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PALM EXPO INDIA
Special Edition
Amaazia A Truly Ama‘zing’ Experience
1522-The Pub: A New Watering Hole And A New Sound Interview with Markus Jahnel,COO, Adam Hall What Are The Differences Between Analog And Digital Interfaces?
THE LEO FAMILY TRUE SOUND IN LINE ARRAYS.
The LEO Family provides power and clarity for nearly every application, from intimate performance spaces to the world’s largest outdoor festivals. From small to midsize to large-scale, this family of line arrays has you covered.
Now introducing LINA & 750-LFC Very Compact Linear Line Array System
CONTENTS
ETA PALM EXPO INDIA SPECIAL EDITION
04 First Words 06 Nexo Appoints New Distributor In India 06 New beyerdynamic Wireless System: TG 500 09 Yamaha Music India Private Limited Showcases Solutions Across Market Segments 09 d&b Apps, ArrayCalc And Range Of Speakers On Show 10 Dataton Ups The Ante With New Audio And Video-over-IP Features In WATCHOUT 11 Roshi Invests In dLive For TV Show 14 Meyer Sound LEO Family Delivers Extraordinary Performance With Scalable Solutions
26 18 Harman Live Arena To Unfold An Eclectic Mix of Genres
15 Check Out The Prolyte Verto Truss
19 HARMAN Solutions At PALM EXPO INDIA 2017
17 QSC K.2 Series: The ‘Next Standard’ in Powered Loudspeakers
22 Sun Infonet To Showcase Leading Solutions 24 Rivera International At The PALM EXPO INDIA 2017 26 Virasat-e-Khalsa Comes Alive With DTS And Sholite 28 1522, The Pub: A New Watering Hole And A New Sound 30 Amaazia – A Truly Ama‘zing’ Experience 36 What Are The Differences Between Analog And Digital Interfaces?
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40 Bose Professional’s ShowMatch DeltaQ Offers True Scalability 42 Interview with Markus Jahnel,COO, Adam Hall
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FIRST WORDS India Entertains… Technology Industry ‘Entertainment Industry in India is coming of age’- is what people have been saying for some time now. As a latest and biggest exemplification of the notion, some have been pointing to the first Global Citizen Festival that was held recently on MMRDA Grounds in Mumbai where the largest contingency of L-Acoustics speakers were swung in to reach out to some 80,000-plus large audiences. That’s not just a solitary case; there have been others as well they say. The Vibrant Gujarat event – perhaps, the most prideful of the events in the Eastern State – this year witnessed a slew of unique technology features. To pitch in their stake too, there have been a spurt of Amusement and Theme Parks in the country of late contributing to a new genre of technology (s)takes. There have been a good number of cases that include places of worship like the famed Somnath Temple, Golden Temple, and so much so that the Bodh Gaya; tourism places like Borra Caves near Vizag in Andhra – and the hugely fancied Indian Premier League T20 Crickt – just to name a few, where some incredible formats of lighting and projection mapping and theming are explored. In an industry set-up whose PPP (purchasing power parity) is taken to be racing in the upswing, with people almost ‘competing in ingenuity to invest’ this should not come up a surprise. What should surprise, instead is the information flow, and the accessibility of technology. From connoisseurs to commoners, the trend has been to explore newer options of variety. While a very ordinary Dandiya organizer in Pune or Baroda wanting a tech-beat to make their show more exciting, can have half-a-dozen solutions upfront through a mobile App, a well-informed Promoter can have the whole environment simulated on his plasma or laptop with a host of services in a jiffy. This was unthinkable a few years ago. Amidst all this gloating stuff- one concern persists. It is largely, and unmanageably unorganized. No standards of technology per se; very often no safety standards too. The best hope is that India, while it entertains technology, can only get better as it travels in time. Ram Bhavanashi Editor, India And Middle East ram@spinworkz.com
Thomas Richard Prakasam Publisher/Editorial Director thomas@spinworkz.com
Julie Tan Admin & Circulation admin@spinworkz.com
Jimmy Chin Design And Production jimmy@spinworkz.com
Natalie Chew Writer natalie@spinworkz.com
Michael Mitchell MEDIA REP IN NORTH AMERICA Broadcast Media International Tel: +1 631 673 0072 mjmitchell@broadcast-media.tv
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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 This issue of Entertainment Technology Asia is a special edition. 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. Please be informed that products and company names mentioned in this publication may be protected with tradenames, trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. Our non inclusion of such symbols is not an indication of us not recognising the copyright but rather to have a common look across our articles. Misuse of tradenames, trademarks or registered trademarks is strictly prohibited. It is the obligation of our readers to check if company names and products are protected with tradenames, trademarks or registered trademarks.
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NEXO Appoints New Distributor In India NEXO is pleased to announce the appointment of YAMAHA MUSIC INDIA Pvt. Ltd. (YMIN) as NEXO’s official distributor in India. Established in 2008 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Yamaha Corporation, Yamaha Music India Professional Audio department provides the Indian market with the full line of Yamaha integrated professional audio products offering complete systems solutions for broadcast, sound reinforcement/installed sound, touring, commercial recording, and post production. By adding the NEXO line of high-end loudspeakers and amplifiers to its portfolio, Yamaha Music India aims to offer the Indian professional audio market a superior solution-based approach to sound reinforcement, supplemented by a high degree of support, education and training to the professional audio market of India. According to Harisha GN, Business Head of the PA department, Yamaha Music India, “Because they have been present in India for so many years, the synergy of the two brands enjoy
a very high reputation. Yamaha keeps on investing heavily in India. Our priority with NEXO is to leverage the possibilities between the product ranges of NEXO and Yamaha under one roof to make life much easier for the customer in the midand high-end sectors of the market.” "Yamaha Music India has a wideranging distribution infrastructure, a network of consultants and an extensive customer base; all of these will now have access to NEXO systems, matched by comprehensive in-house and field product training,” said Denis Baudier, International Sales Director for NEXO. "With this great partnership, Yamaha will help us effectively meet the growing demand for high-quality sound reinforcement solutions in India. Our two companies share the same philosophy, and we aim to offer the Indian professional audio market something over and above ‘black boxes’, complementing technical solutions with a high degree of support, education and training”. http://in.yamaha.com/
New beyerdynamic Wireless System: TG 500 Flexible companion for a great performance! With its five sets, the wireless system TG 500 is an all-rounder. Whether for performances on smaller stages, theater productions or speeches, the various sets always ensure perfect performance. While the vocal set with the dynamic TG V50 handheld transmitter is ideally suited for singing, the vocal set with the TG V56 condenser handheld transmitter offers an ideal solution for presentations. An unobtrusive positioning of the microphone in lectures makes the TG L58 lavalier microphone in the presenter set possible. The perfect companion for theater productions is the headworn set with the TG H34 headset microphone. The instrument set with included WA-CGI instrumental cable is ideal for professional miking of guitar and bass. With the included rack mount kit, the 9.5” single receiver can be easily installed in a rack and also offers the possibility to mount 2 receivers in one rack unit. For all
users who want to use multiple channels, a dual receiver with integrated antenna splitter is available. Visit beyerdynamic at Hall 1, Booth I51 to check out the TG500 amongst other solutions. www.beyerdynamic.com
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Yamaha Music India Private Limited Showcases Solutions Across Market Segments Yamaha Music India Private Limited, established in March 2008, is part of the Yamaha Corporation worldwide group of companies and offers full line of Yamaha musical instruments, pro-audio and audio visual equipment to Indian market. It began its operations in October 2008 with its headquarters at Gurgaon, Haryana. Yamaha’s corporate philosophies are embedded in its customer-oriented management and operations – providing excellence in its products and services; continuous efforts to expand its existing market and create new markets; enhancement of research and development on a long range perspective; commitment to care for end users through providing even better after-sales service; pursuit of further globalization of Yamaha’s business; and fostering positive growth through diversification. The Yamaha Commercial Audio and Professional Audio divisions are known as solution providers for the sound industry across the world. Their line-up include many world-standard mixer models, signal processors employing high level DSP technology, power upgrades based on world-class energyefficient drive technology, and an extensive range of speakers suitable for everything from production to professional audio. Yamaha Music India Private Limited Professional Audio Department provides product solutions to live SR, installed sound, broadcast and music production/post production market in India.
NEXO Products like STM, GEO- S, M10, M6 series will support to focus the Mid to High level Rental market.
Broadcast and Studio Broadcast applications demand a great deal of the equipment used in terms of features, adaptability, sound, and reliability. That is why one finds Yamaha professional sound gear in broadcast studios and vehicles around the world. Whether it is CL/QL series consoles, DM/0 series consoles, or DME processors at the heart of flexible audio networks, broadcasters know they can rely on Yamaha to go to air with maximum efficiency and reliability. A design policy that emphasizes the highest possible fidelity to the original source plus the ability to accurately reveal the subtlest sonic and spatial changes in a mix makes MSP Series and HS Series of Yamaha studio monitors ideal choices for the broadcast environment.
Yamaha Music India has taken a step forward to start NEXO product lineup Business in India. With expansion of its footfall all over India, we have started NEXO products distribution from 1st April 2017. The NEXO products are designed to cater Mid to High Level Live SR and Installed market requirements. The synergy effect of both the brands will enjoy a very high reputation.
MARKET SEGMENTS Live SR One of the reasons Yamaha pro-audio gear enjoys an enviable reputation in the live sound field is the company’s extensive background and know-how in musical instrument production. It takes more than just technology to make great sound, and that is why the Yamaha PM5D, M7CL, LS9, CL, QL series and newly launched Rivage PM10 and TF Series digital consoles have become industry standards. Yamaha is in touch with the needs of the industry, and has the experience as well as the foresight to provide the right solutions at the right time.
Installed Sound Solutions and products offer significant improvements in convenience as well as safety. These are products that offer a new experience as well as total satisfaction for everyone involved in design and implementation of installed sound systems. MTX Series matrix processors, XMV Series multichannel power amplifiers, and VXC/VXS/MA/PA Series offer a wide range of products for any solutions.
ETA PALM EXPO INDIA SPECIAL EDITION
NEXO Products like ID, PS, M6, M10 series are the additional tools to target the Mid to High level Installation markets.
NEXO M10
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Music Production/Post Production Yamaha offers a range of powerful tools for enhanced post productivity, including the Nuage Advanced Production System that integrates Yamaha digital mixer and Steinberg DAW technology, high-resolution head amplifiers, VCM effects, acclaimed DM/0 series digital mixing consoles with advanced monitoring capabilities, and the MSP Studio and HS series reference monitor speakers. All of the above offer intuitive operation and unrivaled sonic quality that can help crystallize concepts into superior sound. With Steinberg line up of products, the strength to cater Small to High level studio requirements had increased. The hardware includes audio interfaces UR series, Controllers CC121 and synchronizers Nuendo SyncStation and software part accommodate Cubase, Nuendo, Wavelab, VST Instruments and VST Effects. Visit YAMAHA to see the solutions on showcase. YAMAHA is at Halls 2B and 2C. www.music.yamaha.com
d&b Apps, ArrayCalc And Range Of Speakers On Show corporate speech reinforcement, all the way up to large scale stadium shows. Within the d&b family, these three siblings seamlessly combine line and point source technologies, acoustically and visually, to ensure the highest speed of deployment, efficiency and consistency. Cooperatively they share the same standard amplifier platform, cabling solutions and three-point rigging procedure and design. The Series are also further enhanced by the d&b Workflow and latest suite of enabling technologies: ArrayCalc simulation software, including the optional ArrayProcessing optimization function; NoizCalc immission prediction software, and R1 Remote control software. Consistently delivering on their collective promise.
Visitors to PALM India will get the opportunity to explore the ArrayCalc Viewer app. This new mobile interface provides all key information for positioning and flying a d&b loudspeaker system in a quick and easy format, including all relevant rigging, setup and system details. Staff will be on hand to demonstrate the app. Also demonstrated will be the new R1 Array verification tool. Available in the latest version of R1, the verification tool works by identifying the position of a loudspeaker in an array, then comparing its order within the array to the one in ArrayCalc. Together the J-Series, Y-Series and V-Series make full use of the new software solutions. The three Series deliver scalable, versatile and flexible methods to effectively tackle any mobile or permanent professional audio task, from the smallest
Meanwhile, see what makes the high performance V7P and V10P a ‘new class of point source’ – with exceptional performance in the mid range this single box solution is ideal whenever sightlines, weight or amplifier channels rule out small line arrays. Visit Ansata at Hall 1, Booth F39 to check out the various d&b audiotechnik solutions. www.dbaudio.com
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Dataton Ups The Ante With New Audio And Video-over-IP Features In WATCHOUT
Dataton in action in India
With InfoComm 2017 just around the corner, Swedish show control experts Dataton have announced a clutch of key features to be added to their WATCHOUT production and playback system – and flagged for new hardware on the horizon. The company also recently acquired InfoComm certification for its popular training academy and has invested in local coverage in the SAARC countries with the appointment of Mumbai-based Ashok Sharma as regional sales representative.
What’s new in WATCHOUT For leading event companies, show producers and system integrators, Dataton WATCHOUT is the first choice for the creation and playback of multimedia shows on multiple displays. The system is renowned for its flexibility and is equally at home providing breath-taking visuals in corporate gigs, broadcast applications, mapping buildings, theatre backdrops or largescale live events. WATCHOUT has earned both industry accolades and a dedicated following – not least in India and South East Asia – due to its no-fuss approach to handling different media formats, geometry correction and projection mapping toolset, reliable performance and usability. New WATCHOUT version 6.2, launched in conjunction with InfoComm in Orlando, USA, boosts audio and live production workflow with support for NDI and ASIO.
Event Name: Celebrating Punjab Day Venue : Amritsar, Punjab Event Company: Wizcraft international Entertainment Pvt Ltd. Vendor: MSS World, New Delhi Projectionist: Pawan Vishwakarma
WATCHOUT enables video-over-IP through support of the open NDI protocol developed by NewTek. Widely acclaimed in the industry, NDI (Network Device Interface) allows multiple video streams on a shared connection, resulting in high quality, low latency, frame-accurate video over local area networks. The key benefits of NDI support are reduced hardware costs, faster deployment time and easily-accessible high-quality video in shows. For producers working with complex and creative sound scenarios, WATCHOUT offers 24-channel audio support through the ASIO (Audio Stream Input/Output) protocol. Using ASIO – a multi-channel audio transfer protocol developed by Steinberg – WATCHOUT gains exclusive control over the sound device, enabling low-latency access of up to 24 audio channels.
“WATCHOUT producers place high demands on media quality and synchronization,” Trond Solvold, Sales Director, Dataton AB, said. “These new features empower users, bypassing the technical and physical limitations of standard broadcast infrastructure, and paving the way for new working methods and creativity.” WATCHPAX
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Expanded hardware range Dataton already offers plug-and-play media servers, ranging from compact media players WATCHPAX 2 and WATCHPAX 4 (4 x 4K outputs) to WATCHMAX rack servers, all with built-in WATCHOUT licenses. At the InfoComm show, the company will reveal a new ultra-compact model, aimed at corporate installs, museums, video walls and high-end retail applications. The new model is scheduled to ship later in 2017.
Industry-certified training Dataton has actively developed its WATCHOUT Academy training concept over the last five years, travelling to some twenty countries on five continents. In recognition of that commitment to quality education, the company is now an official InfoComm International Renewal Unit (RU) Provider. The new classification means more than 10,000 professionals who hold InfoComm’s Certified Technology Specialist credentials can earn certification renewal units by completing Dataton’s WATCHOUT Academy training program. Training sessions are already scheduled for Europe, Brazil, USA, China, UAE and in the pipeline for India.
Regional sales rep appointed for SAARC Highlighting the importance of India and SAARC countries, Dataton has appointed a dedicated regional sales representative, Ashok Sharma, to develop and support the market, working closely with local partners, Dataton users, and the Dataton team in Sweden. “We are looking forward to working with Ashok to provide local coverage as we continue to strengthen our position in India and the SAARC region,” commented Trond Solvold, Dataton. “India is a creative dynamo in the region and Ashok with his broad experience and knowledge will be an invaluable resource for our customers.”
Ashok Sharma
Ashok Sharma has a proven track record in the pro-AV industry including key positions with manufacturers projectiondesign, Digital Projection and Gefen. As the SAARC Dataton Sales Representative, Mr Sharma and his team will be responsible for promoting the full Dataton range in the region including preand post-sales, training, and customer service. “Dataton’s visual experience solutions are highly regarded for their versatility and user-friendly approach,” said Ashok Sharma. “I look forward to working with the team in Sweden to further expand reach while developing closer relationships with existing and new partners.” Ashok joins Dataton’s existing sales network in the ET Asia readership area which includes Dataton Premium Partners Modern Stage, India; AVT in South East Asia, and ProLab LLC for UAE and surrounding territory.
Contact: Dataton.com Ashok Sharma: India@Dataton.com
Roshni Invests In dLive For TV Show Mumbai-based PA company, Roshni Audiomatics, recently invested in an Allen & Heath dLive S Class mixing system, comprising a S7000 Surface and DM64 Rack, in preparation for the live broadcast of popular singing show, Rising Star, on the Colors TV Channel. Established for over 20 years, Roshni Audiomatics’ client base encompasses all of the major channels and production houses in the region. The dLive system was purchased from Delhi-based distributor, Sun Infonet, after the TV Channel’s sound engineer, Mahesh Amberkar, had tried and tested it. “I am really happy with dLive as it fulfils all of the requirements needed for any live telecast show. The Surface is user friendly,
and I am very impressed with the extremely low latency and the EQ, which is superb,” says Mahesh Amberkar. The Rising Star show generates 108 inputs and 60 outputs, including the band, presenters, judging panel and contestants. dLive manages the floor monitoring, and provides the broadcast feed. “dLive is a game changer as it has ample headroom, is easy to operate, especially with its dual-screen capability, and has tremendous capacity and flexibility, due to its many networking options,” concludes Roshni Audiomatics’ owner, Prakash Ahuja. www.allen-heath.com
THE ART OF SCULPTING WATER - A JAQUAR BRAND EXPERIENCE Modern Stage Services Projects were contracted to bring to life a concept, The Art of Sculpting Water, as an experience centre for the Jaquar Group. The challenge for MSS Projects was to make this into a multi-sensorial experience centre within 10,000 square feet by beautifully integrating art, architecture, and energy to aesthetically exaggerate the understanding, evolution, expression and connection between the Brand and their Visitors. Jaquar as a brand sculpts formless water beautifully in the form of its products; the language of the World of Jaquar therefore was defined by the moods stimulated by water in its various forms – as defined by The Rasa Theory. Each zone within the space, designed with lights, technology, audio and visual and artistic physical displays, were categorized as Shringar, Hasya, Shanta, Veer, Bhakti and Adbhuth, with their own surrealistic mood, story, experience, and atmosphere. The zones offer a look at the soul of the brand, its history, its growth, philosophy, product creation methodology and more. Within individual zones, one can experience myriad expressions of being; of being inside a larger than life dew drop; of waking towards a bright light at the end of a tunnel, comparable to wading through waves of water; of reflecting the calm and serene atmosphere of a sea bed with the fragrance of moist air; and of floating dreamily under water. Each zone, a step towards understanding the depth of processes and the perfection and purity of the Jaquar brands through detailed views of their products, while emphasizing how the group has been a game changer in Indian bath fittings industry. The technologies and equipment used by MSS Projects to technically deliver the above concept, are listed below. All the Projectors were Christie and the Image Management and Display Control was provided by Dataton Products, namely Watchout Servers and Watchpax. An amalgamation of Auto Powering of the AV systems with Light and Synchronized Audio, Automatic Video and Images, Infrared Sensors, Motion Sensors, Interactive Floor Projections, Wide Curved Wall Projections, Dome Wall Planetarium Projections, Fog Screen Projections with Lighting, Rotational Effects, Trivision Panels, Holographic Cubes, 360 Projections, Touch Tables, Video Wall And Dynamic Switching has resulted in a stunning atmospheric automated experience, using Show Controls and an I-pad as the remote interface.
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Meyer Sound LEO Family Delivers Extraordinary Performance With Scalable Solutions The Meyer Sound LEO Family comprises a complete range of line array solutions for the world’s most demanding music and speech reinforcement applications. With the recent addition the LINA very compact line array loudspeaker and its companion 750-LFC low frequency control unit, a LEO Family solution now can be scaled to any venue from an intimate jazz café to a heavy metal concert in a football stadium. When paired with the new Galaxy network platform, the newest loudspeaker processor of the venerable Galileo series, a selfpowered LEO Family system will deliver effortless, transparent and precisely controlled coverage with extremely low distortion – even at maximum levels.
LEO: The Flagship Launched five years ago, the LEO linear reinforcement system revolutionized the way audio professionals approach the challenge of amplifying large-scale musical events. Typical large line arrays will have a “sweet spot”: a narrow level range where the system achieves its optimum tonal balance. A LEO Family system behaves differently, maintaining a linear response across all output levels. The frequency balance remains predictable from the beginning to end, regardless of changing dynamics in the performance. As a result, LEO allows the entire audience – whether in the front row or 100 meters distant – to enjoy the same optimum audio experience. Each LINA and 750-LFC instrument is perceived simultaneously and discretely, without one coloring the sound of another. If the FOH engineer wishes to emulate the power compression of other systems, he may do so using console plug-in effects. The linearity of a LEO system makes it inherently more adaptable to any musical style, from classical to hard rock, and from pop to EDM. Well-known artist currently or recently touring with LEO systems include Metallica, Ed Sheeran and Celine Dion. LEO systems power major rock festivals, including the legendary Isle of Wight festival and San Francisco’s Outside Lands. Also, America’s largest football stadiums rely on LEO systems to assure clarity and impact for more than 100,000 raucous fans.
LYON: Flexible Design for Multiple Uses The somewhat smaller LYON line array loudspeaker shares the same linear response characteristics as its larger sibling,
making it a perfect companion element in for delays and outfill arrays in larger LEO-based systems. As with all LEO Family loudspeakers, LYON is a two-way system, which translates into fewer interactions among drivers for greater phase coherence in the critical midrange frequencies when compared to threeor four-way systems. LYON has been used in supplemental arrays with major LEO tours, and it serves as the main element in tours by artists such as 21 Pilots and The Lumineers. LYON systems also are popular for larger theaters and auditoriums, such as New York’s Radio City Music Hall, the Choctaw Casino Resort in Oklahoma, and twin performing arts centers in Calgary and Edmonton, Canada.
LEOPARD and LINA: Compact Cousins
The LEOPARD compact line array system applies innovative engineering to bring the virtues of linear reproduction down to a size suited to theaters, corporate AV, houses of worship and regional touring. LEOPARD’s exceptional power-to-size/weight ratio allows system designers to deliver higher levels with lower distortion while still keeping sight lines open and staying under weight limits. LEOPARD also incorporates new on-board Native Mode processing, with default low-mid compensation for typical configurations for faster set-up. LEOPARD has received rave reviews from leading sound designers for Broadway and West End productions, with systems deployed for shows such as Pierre, Natasha and the Great Comet of 1812 in New York and Motown: The Musical in London. LEOPARD also is perfect for large hotel ballrooms, such as the fabled International Ballroom of the Beverly Hilton, site of notable Hollywood film industry events. The newest member of the family is the LINA a very compact line array. It shares the same structural footprint as the prior MINA loudspeaker, but contains new drivers, an updated amplifier and improved processing to seamlessly integrate with the LEO Family. LINA can be flown, ground-stacked or pole-mounted in conjunction with its companion 750-LFC low frequency control element.
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GALAXY: A New Benchmark in Processing GALAXY is the first Meyer Sound loudspeaker processor to be fully networkable, with multiple units sharing 24-bit/96 kHz multi-channel audio via an AVB network. Maximum input count has been increased from six to eight for easier implementation of 7.1 systems, and a new generation of FPGA-based processing with 96 kHz floating point resolution delivers increased dynamic range, a lower noise floor, and super-low latency of 0.6ms. Other features new to GALAXY include a delay matrix, easier integration with Crestron and other thirdparty controllers, a word clock input on the AES3 version, and improved equalization tools. GALAXY processing precisely tailors response to the room, assuring optimum performance from any LEO Family system. www.meyersound.com
Check Out The Prolyte Verto Truss
The Verto truss is a new revolutionary system, making truss connection fast, silent and safe. The Verto truss brings a totally new perspective on truss assembly and is described as a game changer in our industry. This truss can greatly benefit the daily working practice for technicians, its toolless connection is almost completely silent, thereby greatly adding to safety on the work floor. Tested general sound levels are around 55dB, where a conical truss system generates a sound level of 80dB during assembly. Furthermore, it reduces the assembly and disassembly time. Tested general assembly times are up to 5 times faster than those for truss with conical coupling systems and 10 times faster than any bolted truss.
Rotating coupling system The Verto truss is based on a new principle of truss connection, where the sections are joined by a rotating coupler system. This system has great advantages over existing systems. The name Verto is derived from Latin, meaning to turn or to turn around and that is exactly how this coupler works. A simple flick of your wrist will connect the truss sections. The Verto truss is designed as an additional system, for those circumstances where its specific characteristics come into play, like the silent connection and reduced assembly time. Its structure resembles that of the standard H30V truss. Visit Modern Stage Service at Hall 5, Booth D17 to see the Prolyte Verto Truss. www.prolyte.com
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K.2 Series: The ‘Next Standard’ In Powered Loudspeakers “How do you take the world’s most beloved powered loudspeaker series and make it better?” That was the task at hand for our engineering team, and no small task at that. Introduced in 2009 as “The New Standard” in loudspeakers, the K Series redefined a category and customer expectations for a powered loudspeaker. It had more power, higher fidelity, more wide-ranging functionality and a far more professional appearance than anything that had come before. It was also from QSC, so it had to live up to QSC’s reputation for products manufactured to the highest levels of quality, prove itself to be rugged and reliable in daily performance, and serve its owners for a very long time - delivering unmatched, professional value. With sales of a million K Family units since the K Series’ introduction, any next-generation product would have to leap over a very high bar. So, some of the questions at QSC were, “Could we make a better product?”, “What would it need to be?” and even, “Should we do it at all?” After all, customers love the original product, so why change? As it turns out, the company’s culture of innovation was too powerful of a motivator to just sit on the sidelines. Our experience delivering all those loudspeakers to customers around the world could guide us forward. Advances in DSP, power technology and loudspeaker design could enable new levels of performance. Our company had experienced strong growth and our capabilities across the organization had expanded and developed significantly in all disciplines - we could execute at a higher level. We had seven years of customer feedback from a broad range of pro audio applications to advise us. The time for action was at hand. We were ready. So, with the wind at our backs and our lofty goal ahead, we set out to create the ‘Next Standard’ in powered loudspeakers. Throughout development, we had one overarching guiding principle - If it isn’t clearly better, it’s not better. Fast-forward to today and the new K.2 Series. Delivering on the vision and promise of a real next-generation product, K.2 Series is indeed, in every way, better. To start, each model is equipped with a 2000-watt power module (2x the power of the original) carefully matched to high-performance woofers and 1.4-inch titanium compression drivers – all meticulously managed by advanced DSP processing. Like K Series, DMT (Directivity-Matched Transition) ensures smooth coverage across the entire listening area. One listen and you will agree that the result is nothing short of inspiring. The K.2 Series provides its operators with a library of incredibly useful, real-world preset contours for common applications such as Stage Monitor, Dance Music, Musical Instrument Amplification, Hand-held Microphone and more, while also offering storable Scenes to recall user-configurable settings such as input type, delay, EQ, cross-over and selected contour.
K.2 Series may have been our most challenging engineering project ever. -Ray van Straten, Sr. Director Marketing - QSC Professional Each model, including the K8.2, can be operated as either main PA or as a floor monitor. Just think about that for a moment… a 2000 Watt 8-inch stage monitor. I’m buying a pair of these for my keyboard rig. Each model can also be flown, wall- or truss-mounted, or placed on a speaker pole, either straight-firing or with 7.5-degree down-tilt. Rugged, light-weight and sporting an elegant new design including a fabric-backed steel grille, the K.2 Series also features a global 6-Year Warranty with product registration. We hope you look forward to enjoying your new K.2 Series as much as we have enjoyed creating them for you. www.qsc.com
K.2 Series Key Features: • Best in class audio performance • 2000 Watt Class-D amplifier module • Factory Presets and savable/recallable Scenes for commonly-used applications such as Stage Monitor, Dance Music, Musical Instrument Amplification, Handheld Microphone and more • Multi-function digital display for control and selection of loudspeaker functions including cross-over, EQ, delay and frequency contours • Intrinsic Correction™ tuning and loudspeaker management • DMT™ (Directivity Matched Transition) design provides excellent power response and consistent performance across the listening area (75-, 90-, 105-degree, K12.2, K10.2, K8.2) • Refined, professional appearance looks great in any application • Rugged ABS enclosure for long life and lasting durability • Deployment in either main PA or floor monitor position • Dual pole cup mounts (straight-firing and 7.5 degree down-tilt) • M10 fittings for flown applications • Optional security panel prevents unauthorized tampering of controls • 6-Year Warranty with product registration
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Harman Live Arena To Unfold An Eclectic Mix of Genres at the HLA stage will include: The Ska Vengers, Viveick Rajagopalan, Anand Bhaskar Collective, Sanah Moidutty, The Kush Upadhyay Group, and Paradigm Shift. Tejas Menon and Voctronica make a re-entry to the line up with some of the all time favorites and legendary musicians like Sivamani, Ranjit Barot, and Niladari Kumar.
Harman Live Arena, the biggest IP of Harman Professional India enters in its 8th year with Palm expo 2017. Conducted at Bombay exhibition center, Mumbai every year, HLA is the only stage in India which showcases the most advanced technology of an end – to – end LIVE solution by Harman. It is a three day music festival which brings together the top of the line/ newly launched products & solutions from all the Harman brands in the LIVE domain, culminating in an audio-visual feast for the senses. Every year there is a new product feature at the Live Arena and this year we proudly announce the unveiling of the latest from JBL VTX series A12, the Next Generation Dual 12" Line Array Loudspeaker systems. VTX A12 is designed from scratch to address the unique challenges of rental companies, FOH engineers and tour sound production crews. It isn’t just a superior line array—it’s a completely new way to approach tour sound. The PA and subs will be powered by Crown IT12000HD and IT4X3500, The AKG digital wireless microphone system along IVM 4500 in-ear monitoring system will be used on the stage along with D7 and D5 Dynamic vocal microphones. Lighting effects will be created by Martin Professional’s Mac Quantum washes, Mac Aura XB, Mac Quantum Profile, Atomic 3000 LED and VDO Sceptron linear outdoor rated LED video fixtures. The command of the FOH will be in the hands of Soundcraft Vi7000 (launched at Palm expo 2016) & Vi3000 digital live mixing consoles along with Martin Professional M6 Lighting Controller. The Harman endorsees who will be debuting at the Live Arena will include 'Liquid Bass Project' by Sherrin Varghese and a young energetic band from True School of Music 'Aankh Micholi'. TSM will also be featuring its 'All Stars' band which features the foreign faculty at the school. Other first timers
“As Harman Live Arena enters its 8th year of existence, we welcome the visitors to experience the extravaganza of sound and Lighting as created all these years. This year the audience will witness an eclectic mix of genres that will unfold from near classical music, to folk, to beat-boxing, to punk with a mix of bollywood thrown in. This year Harman Live Arena will also the latest and the loudest box ever produced by JBL – The Sivamani VTX A12 line array system. The system delivers exceptionally accurate sound even at very high SPL. We will also have the most advanced digital live mixing console by Soundcraft Vi7000 at the FOH. The Live Arena content will be showcased at the Harman booth using 4K video transmission over LAN by AMX SVSi system”, said Prashant Govindan, Senior Director at Harman Professional India. This year Harman Live Arena will be spread in a 800 sq. mtr enclosed space which will give an ultimate experience to your senses with great sound, visually ecstatic lighting and a dream team of artists performing live every day. Get immersed in an experience like never before at the Harman Live Arena on 1, 2, 3 June from 12pm – 7pm at Hall 6. www.harmanpro.in
Niladri Kumar
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HARMAN Solutions At PALM EXPO INDIA AKG C7: Studio Quality Sound For Worryfree Lead And Backing Vocals The AKG C7 reference handheld condenser microphone delivers premium studio-quality condenser sound and hassle-free operation on any stage. With pristine clarity and sparkling high end, the C7 allows lead and background vocals to shine through. And thanks to specially engineered circuitry and customdesigned components, C7 prevents feedback, spill, handling noise, and pop noise from interfering with your performance. No matter where you’re performing, C7 delivers premium, worry-free vocal reproduction so you can focus on what really matters. - Custom-tuned supercardioid condenser capsule with high SPL handling - Worry-free performance with multilayer pop noise filtering system - Mechano-pneumatic shock absorber suspension eliminates handling noise - Open-space capsule technology for reduced feedback and spill - Rugged zinc alloy housing and spring steel grill - 24-karat gold-plated capsule
AKG C636: New Master Reference Condenser Vocal Microphone Step on stage with a studio legend. The new AKG C636 is the legendary C535 updated for today’s rigorous live performance requirements. Offering the pure studio sound you’ve grown to love in a worry-free durable housing, you can now focus on your vocal performance—not on the performance of your microphone. - Studio-quality sound: By keeping the C535 sound untouched, the C636 captures your sound unfiltered and uncompressed like no other mic on the market. - Uniform cardioid pattern that eliminates feedback - Proprietary double shock suspension system that eliminates handling noise - Multilayer pop noise protection that eliminates plosives - 24-carat gold-plated capsule for robust stage reliability
AKG K872: The New Benchmark For Performance Unprecedented accuracy for studio production and live sound engineering. The culmination of almost 70 years of expertise, the AKG K872 master reference closed-back headphones provide unprecedented accuracy and comfort in production and live sound engineering environments. Custom 53mm drivers with 1.5 Tesla magnet systems deliver exceptional headroom for precise imaging, deep low frequencies and extended dynamic range. The optimized closed-back design ensures excellent isolation during tracking, mixing and mastering sessions. The open-mesh headband and 3D-shaped slow-retention foam earcups create a personalized fit for remarkable comfort during long sessions. Created with meticulous attention to every design element and component, the K872 is the new benchmark for headphone performance. - Optimized closed-back design with 53mm transducers for greatest-in-class headroom and dynamic range - 1.5 Tesla magnet system for exceptionally accurate imaging and authoritative low-frequency performance - Two-layer voice coil for superior extended 5 Hz – 54 kHz frequency range - Open-mesh headband for remarkable comfort and light weight - 3D-shaped slow-retention ear pads for personalized fit - Sound-sealing pad profile for excellent isolation - Slim, durable, removable cable with precision LEMO connector - Robust design incorporating precision metal parts. - Demanding test regimen ensures reliable operation in the studio and on the road
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JBL EON ONE PRO: All-In-One, Rechargeable, PA System Get that world-renowned JBL Professional sound, anytime, anywhere with the new JBL EON ONE PRO, the first, portable, battery-powered, lineararray PA system in its class. With a lighter, more compact design and up to six hours of play time, you can now take your performances to places you’ve only dreamed of. Take Your Performance To New Places The EON ONE PRO empowers you to give your fans incredible live experiences, wherever your inspiration takes you—on a mountain or the beach, subway or streetside—even where there's no power outlet.
JBL VTX A12: Next Generation Dual 12" Line Array Loudspeaker JBL VTX A12 is a complete tour sound solution for mid- to large-size touring applications and high-end fixed installations. VTX A12 was designed from scratch to address the unique challenges of rental companies, FOH engineers and tour sound production crews. Next-generation JBL transducer technology and a high-frequency waveguide design deliver unmatched performance, sensitivity and coverage. A patented JBL rigging mechanism and redesigned suspension system streamline deployment and setup. And refinements to the physical design maximize reliability and versatility, while minimizing size and dramatically reducing weight. VTX A12 isn’t just a superior line array—it’s a completely new way to approach tour sound. - New and improved JBL transducers for the best output per weight - Innovative HF section integrates the phasing plug and waveguide for high sensitivity and linearity even at high output levels - Redesigned Radiation Boundary Integrator® (RBI) for reduced horn edge diffraction, improved LF sensitivity, lower distortion, and 90-degree coverage down to 250 Hz - Next Generation LF section, including industry-defining Differential Drive woofers, with a dual magnet, dual voice-coil design for extended linear excursion - Best-in-class rigging for streamlined, rapid deployment - Full-face grill for superior weatherization and refined aesthetics - New transport cart and frame for simplified transport and setup - Optimizations throughout the design for space efficiency and reduced weight while simultaneously improving performance - Full integration with JBL system control and prediction software - Lightweight design
Cut The Cord Perform for up to 6 hours without recharging, courtesy of its extended-life lithium-ion battery. Leave the generator at home. Legendary JBL Professional Sound With 70 years of professional audio experience, the EON ONE PRO provides superior sound quality so you can sound great no matter where you play. Sound Coverage Across All Angles EON ONE PRO optimizes sound dispersion so your audience can hear your performance from all angles—even from behind. EON ONE PRO even recalibrates its sound depending on the number of high-frequency height spacers you choose when setting up. Bass You Can Feel Even without power, you can still sound powerful. The EON ONE PRO houses an 8” subwoofer that delivers low-end response that your audience can really feel. One-Hand, Easy-to-Carry Design At only 37.5 pounds, with EON ONE PRO’s easy-to-carry, lightweight and versatile design, you only need one hand. Plus, it fully collapses into the base, no shoulder bags or multiple trips required. Keep The Party Going Stream music from any Bluetooth-enabled device. With built-in USB, you won’t need to worry about keeping it charged—just plug it in. There’s even a built-in tablet stand so your device is always in reach. Capture Your Performance or Set the Vibe The EON ONE PRO features an accessory mount located at
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the top of the line-array speakers—simply attach a camera and you’re ready to record. You can also add a lighting element to set the perfect vibe.
Meet the Connected PA Family: JBL PRX800 Loudspeakers, dbx Di Direct Box, AKG P5i Microphone, Soundcraft Ui24R Mixer and AKG MDAi Connected PA Adapter
JBL Intonato 24: 24-Channel Monitor Management Tuning System
Martin Thrill Series
The JBL Intonato 24 Monitor Management Tuning System provides easy setup, automated calibration and comprehensive control of professional monitoring systems. Housed in a 2U rack-mount enclosure, Intonato 24 precisely calibrates and controls up to 24 speakers configured as stereo, surround or immersive audio systems. You can create and instantly recall customized routing of up to 24 analog, digital and networked audio sources. Included software and an optional Desktop Controller put the system’s powerful monitoring features at your fingertips.
Connected PA HARMAN Connected PA is a complete, integrated system of live sound products that allows musicians and performers at any skill level to quickly and easily get professional results. At the center of the Connected PA system is the groundbreaking new HARMAN Connected PA mobile app, which provides one centralized solution for intuitive setup, configuration and control. It is an industry first, and streamlines the setup process with one state-of-the-art centralapp for the entire component system, removing the need for multiple apps and GUIs. The app automatically identifies and configures connected equipment, provides setup wizards for quick and easy system configuration, and offers access from a variety of devices, including iOS and Android tablets, Mac OS and Windows. The Connected PA solution is enabled via ioSYS technology and initially includes equipment from Soundcraft, JBL, dbx and AKG, allowing musicians to create systems that suit their specific needs.
New line for DJs, musicians, and enthusiasts offers plug-andplay ease to enhance live performances and events Martin THRILL line of products are designed to provide professional lighting and atmospheric effects to musicians, DJs, and enthusiasts who want to bring a new level of polish and excitement to their performances and events. The THRILL range of products initially includes: - Mini Profile: a compact LED moving head with super sharp optics, superior output, and a color wheel offering 8 colors plus white and gobo effects. - Multi-FX LED: a 3-in-1 LED light fixture with laser, strobe, and rotating colored light effects. - SlimPAR Mini LED and SlimPAR 64 LED: bright and powerful LED PAR cans, the most common style of fixture used for stage-, wash- and up-lighting. - Vertical Fogger: a fog machine capable of producing 25-feet high plumes of fog that simulate “cyro” effects complimented with LED lights for stunning effects. All THRILL products work right out of the box with easy-touse presets for customers who have minimal to no lighting experience. With THRILL, musicians, DJs and home enthusiasts can spend their time focused on entertaining, rather than setting up and controlling complex equipment. Visit HARMAN at Hall 1, Booth D09 on the 1st June to witness the launch of VTX A12 line array system and to check out all the solutions above. www.harmanpro.in
Mini Profile
SlimPAR 64 LED
Multi-FX LED Vertical Fogger
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Sun Infonet To Showcase Leading Solutions Being an industry player since 1999, Sun Infonet has always tried to meet the complete requirement of the customers by providing all the solutions and latest technology under one roof and brought renowned brands like Shure, Allen & Heath, Quest, Nexo, Camco, Denon Professional and Marantz Professional under the flagship of Sun Infonet and established state-of-the art service centres in all the four metro cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and Chennai. Recently, Sun Infonet has added one more brand of Professional Line Array Segment Speakers “Audio Focus” to its inventory. The motto behind adding this brand was to give cost-effective solution to the customer. Sun Infonet’s Marketing Strategy relies on pre-sale and postsale education, for this purpose, in association with OEM’s the company has been conducting product and segment related workshops/seminars on regular basis and also providing platform to all the existing customers to get up-to-date with latest softwares/features of the products they had bought. Sun Infonet’s Sales strategy relies on quick resolution by trained sales team, availability of products / spares at a competitive price and technical support on prompt basis which is also backbone and forte of this company and is being liked by the Sound Professionals, Dealer Network and end users.
Some of the solutions on showcase at PALM India include:
Both AD series and ADX series transmitters are compatible with a shared Axient Digital receiver platform. This scalable wireless system includes a groundbreaking micro-bodypack and provides incomparable sound for a wide range of applications and settings. With outstanding signal quality in even the most complex, crowded environments, Axient Digital ensures maximum stability, range, and clarity for uncompromising audio you can trust – anywhere, everytime. Axient Digital defies limitations for both RF and audio quality. With industry-leading low latency, transparent frequency response, and wide dynamic range, Axient Digital lets nothing get in the way of true, pure sound. No matter the setting, you’ll hear Shure audio quality you can count on.
Quest Engineering QTC2080i High Intelligibility Ceiling Monitors The QTC2080i is a premium quality ceiling speaker with a wide range of installation and wiring possibilities. As a 16Ω loudspeaker up to four units can be connected to achieve a 4Ω load to an amplifier. This allows for up to eight speakers to be connected to a stereo amplifier with the result being a very high fidelity distributed system. Multiple 70/100 volt tapings and an EQ contour can be selected from the front baffle of an installed speaker. This allows for fine tuning after installation if desired.
Quest Engineering MX Monitors HighFidelity Weatherproof Loudspeakers
Shure Axient® Digital Series Incorporating the most innovative wireless audio technology in the world, Axient Digital was engineered from the ground up for professional productions that demand flawless execution. With an unprecedented level of signal stability and audio clarity, plus flexible hardware options, advanced connectivity, and comprehensive control, it’s a wireless system built to take on the challenges of today—and tomorrow.
Not just another new speaker range, the MX Series is a system of audio building blocks that allows architects and venue designers to create a seamless full range audio presence, without compromising on aesthetics. The range
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is based around a 6” or 8”, two-way, full range, wall or ceiling mountable loudspeaker and can be augmented with a very compact subwoofer system. Ceiling speaker versions are also available. The Ultra-compact MX601 and MX801 loudspeakers are very low profile and feature Hi-Fi quality audio reproduction, withstand direct all-weather environments, and include an installation friendly mounting system that is both elegant and practical.
Allen & Heath dLive C3500
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and networking port, dual 12" capacitive touchscreens and the innovative Harmony UI for the fastest workflow in the industry.
Audio Focus FR-X A Series Speakers The FR-X range (constant curvature) features compact 2-way active or passive enclosures loaded with neodymium speakers and ferrite compression drivers coupled to a versatile AF horns. Optimised for medium throw applications where clarity and high SPL is crucial. Operating over nominal frequencies from 50 Hz to 20 kHz, model dependent, the rotatable AF horn generates a 80° x 30° asymmetric directivity pattern. FR-X 12a & 15a are compact, 2-way, self-powered enclosure. It features one 12’’ & 15” neodymium speaker in a bass-reflex enclosure and one 1,4’’ ferrite compression driver coupled to a versatile AF horn. Visit Sun Infonet at Hall 1, Booth J1 to see the above solutions and more.
The C3500 is the largest C Class control Surface for the dLive MixRack. It features 24 faders over 6 layers, built-in audio I/O
SOUND.COM Invests In DiGiCo SD5 Digital Mixing Console Mumbai-based SOUND.COM, one of India’s foremost rental companies, recently added a DiGiCo SD5 digital mixing console to its inventory, purchased through DiGiCo’s authorized India partner, Hi-Tech Audio Systems, New Delhi. The team at SOUND.COM is committed to enhancing the sound experience by helping the audience build a palette for efficient sound and enabling an artist to amplify their vision in a concert.
The SD5 is not genre-specific. It can be used for anything from concerts, televised events, sporting to global spectaculars. In my opinion, this is the only desk that can we wired to any end of an optical cable, whether it’s for FOH, monitors or broadcast." “We also have a tried and tested SD10 that we recently upgraded to Steath Core 2 and optics. In the past, we have had many productions that need two DiGiCo consoles and there is also a demand for higher buss counts and inputs channels, particularly on our top tier productions. This cemented our reasons for working with DiGiCo and investing in their products.
Warren D’souza, Managing Director of SOUND.COM, explains why he opted for the SD5, “For me it was a simple decision and there wasn't any other console on my purchase radar,” he says. “It is the most rider acceptable console globally and Stealth Core2’s I think the SD5 sounds amazing exceptional processing power and, with the 192kHz SD Rack on an increases the SD5’s channel count HMA Connector to the SD5 surface Warren D’souza with his new SD5 to 243 inputs, 124 Aux/Sub Groups and engine, the sound is even more and 24X24 Matrix. And that’s just the stunning.” beginning. We were essentially investing in a SD7, but without the dual engine and an incredible worksurface. “We have been associated with Warren for a long time and have seen him investing only in the best,” says Rajan Gupta, The ability to have Waves plugins is also a big advantage, Managing Director, Hi-Tech Audio Systems. “He was very clear the commitment from both DiGiCo and Waves to developing on his requirements and what the SD5 could deliver for him. better products, plus the addition of DiGiGrid interfaces made We congratulate Warren on his purchase.” it an obvious, futureproof choice. It's not a secret that DiGiCo is the number one choice for all top touring engineers, globally. www.digico.biz
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Rivera International At The PALM EXPO INDIA Rivera, provides end-to-end audio solutions to their customers, including system design, installations, on-site trouble shooting, personnel training and software support. Their comprehensive suite of solutions is backed by their reliable after-sales support at a well-equipped Service Centre, located in the busiest electronics market of Mumbai. With a large inventory of spares and a team trained by technical experts from international brands, Rivera is capable of solving the most-challenging problems in audio solutions. This year at PALM EXPO 2017 Rivera will be participating with a bang, showcasing a wide range of audio systems which will include: Indoors Demo that are going to be displayed by Rivera at the expo are going to be as follows: Nova Maxline Demo, Nova Visio, Nova Union, and Nova IC12A. All of the Nova Competence meets High-Tech products with a dedicated support from Rivera International to meet potential target market in Mumbai. Rivera International is also going to present one of the live demos from a very famous brand for sound system, that is, KLING & FRIETAG. Kling & Freitag Sequenza Demo from the pro.CLASSICS series. The pro.CLASSICS products offer a large choice of solutions for all sound amplification situations. All in all - K&F pro. CLASSICS are the ideal sound systems for the widest variety of uses and provide maximum flexibility. One of the the main focus for this year is RELOOP. For the first time Reloop will be at the PALM EXPO, Mumbai/ India. Famous Reloop artist DJ DENS and his live showcases performances on the Reloop RP-8000 turntables, RMX-90 DVS mixer, and the Mixon 4 controller will be a key highlight. One of its kind!! Do not miss the live show of DJ DENS who will be travelling all the way from Germany with his mind blowing music tracks.
Rivera International has also come up with its very own product ToneArt Audio. They are amplifiers which have excellent functional and monetary value. The amplifiers can be taken on the rough world of touring to power a full-scale line array or a DJ’s ground stack, or installed in a club, bar, or auditorium. ToneArt consist of R series of Amplifiers and ToneArt Beetle. They say, “Great things come in small packages”. Ultracompact and super-light, technology-packed R Series amps are superb performers, and ideal where extreme power density is worth money from saving cost of transportation and power consumption. Just two models, a 2-channel and a 4-channel one, flexibly configurable and providing in between 1200W and 12000W output power, are catering to users demanding a maximum of efficiency, and the resulting benefits of ultimate portability, a much lower electricity bill and, indeed, a more sustainable environment. Lastly Rivera will showcase an attractive, compact and effective product by Rivera from ToneArt which is the ToneArt BETTLE. It is a ACTIVE PA system. ToneArt Beetle now on demo at AudioCrafters. Active Sub/ Sat System 1000 Watts 126 DB SPL. Ideal for Conferences, Banquet Halls, Mobile DJ Setup. You can also personally make an appointment in order for you to experience a live demo of the required product in our showroom AudioCrafters which is located 3, Ground Floor, Plot No 497, Roopraj Building, Opp Kotak Bank, S V P Road, Opera House, Mumbai-400004. Visit Rivera at Hall 1, Booth C31.
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Virasat-e-Khalsa Comes Alive With DTS And Sholite
A static museum goes narrative and dynamic through the medium of Light
Modern Stage Service (MSS) recently designed and executed one of the most recognizable and largest government funded fixed AV and lighting installation in the country - Virasat-eKhalsa Museum. It is an architectural vision, located in the holy town, Anandpur Sahib, near Chandigarh, the capital of the state of Punjab. This breath-taking museum where light plays the major role is a highly respected, praiseworthy combination of spiritualism, concrete and technology blended to form a rich heritage of the Khalsa’s history and culture of Punjab. MSS, well known for designing the lighting for theatres, auditoriums, public and private museums across the country has taken a revolutionary step, putting together trendsetting interactive elements and a sophisticated lighting control system to provide visitors a narrative museum, where stories depicting Sikhism come alive. “Light is the principle vehicle in this museum as we express the story through light,” said Amardeep Behl, Director, ABDH (Amardeep Behl Design Habit) which meant a lot of programming and interaction between computer systems. To create the historical world that comes alive and make people feel like part of the story, MSS employed DTS
patented technologies, using lighting fixtures featuring LED technology that can control set-ups of DTS LED products in various combinations with DTS DriveNets to power the lights. Sholite’s extremely versatile and bright aerial effects give the galleries unprecedented flexibility required to make the narrative museum dynamic. The MA-Lighting lighting console handles the complex shows efficiently. In the 65,000 square feet of interior space, there are two complexes at each side of the ravine, connected by the ceremonial bridge. The stories of ‘Panj-Pani’ starts in a boat shape building which has 27 galleries. The 14 galleries were done earlier in phase I and now the phase II is getting introduced to the public consisting of 13 galleries and lighting design by MSS. DTS products have been used in large numbers for lighting up the venue. All of the 27 galleries in their own way uniquely depict the history of Sikhism and how it originated and came into being. Generic effects like Rain, Fire, water, and others have been created by using 2 Generic GOBO Projectors and complemented by 12 Generic- Dome LED Chandeliers. The museum utilizes light effects to explain each bit of information there is, using state-of-the-art equipment and technologies like Holographic projections, Lighting
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and other effects combined with 3D mapping techniques completely synced with multiple channels of Audio to display war scenes with the sources so carefully placed that the audience feel like they are standing in the middle of the war for that brief moment. “We are making a narrative museum, which is very dynamic. Light is the principal vehicle in this museum as we express the story through the medium of light. Here the theme changes from static to dynamic mode and light plays the major role in it” saidVarinder Wadhwa under whose guidance MSS has completed 1300 theatres, auditoriums and public and private museums across the country. The final total area of 68,000 square feet will rank among the top museums of the world recreating history through artistic representation and craft techniques. The lighting solution is unique staying true to the form and style of the 15th century and later periods in each of the galleries telling the early stories of the Sikhs and the birth of the Khalsa. By carefully inserting a very savvy technology, emotional impact is emphasized. In the very first gallery, a non-linear experience using art, technology and music has no equal anywhere. The museum celebrates 500 years of Sikh history and the 300th anniversary of the birth of Khalsa, based on the scriptures written by the tenth and last guru, Guru Gobind Singh, designed by Moshe Safdie. Phase 2 of the continuing story of Sikhism at the Virasat-e-Khalsa museum is close to completion. It’s is tentatively slated to be opened to public mid-October. MSS has done an outstanding job bringing the museum to life.
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You can visit Modern Stage Service to know more about the company, their work and solutions at PALM India. Hall 5, Booth D17 www.modernstageservice.in
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A New Watering Hole And A New Sound Prym Audio fits out the night-life space " I have been in the Restaurant industry for 15 years. I used PrymAudio for the first time. Love the sound they have put up at the new 1522 Bel road and we have decided to use their services at our next project as well " Chethan Hegde - 1522
In the ever-changing landscape of Bangalore’s nightlife, pubs have been an enduring feature. As the city expands so has the need for nightlife spots that move beyond the central business district and this is what makes the launch of 1522 – The Pub, on new BEL road a big step. In a relatively new area of the city, that’s fast developing, 1522 stands out, pubs here are few and far between, but a most welcome sight for younger, working professionals. As the third brand under the 1522 chain of pubs, the New BEL road branch is set to be the flagship property for the chain. A resto-bar, with an ambience that’s hard to dislike 1522, is just the right spot to unwind after a long day in the office or to just enjoy a Sunday afternoon beer. After some deliberation and based on the recommendation of a previous client the management of 1522 approached E&E Systems India Pvt Ltd to provide the audio-visual set up for the pub, during the nascent stages of development. After preliminary discussions and a site visit, it was clear that this was going to be a significantly large project for the team.
Using a range of PrymAudio products the final installation was designed to uniformly cover the entire venue without compromising on sound quality. The PrymAudio 10” S10’s and 8” S8’s, compact two way loudspeakers that were installed at the venue consist of a low frequency woofer with a high-power magnet assembly and a titanium diaphragm, higher frequency compression driver with a 1.4" mounted on a low distortion 90° horizontal by 50° vertical dispersion fully rotatable horn, protected by Secure-Overdriver.To have a full frequency bandwidth reproduced faithfully the team installed two of the PrymAudio 15” sub-woofer S15. A week of hard labour and multiple tests later, for the team at E&E Systems, this was by far the finest installation put together. For the management of 1522, they were remarkably impressed. www.prymaudio.com
The most critical factor in this project was the need to provide top of the line audio-visual solutions that worked within a reasonable budget for the 1522 management. After multiple site visits, reassessing the audio-visual requirements and negotiations a system was chosen. It sounded incredible, was reasonably priced and fitted within the budget of 1522’s management.
Products used in this installation:
With the specifics out of the way, the arduous process of constructing the venue commenced while simultaneously the E&E Systems team, lead by Executive Director Poncho and Technical Manager Gladson, worked on designing the audiovisual set up, that would give the pub just the right ambience.
Video 1. 43" LED TV 2. 55" LED TV 3. Standard I/O player - BrightSign
Audio 1. PrymAudio 10" S10 2. PrymAudio 8" S8 3. PrymAudio 15" Subwoofer S 15 4. PA D400 and PA D600 Amplifiers 5. Blu 100 and Blu 10 Processors
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Amaazia – A Truly Ama‘zing’ Experience Hi-Tech Audio Systems ensures installed audio system complements the experience
Surat, the commercial capital of Gujarat, is often credited with many titles and attributes. Famously referred to as ‘textile capital’ and ‘diamond capital’ of India, the erstwhile Suryapur city has recently acquired yet another embellishment- ‘city of water parks.’
• Asia’s largest water pool • India’s first water park with 100 per cent imported rides, brought from Italy, Germany and Switzerland • First in Asia to bring world’s number one ride King Cobra, • And more like a variety of audio plays and fun places.
Amaazia – as the newest funtainment destination in town is called – is a truly amazing zing thing. A prestigious project by Rajgreen Group, designed by the famed Sanderson Group of Australia, the newest amusement destination is making a very distinct score. An ETA special. Delve into it.
Playing an important part in the whole entertainment fare is the audio component that had to stand out as one impacting factor, contributing to the experience. Delhi-based audio and entertainment solutions major Hi-Tech Audio Systems landed this prestigious as well challenging job of design and build the audio set-up towards making the thrill park rides more real.
Fairytale dreams often come true not just for children but for adults as well. Imagine exploring a tidal wave of fun to a tropical paradise in an amazing water park; experiencing the thrill of the world-class theme park rides and myriad entertainment joints coming for the first time to India- from serene to extreme, all under one single roof! Stories, it appears not only come alive, but stay alive. A sprawling, 16-acre whimsical land, named Amaazia – in tune with its trappings – in Surat, is a new wonderment in town. Promoted by Surat’s leading Realty major Rajgreen Group, and designed by the famed Australian firm Sanderson Group – known for creating Sea World in Canada, and Warner Bros. Studio in Australia, besides others – the Amaazia sports some veritable entertainment statements:
Manik Gupta
“The client wanted us to design a centralized background music (BGM) system in a zoned pattern with announcements to be made from one central location,” explains Manik Gupta, Director (Sales)-Projects at Hi-Tech Audio Systems. “Understandably, they wanted different music to be played in different zones, but control their volume levels and ON/OFF for each zone from the centralized hub.”
According to Manik, who stayed in the centre of the whole design-build process, they were all clear about one spec: that
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the park is open almost 365 days a year, the systems to be installed had to be really sturdy, and reliable, to withstand any harsh environment. The client was also keen to have a solution provider who has an office in Mumbai, or nearby Surat so that they stood to get any after-sales-support immediately. The client had a few team members from a Project Management Consultancy firm who had worked on the Ferrari World project in Abu Dhabi which meant the client brief had inputs coming from them as well. In addition to the BGM, the client had also wanted local music source in a few areas like Lazy River Area; Rain Dance Area etc. at certain times of the day, so that brought additional specs to the design. Team Hi-Tech visited the site; did a thorough need analysis, and took a good two weeks to understand the client requirement, and the site challenges before it submitted the design and system proposal. “We made a detailed proposal along with speaker locations and block schematics after the first meeting,” informs Manik. “Not many changes, except a few in speaker quantitiesbecause they were not required in some office/admin areas,” he explains, “We had designed a very sturdy and fool-proof system, so we to stick with our proposal till the end.”
Amazing Design…That Is… Accordingly, Hi-Tech teams set out to design the audio ambience for the entire stretch. The complete park was divided into 11 Audio Zones for different pipe music in each zone with varied audio levels. One big challenge in designing the system was that there was no such acoustic partition between zones; more, the speaker selection and their locations were to be chosen in such a way that the spill over between the zones was just minimal, if not zero. Further, the speakers were to be IP55 rated or even better.
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The system designer had to choose speakers for a design that would create the right atmosphere and emotion- whether for an adrenaline-pumping ride or a relaxed ambience in indoors or outdoors throughout the parks and attractions, yet with minimal spill over between zones. The design also laid a particular emphasis on camouflaging the systems to avoid tampering and disturbing the ambience of the place. Recalls Manik: “For few areas like Lazy River where we had proposed Floor Mount garden speakers Bose Panarray 360P, we discussed with the team from The Sanderson Group for camouflaging it with something which is sturdy and can protect the speakers from tampering. They came up with a wonderful custom design to cover the speakers.” According to him, with a view to making a very impacting system design in certain critical areas like the Wave Pool Area, and Rain Dance Area which are the park’s main attractions besides the rides, Team Hi-Tech designed 3D simulations. For the back-end support, the system designer had asked for two Control Room locations considering the size of the park, and also for Fiber Optic network to minimize the otherwise transmission losses via the conventional copper cables. “This helped us to eliminate central routing matrix to avoid single point of failure,” explains Manik. “We utilised the existing network of the park to connect between the two Control Rooms over DANTE Audio. Audio and Control Processor with appropriate number of I/O channels, Call Stations, Message Server, Multi-channel Audio Source were proposed to meet the functionality requirement of the customer."
The Systems In The Design… Bose Professional Partner that Hi-Tech is, they understandably chose a complete range of Bose products for the whole of the
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install. For Wave Pool Area they used Bose Flagship Point and Shoot LT Range of weatherized speakers and subwoofers with 3 units of LT 9702WR and 2 units of dual 12-inch MB24WR subwoofers. These systems was deployed to produce high SPL pumping music during wave generation to play EDM style music and to overcome high noise levels of water babbles, and public cheer. The complete park is surrounded by a free flowing Lazy River where people can get in a tube and relax and hence needed a system with rich ambience music. The complete Lazy River was covered with Bose Garden speakers Freespace 360P which were camouflaged with a unique design by the architects. These speakers have a 360° coverage and hence covered both walking pathways and the Lazy River. Rain Dance Area is another big attraction of the park. This indoor area is like a night club with a unique design of sprinklers from ceiling, sides and floor. Speakers for this space were again proposed to be weather proof/sprinkle proof so
the installer employed 4 units of iconic IP55 Bose Panarray 802 speakers with IP56 MB12WR Subwoofers to produce thumping loud music through DJ. Says Manik “so from King Cobra rides to kiddies’ areas, indoors and outdoors, in queue lines and eating areas, we created a sound that is just the right ambience for a funpacked day.” The Hi-Tech Exec, while he based the success of the install on his design expertise, he acknowledges the superlative performance specs of the brands his team employed- Bose, Biamp, Alcorn MC Bridge, Klotz Cables etc. to ensure that the desired quality and reliability was achieved.
Paradigm Shift in Design… At the heart of the sound system, the Hi-Tech Director says, is their engineered backend system which is a combination of products from Bose and Biamp processors and call stations to make zone-wise announcements. Complete system is sitting on the park’s LAN network and can be monitored from multiple locations as desired. The backend set-up provided thus has shifted the paradigm from traditional system with a centralized processing and central routing matrix into a new future i.e. networked future. Logging and system monitoring information is stored locally. More, the system is expandable and can be linked to other new facilities coming up on the premises i.e. a world class Club House, a premium mall and a multiplex cinema etc.
Challenges Addressed… Like every project, Amaazia too posed its own set of challenges, and given its scale, some of them took the design
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team to test. One of the earliest challenges was about the speaker design to avoid or minimize decibel spill over between zones even as they produce appropriate SPL to overcome noise levels of people and water. It was indeed a potential one. “We also had challenges with certain proposed location of speakers as interiors changed dynamically at later stages,” recalls Manik, “we had to accommodate those chances to ensure excellent customer experience.” Choosing the cable routes was another. That the project itself was an outdoor water park install, many services - specially plumbing - were being used underground and the install team had to ensure that it didn’t overlap with them. The Hi-Tech team thus got involved from the very initial stage of civil works on site to ensure it got the conduits laid before the foundation works for Lazy River started. “Perhaps, the biggest of all, was to live up to the client’s expectation in design, quality and functionality within the budget assigned,” reveals the Hi-Tech Exec. “Client had left the design onto us; so we had a bigger responsibility to ensure that it was done right.” The Amaazia management is understandably happy with the system design and the experience it weaved around. “We are extremely glad to be the first one in India to create a world-class integrated amusement park catering to audiences of all ages,” says Rajesh Taylor, Project Director at Amaazia. “We wanted to create a facility of international standard and chose to go with brand Bose for audio systems and a system integrator with expertise and experience to integrate such systems professionally,” he explains, “so we chose Hi-Tech Audio Systems. We are very happy with this new system and look forward to extending the same in upcoming facilities also.” www.hitechaudiosystems.com
The next big thing is small. Are you ready? www.dataton.com/infocomm2017
DATATON PREMIUM PARTNER South East Asia
DATATON SALES REPRESENTATIVE SAARC Region
Audio Visual Technique Ltd Phone: +852 90397878 Email: info@avtchina.net
Ashok Sharma Phone: +91 9820610670 Email: india@dataton.com
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By Pat Brown
What Are The Differences Between Analog And Digital Interfaces?
Are you new to digital audio? Are you confused by the landscape of formats that have emerged in the marketplace? Following is a short expose that may shine some light on this potentially confusing topic.
is not a consideration, since analog audio signals are low in frequency in terms of the electromagnetic spectrum (Fig. 2).
Inputs and Outputs It’s all about inputs and outputs (I/O). How do I get an audio signal from one to the other? The ongoing evolution of professional audio has produced a number of viable digital interfaces to complement legacy analog I/O practices. The choices may seem confusing at first, but when you break them down the strengths and weakness of each become apparent. In this overview, I will start with analog since it is familiar to most readers and serves as a reference for the discussion of digital formats. I will focus on professional interfaces only. While similar in many ways to consumer I/O, professional are more robust against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and allow much longer cables – both requisites for large sound systems.
(Figure 2) Analog audio (sometimes called baseband audio) is below 100 kHz in terms of spectral content. This is “low” frequency in terms of the entire electromagnetic spectrum.
Pros: • Simple and mature. • Easy to troubleshoot. • Ultra-reliable. • Does not require impedance-matching between output and input. • Signal propagation through a device or down a cable is instantaneous, with no practical delay or “latency” that must be considered.
Cons: • The electrical properties of the cable can degrade the signal. • Multiple audio connections, along with electrical “grounds” can produce ground loops, which may in turn cause hum and buzz problems. • Multi-pair cables are heavy and expensive. (Figure 1) An analog interface is point-to-point, with no exact requirements with regard to cable type, connector type, and cable.
A professional analog interface is a point-to-point connection between an output and an input (Fig. 1). It is electrically balanced, which provides strong immunity to EMI. Cabling is shielded twisted-pair. The interface is impedance mis-matched, where a low output impedance (typically < 200 ohms, or Ω) drives a high input impedance (typically > 2000 Ω). The impedance mismatch simplifies the interface by (usually) eliminating the need to consider specific impedance values. For example, a 100 ohm output would produce the exact same signal level into any high impedance input (10kΩ, 20kΩ, 30kΩ, etc.). An “output” simply connects to an “input” – end of story. It is often permissible to passively split an analog output to drive several inputs. It is not permissible to “Y” multiple outputs together. The signal is in the form of a time-varying analog voltage that can span a level range of over 100 dB. Signals are classified by the magnitude of this voltage (e.g. mic level, line level, loudspeaker level). The signal flows in one direction only – from output to input. Cable lengths are limited by cable capacitance, and can approach 300 m (1000 ft) in some applications. Analog connectors are classified by the number of electrical contacts. The impedance of cables and connectors
Digital I/O – Audio Industry-Specific Formats The professional audio industry has standardized several pointto-point digital audio formats. These are designed to largely insulate the user from the complex inner workings of the interface and the complexity of the data. The most common are AES3 (USA) and AES-EBU (Europe). I’ll use AESx to refer to both. They are mostly identical except for a few details.
(Figure 3) A digital audio interface has more exact requirements than an analog interface. This includes an (approximate) impedance match, and there are less connector options.
Like analog, AESx is a one-way connection between an output and an input. AESx was designed to allow the use of balanced analog cabling and connectors, most often an XLR male output driving and XLR female input via a shielded twisted-pair cable. For short runs (< 30 m, or 100 ft), one may use the same cable as for a balanced analog interface. Low-capacitance cable designed specifically for digital I/O can extend the cable length
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to 100 m (300 ft). As always with cabling, your mileage may vary depending on the specifics of your application. Other cabling options exist including coax (AES3id – essentially a video interface) and category cabling (e.g. CAT5e). AESx can also be deployed using space-saving DB25 connectors on multi-pair cable (up to 16 channels). The exact implementation is product specific, and there are passive methods for converting between each. The manufacturer determines the specifics based on the target market for the product.
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Since the data rate approaches 10 MHz (a 1.5 MHz fundamental plus odd harmonics), the interface must be impedance-matched (110 Ω) to prevent degradation of the signal traveling down the cable by reflections and standing waves. Like all impedance-matched topologies, AESx is a one-to-one connection – one output drives one input. Multi-channel versions include AES10 (MADI) and AES50 (HRMAI). While based on AESx, the details regarding clocking are quite different. These multi-channel interfaces are popular for connecting digital mixers to their respective stage boxes.
An important difference between analog and AESx is that an AESx connection carries two audio channels over a single twisted-pair. There is nothing special about the XLR connectors, and some products allow the user to select between analog and digital using the same input or output connector, saving space on the chassis (Fig. 4). The high compatibility with analog I/O cabling and connectors is a major strength of AESx.
(Figure 5) Sample rate and bit depth can be expressed as a data rate for the digital bit stream, a sort of conveyor belt for the one’s and zero’s that make up the digital signal. AESx digital audio consists of two channels, with a data rate of about 6 Mbps.
It’s About Time (Figure 4) The input connectors for a four-input AESx processor. Note that for XLRs are required for analog, but only two are required for four channels of AESx (two channels on each connector). There is a switch to select between analog and AES (courtesy Marani).
Digital Audio Quality The objective of digitization of the analog signal is lossless encoding. This requires a sample rate greater than 2 times the analog signal bandwidth, along with a dynamic range that approaches 100 dB. So, the main attributes of the data are the bit depth and sample rate. Most devices default to “24/48” which means 24 bit words flowing at a 48 kHz sample rate. Greater sample rates are possible, and are sometimes used for special applications. The sample rate, bit depth, and number of channels can be multiplied to yield the “data rate.” This gives us a simpler, one number way to describe the digital audio resolution. Figure 5 shows the minimum data rate for one channel of full-range audio. A strength of digital audio in general is that the data rate can be reduced using lossy or lossless compression schemes. AESx signals are usually not compressed to reduce the data rate, since the minimum requirements for full resolution are easily met by the current technology. The bit stream contains the audio samples (or payload) along with metadata that carries information about the signal required for decoding. This “protocol” must be adhered to by both the output and input circuits, or no audio will flow.
All digital signals require a clock signal to keep multiple components in synchronization. AESx has the clock signal embedded in the data stream, so a dedicate word clock connection is often not needed for simple systems. AESx components often have word clock I/O for more complex systems. The output of a digital component is always latent relative to the input. There is an unavoidable delay. Latency is cumulative, and system designers have a “latency budget” that must be observed to avoid timing issues.
Pros: • “Analog-like” regarding I/O. • Two channels on one cable. • High immunity to electro-magnetic interference and ground loops. • 24/48 resolution is lossless with regard to analog I/O.
Cons: • Potential clocking issues. • Requires special instrumentation to troubleshoot. • Due to the high frequency nature of the signal, an impedance match is required between and output and an input. • Output is always latent – the only variable is “how much?”
Digital I/O – Data Networks Once the analog audio signal is digitized, it’s data. Technology has provided some very efficient means of data transport between computers, the most widespread of which
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is the Ethernet network. Audio-over-Ethernet (AoE) exploits the low cost and ubiquity of data networks to transport audio data. While AESx and its siblings are audio industry-specific, AoE utilizes technology from the Information Technology (IT) industry as a means of audio transport.
The audio practitioner must learn the specifics of the AoE “flavor” that they are using. This includes running a control application on a PC to route audio signals, and configuring network switches for the required QoS.
Which AoE “Flavor?” There are competing AoE formats. As of this writing, Audinate’s Dante™ enjoys the most widespread use. This can (and probably will) change with time, and competing formats such as Audio Video Bridging (AVB) (now referred to as Time Sensitive Networking (TSN)), will emerge as alternatives. AES67 is an initiative to produce inter-operability between the various AoE formats, so it may eventually be possible intermix AoE formats.
(Figure 6) AoE requires the connection of each component to a network switch. The I/O connections are made using a configuration program (e.g. Dante Controller™ or Cobranet Disco™).
It is important to point out that AoE is just a transport. The quality of the digital audio is determined by the sample rate and bit depth. As such, all AoE formats should sound the same.
The analog waveform is first sampled, and then “packet-ized.” A packet consists of a few audio samples and some additional “meta” data necessary to traverse the data network. The AoE protocol (e.g. Cobranet, Dante, Q-Sys, Ravenna – there are others) assures that the data gets “on” and “off” of the network to produce a contiguous waveform at the receiving end. High speed networks (e.g. 1000BaseT or “Gigabit”) can transport hundreds of channels. Unlike the “oneway street” AESx formats, a single cable can carry signals in both directions.
Pros:
It’s Not Audio. It’s Data! Regarding I/O, it’s a data network and the rules are rigid and established by the IT industry. The user is largely insulated from the complex inner workings of the network, and deployment in smaller systems is relatively plug-and-play. Audio practitioners must acquire IT skills to deploy large AoE networks. Ideally, an audio-only data network is established using dedicated network switches. Increasingly, AoE may reside on the venue’s backbone with other data traffic such as email, web browsing, point-of-sale, etc. – the so-called converged network. On a converged network, the audio packets must have higher priority than other data traffic. This is called Quality of Service (QoS). A chunk of a large network can be reserved for audio data through use of a Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN). A VLAN requires a more sophisticated “managed” switch than a simple, dedicated network. Due to the simple wiring, quantity of channels, and low-cost network hardware, AoE has become a very popular digital audio transport. A major difference between AoE and AESx (and its siblings) is that AESx, like analog, is point-to-point, requiring a direct connection between the output and input. AoE is a network, so signals can be routed between any network devices, regardless of where they are connected to the network. This provides extreme versatility regarding signal routing for larger venues, campuses, studios, etc.
• 24/48 digital audio. • Hundreds of channels on a single CATx cable. • Ubiquitous cabling and connectors. • Low-cost hardware infrastructure.
Cons: • Data networks can get complicated. • Problems can be difficult to troubleshoot. • Converged networks require cooperation with the IT department. • No intuitive relationship to analog audio. • QoS issues. • Multiple AoE protocols exist, and no manufacturer supports all of them. • IT is a different skill set, and requires specialized training.
Spectral Content and the Need for “Exactness” One way to frame the differences between the formats is in regard to the requirement for “exactness” of the interface variables. This, in turn, is based on where the signal spectrum falls in the overall electromagnetic spectrum. As with most things audio, it is a gradient, with no clear “right” or “wrong” answer. Since audio by definition is low in frequency, analog audio interfaces are fairly permissive with regard to the interface details. One can sort of “get away with murder” and still get audio. Many wire and connector types will “work” but it is good practice to use twisted-pair cabling, ideally with a shield. Cable testing is basically a simple continuity test. The signal pair can be “bridged” with a butt set to detect the signal (Figure 7). Digital I/O moves further up the spectrum. The interface details become more black and white. For example, analog audio simply requires a low impedance output be connected to a high impedance input. All digital I/O formats require an impedance match, but AESx is more permissive than AoE. This explains why we don’t need “special” XLR connectors for AESx
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(Figure 10) The requirement for precision in interfacing depends on the spectral content of the signal. The higher the data rate, the more the details matter. (Figure 7) A simple “butt set” is all that is required for analog troubleshooting.
signals. It’s also why Euroblock and DB25 connectors can work. Even analog cabling can work at short distances. Cable testing is often performed by the audio gear itself, and whether the AESx input can “lock” to the AESx output. Special testers are available that allow the lock signal to be detected, and the audio decoded and listened to (Fig. 8).
(Figure 8) A specialty tester for AESx interfaces (courtesy Whirlwind).
At the highest frequencies (AoE on a gigabit network) the interface details are so stringent that they can’t be left to chance. The interface, cables, and connectors have an exact specification and no decisions are left to the end user. While continuity testers can work at the most basic level, the testing can (and should) be much more sophisticated. Along with cable testing there is a need to verify the system bandwidth, component addressing, Powerover-Ethernet (PoE) requirements, and more. Instrumentation for troubleshooting can be PC-based or stand-alone (Fig. 9).
(Figure 9) A standalone tester for network troubleshooting (courtesy Fluke).
The Inevitable Metaphor If you read my stuff then you knew this was coming. Here’s a way to describe the various interface methods to the lay person. Analog is like driving a jeep on a one-way dirt road. In spite of the bumps, the vehicle can weave all over the place and still get to its destination intact. AESx is like a Formula One car on an oval track. The higher speed requires a smoother surface and some boundaries. AoE is like a bullet train. There is an exact path and the margin for error is razor thin. At those speeds, any small discontinuity can have disastrous consequences. This also explains why there are so many poorly performing analog systems in use. Impaired analog interfaces can still pass audio and no one may even realize they are impaired unless there is a direct comparison to a more ideal interface. So, as we move up in the spectrum from analog, to AESx digital, to AoE the interfacing details become more exact and there is less room to bend the rules. What we get in exchange for increased complexity are more channels and greater versatility – valuable benefits for many system types. Digital audio has not obsolesced analog, and AoE has not obsolesced AESx and its siblings. All have their place. Analog still remains the standard by which to judge the fidelity of a digital system. Sometimes the simplest approach is the best, and sometimes it isn’t.
About the Author: Pat Brown along with his wife Brenda are principal owners of SynAudCon. SynAudCon provides online and in-person training in audio and acoustics. Pat writes articles for trade publications and authored three chapters for Glen Ballou’s “Handbook for Sound Engineers”. He is also a co-author of Sound System Engineering – 4th Edition, the premier text book on sound system design. Pat is also the president of Pro Sound Testing Company, Inc. Pro Sound Testing provides precision loudspeaker testing for the audio industry. His experience with loudspeaker testing allows him to bring that much more information to the seminars. www.prosoundtraining.com
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Bose Professionalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ShowMatch DeltaQ Offers True Scalability
In March, Bose Professional held a product launch in Singapore for ShowMatch DeltaQ. The product launch was a full concert set-up, with a live band performance to show the quality and audio integrity of the speakers. The launch saw a good turnout that included visitors from within the South-East Asia region. ETA was curious to find out more about ShowMatch and what differentiates it from the rest. So we spoke to Rob Kosman, Manager, Global Applications & Events of Bose Professional to give us some insight.
Why did Bose decide to release ShowMatch? At Bose Professional, our mission is to deliver great sound to every seat in the house which leads to the constant development of new and innovative technologies to meet the needs of our customers. RoomMatch, Bose Professionalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first DeltaQ array product has been successfully applied in a wide variety of applications over the past 5 years. Through conversations with customers, we identified that there was a need for a smaller, lighter product that could deliver higher SPL at longer distances for live sound and that could also be used for touring. The newest DeltaQ array loudspeaker, ShowMatch, is able to do all of these things.
Please explain the key features and what differentiates it from other similar systems in the market. While ShowMatch offers a number of unique and innovative features there are several key elements which truly differentiate this system from other products on the market. The first is the EMB2 compression driver which operates over a wide frequency range allowing us to create designs that do not have a crossover within the critical vocal range. This driver also delivers significantly lower harmonic distortion as compared to competitive designs which further improves both vocal and musical performance. The second is the Continuous Arc Diffraction Slot, (CADS). The CADS manifold design allows us to use multiple EMB2 drivers for each enclosure and delivers interference free summation below 16 kHz within a single module and between multiple modules in an array. The third element is that Bose Professional uses the largest in-class waveguides for all DeltaQ loudspeakers. The size and depth of the waveguide determines the frequency to
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"No other array product offers the flexibility to build all three array configurations from one product line." Where do you see the opportunities for ShowMatch in terms of segments? The ShowMatch system is uniquely suited for two primary segments: the global universe of fixed-install performance venues that serve roadshows and touring acts who require concert-quality audio support, and the active rental system service providers who offer high quality sound, staging, lighting and video solutions to discriminating special-event clients. http://showmatch.bose.com
Features: which pattern control can be achieved, and we try to extend this as low in the frequency range as possible. The result is outstanding music and vocal clarity for a wide variety of room types. Lastly, ShowMatch offers three unique vertical angles, 5, 10 and 20 degrees, and the array modules can be field modified to adjust their horizontal angle. This flexibility allows system designers to create a new class of array, which we call a DeltaQ array. In a DeltaQ array we vary the Q, or directivity of each module or section of an array, to precisely match the coverage requirement of the audience area. By focusing the sound energy on the audience and not on reflective surfaces we deliver increased musical and vocal clarity and increased intelligibility for a variety of applications.
Where is Bose positioning ShowMatch? The current ShowMatch offering is a compact (2x8" format) array system. As such it will naturally be compared by system adopters with alternatives that may at first appear to be similar on the surface, like L-Acoustics' Kara, d&b Audiotechnik's V-Series and Meyer Sound's Leopard.
Has the system been already used in a big event?
ShowMatch DeltaQ features EMB2S compression drivers and field changeable waveguides
• The ShowMatch family includes array modules in three vertical coverage angles: 5-degree, 10-degree, and 20-degree vertical. • Designed for both portable and installed applications, the compact 2-way design features four EMB2S compression drivers and a pair of 8-inch neodymium woofers which are proprietary to Bose Professional. • Each module features field changeable waveguides which provide the flexibility to create 8 unique horizontal and vertical coverage patterns for the creation of DeltaQ arrays. • The system also includes a companion subwoofer with a single 18-inch high excursion transducer that is acoustically matched to the array modules.
Has there been confirmed orders of the system in the Asia region already?
• ShowMatch also includes a full set of rigging accessories. Rigging frames can support up to 24 modules with a 10:1 safety factor. The full frame offers center and side rail rigging, while the T-Frame is a smaller, lighter option ideal for rental applications. Both frames are compatible with the Multi-point bracket which used for a single point, center-rail hang.
Yes, over 1,000 modules of ShowMatch have been sold globally and many orders for ShowMatch DeltaQ are in progress within the Asia region including planned projects in Australia, South Korea and Thailand.
• Accessories are also available for the creation of small hanging arrays as well as ground stack systems with and without subs.
The ShowMatch DeltaQ product just started shipping in December and we are currently in conversations with many customers globally. There are a number of live music venues and houses of worship that have already installed the product.
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Interview With Markus Jahnel,COO, Adam Hall It was two years ago that Adam Hall set up its Asia office in Singapore, helmed by Chandan Mahtani, as Managing Director, Adam Hall Asia Pte Ltd. The office is meant as a support office for distributors within the region and it also features a fullfledged Showroom. The Showroom was designed to allow SIs to bring clients from around the region to hear, see and experience the Adam Hall plethora of solutions. In India, Adam Hall solutions are represented by Kripa Electronics(India) Pvt Ltd. In a recent visit to Singapore, ETA took the opportunity to interview Markus Jahnel,COO, Adam Hall.
ETA: Has the setting up of Adam Hall Asia been justifiable?
ETA: How has the business in Asia-Pacific been since the set-up in Singapore? Markus: Asia-Pacific is very important and strategic to our growth. We are a global company and Asia is a key focus for us as the market is developing quickly. Sales wise it is growing steadily, Currently Asia-Pacific accounts for 5% of our revenue. Do note that that is 5% of an 80 million Euro company, so it is not a small sum. We believe that within the next 3 years, China will be our number one market in Asia-Pacific.
ETA: Is there any particular brand that is Asia?
Markus: We had actually started market research about the doing well for Adam Hall in region four years ago that led to us setting up Adam Hall Asia two years ago. It was certainly the right decision by us. Not just the setting up but the location as well, that being Singapore. Our investment in the infrastructure including the showroom is correct. This is actually our contribution to our partners. The showroom is here to support them plus we have a good team here that provides (L-R)Bodo Falkenried,Head of Global Business Development, Adam Hall, Chandan additional services to Mahtani, Managing Director, Adam Hall Asia Pte Ltd and Markus Jahnel,COO, Adam Hall them such as training.
ETA: Tell us more about the Warehouse facility in Ningbo, China. Markus: We set up the warehouse one and a half years ago within a trade free zone. This has had significant effect for us. 90% of our solutions across all our brands are available in the warehouse. This helps our customers in keeping their cost down in terms of freight and of course there is a quicker lead time as it is being shipped out of China.
ETA: How about the manufacturing aspect? Markus: We are a real manufacturer with R&D in Germany. Yes we do manufacture most of our products in China. Our OEM facility is a reputable company plus we station a German Engineer for QC check in the facility. All R&D however is confined within Germany. Components for our products are also sourced from renowned manufacturers.
Markus: LD is doing very well for us in Asia. Gravity is fairly new as we started in 2015 but it is picking up very quickly for us. One reason is that the design and style has made Gravity a “sexy product” that speaks to the new generation of musicians out there. Asia-Pacific however is very diverse. In some countries our sales is mainly project based whereas in some countries like Australia, New Zealand and the Philippines we do very well in the retail stores.
ETA: What do you feel is driving Adam Hall’s sales? Markus: Simple. We offer quality solutions at reasonable price. Our products are well designed and engineered in Germany with very good technical specifications for attractive prices. All we do we do with passion and enthusiasm – this is one important key why we are so successful. Actually we manufacture less entry level solutions and more pro-level solutions with unique designs and features. Visit Kripa Electronics (India) at Hall 1, Booth H47 to check out the various ADAM Hall solutions. www.adamhall.com
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