Entertainment Technology Asia November-December 2011 by Spinworkz Pte Ltd

Nov | Dec 2011

MICA (P) 045/09/2011 KDN: PPS 1663/08/2012 [022804]

Meyer Sound enriches Great Mountains Music Festival

Fine Art at the 26th Summer Universiade

Synergy AVL lights up Merlion Park

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CONTENTS

VOL 12 ISSUE 6

MICA [P] 045/09/2011 KDN: PPS 1663/08/2012 [022804]

NEWS 10

Essential news from the industry

ENNOVATIONS 34

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend an audio, video and lighting exhibition held in China. As I walked through the halls of the exhibition centre, I noticed that there were very few European companies participating in the exhibition. Most notably, the top European lighting companies were not present. Some industry insiders have suggested to me that the main reason why European companies were reluctant to exhibit their products in China was because some Chinese companies would make cheap copies of them. The infringing of intellectual property rights is one of the main problems faced by European audio and lighting companies in Asia. The problem has become so rampant that Robe Sales Director Harry von den Stemmen confided to me that some Chinese companies were even using Robe’s original brochures to market their copies of Robe’s products. There are no quick solutions to this problem and the top European executives I have spoken to admit that their options are limited. Robe CEO Josef Valchar has stated that Robe will take legal action against anyone who tries to copy Robe’s Robin Series or any of their new products. However, Soren Storm, Managing Director of Martin Professional Singapore, does not think that legal action is the answer. He feels that innovation is best way to deal with the problem. Another person who doesn’t think that legal action will work is Powersoft ’s Head of Global Sales, Luca Giorgi. “Normally, we try to talk directly to these companies to verify if they will stop doing it,” he said. Exhibition companies are also making a concerted effort to tackle the problem. For instance, the organising committee of Palm Expo China took steps to discourage intellectual property infringements at this year’s show. A handbook on trademarks and patents was published and distributed to all visitors to create awareness about intellectual property protection. In addition, all exhibitors were required to sign a contract to declare that they had understood the measures for protecting intellectual property rights during the show. In spite of this, it seems that the only effective way to deal with this problem is for end-users to stop buying products from companies who infringe on intellectual property rights. This may be a challenge because the copies made by these companies are usually sold cheaper than the originals. However, if end-users can be convinced that the long-term effects caused by intellectual property infringements are much worse that the short-term benefits derived from buying them, the industry may finally be able to come to grips with this highly controversial issue. James Bose Editor james@spinworkz.com

A round-up of new products in the market

MANAGEMENT PERSPECTIVES 42

Josef Valchar, General Manager, CEO, Robe lighting s.r.o

Fabiano Besio, Co-Founder, Luci Della Ribalta (LDR) srl

IN PROFILE 46

Powersoft targets Asian Expansion

EXHIBITION REVIEW 48

Prolight + Sound Shanghai 2011

PLASA 2011

INSTALL 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 68 69 70 71 72

Phantom of the Opera returns with Digico D.A.S. Audio at China’s Dongpo Theatre Gallery “Splendid Central Plains” selects FBT Arup chooses NEXO for SOTA Renkus-Heinz at the Dubai International Swim Stadium Martin Lighting Mystic at Kingdom of Dreams Gold Coast Nightclub boasts 161 QSC CMX amplifiers Sydney’s Knox Grammar School picks K.M.E. Allen & Heath selected for new Saudi Arabian university IC Live delivers for two Qatar soccer stadiums Custom ‘SPECKS’ for the ‘Pullman’ Dubai Mall of the Emirates Synergy AVL lights up Merlion Park Leading New Zealand school installs iLive

Modern Tannoy solutions for historic Indian theatre

LIVE 73 74 75 76 77 79 80 80

Jands Vista M1 survives Immersion ETC Element has its turn in the spotlight Meyer Sound enriches Great Mountains Music Festivals MILOS for the Makkah Awards for Excellence Showtec at the World Netball Championships Martin Audio’s MLA has a field day DTS lights up Studio Festi Fine Art at the 26th Summer Universiade

Publisher/Editorial Director Thomas Richard : thomas@spinworkz.com | Editor James Bose : james@spinworkz.com | Admin & Circulation Julie Tan : admin@spinworkz.com | Contributing Consultant Pushpa Veerappan | Freelance Correspondent Clarence Anthony, Audrey Anne Felix | Design & Productions By Jimmy Chin : jimmy@spinworkz.com | Printed By : Print & Print Pte Ltd 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 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.

NEWS

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Broadcast Professional to increase Green Hippo distribution

Samantha Bailey is very confident in Broadcast Professional’s ability to develop Hippotizers in the region.

Singapore: John Paul Tan, Product Manager at Broadcast Professional Singapore, has worked with Hippotizers for the past three years and having experienced the developments in the product over this time both Tan and his team are well versed with the hardware and software.

Recently, Broadcast Professional and its sister company, Electronics & Engineering Pte Ltd, invested in an additional seven demonstration units for their three overseas oﬃces. Their oﬃces in Malaysia and Indonesia have each been furnished with a Hippotizer HD, a HippoCritter and a GrassHopper. The headquarters in Singapore already had a Hippotizer HD and a HippoCritter. A GrassHopper has now been added to complete their demo stock.

team in place and with the value added to our product range by the Hippotizer media servers, we have all the necessary resources to pull this rabbit out of the hat.” The most recent success was the sale of two GrassHopper units to Kumar Shan and Yeap Hong Gee who were also trained by Broadcast Professional and immediately went on to program and operate the Mercedes GP Petronas Formula 1 team party at the Malaysian Grand Prix earlier this year.

With this line up, Broadcast Professional is set to demonstrate and promote Hippotizer media servers all over Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. They hope to cater for clients from all types of markets with varied needs in regards to functionality and features. Plans are under way to focus on several markets including event companies, places of worship, fixed installations within entertainment venues, places of interest as well as educational institutions. There are specific plans to train students in the three territories. Broadcast Professional will also oﬀer training courses to their customers in their newlyequipped oﬃces.

Green Hippo’s Samantha Bailey explained, “Broadcast Professional has been established since 1983 and has the backing of their sister company Electronics & Engineering which just celebrated its 60th anniversary. As such we feel they are strategically placed to grow the business and with the strong and enthusiastic team they have, we are very confident in their ability to develop Hippotizers in their region. The recent push on demo stock means they have showrooms and back-up units to provide first line support in all regions for Hippotizer customers. It’s a great move.”

Tan comments, “This sounds like a tough nut to crack but with our new management and

www.green-hippo.com www.broadcastpro.com.sg www.enepl.com.sg

Green Hippo holds successful Asian Distributor Seminar International: In August, Green Hippo held its first Asian distributor seminar in the UK. The timing was chosen to conclude the company’s recent push to expand their dealer structure in Asia and was attended by partners from China, Japan and Southeast Asia. The four-day seminar gave everyone at Green Hippo and their Asian partners a chance to meet face-to-face. Green Hippo’s Marketing & Sales Director James R. Heron kicked-oﬀ the workshops with a general company overview and an update on recent developments. Subsequently, everyone received a full day of HippoSchool training with Green Hippo’s head of training, Simon Harris, covering all the major features of the Hippotizer media server range including the new LiveMask and UberPan components. Broadcast Professional’s Product Manager John Paul Tan commented, “The training workshop was awesome. It was concise and the trainers were very interactive.” Days two and three were spent with Green Hippo’s specialist technical support team

introducing everyone to the server’s hardware components and main troubleshooting topics. Kupo Shanghai Co., Ltd’s Kane explained, “We have learned a lot through this training. It will help us to deal with problems and questions our clients may have.” Green Hippo has seen a promising succession of recent sales with the newly extended distributor network. Furthermore, strong predictions for the future as well as new projects already in the pipeline provide an encouraging outlook for the coming months. Some evening entertainment was also organised and, in between dinner and drinks, Green Hippo’s visitors were treated

to London’s ‘We Will Rock You’ musical at the Dominion Theatre, which is successfully employing Hippotizer media servers. Green Hippo Sales Manager Samantha Bailey concluded, “It was great to have all our partners at the distributor event, not just for the technical training and new features but for the opportunity to strengthen relations and introduce them to the whole Green Hippo team. The event was a real success and will definitely be repeated across the whole distribution network. www.green-hippo.com

NEWS

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Clockaudio expands SEA Oﬃces and appoints Regional Sales Manager in the central east district of the city and an upgrading of the facility to full regional oﬃce status.

Robert Juliat at Systems Integration Philippines 2011

The accelerating growth rate across the region has also resulted in the appointment of Han as Regional Sales Manager. Han joins Clockaudio from Audio-Technica SEA where he was Business Development Manager, Pro Audio Division. Prior to that he was Account Manager, Solution Sales at Spectrum Conferencing Pte Ltd, a key systems integrator and AV supplier in the region.

Jon Han, newly appointed Clockaudio Regional Sales Manager SEA

Singapore: Clockaudio has announced that it is expanding its Southeast Asia regional oﬃce in Singapore after only a year of operation. It has also announced the appointment of Jon Han to the newly created position of Regional Sales Manager Southeast Asia. Clockaudio established a regional support oﬃce in Singapore in July last year. The company’s regional expansion has necessitated a move to much larger premises

Commenting for Cloackaudio, International Sales and Marketing Manager Rod Geary stated, “South-East Asia is a rapidly expanding and a hugely important market for us, where our products and solutions are being specified in numerous highly prestigious projects. The move to a full regional sales oﬃce has been rapid and I am very happy to welcome Jon Han to the new regional sales position. He comes to us with extensive knowledge of the professional audio market, and in particular, expertise in integrated conferencing and professional AV solutions.” www.clockaudio.com

Full OCA Alliance membership for Yamaha International: The professional audio manufacturer Yamaha has become the ninth full member of the OCA Alliance.

the entire range of future professional media equipment, ranging from the smallest to large-scale applications.

The OCA Alliance was formed to ensure the standardisation of the Open Control Architecture (OCA) for a wide interoperability of professional audio equipment. Since its formation in June this year the members have been working towards a final technical definition of OCA.

The goal is to create an open public standard for professional media network systems. Phase one, completion of technical documents and transfer of the results to an accredited public standards organisation will be restricted to the full members of OCA. Other interested companies are welcome to join as observers and will be able to join as active members in the second phase of the standardisation process.

As with all the other members, the Yamaha Corporation was initially approached by Bosch, the initiator of the OCA Alliance, to discuss how to overcome the challenge of interoperability in the professional audio market. ‘We are glad to join this alliance with which we were in close communications from the very beginning’, Yamaha senior manager R & D Centre, London, Terry Holton said. The Open Control Architecture is not meant to be a media transport technology or to replace evolving standards such as AVB. Instead, it is intended to complement these by providing a reliable and rich system control environment. It will be a flexible and robust standard covering

The TV Studio showcase at the StageCraft International booth

Philippines: Robert Juliat Aledin LED fixtures proved their value to television studios recently at Systems Integration Philippines 2011 (18 – 20 August). Both the Aledin Profile and the Aledin Wash were used to illuminate the set and presenter of a simulated television studio on the StageCraft International booth. It is the second time Robert Juliat followspots have been showcased on the StageCraft International booth, but the very first time for the new Aledin LED range. “We have received very positive response for the Aledin Profile and Wash, particularly from the various broadcast companies,” said Robert Juliat’s Jamie Boey. “Most were very impressed with the showcase, especially with regard to the quality of light being captured on the JVC HD camcorder from Aledin’s 85W LED source. Aledin’s brightness, beam quality, consistency of colour temperature, together with the flicker free operation are crucial features for TV cameras. We would like to thank StageCraft International, together with Expandore Electronics Pte Ltd and JVC for making this showcase a success.” www.robertjuliat.com

The members of the OCA Alliance are • Bosch Communications Systems • d&b audiotechnik GmbH • Duran Audio • LOUD Technologies Inc • Media Technology Systems • PreSonus • Salzbrenner Stagetec Mediagroup • TC Group • Yamaha Corporation www.oca-alliance.com

Aledin Profile

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NEWS

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RTS and Telex launch new websites International: Bosch Security Systems, Inc., Communications Systems Division brands RTS and Telex announced the launch of their new websites on August 22, 2011. The new www.rtsintercoms.com and www. telex.com websites will serve as interactive online hubs where customers can experience the latest products, news, and information from RTS (intercoms and accessories) and Telex (intercoms and accessories, aviation headsets, radio dispatch equipment).

The RTS/Telex web development team carefully analysed feedback from users worldwide to design the new sites, which feature a clean and intuitive interface, streamlined navigation, product comparison tables, enhanced support resources such as LiveChat (US only), Bosch knowledgebase access and a video gallery. Both sites also oﬀer full social media functionality.

JM Rental initiates ‘green’ HD digital backdrop

www.rtsintercoms.com www.telex.com

Trio A.V. first to purchase Martin Professional MAC Aura in Asia Singapore: Trio A.V. has become the first rental and staging company in Asia to purchase the award-winning Martin Professional MAC Aura, which was only recently launched at PLASA. Trio purchased 48 units of the MAC Aura to complement their existing Martin lighting inventory of MAC 2000 Profile, MAC 2000 Wash, MAC 700 Profile, MAC 700 Wash, MAC 250 Wash and En-tour, MAC TW1 Wash and MAC 301 moving head fixtures as well as Martin lighting console.

range of fully pre-mixed colours from two independent colour systems. Colour shades mix are completely uniform from vibrant saturated colours across beautiful pastels to authentic warm and cool shades of white.

Trio A.V. was happy to support Martin’s move into the world of LED lighting fixtures due to their long and successful relationship with Martin Singapore. Eng Meng, lighting engineer at Trio A.V comments, “We are boosting our already extensive moving light stock with Martin’s latest technology. By adding quantities of LED fixtures to the hire inventory, we can meet the increasing requirements of designs that also include digital light sources as well as lighting.”

Trio A.V. has 20 years of experience in the industry and has one of the most complete warehouse facilities for lighting, sound and video products in Singapore. With the addition of the new Martin kit, Trio A.V. has the ability to supply a complete lighting visual package to any show, tour or event.

The MAC Aura’s were immediately put to use for the ION Shopping Mall 2nd Anniversary event which added more glamour to the celebrations.

www.trioav.com www.martin.com

Eng Meng also highlighted some of the features that convinced Trio A.V. to invest on the MAC Aura. “The MAC Aura oﬀers wide or tight angling options for a high intensity beam look. It also delivers amazing output in an ultra-compact package for a performance to size ratio that you don’t find in other fixture brands and the MAC Aura moves at a speed that was once only associated with moving mirrors. Furthermore, it is extremely quiet which is great for noise sensitive environments like conference events. The MAC Aura has super low power consumption (1 amp) and allows multiple fixtures to be daisy-chained on the same power line for an easier and faster set-up. The MAC Aura is capable of producing new eye-candy eﬀects and it functions as a highly capable single-lens wash with a broad

Hong Kong: JM Rental positioned itself as a ‘green’ technology initiator at a live corporate event called ‘ECO Wonderland’, held by ECOLS (ECO Life Style Shop) Hong Kong from 8-15 August 2011 at The One, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong. JM Rental supported ECOLS during the event as the LED screen partner. Apart from being one of the largest LED Screen rental companies worldwide, JM Rental is also committed to being a key player in the ‘green’ environmental campaign by promoting the use of the LED displays in events. The LED display, as a digital backdrop, consumes less energy compared to traditional non-LED backdrops. ‘ECO Wonderland’ featured music, fashion and lifestyle items to show visitors and ecolovers how ECO concepts can be incorporated into everyday life. For the stage backdrop, JM Rental used a Lighthouse R4 Display at 4mm pitch. The display was 8.32 m wide by 4.8 m high (13 x 10 panels). It provided superb HD visual eﬀects. “We encourage the live-event industry to use LED displays as digital backdrops regardless of whether the installation is temporary or permanent. The digital backdrop can oﬀer infinite options for graphics with HD image quality. This will definitely be of great benefit to the eco-system as well as the industry. By supporting ECOLS and being the LED screen partner of ‘ECO Wonderland’, JM Rental is demonstrating that it is committed to preserving the environment especially in our home town, Hong Kong,” commented Kenneth Yip, Operations Director of JM Rental. www.joinmerit.com www.ecols.com

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NEWS

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Jands’ portfolio grows with the addition of Furman Australia: Jands recently announced their appointment as the exclusive Australian distributer for Furman.

extreme voltage shutdown, true RS voltage regulation and power factor correction products.

Founded in 1974 and based in Petaluma, California, Furman manufacture a wide range of AC power conditioning and distribution products. With a focus on AC power technologies the company oﬀers professional grade multistage protection, line filtering,

Jands CEO, Paul Mulholland, said, “I have long admired the innovative products developed by Furman and Jands is proud to be associated with the company. In recent years I have been made aware of our customers’ growing need and demand for mains protection and

management products. It is well known that Australian power leaves a lot to be desired and professionals whose livelihoods depend on equipment continuing to work will be well served by the products oﬀered by Furman.” www.jands.com.au www.furmansound.com

Belden® announces new appointments Singapore: Belden Singapore Pte Ltd has announced two key appointments to drive growth in the main elements of marketing for the Infrastructure Business Group (IBG) - vertical marketing, product marketing and outbound marketing. Tan Chai-Koon (CK) is the new Vice President of Marketing for Asia Pacific in the IGB reporting to Steve Biegacki, Acting VP Sales & Marketing – IBG, Asia Pacific & Senior Vice President, Global Sales and Marketing. CK’s most notable experience includes Director of Asia Pacific Sales and Marketing with Johnson Controls Power Solutions, and various sales and marketing positions throughout Asia

with Hilti. CK has a Bachelor of Business Administration from the National University of Singapore and a Masters of Business Administration from Thunderbird School of Global Management. Based in India and also reporting to Steve Biegacki is Puneet Mehrotra, VP Sales & Marketing overseeing both the industrial and enterprise businesses in India. With 20 years experience garnered within the industrial automation and energy markets, Puneet hails from a strong background in channel, business development and sales management. He will be leading Belden’s growth in India. Prior to his present appointment with Belden India,

Puneet spent over three years with Areva T & D as the VP/Commercial Director for Substation Automation Sales. Before that, Puneet spent 15 years with Rockwell Automation, growing with them through several positions, the last being Regional Marketing Manager, Sensing, Safety & Connection Business. CK and Puneet are on the leadership team along with Xiangdong Tao, Vice President Sales and Marketing, China and Keith Mauck, Vice President Sales and Marketing, APAC. www.beldenapac.com

AV Staging purchases OHM equipment Malysia: AV Staging Sdn Bhd, a Malaysian company with over a decade of experience in the AV industry, has become the first rental and staging company in Malaysia to purchase a shipment of OHM sound equipment. AV Staging specialises in the rental of audio, video and lighting equipment as well as staging design and production services. They also have extensive experience in providing systems designs, integration, installation and support. They are familiar with all kinds of systems designs, from very basic designs to highly sophisticated AV systems. AV Staging have also received ISO 9001:2008 and OHSAS 18001:2007 certification. AV Staging attributes its success to the quality of the equipment they provide for rental as well as the exceptional level of service that they oﬀer. It is for this reason that they had decided to purchase the sound equipment from OHM which includes 8 units of OHM Ersa Line Array speakers and four units of OHM PUKK 218 subwoofers. In addition, AV staging also purchased one XTA 448 Digital Signal Processor and two Lab.gruppen FP-1000Q amplifiers.

The Amway Konvensyen Keusahawan 2011

The equipment has already been successfully used in two separate events, namely, the Amway Konvensyen Keusahawan 2011 at Sunway Carnival Convention Centre, Penang on 16 July 2011 and the SAP World Tour 2011 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on 3 August 2011. www.avstaging.com.my www.ohm.co.uk

ntertainment technology asia

NEWS

SLV EXPO returns for 2012 Singapore: After a short hiatus from the industry, UnUsUaL Exhibition Services Pte Ltd is back in action. The UnUsUaL team has been working relentlessly in the background to prepare for the 3rd Sound Light Visual (SLV) Expo. The exhibition is scheduled to take place at the Singapore Expo from 20-22 June 2012. The SLV Expo might be new to the industry but is no stranger to the entire market. Feedback gathered from the past two shows were positive and encouraging. “It is evident that the quality (of the expo) is of paramount importance over quantity”, said Johnny Ong, Director of UnUsUaL Group of Companies. For the first time, the SLV Expo will be working with the Guangzhou Entertainment Technology Show (GET Show). GET Show is a comprehensive pro-light and sound exhibition hosted by the Industry Association of South China Entertainment Equipment (SECC) and China International Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT).

Sound Light Visual Expo The objectives of the SLV Expo have remained unchanged over the years. The SLV Expo will host workshops, seminars and conferences. Visitors and exhibitors will also have the opportunity to network while companies can grow their businesses. The SLV Expo will also provide the perfect platform for exhibitors to showcase their latest products, solutions and technologies. Among the highlights of the SLV Expo are the usual Speaker Shootout, featuring live speaker demonstrations and PRO-Shop @

SLV where visitors can find professional equipment at discounted prices. “We are determined to bring something UnUsUaL to you,” said Ong. Visitors can also expect to see a new line-array system and LED video-wall, which will be launched for the first time in South East Asia. Another highlight of the show will be the latest laser technology and scaﬀold structure from Germany. www.slvexpo.com www.unusual.com.sg

The Amway Konvensyen Keusahawan 2011

NEWS

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Martin Audio MLA brings next generation sound to Asia it performing on War Of The Worlds, and MSI now believe they are looking at the next generation sound system for the pro audio industry,” he said. Audio Brains’ Fujii Shuzo agreed. “We chose Rock In Japan for MSI to debut the system as we knew it would be a good opportunity to expose MLA to the The MLA system makes its Japanese debut at Rock In Japan many Japanese sound China and Japan: Martin Audio’s new engineers and rental companies that were Multi-cellular Loudspeaker Array (MLA) has present. With so many potential customers enjoyed instant success in the Far East — for this system it was certainly worth thanks to two large orders placed by newly- making this level of investment for our appointed distributors. Both Beijing Pacific demo stock.” Budee Technology and Audio Brains, part of MSI Japan Holdings, were welcomed MSI fielded the MLA rig on the second into the Martin Audio family at the recent largest stage — the most challenging one, since it is circular in shape. Martin Audio’s Prolight+Sound exhibition in Frankfurt. Martyn ‘Ferrit’ Rowe set-up and tuned Their response has been immediate, with the system using the company’s display Budee ordering a 36-enclosure MLA/MLX software. The rig itself was flown (9 x MLA system to fulfil an order from Hong Kong and 1 x MLD per side) plus 6 x W8LM for rental company, Max Production Ltd. The the front fills, while 10 x MLX subwoofers system was immediately pressed into covered the entire area. Each day saw eight service at Hong Kong’s AsiaWorld-Expo for sessions and diﬀerent groups performing — the Japanese singer-songwriter, YUI, who each with their own sound engineer — and was playing her first overseas live concert all expressed their delight with the MLA in front of 14,000 fans in the AsiaWorld- system. Arena. Fujii Shuzo also took the opportunity to MSI, Martin Audio’s distributor in Japan, introduce the new platform to his own was the contractor for this event, and Max technicians. Meanwhile, Budee have also Production Ltd was the audio equipment been promoting MLA heavily into the supplier for the venue. “This collaboration Chinese market, having staged two wellproved to be a great success, and the attended seminars — one in Beijing and coverage provided by the MLA system was one in Shanghai. excellent,” reports Budee’s deputy general www.audiobrains.com manager, Mingsong Cao. www.martin-audio.com Meanwhile, Audio Brains’ 30-enclosure www.loudtechinc.com rig has enabled sister company MSI Japan — the second largest rental company in the country — to debut it at the major Rock In Japan festival (equivalent in size to Glastonbury) in early August. The Japanese company first became aware of MLA after seeing it promoted and publicised in the territory by Patrick Lau, Martin Audio’s International Sales Manager, Asia. “The company’s president flew to the UK to see Martyn ‘Ferrit’ Rowe, Martin Audio’s technical training manager, with the Audio Brains team.

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ASTRO acquires 32 channels of Sennheiser wireless microphone systems

(L-R) Benji Cheah, Sennheiser Product Specialist at Tegas Broadcast & Multimedia, Faz Salleh, Senior Consultant at Sennheiser Asia, Ramesh Sathasivam Pillay, Operation Head of Sound at ASTRO, and Mansor Lamit, Assistant Sales Manager at Sennheiser Asia

Malaysia: Malaysia’s leading cross-media group, ASTRO, recently acquired 32 channels of Sennheiser 2000 series wireless microphone systems from Sennheiser Electronic Asia Pte Ltd (“Sennheiser Asia”). Astro is Malaysia’s leading integrated cross-media group with operations in 4 key businesses. They include pay TV, radio, content and digital. Launched in 1996, Astro currently has a 50% penetration of TV homes in Malaysia or 3 million customers, making it a key pay TV operator in Southeast Asia broadcasting over 152 channels, of which 15 are in HD. Two racks of 8 units of the EM2050 dual channel receivers, together with 32 beige MKE 1-4-3 clip-on microphones and SK 2000 bodypack transmitters, and 2 AD 3700 directional antennas will be used on the set of the Malaysian edition of the popular cooking reality TV series, MasterChef. Due to its small, hidden quality, the MKE 1-43 clip-on microphone proved to be the perfect application for the recording.

The integrated Wireless System Manager (WSM) software will also be used in the studio set for monitoring and remotely controlling the wireless system. As the change of recording sites is part of the filming process, functions such as the RF spectrum analyser and the RF level recorder in the WSM software will show the size of available slots in the frequency spectrum at each filming location and monitor the field strength of all radio signals present, demonstrating reliable transmission and interference-free sound. Operation Head of Sound for ASTRO’s Technical Operations, Ramesh Sathasivam Pillay, pointed out that Sennheiser equipment was chosen for their reliability and excellent after-sales service. “I am very impressed that we received a proposal with options and technical solutions for this project application three days after our first meeting. Sennheiser Asia, through its local distributor, Tegas Broadcast & Multimedia, has provided us with a fast turnaround on the product delivery and has been supporting us with experienced technical personnel to guide and advise our engineers during the set up. We hope to continue this good working relationship with the Sennheiser team on a long- term basis,” he said. www.sennheiserasia.com

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(L-R) Graham Hendry, Michael Munch and Tim Chapman

TC Group announce structural changes International: Tannoy, Lab.gruppen, Lake and White Acoustics have announced the following important changes to the organisational structure within Marketing and Product Management across the brands, as well as the formation of a new department for application assistance and education for all brands. Michael Munch has been appointed to the role of VP of Product Management across the installation, touring and residential market verticals. Michael joined TC Electronic in 2004, before moving to Lab. gruppen in 2006 where he enjoyed great success as Head of Product Management at Lab.gruppen and Lake. This new role will allow Michael to bring the power of Tannoy, Lab.gruppen and Lake’s resources together to form an even stronger team, with overall product management responsibility of the Tannoy, Lab.gruppen, Lake and White Acoustics brands. Tim Chapman has been appointed VP of Marketing across all the installation and touring brands, covering the management of all marketing functions and personnel based in Coatbridge for the Tannoy, Lab. gruppen, Lake and White Acoustics brands. With a long career in audio including marketing roles at Meyer Sound, Crest Audio, Turbosound and a consultancy for EAW, Tim joined the TC Group five years ago as Head of Marketing for Lab.gruppen and (latterly) Lake. As part of the group’s continuing eﬀorts to increase overall support to customers, a brand new department has been formed to provide customer-facing technical and applications assistance in the installation and touring markets. This new Application, Engineering & Training (AET) group

will cover issues such as design advice, consultant liaison, on-site commissioning, product training, general education programs, customer outreach, trade show presentations, webinars and seminars, to name but a few. Having spent the best part of twenty years with the company, Tannoy’s Graham Hendry will now head up the AET group, working across the Tannoy, Lab. gruppen, Lake and White Acoustics brands. On the Sales side, TC Group has appointed Carsten Ishøy as VP of Sales for Installed Sound. Carsten joined the company as VP of Sales in the HD market in January 2011, but his unprecedented success in that role has meant this new opportunity will allow the Group to optimise sales channels as well as taking important and necessary initiatives towards strengthening and solidifying visibility and position in the install market. “We are delighted to announce these new appointments across the board,” said Andrzej Sosna, Managing Director at Tannoy (and also in overall charge of the new VPs of Marketing, Product Management and the AET group). “The collective experience of the individuals will greatly enhance the capability, both internally and externally, of the Tannoy, Lab.gruppen, Lake and White Acoustic brands. Bringing the brands together like this will also allow us to utilise the expertise we have across the departments, providing us with a wider knowledge base and synchronised approach to both the touring and install markets.” www.tannoy.com www.labgruppen.com www.lakeprocessing.com www.whiteacoustics.com

ntertainment technology asia

NEWS

Robert Juliat for Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay Singapore: Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay, Singapore, has expanded its existing stock of Robert Juliat lighting equipment by taking delivery of a further consignment of Robert Juliat Zoom Profile Lanterns, this time targeted at their 2,000-seat Lyric Theatre. Comprising twenty-six RJ 611SX, sixteen RJ 614SX, eight RJ 711SX2 and eight RJ 714SX2 Profiles, the total of 58 units were supplied to Esplanade by local Robert Juliat distributor, Total Solution Marketing Pte Ltd. Esplanade’s Technical Manager for Lighting, Milton Arnold, said, “Robert Juliat was already in place at the Esplanade when it opened in 2002. We have been happy to explore Robert Juliat solutions when we make changes to our equipment line. Of course, each project involves a testing and comparison procedure. This time our target

was the Theatre’s FOH lighting positions. We did considerable testing to finally arrive at the conclusion that the Robert Juliat profiles worked best for our applications.” Total Solution Managing Director, Glenn Wong, added, “Robert Juliat is renowned for being the pioneer in the theatre lighting industry and I am delighted Esplanade has chosen RJ because of its superior optical system that provides uniform light output and better intensity. They are also extremely userfriendly and easy to maintain.” Esplanade is not the only high profile venue to choose Robert Juliat. Earlier this year, the newly-opened Sands Theatre in Singapore’s spectacular Marina Bay Sands Resort took seven Cyrano followspots into their inventory.

(L-R) George Panait, Assistant Technical Manager for Lighting, and Milton Arnold, Technical Manager for Lighting take delivery of the Robert Juliat Zoom Profile Lanterns

www.robertjuliat.fr

Antwerp, Belgium

Platinum - The power to light your creativity.

If Platinum has the power to light a concert stage for a major artist, could this compact system also turn a street performer into a pop star? www.philips.com/lighting/entertainment

NEWS

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Clay Paky announces winner of Sharpy PLASA competition The vintage machines had been carefully restored by Clay Paky President Pasquale Quadri, a long-time collector and slot machine enthusiast.

Bosch holds ultimate Electro-Voice sound experience

Cohen was at PLASA in his new role as product manager for lighting console maker Compulite Systems. “It was almost not to be,” said Cohen. “I’ve only been with the company a couple of weeks, and only decided to come to PLASA at the last minute.”

Alan Cohen (left) with Pio Nahum

International: A lighting designer and programmer from Tel Aviv, Israel, has been named the winner of Clay Paky’s Win-aSharpy competition at the recent PLASA show in London. Alan Cohen, 41, said it was a ‘huge surprise’ to hear his name called out over the public address system at the Earls Court exhibition. “I was so happy, I couldn’t believe it. I thought someone was having a laugh,” he said. Cohen was one of almost 2000 PLASA attendees to try their luck at winning a Sharpy by playing a pair of specially customised slot machines at the Clay Paky stand.

Cohen was given the choice of taking the Clay Paky spotlight home or swapping it for cash. “I must admit I took the money. I would have loved to have been able to take the Sharpy home with me, but the money will also come in useful.” The competition was in support of Clay Paky’s most popular new product, the Sharpy, which has experienced a phenomenal success, winning favorable reviews as well as a string of awards. Since its launch earlier in the year, the Sharpy has seen action on dozens of TV shows and toured with international artists such as Paul McCartney, Take That, Usher, Bruno Mars, Beyoncé, The Foo Fighters and Ricky Martin. www.claypaky.it

Chauvet adopts new Arkaos Kling-Net protocol

International: ArKaos has announced that the revolutionary ArKaos Kling-Net protocol has been adopted into two new LED lighting fixtures from Chauvet, following its successful launch at PLASA 2011.

with partners who share our vision, which is providing quality products at good value. We believe ArKaos’s Kling-Net will do so across all our markets.”

Released during LDI 2011, the pixel-based fixtures were the first in Chauvet’s burgeoning new Epix range, which are to be operated exclusively by Kling-Net.

The move from Chauvet follows hot on the heels of Highlight International BV of Netherlands which recently incorporated Kling-Net into its new Pixelstrip P25 and Pixelbatten P25 fixtures, both of which were released at PLASA.

“We are very excited by Kling-Net as the protocol is both aﬀordable and easy for the average person to use,” said Chauvet President, Albert Chauvet. “We strive to work

www.kling-net.com www.chauvetlighting.com

Malaysia: Sime Darby Convention Centre came alive with sound on 30 September 2011, as Bosch expanded its Electro-Voice (EV) series of premium level products with the introduction of the RE320 and R300 microphones and Live X Speakers. A stellar line-up of performers consisting of Chelsia Ng, Katoon Network, Martin Ngim and his band - The Red Quartet, DJ Irwan and Mr. C spiced up the stage as their rhythm and beats pulsated through the EV sound system. High quality microphones and loud speakers are essential to any artist’s stage set-up and the latest additions to EV’s portfolio were just what was needed! The RE320 microphone’s Dual Personality and greater high frequency detail make it versatile for use both in the studio and on stage. The R300 is a stateof-the-art wireless microphone worthy of a world tour performance, oﬀered at an unprecedented price. The stunning Live X speakers are lightweight and durable, setting new standards for portable sound. Like their predecessors from the EV series, they provide entertainers with exceptional audio quality and professional grade performance. “We wanted to showcase these top-of-therange sound systems in a practical manner. There’s no better way to exemplify these products than through some of the very people who regularly use them. The ElectroVoice range is exactly what artists should be utilising to maximise every performance, with sonic detail that will leave a glowing lasting impression,” stated Mr Randy Tee, General Manager, Security Systems of Robert Bosch Sdn Bhd. www.bosch.com

NEWS

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W-DMX™ installed in new i-Pix Satellite II Sweden: Wireless Solution Sweden AB has added yet another exceptional company to its growing list of OEM partners. W-DMX™ technology is now available in the new i-Pix Satellite II, an LED brick light based on the original bestselling Satellite fixture, now with three times the output. Ideal for stage and theatrical applications where space is a premium, the handy-sized Satellite can be easily concealed in a wide variety of small spaces in stage sets, under risers, in trussing, etc. With the addition of W-DMX, this unit solves a myriad of challenges involving complex cabling and diﬃcult locations. i-Pix also oﬀers a satellite battery pack which transforms the new unit into a freestanding, focusable RGBW device with stand alone or wireless DMX playback. It is designed to run for a minimum of 9 hours with three of the four Satellite Mark II

channels on full intensity. Chris Ewington, MD of i-PIX said, “With busy hire shops setting up numerous lights in and around venues, it can be quite a task with hardwired DMX. Introducing wireless DMX built into the new improved Satellite Mk II marks a sea change in ease-of-use. Not only is data flow maintained, the fixture is further enhanced by being the first in its class to offer both on-grid and off-grid battery power. Whatever the power source, DMX data flows are easily dealt with thanks to Wireless Solution. Stable, dependable and affordable, so much so that it’s part of our standard product offering. We look forward to pushing this idea forward into other fixtures within our range.” Niclas Arvidsson, CEO of Wireless Solution said, “i-Pix is an incredibly innovative company and the Satellite II is a perfect example of how well they know their market and design products that fill a niche. We’re very happy to have them as an OEM partner.” www.wirelessdmx.com www.i-pix.uk.com

DIS Interpretation systems make headway at events

Philippines: On 21 May 2011 at Ynares Center in Antipolo City, Philippines, Master Ryuho Okawa gave a lecture titled, “Love and Spiritual Power.“ This is the first time Master Ryuho Okawa, the Japanese world teacher of Spiritual Truth and the founder of Happy Science, a global movement made to bring happiness to people all over the world, had gone to the Philippines to share his teachings on love and happiness. The event was in the English language with Tagalog live translation. One thousand sets of DIS CIE 9000 Interpretation Systems (delegate headphones and wireless infrared receivers) were used by the attendees. On 6 June 2011, the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT-Guangzhou) and Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) held the “Manila-Guangzhou Trade & Investment Conference & Cantonese Product Promotion In Asean” event at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila. The event aimed to further boost the Philippine-China trade and investment relations and was attended by about 500 business leaders, industry captains and government oﬃcials from both countries. Part of the activities of the conference was a product promotion through a virtual trade fair featuring the top products of China for export, business matching activities and oﬃce and factory visits. Two hundred and twenty sets of DIS CIE 9000 Interpretation Systems (delegate headphones and wireless infrared receivers) were used by participants in this conference. www.dis.cc

ntertainment technology asia

NEWS

Grand Hyatt Hong Kong introduces first HD digital backdrop Hong Kong: The world renowned Grand Hyatt Hong Kong hotel recently introduced the first high definition digital backdrop. The backdrop, also known as “Multi-Purpose Full HD LED Electronics Display” has been permanently installed in the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong’s Grand Ballroom. Grand Hyatt Hong Kong is a reputable international hotel. Also known as the “Event Hotel of Hong Kong”, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong is popular among international business and leisure travelers. The hotel features 25 highly flexible event venues. TG Events has been chosen by Grand Hyatt Hong Kong as its oﬃcial contractor to sell and manage the Ballroom Digital backdrop.

achievement in the venue management industry and creates a brand new green direction in the set-working design industry. At the moment we are also expanding our services to the venue management industry as well.” www.tg-events.com www.hongkong.grand.hyatt.com

TG Events is a very experienced company in the Hong Kong event management industry. It has been involved in projects such as the Tiﬀany Beijing Shop Opening, Tag Heuer 150th Anniversary Exhibition (Hong Kong), Cartier Hong Kong Shop Grand Opening, CSL one2free Online Shop Launch Ceremony, Hong Kong Fashion Week 2011 and much more. TG Events specialises in creating new audio-visual experiences tailored for each event. Earlier this year, TG Events proposed to Grand Hyatt Hong Kong the concept of the first 5-star venue with a ‘Multi-Purpose Full HD Digital Backdrop Solution’. The proposal explained how digital backdrops provide smart solutions for everyone. The digital backdrop’s capability of performing infinite media inputs help to provide more options and time for the clients. Lastly, it reduces the use of natural resources which supports the environment. The proposed plan has led to the set-up of the world’s very first HD digital backdrop installed in a 5-star hotel. The backdrop has been permanently located in the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong’s Ballroom main stage. The High-Definition Digital Backdrop is made up of Lighthouse Technology R4 LED Display panels in the size of 8.32 m x 3.84 m with the pixel resolution of 1872 x 864. Lighthouse R4 panels were selected because of their fine characteristics and superb design. They are excellent for indoor display applications that require close viewing and noise control. “We are delighted to be Grand Hyatt Hong Kong’s Oﬃcial Contractor for the grand ballroom’s Digital Backdrop” said Fion Fan of TG Events. “Setting up the backdrop has been a magnificent

SCT

TECHNOLOGY

NEWS

ntertainment technology asia

High End Systems announces trade-in program for Trackspot Bolt

Lab.gruppen announce awardwinning distributors International: Swedish pro-audio pioneers Lab.gruppen have announced the recipients of their Distributor of the Year Awards 2011. These awards recognise the outstanding eﬀorts and successes of distribution companies in their respective regional markets, many of whom have helped build the Lab.gruppen brand and drive business to unprecedented levels over the past 12 months.

International: High End Systems has announced an exciting new trade-in program. Eﬀective immediately and running through the end of the year, customers can trade-in functioning original Trackspot fixtures for a credit towards the purchase of new Trackspot Bolt fixtures. The Trackspot Bolt is an updated version of the classic Trackspot from High End Systems. Improving on the success of the original which sold over 46,000 units, the Trackspot Bolt is based on an LED engine producing over 3000 lumens of output. With modern features such as rotating gobos, remote focus, anamorphic gobos and a wedged colour wheel, Trackspot Bolt sets a new industry standard for functionality in a moving mirror fixture.

above non-LED fixtures. With no loss of output over years of use, reduced power consumption and less heat dissipation, Trackspot Bolt is the perfect choice for long lasting eﬃciency. “The LED engine and feature set in Trackspot Bolt allows clubs and small stages access to state-of-the-art lighting,” said Brad Schiller, High End Systems Product Manager. “The original Trackspot was extremely popular and most are still in operation today. This trade-in program allows customers to update their inventory with modern LED technology and stunning new eﬀects.”

Distributor of the Year 2011 – Far East Rivera International, India

Distributor of the Year 2011 – Pacific Rim Hills SVL, Australia

www.highend.com/TrackspotBolt/

The very nature of the powerful LED source provides many important enhancements

Martin Professional holds product training session along with hands-on training in the Martin demo room. Discussions covered general lighting topics such as the appropriate use of LED, fluorescent and discharge light sources in diﬀerent applications, and indepth case stories like the award-winning Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.

International: Martin Professional recently held an installation products training seminar for lighting designers at its headquarters in Aarhus, Denmark - the first of several planned over the coming year. Martin Product Manager for Fixed Installations, Jonathan Meineke, headed the training with participation from members of Martin’s R&D and Design & Application Departments. The training included an upclose look at a live lighting installation on the exterior of Martin’s headquarters building,

The training gave lighting designers the opportunity to get hands-on with several Martin installation products, including the award-winning Exterior 400 Range™, the newly launched Exterior 100 IP68™ and Exterior 50 IP68™ luminaires, and the upcoming Exterior 400 Image Projector™. For more information, please contact Martin Product Manager Jonathan Meineke at Jonathan.Meineke@martin.dk, +45 4080 5741. www.martin.com

Miguel Hadelich, Lab.gruppen’s VP of International Sales for Touring Products, said, “As Lab.gruppen is a world-renowned and very successful brand with marketleading product lines being used across the globe, it is our pleasure to reward those outstanding individuals and companies that have helped get us to that position in their respective regions. We are delighted to be represented by Hills SVL in Australia and Rivera International in India and would like to take this opportunity to thank all of their staﬀ who have worked tirelessly to provide the very best service to their customer base, and also help educate them about the many benefits that Lab.gruppen products can bring to their inventory.” www.tannoy.com www.labgruppen.com www.lakeprocessing.com www.whiteacoustics.com

NEWS

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Glorious Singapore invests in Clair Brothers equipment to Glorious Singapore, it has been used in three separate events. The first event, a show for the National University of Singapore (NUS), took place only two days after the system was delivered. Although Adam’s team had no time to test the system, it worked perfectly straight away and the client was so impressed that they are talking to Glorious Singapore about doing another event.

Adam Tan (fifth from left) and his team with their Clair Brothers system

Singapore: Glorious (S) Pte Ltd, part of the Glorious Group of Companies headquartered in Hong Kong, have become the latest member of the Clair Brothers family with their recent purchase of a 40 foot container of Clair Brothers Audio System (CBAS) speakers and amplifiers reportedly worth close to S$1 million. Established in 1992, Glorious Singapore started as a pure pyrotechnics company. Over the next 19 years, they have expanded their services to become one of the largest special effects companies in Singapore with an inventory of products ranging from fireworks and laser to water screens and other high tech equipment. They have been involved in projects like the Singapore National Day Parade 2007, the Singapore Flyer Official Opening in 2008 and the Announcement of the Youth Olympic Games in 2010. They also cover other activities such as corporate events, social functions and product launches. Two years ago, Glorious Singapore decided to add light, sound and and video services to their repertoire. They intended to become the first company in Singapore to offer a full range of services and a one-stop solution for companies or corporations looking to hold events of any scale. “Our goal was to be the first company in Singapore to turn-key any kind of project,” said Adam Tan, Managing Director of Glorious Singapore. “There are a lot of sound and lighting companies in Singapore but they do not have pyrotechnics licenses. Conversely, there are pyrotechnics companies in Singapore but they don’t own sound, light and video equipment. I think going in this direction will help us to create a niche and provide our clients with cost savings as well.” Adam thinks that this strategy has been working well for Glorious Singapore for the last two years and they have clients who have benefited from it. This was the reason why Glorious Singapore wanted to invest in top quality sound equipment. “If you look at our

strategy, we want to provide the best sound services in the market,” he said. “This was the reason why we decided to invest in Clair Brothers equipment. We want to capitalise on their technical expertise, excellent sound quality and solid reputation.” Glorious Singapore’s decision to invest in Clair Brothers equipment was done in a careful and systematic manner. “From the beginning we wanted to invest in a system that was established, reliable, awardwinning and recognised by industry experts for its exceptional sound. One of my clients mentioned that Clair Brothers was the ‘Rolls Royce’ of sound and that gave me the urge to want to own the brand,” said Adam. However, Adam is also a practical person and he knew he needed to test the system before he made his decision as a lot of money was involved. Fortunately, Resorts World Sentosa was conducting a comparison test with the system and Clair Brothers’ Singapore distributor, Quad Professional, invited Adam to the test. When Adam heard the system for the first time, he was very impressed. “The Clair Brothers system clearly had the best sound,” he said. Adam also did some research on the Clair Brothers system and found that it had won numerous awards. There were other factors that Adam had to consider before making his decision. The system had to be mobile, easy to set-up and easy to maintain. Only the Clair Brothers system could fulfill all these requirements.

The second event where the system was used was the high profile Avalon At Large Mega Music Event at Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre on 23-24 September. The technical director for the event, Billy Magendran of Snipe Media, was very impressed with the sound quality from the system and so were the international Djs present for the event. The third event where the system was used was a corporate event for Prudential at the Singapore Expo. “The event management company and the client were so pleased with the Clair Brothers system that they commented that it was the best sound they had ever heard in all the years that they had been running this event,” said Adam. Needless to say, Adam has been very happy with the feedback from his clients so far. Another bright spot for Glorious Singapore since they purchased the Clair Brothers system has been the support they have received from the distributor. “The service we have received from Quad Professional has been very good and that is one of the reasons why we invested in Clair Brothers equipment,” Adam confided. Although Glorious is very satisfied with their investment, they hope to add more Clair Brothers equipment to their inventory in the future. “At the moment, we are doing events mostly in expos, convention halls and ballrooms,” said Adam. “In a couple of years, we may decide to do outdoor events and concerts where we will need to increase the number of cabinets in our inventory.” www.glorious.com.sg www.clairsystems.com www.quadpro.com.sg

Since the Clair Brothers system was delivered

The Clair Brothers system was used at the Avalon At Large Mega Music Event at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre

ntertainment technology asia

Prolyte Group introduces i-line in Asia and Australasia

International: Prolyte Group has announced that no less than 4 partners have added the range of i-line products to their existing portfolio of Prolyte products.

i-line Partners for Asia & Australasia are:

The introduction of the i-line and policy at the PALM show in Beijing was well received by existing partners, underlining the importance of not only supplying quality products at the best prices, but backing this up with excellent availability and the best service and support available.

Tongsuh Technology Co. Ltd, Korea. Website: www.tongsuhtec.com

The first containers of i-line products have arrived with Prolyteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s partners, which means the Prolyte X and H trusses, MPT towers and standard StageDex are now in stock for immediate delivery in Asia and Australasia.

Modern Stage Services India. Website: www.modernstageservice.in

Specialised Stage Engineering Pty Ltd., Australia Website: www.stageengineering.com Metro Productions Ltd, New Zealand Website: www.metro.net.nz Prolyte Products Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd., Malaysia Website: www.prolyte-asia.com Prolyte Doughty Japan Inc., Japan Website: www.prolyte-doughty.jp

NEWS

Basic Rigging Training & Workshop Schedule for 2012 Prolyte Group have announced the 2012 schedule for their Basic Rigging Training & Workshop. 13 - 17 February, 2012 (14th Session) 14 - 18 May, 2012 (15th Session) 10 - 14 September, 2012 (16th Session) 26 - 30 November, 2012 (17th Session) www.prolyte-asia.com

NEWS

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Sennheiser appoints Eric Denise Vice President Sales, APAC engaged in a major restructuring program to improve customer focus and market knowledge. In the course of this restructuring program, Sennheiser also reorganised sales operations into three major regions: The Americas, EMEA and APAC. Under Denise’s management, the French subsidiary, representing a significant portion of Sennheiser’s global business, had achieved record sales numbers which contributed to the global business success of the Sennheiser group.

International: Eﬀective 1 January, 2012, Eric Denise, President Sennheiser France will be promoted to the position of Vice President Sales, APAC. In his new position, Denise will head business in the entire APAC region, encompassing Asia, Australia, Greater China, Japan and India. Having run Sennheiser France very successfully for 8 years, he now moves on to a larger responsibility, thus taking on a more corporate role. Recently, Sennheiser

“Eric comes with an excellent track record and is well-equipped for his new assignment. I’d like to congratulate him on his well-deserved appointment, which again supports our strategy for the upcoming years,” commented Volker Bartels, Speaker of Sennheiser’s Executive Management Board and President Corporate Services. ”Eric will help us implement our premium strategy, with a particular focus on each of our three Business Divisions and give a significant positive impulse for business in the Asia Pacific markets.” www.sennheiser.com

ITE College East educates the future with Avolites Singapore: The Institute of Technical Education (ITE) College East has taken delivery of Avolites Tiger Touch and Avolites Diamond 4 lighting consoles. The Avolites consoles will be used extensively as training equipment in the two-year Nitec in Electrical Technology – Lighting and Sound Course. The course aims to equip its students with relevant hands-on training and technical knowledge to prepare them for a career in the lighting and sound industry. “Here in ITE College East, we started our lighting console training with the Avolites Pearl Tiger,” said Daniel Li, course lecturer at ITE East. “The boards were intuitive to use and students learnt to use it quickly. When time came for us to upgrade, we naturally chose the Tiger Touch and Diamond 4 lighting consoles. The Diamond 4 will be integrated into our auditorium replacing an aging Strand lighting board. The Tiger Touch is a high quality lighting console that is suitable for the students. It is easy to use and has new software that is stable. The design of

The ITE students with their Avolites lighting consoles

the product is also modern. It has been a pleasure working with the Avolites consoles. We look forward to seeing more great products in the near future!” The Avolites were supplied by Total Solution Marketing Pte Ltd. ”We are thankful to Total Solution for their ongoing support and commitment to our students’ education. The assistance rendered by Total Solution has been flawless,” added Daniel. www.tsm-int.com

JM Rental boosts its inventory Hong Kong: JM Rental Limited has advanced to another rental level beyond LED displays by exposing their rental inventory to cover a wide range of video system equipment. Known as one of the world’s largest LED display rental companies, JM Rental hasn’t stopped at just being an LED panel provider. It has stepped up to another important stage as a total LED rental supplier by expanding its inventory to cover various types of video system equipment like media servers, digital AV mixers, intelligent digital disk recorders and video control desks. JM Rental has also extended its inventory to cover various models of LED displays for both indoor and outdoor use. Furthermore, the company has become the only high-definition 3D LED display distributor and continuously introduces 3D LED display panels to the worldwide market. Besides providing turn-key solutions to worldwide partners and expanding the inventory to cover Video Control Systems, JM Rental has further expanded their inventory to cover all visual systems by investing in specific numbers of world renowned video control equipment such as the coolux Media Server, Panasonic 2D/3D Digital AV Mixer, Grass Valley T2 Intelligent Digital Disk 2D/3D Recorder and Player and the Barco Encore Presentation system. “We decided to go in for more AV control gear which covers both 2D and 3D video technology,” disclosed Kenneth Yip, Operations Director of JM Rental. “We believe that to be a good total solutions provider for LED displays, we have to cover all of the necessary control gear needed to manage and control shows of any scale. However, this is just another step further for us. We will definitely keep filling our inventory to meet up with the demand from our partners around the world as well as catch-up with worldwide industry trends.” www.joinmerit.com

EvoLVING

generation

More powerful Class D ampliďŹ ers Extra lightweight polypropylene cabinets Higher SPL for optimal audio reproduction New DSP with four EQ presets More value for money

EvoMaxX 6a 400+100W EvoMaxX 6 400W SUBline 18Sa 1200W

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EvoMaxX 9Sa 600W

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EvoMaxX X2 2a a W 400+100W EvoMaxX X2 250W

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ITALY

ENNOVATIONS

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Belden adds new 7.0 software platform Belden Singapore Pte Ltd recently announced the release of the 7.0 version of its software platform from the Hirschmann™ product series used in the MACH 100, MACH 1000, MACH 4000, MICE, PowerMICE, Rail and OCTOPUS families of managed switches from Hirschmann™.

bandwidth. The configuration, security and service functions have also been further enhanced.

Like previous versions, the latest release of this software platform oﬀers a range of functions normally only found in backbone systems for the oﬃce area. These include comprehensive management, diagnosis and filter functions plus various redundancy methods, security mechanisms and realtime applications.

Thanks to this latest software update, it is now possible to create configurations oﬄine, without any active connection to the switches. These can be stored locally and copied to the devices later on. What’s more, the ARC protocol makes it possible to configure an MRP ring automatically, enhancing the speed and reliability of this process. Only one switch must be modified in order to completely configure all others in the ring. All settings are then automatically stored on every switch.

In addition to DVMRP and PIM-DM, the new PIM-SM multicast protocol is provided for Layer 3, enabling optimum utilisation of

The new software platform also provides additional service functions for IP telephony. LLDP for media endpoint devices (LLDP-MED)

permits automatic assignment of network rules. The incorporation of IP phones into a Voice VLAN is also automatic, ensuring uniform voice quality. “Not only does it oﬀer by far the largest range of standard features for the automation area, this release also provides a whole series of special functions,” said Product Manager Jürgen Schmid. “The ARC-protocol, for example, enables automatic configuration of a complete MRP ring. And this means that installation is simpler, faster and even more reliable,” he added. www.beldenapac.com

Martin P3 System Controller available in PC version Martin Professional’s award-winning P3 System Controller for LED video screen processing is now available in a PC-based version. The P3-PC is an inexpensive yet full-featured software-only version that can control up to 20,000 pixels using the Ethernet port of the PC it is running on. The P3-PC packs three functions into a single software package. It can be used for smaller Martin LED video set-ups containing up to 20000 pixels (P3-PC license on Martin OneKey™ required). It is also an oﬄine editor for

the P3-100 and P3-200 System Controllers to pre-program set-ups anywhere on a PC or laptop. Users can save and copy shows to the P3-100/200 using a USB stick (no license required; free-of-charge). Furthermore, it can be used to address/test/upload firmware LED video set-ups on-site before the P3-100/200 arrives on location (no license required; freeof-charge). The P3-PC software can be downloaded for free from the Martin Professional website. Media playback is performed by the PC itself

using any media player application including Quicktime, Windows Media Player or VLC (Media playback requires an inexpensive Martin One-Key license). www.martin.com

ENNOVATIONS

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Symetrix Zone Mix 761 adds ARC-WEB compatability Symetrix announced the release of the Zone Mix 761, which adds ARC-WEB compatibility to the powerful feature set formerly found in the predecessor Zone Mix 760, one of the company’s most popular products. ARCWEB allows integrators to build customised interfaces that operate on users’ smartphones or internet-connected computers. In addition to ARC-WEB compatibility, the Zone Mix 761 shines with a modernised aesthetic similar to that of the Symetrix Jupiter series and includes a new collection of logic outputs on the rear panel. “The Zone Mix 761 steps into the shoes of the 760, which has been among our most popular products,” said Trent Wagner, senior product manager at Symetrix. “With twelve inputs and six outputs, it excels at three of the most commonly-required functions in small- to mid-sized installations: paging with automatic ducking, flexible routing and mixing, and comprehensive processing at the input and the output. The Zone Mix 761 carries on the tradition of ease-of-use, full feature set, and very competitive price point that have earned

the Zone Mix 760 a place in restaurants, bars, and hotels the world over. The Zone Mix 761 does everything the 760 did so well – and more.” “Our ARC-WEB technology is a cost-eﬀective way to provide users with customised control of their sound systems from their smartphones or computers,” said Paul Roberts, VP of Sales & Marketing at Symetrix. “It’s exciting to take one of our most popular products and make it even better with the inclusion of this ARC-WEB technology. We think the form, function, features and quality of the Zone Mix 761 make it a uniquely powerful choice for integrators and consultants with zone mix applications. Its low price-point amplifies that statement.” www.symetrix.co

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ENNOVATIONS

Studiomaster Professional releases DMX5 mixer The new Studiomaster Professional DMX5 is a 5-channel DJ mixer with 8 truly world class digital eﬀects, allowing a new dimension of creative mixing. The DMX5 has two microphone inputs along with 3-Band EQ’s. The input section has multi-routable and selectable lines as well as phono inputs, bright dual-coloured level LED meters and ultra smooth faders. The crossfader is smooth and durable with two curve selection options. The master output has balanced XLR as well as RCA output. The mixer also has a separate booth out for monitor and other sound reinforcement applications as well as record output to record mixes and sets on recording devices. Cueing is intuitive with Split/Blend option and Cue/Main mix as well as powerful headphone output on both 6.3mm and 3.5mm stereo jacks. An essential tool housed in this mixer is the dual BPM display counter with manual tap function, separate for cue and master section. The heart of the DMX5 consists of the eight preset eﬀects that are warm,

unique and totally customisable. The eﬀects arsenal consists of the regulars like reverb, delay, flanger as well as the jaw dropping phatter, sub-bass extender and ping-pong delay. With the DMX5, users can change eﬀects parameters on-the-fly. The Studiomaster DMX5 mixer is ideal for both professional or novice DJs looking to rule the dance floor. www.studiomasterprofessional.com www.audioplus-india.com

New version of Xone Mixed in Key launched

Experience the Future!

Xone Mixed In Key 5 oﬀers multiprocessor support for both Mac and Windows, allowing the software to take full advantage of the blazing speeds possible on multicore CPUs. Another highlight is the new Audio Player which lets users audition the key-detected songs and samples from within the software. In addition to existing support for MP3 and WAV file formats, Xone Mixed In Key 5 adds M4A and MP4 (video file) support. Mixed In Key has released Xone Mixed In Key 5, the latest version of its harmonicmixing software which oﬀers new features and functions including multi-core support, on-screen audio player, multiple-key recognition and a powerful new keydetection algorithm. Used by world-class DJs like David Guetta, Pete Tong and Kaskade, Mixed In Key software quickly and accurately identifies the keys and tempos of digital music files, making it easy for DJs to create mash-ups and play perfect DJ sets.

”Mixed In Key 5 is the professional DJ’s choice for harmonic mixing. It’s a powerful DJ tool that connects with your favorite DJ software and DJ hardware, and makes it possible to mix harmonically regardless of your medium,” said Yakov Vorobyev, president of Mixed In Key. “We love it when people use Mixed In Key with Traktor, CD-Js, Serato Scratch Live and all other DJ and sequencer apps. It works perfectly with them and takes your DJ sets to the next level.” xone.mixedinkey.com www.allen-heath.com

MA Lighting Asia Pacific Pte Ltd. 195 Pearl’s Hill Terrace #01-18 · 168976 Singapore Phone: +65 6513 1897 · Fax: +65 6516 0877 infoASIA@malighting.com www.malighting.com

ENNOVATIONS

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The NEW BROADCAST Server oﬀers broadcast professionals a dual 3G/HD-SDI output solution. The BROADCAST Server features two low latency HD-SDI inputs. Along with its ability to oﬀer sub-scanline level synchronisation to external sync sources, the BROADCAST Server can be used for multi-system and multi-display applications. All the servers are available in three editions: LT, STD and PRO. Following the huge success of the coolux Pandoras Box Player software, the new QUAD and DUAL Player hardware systems combine the versatility of the Player software only solution with multiple outputs and industry leading graphics power. Both the QUAD and the DUAL Player are perfectly suited for permanent installations and high definition multimedia displays.

Pandoras Box Editor

coolux unveils Pandoras Box Version 5 coolux Pandoras Box Version 5 is the new and highly anticipated next step in the development of the award-winning Pandoras Box product family. For the first time ever, it is now possible to use Pandoras Box all the way from the inception of a project idea, right up until the actual production. The new Pandoras Box Version 5 has five new distinct features. The first is a video export and recording feature that greatly improves workflow and enables users to export entire scenes as HD video while having the flexibility of a real-time editing system. For live video ingest, users can now record and capture from any live input source up to 2K/HD. The second feature, an Aeon FX Engine, enables users to create and combine an almost unlimited number of effects. All effects and animations are automatically synchronised across the system network. Thirdly, a FireFly™ 3D Particle System allows for the creation of elaborate realtime particle effects in a true interactive 3D compositing space. Various emitters can be set-up and applied with forces such as wind and gravity.

Another new feature is the new QUAD Server and QUAD Player workstations which oﬀer users up to four independent HD DVI outputs with built-in EDID Management. Lastly, the Pandoras Box Manager Software now supports ASIO audio interfaces and oﬀers synchronised multi-channel audio playback. On the hardware side, the new members of coolux product family include a number of new server types streamlined for dedicated applications, in addition to hardware-based Pandoras Box player turnkey solutions. The Pandoras Box DUAL Server is a powerful multi-purpose system that can be used for projects in a large variety of markets including (but not limited to) the event, theater, broadcast, touring and/or installation sector. The new QUAD Server systems are perfect for projects that require multiple outputs. Great versatility in combination with a great variety of available inputs make the QUAD Server a great choice for large scale panoramic projections, interactive digital signage projects and fixed installations.

In addition to these very powerful hardware systems, it is worth mentioning that the new Pandoras Box Player LT offers a very cost effective solution for basic video and projection displays. This synchronised digital signage player completes the software-only Player family, which is now available as either LT, STD or PRO. The Pandoras Box EDITOR is an advanced real-time rendering system, that combines non-linear editing and 3D compositing tools. It enables designers and content creators alike to harness the creative powers of the award-winning Pandoras Box product family without the need to buy any additional hardware processors. Users with prior knowledge of the Pandoras Box system will feel right at home, but even those new to the Pandoras Box product family will be impressed with the great feature-set that comes with the Pandoras Box EDITOR. coolux’s new video export technology, the dynamic AEON™ effects engine and the versatile FireFly™ particle system are all included in this powerful editing and compositing software. The Pandoras Box Version 5’s combination of new features, products and overall capabilities make it a milestone in the development of creative media control technology. www.coolux.de

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ENNOVATIONS

Xone:K2 controller unleashed Allen & Heath has introduced the Xone:K2, a MIDI controller and audio interface with a 4-channel internal soundcard, configurable MIDI surface with tri-colour LED illumination, USB bus power and incorporating A&H’s proprietary X:LINK to connect with other Xone equipment. The K2 is designed to work with all MIDIenabled DAW applications and interface with popular DJ software packages, such as Ableton, Traktor Pro and Serato Scratch Live. It has 52 physical controls – including 12 analogue and 6 endless rotary encoders with push switch, 4 linear faders and 30 back lit performances switches - providing up to 171 MIDI control commands across 3 layers. The K2’s MIDI interface can be configured by the user, so the unit can be left in ‘Open Architecture (Latching Layers oﬀ) Mode’ or set to ‘Latching Layers Mode’. K2 has an internal 4-channel high quality soundcard, that can operate at 44.1 and 48kHz, and all channels run from the PC to the unit, configured to provide 2 stereo channels, one for headphones one for

master out L and R, allowing headphone cueing without interrupting the master out. There is also a dedicated 3.5mm headphone jack, and a master out on RCA phono connectors. It is possible to link two K2 units together to double the control area using Allen & Heath’s proprietary X:LINK protocol. X:LINK uses a standard RJ45 connector and distributes power and data, which means two units can be connected to your DAW using only one USB port. Xone:K2 is constructed with a strong plastic base and steel front panel employing A&H’s nutted pot construction to be both lightweight and hard-wearing.

Finally, the K2 comes with a stylish carry case that doubles as a stand for ease of use for travelling DJs. www.allen-heath.com

ENNOVATIONS

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Allen & Heath introduce Xone:DB2 The Xone:DB2 is the latest model in its Xone:DB digital mixer range. The DB2 is a fully digital, state-of-the-art DJ mixer, incorporating two powerful multi-FX engines and retaining all the essential elements of the flagship Xone:DB4 but at a more affordable price. The DB2 has four input channels, each of which has a full input matrix that can select from four analogue, four USB, or two digital sources. The DB4 style ‘Trimodal EQ’ has been included which can be configured as a standard asymmetric EQ (+6/-25dB), total Kill (+6dB/OFF with a 24dB/octave slope), or a High-Pass/Low-Pass filter system with adjustable resonance. Each channel has a single routing switch that sends to the main mix, or to either of the two FX sections, and this control also assigns the crossfader. There is a single microphone channel, which can also be switched to stereo line, providing 2-band EQ, gain, cue, and mix level. Similar to the main input channels, this can also be routed to either of the FX units or direct to the main mix. Beneath the Mic channel is the headphone monitor system, and to the right of the main mixer is the master section, with main mix level, booth level, and the two FX sections. Each FX engine has 5 basic studio quality FX types - based on the iLive pro-touring FX system and optimised for DJ use comprising delays, reverbs, modulators, resonators and damage, plus each FX type has a patch library of different effect variations that can be assigned to the relevant control. There is also a filter on the output of each FX bank, and each has a dedicated expression control and a rotary pot to set the wet/dry level, whilst further effect tweaking can be performed using the encoders beneath the OLED screen.

The OLED display is clearly visible even in bright sunlight, and displays the FX selection and current BPM, as well as being an easy and intuitive interface for the Menu set up functions. The mixer oﬀers many user defined settings, such as meter mode, BPM range, USB audio routing scheme, display brightness, in addition to the extensive built-in FX library. The built-in, multi-channel USB2 soundcard allows replay and recording from computerbased audio software for 4 stereo sends and 4 stereo returns. All controls (except Mic and Phones level) send MIDI data and the mixer can double up as a MIDI controller via the MIDI shift button, which allows the

FX selection controls to send MIDI data without changing the mixer settings. Like the DB4, the DB2 also has an X:LINK socket to allow easy integration of the new Xone:K2 software controller. The Xone:DB2 also sports a stylish, lightweight aluminium chassis designed to make touring easy. Other features include crossfader and upfader curve controls, multi-point level metering, digital output, analogue balanced outputs for main mix and booth, and a record output with adjustable level. www.allen-heath.com

Photo courtesy of City Harvest Church

Clair Brothers speakers at the City Harvest Church, Suntec Singapore

uncompromising sound solutions

QUAD PROFESSIONAL PTE LTD 45 Ubi Road 1, #05-04, Summit Building, Singapore 408696 Te l : + 6 5 6 8 4 8 9 5 9 5 , F a x : + 6 5 6 7 4 5 5 9 1 8 Email: sales@quadpro.com.sg w w w. q u a d p r o . c o m . s g

Management Perspectives

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Petrek in 1992 when he was working as a DJ. We decided to start our own company in 1994 as an OEM manufacturer with a focus on building intelligent lighting eﬀects and scanners. We also wanted to export our products to the international market, not just to the Czech or Slovak markets. I owned 50 percent of the business and Ladislav owned the other 50 percent of the business. Initially, we did not promote the Robe name because we were OEM manufacturers. In 2002, after we had built up our portfolio of OEM customers, we launched the Robe brand. It has now been 9 years since we have been selling our products directly to the market. We have established a very strong distribution network with technical and service support. Next year (2012) will be my 20th year in this business. ETA: What are Robe’s goals for the Asian market? JV: We are a well-established company in the Asian market with a wide distribution network. We are very strong in China, Japan and Korea. We are doing very well in Singapore and we are represented in every market in Asia but we are trying to improve everywhere. As a manufacturing company, you are never happy. You are always trying to improve. What we can oﬀer to our customers are the high quality products which Robe is well-known for and our product range is very extensive. We have the 18 Series which is proven and has been in the market for a long time. Basically, these are the most reliable products in the market today.

Josef Valchar General Manager, CEO ROBE lighting s.r.o

Charming and charismatic, Josef Valchar is the public face of Robe lighting. He is often seen at lighting exhibitions and events where he listens to feedback and opinions from customers about his company’s products and shares this information with the various departments within Robe. This ensures that Robe’s products and services are kept constantly on the cutting edge.

greatly contributed to Robe’s success as the fastest growing moving light manufacturer in the world.

Valchar takes an active role in the day-to-day running of Robe lighting of which he is also the co-founder and co-owner. He realises the importance of networking with customers and end-users at events, exhibitions and installation projects. His desire to know how Robe’s products are being utilised and what his customers are saying about them has

ETA: How did you get into the lighting business?

Entertainment Technology Asia Magazine conducted an exclusive interview with Valchar recently where he talked about Robe’s history, the philosophy behind Robe’s products and his goals for Robe in the Asian market.

JV: I attended a technical university in the Czech Republic in 1989 where I specialised in general lighting. After I graduated in 1991, I started working for a small local company doing disco lights. I met my partner Ladislav

We also have the new Robin Series. Robin means Robe Innovative Technology. We are adding more and more products to that range. The Robin Series has the ‘green’ technology we are trying to push forward. It may be interesting for our customers to know that we are really thinking about the future. The motto we are promoting now is ‘Think of the future. Consider nature.’ All the new Robin products are small and lightweight with a smaller carbon footprint. They consume less power so we call them ‘green’ lights. This has been something we have been paying attention to since we launched our Robin range in 2008. Since that time, we have added the 300 range, the 600 range and now we have the MMX. We are constantly adding more and more products so this is something that is quite unique in the market. We are very pleased with our LEDWash 600 range which was launched at PLASA last year and has become a record-breaking best-selling product. We just added the smaller version of the LEDWash 600 range, called the LEDWash 300 range, in Frankfurt (Prolight + Sound) this year. We began production of it in June and now it is taking oﬀ, so we have plenty to oﬀer to all our customers not only in Asia but worldwide.

ntertainment technology asia

Management Perspectives

PALME China exhibition, you could see all the copies of our products being displayed at the exhibition stands. Since they were not copies of our latest products, we are not taking any action. We are really paying attention to our intellectual property. We have over 45 patents granted or pending. We will be taking action against copies of the new Robin Series and all our new products. We are ready for them. ETA: What is the philosophy behind your products?

Valchar with the Robin MMX Spot

ETA: How has Robe’s results for Asia been so far? JV: The results are good. During the economic crisis, we did very well in Asia especially in China, Japan and Korea. These countries are really strong for us and these three countries are influencing the other countries as well. I have to say Singapore was a very good market for us last year and we see this trend continuing so we have been very happy with the results in Asia. ETA: Do you find any challenges or problems doing business in Asia? JV: The major problem is the import taxes. This is killing the business. It not a problem in China or Japan because the import taxes are not that high in these countries. It’s a problem in countries like India, Indonesia, Malaysia and other countries where the import taxes are high. It would help if the import taxes are at a certain level which can fit the business model as in other countries. ETA: Do you think there is a problem with the copying of intellectual property in Asia? JV: Absolutely. That’s one of the major problems we are facing because our lights are quite popular in China and if you went to the

JV: We have been focusing over the last three years on the environment. All our products are designed to fit that philosophy. People should be conserving our natural resources because they are not unlimited. We are in the lighting business so we use LED lights in all our installations. Our lighting fixtures are ‘green’ because they consume less power and we also try to make them as small as possible. A smaller fixture will require fewer parts so we save energy again by producing fewer parts for our fixtures. There are lighting products in the market that weigh 50-60 kgs and this is absolutely unnecessary. A smaller fixture will have a smaller carbon footprint. A smaller fixture will also save you energy in staging. A smaller fixture will require less trucking space, you need less people on the stage to handle the fixtures and you don’t need heavy duty trusses. This is especially the case in China because the stages there are absolutely the biggest. They think that the bigger and more powerful fixtures will produce more light. It has been a challenge for us to introduce this ‘green’ philosophy in China. We have to show them that the fixture with the highest power consumption is not necessarily the

brightest. China has big problems with energy and we hear that the government is now starting to promote ‘green’ technologies. Sooner or later, it will become a prerequisite for government projects to have fixtures that meet certain standards for physical size and power consumption. ETA: Which is your favourite Robe product? JV: At the moment, it is the LEDWash 600 because it is our best-selling product. We will have more new and exciting products coming soon. This is a good time for Robe because our business is growing and we have a good product portfolio. We are glad that the LEDWash 600 is selling well because it is really the first true LED wash light. Wash lights before were like beams with no colour mixing. We have removed all the disadvantages of the previous lights which were in the market. ETA: Why do you think your products are so successful? JV: We had a nice slogan when we launched the first video teaser of the LEDWash 600. The slogan stated, ‘We could not be the first because we wanted to be the best.’ That’s our motto. We have been working with LED lights since 2004, almost 7 years. Our LED wash lights have been in the market for four years. At that time the LED lights were not bright enough and they were only the single chips. We were waiting for the Cree 10 Watt RGBW multichip. That is why we said, ‘We could not be the first because we wanted to be the best.’ We built a good product based on the RGBW multichip and that’s the key to our success. www.robe.cz

Valchar’s favourite fixture, the Robin LEDWash 600

Management Perspectives

ntertainment technology asia

computer, which was my first computer, in my bedroom to design our lighting products. That was fourteen years ago. Today, we fullyown a large production facility in a town in the northern part of Italy called Castel Goffredo. It covers 3,000 square metres and our factory and offices are situated there. We manufacture 95 percent of our products and we export our goods to more than 50 countries around the world. Castel Goffredo is also the home town of other companies in the industry like Coemar and Griven.

Besio with the Nota 8/22 profile spotlight

Fabiano Besio Co-Founder Luci della Ribalta (LDR) srl Warm, approachable and soft-spoken, Fabiano Besio is one of the most recognisable people in the professional lighting industry. Frequently seen at trade shows, lighting events and exhibitions, Besio is very popular with his industry colleagues. Part of the reason for this is that he possesses a humble and unassuming demeanor and is very forthcoming when it comes to oﬀering his advice about lighting. A highly intellectual person, Besio has 18 years of experience in professional lighting. His extensive knowledge about lighting has made him a much sought-after speaker and he frequently conducts lectures and talks about lighting at universities. He also conducts training classes for lighting professionals to help improve their knowledge and skills. As co-founder of LDR, a major supplier of theatrical and architectural lighting fixtures, Besio juggles many responsibilities. Aside from being the designer for all LDR products, he also plays a major role in the company’s sales and marketing eﬀorts. In addition, Besio also establishes and maintains strong business relationships with LDR’s various distributors around the world who have contributed significantly to LDR’s success. In an exclusive interview with Entertainment Technology Asia Magazine, Besio talks about his extensive experience in the lighting industry, LDR’s plans for the Asian market

and oﬀers his insights about the future of professional lighting. ETA: How did you get your start in the business?

I’m still involved in the design of all LDR products. This means my product knowledge is very good and it helps me when I am selling our products. I have a good relationship with all the other industry manufacturers and I consider most of them as good friends even though they are competitors. I feel that the industry needs all the lighting manufacturers to be guided in the right direction by not misusing light sources. There is a right source for every lighting job. Sometimes this is in conflict with the interests of a company which is to sell their products and make a profit. However, we need to maintain our professionalism. We need to choose the right light source for the job. This is extremely important because, in architectural lighting, there is no sense in spending a lot of money to restore a very old theatre and then you don’t use the right light source to light up the architecture. We are all part of the lighting industry and we have the responsibility to use light sources correctly. People see the results of our work all around the world. The way a monument or House of Worship looks can be changed by the way it is lit. We should support our industry without misusing the diﬀerent light sources.

FB: I grew up in a small town in Italy called Lonato del Garda, which is in the province of Brescia. It is situated halfway between Milan and Venice on the southwest shore of Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy. I attended a local ETA: What are LDR’s plans for the Asian university there and after I graduated, I joined market? Coemar as a lighting designer. This was during the late 80s. After working for Coemar for a FB: My goal is to establish LDR as a leading couple of years, I left to perform my military lighting company in the Asian market. The service. I served in a tank division. After Asian market is growing very fast and that completing my military service, I returned is why we give it a lot of attention. It is very to work at Coemar for a couple of years important to us and we have appointed before joining another lighting company called Teatro (which means theatre in Italian) as a product manager. In 1997, I cofounded LDR with my partners Marco and Rossano Baietta, and Lisa Papi. In those days I was using a 486 (L-R) Fabiano Besio, Marco Baietta, Rossano Baietta and Lisa Papi

ntertainment technology asia

Management Perspectives

all these orders quickly and efficiently. Nevertheless, I am always interested in expanding our business and it is without a doubt that decentralising the manufacturing facilities around the world can help to reduce the shipping cost as well as match our products with the different market needs. Another way to meet the new challenges of today’s market would be to differentiate the products by using different brands. ETA: Are there any LDR products that you are particularly fond of?

The Canto Followspot – the best ‘deal’ in the market according to Besio.

distributors in Singapore, China and Japan who are producing extremely good results for us. This had made us very happy. However, it is not just about achieving sales targets. It is also important to see that your lights are installed in places where millions of people will see them. This exposure is more rewarding than the money you receive when you sell your products. We are also trying to diﬀerentiate ourselves from our competitors by providing our customers, through our distributors, special assistance for their specific needs that they will not find with other companies in the industry. Sometimes our customers are not be able to find the right lighting product for the right application. We try to stay in close contact with them to help them with special products or to suggest the right application. Through this process, we have obtained a lot of good feedback from our end-users and this has proven to be very useful for LDR. A lot of our success is due to this process of close communication between ourselves, our distributors and our end-users. New markets like Vietnam and Cambodia are very important and deserve a lot of attention as well because we see a lot of opportunities there. We want to meet with the future lighting designers that will design the most important projects in those countries. Our sales in Asian countries are growing significantly. All the Asian countries are opening their markets to the rest of the world and this presents many opportunities. ETA: Why do you think your products are selling well?

FB: Our products are selling well because we really pay attention to the importance of the quality of the light. Light involves many aspects such as the mechanics, the optics and the electrics. I am particularly proud of the light output of our products which is second to none. Being in close contact with our endusers, with the assistance of our valuable distributors around the world, also helps to make our products better because we can use their feedback to improve our products. This makes a lot of diﬀerence in the market. It is a combination of diﬀerent factors. The quality of our lighting products is the best and our after-sales service good. We react quickly to any query from our customers. Anyone from around the world can send an email directly to us and obtain an immediate answer. The size of our company helps to maintain this direct contact which is what the customer wants. Ultimately, the personal relationship we have with our customers is very important to us. We care about them very much. ETA: Is it important to have your products manufactured in Italy or do you intend to establish a manufacturing facility in Asia? FB: Having all our manufacturing facilities in Italy at one location helps us to have more control over the manufacturing process and maintain quality standards. It also helps us to meet the time schedules for manufacturing so that all the products will be delivered on time to the end-users. We are capable of shipping a product to any location in the world the day after we receive the order. Being in one location in Italy helps us to fulfill

FB: We have two products that are considered as among the best in the lighting market. The first is the Canto Followspot which has more than 8 models in the range with wattage of up to 2,000W. Demand for this product is very good and we produce more than 400 followspots per year. I feel that this product oﬀers the best ‘deal’ in the market in terms of price and performance. The second product is our Soﬃo range of architectural lights which utilises the 150W CDM lamp. Those are the two products that have received the best feedback. ETA: What are your predictions for the future of the lighting industry? FB: The market is evolving. There are plenty of undiscovered opportunities in the professional AVL industry and we must be ready to accept the new challenges. As lighting manufacturers, we should explore new technologies but we should not forget the basic concepts of lighting which no new technology can change because the basic concepts of light are subject to the principles of physics. We can use new technologies but we should not forget the importance of colour rendering, colour temperature and the fact that good mix is the perfect solution to any installation. At present, all the manufacturers are focussing their attention on LED technology and LDR is also developing profiles and fresnels using LED technology. However, we at LDR constantly emphasise that LED is not the solution for all applications. The right light source in the right place is the secret. The right mix of tungsten-halogen discharge and LED will help to provide the perfect solution for the market. This is not an opinion. This is fact and it is backed up by optics and physics. www.ldr.it

IN PERSPECTIVE

ntertainment technology asia

Powersoft targets Asian expansion by James Bose

Since opening its doors for business in 1995, Powersoft has become renowned for making super energy-eﬃcient amplifiers. Based in Florence, Italy, the company currently develops and sells high-end, patented technologies and solutions to over 50 countries. With its global distribution network in place, the company is experiencing rapid expansion and is now ready to devote its resources to further expansion into the lucrative Asian pro audio market. Although the company had very humble beginnings, Powersoft grew quickly thanks to the passion, hard work and determination of its founders - Carlo Lastrucci and his two sons Claudio and Luca as well as family friend Antonio Peruch. While they were studying at Florence University, Claudio and Luca Lastrucci became interested in electrical engineering and music. They began experimenting with amplification technology with Peruch, who was their classmate. After graduating with Electronics degrees, they formed Powersoft and quickly developed a strong reputation as a company with unique skills in advanced

electronics, software solutions for highend applications and power amplification technology. The name Powersoft reflects the two main souls of the company: power and software.

Powersoft ’s early years were quite diﬃcult because the digital era had not really begun and some of their ideas like Power Factor Correction (PFC) and Class D amplification were too advanced for the time but the

The Powersoft Team. (L-R) Ken Blecher, Tom Bensen, Luca Giorgi, Luca Lastrucci, Thomas Mittelmann, Claudio Lastrucci, Carlo Lastrucci and Antonio Peruch

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team persevered. Today, Powersoft ’s range of amplifiers are recognised throughout the world for their advanced technology that significantly reduces energy consumption. Their networking capabilities, audiophilequality sound and performance reliability are highly regarded by industry professionals. Powersoft amplifiers can be found in installation projects throughout the world like stadiums, theme parks, airports, convention centers, churches, clubs and are utilised by the world’s leading tour sound companies. According to Luca Giorgi, Powersoft ’s Global Sales Manager, the reason for the success of Powersoft ’s amplifiers can be summed up in one word - flexibility. “We believe that our amplifiers oﬀer the most flexibility of any amplifier you can buy,” he said. “When a users buy an amplifier from Powersoft, they can use it in any type of application project regardless of the mains voltage. If you have unstable voltage, the performance will not be compromised. The number of amplifiers you will require for a PA system will also be less when using our technology. Due to the size of our amplifiers, they will also oﬀer flexibility when it comes to transportation and storage options as well.” This flexibility has contributed to a period of stellar worldwide growth for the company. “We are growing very fast,” confided Giorgi. “Last year we grew by 40 percent. This year we are growing again by 35 percent with respect to worldwide sales and the growth is well-distributed so it is not due to a specific project.”

will produce results for sure. We also recently changed our distribution network in Japan and Korea and appointed new distributors. We believe this will produce results as well.” Powersoft are so confident of their growth prospects in Asia that they have set very ambitious growth targets for their Asian partners. “I think we need to bring Asia to 40 percent of our turnover within two years,” Giorgi said confidently, “because we believe that is possible. It is a challenging goal but we think it is feasible. Of course, under the current economic conditions, it is not easy. One unfortunate event could impact the rest of the world. However, we have been growing very fast and we are optimistic.” In order to achieve these growth targets, Giorgi believes that the right infrastructure needs to be in place and Powersoft is aggressively taking steps to reinforce its distribution network. “We need somebody nearer to the action. We already have one guy in Singapore, (Asia Pacific Sales Manager) Arthur Soh, but we need to reinforce this structure by possibly having a small logistics hub to serve the region. The next few months, we will be building the foundations of Powersoft Asia to serve our distribution network better, perhaps with a service centre with our own technicians located in Singapore or Hong Kong. We are currently evaluating this kind of thing. So, this is more or less the strategy. We are trying to establish a more direct presence, not because we want to sell directly to our customers, but because we believe that being nearer to our partners could be beneficial for them.

Although Powersoft envisions strong growth for their business in Asia, they are also currently experiencing some challenges. “The main problem we face in doing business in Asia is that some companies make cheap copies of our products,” remarked Giorgi. “I’m worried about the attitude of these companies who try to present their products to the end-user like it is the same as ours. I think this is completely unfair. Obviously, the diﬀerence Luca Giorgi, Powersoft ’s Global Sales Manager in pricing can persuade the endIn spite of these impressive results, Giorgi user that the copy is a better buy because feels that there is even more potential for they think that it is the same product. This is growth and the region that presents the completely unacceptable.” biggest potential is Asia. “In the past we had very little exposure in Asia,” Giorgi reflected. Giorgi thinks that the problem of copying “For the last few years, Powersoft ’s image has intellectual property in Asia is so pervasive grown a lot. This has changed the appeal of that he has encountered companies from the brand with respect to the key players in China that not only copy Powersoft ’s products the diﬀerent countries. We experienced a big but also copy the way Powersoft display their growth in China but we believe there is even products. “We have a display where we place more potential there. We have started putting an amplifier rack with multiple amplifiers on the right network in Southeast Asia and this a rotating spiral at exhibitions. Unfortunately,

IN PERSPECTIVE

we are unable to patent this display. At some shows in China, I have seen companies employ the same type of display. This is not good because the end-user might mistake their product for ours.” In order to prevent any confusion, Powersoft is taking measures against companies who copy their intellectual property as well as those who support them. “Taking legal action is useless,” Giorgi opines. “Normally we try to talk directly to these companies (who copy Powersoft ’s products) to verify whether they will stop doing it. We have also told magazines who publish advertising from these companies that we will not support them because what they are doing is not fair. Thirdly, we have asked the European Community for protection against companies who copy our patents. Unfortunately, this is hard to enforce outside of Europe. We do not have many other tools to use.” Despite these problems, Giorgi thinks that Powersoft ’s range of amplifiers will continue to have wide appeal throughout Asia because of their quality, reliability and technology. Their K3 amplifier continues to be their top selling individual model and their M series of amplifiers are their best-selling range. However, the product that Giorgi thinks will have the biggest impact in the installation sector is the new Ottocanali 1204 amplifier. “We believe it will be a big success because of its characteristics,” he enthused. “I don’t think there is a another amplifier quite like it in the market in terms of size, power consumption and flexibility. The monitoring of the load through our Armonia software is another plus for this product. Although we don’t have the figures yet, we are very confident that it will be a success in the installation sector as well as an energy ‘star’.”

The Ottocanali 1204 amplifier

With the rising popularity of their amplifiers, the dedication of more resources towards developing their infrastructure in the Asian market, the appointment of new distributors as well as the introduction of new products, Powersoft is poised to become a dominant player in the Asian pro audio market for a long time to come. www.powersoft-audio.com

EXHIBITION REVIEW

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Prolight + Sound Shanghai 2011 sets new record Prolight + Sound Shanghai, which took place from 11 – 14 October 2011 at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre, has set a new record for exhibition space with three halls and an outdoor area totaling 25,000 sqm. This year’s show was relocated to a new position within the showground which oﬀers more exhibitor and visitor convenience. The sound hall and non-sound hall were moved closer to a new show entrance and registration area which is a short walking distance from the metro line and a newly built hotel. More than 400 exhibitors from 18 countries and regions showcased their latest products. Brands on display included AKG, American DJ, Antari, Barix, Behringer, D.A.S. Audio, Dataton, Duran Audio, EM Acoustics, Hoellstern, JTS, K-array, Klippel, KV2 Audio, KVANT, LAX, Mackie, msm-studios, Neumann, Pangolin, Peavey, Penn-Elcom, Sennheiser, Soundking, Tom Lee, TW Audio, Verlinde and Wenger. Visitors were also able to view products from the German and Taiwan pavilions as well as the debut pavilion hosted by the Shanghai Performance Trade Association. A diverse range of events and fringe programmes which covered the full industry spectrum from manufacturer to end-user was held during the show’s four days. The Concert Sound Arena, which was a live line array demonstration from six leading brands, attracted huge crowds. The demonstration

gave the audience an opportunity to experience these systems under realistic outdoor conditions. The participating brands were Audiocenter (China), Duran Audio (Netherlands), KV2 Audio (UK), Peavey (USA), Soundking (China) and TW Audio (Germany). Another popular feature of the exhibition was the Headphone Demonstration Corner which was dedicated to broadcasting and studio sound professionals. This feature also allowed audiophiles to experience the exquisite sound from the latest headphones from top brands like AKG, beyerdynamic, JTS, Sennheiser, Superlux and Takstar. There were a number of seminars that were conducted throughout the exhibition. The Premier Contractor Seminar, which was held on the first day of the exhibition was well attended by many industry professionals and recording engineers. Co-organised with the China Association of Recording Engineers, this seminar shared various aspects of pro-audio industry development. Also held on the first day of the exhibition was the TV Studio Technology Forum. Organised in conjunction with the Studio Art (Lighting) Work Council of China Radio and Television Association, lighting engineers from various Chinese TV stations shared their expertise in incorporating LED displays into traditional studio equipment and technology. They also

talked about the application of professional lighting in TV broadcasting. People who were new to stage design got a chance to further their knowledge about the subject during the Stage Art for Large Performance Forum which was held on the second day of the exhibition. This forum included professional training and case studies of modern Chinese stage design. Presenters included Mr Liu Wen Hao, chief lighting designer for Universiade 2011 and the Paralympic Games 2008, and Mr Miao Pei Ru, chief designer of the 2010 Asian Games. Those who were familiar with stage design but wanted to know how to use multimedia simulation in stage performance were able to obtain valuable insights into this topic at the Discover the Latest Stage Design Technology and Equipment forum, which was also held on the second day. As usual, there were many product presentations conducted throughout the exhibition. Among the leading companies who unveiled their latest products and technologies were Duran Audio (the Netherlands), Klippel (Germany), Mackie (USA) and msm-studios (Germany). www.prolightsound-shanghai.com

EXHIBITION REVIEW

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Highlights from the exhibition floor...

Antari Fog Machines

D.A.S. Audio

The Antari AF-5 is a verstile special effects blow fan with onboard wireless control and DMX. It is suited for the touring, club, theatrical and house of worship markets. With three different fan speeds, the AF-5 allows users to control the amount Antari AF-5 high powered DMX special of wind blown on to a stage, effects blow fan dance floor or any other setting. Aside from creating the effect of the wind, the AF-5 can be used to make fog, haze, snow and bubbles. The AF-5 also has an adjustable 45 degree wind angle which makes it flexible enough to excel in a variety of applications,

The D.A.S. Audio booth attracted plenty of visitors due to the large number of products on display. However, the product which attracted the most attention was the Convert 12A powered, two-way curved source array. It is ideal for use in small to medium live events as well as permanent installations.

Made of polypropylene plastic, the robust AF-5 is well-suited for touring applications. The AF-5 is also compact, lightweight and easy to transport. The 1-horsepower unit measures 530 mm long (20.9”) by 470 mm (18.5”) wide by 490 mm high (19.3”) and weighs 17.5 kilograms (38.6 lbs).

The Convert 12A enclosure is constructed of birch plywood finished with the durable Iso-Flex black paint. The rigging system can be used to form vertical The Convert two-way source array curved source arrays of up to 6 units. The Convert 12A includes a pole mount socket with variable inclination for use as a satellite unit in combination with subwoofers.

www.antari.com

www.dasaudio.com

FBT Electronica

FBT Export Manager Roberto Mataloni

The Italian manufacturer of high quality professional audio products was out in full force during the exhibition. In their booth were products from their bestselling EvoMaxX series of speakers and Mitus series. The EvoMaxX series of speakers evolved from the FBTMaxX series. Along with key performance and portability improvements, FBT developed the EvoMaxX Series to offer the customers more value for money. EvoMaxX’s lightweight yet sturdy polypropylene cabinets feature a monitor taper designed to ensure that they perform with excellence no matter whether they are used at front of house for a main sound system, as stage floor monitors or within permanent installations. The EvoMaxX series consists of four powered and three passive models. The new MITUS sound reinforcement series offers a comprehensive range of line array systems, speakers, subwoofers and monitor systems. They are available in active or passive design to deliver the finest sound in all applications. Five different configurations are available which allow the systems to be suspended or ground stacked. A wide range of accessories makes the MITUS range extremely flexible for live or permanent installations. www.fbt.it

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EXHIBITION REVIEW

LAX Sound LAX Sound had the OP Operation line array system on display. It is designed for large scale events such as concerts and fixed installation applications like clubs, theatres and churches. Also on display was the AT Ultra-Compact line array system. This system is highly flexible and can be used for a variety of applications, from stadiums to conference rooms. Another highly flexible product displayed at the LAX booth was the TH1000 Engineering System. This system can LAX Vice Director Ken Lau with be used in auditoriums and large-scale the OP Operation Line Array conference halls. LAX Vice Director Ken Lau said, ”Our products are used in major international events line the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and are recognised for their quality, technology and reliability.” www.laxpro.net

Sennheiser This year, the Sennheiser booth was a Jazz lounge with live stage performances from culturally diverse bands from around the world. Needles to say, many people were drawn to it for the wonderful music and the many Sennheiser products on display. On the stage were the Sennheiser K-array series of loudspeakers, the Sennheiser G3 wireless microphone and the evolution 900 wired microphone. They were used by the bands who performed on stage. Visitors were treated to performances by the Noukilla band from Mauritius, Aha - a Shanghai University student band famous for singing without musical accompaniment. Also performing were Greg & Matt, Dana & Vlad and Irina. Sennheiser headphones and K-arrays were also used to equip the outdoor Jazz Stage at the Music China exhibition. People from every corner of the venue were able to enjoy the great music from the Sennheiser speakers. www.sennheiserasia.com

Weifa Truss On display at the Weifa Truss booth was their new E1400 Big Truss. The Weifa truss weld adheres to international quality standards “aviation aluminium 6082 -T6”. Having passed the loading test, hoisting and loading can be E1400 Big Truss safely performed according to guidelines. This product is light weight, stress corrosive and pressure resistant. The newlydesigned spigot and pin connector is also easy to install and disassemble. www.weifa.com.cn

EXHIBITION REVIEW

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New products and strong attendance highlight successful PLASA 2011 This year’s PLASA show provided visitors with plenty to talk about as over 500 new products were launched, including major new developments in audio, AV, lighting and staging. There was also a series of new interactive features such as STLD’s LED Luminaire Shootout, the Theatres Trust Ecovenue feature and the new PLASA Production Bar which drew large crowds of people. Organisers PLASA Events were “delighted” with visitor figures of over 12,000, showing a marginal increase over 2010 and strong international engagement from across the world during the four-day exhibition at Earls Court in London. Events Manager Sophie Atkinson commented, “Exhibitors have been enthusing about the high quality of visitors and the rate of sales enquiries, and with hundreds of new products being launched, there has been a great return on investment for them. We expect to see many back here at Earls Court next year.” Visitors were eager to get their hands on the industry’s hottest new products and there were a number of ‘behind closed doors’ prototype demonstrations of ideas expected to be unveiled in full next year. The second PLASA Rigging Conference turned out to be a big success and was attended by 175 delegates from 18 countries, some

travelling from as far as Malaysia, Singapore, Sweden, Canada, the USA, Hong Kong and Australia, to share their knowledge and experience as well as to learn more about this fast-changing field. The expanded Education and Learning Programme also proved to be very popular with visitors. It drew over 2,200 people. The Gottelier Masterclass by ETC’s Fred Foster, ‘Lighting Visualisation at the Royal Opera House’, the ALD’s ‘50 Years of Lighting’, the RST and Stage Electrics’ ‘Transforming Theatres’, Bernie Davies’ ‘Lighting Big Events for Television’ and MA Lighting’s ‘How the Sun works and why the fixture weighs so much!’ drew huge crowds and were all standing room only. “The show just gets better and better - it’s busy from beginning to end and our distributors and customers come from all over Europe, not just the UK, to check out the new products,” said Mark Vassallo, VP of Global Sales at ETC. Clay Paky’s Pio Nahum was also pleased with the show. “The show has been very good. We had a very strong attendance and our stand was always full of people with our range of new products being extremely well received.” At Martin Professional, Larry Beck also said that the company’s new products had been very well received. “We’ve been ecstatic with the reception to our new product, which is

our big launch here at the show. And winning a PLASA award put everybody in an even better mood. The show’s been good, and as far as the quality of customer is concerned, we couldn’t be happier. A great premiere to our 25th anniversary next year.” Jiri Baros at Robe commented, “PLASA is a very international show covering all parts of the world and the response to our new products has been great - we’ve taken significant orders for some of them, so we’re very happy.” Simon Smith, Sales Director for Christie EMEA, enjoyed the positive response to the company’s projection demonstration and to its innovative new display system. “In terms of footfall through the stand we’ve been consistently busy. Our stand has created a lot of interest, and we met a lot of end users at PLASA.” Sophie Atkinson concluded, “The strength of the PLASA Show, its vibrant atmosphere, its supporting programme of events and the fact that so many exhibitors choose it as their new product launchpad underlines its importance in the international marketplace.” The PLASA Show returns to Earls Court from 9 - 12 September 2012. www.plasashow.com

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EXHIBITION REVIEW

Clay Paky launch exciting new products with minimum programming. The unit oﬀers uncompromising image quality, intense brightness, excellent beam uniformity, silent operation and low energy consumption. A product that attracted a lot of attention was the Igloo, a temperature-regulating enclosure that allows sub-700W moving lights to operate in any weather, even in sub-zero temperatures. Igloo comes with an IP67 power socket, an onboard wireless DMX receiver, and a unique system that maintains operational temperature between 0°C and 35°C (32°F and 95°F).

The GlowUp

“The reaction to the Shotlight has been amazing,” commented Commercial Director Pio Nahum. “There’s nothing else like it, so we realise it has to be seen to be fully appreciated. At the demo, we had 12 units working in sync, which really gave us an opportunity to show oﬀ its true potential for the first time. All the designers who saw the Shotlight were deeply impressed, and we’ve experienced an immediate spike in interest as a result.” www.claypaky.it

Visitors to the Clay Paky booth were able to view the GlowUp, a portable, batterypowered uplight. The wireless colour changer is intended for temporary architectural applications where access to power is limited or where cables represent a safety issue. Another brand new fixture on display was the Alpha Spot QWO 800, a compact 800W spotlight packed with artistic features such as an animation wheel for creating life-like projections, a self-focusing zoom with 7° to 55° range and the new Dyna-Cue Creator capable of enabling complex animations

During the exhibition, Clay Paky designer Giovanni Zucchinali conducted a lightshow and demo for visitors. The lightshow not only displayed the capabilities of last year’s products like the Sharpy and the Shotlight Wash but also provided a glimpse of next year’s technologies as well.

The Alpha Spot QWO 800

The Igloo

DTS Lighting unveil brand new moving heads Four brand new, high-power, compact moving heads were on display at the DTS Lighting booth. They were the Jack Spot, the Nick 600 Wash RGBW, the Nick 600 Wash Full Colour and the Nick 600 Wash Full White. The Jack Spot is fitted with an advanced MSD Platinum 5R 189W discharge lamp, a wide excursion motorised zoom and ultra-fast and silent Pan/Tilt. The Jack Spot combines a massive luminosity of 28.000 Lux at 5m, extremely uniform projection, with luminosity regularly diﬀused at any point of the light beam, making this unit ideal for big shows and big stages. The Jack Spot has also been ergonomically engineered. It weighs only 11 kg, making it very easy to transport, install, and store.

The Jack Spot

The Nick 600 Wash RGBW is available either with a 13,5° - 40° motorised zoom, or with three interchangeable optical units (Spot, Medium flood, Wide flood), and ultra-fast and silent Pan/Tilt (also available featuring the breakthrough ‘FAR’ technology). The Nick 600

Wash RGBW is one of the brightest compact LED projectors on the market. Luminous flux is no less than 9.750 Lumens. The Nick 600 Wash RGBW is suitable for a variety of applications, such as lighting shopping malls, libraries, museums, exhibitions, clubs, restaurants, buildings, monuments, as well as concerts, special events, fashion displays, etc. The unit is easily installable even in the most refined settings, thanks to its attractive appearance. www.dts-lighting.com

The Nick 600 Wash RGBW

EXHIBITION REVIEW

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FBT display full line up to provide quick equalisation contours to accomodate any acoustically challenging venue. FBT developed the EvoMaxX Series to oﬀer customers more value for money. EvoMaxX’s lightweight yet sturdy polypropylene cabinets feature a monitor taper designed to ensure that they perform well regardless of whether they are used at front of house for a main sound system, as stage floor monitors or within permanent installations.

FBT’s Export Manager Roberto Mataloni with the EvoMaxX speakers

FBT exhibited a full line up of professional audio products including the new EvoMaxX speaker series and the SUB Line active subwoofers along with other best-selling models from their product range. Evolving from the FBTMaxX Series of loudpeakers, the new FBT EvoMaxX speakers feature new woofers and even lighter, more powerful Class D amplifiers with an extremely low noise floor. The EvoMaxX speakers also feature an EvoMaxX digital signal processor with four presets

The EvoMaxX series consists of four powered and three passive models including the Subline 15Sa and 18Sa, all of which boast birch plywood enclosures with 15” band-pass and 18” reflex designs respectively. The SUBline series consist of 15Sa/15S and 18Sa/18S subwoofer models, built in birch plywood and aimed to extend the low frequency response to a wide range of FBT speaker systems. They are designed in 15” band-pass and 18” bass-reflex respectively and are available in powered or passive versions. www.fbt.it

Green Hippo display Hippotizer Version 3.1 Green Hippo had its Hippotizer Version 3.1 on full display at their familiar doubledecker stand with a collection of new features across both hardware and software. UberPan is perhaps the most eagerly anticipated component but the programming team have added new features and tweaks such as LiveMask, DMX2 and Realtime Sync. In addition, the Graphical User Interface for ZooKeeper has been reworked. The Hippotizer installer has several new Input Card Options with improved performance and native drivers. Furthermore, several systems are now benefitting from unlocked output resolution and additional layers which opens up new applications and possibilities for many of the servers across the range. Many of the existing features have been fine tuned as well. These include merging and mixing of video maps, timeline updates for modes and paths, new FX’s and generators, updated diagnostics software and speedometer, PixelMapper updates with Colour Kinetics ki-net support and import/export improvements. DVI

Hippotizer Version3.1

Emulators, known as Parrots, are now shipping as standard on Hippotizer and new breakout panel options are now available for GrassHopper and HippoCritter variants allowing professional connectors on more models in the range. Also on show was a sneak preview of Green Hippo’s forthcoming architectural mapping solution from the Special Projects division. To help visitors understand its unique features Green Hippo projected it onto a 4-foot high, detailed, hand-crafted dolls house. There were also working demonstrations of their multi-screen software suite known as JigSaw. www.green-hippo.com

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EXHIBITION REVIEW

MA Lighting release new GrandMA2 software Version 2.4 The PLASA exhibition was the ideal opportunity for MA Lighting to release the GrandMA2 software Version 2.4 which received plenty of good feedback from visitors. “Introducing our software release 2.4 at PLASA gave us the opportunity to directly receive comments from our customers who were very content about this step towards an even more powerful grandMA2,” said MA Lighting’s Managing Director Michael Althaus.

dimMA compact RCBO

GrandMA2 Version 2.4 adds a multitude of new functionality, such as preview of cue values in all sheets and in the grandMA 3D software, cue zero as a new sequence tracking option, temporary views for groups, sequences, views, macros and eﬀects. There is also a template show folder for write protected showfiles and new programming functions like circular copy, shuﬄe values, odd ID/even ID selection and user-defined programmer/executor times.

was the dimMA compact RCBO which combines the well-known reliability of their touring dimmers with the outstanding features of the MA-Net2/MA-Net network architecture. With the dimMA compact RCBO, every channel is protected with single RCBO (combination of RCD and MCB), to reach a new level of safety and to ensure the operation of the remaining channels even if a single channel causes an earth leakage or over-current.

Also on display at the MA Lighting booth

www.malighting.com

TOUCH THE

FUTURE TIGER TOUCH

Outline adds to the GTO family summer 2010 were sold and earmarked for immediate use on high-profile concerts and tours, initially in the USA and then Europe. Those systems, says the company, were not prototypes but standard production models. However, the GTO family continues to grow. During the show, the Italian company also unveiled its GTO-DF (Down-fill). This element is mechanically compatible with GTO and conceived and designed with the sole aim of providing audio coverage for the first rows of the audience in every type of event at which GTO systems are used. The GTO-DF

Outline debuted its GTO large-format linesource system at the show. The result of a two-year cooperation between Outline and some of the world’s best-known rental companies, GTO (Grand Touring Outline) has already had a highly successful start. The first systems that left the factory in

From the design point of view, the GTODF is eye-catching, with its aperture (120°) gradually flaring out downwards. As opposed to the GTO, which has ten loudspeakers, this element uses six, four 8-inch mid-woofers and two 3-inch compression drivers. www.outline.it

POWER CUBE

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

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

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Martin Professional MAC Aura wins PLASA Innovation Award The MAC Aura delivers

almost 4000 lumens of output in an ultra-compact 5.6 kg (12.3 lb) package for a performance to size ratio not found in comparable fixtures. And the Aura moves at a speed and precision that was once only associated with moving mirrors. Thanks to an excellent cooling system and high optical eﬃciency, the MAC Aura is also extremely The MAC Aura quiet while super-low power consumption (1 amp) allows So impressive was the MAC Aura that it multi ple fi xtures to be daisy-chained on the walked away with the PLASA Innovation Award. The PLASA Awards for Innovation same power line for an easier, faster and recognise products that advance the less expensive installation.

The Martin Professional booth was a hive of activity. Most visitors were there to see the MAC Aura, the first compact LED moving head wash light with zoom that oﬀers never-before-seen “eye-candy aura” eﬀects as well as functioning as a highly capable single-lens wash with fully pre-mixed colour.

industry by demonstrating a new style of thinking or improving technical practice or safety. PLASA CEO Matthew Griffiths presented Martin Product Manager Peter Skytte with the Award, a recognition of the MAC Aura’s ground-breaking optical system. The MAC Aura’s optical system combines two illumination systems in one luminaire - multi-colour beam LEDs and a backlight LED lens array. An unrivaled 11-58° zoom offers fantastic beam effects with great definition, capable of angling wide or extremely tight for high intensity beam looks. A uniform field of light and excellent efficiency is maintained throughout the zoom range.

www.martin.com

Soren Storm (left), Managing Director of Martin Singapore, and PR Coordinator Larry Beck pose below the MAC Aura lights

Philips Stagepainter takes LED to a new level colour consistency and brightness, creating drama and spectacle with simplicity and ease.

Stagepainter D60 2000 system

Taking centre-stage at the Philips booth was the StagePainter D60 2000 – a system so flexible and controllable, it enables lighting designers to paint exactly the scene they want with LED light. The StagePainter solution, designed in ADB’s ALC4-2 fixture, provides a viable, energy-eﬃcient alternative to traditional halogen lamps in entertainment applications. Due to the integrated colour mixing, Stagepainter produces perfectly controllable light. It also goes beyond existing LED stage lighting capabilities to provide superior control over

In addition to this, Philips’ Platinum lighting technology, which debuted in 2009, continues to be embraced by many manufacturers. Prior to PLASA, Philips Platinum lighting technology was incorporated into 12 fixtures from seven OEM partners. www.philips.com

Philips Platinum lighting technology

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EXHIBITION REVIEW

Prolyte’s H40R Truss attracts visitors truss with a higher loading capacity. With his team of engineers he has designed the H40R truss, a rectangular standard H40 truss with a very clever programme of specifications based on the H30V, H40V and S36R truss.

V po w er P ixel Tr iba r

The H40R has three-sided webbing. The thicker braces on the bottom side allow easy mounting of automated luminaires/ moving heads and central loading, reducing the torsion eﬀect resulting from one-sided loading in standard trusses. The spigot orientation follows that of the S series truss, allowing easy assembly while the truss is still on the floor. The H40R measures 387 mm high by 287 mm wide. The diagonals are placed to allow room for a 30D truss to rest on the bottom chords.

Over at the Prolyte Group stand, there was plenty of interest in their new H40R Truss which is essentially a combination of the best features of their top-selling trusses. Prolyte’s Brand Manager Eric Laanstra had frequently received enquiries for a smaller

Its compact design makes the H40R easier and more cost-eﬀective to transport. The loading rate is comparable to the H40V, although lateral forces are limited due to the three-sided webbing. The H40R is available in all standard lengths as well as a box-corner. Apart from the standard lenghts and boxcorner for the H40R range, Prolyte has added a convenient box corner attachment.

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rco

Vp ow er 60 3

www.prolyte.com

QSC extends KLA Series

www.qscaudio.com

3 12 er

Available in black and white, the KLA Series is comprised of two models, the KLA12 a 12-inch, two-way, line array element and the KLA181 an 18-inch direct radiating subwoofer. KLA12 is an 18-degree fixed-arcuate line array element allowing installers to create a 90 X 90 degree array using only five KLA12 enclosures.

“With the House of K line, system integrators, designers and installers have an incredible arsenal of tools that they can utilise to meet the requirements of contemporary sound applications,” said Ray van Straten, QSC’s marketing communications manager. “Since their introduction, the K Family of products has continually exceeded our customers’ expectations

in terms of sonic performance, ease of deployment, reliability, and versatility. They have become the go-to solution over and over again. Now, with the addition of the KLA line array to the family, the House of K oﬀers an unbeatable solution for an even larger range of venues. We’re very excited about the product and what it represents to our customers.”

QSC Audio Products featured their new KLA Series Active Line Array System which is the latest addition to the House of K Family of active loudspeakers. With similar user interfaces and sonic performance characteristics throughout the family, the K Family models can easily be mixed and matched to suit a wide range of applications for installed sound, as well as rental and portable PA, says the company.

LONGMAN INERNATIONAL GROUP CO. LIMITED Tel : +86-20-26272917 Fax : +86-20-26271441

Total Solution Marketing Pte Ltd Tel : +6562879878 Fax : +6562879388

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Renkus-Heinz displays IC2 combining the control and flexibility of Iconyx digitally steerable technology with the power and focus of a point source loudspeaker, creating the world’s first ‘hybrid array’ with the full benefits of both technologies.

The IC2

Renkus-Heinz displayed its latest products on the POLARaudio stand. Heading the list on the stand was the unique IC2 (IC Squared) - the first ever high powered, medium format digitally steerable loudspeaker system designed for theatre and club installations. It integrates digital beam steering with high power output, built in amplification and RHAON network control. According to Renkus-Heinz, it opens up “a totally new product sector in pro audio, for venues looking for the ultimate in quality and control.” IC2 was designed to set a new benchmark in live sound loudspeaker design by

Each IC2 two-way 8-inch module delivers “articulate musicality and powerful punch”, with a versatile design that can be used as a stand-alone high-performance loudspeaker, a small ground stack or a flown array of up to 20 cabinets. A full dual IC Live digital beam steering system with matching IC215S-R subwoofers, and a single cutaway IC2, gave visitors a chance to see this special technology. The display was completed by a single IC16R digitally beam-steered installation loudspeaker. Attendees at the Technology for Worship Pavilion lectures had the privilege of hearing the presenters over an IC Live system with an IC Live and matching subwoofer on either side of the stage. www.renkus-heinz.com

Robert Juliat launches Aledin LED Wash

w ww.globaltruss.com.tw

Robert Juliat’s launch of the Aledin 330LF LED Wash was hailed a great success at the show. It was designed as a complement to the award-winning Aledin 630 Profile, the industry’s first LED profile which the company launched at PLASA last year, the Aledin Wash is based around the same 85W LED light source. Available in a choice of two colour temperatures (3500K and 5800K), Aledin Wash is suitable for a whole spectrum of uses. Its flicker-free, dimmable ballast and variable beam angles make this a perfect unit for television studios where it is already proving a great hit.

Robert Juliat were delighted with the reception Aledin Wash received at the show. “The Aledin 330LF LED Wash made a huge impact on its release at PLASA 2011,” said Lionel Garraud, Robert Juliat’s Sales Director. “The customers, which include hire companies, television studios and venues, which invested in the Aledin 630 LED Profile last year were very happy to see the Wash come on to the market. It forms the perfect complement to Aledin Profile and a large number of orders for the new-comer were placed directly on the stand. We are very pleased with the response it has received.” www.robertjuliat.com

GLOBAL TRUSS in---S.E.Asia www.tsm-int.com Phone:+65-6287987 sales@tsm-int.com

ntertainment technology asia

EXHIBITION REVIEW

59 Wireless done right!

Robe enjoys ‘awesome’ show

Sales Director Harry von den Stemmen (left) and CEO Josef Valchar with the Robin 1200 LEDWash

The Robe booth was an awesome sight as the Czech company took the opportunity to launch two new products, the Robin DLX Spot - the world’s first RGBW LED based moving head, and the ROBIN 1200 LEDWash, the latest addition to the hugely popular Robin LEDWash family. There was also a special preview of the Robin Sniper concept - a mega-bright fixture with supertight 230 mm parallel fat beam. There were large crowds at the stand throughout the 4 days of the show. Most people were there to learn about the new launches as well as the Robin MMX Spot, the first in the next generation of ‘workhorse’ 1200 series fixtures. There was also considerable interest in the Robin 300 and 600 Spot, Wash and Beam ranges. This year’s stand also included a special enclosed demonstration studio where individual presentations were given to invited guests focusing on the finer details of the new product releases. All these slots were also fully booked throughout the entire four days.

Robe also took the opportunity to celebrate the sale of its 5000th Robin 600 LEDWash luminaire during the show. The Robin 600 LEDWash has become the fastest selling product in the co m p a ny ’s history. It was launched at last year’s PLASA show and the first units rolled oﬀ the production line in the Czech Republic in December 2010. The Robin Sniper concept

Robe’s traditional Sunday night party slot at the Café de Paris in central London was attended by over 600 guests. There was live music, great food and lots of entertainment. Robe CEO Josef Valchar commented, “We had a fantastic show in all ways. The new products were very well received, which also reinforces our thoughts and ideas for the future. We met lots of international and high value new contacts in addition to many of our worldwide distributors along with a wide mix of our existing clients and friends, and it provided a great forum for all of us to catch up on both business and social fronts. I think the exhibition continues to be among the most important in Europe for the entertainment sector.” www.robe.cz

• Industrys most reliable wireless DMX/RDM system • Automated Cognitive Coexistence • Is not disturbed by and will not disturb other systems • Lowest latency in the industry at 5 ms • Link range: 500-1000 meters line-of-sight • Advanced 128 bit encryption • One button takes care of all setup

For more information about LumenRadio’s wireless control products, please visit www.tsm-int.com

Robin MMX Spot www.tsm-int.com • Phone: +65-62879878 • sales@tsm-int.com

They’re all grown and ready to hit the road.

EXHIBITION REVIEW

ntertainment technology asia

W-DMX™ awards Best OEM Partners and Distributors • Best Installation Asia: ULA Group for Marina Bay Sands

THE LITTLE ONES ARE NOW SHIPPING At less than 61 cm tall and only 20 kg, the VLX3 LED Wash boasts 6,000 lumens using 3 x 120W replaceable custom RGBW LED chipsets with a 10,000 hour source life, all with individual LED control. Coming in under 64 cm tall and only 25 kg, the VL400 Spot provides 9,000 lumens of output from a 400W MSR Gold 400 Philips MiniFastFit ůĂŵƉ ĂŶĚ ŚĂƐ ϭϰ ĮǆĞĚ ĐŽůŽƌƐ ŽŶ ƚǁŽ independent color wheels. All created under 64 cm tall and only 25.5 kg, the VL440, VL770, and VL880 Spot luminaires are complete with a 3-wheel CYM color assembly for rich, saturated colors. The VL440 uses a 400W MSR Gold 400 Philips MiniFastFit lamp to produce 9000 lumens of output, the VL770 has a 700W MSR Gold 700 Philips MiniFastFit lamp which produces 15,100 lumens of output, and the VL880 is complete with a 800W MSR WŚŝůŝƉƐ WůĂƟŶƵŵ ϯϱ ůĂŵƉ ƉƌŽĚƵĐŝŶŐ 19,000 lumens of output. For a complete list of product features visit www.vari-lite.com.

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

Wei Kai Jiang of Golden Sea Professional Equipment receives his award from Niclas Arvidsson

Wireless Solution Sweden AB congratulated the Best of W-DMX™ winners for 2011, awarded at a special ceremony during PLASA to celebrate 100,000 W-DMX units shipped worldwide. The company held its famous Swedish vodka and meatball party to toast the event. The winners were: • Best Asia/Oceania Partner: ULA Group • Highest OEM Sales: Golden Sea Professional Equipment • Best Debuting OEM: Guangzhou Yajiang Photoelectric Ltd. • Most Promising OEM: Philips Vari*Lite • Best Installation Asia: Laservision for Marina Bay Sands

Niclas Arvidsson, CEO of Wireless Solution said, “We owe so much of our success to the hard work and dedication of our distributors, OEM partners and the outstanding installations around the world using W-DMX. This is just a small way we can give them the recognition they’ve earned and we look forward to many more success stories to come.” In addition, Wireless Solution displayed the new BlueBox RDM Controller. It allows users to search for any RDM enabled product in a DMX/RDM Network, automatically patch and control the fixture, receive status updates and configure settings such as fixture mode, lamp on/oﬀ and more. BlueBox works with the W-DMX™ G4 range and will automatically search for and find any G4 transmitters and RDM enabled G4 receivers. Signal strength and wireless channels are displayed, plus configuration options such as signal power, transmitter/ receiver pairing and compatibility modes. www.wirelessdmx.com

GLP launch breakthrough technology GLP chose this year’s PLASA show to launch a revolutionary new LED washlight from its Impression range as well as a new video display and controller from G-LEC. The new Impression Wash One boasts a 400W RGB LED light engine and the same groundbreaking technology as the Spot One. The fully-featured luminaire is able to deliver delicate colour changes or instantaneous colour bumps over a wide, carefully-calibrated colour spectrum. The Impression Wash One oﬀers a 6°-60° zoom range but the key diﬀerentiator is its innovative 3° narrow beam mode and its unique variable soft-edge beam control that allows softness adjustment. Another attribute is the beam shaping function that enables the user to illuminate only the parts of a stage that need to be lit. With its baseless yoke the Wash One weighs just 22 kg...perfect both for transportation and flexible stage rigging (in any orientation).

GLP Head of Marketing Uli Steinle with the Impression Wash One

GLP also launched a new device called G-LEC Video Processor. Available in three versions (Pro, Standard and PC) the video processor’s generic features include a 30 sec set-up time (with automated placement, snap features and stage plan picture underlay) and intuitive ‘What You See Is What You Get’ placement, oﬀering individual panel scaling and a single video input to many diﬀerent pixel pitches. www.glp.de

ntertainment technology asia

INSTALL

Melbourne’s Regent Theatre

Australia

Phantom of the Opera returns with Digico The Phantom of the Opera has been seen by over 100 million people globally and with the show taking more than $5 billion at the box oﬃce, it’s considered by many as the most successful theatre show of all time. Love Never Dies, the dazzling sequel to the Phantom of the Opera, has hit the Australian scene and it’s had some mighty big shoes to fill. Melbourne’s Regent Theatre was home to the Australian debut of Love Never Dies in May and the show has been running nonstop, tugging at the heart strings of audience members since its premiere. Theatre specialists System Sound were handed the audio reigns due to their extensive experience in professional theatre. The team at System Sound decided to use their brand new DiGiCo SD7T console complete with an EX-007 expansion console, 5 x DiGi-Racks and an SD8 on monitors for good measure.

Behind the stage, three full sized DiGi-Racks were also commissioned. The first rack was dedicated to handling all radio mics (with most people on stage carrying a redundant mic pack as backup). The SD7T was configured so that it could easily switch over to the input of the second mic in the event of unforseen microphone issues during performance. The second rack was configured for the orchestra and the third was used for all system feeds. A fourth rack was also put to use (this time a Mini-Rack) for additional orchestra inputs. All four racks were connected to the SD7T via a redundant optical loop and the first two racks were connected via MADI to the SD8 which handled monitors. The on-board VNL video screen on the SD7T was connected to two cameras at Front of House covering the conductor and pianist. This

was utilised as a visual aid for communications between the operator, conductor and pianist. The show has been running sold out shows since May. The sound crew for Love Never Dies: Sound Designer: Mick Potter Associate Sound Designer: Paul Gatehouse Sound Supervisor: Shelly Lee Deputy Supervisor/System Engineer: David Greasley Head of Sound: Camden Young Deputy Head of Sound: Evan Drill Radio Mic Technician: Que Nguyen Radio Mic Swing: Jess Frost Radio mic Consultant: Alix Campbell www.grouptechnologies.com.au

The SD7T and EX-007 expansion were used as the front of house system connected together via Ethernet. For Love Never Dies, the EX-007 was utilised as a side car unit providing an additional 24 faders to the existing 52 on the SD7T (the EX-007 can also be configured as a remote control unit of the main console). At Front of House, local I\O as well as a DiGiCo Mini-Rack were configured with 4 AES Bi-directional cards. This rack handled all playback from automated SFX units as well as Outboard FX.

David Greasley setting up the SD7T and Camden Young behind the SD7T

INSTALL

ntertainment technology asia

China

D.A.S. Audio at China’s Dongpo Theatre Being one of the most important tourist cities in China, Hangzhou is famous for its natural scenery and its West Lake. This thriving city is also home to the Dongpo Theater, the flagship theatre of Gold Coast Culture Development Ltd., better known as the Gold Coast Company. As one of the top entertainment theatres in China, the Dongpo Theatre offers two performances nightly year ‘round - Night of West Lake for the tourists and the Gold Coast Entertainment Show for local citizens. Sound quality is a major consideration for all who perform at the Dongpo Theatre, which is considered a cultural and entertainment landmark. This is precisely why a new sound reinforcement system drawn from the catalog of Valencia, Spain –based D.A.S. Audio was recently placed into service. Ms. Jie Han, Gold Coast Company’s Project Manager, discussed the significance of the company’s efforts and the reasoning that led to deployment of the new D.A.S. Audio sound system. “As the largest theatre chain in China,” Ms. Han explained, “the Gold Coast Company operates over 50 theatre productions at its 14 theatres across China. The Gold Coast Entertainment Show is the most famous brand among the Gold Coast Company’s offerings and the production is presented all year in each of the company’s theatres. With a total audience volume of over 5 million people per year, this is a very important entertainment property, so it is crucial that our audiences be treated to the very best sound.”

With this objective in mind, Hangzhou Chuangda Stage Facilities, the authorised D.A.S. Audio dealer in Zhejiang Province, was contracted to design and install the theatre’s new sound system. With logistical assistance from D.A.S. Audio’s Hong Kong oﬃce, the Dongpo Theatre’s new sound system was designed to include loudspeakers from the Aero Series 2 and Artec product groups. The house mains consist of 16 D.A.S. Audio Aero 12A powered, 2-way, mid-high line array elements—flown 8 cabinets per side. An additional 4 Aero 12A loudspeakers are used for front fill. For low frequency support, 4 D.A.S. LX-218A powered subwoofers—each with two 18-inch transducers—are ground stacked, two cabinets per side in a left-right configuration. Twelve D.A.S. Audio Artec 28 2-way enclosures are provided for surround fills throughout the theatre. A D.A.S. Audio DSP-4080 4 In/8 Out signal processor handles loudspeaker management responsibilities.

of the stage, yet they provide outstanding audio performance and represent a good option for this type of venue. The diversity of performances and music played in this theatre match perfectly well with the variety of applications our line arrays are designed to support, so I am confident there is a good future for D.A.S. Audio.” Installation of the Dongpo Theatre’s new sound system was completed this past June and, since that time, Gold Coast Company management reports they are very pleased with the results. “D.A.S. Audio is a company that exhibits professionalism, honesty, and integrity,” notes Ms. Han. “We appreciate their enthusiastic service and support and, of course, the high quality sound of the company’s loudspeakers. I sincerely hope Gold Coast and D.A.S. Audio will establish a reliable partnership and, together, further develop the Chinese entertainment market.” www.dasaudio.com

Eduardo Lopez, D.A.S. Audio Hong Kong’s Operations Manager, commented on the recent installation. “The Performance Theatre industry in China is very active and relevant, and for D.A.S. Audio to establish a collaboration with one of the leading companies in this sector is a milestone achievement for our speaker systems in this kind of application. Our active, compact line arrays, which are easy to install and set-up, do not detract from the grand appearance

ntertainment technology asia

China

Gallery “Splendid Central Zhongyuan Fu Tower is situated in Zhengzhou, the provincial capital of Henan in China. The tower occupies 141 hectares with a construction area of 58,000 square metres and incurred a total investment amount of 836 million yuan. The height of the tower is 388 meters and is the tallest steel tower in the world. It is also considered to be a landmark of the province with integrated functions of a TV signal transmission tower, tourist attractions as well as an educational and cultural centre. The “Splendid Central Plains” Gallery, located on the third and fourth floors of the tower has been recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest panoramic painting in the world. This mammoth artwork is 18 meters high, 164 meters long and occupies 3012 square metres with a surface modeling area of 2,200 square metres.

INSTALL

Plains” selects FBT agreed that the FBT Verve oﬀered outstanding performance at a competitive price. When the sound level was properly set, the FBT Verve produced speech of high clarity, amazing presence and music of excellent transparency at high frequency. The midrange presentation was sweet and natural. Singers’ voices and musical instruments could be reproduced with a high degree of realism. The bass presentation was strong enough and with clear definition. Strong punch from drums could be reproduced perfectly which impressed the audience. After 3 years of construction, the 101-storey Zhongyuan Fu Tower was finally opened in February, 2011. The painting in the gallery provides a detailed portrayal of Henan’s historical heritage and natural scenery covering 18 cities. It presents the past, present and future of the Central China and is a grand spectacle full of creativity, innovation and sentiment. With sophisticated sound from the FBT Verve speakers, light and electronic techniques, the panorama’s figures and landscapes come to life with a dynamic movement that deeply impresses every visitor. The sound system used in the gallery of the panoramic

Although the gallery’s emphasis is on the visual eﬀect of the panoramic painting, the sound system’s quality has never been compromised. The management believes that the audio-visual eﬀect can only be optimised if a high quality audio system is used. To select the best sound system for the gallery, they sent specialists to similar installations in other parts of the world to study the sound systems used in those installations. After extensive research, a few top American and European brands were chosen for a second-round evaluation by sound experts. Eventually, the FBT Verve series of speakers was chosen for the project. The management of the gallery and most experts

FBT Verve speaker

painting consists of the following: • FBT Verve 152 - 2-way speaker x 26 pcs • FBT PSR 118S - 18” Sub-woofer x 6 pcs • FBT Verve 8M - Monitor speaker x 2 pcs • FBT Symbol 12000 Powered amplifier x 6 pcs • FBT Symbol 18000 - Powered amplifier x 2 pcs • FBT DLM26 - Speaker management processor x 4 pcs www.fbt.it

INSTALL

ntertainment technology asia

Singapore

Arup chooses NEXO for SOTA housed in touring flightcases, so they can be relocated easily and on their return, repatched easily to form the full system. There is the full complement of rigging accessories from NEXO so the GEO cabinets can be used outdoors for a concert, or in other venues as required.” Suan Wee confirms that the Concert Hall is available to external rental users. “This also helps SOTA’s revenue stream, as outside productions will look for a rider-friendly amplified system.”

SOTA’s 700-seat Concert Hall

An intrinsic part of the Singapore government’s strategy to focus on the arts is the School of The Arts (SOTA) – a specialist high school oﬀering the International Baccalaureate but dedicated to training in the visual and performing arts. Opened to students last year, it is the first of its kind in the nation. This July sees the oﬃcial inauguration of its prestigious new performance spaces; two theatres and a 700-seater Concert Hall, designed to the highest production standards by Arup. Arup’s acoustician Tan Suan Wee drew on his own live sound background when designing the sound reinforcement system for the elegant Concert Hall. Two systems were able to meet the precise specification, which demanded much in terms of scalability, portability, directional control, clarity, musicality and, of course, budget. For this high-profile concert venue, the choice came down to a NEXO GEO S12 line array design, with RS15 subs, PS8 front-fill cabinets, and power and processing from NXAMPs. SOTA is located at the gateway to Singapore’s arts and entertainment district. Designed by renowned architects WOHA, the school is unique in combining a high-density innercity school with a professional performing arts venue. Its diverse prospectus of arts disciplines puts a fantastic variety of musical styles through its premier venue, the Concert Hall. The repertoire extends from baroque and chamber music to choral, full orchestral performances and amplified concerts. Arup has built great acoustical flexibility into the space such as movable choir stalls that can track forward to allow the stage

size to be reduced, creating more intimate platform settings. There are also variable acoustic elements in the Hall that enable the reverberance to be reduced without losing clarity. “SOTA had very definite ideas about how the facilities of the school should perform,” Suan Wee said. “The acoustic challenge is to accommodate such a wide repertoire and we needed to design and specify a sound reinforcement solution that was itself versatile and complementary to the acoustics of the Concert Hall.” Arup has taken a scalable system approach by implementing modular sub-systems. In the Concert Hall, the NEXO GEO S12 loudspeakers are installed in a L/C/R configuration. Left and right hangs carry 4x GEO S1210 with a GEO S1230 downfill. They can be rigged onto the loudspeaker hoist on demand, or de-rigged, to serve in another part of the SOTA campus. A centre cluster of 3x GEO 1230s side-by-side can be interfaced with the L/R rig, or used standalone, when the production calls for a clean (no speakers on show) aesthetic in the Concert Hall. “With the central cluster flown above the acoustic canopy, this is a good solution for voice-only or subtly-amplified solo instruments, while minimising the visual footprint of the system,” says Suan Wee. “The NEXO GEO S12 cabinets oﬀer good directional control, handling speech as well as amplified music. From an acoustic perspective, we can achieve excellent clarity in a highly reverberant space.” As importantly for SOTA, the scalable design of GEO allows it to be taken apart and moved around quite easily. “The amplifiers for the left and right arrays, subwoofers and fills are

Specification: 4x GEO S1210 each side 1x GEO S1230 each side 3x GEO S1230 centre cluster 2x PS10 centre cluster out-rigs 4x RS15 sub bass 2x GEO S1230 stalls fill 5x PS8 front fill, integrated into stage lip 2x PS8 choir stalls NXAMPs 4x1 and 4x4 SOTA’s system was supplied through Yamaha Music (Asia), NEXO’s distributor in Singapore, where Lawrence Tan of the PA/CA Marketing Group oversaw the project. “We’ve had very good support from Yamaha,” said Suan Wee. “They’ve provided very good service, timely delivery and excellent planning. They’ve been backed up by the NEXO factory, with Nicolas Kirsch and Scott Mason dedicated to the SOTA project. The factory did its own modelling of our original design, a case of due diligence by a manufacturer that is quite rare! It’s good that both parties reached the same conclusions. “SOTA has already hosted the Singapore Arts Festival, which saw the system being used for different musical styles and both the venue staff and ourselves are very satisfied with the outcome. The project has particular requirements in terms of the sound reinforcement system and, in this situation, I believe it’s the most appropriate tool for the application,” Suan Wee added. “From a technical point-of-view, the system design has to cater for professional users but there is an equal focus on the learning process of the students themselves, who will be stepping through the different venues and their varying technical specifications, and they can learn a great deal from the design philosophy of the NEXO system,” Suan Wee concluded. www.nexo-sa.com

ntertainment technology asia

INSTALL

United Arab Emirates

Renkus-Heinz at the Dubai International Swim Stadium

Rising like an elegant blue wave from the sands of the Arabian Peninsula, the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Sports Complex is a stunningly futuristic building. Created by FaulknerBrowns Architects and ARUP, its centerpiece is the Dubai International Swim Stadium. The 18,000-seat aquatics complex made its international debut hosting the Fina World Short Course Swimming Championship. This impressive venue is divided into main pool and training pool areas and, suspended from the soaring arched roof, a long gantry carries a PA system that’s designed for both audio quality and cost efficiency in equal measure. Renkus-Heinz Middle East sales representative Norbert Bau explained, “The initial sound system design specified 40 large speakers hanging from the ceiling. We felt the budget could be used more effectively, so we submitted an alternative, via our consultant, Ricardo Castro at RCE Electroacustica, to convert the main competition hall system design to just four IC Live Duals and two IC Live singles.” “The VIP and VVIP stands are covered by two SG151 compact two-way loudspeakers to add a little bit of extra warmth to the sound in those areas. In effect, it means we are able to deliver even sound coverage to all 18,000 seats in the stadium with a main system of just eight loudspeakers,” Bau added. Facing the seating from the central roof gantry, the six loudspeaker locations, made up of a total of four dual IC Live arrays

and two single IC Live arrays, cover the entire main bowl. Exploiting IC Live’s multi-beam capability, each array is configured in BeamWare to provide three individual beam angles that cover the seating terraces from poolside to just under the roof. “When we first explored this idea it was quite exciting, as it was the first time we’d looked at covering such a huge space in this way. But the solution worked in EASE simulations, it met the budgetary requirements and gave the stadium owners an almost invisible system - and it’s performing really well. It’s great walking up and down the spectator terraces and hearing equal intelligibility and transparency everywhere,” Bau said.

The training pool hall has its own system, using two IC24s, while a total of 80 Iconyx loudspeakers cover the cafeteria and other public spaces, and just two Iconyx IC32 columns cover the entire Grand Foyer. Renkus-Heinz’s California factory, which regularly supplies weatherised versions of products to order, added specially developed, warrantied, chlorine-resistant coatings and treatment for the drivers. A Biamp-based CobraNet network and a secondary analog network, plus full integration with a secondary voice alarm system, ensure compliance with all international VA/PA safety standards. www.renkus-heinz.com

INSTALL

ntertainment technology asia

India

Martin Lighting Mystic at Kingdom of Dreams India’s Kingdom of Dreams is a first-of-its-kind entertainment destination near Delhi that presents Indian culture and unique Indian experiences to tourists in the form of Indianbased performing arts, art, crafts and cuisine.

Atomic 3000™ strobe eﬀects. Adding to the mystical atmosphere of “Zangoora” is groundhugging fog from Jem Glaciator X-Stream™ heavy foggers along with smoke eﬀects from Martin Magnum 2000™ smoke machines.

Spread across a large six-acre site at the apex of the golden triangle of Jaipur, Agra and Delhi, Kingdom of Dreams boasts venues of international standard, namely the Nautanki Mahal and Showshaa theatres, and a cultural and cuisine area known as Culture Gully.

The Martin lighting for Kingdom of Dreams is supported through Martin Professional’s Indian oﬃce based in Bangalore, an important local connection that Appelt found quite valuable.

Nautanki Mahal is an 848-seat auditorium with an ornate facade designed like a palace that serves as the park’s main entertainment space. Consulting lighting designer for the theatre is well-respected German light designer Jerry Appelt, who also designed the lighting for the theatre’s debut show, ‘Zangoora – the Gypsy Prince’, an extravagant cinematic and theatrical musical billed as ‘the biggest Bollywood musical show ever’. “Nautanki Mahal features the Zangoora show but also hosts other shows and events,” Jerry comments. “It’s really a very multi-purpose space and therefore needed a flexible house rig to cover the various events. It was very important to have a reliable system and I know the MAC series well. They are reliable workhorses and very flexible.” The theatre rig is made up of mostly MAC 2000 series fixtures - Martin MAC 2000 Wash XB™, MAC 2000 Wash™, MAC 2000 Profile™ and MAC 2000 Performance™ luminaires, plus

“Support is very important on a project like this and it is nice to have the local Martin support in India for testing, maintenance, demos, etc.,” Appelt stated. “When you need to show the automated luminaires against, for example, PAR cans, the MACs will just sell themselves, but you have to get the equipment on site so you can make the comparison! That’s a key step. You also have to convince the client what is behind the lighting as far as service and support, so it’s important to have a company like Martin behind you.” Jerry also completed the lighting design for the palatial outdoor facade of the theatre and chose Martin Exterior 1200™, Exterior 600™ and Inground 200™ luminaires. The Exterior series fixtures are mounted in groups and illuminate the entire façade in a uniform wash of saturated colours, typically in Indian orange, that give the structure a stunning night time look.

Additional Martin lighting at Kingdom of Dreams includes a line of Martin Tripix 1200™ outdoor LED strip lights mounted on an anterior wall to uplight Indian relief art, and additional Exterior 600s used to add color to the Culture Gully, a lavish air-conditioned indoor boulevard full of Indian culinary delights and shopping. Martin equipment used: Exterior 1200™ Exterior 600™ Inground 200™ Tripix 1200™ MUM™ MAC 2000 Wash XB™ MAC 2000 Wash™ MAC 2000 Performance™ Atomic 3000™ Jem Glaciator X-Stream™ Martin Magnum 2000™ www.martin.com

ntertainment technology asia

INSTALL

China

Gold Coast Nightclub boasts 161 QSC CMX amplifiers No fewer than 161 CMX Series amplifiers from QSC are providing the pulse for a multi-room nightclub on the southern tip of China. Chosen for their reliability, products from across the CMX range not only power the 400 square metres of dance floor but also 26 private rooms and 14 VIP rooms — the dynamic combination of powerful audio and brilliant stage lighting, installed by Shenzhen Duoyuan Technology Co. Ltd., providing a super-sensory stimulus for patrons of Gold Coast in Xuwen.

with an aﬀordable price. “CMX has inherited QSC’s legendary superior performance while increasing its application options, by oﬀering greater flexibility and perfect sound,” he stated.

Introduced last year, the new CMX series, an evolution of the award-winning RMX Series, uses a high-current toroidal transformer and filtering to ensure generous energy reserves allowing the amplifiers to eﬀortlessly handle high-level transients. The output sections feature rugged class AB and class H architecture depending on power level.

And their faith has certainly proved justified. Expected to provide stable operation over a long duty cycle, the QSC amplifiers have been performing flawlessly, a feature that filled the project investors with reassurance from the outset.

These are features certainly not lost on Wu Haitao, Product Manager at QSC’s Chinese distributor, PCI. He recognises that CMX was designed as an economical solution for system integrators, providing an irresistible combination of unmatched performance

Wu Haitao points out that it was the investors themselves who selected QSC CMX Series power amplifiers to drive the entire sound system, citing brand dependability, stable operation and excellent performance as key criteria in the decision making.

Situated in a buzzing nightclub district of the city, Gold Coast caters to party people of all ages in Guangdong Province, looking to experience the venue’s high sensory impact generated from luxury audio, vibrant video eﬀects and exaggerated décor. Since the new CMX Series was introduced, PCI say they have been enjoying increasing

success. “Although QSC’s profile has changed over the years, and the company’s diversification into advanced loudspeaker and processing design has quickly been recognised by the Chinese market, its amplifier products are still first choice for the majority of customers,” stated Wu Haitao. “This enables the QSC brand to maintain a very high market share.” www.qscaudio.com

INSTALL

ntertainment technology asia

Australia

Sydney’s Knox Grammar School picks K.M.E the set-up of the amps, K.M.E.’s Preset Editor and Wizard made the job very straight forward and easy. We thought that a small PANO system was a future-proofed solution providing the highest quality sound, an even sound dispersion and more than enough headroom to deal with anything that might be thrown at the system. Before making our recommendation to Knox Grammar, we met with the client, discussed their needs, analysed the acoustic characteristics of the room and took into account what the system would be used for.” www.kme-sound.com Professional Audio Technology Pty Ltd (PAT) has delivered another K.M.E. PANO Series line array public address system, this time to the new sports and events hall at Sydney’s prestigious Knox Grammar School. Various PA manufacturers were compared based on sound quality, manufacturing quality and price by contracted audio consultants with K.M.E. coming out on top. The new sports and events hall, which consists of three basketball courts, a spectator seating gallery and everything else a sporting venue could ask for, will be used for sporting events and can also double as a concert hall, comfortably holding up to 8001,000 spectators. The Front of House concert rig consists of Line Source Units QL 1215 powered by a DA 428 with 700 Watts per

channel and subs QLB 118 powered with a DA 230 amplifier with 1,500 Watts per channel. The K.M.E. amplifiers with multi channel functionality and DSP drive the entire system. Professional Audio Technology’s Technology Specialist Alan Liddelow was at the venue during the first sound check with the new K.M.E. system. “We are extremely satisfied with the performance and clarity of the new system and what’s equally important is that the client is very happy with their buying decision which is imperative. We recommended the PANO system to Knox Grammar because they wanted to have a solution which would not only satisfy the sound quality requirements, but was also small in size, but with enough SPL to provide the sound engineer with enough headroom during the events. During

Saudi Arabia

Allen & Heath selected for new Saudi Arabian university Allen & Heath mixing consoles have been installed throughout the new Princess Noura bint Abdul Rahman University for Women in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Supplied by CAP France BAT with the support of Allen & Heath distributor PAXT Pro Audio Engineering, the audio installation encompasses the University’s Convention Centre including a 2800 capacity theatre, a smaller 1400 capacity theatre, a rehearsal/ multi-purpose theatre and ten seminar rooms.

The iLive-T112 Control Surfaces located in PNU university

The University was oﬃcially opened by Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah less than three

years after laying the first foundation stone. The major building project covers 8 million square metres, and includes administration buildings, 13 faculties, a 700-bed student hospital, laboratories, research centres and a residential area including accommodation for students and staﬀ. The capacity of the university is around 26,000 students. The two larger theatres feature a total of four iDR-48 MixRacks and four iLive-T112 Control Surfaces to manage FOH and monitors, whilst the Black Box rehearsal theatre contains an iDR-32 MixRack with iLive-T80 Control Surface. Additionally, ZED-14 analogue stereo USB mixers are installed in each of the seminar rooms to mix wireless, goose-neck mics and programme audio sources. www.allen-heath.com

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INSTALL

Qatar

IC Live delivers for two Qatar soccer stadiums Two soccer stadiums in Qatar have each been equipped with a uniquely designed RenkusHeinz IC Live digitally beam steerable PA system, configured to deliver music, safety announcements and match commentary in the largely roofless venues, which are owned by the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC). The multi-purpose stadium in Al-Rayyan, Qatar, home to the Al-Rayyan and Al-Kharitiyath sports clubs, and the near-identical Al-Gharafa stadium, seat around 25,000 each. Both are largely open-air apart from VIP grandstands, and in a country where summertime temperatures can hit 40°C/104°F, the term “bleacher” means exactly what it says. They are the latest in a series of high profile Renkus-Heinz beam steering installations in the Middle East, two other recent prestigious projects being the Qatar Royal Mosque and the Dubai Swim Stadium. Consultant Fredrik Setterberg of Swedish audio specialists Soliflex was called in to finetune the design and, he explains, this has turned out to be another world first for the versatile IC Live system, which was installed in record time by local contractor Al-Tamas. “It was a very fast job from start to finish about a month from the order being received. We worked with Al-Tamas to equip two stadiums with 16 IC Live arrays and two subwoofers in each stadium, each connected via RHAON (Renkus-Heinz Audio Operations Network). We originally planned to have the loudspeakers on the edge of the pitch shooting upwards towards the audience, but

the QOC asked for a re-design, partly because of visibility issues. The main challenge was to massively improve intelligibility across the seating areas without interfering with sightlines - and without a roof to hang speakers from,” said Setterberg. “We solved it by mounting the IC Live columns on custom-built downward-angled mounting poles on the stadium’s outer wall behind the spectators, with the cabinets upside-down to get the high frequency drivers as close to the audience as possible. A combination of the mechanical angling and IC Live’s beam steering eﬀectively aims the sound directly across the spectators’ heads. The solution worked out really well. We have very good STI values, and the SPL is more than enough to cover the whole arena - even with all the crowd noise,” he added. Where the original PA had employed 42 loudspeakers around the arena, the new solution with IC Live sees just 16 units covering the whole stadium. The CobraNet system has an analog backup for redundancy and the system is designed to allow future expansion of its functionality to include voice alarm capability. “It’s only a PA for now, although we have recommended that we can integrate it with the voice alarm in the future, because the IC Live is considerably more powerful than the existing VA loudspeakers,” Setterberg explained. Sound sources are mostly music, in the shape of national anthems, and spoken commentaries, announcing the names of goal scorers and the recipients of yellow cards,

delivered by an announcer from a media booth in the grandstand using a wireless microphone. A 360 Systems hard-disk-based playout system provides the musical content, with a Yamaha mixer integrating the various sound sources. A MediaMatrix NION NX handles distribution to the system’s 11 zones, which can be switched on and oﬀ independently, while all the speaker processing is performed within RHAON. “The big advantage with RHAON is that you don’t need an expensive DSP processor, because the only function it performs is the matrix zone routing,” said Setterberg. “We use RHAON for EQ and beam steering and everything else, and networking is all on fibre optic with Cat-5 up to the loudspeakers, which are weatherised and are fitted with ruggedised Ethernet switches that will work at up to 85°C/185°F without fan cooling.” www.renkus-heinz.com

INSTALL

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United Arab Emirates

Custom ‘SPECKS’ for the ‘Pullman’ Dubai Mall of the Emirates The ‘Pullman’ Dubai Mall of the Emirates is Accor’s upscale hotel brand which is tailored toward providing high quality services and facilities for both business and leisure clientele. Strategically located in the heart of New Dubai, the Pullman rises proudly above the bustling metropolis and showcases a seamless blend of contemporary French elegance with Middle Eastern hospitality. Given Dubai’s many examples of elaborate architectural treatments for fine hotels, it was paramount that the first Pullman Hotel in the Middle East made a clear and definitive statement about its positioning amongst such considerable competition and thus, a striking lighting design was devised. The main architectural lighting aspect is the glass feature wall at the core of the building. This design was prepared by NORR Group Consultants and Light Touch PLD.

The design called for a matrix of ultra bright LED pixels which were to be mounted in the curved facade of the feature wall. Illumination Physics created a custom version of the popular ‘SPECK’ - a compact high powered LED fixture designed for insertion into Curtain Wall panels. This ‘Pullman’ Speck had to incorporate special qualities in order to properly function in the harsh Middle Eastern climate. It was designed to withstand non-operating temperatures of 90 degrees Celsius and operating temperatures of 70 degrees Celsius, making the Pullman SPECK extremely robust. Six Rebel LEDs were used (RGB), driven at 350 milliamps. The SPECK series of products incorporate domed lenses that provide high visibility even from shallow viewing angles. Ninety pieces were used spread over 18 storeys. Illumination Physics provided all of the control equipment and drivers. The

display is controlled using Illumination Physics X-Soft, a graphic interface PCbased product. The contract was managed by Illumination Physics’ agent in the UAE, Cinmar Lighting.

Equipment: 90 x illumination Physics custom specks 18 x illumination Physics HP led drivers 3 x DD4 dmx splitters 1 x Xnet8 ethernet/DMX converter 1 x PC with illumination Physics X-soft software www.illuminationphysics.com

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INSTALL

Singapore

Synergy AVL lights up Merlion Park powerful and bright moving beams up to the sky to complete its external lighting eﬀects. For illumination inside the Merlion’s eyes and mouth, Synergy installed Colorbeam LML-36 and CP-50 colour changer fixtures equipped with long life LED lamp technology to replace the previous light fittings which would often break down.

Sentosa, the popular island resort in Singapore, attracts millions of local and foreign visitors every year. They come to enjoy its long sandy beaches, golf courses, 5-star resort hotels and the famous Universal Studios theme park. Every visitor to the island is also familiar with its most famous resident and visitor attraction - The Merlion - a 37-metre high statue formed in the image of the fabled half-lion and halffish guardian of Singapore. The view from the crown of the Merlion is a magnificent 360 degree panorama of Sentosa and Singapore’s southern shores. Sentosa Development Group, which manages the Sentosa Merlion Park, had decided to enhance the Merlion Park’s environment with the use of creative outdoor lighting. Synergy AVL Pte Ltd, a Singapore-based audiovisual and lighting solutions provider, was invited to propose a lighting solution for the island’s statuesque icon. Synergy’s project team, led by senior project engineer Chip Chong, conducted a series of site surveys before deciding on which types of indoor and outdoor luminaires were best suited to fulfil the management’s requirements. As a start, Chip proposed to adapt outdoor wireless technology using W-DMX WhiteBox products made by Wireless Solution Sweden. The wireless set-up uses one W-DMX WhiteBox transmitter and five WhiteBox receiver units. Not only does the use of wireless technology provide a cleaner look, it also did not disrupt the daily operations of the park and avoided serious damage from unnecessary cabling work. Synergy installed

a PC-based lighting control running on the Daslight Virtual Controller DMX512 software which allows the park’s AV team more freedom to programme and operate all DMX lighting luminaires installed in the park. Selected members of the AV team were given basic training on the Daslight system by Synergy AVL’s experienced lighting programmer.

One of the five W-DMX Whitebox receivers for the high-ground searchlights

With the different (indoor and outdoor) areas and themes in the park, Synergy was very careful in choosing the right luminaire to deliver the correct mood required for the different features in the park. With its special water wave effect, ACME LED Wave units were installed along the bridge walkway from Sentosa Resort to the park to make the journey feel more like ‘walking on water’. Ten IP65 rated D.T.S. Delta 10 F RGBW LED colour changer wash lights were positioned around the Merlion to highlight the main exterior body of the Merlion. Additionally, six units of Novalight High-Ground 2000W moving-yoke fixtures are positioned in a line at the rear of the Merlion and programmed to shoot its

D.T.S. Delta 10F LED washlights face towards the 37-meter high Merlion

Synergy AVL also installed a SpinetiX HMP-100 Media Player to display 2D animated graphic content from a Sanyo PLC XM100 5000 ANSI lumens projector which was encased in a Tempest Lighting Blizzard 6550 enclosure (using DEC3 control technology to maintain optimum projector and lamp life) to cover its centre area. Chong found it easy to add or edit content on the SpinetiX system. “We can upload the content from the wireless router which is installed in the Tempest dome. This allows us wireless access to the SpinetiX box from the PC.” The new lighting and visual solution in Sentosa Merlion Park now oﬀers a multi-visual environment and creates a more complete experience for the visitors. Response from visitors about the park’s new ambience has been good and this reinforces the reputation of Synergy AVL for delivering high quality solution designs. www.synergyavl.com www.colorbeam.com www.daslight.com www.spinetix.com www.wirelessdmx.com

INSTALL

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New Zealand

Leading New Zealand school installs iLive culminating in an intensive performing arts fortnight, which includes two variety concerts, a rock concert, dance showcase and house music competitions. “We have had a variety of A&H desks over the years and we loved our GL2800 but the complexities of the concerts we stage and the scale of our annual major production means an upgrade to digital was advantageous,” explained St Peter’s School AV manager, Bruce Richards. “We chose iLive because A&H products have always been reliable and I like the ‘analogue style’ interface, rather than menus within menus.”

The iLive-T112 Control Surface installed at FOH in St. Peter’s School’s auditorium

St. Peter’s School in Cambridge, New Zealand, recently installed an Allen & Heath iLive digital mixing system in its 600-capacity auditorium. Comprising an iDR-32 MixRack with iLive-T112 Control Surface, the system is an upgrade from the incumbent analogue mixer.

As one of New Zealand’s leading independent secondary schools, St. Peter’s is set in 100 acres of land and includes facilities such as an equestrian park and golf academy. The auditorium hosts various dance, drama and music events throughout the academic year,

The auditorium’s audio system includes Martin F12 speakers, Lab.gruppen amps and XTA processors. The school also has two compact analogue mixers, a 16-channel GL2200 and ZED-14 USB mixer, for use in the adjoining performing arts studios. www.allen-heath.com

India

Modern Tannoy solutions for historic Indian theatre When renovating a historic building, an installer has to ensure that any loudspeaker solution they propose maintains the aesthetic qualities of the venue. The Gaitey Theatre in Himachal Pradesh, India, has a unique look that is worth preserving. This remarkable piece of Victorian architecture was conceived by legendry architect Henry Irwin and symbolises the grandeur of the British colonial period. Since its inception in the year 1887, many eminent theatre personalities like Rudyard Kipling, Baden Powel, K.L. Sehgal, Prithviraj Kapoor, Balraj Sahni and Manohar Singh have taken to the stage of this theatre. The government of Himachal Pradesh recently restored the 124-year-old historical landmark which seats 320 people over two floors and whose main purpose is still for drama and other classical and folk culture activities. However, after the restoration, it was clear that the existing sound system wasn’t meeting the demands of this busy theatre, and that a new, state-of-the-art solution was required. The design team of audio-visual specialist M/S Godrej was called upon to recommend the best solution for this important and historic

venue. They, in turn, consulted Tannoy. Mr Haider from Tannoy proposed a state-ofthe-art solution that utilised digital acoustic beam-steering technology. The ideal product for this kind of installation was Tannoy’s award-winning QFlex steerable array system because it did not compromise the aesthetics of the theatre. “We proposed this solution because we knew the quality of Tannoy’s loudspeakers and how eﬀective QFlex can be in terms of intelligibility. I’m glad to say that the Gaitley Theatre and its performers find it ideal for their performances

as it gives a uniform coverage in the auditorium,” said Mr. Haider. Two QFlex 24s, two VS 18DR subs and two V8 sound reinforcement loudspeakers were specified and installed to provide complete full range coverage and in-fill where required. The installed audio system was completed by the addition of a Biamp Nexia for signal routing and Yamaha mixing consoles. QSC amplifiers powered the Tannoy V8s and VS subs. www.tannoy.com/pro

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LIVE

Jands Vista M1 survives Immersion Vivid Sydney is a festival of light, music and ideas that includes large-scale light installations and projections through to music performances and the holding of conferences and seminars on ideas and creativity. First held in 2009, Vivid Sydney has become Sydney’s major winter festival which lights up diﬀerent parts of the city after 6pm, including the Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay and The Rocks. From light “graﬃti” on the Museum of Contemporary Art to live fire shows, more than 200,000 visitors experienced the festival this year. One of the most popular of the light sculptures that was part of the Festival was ‘Immersion’ designed by Martin Bevz and Kathryn Clifton. Consisting of LED tubes in a semi-circle, the sculpture invited the viewer to ‘play’ with them by reflecting their movement through the installation via a live video relay of still and dynamic images. The tubes are pixel mapped to form what is essentially a very low-res 18 x 2m video screen. Bevz used the Jands Vista M1 to control the Catalyst media server for a number of reasons including its size. “Not requiring a full-sized console to fit in a 12RU rack for three weeks - three very wet

weeks – was a major plus!” he said. “Also, having physical faders allowed for easy programming and playback testing. The Jands Vista M1 works on a Mac alongside the Catalyst software and that reduces hardware requirements. I really like the visual timeline based playback and the easy to use date/time events so an operator was not required to power up and down each day.” Bevz further commented that the Vista was rock solid throughout the duration of the festival and consequently it’s the console that he would always prefer for any semi permanent installations.

“It’s visual, easy to use and Jands have a great support network,” he added. “As a final touch to the installation we programmed a start up sequence featuring a countdown timer and static which slotted in with the rest of the programming. It’s important to be able to work visually with media servers as they are inherently visual instruments – you need to be able to ‘see’ what the desk is telling the server in order to enable seamless crossfades and visual eﬀects.” www.jandsvista.com

LIVE

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Jo Elliott with the ETC Element

ETC Element has its Turn in the Spotlight Two icons of Australian theatre, Nancye Hayes and Reg Livermore have combined their muchlauded talents in Turns, a “pantomime with a twist” – where no matter what, the show must simply go on. Produced by Christine Dunstan and with lighting designed by Trudy Dalgleish, the show has been touring both cities and regional theatres for several months. And everywhere the show has gone so has a vital tour member – the ETC Element console. ETC’s Element console was designed expressly for modest rigs and maximum hands-on fader control. Aﬀordable and easy to use, Element packs in the fundamentals of lighting control. The lighting rig for Turns consists of purely analogue light fixtures which can vary in model from venue to venue and so lighting operator and technical manager Jo Elliot is relieved to have one constant with her in the form of the Element console. “At each theatre I only have to update cues and sometimes change fade times to suit the dimmers in the venue,” said Jo. “I found that the Element adjusts quite easily to accommodate the diﬀerent dimmers I’ve come across so it’s been really quite good.” Jo particularly liked having 40 submasters at her fingertips so she could easily grab

diﬀerent subs if there was an emergency. “They are also very good for plotting because I will often plot the show without anyone standing in the light and so they give me the ability to adjust levels very quickly,” she said. “The spreadsheet view in blind plotting makes life very easy as it is simple to quickly scroll through. We have a couple of channels that I have to absolutely make sure are in certain cues because if they are not, it’s a total show stopper and it’s really easy in blind to check that they haven’t accidently been knocked out whilst I was plotting.” Jo also discovered that the Element console is easy to patch and she likes that she can patch with either a channel number or dimmer address as her first number. “I find that adding and changing cue times is very straightforward,” she added. “We have a little chase and adding it to a cue or submaster

is simple. In fact, it’s an easy console to figure out quickly, very user-friendly. “The Element’s small size makes it great for touring. It can be set up next to the sound console FOH and as I’m also Technical Manager, that is very handy as I can hear and see the show from that position. Quite often the venue may not have a riggers remote for me to use so I can pick up the console and set it up front of stage and access the rig from there.” www.jands.com.au www.etcconnect.com

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LIVE

Meyer Sound enriches Great Mountains Music Festival patented VRAS™ algorithms responsible for Constellation’s stunningly natural acoustical qualities. Thirty tiny cardioid microphones captured the hall’s acoustic ambience and after VRAS processing, the resulting early reflections and late reverberations were reproduced by 38 MM-4XP miniature selfpowered loudspeakers and nine M1D-Sub subwoofers. Although the system focused on stage acoustics, a significant benefit was also realised throughout most seating areas of the small hall. “I had not heard the hall acoustics before,” admits cellist Lluís Claret, “but for me it was a very nice experience. The acoustics were just perfect.”

Concluding its eighth season this summer, Korea’s heralded Great Mountains Music Festival and School (GMMFS) received added inspiration in 2011 not only from its new artistic directors, famed violinist Kyung-Wha Chung and cellist Myung-Wha Chung, but also from sonic enrichment by Meyer Sound’s Constellation® acoustic system. “The bottom line for a successful music festival is a concert hall with great sound,” said Artistic Director Kyung Wha-Chung in an article in Korea’s Joongang Sunday. The Great Mountains Music Festival brought musicians and conductors from around the world to the idyllic Alpensia Resort for three weeks of concerts and master classes. The principal venue was the resort’s intimate 600-seat Alpensia Concert Hall. The Hall’s

physical acoustics when occupied were found to be inadequate for the festival’s concert repertoire that encompassed everything from a suite for solo cello to a Mozart requiem with full orchestra and chorus. Both musicians and audiences appreciated the added acoustical depth and richness provided by Constellation. “I’d performed at the Alpensia hall in February and there was a great improvement in the acoustics since then,” observes cellist Sangmin Park. “The hall sounded very dry in the cello and bass section back then, but it no longer seems that way.” Installed temporarily for the festival, the Constellation system was driven by the Meyer Sound D-Mitri® digital audio platform with eight D-Mitri digital audio processors at its core, including three DVRAS processors hosting the

Clarinetist Evan Solomon was aware of the change. “I performed on stage last year as well, and this year I felt a bit more reverberation. It felt very natural, not artificial, so it was more comfortable to perform on stage.” Installation of Constellation was facilitated by Incova Ltd. of Seoul with coordination by Managing Director Eugine Yune. Throughout the extensive program of concerts, classes, and seminars at GMMFS in 2011, the two celebrated artistic directors were joined by the Great Mountains Music Festival Orchestra and the Seoul Motet Choir along with 47 internationally renowned artist-instructors that included Tchaikovsky Competition winner Karine Georgian and Kevin Kenner, whose latest CD was named Editor’s Choice by Gramophone. www.meyersound.com

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MILOS for the Makkah Awards for Excellence The largest MILOS trussing installation in the Middle East to date was built for a special presentation ceremony at the 2011 Makkah Awards for Excellence, staged in the Hilton Hall of the Jeddah Hilton Hotel, Makkah Province, Saudi Arabia. MILOS trussing and staging products from Bright Star were used to build a spectacular stage set for the event, including a 50 metre diameter circular truss that circled the perimeter of the entire presentation space, which was also used to hang a 360 degree projection screen and an 18-metre diameter round stage. The installation was designed by Hattan Madani, who was also Bright Star’s site and project manager for the event. Bright Star is a leading technical and event production company based in Jeddah, headed by Ibrahim Madani, and with a large stock of MILOS products. The Makkah Award winners were a selection of businessmen and women, scholars and economists from Makkah Province, all of whom have contributed to and played important roles in the field of social responsibility. They received a certificate of appreciation from Makkah’s Governor, Prince Khaled Al-Faisal. The 18-metre diameter circular stage for the event was extended on two sides, making it a total of 29 metres in length and 15 metres deep, with seating in front extending to

almost 270 degrees around the space. The whole presentation area was surrounded by the 50 metre circular truss, which was supported by 12 ground supported towers. The projection screen was attached to this and the truss trimmed at 8.5 metres high the highest possible position with the ceiling height of the room. MILOS QuickTruss M390L product was used to construct the circle. This is a large format product line, with the “L” denoting the heavy duty version. It is extremely robust, so ideal for large spans, and quick to erect using conical connectors, pins and R-clips, oﬀering substantial weight loading capabilities coupled with great aesthetics. The towers were from MILOS’ MT2 range, which is designed for larger events and demanding high-end applications requiring the maximum loading and free-span characteristics. The standard MT2 Towers are built from MILOS’ QuickTruss M520 and can be extended to a maximum height of 12 metres. The system is renowned for its stability. The circular truss was joined to the MT2 towers via sleeve blocks with custom adaptor plates. The stage was built from a combination of standard MILOS XStages S8W products and a selection of bespoke components specially fabricated to form the rounded elements specified by the client. This is also very quick to assemble. The stage decks have fine-tuned adjustable legs to ensure perfect levelling.

MILOS xStages S8 is an extremely versatile heavy-duty platform system that enables the construction of large stages in most imaginable shapes and configurations! The site build took Bright Star’s team of riggers plus local crew 4 days to complete, project managed by Hattan Madani. The company also has its own reputation for excellence, and won the contract to supply the event due to its ability to deliver the complete project including all the other technical elements - lighting, sound, AV and the projection screen - in a highly competitive package. Bright Star has invested in MILOS in recent years for the brand’s innate reliability and the breadth and dynamics of the product range, as well as for the company’s ability to design and deliver any custom pieces required for a specific project quickly and eﬃciently. www.milosgroup.com

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Showtec at the World Netball Championships The 2011 World Netball Championships were held in Singapore from 3–10 July. Sixteen nations contested the week-long tournament. The gold medal match was closely fought between defending champions Australia and world number one, New Zealand. The match was tied at the end of four quarters of regular time. Australia eventually scored the winning goal in the dying seconds of extra time, defeating New Zealand 58–57 to claim their tenth World Championship title. All 48 matches were held at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. For the World Netball Championships, the venue contained two adjacent playing courts and an overall seating capacity of 8,000. The opening ceremony began with Australia’s team captain running into the arena with the trophy the Australians won in 2007. Next, the oﬃcial mascot entered on a trishaw and then the 16 competing teams. The organisers also arranged a surprise birthday cake for Guest-of-Honour President S R Nathan, who celebrated his 87th birthday. The programme for the opening ceremony reflected the changes the Republic has undergone over the years. The ceremony’s creative director, Mark Richmond, put together a 90-minute video that warmly welcomed all 16 participating nations to Singapore and also showcased the city’s

energy and its aspirations especially in netball. The story followed the ups and downs in the journey of a teenager named Julia who dreams of being the player who makes the winning shot for the world championship. The sound and lighting for the entire event was handled by Showtec Communications Pte Ltd, a leader in the technical rental industry in the Asia Pacific region. Showtec had prior experience working with Mark Richmond on some projects. As this was a high profile event, Showtec worked closely with Richmond to put together a system of lighting and sound that would deliver the best performance for the programme’s needs.

Comprehensive lighting equipment

Due to the demands of the opening ceremony’s programme, Showtec Communications employed a comprehensive list of lighting equipment consisting of 24 DTS Lighting XR 1200 Wash Moving Head Projectors, which were used for colour balancing for television and eﬀects lighting, and 18 Clay Paky Alpha Spot HPE 1500 Moving Head Spotlights. According to Showtec Lighting Designer David Creigh, custom gobos of the national flags of each of the participating nations and the logos of the World Netball Federation and the World Netball Championships were loaded into the Clay Paky Alpha Spots and projected on to one end of the stadium during the opening ceremony. As the teams entered the stadium, the gobos of their national flags would follow the teams and were positioned in front of the teams when they lined up. “The Clay Paky’s were the brightest lights we had in our inventory with the best photometric qualities and lensing to make sure that the flags were absolutely clear and focused all the time while the DTS washes were the best for colour balancing and are quite reliable. That’s why I chose that equipment for the show because they would satisfy the production requirements,” Creigh said.

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Since the tournament was going to be televised to various countries around the world, supplemental lighting had to be brought in to ensure that the television audiences could see all the action. This included 18 DTS Lighting Arc 1200 Architectural Colour Changers which were mounted on the floor. Creigh felt that the light being projected down on to the court from the top of the stadium was not heavy enough and he needed floor lights otherwise the stadium would have a dark background on wide camera shots. The DTS Arc 1200s not only provided more lower illumination but also added fullness to the camera pictures and Creigh was very pleased with the results. A further two Zenith Lighting Lycian M2 2.5K Followspots were added as supplemental lighting in order to pick up specific talent. In order to coordinate all the lighting fixtures for the event, Creigh used a Road Hog Full Boar Lighting Console using the Hog 3PC software from High End Systems.

A clean and pure sound system

The organisers were very particular about the sound system used for the event. They specified that they did not want a concert-type sound system with lots of clusters hanging around the stadium. They wanted a very clean system with pure sound that enabled the audience to hear announcements clearly. Choong Chip Weng, the Project Manager for the event, chose the Coda LA8 Line Array System for the event because it fulfilled all the requirements stipulated by the organisers. It produced good sound yet the audience was able to hear announcements clearly when the stadium became loud and noisy. A total of six flown clusters consisting each of 4 LA8 speakers and an LA8 subwoofer were utilised. The Coda LA8 System was supported by CAMCO V6 amplifiers.

In addition, the sound system needed to be very flexible because the playing area throughout the tournament would alter but the audience’s seating positions were fixed. Showtec installed 8 L-Acoustics V-DOSC subwoofers on the ground with Lab. gruppen amplifiers. The opening ceremony included singing and dancing and the V-DOSC subwoofers would enable the audience to hear the beat of the music clearly. Furthermore, the V-DOSC subwoofers were all arranged in a neutral position so that they would not interfere with the netball matches. The mixer chosen to control the sound system was the Yamaha M7CL 48-channel digital mixer, described by Choong as a ‘workhorse’ because it had all the necessary features built into it. When it came to selecting the microphones, Choong decided on Sennheiser long-range wireless microphones since all the umpires and referees for the event had

A jubilant Australian team receive the Championship trophy

to carry microphones. In addition, there were two handheld microphones for the emcees. The event was a success and the feedback from the event organisers was very positive with regards to the sound and lighting. Commented Choong, “They were so happy that they are asking us if we would like to do the next World Netball Championship in Sydney!” www.showtecgroup.com www.dts-lighting.it www.claypaky.it www.zenithlighting.com www.codaaudio.com www.camcoaudio.com www.l-acoustics.com www.sennheiser.com www.yamahaproaudio.com www.highend.com www.wnc2011.com

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LIVE

Martin Audio’s MLA has a Field Day One weekend in Hackney’s Victoria Park presented Martin Audio’s Multicellular Loudspeaker Array (MLA) in three separate festivals.

subs and seven rear facing in a combined broadside/cardioid array. These were delay curved to provide a horizontal dispersion of 110° to cover the entire field.

Promoted by Eat Your Own Ears, Underage, Field Day and Apple Cart, the event saw Capital Sound Hire return to the Park with the same system they had used for the LED Festival a few weeks earlier — working alongside Loud Sound, the event management company, and LarMac LIVE, the production company.

Martin Audio W8LC Compact Line Array elements provided outfills and a delay position 60 metres back, while two further hangs were flown on the Friday night in the 6,000 capacity second tent, which became the main showcase arena for Underage.

This increasingly popular festival site is bordered on one side by trees, a canal and high-tariﬀ residential properties. Environmental acoustics experts Vanguardia needed to be satisfied that the sound would not bleed beyond the site perimeter and Cap’s crew chief Nick Foots, supported by Martin Audio’s Development Manager Phil Anthony, set presets that would comfortably ensure this, while being able to retain a threshold of 98dB-100dB (Leq) measured over a 15 minute period. Although the main stage was not in use for Underage, the Friday event, the awardwinning MLA performed spectacularly for the star-studded Saturday (Field Day) and Sunday (Apple Cart) events. Emulating the rig design for the LED event, the main hangs of 16 x MLA and 1 x MLD downfill enclosures per side were complemented by 15 front facing MLX

As a result, Cap Sound’s general manager, Paul Timmins, said his company had learnt a lot more about the system’s performance outside during their summer evaluation. “Taking it into Victoria Park has been extremely useful and we have been able to give audiences a different experience. Event manager Dan Craig said the MLA sounded fantastic, and that the situation with both the off-site noise and levels at FOH were exactly as they wanted,” remarked Timmins. “Most productions working there in the past have struggled to meet offsite criteria.” LarMac LIVE’s Ian Greenway and Nick Foots also registered their satisfaction. Said Phil Anthony, “A number of MLA filter optimisations were done to cover from 65-100 metres so we had settings that would allow Nick to dial in where he wanted coverage to stop. We ended up with a coverage depth of

about 85m in conjunction with exceptionally consistent SPL and frequency response.” The Martin Audio man observed that he could have set an even sharper cut-oﬀ at the perimeter had it been needed and also that the MLA performed way beyond its IP rating. “While the arrays were waiting to be rigged, some of the cabinets’ amplifier modules filled with water during a cloudburst but we emptied it out and the system fired up straight away.” Nick Foots, meanwhile spent much of his time babysitting at FOH and inducting sound engineers eager to try out the system which has become the talk of the industry. “Many were curious to hear it for the first time,” he said. “Vanguardia seemed really satisfied with the system,” Foots summarised. “It’s just what you want from a PA — happy engineers, a really stable system and a great sound.” Paul Timmins reflected, “We have used MLA on the appropriate projects this summer, both inside and out, including Whitesnake, and have received some excellent feedback so we’re extremely happy.” www.martin-audio.com www.loudtechinc.com

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Ocean Symphony was a tribute to the symphonic nature of water using 20 tonnes of water to create a stunning canvas of lights. The audience witnessed acrobatic ballerinas twirling mid-air in bird cages, leaping out of a giant water bowl, and suspended gracefully as sea creatures on life-sized hooks and coral branches. The Venetian Festival transported the audience to the splendor and magic 17th Century Venice. This act involved elaborate props like an inflatable moon and mysterious actors clad in Baroque-era costumes and whimsical masks weaving through the crowd.

DTS lights up Studio Festi During the 2011 Singapore Grand Prix, the Singapore F1 Grand Prix organisation presented its audience with a top-level artistic event by the iconic Italian production maestro Studio Festi at the Marina Bay floating platform. The show was an ensemble famous

throughout the world for its extraordinary choreographies and scenic installations in large open-air spaces, with artists dancing suspended in midair. Two specially commissioned acts called Ocean Symphony and Venetian Festival were featured this year.

One hundred D.T.S. moving head projectors were used to light the Studio Festi performance. They consisted of 20 XR3000 Beam, 40 XR3000 Spot CMY and 40 XR1200 Wash. The lighting system was supplied by Showtec Communications Pte Ltd. www.studiofesti.it www.showtecgroup.com www.dts-lighting.it

Fine Art at the 26th Summer Universiade Opening Ceremony Universiades are World Games for students hosted by the Federation Internationale du Sport Universitaire (FISU). They are held every two years with a Winter and Summer edition. Universiades are the second largest multi-sports events in the world after the Summer Olympics in terms of the number of participants. This year’s Summer Universiade was held at the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen. Held from 12-23 August, the event attracted nearly 12,000 athletes and oﬃcials from 152 countries. The various sports were held across 41 stadiums in Shenzhen. The opening ceremony was held on 12 August at the 20,000 seat Shenzhen Bay Sports Centre, also known as the Spring Cocoon by the locals due to its design. The grand gala event had an atmosphere of youth and

passion. Taking centre-stage was a 100m high by 20m wide LED screen wall which was used to great eﬀect with dynamic presentations. The LED wall was supported by 1,100 units of moving head stage lights from Fine Art for this event providing a brilliant visual experience. With the theme of the Games focusing on Green lifestyle many of the materials used for the stage were recycled materials thus ensuring sustainability and environmental awareness. The stadium’s capacity at 20,000 was also planned so that it could be used after the games for diﬀerent types of events thus keeping to the sustainability theme. As part of the opening ceremony, the “@” symbol found in keyboards was created within the stage design and lighted up with Fine II moving heads to symbolise the event’s

connection with the youth who use the character frequently in their emails, social media websites and other internet activities. The ceremony saw a variety of cultural performances with Fine Art lighting fixtures working seamlessly with the performers and the LED wall to create an evening of colour and excitement. After the athletes had entered the stadium, President Hu Jin Tao pronounced the games open. Hundreds of Fine 1500 and 2500 moving head lights changed their colours on cue to conclude the festive opening ceremony. www.fineart-light.com

Nationtheater Mannheim, Germany

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