • Power Handling: 400w continuous / 1600W peak • Dimensions (H x W x D): 20'' (520mm) x 24'' (606mm) x 24'' (612mm) • Weight: 88 lb (40 kg)

44

ENNOVATIONS March - April 2015

Mackie: iP Series Loudspeakers With the demanding needs of install applications, each and every detail is important. From horizontal and vertical hangs, to low-profile wall and ceiling mount accessories, plus a rotatable logo that presents well in any orientation, iP series is the perfect solution when the client is focused on the perfect aesthetic.”

- John Boudreau, SVP Product Marketing, Mackie www.mackie.com

• 1.4” titanium compression driver • 8 x M10 rigging points and rotatable 90° x 50° horn for vertical/horizontal rigging (PA-A2 accessory)

iP-10

iP-12

iP-15

• 10” 2-way low-profile installation loudspeaker • 10” high-output ceramic woofer with 2” voice coil • Frequency range (-10 dB): 50 Hz – 20 kHz • Power handling: 200W continuous / 400W program • Max SPL: 124 dB • Crossover frequency: 3 kHz • Nominal Impedance: 8Ω • Dimensions (H x W x D): 20.5’’ (520mm) x 12’’ (310mm) x 13.4’’ (340mm) • Weight: 26 lbs (11.8kg)

• 12” 2-way low-profile installation loudspeaker • 12” high-output ceramic woofer with 2.5” voice coil • Frequency range (-10 dB): 45 Hz – 20 kHz • Power handling: 250W continuous / 500W program • Max SPL: 128 dB • Crossover frequency: 2.2 kHz • Nominal impedance: 4Ω • Dimensions (H x W x D): 23’’ (585mm) x 14.2’’ (360mm) x 14.9’’ (377mm) • Weight: 34.2 lbs (15.5kg)

• 15” 2-way low-profile installation loudspeaker • 15” high-output ceramic woofer with 2.5” voice coil • Frequency range (-10 dB): 40 Hz – 20 kHz • Power handling: 300W continuous / 600W program • Max SPL: 126 dB • Crossover frequency: 2.5 kHz • Nominal Impedance: 8Ω • Dimension (H x W x D): 26.7’’ (677mm) x 17.5’’ (445mm) x 17.4 (441mm) • Weight: 45.2 lbs (20.5kg)

46

ENNOVATIONS March - April 2015

Allen & Heath: Qu-Pac Qu-Pac is a response to some of the major headaches in real world mixing. For bands working the bar and club scene, there are countless situations where there just is no space for a regular mixer. For venues...where background music and simple events are handled by nontechnical staff who would be intimidated by a regular mixer. Qu-Pac is ideal in [these] sort of situations..”

- Glenn Rogers, Allen & Heath’s Managing Director www.allen-heath.com

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

5” Touchscreen 16 x AnaLOGIQ recallable preamps 16 x on-board Mic / Line Inputs (XLR / TRS) Expandable up to 38 inputs via dSNAKE 3 x Stereo Inputs (TRS) 32 x Mono + 3 Stereo Input Channels 12 x on-board Mix Outputs (XLR) 4 x Stereo Groups 2 x Stereo Matrix Outs AES Digital Out 4 x DCA Groups 4 x Mute Groups Qu-Pad App (iPad / iPhone) for all live mixing controls / personal monitoring Qu-Drive direct Multitrack Recording / Playback on USB drives 4 FX Engines 32×32 USB Audio Interface Compatible with ME Personal Mixing System

Mackie: DL32R • • • • • • • • • • •

32-Channel wireless digital mixer 32 x Onyx+ recallable mic presets with wireless control 14 x fully-assignable XLR outputs Stereo AES digital output (front panel) Total recall of all settings 3U rackmount design (on the road / install) Card slot for Dane expansion card Complete control via Master Fader iPad app No fixed FOH position Multi-track recording & playback Fully-loaded DSP

Noise is minimized at every gain setting, not just minimum and maximum like other mixers.

Designed for the rigid standards of professional live sound, DL32R’s gain changes are completely silent.”

- Ben Olswang, Mackie Senior Product Manager www.mackie.com

ENNOVATIONS March - April 2015

47

Elation Professional: Cuepix PAR 300 • Source: 7 x 30W 3-in-1 COB LEDs • Average LED Life: 100,000 hrs • Effects: - Strobe and Chase - Individual COB Module Control - Variable and Selectable Dimming Curves • ArtNet + KlingNet Protocol Support • 15° Beam / 25° Field Angles • Multiple Unit Power Linking • Flicker Free Operation for TV and FILM • Dimensions (L x W x H): 14.4” (365mm) x 5.8” (147mm) x 14.4” (365mm) • Weight: 17 lbs (7.6 kg)

Lightweight and wrapped in a rugged diecast aluminium exterior, [the Cuepix PAR 300] delivers a bright output of 24,200 LUX @ 1m yet consumes only 300W of max power. The Cuepix PAR 300 is controllable via 6 DMX modes (3 / 4 / 5 / 9 / 21 / 24 channels) for a variety of control options.”

- Elation Professional

www.elationlighting.com

Turbosound: iX Series • Full range, bi-amped loudspeakers for portable PA and installation applications • 1,100W power featuring KLARK TEKNIK Class-D technology • Titanium dome 1” compression driver with pure aluminium voice coil for extended high frequency reproduction • KLARK TEKNIK Digital Signal Processing • Total remote control via Apple iPhone/iPad • Bluetooth stereo audio streaming • Remote control 2 channel mixer with gain setting recall • Intuitive single-knob user interface with LCD display • Rugged powder coated perforated steel mesh grille • Dual angle pole mount

iX Series two-way powered speaker systems utilise a sophisticated, but easy to use Klark Teknik Digital Signal Processor, which provides a wide range of useful presets and dynamic EQ for impressive full range response at low volume levels and transparent limiting for the utmost clarity at high output levels.”

- Turbosound

www.turbosound.com

iX15

iX12

15” low frequency driver with low mass voice coil

12" low frequency driver with low mass voice coil

48

ENNOVATIONS March - April 2015

JBL Professional: SRX800 Series The portable PA market has been moving more and more towards powered loudspeakers and our new SRX800 Series was created to do nothing less than redefine the performance standards in the category.”

- Andy Flint, Senior Manager, Portable PA Marketing, JBL Professional www.jblpro.com

• • • • •

Drivecore Amplification By Crown Full User Configurable DSP Network Control JBL Engineered Application Presets LCD Screen and Glow in the Dark Ink on Back Panel

• • • •

M10 Suspension Points Standard 35mm Pole Cup (loudspeaker models) Amplifier Design: Class D Power Rating: 2000W Peak / 1000W Peak (SRX818SP)

SRX812P

SRX835P

SRX828SP

• Feet for Monitor Angle • System Type: Self powered 12”, two-way, bass-reflex • Max SPL Output: 136 dB • Frequency Range (-10 dB): 40 Hz - 21 kHz • Frequency Response (-3 dB): 48 Hz - 20 kHz • Coverage Pattern: 90° x 50° • Dimensions (H x W x D): 25'' (638mm) x 16'' (415mm) x 16.8'' (429mm) • Weight : 58 lb (26.4kg)

• System Type: Self powered 15”, threeway, bass-reflex • Max SPL Output: 137 dB • Frequency Range (-10 dB): 33 Hz - 21 kHz • Frequency Response (-3 dB): 41 Hz - 20 kHz • Coverage Pattern: 60° x 40° • Dimensions (H x W x D): 38.7'' (984mm) x 21'' (544mm) x 18.7'' (476mm) • Weight: 85 lb (38.6kg)

• System Type: Self powered dual 18”, subwoofer system • Max SPL Output: 141 dB • Frequency Range (-10 dB): 29 Hz - 150 Hz • Frequency Response (-3 dB): 35 Hz - 120 Hz • Dimensions (H x W x D) 22.5'' (574mm) x 47.4'' (1205mm) x 26.7 (681mm) • Weight: 145 lb (65.9kg)

SRX815P • Feet for Monitor Angle • System Type: Self powered 15”, two-way, bass-reflex • Max SPL Output: 137 dB • Frequency Range (-10 dB): 36 Hz - 21 kHz • Frequency Response (-3 dB): 44 Hz - 20 kHz • Coverage Pattern: 90° x 50° • Dimensions (H x W x D): 27'' (691mm) x 18'' (458mm) x 18.8'' (478mm) • Weight: 63 lb (28.6kg)

SRX818SP • System Type: Self powered 18”, subwoofer system • Max SPL Output: 135 dB • Frequency Range (-10 dB): 29 Hz - 150 Hz • Frequency Response (-3 dB): 35 Hz - 120 Hz • Dimensions (H x W x D): 22.6'' (575mm) x 26.9'' (684mm) x 26.8'' (683mm) • Weight : 87 lb (39.5kg)

ENNOVATIONS March - April 2015

49

Christie: Christie Boxer 4K30 The brightness-to-size and brightness-toweight ratios of the Boxer 4K30 is secondto-none in this lumen level of projector.

This translates to not only the lightest projector at 30,000 lumens, but also reduced shipping costs and on-site handling.”

- Mike Garrido, Senior Product Manager, Christie www.christiedigital.com

• Projector type: 30,000 lumen, high-resolution, 3DLP projector • Resolution: 4K (4096 x 2160) • Brightness: 30,000 centre lumens / 29,000 ANSI lumens • Contrast ratio: 2000: 1 • Display: 3DLP 1.38” DMD • Illumination: 6 x 450W NSH • Lamp lifetime: 1500 hrs to 70% initial brightness • Pixel clock: 1.2Gpx/s - TruLife Electronics • Dimensions (W x L x H): 37.7’’ (959mm) x 23.5’’ (597mm) x 12’’ (305mm) • Weight: 150 lbs (68kg)

Barco: XHD-200 • • • • • • • • • •

Channel outputs: 1x DP 1.2, 1x DVI-D Output resolution: Max. 2x 2K@60fps Video layers: Max. 4x 2K SMPTE input: Mini Jack EDID management: Software Audio output: Balanced Audio XLR Connectors USB: 4x USB 3, 2x USB 2 Input voltage: 100V AC, 220V AC Networking: 1x Gigabit Ethernet Dimensions (W x L x H): 19’’ (480mm) x 11’’ (280mm) x 3.5’’ (90mm) • Weight: 14 lbs (6.4 kg)

While there are other great top-end media servers available, too many of them require help from the manufacturer in actually getting sophisticated projects done. The industry needed a media server that could map a building and show optimal projector setup locations and lens options in minutes – and that is exactly what the Barco media servers accomplish.”

- Wim Buyens, Senior Vice President Entertainment & Corporate, Barco www.barco.com

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EXHIBITION PREVIEW March - April 2015

Thought-Provoking Fringe Events @ Prolight + Sound Guangzhou 2015 Prolight + Sound Guangzhou, China’s largest industry event, has a solid line-up this year of 1,300 professional audio and lighting suppliers. The latest advances in the pro audio and lighting markets will take centre stage during the show period. The show will be held from 5 – 8 April 2015 in Area A and B at the China Import and Export Fair Complex, Guangzhou, China.

An extensive range of topics focusing on developing trends and market intelligence will be covered in the programme, offering countless business opportunities and industry knowledge. Fiona Chiew, Deputy General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (Shanghai) Co Ltd explained: “Participating in Prolight + Sound Guangzhou is essential to staying ahead in this industry. The show and its accompanying fringe programme provide a prime opportunity for exchanging market information and keeping up-to-date with the latest market trends. Buyers can connect with industry experts to get excellent ideas for 2015 business planning.”

Major Fringe Programme Highlights: Acoustic Technology Forum NEW Leading industry professionals will deliver their keynote speeches at the forum to bring deeper understanding of acoustic technology.

Debuting in 2005, the forum is one of the most influential information exchange platforms for pro audio and acoustic sectors in China.

The 5th Edition Pro Audio Technology Seminar An exclusive opportunity to interact with industry experts including TV station heads, chief engineers and audio technicians from across China, to acquire the latest and innovative knowledge on the applications and development of top-notch audio technology.

The Guangdong Performing Industry Exchange and Trading Forum 2015 To encourage the development of cultural performances, this forum will gather performance groups to discuss the hottest industry topics, to network and look for business opportunities.

Audio Experts Conference NEW This conference will feature three of the best known pro audio engineers from China to share their insights in cutting-edge audio technology and developing trends.

Topics include: • Sound creation Speaker: Li Xiaopei, Sound Engineer, China Central Television • The relationship between R&D and applications of pro audio products Speaker: Zhao Shunhua, President and Senior Sound Designer, Zhejiang Stage and Audio Institute

EXHIBITION PREVIEW March - April 2015

• Digital audio application and mixing Speaker: Yu Xiao, Senior Engineer, China Telecom Corporation Limited (Zhejiang Branch)

Outdoor Line Array

Lighting Technology for Television Broadcasting Studio Forum 2015

Applications of AV Systems in the Hotel Industry

Interactive programme for TV station heads, engineers and lighting technicians to exchange new ideas in television and stage lighting.

Audio Demonstration Rooms NEW The premier first Audio Demonstration Rooms will allow users to experience audio products in a compatible environment.

51

An aural experience of 27 leading international and local audio brands in an outdoor professional concert setting.

This seminar will show how high-end AV systems bring value, and business opportunities to hotel and MICE industries.

Not to be missed exhibitors’ activities will be held alongside the events, including: HD Audio and Visual Technology Forum, Intelligent Amplifier Technology Seminar and Product Presentations.

Prolight + Sound Guangzhou is organised

by Messe Frankfurt and the Guangdong International Science and Technology Exhibition Company (STE). For more information, please visit www.prolightsoundguangzhou.com or email plsgz@hongkong. messefrankfurt.com.

Prolight + Sound Guangzhou China (Guangzhou) International Professional Light and Sound Exhibition Area A & B, China Import and Export Fair Complex Guangzhou, China, 5 – 8 April 2015

Images courtesy of Messe Frankfurt / Prolight + Sound Guangzhou

52

IN PROFILE March - April 2015 From beginning to finale: Production – UNIPLAN Gmbh, Client – NU SKIN PROJECT 2014

Magical Water Opens Rep Office In Singapore

C

reating unique water features with lights, sound and special effects is what Magical Water has become renowned for. The company's patented speciality fountains are used for decoration, entertainment and promotional purposes.

The primary product, the Musical Fountain, produces an array of water displays, which when combined with music, lighting, laser imagery and even fireworks, creates a large scale multimedia choreographed spectacle.

The product that Magical Water has mastered achieves a perfect synthesis of water, colours and music. The patented computer and electronic system controls a wide range of elements including light projectors, submerged valves, special nozzles

and rhythm transporters. It allows the user to compose a musical entertainment program, and/or special effects, and synchronize it to the dynamic dance of the fountains.

Magical Water designs and manufacturers their unique products fully in-house with designers, engineers, electricians and installers working out of their workshops based in Dubai, Brussels and Paris. Other than these cities, Magical Water also has offices established in Manama (Bahrain), Cairo (Egypt), Jeddah (KSA), Hong Kong and now in Singapore.

Established as Magical Water Asia, the Singapore office is headed by Mac Mahendran. Mac, a Singaporean, comes with event and show business background.

His years of work has enabled him to build relationships with many in the leisure industry, which is well aligned with the type of industries Magical Water solutions are targeted at. Magical Water already has a presence in Hong Kong, through Tommy Cheung of Able Company, which oversees possible business opportunities in Hong Kong, Macau and China.

Though the office in Singapore is mainly sales orientated, Mac is quick to add, “Philippe Aerts, CEO of the MAGICAL WATER Group will provide his 35 years experience in the show business industry. Around him Magical Water's team of engineers and designers are ready to support any kind of challenges. A total of 5 companies are behind MAGICAL WATER ASIA. More than

IN PROFILE March - April 2015

53

Photography by Ralph Larmann

120 people in several departments such as Design, Engineering, Manufacture, Services & Marketing are ready for new Asian challenges. Tommy's office in Hong Kong will also be providing support to us here in Singapore.”

Show Dubai, UAE; Amer Porto Marina Golf in Egypt; Royal Golden Tulip Hotel in Almaty, Kazakhstan; Artar Mega Mall in Madinat, KSA and many others, the company is well positioned to take advantage of the growing leisure and hospitality opportunities in Asia.

With more theme parks and casinos being planned in Asia, it is hardly a surprise that a company like Magical Water is establishing its presence in the region. According to Mac, their distinctive advantage is that, “we design & manufacture most of our components inside the company group. We do now more and more customized projects and that’s what the clients are looking for.

New ideas, quick development and fast delivery!”

Other than the Musical Water Fountain solution, the company is also well versed with other solutions such as their transparent water screen solution, ICEVISION and the Pixel Fall Aquagraphic screen, which is a specific curtain that can be used for back projection of images or logos with video and laser. More than that, the company is able to master its years of experience to create unique solutions for customers.

True indeed, with their years of experience in this niche field, plus the portfolio of prestigious projects such as DHV Jumana

“We are proud of the fact that our solutions are well thought through, our design team ensures that the look is stunning and captivating. We also ensure that our

technology uses electricity and water effectively thus ensuring low operational costs for our clients and most importantly we deliver amazing products that are top quality,” said Mac. Mac's responsibility is to build on Magical Water's success in Asia. “There is much opportunity in the region. We hope to be involved in Multimedia shows, Theme Parks, Shopping Malls, Hotels and even private projects in Asia. When guests of our customers are smiling and enjoying the shows, it means we have delivered what we have promised.”

Mac Mahendran is contactable at Tel: (+65) 6497-2681 HP: (+65) 9180-4746 Email: mahendran@magical-water.com

54

SNAPSHOT March - April 2015

Christie On Coolux Acquisition Hot off Christie's acquisition of coolux GmbH, a world-renowned developer best known for the Pandoras Box product family, Jennifer Smith, Exec VP of Christie's Global Market Solutions, spoke to E-Tech Asia exclusively about the strategy behind the purchase and what this means for future solutions. Excerpts..

What’s the thinking behind the purchase?

Jennifer: Direct end-users and our partners, dealers and systems integrators in the rental staging, architectural mapping, and artistic event/entertainment markets are looking for leadership from Christie and the coolux acquisition shows that we understand the value chain for their markets. Plus we are committed to serving them more fully and to increase our total value-added offering. Simplifying projectionmapping workflows specifically and the creation of compelling largescale, multi-media experiences in general will be improved by this deal. In all this we’ll see the task list of our customers becoming easier to achieve; we want to make it easier for them to make their visions a reality. Pandoras Box is a powerful, server-based content playback tool, which helps create a compelling story.

By the way, I can report that at the biennial coolux Connect Conference held in January in Cologne, Germany, coolux customers were delighted and excited by the news. There was a noticeable buzz on the floor and positive comments galore. They anticipate myriad technological advances resulting from the acquisition, and integration with Christie products and our tools on the display side, such as alignment tools, which will benefit their entire production workflow.

The merger is already bearing fruit, since it has a sound strategic basis. For example, a leading Christie partner in Asia immediately saw the value in tying the two product lines together and has selected coolux servers and Christie’s new Christie® Boxer 4K30 projectors for upcoming bids on mega-events in southeast Asia. We were told that our combo serves his need for a sophisticated content-control suite with seamless connectivity to the projectors, high reliability and any easy-to-use interface, facilitating management of same.

Where and how will coolux solutions fit in at Christie?

Jennifer: To answer this simply, one must realize what is available.

Serving up content via media servers and then manipulating it within the server (“processing” it) before delivering it onto the digital canvas, is no easy task. The primary use and what makes the Pandoras Box product from coolux so popular today is its server strengths. It can do amazing content editing and video-effect processing, complete with show scripting, timeline creation and powerful 3D pre-visualization.

The Christie Spyder X20, our very powerful pixel processor, is adept at handling multiple live video feeds on mega-pixel canvases in live production environments, all with near-zero image latency. Christie Spyder can control multiple displays and easily manipulate and shift images onto the often-giant canvases that show producers are working with; it’s a ‘live,’ real-time production tool. Imagine the possibilities inherent in improving the integration between the two products, Pandoras Box and Christie Spyder, which will be so much easier under one roof.

The 3D environment of Pandoras Box is a very powerful environment where one can create sets, map and render them, and change points of views before you have to actually ‘go live’ for a show. Naturally, this pre-visualization capability is highly sought after. When the Pandoras

Box ‘playback output’ from that environment is combined as an input on our high-performance Christie Spyder, converting from a pre-visualized set to a fully live production event becomes incredibly natural and easy to adjust and alter in real-time.

So with Christie’s advanced pixel-processing strengths and full production-workflow capability, and by adding Pandoras Box, Christie is now able to complement a greater number and range of customer ‘use case’ requirements. Christie is broadening the number of applications that we can help our customers achieve, which maps well with Christie’s intentions to evolve our total portfolio of solutions offerings.

That’s at the primary, basic level of functionality. As the broader market continues to evolve with delivering more and more complex 3D, visualized mapping environments in the creation of events and shows, they’ll find Christie has powerful offerings across the entire gamut of content creation, serving, processing and delivery phases.

What are Christie's expectations for the near term and long term, as a result of this purchase?

Jennifer: The market segmentation we are witnessing consists of lowend applications using workaday servers – with inexpensive per-channel costs – along with a middle segment with its playback environment with pre-produced content. Then there’s the higher-end, multi-media and mega event space that encompasses ‘live’ productions and prescripted content. Christie is now better equipped to make a customer’s life easier by offering products for all of these segments.

Both our server and processing platforms will have continuing product roadmaps, yet different as they serve different customer needs. We will optimize both lines to maximize their individual and collective strengths going forward. The technology blocks that form the Pandoras Box base platform definitely complement Christie’s image processing line-up.

For example, there are Christie customers currently using Spyder that are intrigued by the pre-visualization capabilities of Pandoras Box and have already indicated to us that they intend to use both in common projects.

On the service side, Christie brings a scalability factor that will be welcomed by coolux customers. Strategic distributors have done a great job to date of supporting coolux products throughout Asia and the Americas and this will continue, but with the addition of a broader, worldwide service and support network for sales and technical support. coolux GmbH has become a welcome feature at various industry shows, including ISE, NAB, LDI and InfoComm, and this presence will continue in the Christie experiential marketing booths at said shows, beginning with the NAB 2015 show in Las Vegas, Nevada, April 13-16, 2015. www.christiedigital.com www.coolux.de

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SPECIAL FEATURE March - April 2015

Singapore's Nightlife Dissected

By Elissa Nadine

As the night falls in Singapore, the island takes on a persona that offers an electric array of nightlife and entertainment choices. However, in a world that moves at such a fast pace, times have changed. From the nightclubs that sell S$500 vodka to bars that only play live music, diversity seems to have become the name of the game. How has technology kept up with the changes? And if there has been a shift in focus, where has it shifted to?

A

sia, as everybody is well aware, is a melting pot of mixed cultures.

This transcends to the variety of entertainment that can be found in the different countries. Other than clubs catering to the super rich, there is a wide choice for one to let their hair down. Singapore in a way encapsulates the region with its mix of entertainment venues – KTVs, Dance Clubs, Mandopop, Bollywood, Thai, Live Band, Restaurant Cum Clubs, and the list goes on.

(2013), “the association wants not only to be the first port of call for consultation on regulatory issues, but also to give the industry a classier image by beefing up service standards and introducing an accreditation framework for nightlife business owners.”

However, the road to vibrancy has not been an easy one. The financial crisis, higher costs and tough manpower regulations have created a few dents in the nightlife scene.

To understand how the external events and the country's overall growth in tourism has affected our industry we turned to industry veterans for their views..

“..ever since China opened up to export in 2008, everything changed in the lighting department.”

“Club owners now look at low-cost equipment because they are not overly concerned with ROI for lighting. Business directions have shifted and this has led many to make the conscious decision to stop investing in Western lighting because they don't feel the need for such high-quality lighting.”

In 2006, a report published by leading news agency, Channel News Asia stated that over SGD$48 million had been pumped into Singapore's nightlight scene. At that time, the small city-state aimed to become the clubbing capital of Asia.

Lights

According to him, club-goers in Singapore don't notice the type of lighting as long as its there. Therefore more owners now rely on equipment “that will work just as well as PARCANs”.

Now, nearly a decade later, the multibilliondollar industry has a collective voice known as the Singapore Nightlife Business Association. According to AsiaOne News

As part of one of the leading lighting distributors in Singapore, our first source wished to remain anonymous. Having supplied equipment to the nightlife market from the late 80s to early 2000s, he shared,

Our observations as far as Southeast Asia is concerned is that many of the dance clubs are willing to spend money on sound systems but unfortunately not on renowned or

SPECIAL FEATURE March - April 2015

57

“Business directions have shifted and this has led many to make the conscious decision to stop investing in Western lighting because they don't feel the need for such highquality lighting.” branded lighting fixtures. They seem happy to get copies installed. Of course for the more renowned venues, they ensure that they get quality lighting.

Operators are also diversifying and trying to ensure maximum revenue by creating mixed developments of restaurant cum bars or dance clubs. This way they can operate longer and get additional revenue from their food businesses. This has resulted in budgets moving more into sound systems due to customers relying on Asian manufacturers to do the simple job of providing lights.

Audio For the audio segment, European and American manufacturers can take a breath because club operators/owners in Singapore still see fit to in invest in high-quality audio systems.

To discover more, we spoke to Godwin Pereira, Co-founder of Limited Edition Concepts Pte Ltd (LEC). Based on their licenses, LEC are one of the largest club operators in Singapore. Even though nowadays, Godwin is specifically focused on creative marketing and operations of the company's many outlets, he started his career as a roadie and rose through the ranks.

Interestingly, the shift in budget priorities from lights to audio has led some operators to over-spec sound systems. "If my club fits 400 people, I'm going to build a system

that fits 1200 people,” Godwin said. “My understanding is that if I have a lot of power, I never overdrive the system. I may never use the power but it's good to know I have it.”

formed between distributors, suppliers and consultants. This results in a certain bias when it comes to specifying a product for a new venue. Godwin's thoughts?

Adding, "If you build a system just based on the parameters of what it does, your system is going to blow. After four drinks, nobody has good volume control. They are always driving the system on redline. That's the theory I have anyway, so I have learnt to over-spec things. And because of that, every bar and club that I have designed since has always been built around the sound system."

"I go for a couple of components when I'm buying a sound system. I always think about the maintenance of it later. I ask myself, 'how long the supplier has been in the game – is it for a long time or is he new?' Speakers, just like music, are subjective. Everyone's ears are different, some people think a bigger sound system sounds better than a smaller sound system but I don't think that's how you should gauge it. I always think its the technology of how the system is built and how you set up the parameters of the speakers that's more important."

Unfortunately, Godwin's ideas are not shared by other club operators. According to him, many that buy sound systems don't understand what they are buying. Leading the responsibility of getting the right equipment for the job to fall on the shoulders of the audio consultant. It is no secret in Singapore that alliances are regularly

For his own outlets, Godwin has stuck with local distributor/integrator, Electronics & Engineering Pte Ltd (E&E). Having worked on numerous projects together, Godwin considers himself a partner of E&E and trusts the quality of the EAW products they provide.

He states the service and backup as the two main factors that have kept him going back to E&E over the years.

However, at the end of the day, while the

"If you build a system just based on the parameters of what it does, your system is going to blow because DJs are deaf... I have learnt to over-spec things. And because of that, every bar and club that I have designed since has always been built around the sound system."

- Godwin Pereira.

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SPECIAL FEATURE March - April 2015

Clubs like Avalon and Pangaea where only the super rich are seen enjoying a S$32,000 cocktail known as the “Jewel of Pangaea” seem to be a constant trend in the club-scene of Singapore.

Godwin Pereira, Co-founder of Limited Edition Concepts Pte Ltd

end-user may not fully comprehend the technology, Godwin says it's the operator of any system that has the control.

done no changes ever need to be done to the EQ for nightclubs.”

Pangaea” seem to be a constant trend in the club-scene of Singapore.

Culture & Congestion

“It all boils down to the sound engineer because he's the one who is going to EQ the sound in a venue for you so he has to understand the application of it. I always get someone who I really trust with sound, usually that's Jason Tan, Sound engineer from Loud Technologies who has been doing dance clubs for years. There are some guys who have a natural instinct for dance music and there are others who have the instinct for live. Jason has an instinct for both. I've worked with him on many projects because he really knows how to EQ the sound for me.

That's the approach I take. All the presets are

For a country that saw the opening as well as closure of over 300 nightlife entertainment venues in 2014, one could consider the market in Singapore congested. Godwin attributes the congestion to the opening of the Resorts World Sentosa and Marina Bay Sands in 2010. Singapore culture, according to him, has always been more towards British entertainment, but since the opening of the casinos, aspects of American culture were added into the mix shortening the life cycle of clubs. Clubs like Avalon and Pangaea where only the super rich are seen enjoying a S$32,000 cocktail known as the “Jewel of

However, due to the congestion, Godwin now considers the average life cycle of a club in Singapore to be about 18 months to 2 years. “People are more concerned about being seen as opposed to actually enjoying themselves. This industry is ruthless, clubs are opening and closing just as quickly because so many people don't know how to balance their outlets and don't have the manpower to sustain themselves.”

The desire to expand and the size of Singapore seems to weigh heavily on the minds of everyone we spoke to. There could just be too many fish in the pond with not enough bait to go around. What does the future hold for the scene in Singapore? For LEC, at least, Godwin said that the pasture looks greener on the other side. "Our focus will be to do a few territories in the next 5 years. A few in S.E.A, because by then we expect to have 2-3 different brands that will allow us to go out there aggressively looking for locations."

In conclusion, yes, Singapore is a vibrant entertainment hub. Has it achieved its goal of becoming the clubbing state of Asia? The quality of sound systems and the amount of tourist traffic seems to point to yes. But the high turnover of clubs and ignorant mindset of some club owners suggest that while a lot of people are trying to get in, not everyone manages to stay in.

As Godwin said, its a ruthless industry.

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SPECIAL FEATURE March - April 2015

Looking for the perfect solution for your next entertainment venue? Look no further! Here's what top quality brands have to say on why you should buy their products! If you like the pitch, get in touch with a distributor in your area to find out more!

Avalon by EAW loudspeakers provide a highly directional acoustical design that creates crushing sound levels on the dance floor while minimizing spill onto walls and ceilings. The subwoofer delivers both warm, rich, ultralow bass and a concussive, physical punch. These amazing loudspeakers are the result of a unique partnership between a dance club designer and a loudspeaker designer. The result is a comprehensive product line that specifically maximizes output, clarity and impact for the dance club market.

And all of this power is presented in a striking and beautiful package, expressing the symmetry that unifies the design.

Connect With A Distributor: sales@eaw.com

Because you, dear reader, spent a lot of money to make your club look cool and interesting and sexy, and the last thing you need is a sound system that is so big and square that it stands in the way of your expensive interior design.

You need your music to be loud but not distorted, you need your brand to be recognisable but not common! You need NEXO PS Series loudspeakers because they will make you look like the smartest club-owner in town, and even your accountant will say so!

Connect With A Distributor: http://nexo-sa.com/en/distributors/

SPECIAL FEATURE March - April 2015

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HK Audio’s Elements Big Base offers the headroom of a large PA paired with that trademark Elements sound and handling ease. With a whopping 4,800 watts of total output power, you can drive up to 4 x dual 10” subwoofers and 6 x E835 mid/high units. That’s enough acoustical energy to keep several hundred listeners happy. With over two meters’ line length in the largest configuration with the Big Sub and Top Add-ons, this rig is able to throw midrange and high frequencies across distances that conventional systems can only reach with the help of multiple delay cabinets.

Connect With A Distributor: http://hkaudio.com/dealer.php

DPA's d:fine 88 dual-ear directional Headset Microphone is ideal for club performers who want their voices amplified but don’t want to be restricted to a mic and a stand. Combining the much-loved sound and quality of the DPA 4088 directional capsule with the modularity and durability of the d:fine headband, this versatile head worn solution is lightweight, flexible and able to accommodate any ear size or head shape. The mic delivers accurate, natural voice intelligibility and very high SPL capabilities, allowing users to speak and sing with no hint of distortion. Available in black, beige and brown, the d:fine 88 dual-ear Headset Microphone offers highly secure mounting and is hardly visible on the face.

Connect With A Distributor: http://www.dpamicrophones.com/en/Contact-DPA/ Distributors.aspx

A hybrid powerhouse that combines all of the best parts of a prime light source, the crisp optics of a spot, the undeniable impression of a beam, and the coverage of a wash all in one fast-moving automated package – the ROGUE RH1 Hybrid. The 330W OSRAM Sirius lamp delivers ultra-intense output, and a game-changing counter-rotating 6- and 8-facet prism set delivers the WOW factor you’re seeking. The ROGUE RH1 Hybrid pushes performance boundaries for automated fixtures in today’s high-stress production environment – check out all the ROGUE family has to offer at ChauvetROGUE.com.

Connect With A Distributor: http://www.chauvetlighting.com/chauvet-dealers/

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SPECIAL FEATURE March - April 2015

For performers, bands, and MCs who wish to unplug the wire and enjoy freedom of movement on stage, the BLX Wireless System from Shure is the easiest and most accessible solution. Affordable, intuitive, and ready to perform right out of the box, set-up and operation are so simple that it works as soon as you unpack it and plug it in. BLX delivers legendary Shure sound for up to 14 hours of continuous use, powered by two AA Alkaline batteries and with two-color LEDs indicating the remaining battery life.

Connect With A Distributor: http://www.shureasia.com/en/meta_en/contact/apac_ distributors

Robe’s new miniPointe is a tiny, agile, sharp beam that is specifically designed to produce eyecatching and fun aerial effects, especially good for small to medium sized venues and spaces.

Strikingly bright 2.5° parallel beams with glowing colours and static gobo wheel patterns can be multiplied by applying the innovative dynamic flower effect (DFE), producing multiple shapes and an assortment of funky flower beams. A smooth variable frost filter and any one of the 13 rich colours is instantly ready to create a smooth even wash, further extending the feature set of this petite but powerful beam, wash and effect fixture.

Connect With A Distributor: sales@robeap.com

The Allen & Heath Xone and Serato solution really is a major step forward for DJ’s. With Serato being recognized and supported, all Allen & Heath gear with the included features now allows very fast set-up and work and no additional interfaces needed. This means any change over between DJ’s can go much smoother, easier, simpler and a lot safer. A lot of DJ’s are nowadays turning to the DVS (Digital Vinyl System) as a solution to integrate a DJ Setup with Serato software and that is now plug and play with the Allen & Heath Xone series products.

Connect With A Distributor: http://www.allen-heath.com/where-to-buy/

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SPECIAL FEATURE March - April 2015

EIDOS 218 S is a super-powerful subwoofer, ideal for those applications requiring super-powerful sub-bass delivery (dance venues). Outline ‘E.R.P.’ (‘Energy Retentive Porting’) proprietary design assists airflow and enhances transducer efficiency, thus providing tremendous ‘punch’.

Based on the principles of fluid dynamics and successfully applied to the science of controlling pneumatic forces within a loudspeaker enclosure, this unique arrangement of specially-shaped ports ensures an optimum laminar airflow. This maximises the efficiency and allows more amplifier power to be converted into acoustic energy. Exceptional size-to-power ratio (148.5 dB SPL peak @ 1m) and extended low-frequency reproduction (down to 28 Hz).

Connect With A Distributor: http://www.outlinearray.com/index. php?option=com_salesnetwork&area=A&Itemid=83&lang=en

The newest addition to the EV portable portab sound family in 2015, EKX combines EV sound with the latest technology – in a llegendary d d quality lit and d reliability reliab li b lightweight, compact package suitable for a wide range of sound reinforcement scenarios. These include musicians, DJs, D live, club and installed sound applications.

Using EV-engineered components, Signal Sig Synchronized Transducers (SST) waveguide design, and Class D amplifiers coupled with QuickSmartDSP all work together to provide precise coverage and superio superior sound quality at high SPLs. Connect With A Distributor: http://www.electrovoice.com/contact.php p://w

The LT-series from SGM comprises of one-metre and two-metre long pixel tubes loaded with 27x2 and 54x2 RGB LEDs respectively at a 35mm pixel pitch – all DMX drivable via any proprietary media server. Used in numerous night clubs worldwide, the lightweight SGM LED tubes provide staggering overhead 3D vertical and horizontal zip effects as centrepieces above dancefloors or even floor mounted; in both cases demonstrating perfectly their 2 x 130 degree view angle. Adding to the application creativity, these graphic tubes are IP65 rated.

Connect With A Distributor: info@sgmlight.com

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INSTALL March - April 2015

CHINA

Shanghai Symphony Hall Harmonizes With ETC

T

he 135-year-old Shanghai Symphony Orchestra now has a new home in the Shanghai Symphony Hall, which celebrated its long-awaited grand opening in September 2014. The Hall has a full complement of ETC equipment, including a Sensor3 Power Control system with ThruPower modules, Source Four PAR fixtures, and an Eos-family lighting control system.

The venue contains two separate performance spaces: the Main Hall with 1,200 seats, which serves as a performance and rehearsal space, and the 400-seat Chamber Hall, which is used for recording and broadcasting.

ETC Sensor3 power-control racks dim both halls’ stage lighting. “You can always expect a smooth and natural dimming curve from ETC dimmer racks. They deliver maximum

reliability with a minimal failure rate compared to most brands on the market.

Lighting designers can just concentrate on their art and performance without worrying about equipment issues,” said Xingxing Dou, the Shanghai Symphony Hall lighting director.

Sensor3 ThruPower modules can control a variety of loads all from one unit, transitioning output freely, from constant, dim or relay, without having to change modules manually. It makes power control easy for a hybrid lighting rig, like the one in the Shanghai Symphony Hall.

“We love this design! Not only does it greatly improve the venue’s lighting flexibility, but also provides more room for lighting creativity and enriches the stage performance,” Dou commented. “Our lighting has impressed many touring groups who perform at the venue.”

There are 100 Source Four PAR MCM fixtures used in the Hall. Their delicate lighting complements the interior design, immersing both the musicians and audience into the experience. “The Source Four PARs’ color temperature perfectly matches the tone of the interior,” said Dou. “They look like interior lighting, but are flexible for any lighting application. Orchestra lighting is very different from other stage lighting, because the fixtures must be noise free, and that is why the Source Four PAR is part of our rig. Unlike other theatrical lights, their soft light creates a soothing performance environment.”

Controlling the lighting fixtures are Ion and Element consoles. “Our resident operators simply use the control desks for dimming most of the time, but international troupes often need more advanced lighting control.

Ion and Element provide what we need,” explained Dou. “And I like their touchscreens, which make programming easier.” www.etcconnect.com

IN A NUTSHELL • Venue: Shanghai Symphony Hall • Location: 1380 Fuxing Zhong Lu, • Equipment: ETC - Sensor3 Power Control system with ThruPower modules - Source Four PAR MCM - Ion and Element consoles

SINGAPORE

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INSTALL March - April 2015

TSB & EAW Turn The Sound A-Round

By Elissa Nadine

R

oundHouse Pizza Bar & Grill is the new watering hole nestled within the tranquil stretch of the affluent Bukit Timah district in Singapore. With its friendly wait staff and Western-themed menu, the 300-seater restaurant bar considers itself a “great space to stretch your legs and unwind your mind”.

In the one year since it opened, Roundhouse has been growing in popularity and has even garnered nods from various local food critics.

With word getting around that Roundhouse was the place to be, especially on 'Quiz Nights' aka Wednesday nights, co-owner Wayne Gladwin decided it was time to upgrade the audio systems so that staff could be heard over the din of the evening crowd.

“Roundhouse is a big space and with the old system, the sound level was so low that we needed to use hand signals to let the engineer inside [where the console is] know that the sound level outside was too loud,” he reported. “Luckily we have glass walls so it made it easier but the fact that we had to communicate that way was really tiring.

We knew there had to be a better way to do things.”

Wayne engaged the services of TSB Global Distributions (TSB), the distribution and integration arm of Singapore-based rental company, TSB Productions Pte Ltd. General Manager and overall face of TSB Global, Ted Singh was put in charge of the project where the only guidelines were “a system that could provide clear sound and would not 'burnout' from the high usage”.

“The restaurant has live events every weekend with different themes, so the systems would have to handle all kinds of music – from jazz to hard rock – and still be a fixed installation,” clarified Ted. “A portable system would just be a hassle to the team so they wanted something hands-free and simple, yet effective”.

With a deadline of two days, it didn't take long for Ted to find that EAW speakers were the right fit for Roundhouse. Dealing with an 8000sq ft venue that contained, an internal bar, external games area, and a garden, Ted split the compound into four 'zones' and decided to keep everything “off the ground”.

This resulted in specifying the SMS series from EAW as it contains a range of two-way loudspeaker systems engineered for surface

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mounting in high-end commercial integration applications. Altogether, 10 x EAW SMS 2.6T 2-Way Compact Loudspeakers are installed within the restaurants three external zones (Outside Patio 1, 2 and Entrance).

All audio is being driven by 2 x ASHLEY KLR 3200 Power Amplifiers. “Essentially, we have created an environment here where the communication systems are compact but the SPL is what the client wanted,” said Ted.

The new face-lift was completed ahead of schedule and ever since, Roundhouse customers are able to enjoy the funky blues and classic rock tunes without having to shout over each other.

Not requiring high sound levels within the last remaining 'Inside' zone, Ted chose 4 x EAW SMS 4990 2-Way Surface Mount Loudspeakers. The SMS4990 speakers come with 4 x 4'' Kevlar low frequency transducers, 1 x 1.3'' high frequency dome tweeter and an overall 90˚ x 90˚ coverage pattern.

“They didn't want a zone controller so instead, we opted to use the iPad mixer software that communicates with the Mackie DLM 806 Mixer to control the zones. The Master fader software is able to connect to a router through an iPhone so sound levels can be controlled wherever you are in the restaurant.”

“We're hoping to one day build up to a live event venue,” announced Wayne. “We are looking to fill that niche that seems to be missing in this part of the country and we needed our systems to help get us there. Not only do the new speakers get the job done, but they also help our customers who travel in from all over the country, really experience the food and ambience together with the right music. No more hand signals!” www.tsbproductions.com.sg www.roundhouse.com.sg

IN A NUTSHELL • Venue: Roundhouse Pizza, Bar & Grill • Location: 100 Turf Club Road, Singapore • Integrator: TSB Global • Equipment: - EAW SMS 2.6T Loudspeaker - EAW SMS 4990 Surface Mount Loudspeaker - ASHLEY KLR 3200 Power Amplifier - Mackie DLM 806 Mixer

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KV2 Strikes Titanium

By Thomas Prakasam

INDONESIA

Owners impressed with KV2's compact boxes providing thumping audio

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itanium Club opened its doors in early December 2014 in Batam, which is one of the largest islands within the Riau archipelago of Indonesia. Batam is also a popular holiday destination for Singaporeans as it is just a 40 minute ferry ride from Singapore. The exchange rate ensures that the Singapore dollar is stretched to make eating, drinking and shopping in Batam more cost effective than back home.

Therefore, it is not surprising that Batam with its abundance of seafood restaurants and duty free shopping, also offers variety in the entertainment scene from pubs, live performances, KTVs and dance clubs.

Muscling into the scene is Titanium Club, opened by a group of young entrepreneurs.

The 900sqm club is able to handle a capacity of 350 pax and is essentially a Dance Club that is located within a shopping mall at Harbour Bay. Jimmi Ho, one of the partners, highlighted, “We expect Titanium to set a standard in Batam and differentiate itself

from the other clubs in the island. Premium service, great ambience, experienced DJs and of course, high performing sound and light is what patrons can expect at the club.” With Electronic Dance Music being the main genre, the club attracts a young and energetic crowd.

The design theme at Titanium is that of an industrial look thus the club features bare walls, floors and ceiling. Some of the walls have industrial pipes as part of the decoration and others feature LED strips.

Long curved couches set against the walls

The Look and Feel

(L-R) The partners, Adrian Hartanto, Hondy Ng, Marianto, Arifin Rusli and Jimmi Ho with Willy Ong of G&J Capital (second from right).

INSTALL March - April 2015

are complemented with tables that have been painted to have a rusty look. Each of the sitting zones with the couches are named after a liquor brand. Sitting in the centre is an elongated 360-degree bar surrounded with bar stools and tables.

Audio Specifications To help translate the shareholders’ objective into reality, Willy Ong of G&J Capital was brought in to advise, design, supply and install the sound and light systems within the venue space.

“The owners wanted high octane pumping sound and that is what I set out to do. After narrowing down my options and listening to some demos, I was convinced that the KV2 speakers would be the right choice for the venue and meet the owners’ objectives.”

other systems, with new levels of clarity, depth and resolution.

Though the focus lies in and around the dance floor, there was still a need to ensure that the music also transmitted to the seating areas, in keeping with the ambience.

To accomplish this, Willy installed 4 x QSC KW122 active speakers as delays. The KW122 packs 2 x 500-watt, Class D power into a compact enclosure. “The KW122 helps fill the venue with its 1000 watts,” said Willy.

The 4 units are strategically placed around the room with one unit placed at the stage but facing the back of the dance floor. This is to enable the sound to penetrate one VVIP space that extends behind the right of the stage.

As Titanium’s music is very much DJ driven, the set-up makes the DJ console area the focus of attention. The DJ console occupies what would generally be the stage area (if a band is performing) in the centre of the venue facing the dance floor so that it is viewable from almost all angles.

Willy configured the audio set-up with 2 x KV2 ES1.0 hung and flown on the left and right of the stage. The ES1.0 is compact, occupies a small footprint and features very high output. The speakers are driven by 2 x KV2 EPAK2500/R amplifiers. Complementing the system are 4 x KV2 ES2.6 subwoofers that are placed on the ground, in front of the stage and stacked as two on each side of the stage. Together with the ES1.0 and EPAK2500/R, the ES2.6 delivers one of the highest dynamic range in comparison to

The KV2 ES2.6 subwoofers

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There are also 4 x of QSC K10 speakers that act as monitor speakers for the DJs. Interestingly, Willie had two of the speakers placed on the stage facing the dance floor.

“We just wanted to add further punch at the dance floor.” (Not that it was needed!)

A 24-channel mixer together with a Pioneer CD-J 200 Nexus and a Pioneer SR mixer and 2 x Shure Beta wireless microphones complete the set up at the DJ console.

Willy added, “When the owners first saw the set-up they were sceptical that the speakers were sufficient to provide the hard thumping sound that they had envisaged. When we drove the speakers at only 40% of its potential, they were blown away with what they heard.”

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SPECIAL FEATURE INSTALL March - April 2015

What’s A Dance Club Without The Visuals

The KV2 ES1.0 speaker

Jimmi reaffirmed, “The audio system met our objectives and the patrons are enjoying the experience, so we have no qualms about the systems in place.”

Jimmi also stressed that renowned DJs from Jakarta as well as from around the world are invited to perform at the club and thus the system had to meet international standards.

Keeping to worldwide practices of EDM clubs where the visual aspect is equally important to the audio aspect, Willy installed an 8m x 2.5m LED panel behind the DJ console.

Comprising of 48 panels, the P6 pitch LED panels help bring the mood of revellers to the next level with zany graphics, messages and videos.

Add to this a mix of lighting fixtures that comprise of strobes, effect and wash and Titanium becomes a Party Capital.

“The only real challenge with this project was the co-ordination aspect between the contractors, designers and myself. As I am based in Singapore, there were quite a number of trips taken to ensure that all of

us were in sync with what we wanted to achieve.”

“Willy was great,” said Jimmi. “He was very helpful and ensured that we could open the club on time. He is very service orientated and as a client that goes a long way for us.”

Willy also wanted a special mention of the great support given to him by Sindo Pte Ltd, who supplied the KV2 and QSC solutions.

“Sindo was great to work with. They took the trouble to ensure that the systems worked accordingly and provided ready assistance and advice whenever I needed it.” www.titaniumbatam.com www.gjcapital.com.sg www.sindoexport.com.sg

IN A NUTSHELL

The QSC K10 speakers

• Venue: Titanium Club • Location: Batu Ampar – Batam • Integrator/Supplier: G&J Capital + Sindo Pte Ltd • Equipment: - KV2 ES1.0 - KV2 EPAK2500/R amplifiers - KV2 ES2.6 subwoofers - QSC KW122 active speakers - QSC K10 speakers - Pioneer CD-J 200 Nexus - Pioneer SR mixer - Shure Beta wireless microphones - 8m x 2.5m LED panel

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SENE Designs & Installs Audio For GIS

Heath Qu32 digital mixing console solution as it met the school’s needs in terms of inputs, outputs and flexibility.

onsistently ranked among the top International Schools in Asia, Garden International School (GIS) provides one of the most comprehensive international British curriculum programs in Asia. Located in Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur, GIS is renowned for its academic excellence, being the largest private co-educational international school in Malaysia with over 2,200 students and its consistent high ranking for international schools in Asia, adhering to the international curriculum of England and Wales.

acoustical treatment for the Music Recital Room. The outdoor sound system for the stadium now consists of, Community R52z and R.25-94z loudspeakers, powered with Ashly KLR power amplifiers.

As part of its expansion and redevelopment, Systems Electronics & Engineering Sdn. Bhd (SENE) provided solutions for several of the spaces within the school compound. After the initial discussion with the school’s sound technician, Karl Taras, SENE designed and installed audio solutions for the spaces.

“We are getting great use out of the field system, more that I would have thought. The feedback from the staff has been very positive and I have shown some of them how to use the new system which is great because it's simple for them to switch on and use even when I'm not around,” commented Taras.

This included the supply of an outdoor sound system for the Stadium, a portable sound system for the Music Department and

Not originally in the planned scope of works, SENE also provided a mixing solution for their multi-purpose hall. We proposed an Allen &

All audio is processed via a Symetrix Jupiter 8 digital signal processor and controlled with an iPad using the Mackie DL806 mixing console. A Furman CN3600SE was used to sequence and protect the various equipment in the system.

Sen, SENE’s Country Manager noted, “The QU-32 also came in at a very competitive price point and offered a lot of value for the price.”

“We were looking at a digital mixing console that had the capability and versatility for our annual drama presentation and other school events. The QU-32 met all of our requirements and since the control room is located within another room in the back of the hall, we find the remote mixing feature using an iPad to be very handy and it also gives us a higher channel count,” said Karl about the QuMix iPad app. www.enepl.com.sg

IN A NUTSHELL • Venue: Garden International School • Location: 16 Jalan Kiara 3, Mont Kiara • Designer/Integrator: Systems Electronics & Engineering Sdn. Bhd • Equipment: - Community R52z and R.25-94z loudspeakers - Ashly KLR power amplifiers - Symetrix Jupiter 8 Digital Signal Processor - Mackie DL806 mixing console (via iPad) - Furman CN3600SE (sequencing) - Allen & Heath Qu32

MALAYSIA

C

“We sat down with Karl and discussed the school’s usage requirements and were certain that the QU-32 would be the perfect solution to meet the school’s needs. It was ideal in terms of size, user friendliness, I/O versatility and of course, the iPad remote control option,” commented Lim Kheong

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AUSTRALIA

Electro-Voice Receives Great Feedback From Football Fans

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he home to the Australian Football League, Patersons Stadium in Western Australia kicked off the 2014 football season with a new Electro-Voice (EV) sound system.

Through acoustic modeling, Bosch's Bryan Davidson determined that the most suitable loudspeaker system for the venue was the combination of EVH 1152, ZX5PI and EVF 1122 loudspeakers, for the variety of differently shaped stands at Patersons. 22 x EVHs were suspended from the seating areas underneath the roof trust firing down to the lower seating bowl.

“The EVH is a fantastic loudspeaker as it maintains pattern control down to 500 Hz, allowing sound to be focused on the targeted audience and kept off the field of play,” commented Davidson.

EVF loudspeakers were chosen for the upper seating level as it only had a short throw distance from source to listener. EV

custom built 120-degree HF dispersion was used to act as a low Q device for the short throw. Additionally, weatherized versions of the EV ZX5 were used for the seating areas underneath the newly installed score board which also has a relatively short throw.

The recent installation of new screens and sound system has provided fans with a state of the art audio visual experience.

All loudspeakers were driven by CPS4.10 multi channel amplifiers and included RCM810 remote control modules. This allowed the loudspeakers and amps, distributed over three rack locations, to be easily monitored and remotely supervised.

“The project was delivered within tight time-frames and installed into a difficult to access Stadium, which reflected the effective planning from Audio Source and Bosch for the project. We are extremely pleased with the quality and consistency of the sound now being produced and, more importantly, we have received great feedback from both the Clubs and fans,” commented Taylor.

The overall combination was considered a great success as reflections were minimised within the stadium thanks to the careful selection of EVH, EVF and ZX5 combination loudspeakers.

In conclusion, Taylor added, “Audio Source and Bosch have delivered a great outcome for the Stadium from both a financial and quality perspective and we thank them for their professional service during the process.”

The general manager at Patersons, Gavin Taylor, was very impressed with the upgrade of the historical stadium. “As stadium operators we are always looking for ways to improve the fans experience at the Stadium.

www.boschcommunications.com.au

IN A NUTSHELL • Venue: Patersons Stadium • Location: Subiaco Road, Australia • Supplier: Bosch Communications Systems • Equipment: - EVH-1152S-FGB - EVF-1122S-FGB - Zx5-90PI - CPS4.10 - RCM-810

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Madame Tussauds Brings Personalities To Life

E&E integrates an interactive experience

BY THOMAS PRAKASAM Part of this experience which may go unnoticed by the visitors is the subtle AV technologies implemented within the venue designed by Thöne und Partner Germany. Not distracting visitors from the main attraction, the audio visual system in place creates an appropriate background environment which makes the overall experience pleasing. Electronics & Engineering Pte Ltd (E&E) who were responsible for the solutions, installation and integration at Madame Tussauds worked in tandem with the consultant and designer for the project Benedikt Koch from Thöne & Partner Germany. E&E was appointed in March 2014 and handed over the project in October 2014.

Image ©SMDB

M

adame Tussauds recently opened its doors at Sentosa, Singapore in November 2014. This is Merlin Entertainments' seventh Madame Tussauds wax museum in Asia and the first to feature a mini boat ride. Madame Tussauds offers visitors a possibility to mingle and take photos with famous personalities. The lifelike figures and the interactive experience within the museum has continued to draw millions all over the world for a close-up with famous personalities.

The Madame Tussauds experience in Singapore starts off with a mini boat ride that showcases Singapore's iconic landmarks.

This is followed by five segments that feature a mix of well-known foreign and local personalities. The different segments include: History and Leaders; Film; Sports; Music

and The A List Party. There is also a segment known as the Authentic History that pays tribute to Madame Tussauds beginnings – a history of sorts.

Renowned for their life-like features, the wax figures take into account the exact height, size and intricate features of their real-life personalities. This in itself creates much appreciation and enthusiasm amongst visitors who keep busy with “selfies” and group photos. Guests are also invited to put on “get-ups” and become part of scenes, especially where the music figures are featured, thus creating an interactive and fun experience as well.

Kicking off the visit is the much-talked about boat ride, which showcases to visitors some of Singapore's icons that includes Marina Bay Sands, Singapore Airlines and more.

As visitors glide through the various icons, audio background, lighting and even visuals help create a fuller experience for them.

Though this part of the AV installation might sound simple, it was actually a little tricky.

The design meant that as the boat made its way slowly passing through specific “icons” a particular ambience is created to match that icon. For example one of the iconic scenes was the F1 circuit – where Samsung monitors showcased scenes from the actual Singapore F1 race with audio background providing the sounds of the cars zooming past.

Image ©SMDB

SING GAPOREE

The Boat Ride

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installed. “The Brightsign HD1020 players provided me with GPIOs which enable me to on and off each player as well as upload content if needed individually as they come with a SD card,” said Freddie. “This makes it easier for us to change content if need be.”

Tailored Solutions The overall sound and visuals throughout Madame Tussauds combined with the locally placed sound effects and sound bits depends very much on triggering. so that the audio or visuals can be kept within its specific area.

Though it comes across as straight forward, just like the boat ride, there were specific considerations that had to be taken into account.

“We had to ensure that the background ambience be it sound, light or visual are perfectly aligned to the ‘scene’ the boat passes through. On top of that we had to ensure that as the boat went from one scene to the other, the effects were also seamless and do not cross-over,” said Freddie Soh, Senior Account Manager at E&E. For this purpose an Alcorn Mcbride V4 Pro show controller was installed together with a Pharoas controller for the lighting.

These were trigged through the Pepperl & Fuchs ultra-sonic sensors that are installed at a designated location to achieve the perfect transition from scene to scene.

As the boat passes through each scene, the sensors trigger the controllers which in turn trigger the respective sound, light and visual equipment. Most of the audio reinforcement in this segment is provided by the Community DS5 speakers.

“They are compact in size which is good as we only had 3 metres of height to install the speakers. In addition due to its compact size we were able to hide them to create a clean look. The DS5 speakers are great as they provide even coverage and suitable level of audio in creating the ambience,” said Freddie.

For the F1 area, the EAW UB 12SI short throw speaker was deployed so as to prevent the spilling of the sound to the next sector.

Another scene included in the boat ride was the Singapore Flyer. The design called for a projection of a family waving to those in the boat. To accomplish this, E&E installed a BenQ MX823ST 3200 ANSI lumens projector.

“We chose this projector model specifically because we had to project the image at a limited distance of 1.6 metres and we only had 2 metres of space to mount the projector within the Singapore Flyer Cabin” Nearing the end of the trip, visitors also get to enjoy a projection of fireworks display. To help project this, 2 x Panasonic PT-DW530 projectors were employed to create as realistic as possible fireworks exploding in the “night sky”.

A MPX 24 track multizone audio player was also engaged for the various audio scenes.

For visual playbacks, Brightsign players were

In the History and Leaders segment, there is a wax figure of HRM Queen Elizabeth. There is also a chair beside the Queen for visitors to sit and take a photo. When a visitor sits on the chair it triggers a fanfare played from a single ceiling speaker directly above the seat to keep it locally.

Over at the Sports segment, the area has triggers that offer cheering sounds if a visitor enters a golf ball in the hole or shoots a basketball into a hoop. A slightly more complicated setup is the simulated football kick. This segment has a Panasonic PT-RW330 LED projector which is installed on the ceiling facing downwards. The projector projects a ball onto the floor. When the visitor “kicks” the ball, it is simulated onto the Samsung 75” display facing the visitor which shows a goalkeeper trying to keep the ball out. An XBOX 360 camera detects the leg movement and triggers the server which is installed with

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run for 100 metres. We only needed a cable run of 70 metres. What was great about the Gefen extender was its smooth transition – no glitches and it worked well.”

The A List Party segment features 4 x EAW 2-way surface mount loudspeakers. This in line with Merlin's requirement that the space be made available for private functions. The EAW SMS 4990 speakers provide high quality sound and controlled directivity. The speakers offer output levels and sound quality normally associated with larger speakers but in a compact form.

the vertigo software that then simulates the ball and the keeper's reaction on the display screen. If you’re good you can score goals!

In the Behind the Scenes segment which is dedicated to the history of Madame Tussauds, there is a wide screen projection of images to complement the story. The big challenge here was the limited amount of space available. The projected screen area is 2.3 metre in height and 6 metre in width.

“We used a Panasonic PT-DZ680 projector with the ET-DLE030 ultra short throw lens.

The images were projected off a reflective mirror onto the screen. This was the only way possible for us to project the required image size due to the constrained space,” commented Freddie.

The Music segment has a stage area where visitors can pretend to play music as a band.

Behind the stage is a 2x2 55” Samsung videowall that plays changeable content.

In another area there are 4 x 32” Samsung panels that are arranged to look like flight cases with different contents being played in each of the units. All these displays add to the overall ambience of the segment and the experience.

The Film area has a simulated production area where visitors can act out their fantasy of being a producer on the Oprah Winfrey show. A 3 megapixel IP camera is directed at Oprah that shows up in the displays at the production area. There was a need for the signal from the camera to be extended to the production area. “We tried a couple of manufacturers extenders and finally settled with the Gefen DVI extender which could

The A List segment also features a Grand Piano which has been rigged so that touching any of the piano keys automatically triggers the piano to play a song – it provides an illusion that a visitor is playing the piano, which of course is a hit with the visitors and especially the children. Simple as it may sound it took the E&E team a number of trials before getting it right.

An actual authentic Grand Piano had to be manipulated so that it sounds like the music was coming out of the piano and not elsewhere. The first challenge was in trying to get the right sensors to trigger the piano to play. There was also a need to ensure that the transmitters and receivers were placed in the best positions so that the trigger was smooth. In addition two units of JBL C50 speakers were placed at the bottom part of the piano very discreetly so that visitors will not be able to see them and the speakers had to fit in within the space and yet provide sound that would recreate how a piano would sound.

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The Symetrix Factor The power and scalability of Symetrix SymNet Radius 12x8 open architecture Dante-scalable DSPs has made them an increasingly popular choice for large-scale visitor attractions and thus not surprisingly it was also employed at Madame Tussauds.

Fully-featured DSP was always going to be integral to the successful deployment of such a complex system. Freddie Soh recalled, “the initial primary requirement of the DSP installation was for traditional analogue audio distribution based on earlier projects.

However, subsequent to that, E&E made the recommendation of a networkable audio distribution infrastructure underpinned

by Audinate’s Dante media networking technology. We knew that it would really add value to the project, and the client agreed to go ahead with this proposal.”

As a long-time Symetrix system user – having deployed its DSPs on such landmark projects as the Singapore Sports Hub – the US-based processing specialist was E&E's first choice.

12 x mic/line inputs, eight line outputs and – critically – support for Dante networking are among the features of the SymNet Radius 12x8 open architecture Dante-scalable DSP, two units of which were specified for the project. E&E also deployed four SymNet xIn 12 audio input expanders.

Regarding the Symetrix components, Koch said: “The introduction of Dante to this project really sets the Museum up for the long-term future, so the originally specified SymNet Radius 12x8s with the add on flexibility Dante offers were a great choice.

The feedback from the completed installation

has been excellent and the client is very happy.”

Hock Thang, regional sales manager, APAC for Symetrix, commented: “The recent Singapore Sports Hub project illustrated how E&E is consistently making the most of SymNet’s Dante networking capabilities. Now they have done it again with this impressive installation at Madame Tussauds Singapore, where the Symetrix DSPs have helped to deliver a world-class audio infrastructure.”

Freddie highlighted, “This is not a traditional AV design – it is an Experience design. The audio aspect was key to the success of the visitors' experience. We had to ensure that we had a reliable DSP processor that could handle the complex routing and filtering

process. As it has a Dante infrastructure, we were able to provide a networkable design and being within the digital realm, it allows to transfer sound from anywhere to anywhere if needed and should we require expandability for the future, the system is scalable.”

Freddie added, “Synchronising of the audio for the various scenes especially where the boat ride was concerned was critical. The challenge was to ensure there is no lag and this is where the Symetrix was critical as it has no latency issue. Programming the system though it was a little complex was easy using the Symetrix Composer software.

We are very familiar with Symetrix solutions as we have installed them for a number of our projects. We knew they would deliver and we were proven right once again.”

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of the project between the consultants and designers with E&E helped us to ensure that everything ran smoothly and helped us to meet the clients’ requirements effectively right down to the handover of the project,’’ commented Joe Fong, Deputy Managing Director, Electronics & Engineering Pte Ltd. www.madametussauds.com www.enepl.com.sg www.thoeneundpartner.de

IN A NUTSHELL

Image ©SMDB

Seamless Experience One important consideration of the integration that Thöne & Partner as well as E&E had to bear in mind was that the attraction did not have technical support staff. In this particular aspect it was understandable as the main attractions are the wax figurines with the AV deployed playing a supporting role. Thus, it was important to ensure that the systems would work seamlessly with minimal interference from the attraction staff.

“We ensured that the entire system is automated. All the AV equipment shuts down and starts up in sequence to ensure that there is no overload that would affect the working of the equipment. They have been programmed with timing so that the attraction staff do not even need to worry about it,” said Freddie.

In addition there are wireless access points all around the venue, which are linked to the Alcon Mcbride show controller network.

“What basically this enables us to do is access the control network from anywhere within the venue and make any necessary adjustments to the AV equipment if needed.

This saves a lot of time as we can adjust settings accordingly and see and hear if it is working right without needing to keep going to the control room. Of course it is all username and password protected to avoid any mishaps.”

Measure of Success “The measurement of success for any AV installation in attractions like the MT is a seamless experience for the guest. Being involved in over 50 projects worldwide over

the past 10 years, Thöne & Partner developed a concept with highest flexibility and very low maintenance issues for the operational team.

E&E did successfully transfer our concept and design to the specific situation on site. With their highly educated and motivated team it was easy and a delight to work with and create a spectacular guest experience,” said Benedikt Koch of Thöne & Partner. He added, “With their continuous reporting system and feedback it was easy and straightforward to find solutions for the few challenges that we had with this installation. The E&E team with its extensive resources covering all fields of AV ensured highly flexible and fast solutions to resolve the issues and that's what makes ground for a great partnership during the process.”

“We at E&E are very proud to be part of the team that contributed to the successful installation of this world class venue in Singapore. The communication channels that were kept open during the full period

• Venue: Madame Tussaud Singapore • Location: Sentosa, Singapore • Integrator/Supplier: Electronics & Engineering Pte Ltd • Equipment: - Symetrix SymNet Radius 12x8 • Boat Ride - Alcorn Mcbride V4 Pro show controller - Pharoas controller - Community DS5 speakers - BenQ MX823ST projector - Panasonic PT-DW530 projector • Sports Segment - Panasonic PT-RW330 LED projector • Music Segment - 2x2 55” Samsung videowall - 32” Samsung panels arranged to look like flight cases • Film Segment - 3 megapixel IP camera - Gefen DVI extender • A List Segment - EAW SMS 4990 speakers - HARMAN JBL C50 speakers

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FOOD-4-THOUGHT March - April 2015

Tired of the everyday industry mambo-jambo? Take a break with us and delve into the world around you. A jukebox of ideas and interesting stories – just scan the QR Codes to stay updated on points of interest that could one day affect you in your personal or work life.

A Singaporean inventor is helping a team create electronic skin that will come with all the features of real skin. By day he is a huge Star Wars fan, by night, Benjamin Tee is one of the ten regional finalists for the annual MIT Technology Review magazine’s 35 Innovators Under 35 list.

There are some questions we will never be able to answer. That doesn’t stop American astrophyscist, Neil deGrasse Tyson from attempting to answer one of life’s most difficult question to a “six-and-threequarter”-year-old boy.

The new removable “smart” wheel from FlyKly, allows you to use your own bike but with the company’s wheel. Want to get where you’re going without building up a sweat? FlyKly may be just right for you.

Deep-frying graphene may be the key to longlasting batteries. South Korean researchers have created highly conductive, stable electrode materials that are makes them far better for transferring electrical charges than plain graphene.

Your smartphone or electric car may last longer now thank to this invention.

Driverless or robot cars will probably become a feature on German roads within a few years, according to a new report. Before this becomes a reality, a draft of the legal guidelines will be presented before the Frankfurt car fair in September. Would you trust a non-human behind the wheel of a car?

After nearly three decades, US scientists may have finally found a new class of antibiotics.

This new discovery could be used to treat illnesses such as tuberculosis which still has no cure. Is this the beginning of a new era in the medical field?

LIVE! March - April 2015

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AUSTRALIA

Martin Audio Tames Taronga

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he Twilight at Taronga concerts in Sydney have become a summer familyouting staple, since they began over ten years ago. This year there are 17 weekend concerts over a two month period, featuring acts such as Rufus Wainwright, Belle & Sebastian and Conor Oberst, along with a number local Australian artists.

For the last three years, Entertainment Installations has been tasked with setting up the concerts, which take place in the middle of an open and crowded Taronga Zoo. The performances will see around 1600 concertgoers each night, picnicking as the sun sets behind the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

The zoo itself sits facing the harbour, within the leafy suburb of Mosman, which means the event planners need to ensure off-site noise doesn’t become an annoyance to neighbours.

“Being a Sydney Harbourside location there are a lot of local residents who you don’t want to disturb with noise. Being located within a zoo, we are also sensitive to the animal residents, which is why we started using [Martin Audio’s] MLA Compact,” observes Entertainment Installations’ MD, Neale Mace.

The company had initially invested in the Wavefront W8C Compact system, but

“[Due to its] ability to fit the audio to a designated area, with very little audio beyond that space, I don’t believe there’s another PA on the market that can deliver the coverage and level that’s required without causing off-site noise.”

- Entertainment Installations’ MD, Neale Mace eventually moved onto Martin Audio’s W8LC line array, which Neale says has solved any off-site noise issues. “[The noise management protocol for the location] asks for an 85dB limit at the perimeter, but we can achieve this and still reach 100dB at the FOH desk,” he said. “[Due to its] ability to fit the audio to a designated area, with very little audio beyond that space, I don’t believe there’s another PA on the market that can deliver the coverage and level that’s required without causing off-site noise.”

Neale and his crew have rigged 8 x MLA Compact elements per side in the PA towers, on 1-tonne chain blocks. Along with two Yamaha CL5 consoles, a number of Martin Audio LE1200 wedges and three DSX subs stage-stacked on each side under the PA hangs.

“This, along with the large complement of W8C, WSX, W8LC and WS218X means we have the biggest Martin Audio inventory in Australia,” Neale boasted.

The MLA system has left a good impression on Twilight at Taronga audiences and (most importantly) with the neighbours.

“I’m told by the Zoo and the promoter that the first year we were involved was the best result they’d had in terms of audio quality, with no noise complaints,” he said.

“We’ve built on that experience over time and tried to make it better every year. Now they are starting to book bigger and better international acts, boosting the popularity of the event, we are getting more promoter representatives, tour managers and other industry people,” Neale continued. “The MLA system is instrumental in that success.” martin-audio.com

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“In my own club, we are dedicated to top quality sound and we only use DPA there because they are by far the most detailed, precise and 'true' microphones on the market. I cannot imagine a concert without them” - Niels Lan Doky

Photography by: Yuka Yamaji

JAPAN

DPA Helps Niels Lan Doky Bring Superlative Sound To Tokyo

Acclaimed jazz pianist devoted to premier microphone brand

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okyo's famous Blue Note club recently played host to Danish Jazz legend, producer and internationally acclaimed pianist Niels Lan Doky, who performed a series of concerts with Swedish singer and actress Edda Magnason. Also on stage were the other two thirds of Niels' Jazz trio drummer Niclas Bardeleben and bass player Ira Coleman, who has also played with Herbie Hancock and Sting.

Key to the success of these concerts was the extensive use of DPA microphones – a brand that Lan Doky insists on using, both on the road and back home in Copenhagen where his own club, The Standard, is fully equipped with DPA.

"It has been two years since I was last in Japan and these concerts, which were a homage to the Swedish actress and jazz singer Monica Zetterlund, were much anticipated and sold out in advance," Lan Doky said. "For this reason it was particularly important that I delivered the best show possible. To achieve this aim I knew that DPA microphones would have to be part of the mix. I have been using DPA microphones on piano since 1993 and since October 2013 I have used them exclusively on all instruments at all of the concerts at The Standard.”

“In my own club, we are dedicated to top quality sound and we only use DPA there because they are by far the most detailed, precise and 'true' microphones on the

market. I cannot imagine a concert without them, and this is why we used them on piano, acoustic bass, drums and Edda's vocals at the Blue Note. These mics are so good that it would be a huge compromise to not have them on recording as well as live."

Niels Lan Doky took his own DPA d:facto Vocal Microphone to Japan, along with his DPA 3521 Cardiod Compact stereo kit to mic the Blue Note's grand piano. The kit, which has now been superseded by the d:dicate 3511ES stereo kit, consists of 2 x d:dicate 4011ES Cardiod Compact microphones in stereo left/right set up.

Lan Doky said: "I also use a DPA d:vote 4099P Instrument Microphone stereo kit for piano,

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“For vocals I swear by this [d:facto Vocal Microphone] microphone..

It combines crispness, warmth and precision, all at the same time” - Niels Lan Doky

close to the piano's soundboard in one of the holes in the sound metal frame. This allows me to blend a direct close mic signal with a warm feel and different touch into the mix."

DPA's Japanese distributor Hibino Intersound supplied the required d:vote 4099P Instrument Microphone for the Tokyo concerts and also supplied an additional d:facto Vocal Microphone, a d:vote 4099B Instrument Microphone for the upright bass and mics for the drums including a d:dicate 2011C Twin Diaphragm Cardiod Compact mic for the bass drum, a d:dicate 4006A Omnidirectional mic that was placed inside the drum kit and a matched pair of d:dicate 4011A Cardiod microphones on overheads.

Ken Kimura, DPA's General Manager for the APAC region noted: "It was very important

to Niels that the stage configuration was the same as it is at The Standard. Hibino Intersound were very happy to supply the additional microphones he needed and to offer on-site support throughout the concerts."

Lan Doky added that while he loves all of his DPA microphones, the one model he simply couldn't live without was the d:facto Vocal Microphone.

"For vocals I swear by this microphone," he said. "It combines crispness, warmth and precision – all at the same time. Vocalist Edda Magnason who played with my trio has a lot of detail in the frequency spectrum of her voice. For her, I can't imagine using any other microphone. We also took it with us for an

appearance on a J-Wave radio show. It is just an amazing vocal microphone."

Niels Lan Doky and his precious DPA microphones are now safely back in Copenhagen and are being put to good use at The Standard. But he is still extolling the hospitality of his Japanese hosts at the Blue Note Club, the support he received from Hibino Intersound and the sheer fun of performing in a city as vibrant as Tokyo.

"It all sounded so good," he said. "We had a fantastic time and want to extend our thanks to Hibino Intersound and DPA for helping us materialize the best possible sounding show at The Blue Note Tokyo." www.dpamicrophones.com

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SOUTH KOREA

EAW Drives League Of Legends World Championship

“Anya was the right technology for the application.. The players, fans and everyone there had a fantastic time” - Audio Consultant, Will Nealie

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he League of Legends World Championship, an annual electronic sports (esports) championship tournament hosted by Riot Games, played out at the Sangnam World Cup Stadium in Seoul, South Korea this year. Top League of Legends teams from Asia, Europe and North America came together to compete for the championship title, the 70 pound Summoner's Cup, and the $1,000,000 champion prize.

Riot Games, the creators of League of Legends – a multiplayer online battle arena video game – tapped 3G Productions to handle audio and video production for the event. 3G Productions in turn worked with Rhinosound, one of South Korea’s largest sound rental companies, for their sound reinforcement needs.

Rhinosound delivered a 32 cabinet EAW Anya PA, 40 x SB subs and a slew of KF730/740s for front fill and extra delays to meet the needs of the event attended by 40,000 people and streamed to another 40 million online.

The opening ceremony was befitting of a world class event with a number of Korean

traditional drummers, an orchestra and special guests Imagine Dragons, who were visiting South Korea for the first time. For closing the popular indy rock band played their most popular hits for the in-person and online crowd.

The biggest challenge that 3G’s Will Taylor faced was determining where to place the PA. It was important to keep the SPL levels on the stage to a minimum in order for the gamers to hear the shoutcasters. Because of the size of the stage, placing them left-right in front of the stage interfered with audience sightlines.

Taylor worked with EAW’s product support team to create a design that positioned the Anya arrays behind the stage and kept the sound levels on the stage low.

Fortunately, Anya receives system parameters via EAW’s Resolution 2 software. The process of tweaking the system did not involve dropping the PA to make adjustments, instead the engineers changed some of the numbers, uploaded the new settings and the system was adjusted to suit the client’s needs.

“The ease in which the system can be modified without a lot of work was particularly advantageous at this event,” noted James Bamlett, EAW Asia. “We were easily able to make adjustments until the sound was exactly where the clients wanted it, and it was simple to do. It is one of the most spectacular features of EAW’s Adaptive Performance gear.”

Once the parameters are input into EAW’s Resolution software, the Anya arrays produce asymmetrical output that delivers coherent, full-frequency range response across the entire coverage area as defined by the user.

In this case, the coverage area was the audience seating, not the stage, and the system performed flawlessly.

“Rhinosound was the local provider for the audio system,” concluded Will Nealie, audio consultant for the event. “Anya was the right technology for the application. Set up time was short, throw distance was long, and expectation was high. Anya met all of the requirements. The players, fans and everyone there had a fantastic time.” www.eaw.com

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SINGAPORE

Students Find Inspiration With Martin Professional

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aking inspiration from a swarm of butterflies in mid-flight, a group of students from the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) developed the unique ‘Flights of Fancy’ display for the 2014 Singapore Night Festival. The installation used the Singapore National Design Centre’s expansive space to bring the one-of-a-kind experience to life with the help of HARMAN’s Martin Professional Exterior 400 LED lighting fixtures.

'Flights of Fancy' was the final project for the University’s 10-week Urban Lighting course where students learned about the effects of both natural and artificial light on space, as well as fundamental design concepts.

According to the SUTD student team leader, Kenickie Cher Jia Jun, Martin Professional fixtures were crucial in bringing the team’s vision to life.

Created by the careful positioning of lights and shadows, ‘Flights of Fancy’ offered unique effects depending on the time of day to ensure no experience was the same—not even for two people standing beside each other. The display featured a large floating sculpture made of hanging dichroic films, a reflective material that the team used to mimic butterflies ascending into the sky. To do this, the SUTD student team needed a large, tall space with white walls and used 8 x Marin Exterior 400s, a MAC 700 Profile, and a MAC 250 Krypton to produce a powerful light for reflections.

“One of the things we liked about the Martin fixtures was our ability to program a dynamic design,” said Kenickie. “The installation

“The dimming and movement of the lighting fixtures truly amplified the colours and the effects of the display. Most observers did not even notice the lights were changing intensity and direction, they thought the effect was simply due to the wind” - Lighting Designer, Shigeki Fujii became ever-changing, and that made the experience unique for each visitor. The strong light source amplified the colours of the reflections and refractions created by the dichroic film, creating the full effect that our team had envisioned from the beginning.”

The Martin fixtures were concealed in two floor boxes below the floating sculpture and programmed to gradually change intensity and direction. Each box contained 4 x Exterior 400 fixtures that provided colour washes that were slowly dimmed and then would brighten over time. “The Martin fixtures were extremely powerful and effective,” said Lighting Designer Shigeki Fujii, the students’ course instructor. “The dimming and movement of the lighting fixtures truly amplified the colours and the effects of

the display. Most observers did not even notice the lights were changing intensity and direction, they thought the effect was simply due to the wind.”

The SUTD team also programmed Martin’s MAC 700 Profile and MAC 250 Krypton moving head fixtures to slowly move across the sculpture. Additionally, the lightweight of the dichroic films and the subtle movement of air throughout the space, paired with lighting effects, helped animate the colour reflections into a sea of shimmering lights.

“Space, material and light source were the three most important components of the design,” said Fujii. “The space had to be white because it need to receive reflected light as a canvas and we also wanted daylight in the space to allow for dramatic effect changes from day to night. The light source had to be powerful and sharp to create crisp reflections on the space as well as programmable to allow us to amplify the dynamic effects.”

According to Fujii, the fixtures were instrumental in helping the student team develop one of the most powerful pieces in the festival, “the students would not have been able to complete their final project without the support of Martin’s team and the outstanding quality of their products!” www.martin.com

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CHINA

L-Acoustics Fires Up DreamWorks’

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reated by DreamWorks Animation, the How to Train Your Dragon Live Spectacular was produced by the storytellers at DreamWorks Animation and Global Creatures. The same masterminds behind the international phenomenon Walking with Dinosaurs, the #1 grossing world tour of 2010. Following its launch in Australia and New Zealand, as well as a successful run in North America, How to Train Your Dragon Live Spectacular landed in China.

Over 145,000 spectators turned out to enjoy the premiere at a newly built theatre on the grounds of the Beijing National Stadium – the famous Bird’s Nest, built for the 2008 Summer Olympics

“54 x KARA in nine groups of six are installed for the three sides, and in using KARA and KUDO, we were able to achieve perfect clarity, intelligibility, and precision, as well as a wide dynamic range,” explained Vincent Zhou, Technical Manager at Rightway Audio Consultants.

Featuring more than a dozen impressive dragons with 40-foot wingspans, the audio challenge for Rightway Audio Consultants and sound supplier Dadong Huahan was to make the dragons sound as impressive as they looked, while also superbly representing spoken voice and song from the cast of the dragons’ human trainers. And all of this had to be done in a theatre with an in-the-round configuration that was full of reflective surfaces. After rigorous tests, an L-Acoustics KARA and KUDO sound system was chosen to make the production soar.

“We especially appreciated KUDO’s customized horizontal directivity, which enabled us to offer a superb audience experience, with crystal clear sound, free of reflections” - Vincent Zhou, Technical Manager, Rightway Audio Consultants

The L-Case hosted LA8 amplifiers directly above the KARA array

“We especially appreciated KUDO’s customized horizontal directivity, which enabled us to offer a superb audience experience, with crystal clear sound, free of reflections; and since both KARA and KUDO offer extended vertical coverage, the arrays provided even sound distribution, guaranteeing coverage from the last row on top, to the lowest row at the front.

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How to Train Your Dragon Live Soundvision was used to work out an accurate acoustical and mechanical simulation of L-Acoustics speaker systems.

“Using Soundvision, we were able to design each of our eleven hangs to perfectly cover our in-the-round configuration. We used a distributed sub system, with an end fire array configuration in the corners to guarantee even low frequency coverage throughout the venue, while reducing excitement from the room and the seating blocks.”

an issue that could have an effect on sound quality. To minimize the damping factor, Rightway suggested the LA8 amplifiers were flown using L-Case.

“L-Case allowed us to place our LA8s directly above the KARAs, so we could connect the arrays closely to the amps and avoid running lengthy cables,” explains Mr He Biao, Chief

Because of the in-the-round theatre set-up, distance between the speaker hangs was

of Dadong Huahan. “We then used the LA Network Manager to monitor and control our entire sound system in real time. It allowed us to make balancing adjustments, and to inspect all enclosures rapidly so we had a flawless performance at each show.”

For Alex Bryson, Head of Audio and Communications at the How To Drain Your Dragon performance team , the LA8 amplifiers provided peace of mind: “The simplistic networking of the LA8 amplifiers proved an efficient tool for system control, timing and tuning.”

“We were very satisfied with the system” summarized Bryson. “There was considerable and constant pressure placed on the audio system to reproduce the various audio performance levels: crystal clear live vocal reinforcement, engaging music, playback and credible SFX needed to be delivered to every single seat in the arena, without forgetting about the rich and wide bandwidth voices of the dragons. The L-Acoustics KARA and KUDO, coupled with the SB28 amplifiers, handled all these tasks simultaneously with ease.

“The simplistic networking of the LA8 amplifiers proved an efficient tool for system control, timing and tuning” - Alex Bryson, Head of Audio and Communications

Photography by Yurun Group

dreamworksdragonslive.com www.racpro.net www.l-acoustics.com

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AUSTRALIA

Photography by Jarrad Seng

Robe BMFLs “Whisper” To Passenger

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K based folk singer / songwriter Passenger’s recent leg of his “Whispers” tour, drew to a close with the acclaimed penultimate leg of the tour in Australia. The stage featured a show design

by James Scott of UK based visual design collective ‘Okulus’, a new collaboration with LD / Visuals designer Louis Oliver.

In Australia, James was able to take advantage of Robe’s latest BMFL Spot moving lights for the first time as part of the rig, which were supplied by MPH Australia, a leading lighting rental specialist.

The rig contained 22 x BMFL Spots and 12 x Robe LEDWash 600s.

The BMFLs were used extensively throughout the performance for key and back lighting, with some positioned on the floor for eyecatching ‘aerial sculpture’ moments.

It was the first time that James had used BMFLs on one of his own shows – having first seen them demonstrated by Robe UK’s Amy Schofield at Hammersmith Apollo, where the

UK leg of the tour ended with two sold out shows. As soon as he saw the capabilities, he was keen to incorporate some units into the show … for which he had to wait until Australia!

He was delighted with the results and loves the crispiness and clarity of the optics and zoom range … amongst many other features, and his expectations were definitely “exceeded” once he had a few gigs under his belt.

The Passenger show included subtle projections onto five upstage gauze columns, and James found himself having to inhibit the BMFLs down to make sure that the projection wasn’t washed out by their extreme brightness … even when using the darkest and most saturated colours.. in the lowest lamp power mode…

8 x BMFLs and 6 x 600 LED Washes were floor mounted on eight different height white wooden plinths positioned in an arc surrounding the down stage mic position.

With three more on either side of the stage

on booms at the front providing main key lighting onto the artist.

“The LEDWashes are a very flexible fixture, they are ideal for key light because you can force virtually any colour out of them and still maintain good skin tone for the cameras,” he commented, also recalling a DVD shoot earlier on the tour at London Hammersmith when the camera crew and DOP were looking at the key-light and, seeing it was LED, ordered a set of conventional profiles as back-up!

As it turned out, with the quality and flicker-free operation of the LEDWashes, the conventional profiles weren’t even taken out of their boxes!

Designing the Passenger tour was an intelligent and precise blend of lighting and video. Lighting needed to augment and work alongside the projections whilst also be powerful enough to kick in and change the whole feel of the performance space when the video was not running.

LIVE! March - April 2015

With 22 x BMFLs in the rig, James had all the tools he needed to ensure this happened with finesse and to great effect.

Passenger’s video content was created by Sarah Larnach, who also produced the album artwork and all the drawings and media was formatted by Lydia Baker of Screen Light Design in the UK and run from a Catalyst laptop provided by Meadia which did the whole tour.

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Lighting was programmed on a grandMA Command Wing which also travelled with James and the touring crew throughout the seven month world tour.

batch of BMFLs in January, making them the largest stockist in the country right now!

They were supplied via Robe’s Australian distributor ULA Group.

In Australia, MPH’s lighting Crew Chief was Michael Parsons. James said, “Michael and the MPH team were fantastic – it was a real pleasure to work with all of them”.

The Passenger tour started in summer 2014 with the launch of the ‘Whisper’ album, and most of it has featured Robe moving lights, including the three month UK and European section, with MMX Spots and Robe 600s supplied by rental company Siyan.

MPH has invested heavily in Robe moving lights and has just taken delivery of its second

www.robe.cz

“..a very flexible fixture, they are ideal for key light because you can force virtually any colour out of them and still maintain good skin tone for the cameras..”

- James Scott, on the Robe LEDWashes

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AUSTRALIA

TDC Brings Visions

Barco projectors create visual spectacular

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ideo services and expertise from TDC – Technical Direction Company wowed audiences across the world in Visions of Vienna – a multi-media artistic collaboration between the Vienna Tourist Board and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra (SSO). SSO live in concert was combined with visuals celebrating the artistic and musical heritage of Vienna from Ample Projects and projected onto the roof or “sails” of the Sydney Opera House and broadcast to music lovers across the world in a live web-stream.

“Having worked with Michael Hassett and his expert projection design team already back in the 90’s, we knew we could turn to TDC again for another unforgettable visual spectacular.

TDC are a dream-team to work with,” enthused Astrid Mulholland-Licht, Director of the Austrian National Tourist Office in Sydney.

World-Class Music And Live Video Projection “During design, TDC’s team of creative and technical experts created a content template so that Ample Projects and the Sydney Opera House Recording and Broadcast Studios were all working from the same plan. This also helped to save time on site.

We worked closely with the Sydney Opera House production team and other suppliers to overcome any technical issues,” explained Olin Winton, Technical Manager at TDC.

“Depth of field and maintaining a sharp focus across multiple stacked projectors can be a challenge but that was solved using a well thought-out projection plan!”

- Olin Winton, Technical Manager @ TDC

Fourteen cameras captured a performance by the SSO of glorious Viennese music.

Viennese-inspired 3D animations designed

by Ample Projects celebrated the Austrian capital’s rich artistic heritage.

Projection of artistic content posed several technical design challenges including building size, long throw distances, a busy Sydney Harbour port in the projection path, and multiple microwave broadcast links. TDC

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Of Vienna To Life Photography by TDC (Technical Direction Company)

provided one of the industry’s brightest, high-resolution projectors supported by powerful high-performance media serving technology.

“A finely tuned methodology developed over a number of years has led to locating specific projection locations to project over the ferries and cruise ships that come into port.

Isolated projection platforms are designed for long projection throw distances. Additionally, multiple signal transmission paths, HD signals as well as communications, embedded audio for broadcasters were located at the Sydney Opera House,” explained Winton.

“Having worked with Michael Hassett and his expert projection design team already back in the 90’s, we knew we could turn to TDC again for another unforgettable visual spectacular” - Astrid Mulholland-Licht, Director of the Austrian National Tourist Office in Sydney.

TDC ensures fail-safe systems design for all their projects. “Main and backup systems comprised two way microwave link for transmission path. Audio path was retransmitted via microwave and RF to viewing sites with the audio delay added as needed,” added Winton.

“The smooth lines and white surface of the iconic Sydney Opera House are great to work with,” explained Winton. “Depth of field and maintaining a sharp focus across multiple stacked projectors can be a challenge but that was solved using a well thought-out projection plan!”

Iconic Architecture Meets Technology

The free to attend event was organised on behalf of the Vienna Tourist Board. The concert – Greatest Hits from Vienna – was held at 8pm on 4 February 2015 inside Concert Hall and was conducted by Ola Rudner and feature soprano Elisabeth Flechl as soloist.

The Sydney Opera House is an architectural masterpiece and the most internationally recognised symbol of modern Australia.

It is one of the world’s busiest performing arts centres and a core part of the national cultural fabric.

www.sydneysymphony.com www.tdc.com.au

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EGYPT

PR Lighting Has A Taste For Egypt

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i-Lights Egypt are using more than 800 fixtures from the PR Lighting catalogue to create the ambience on one of the Egypt's most popular TV cookery programmes: The Taste Egypt.

The largest rental company in Egypt, HiLights became involved from the outset, working closely with both SYNC-MEDIA, the production company, and lighting designer Fouad Haddad of Hand Made Image (HMI).

The programme is a worldwide franchise and although the production format had been pre-arranged, according to Hi-Lights Egypt’s Hamad Arafa his company “had no problem in convincing the LD that PR Lighting fixtures would fulfil all his requirements — particularly after undergoing camera tests to demonstrate colour temperature, CRI etc.”

The schedule of equipment deployed on the set — which was built in one of the principle studios of Al Nahar TV — included 80 of PR Lighting’s recently launched LED Studio 3200D zoom Fresnels (with barndoors), which had been purpose-designed for the TV studio environment. It incorporates a

“..had no problem in convincing the LD that PR Lighting fixtures would fulfil all his requirements..”

- Hamad Arafa, Hi-Lights Egypt high-power 200W LED light source, with high luminous efficiency and high colour rendering index, as well as wide beam angle.

Elsewhere the set features no fewer than 500 x XPar 336-W (with 36 x 3W white and amber LEDs), as well as 24 x PR 5000 high power discharge spots, 120 x XR 200 Beam, which produces a parallel, high output laser-like ‘pencil’ beam from just a 189W lamp source, and 72 x XLED 1037, containing 37 x 10 W

RGBW (4-in-1) LEDs , with a wide beam angle ranging from 13 to 52°.

Other small LED fixtures were used for other areas of the set, such as inside the kitchens.

The show is recorded in front of a live studio audience and broadcast at prime time in front of millions of viewers. www.pr-lighting.com

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HONG KONG

Shure Delivers Perfection For Sammi Cheng

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fter many years of absence, Sammi Cheng, the Queen of Reinvention, finally returned to the stage and kicked off her "Touch Mi World Tour" in Hong Kong last year. To guarantee flawless audio performance throughout the whole tour, Sammi’s sound engineering team turned to Shure Axient Wireless Management Network and PSM1000 Personal Monitor System. The topline wireless systems have already delivered stable transmission and outstanding live audio quality during the first leg of Sammi’s tour, which included 12 consecutive concerts hosted at the Hong Kong Coliseum between February 2014 and January 2015.

Axient’s Automatic Frequency Selection, the probability of interference from conflicting frequencies is virtually zero."

Frankie Hung, sound engineer in charge of the tour, knows all about the importance of using the right equipment to achieve the best possible audio results. He provides a look behind the scenes of Sammi Cheng’s Touch Mi World Tour and shared his experience with Shure.

The live sound team has also been very satisfied with Axient's Advanced Power Management. The ATX900 Rackmount Charging Station charges and stores all bodypack and handheld batteries used during the tour. It also displays a detailed status of all batteries, including their remaining power in hours and minutes, time until full charge, capacity, and battery health.

Axient Wireless Management Network in Action When asked about the most memorable function of the Axient Wireless System, Frankie Hung said "I think the most convenient feature is the ShowLink Access Point wireless remote control function. It allows to adjust microphone parameters without having to physically bring the microphone backstage. We usually calibrate the gain of the microphones during rehearsals, and especially if the performer wears a bodypack transmitter, it’s always an inconvenience to remove it for configuration.

ShowLink creates a wireless network link between the transmitter and receiver and allows us to remotely adjust the transmitter parameters in real-time. It’s a great feature."

Frankie also mentioned that the concert schedule is very tight, filled with performances almost every day. Using the Shure Wireless Workbench 6 (WWB6) Software enables the team to keep a continuous watch over the wireless environment at the concert venue. "It is really convenient to being able to scan the environment during the preparation works.

We can easily check for available as well as unavailable frequencies, and make sure to avoid the latter in advance. Thanks to

Apart from the Axient system used for Sammi’s performances, the sound team also uses more than 20 channels of the Shure UHF-R Wireless System for guest performers, chorus, and string quartets.

Utilizing the WWB6 Software to manage all channels, even from different wireless systems, dramatically increases the efficiency of system setup and maintenance by quickly and precisely calculating the clearest and safest available primary and backup frequencies.

Frankie further pointed out the long-lasting performance and convenience of using rechargeable batteries: "The charging time

"I think the most convenient feature is the ShowLink Access Point wireless remote control function.

ShowLink creates a wireless network link between the transmitter and receiver and allows us to remotely adjust the transmitter parameters in real-time. It’s a great feature."

- Frankie Hung, Sound Engineer.

Sound Engineer for Sammi Cheng, Frankie Hung.

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“The directional performance of condenser microphones isn’t usually that good so they pick up a lot of environmental noise. I was very surprised by the KSM9HS however. The sound was a lot clearer than any other condenser vocal microphones I've used in the past.”

- Frankie Hung. is very short, and the durability of the rechargeable lithium-ion batteries is a lot better than that of ordinary AA batteries.

Also, it can sometimes be difficult to purchase large quantities of batteries at tour stops in cities we don't know well. The rechargeable batteries are not only hasslefree, but also a great time and cost saver.”

what the guest performers are listening to, Sammi’s mix, and so on. I think CueMode makes audio monitoring much easier because the engineer can select which output he wants to listen to by simply changing the channel on his bodypack, without having to take off his headphones. This is a real breakthrough.”

PSM1000 Personal Monitor System in Action Sammi Cheng’s concerts include extensive choreography, even involving elevating stage elements which rise up to great heights during the concert. This makes reliable transmission very important and it’s critical to ensure clear monitoring for performers at all times.

The RF mute function is another useful tool for the concert's preliminary calibrations during rehearsals. It allows the monitoring engineer to mute the singer's earphones and set up the equipment without irritating the singer.

Frankie commented: “We haven’t been worried about dropouts at all while we’re using the PSM1000 Personal Monitor System and its Diversity Bodypack Receivers. Each bodypack carries two separate antennas, so even if the wireless signal becomes poor or noisy on one antenna, the second antenna simply takes over the reception.

This feature significantly boost signal quality and automatically resolves any kind of interference issues. With PSM1000, the performers haven’t reported any reception problems, which used to be a frequent occurrence in the past.”

PSM1000's CueMode is another feature wellliked by the monitoring engineers. It allows them to use a single bodypack receiver to monitor up to 20 different mixes. Frankie reflected on his experience at the Hong Kong Coliseum: "During the show, the engineer has to pay attention to the mixing console,

Same as the Axient system, the PSM1000 also runs on rechargeable batteries. Actual use showed that the SB900 smart rechargeable lithium-ion battery can run continuously for 10 hours. This is far more than the 6-hour performance of ordinary AA batteries.

Details such as the battery service life and charging cycle can also be tracked with greater precision, providing more accurate information for the user and giving additional confidence in the whole system’s reliability.

Wireless System Audio Quality Sammi Cheng uses one headworn as well as two wireless handheld microphones on her tour, including a custom red, Swarovski crystalized handheld microphone to complement her different outfits and glamorous performances.

The handheld transmitters were fitted with a KSM9HS premium condenser microphone cartridge capable of capturing the slightest vocal nuances. It can be configured with

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hypercardioid and subcardioid pick-up pattern, making it particularly well-suited for live concerts. "For a concert at a location like the Hong Kong Coliseum, where the stage is in the center of the venue, I normally wouldn’t even consider giving the performer a condenser microphone, due to its sensitivity and the sheer amount of audio feedback that would be generated,” commented Frankie. “The directional performance of condenser microphones isn’t usually that good so they pick up a lot of environmental noise. I was very surprised by the KSM9HS however. The sound was a lot clearer than any other condenser vocal microphones I've used in the past.”

As for the sound quality of the PSM1000 Monitor System, Frankie did his own comparison and found the following: "We compared the sound from the PSM1000 with the source and I must admit that the sound transmitted and received through the wireless monitoring system was basically identical to the source. When you match PSM1000 with the SE846 Sound Isolating Earphones, the quality is so good, it’s like wearing a set of very large studio monitoring headphones.

Building on the great success of the first stop of Sammi Cheng’s concert tour, the Pop Diva is now looking forward to continuing her Touch Mi World Tour with many more exciting performances in China, Taiwan, Singapore, and Malaysia in the coming months, backed by the great support of her sound engineer Frankie Hung and Shure Wireless Microphone and Personal Monitoring Systems. www.shure.com

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LIVE! March - April 2015

THAILAND

Symetrix Is The Match For ‘Phenomenal’ Thai Live Production

T

he story of the Mahajanaka and its central message that perseverance is integral to achieving Buddhahood is one of the most sacred texts in the Buddhist religion. It has been told in many different ways over the centuries, but for a spectacular recent live production in Thailand, the country’s long-serving monarch, H. M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej, called for an interpretation that would be easily intelligible to contemporary audiences.

The result was a multimedia spectacular founded on the contribution of Mr. Team Productions and Fuzion Far East Limited.

Utilising a variety of cutting-edge A/V equipment, Mahajanaka the Phenomenon Live Show helped to mark His Majesty’s 87th birthday and was staged at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre besides the Lake of Benjakiti Park from December 1-20, with 200,000 people watching.

Free to attend, the hugely popular show made use of six core audio brands – Symetrix among them. A Symetrix SymNet Radius 12x8 open architecture Dante-scalable DSP and single SymNet xOut 12 expander delivered robust, reliable processing throughout each and every performance of the 75-minute show.

For Mr. Team Productions, Pok Sutat Kohkiat explained that the company has been using Symetrix products consistently since 2001 and had no doubt that one of its favourite models from the range – the SymNet Radius

DSP – would again prove the match for the demands of this high-profile production.

“The key features of SymNet Radius 12x8 that have particularly impressed me are its scalability, networking capability, vast choice of modules, and its excellent sound quality,” he explained. “Once again, our customers loved the performance that this Symetrix DSP provided.”

Alongside the Symetrix DSP, the other fundamental parts of the Mahajanaka the Phenomenon Live Show audio specification included DiGiCo digital mixing consoles, a NEXO loudspeaker system, Camco amplifiers, Sennheiser in-ear monitors and wireless microphones, and Genelec monitors.

Public reaction was reportedly enthusiastic to a production that delivered a very special treat for its December 20th performance – a special jazz set featuring world class musicians such as guitarist Larry Carlton, vocalist/pianist Diane Schuur and guitarist/ singer John Pizzarelli. For this performance, a separate FOH and monitoring system featuring 2 x DiGiCo SD8 consoles and 24 x NEXO PS 15 speakers was drafted in before the stage was reset for Mahajanaka the Phenomenon Live Show. www.symetrix.co www.mrteam.co.th www.fuzion.co.th

“The key features of SymNet Radius 12x8 that have particularly impressed me are its scalability, networking capability, vast choice of modules, and its excellent sound quality.”

- Pok Sutat Kohkiat, Mr. Team Productions.

HaAavve U Met...?

March - April 2015

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By Elissa Nadine

Not being able to distinguish the lines between engineer and musician, Arron Jardine found his career during music class in high school. Nowadays, not only is he the owner of his own installation company, but after 11 years, he maintains the title of lead guitarist in his high school Top 40s cover band. As a Permanent Resident in Singapore, the 31-year-old shares why he “can’t imagine doing anything else”, and how Asia will always be his home..

You have a very interesting “origin” story on how you ended up in Singapore...

Arron: Well, I've been a Permanent Resident in Singapore since 2008. On top of that, I currently hold 3 different passports. Haha..

I was born in Trinidad and Tobago and migrated to Canada when I was 5 where I became a citizen. My mother was from Glasgow, Scotland so through her I applied for a British Passport as well. I've lived in Singapore since I was 16 years old. I grew up here and this is where I became an adult. For me, I'm more familiar with this country and I've lived here longer than anywhere else in my life. So it's home for me.

How did you get your start in the industry?

Arron: In school, I always had a passion for sound and I also had a knack for being behind the mixer. I loved doing recording and live sound, plus I was a musician at the time [high school] so audio became this thing that I ended up doing because nobody else in the band knew how to do it.

Once I got that first live gig of having thousands of people roaring for one band, I was hooked and that was it.

The name of your band originates from the Latin phrase “Tabula Rasa”. Tell us more..

Arron’s pooch, Hendrix, couldn’t resist joining the photoshoot

Arron: We now call ourselves Tabula, but I remember I came across the phrase in school. It actually means 'clean slate' in English. It's basically the opposite of fate. It stipulates that any interactions, questions or any kind of decision you make in your life, changes the outcome of your future. I liked the meaning

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HaAavve U Met...?

March - April 2015

you can't. Even if your client gets pissed at you for no reason, no matter what you have to put on a happy face and try and cater to them as much as possible. If that has never happened to you, you're not in the audio industry.

In a country as small as Singapore, does competition become a problem among engineers?

behind it and I thought it was a cool name, so that's another thing that just stuck.

As an engineer, what is your weapon of choice?

Arron: That's a hard one to answer. I would choose the DigiCo SD7 and dshow Venue from DigiDesign. They are some of my favourite consoles so far because of their flexibility more than anything else. I enjoy the fact that you can load up a show file and just go. Nothing else is needed.

If you could switch places with anyone for a day, who would it be and why?

Arron: Pooch Van Druten... He has a very complex job and he mixes for bands like Linkin Park. I heard one of his shows and it was just mind-boggling. He has this kind of drive and set-up whereby he's now using a DiGiCo SD7 and he's running WAVs plugins on it through his server and he's mixing the style that I'm always striving to get. I just want to sit behind his desk and just do his job.

What is Tabula Pte Ltd?

Arron: Tabula Pte Ltd is my company that specialises in Live Sound Engineering and Audio Consulting & Installation. We're not aďŹ&#x192;liated with any manufacturers, so you can say we're "customisable for the client needs".

This includes budgets and systems. I find out what the customer wants and I work around a budget and brand with them to get the quality of sound within the budget they want.

This allows me to listen to customers needs as opposed to just selling them a particular brand that I have. I work with distributors, retailers, outlets, so I'm not cutting anyone out.

Do you consider yourself successful?

Arron: Ha.. That's a funny question. I wouldn't say so just yet. For me, success is creating a name or brand for yourself.

If the majority of people understand your brand and who you are then that, for me, is considered success. I haven't reached there yet because some people know me and others don't. It is what it is.

How do you plan to reach your definition of success?

Arron: I'm in the midst of trying to organise a niche service. I'm planning on moving into a dedicated in-ear monitor system that's portable and that can cater to live bands and performances. I want to provide a service and record, at the same time, so it will be like providing a monitor engineer in a monitor system that is portable that supplies sounds for the whole band.

Isn't that already being done?

Arron: Yes, but not in the size I plan to.

Normally, you would need to have one or two desks and if you're using one desk to split the channels, it becomes pretty diďŹ&#x192;cult. There are a lot of variables so I want to come in and help to remove those variables and do it all in one shot. This helps the clients because they save on the cost of one board therefore, it's cheaper. Also, I'll be using a one rack portable unit that allows me to split all the channels and also have digital returns - all through a network.

A lot of people don't understand what audio engineers do. Have you ever lost your cool when it comes to a customer?

Arron: There are times where you feel like screaming your head oďŹ&#x20AC; at some people but

Know someone with a great story? Let us know by sending an email to: elissa@spinworkz.com

Arron: If you're dedicated to this industry, especially in Singapore, there's more opportunities in a way. You can strive and become really good and you can really stand out. In this industry, especially with the audio engineers, we stick together. You come together for gigs to help each other out, so it's like we share the work and if someone can't make it, we pass gigs on through a chat group that we have. So its a really really small network where people come together to help each other out.

Have you ever wanted to experience the audio market outside of Asia?

Arron: I've thought about moving to Los Angeles [USA], and diving into the industry there. But, I have too many investments here and my network is here. I would have to start from scratch and I've already made so many connections here and know so many people here that I would rather just stay here.

If I wasn't a __, I would be a __?

Arron: I can't even answer that! I've only been this. I've got the best job in the world! I wouldn't change a single thing.

What do you want to be remembered as?

Arron: A nice guy. You know how some people just do it for the job, and it comes across as just a job? I want to be the guy who does the job but is really nice doing it.

I want to become that buddy, that guy who is reliable and responsible but also just very chilled and fun to be around with.

D1