This issue of SS-SoundSolutions has two sets of page numbers - SS-1 to SS-52 for SoundSolutions, pages OS-1 to OS-26 for OfficeSolutions and AS-1 to AS-14 for AudiSolutions. OfficeSolutions and AudiSolutions is inserted between pages SS-42 and SS-43 of SoundSolutions.
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MINDSHARE SS E D I T O R I A L
Spirituality & Technology Spirituality is purity of mind, soul, and each one’s endeavours. For some it is transcendental, for some it is practical. (How many have read the book ‘Practical Spirituality’ by Dr. S Radhakrsihnan?) Most believe there is a delicate and intricate line separating the two. I believe it’s a technology of mind that hovers on this thin line. In other words, it’s the technology with which the mind works that either separates or bridges the two domains of abstract and real- which is why technology touches practically everything!
It’s after all a technology world today; and viewed from the above perspective, technology often drives and guides the purity of mind and soul, and helps realise the Self. Exemplifying this is the cover story this time. Since technology juxtaposes physics and metaphysics, a fine blend of the two can be as intriguing as it can get. Demonstrating this in a very entertaining fashion is our First Person account. The emphasis here is that both spirituality and technology are often referred to as ‘esoteric,’ and / or worlds apart- which
need not be necessarily so. They can be as enjoyable as one can take it. Today’s generations most of whom have apparently lost their critical links to this delicacy need to pick up a point or two from this summation and explore their mindscapes to the level of understanding the intricate line bridging spirituality and technology called modern living.
Bhavanashi Ramakrishna Editor
Value - INR 150 (USD15)
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Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.
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TEAM SANDY (in alphabetical order)
Bhavanashi Ramakrishna
SOUND NOTES
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Published by Sandeep Mittal on behalf of Sandy Media 231, 7th Cross, Indiranagar 1st Stage, Bengaluru 560 038, India Phone +9180 2527 2812 Fax +9180 2521 5094 info@sandy.in www.sandy.in Regional Offices 51 Regency Chambers, National Library Road, Bandra (W), Mumbai 400 050 Phone +9122 2643 9732 Telefax +9122 2640 5023 67 Masjid Road, Jungpura Bhogal, New Delhi 110 014. Phone +9111 2437 8061 Telefax +9111 2437 4848 B5, 2nd Floor, Gems Court, 14, Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai 600 006 Phone +9144 2833 0906 Telefax +9144 2833 0907 RNI # KARENG02795/10/1/2002-TC Layout & Graphic Design: Raghavendra T
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SoundSolutions, fondly and conveniently called SS, has traversed with time, taking the demand for change in its stride. Since the time it took its rebirth in the first quarter of 2004, it had been an effective, interactive platform between the sound and light industry and a wide spectrum of professionals associated with it- like architects, acousticians, AV and lighting specialists and system integrators. The SS now comes to you with its unique package of two exclusive sections: AS (AudiSolutions), and OS (Office Solutions), catering to the longtime demand of you all- the discerning readers, industry professionals and entrepreneurs. Sandy Media’s trusted and tested tradition of speciality coverage is further qualified with a fascinating mix of product briefs, industry updates, unique installs and profiles of industry leaders. We believe the new SS fare will be more fascinating than its predecessor. However, our belief needs reinforcement and endorsement from you – our trusted readers – to help us move forward. We, therefore, invite all our readers to send in their views as well as suggestions relating to the information packaged in SS/AS/OS. Your letters may be edited and SS retains the right to accept or reject any letter depending on the merit of the subject discussed. So, please do send us your Sound Notes, right now. Mail your feedback to ram@sandy.in
SS (SoundSolutions) is a quarterly publication on AV, sound, architectural acoustics, noise control, technical lighting and design for private circulation. SS reaches to architects, interior designers, acousticians, performing space owners and trade professionals in India and select cities in the world. SS seeks a healthy promotion of acoustics, AV and allied fields through dissemination of useful information. Some of the information is compiled from industry sources, trade journals, company brochures, etc. for the benefit of readers. SS acknowledges with thanks the authors and publishers of these source materials. SS is a trademark under registration and the contents are under copyright registration. All rights reserved. Reproduction by any means in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Unsolicited printed material is welcome but no responsibility is undertaken for the same and will not be returned. Letters to the editor are welcome but subject to editing for publishing. SS does not take responsibility for absolute accuracy of information published.
Products... Check Them Out! The domain of audio-visual technologies is a very hot space. Exciting, often amusing, if not crazy! With technologies impacting the space faster than even one's imagination, there is a new concept, if not a product straight away, coming to the market almost every day, to take the user communities by wonderment! SoundSolutions continues its effort to present some exciting products that have either hit the market recently or going to hit soon. They might as well hit the market even as this feature goes to press, or reaches you! (Bear with us, in case you know these products already!)
Two New LCD Projectors from Christie projector delivers Christie quality, dependability, performance and a low cost of ownership to rental and staging markets, fixed installations, houses of worship, higher education, and lighting markets. A hardworking, durable projector designed for heavy use in virtually any Pro A/V environment, the Christie LX605 is equipped with the same rich featureset as the Christie LX505 but with 6000 lumens.
Christie announced the launch of two new projectors, the Christie LX505 and Christie LX605. Targeted to the Pro A/V market, these versatile projectors offer the latest in LCD technology enhancements. Additionally, both projectors feature 3D Keystone technology, a new fourcorner geometry correction function for versatility in projector placement and easy display set-up. The projector boasts numerous product enhancements over its predecessor, the Christie LX500. In addition to 3D Keystone technology, the projectors feature motorized lens shift, focus and zoom, and come with a suite of high performance lenses that can be switched with a one-button lens release. They also offer users the ability to upgrade to more advanced network monitoring, control and display via an optional CCM-LX network module. The Christie LX505 is a 5000-lumens 3LCD projector for users in higher education, fixed installation, and houses of worship markets looking for a combination of performance, features and high brightness at an exceptional price. The long life, inorganic 3LCD panels provide an improved contrast ratio, and its 10bit image processing delivers superior gray-scale rendering and video with smooth, artifact-free
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images. The 13,000-hour maintenance free AutoFilter reduces the hassle of changing filters; an easy access top-loading lamp makes lamp changes fast and easy; and built-in networking capabilities allow for better troubleshooting. The light-colored chassis of the Christie LX505 enables it to blend in with ceiling tiles for an unobtrusive fit in most rooms. The Christie LX605 is a 6000-lumens projector designed for the Pro A/V professional seeking a new standard in 3LCD projection for medium-to large size venues. The versatile
The Christie LX605 offers easy installation and set-up, and perfect image placement in any application. The richly featured Pro A/V connectivity is perfect for professional use and the projector's black chassis helps conceal the wear and tear in demanding environments. "The LX505 and LX605 are fullfeatured, high-lumen products with exceptional price-performance," notes Christie Business Products Product Manager, Frank Anzures. "They are designed for flexibility and ease of use with the latest in LCD technology and new networking capabilities. With the added fourcorner digital keystone correction function, users have a wide range of projector positioning while still maintaining a perfectly square display."
World's First 4K HTPS TFT Panel from Epson Projector applications continue to expand. In addition to being used for business presentations, projectors are gaining wider use in the classroom, in auditoriums and at big events. Meanwhile, demand for highperformance products is expected to grow as more and more households enjoy full HD content via digital broadcasts and high definition video players. Epson announced that it has developed the world's first 4Kcompatible high-temperature polysilicon (HTPS) TFT liquid crystal panel for 3LCD projectors. Measuring 1.64 inches diagonally, the new panel supports displays with resolutions up to 4096 × 2160 pixels. With a resolution of nearly 8.85 megapixels, 4K panels offer four times the resolution of full HD (1920 × 1080), making them ideal for the high resolutions required by special applications such as industrial design,
architectural design and simulations, as well as for presentations and projecting four full HD images at the same time. Epson says they have employed the latest process and C2 Fine technologies in the new panels and developed a new, original driving method optimized for 4K resolution to achieve high-resolution projected images with "outstanding" brightness and contrast. 'C2Fine' is an original Epson technology for achieving high-quality images with high contrast by combining an 'inorganic' liquid crystal alignment layer with vertical alignment technology.
In contrast to the organic alignment layer process, the inorganic alignment technology uses inorganic material to create the surface onto which the liquid crystal molecules align. The layer thickness is controlled at the molecular level, and the alignment structure is generated with a contactless process, thus there is no problem of unevenness. Epson showed the ultrahigh resolution images including 3D when it showcased the prototype ultra-high resolution projector using the panel at the International Broadcast Equipment Exhibition (Inter BEE 2009) held at Makuhari Messe, Chiba, Japan in November.
New, Cost-effective, Green Projector from Barco Barco, a preferred partner for professional visualization, announced the launch of the RLM-W6- the the world's first three-chip DLP projector with a WUXGA (1920x1200) resolution at the price of a single-chip DLP projector. With an extremely low noise level of 32dB, a power consumption 33 per cent lower than comparable systems and a 6,000 lumens light output, it is a green, ergonomic and cost-conscious choice for boardrooms, lobbies and auditoriums. Barco's RLM-W6 premieres the superior color saturation and image stability of three-chip DLP technology in applications hitherto mostly reserved for single-chip DLP® systems. In addition to its low price, the RLMW6 offers a minimal total cost ownership due to its low energy consumption. In terms of ergonomics, its near-silent noise level is a significant improvement over competing three-chip DLP systems.
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The RLM-W6's WUXGA (1920x1200) resolution gives it the versatility to display a wide array of sources. This includes the possibility to display video content in native HD with unobtrusive banners, news tickers or subtitles, as well as full compatibility with the latest generation of laptops. The projector can be controlled through an intuitive IP-based software module, traditional control equipment or free Barco projector fleet management software. "We like to refer to our RLM-W6 as a 'three for one'-system," comments Carl Rijsbrack, Director Product and
Solutions Management at Barco, "For the price of a single-chip DLP® system, you get a three-chip DLP® projector with a better image quality and a very low noise level. This makes it a strong contender for meeting rooms, where you don't want to be interrupted by the drone of AV equipment, but its color quality also lets the RLM-W6 shine in environments such as lobbies or halls, where corporate branding has to be perfect." Barco's RLM-W6 is targeted at larger environments as well. "Its 6,000 lumens light output makes the RLMW6 suitable for auditoriums that need high-quality images at a good price," adds Rijsbrack. "Similarly, its optional rigging and stacking frames ready the projector for various types of events where resolution and environmentally-friendly operations are major considerations."
Barco's New Multi-format Video Switcher Package Image processing pioneer Barco announced the introduction of PlusPAK for the FSN Series multiformat switcher. Tailor-made for the flexibility and agility needed in the events industry, PlusPAK is a new hardware and software suite comprised of four components - a new Universal Output Card (UOC), the system's new Multiviewer (MVR), a Digital Video Effects Card (DVE) and new software capable of controlling 2.5 M/E's from the compact FSN-150 Controller. Because contemporary presentations are often more complex than single screen, single output, single format shows, PlusPAK answers that requirement with a purpose-built solution. The first component in PlusPAK is the plug-in UOC, a dual-channel Athena scaler card that enables any assigned Aux bus to output DVI, Analog or SMPTE SDI signals at any format regardless of the switcher's native resolution. Each UOC has two independent channels, and up to three can be installed for a total of six scaled outputs. With the ability to output digital and analog simultaneously, users can select from a standard list of output formats, or create custom formats with ease. In practice, the UOC enables customers to route video to projectors, monitors, servers and even the client's VHS deck - without format restriction.
the DVE interface includes a unique "shot box" that enables users to store up to 128 single-keyframe "looks," for use on air individually, or combined into creative dualkeyframe effects.
The second PlusPAK component is the plug-in MVR, a fully integrated Multiviewer that eliminates the need for multiple external monitors and the associated wiring complexity. The MVR displays up to 16 video signals (PIPs) in either single- or dual-monitor modes, and all routing is internal to the FSN1400 chassis for unrestricted access to all inputs and outputs. Multiple layouts are provided with full UMD (Under Monitor Display) and tally support, and when combined with the FSN's powerful memory registers, user's can instantly switch between layouts and source configurations with ease. The third PlusPAK component is the plug-in DVE, a two-channel 2D digital video effects card that offers full keyframe editing, dynamic PIP sizing and positioning, programmable borders and shadows, plus freeze, strobe and color effects. Up to two DVE cards can be installed, for a total of four DVE channels on line. In addition,
To complete the PlusPAK, a creative full control of the system's second M/E from the compact FSN-150 Controller. With one button, users can toggle the M/E bank between M/E 1 and M/E 2, providing full access to the system's 2.5 M/Es and five keyers. In practice, when the event calls for three independent transitioning outputs, PlusPAK delivers full M/E control and memory register integration from one compact and intuitive panel. When combined with the FSN Series' plug-in NIC (8-channel Native Input Card), UIC (2-channel Universal Input Card), PlusPAK solidifies the FSN's position as the industry's most versatile "anything in, anything out" switching system. "Our customers have asked us for a new, robust package to meet the market's need for a cost effective, multiple output presentation system," said Jed Deame, Vice-President of Image Processing for Barco. "With the versatility of the FSN multi-format platform and the power of the PlusPAK, our customers can now react quickly to any client requirement, from the simple to the complex - in a most economical manner."
EV’s Self-powered ZX1 Two-way Loudspeaker Electro-Voice has raised the bar for portable sound once again, adding to the award-winning ZX loudspeaker family with the new ZXA1 – the selfpowered version of the best-selling ZX1 compact two-way loudspeaker. The ZXA1 is powered by an 800 watt amplifier module derived from EV’s world-tour-class Tour Grade series – amplifiers with audio quality and reliability proven at the very highest levels. The ZXA1’s lightweight, super-durable moulded enclosure ensures it looks as good as it sounds – a stylish-yet-solid
compression driver complete the equation, providing a level of sonic performance previously unheard in any compact two-way loudspeaker. The key features of ZXA1 include integrated 800 watt power amplifier, biamplified design with transducer protection, EV8L 8" high-output LF
choice for a wide range of applications including live sound, mobile DJ, stage monitoring and permanent installation. The ZXA1’s professionalgrade 8" woofer and 1" titanium
transducer, DH2005 1" exit true compression driver, 90° x 50° coverage pattern, rotatable horn design, 123 dB maximum SPL, selectable high-pass filter for use with subwoofers, line and microphone inputs and built-in pole mount.
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Allen & Heath’s New Range of Products British mixer manufacturer, Allen & Heath, will be showcasinig a range of its latest products at the forthcoming Pro Light & Sound exhibition in Frankfurt. A highlight of the new product range would be the newly launched iDR-16 3U MixRack and iLive-R72 rackmountable Control Surface, which together provide a space saving, lightweight digital live mixing system, bringing the same power, sonic performance and flexibility of the larger touring iLive systems to a significantly lower price point. A & H would also launch a new club installation product, the Xone:PB. The Xone patchbay is a 1U rack size, passive interface box, designed to simplify the task of connecting encoded vinyl replay systems to installed mixers, without the need to re-patch. Also from the Xone DJ range, A & H is launching the Xone:XD40 headphones. Offering excellent audio
fidelity in a comfortable, lightweight and compact format, their closed cup design provides good isolation from ambient noise, and minimal bleed. The Xone:XD40’s have 40mm neodymium drivers, a 15Hz - 28kHz frequency response, can handle up to 1.3W of power, and at just over 200g, are lightweight for extended use. The super compact mixers from A & H – the ZED-10 and ZED-10FX mini mixers – would also make their European debut after their launch at NAMM 2010. Part of the ZED range of USB-equipped mixers for live performance, recording and production, the new additions feature two innovative ultra high impedance discrete Class A FET (Field Effect Transistor) inputs, which allow an instrument to be plugged directly into the mixer. There is also a 26dB gain boost switch, which caters for instruments with very low output pickups. The ZED-10 and 10FX can manage up to four microphones and two stereo
sources with MP3 player compatibility, provide separate 2-track record outputs and a stereo playback input for 2-track replay or interval music from a CD player, XLR main stereo outputs with inserts, comprehensive monitoring with headphones and separate monitor speaker outputs, 48V microphone phantom power, and DI level switching for sub mixing. There is also a USB send and return for PC or Mac recording, playback and effects. In addition, the ZED-10FX has a builtin FX processor with TAP tempo delay settings and a 24 bit/48kHz conversion rate. The ZED-10FX uses digital effects algorithms derived from Allen & Heath’s pro touring digital mixing system, ranging from classic reverbs and cascaded delay plus reverbs to shimmering flanger and chorus effects.
dnp Launches 120-inch Supernova Screen Danish projection screen manufacturer has launched its new high performance, retractable 120inch Supernova screen. The new Supernova Flex is perfect for boardroom, conference room and other high ambient light environments. The innovative, Supernova Flex is designed to fit discretely into any environment and is hidden from view when not in use and is available in both a wallmounted and a ceiling mounted version. "As with all Supernova front projection screens, the new 120 " Supernova Flex was developed to deliver high-contrast pictures in high ambient light environments," says senior US executive Manfred Freiberger."The Supernova Flex combines dnp's revolutionary optical technology with an innovative space saving design. The
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unique patented design of the retractable Supernova Flex is available in a wall mount configuration. There is a variety of sizes available and the wall cover can be ordered in three different finishes to blend in with any décor." Supernova Screens uses an active optical system that is made up of seven high-tech layers. The screen forms an optical "sandwich" designed to enhance the image for optimum viewing in high ambient light environments, such as found in Boardrooms and Conference rooms. Supernova Screens actively reflects projected light while absorbing and filtering out ambient room light. A special neutral black tint has been added to the screen material to produce deeper blacks, but still with vivid colours and excellent gray scale reproduction, even in brightly lit rooms. Supernova Screens meets
the image quality guidelines as set forth by the (ISF) Imaging Science Foundation. Besides the Supernova motorized Flex that rolls up the screen at a touch of a button, the Supernova Screen portfolio offers a variety of screen options and sizes from the Supernova _ Infinity, which allows you to create a large-screen display of almost unlimited size, to the Supernova _ One for smaller spaces. The Supernova _ Mobile is ideal for situations where space is at a premium and where a permanent fixture is not desirable.
Setron Appointed ASL’s India Distributor rapidly expanding and technically improving broadcast and live entertainment industries," says ASL sales and marketing director Susan McLohon.
Setron India Private Ltd has been appointed India distributor for the Dutch audio major ASL. As one of the world's leading manufacturers of intercom systems for the live performance industry, ASL Intercom is always looking at ways of improving the company's service and support to its customers across the globe. The appointment of Setron India has come into effect as part of the same policy.
Headquartered in Utrecht, the Netherlands, ASL Intercom BV was established in 1985 by current Managing Director Eric de Bruyn. Formerly a founding principal of Ampco, a highly regarded Dutch sound Susan McLohon with Setron’s managing director, Naresh Dhawan hire firm, de Bruyn formed ASL Matrixing, text messaging, person-toIntercom with the immediate goal of ASL offers two different ranges of person communication from any user building intercoms suited to the intercom products, Analogue and station, and belt packs with touchextreme demands of live entertainment/ Digital, which between them provide sensitive volume controls. broadcast production in both portable systems suitable for any venue or event and installed systems. The company has Now in its 15th year of trading and with where clear communication is crucial. since broadened into industrial and offices in New Delhi and Mumbai, The company's analogue systems have commercial applications, and now offers Setron India Private Ltd is one of the been an essential part of many live a full line of analog, digital and wireless leading importers an distributors of productions for over 20 years, and grace intercoms backed by prompt, broadcast and pro-audio equipment in many of the world's most famous personalized technical support. India. Offering turnkey solutions to a venues and festivals. More recently, the introduction of ASL's digital range has taken full advantage of the latest high speed digital communication technologies to provide systems with more configuration options, faster set-up and superior voice clarity. Exclusive features of the Digital range include Advanced Intercom
wide variety of live and broadcast audio requirements, the company focuses on bringing the very latest equipment to the Indian market. "Setron India Private Ltd is a very forward-looking company and we have been very impressed with the way that the company has embraced India's
"Setron has an excellent reputation for customer support and so, as a forwardlooking company ourselves, we believe that it is the ideal partner to help expand our interests in the region. We are sure that it will prove to be a very rewarding relationship for both companies."
NEXO Breaks Big Ground in India With the goal of setting a new benchmark for India's live production standards, the young entrepreneurs behind new sound rental company Total Production have invested in a major NEXO GEO D line array inventory. Based out of Bangalore, Total Productions got off to a very promising start with its new system. Buying the rider-friendly GEO D system helped the company to win a prestigious contract to provide sound for legendary American rock band MR. BIG on the India leg of their reunion world tour, and to beat stiff
competition to service the opening ceremony for the 2009 IWAS World Games (paralympics). Total Productions started life as an event management company,
promoting concerts, explains Head of Operations Francis Perry. "Having used most of the sound rental companies in our region over the last 15 years, we knew all the points of difference for
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the PA systems that were available. In 2003, we decided to get into the rental business ourselves, and started looking for a world-class system that would do justice to the kind of projects we were being asked to handle." Perry and his colleagues went around the world to audition various systems, ending up with a shortlist of three manufacturers. "We had technical demos, and we also attended festivals and shows: at the end of it all, there was one answer to all our questions Nexo!" Nexo's Indian distributor Sun Infonet Pvt Ltd supplied 24x GeoD10 arrayable modules, 12x CD18 subbass units, 4x NX242 TDcontrollers fitted with ES4
EtherSound cards, 8x PS15 stage monitors with controllers, and a quantity of CAMCO Vortex 6 amplifiers. Sun Infonet director Neeraj Chandra sealed the deal with a convincing demonstration of system power by another GEO D user, Delta Sound (Aizawl) in Mizoram. "GEO D delivers the three things we were looking for," says Francis Perry. "It has exceptional tonal quality; the sound is crystal-clear and transparent, yet so powerful. The pattern control is amazing: take a walk across a big field or arena, and you will find uniform dispersion which is not very common to many other loudspeakers. Nexo is rider-friendly,
GEO D is one of the most accepted systems in the world. Front-of-house engineers from India who have worked abroad are surprised and delighted to find GEO D here at home. And GEO D will ultimately give us a great return on our investment."
Chongqing Theatre’S Grand Sound very convenient for rehearsals, which this system is frequently used for."
The Chongqing Grand Theatre in Jiangbei city, China - one of the largest and modern performance venues in the Chinese mainland - had a major upgrade of its interior and audio systems. The venue comprises two theatres- one large, 1850-seat Grand Theatre and one 930-seat Medium Theatre. Both the theatres had been given a new sound reinforcement with audio systems from L-ACOUSTICS through its Chinese distributor Rightway Audio. The larger of the two spaces has been designed as a leading world-class venue capable of hosting opera, dance, drama, ballet, symphony and other large-scale variety shows, while the smaller theatre focuses on small and medium-size performances, such as dance, drama, modern drama, vocal performances, orchestral music, chamber music, folk music and so on. In the Grand Theatre, left and right arrays each encompassing 14 KIVA ultra-compact line source array cabinets with four KILO low frequency extensions have been flown on either side of the proscenium arch. An additional two L-ACOUSTICS fullfrequency 115XT HiQ cabinets have also been installed on each side of the stage for infill. Meanwhile, four SB28 high-power subwoofers can be moved around depending on the
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The Chongqing Grand Theatre was designed by GMP International Gmbh and East China Architecture Design and Research Institute, while German acoustic consultants Muller-BBM completed the architectural and room acoustics design. After winning the tender, system integrator Leifull Light and Sound Enterprises optimized the original design in collaboration with Muller-BBM.
performance. The system is powered by L-ACOUSTICS LA4 and LA8 amplified controllers. Additionally, 28 108P self-powered monitors and a dozen 112P selfpowered coaxials have been installed in the Grand Theatre, while eight 112Ps are hung around the side of the stages and from the ceiling in the Medium Theatre, for stage and auditorium sound effects such as rain and wind. A further four 112Ps combined with four SB15P subs are used for flexible sound reinforcement. "We appreciate the speed at which this system can be set up," says Danny Lau, director of Rightway Audio. "It is
A large-scale performance was held in the Grand Theatre to test all the newly installed lighting, audio and stage machinery systems. The program of entertainment was provided by the Song and Dance Troupe of Chongqing. The audio system gave an excellent performance throughout the show, which didn't go unnoticed by the end users and consultants alike. "This is the best theatre that I've participated in designing in China," says Mr. Kummel, the main designer from Muller-BBM. "Despite the effects of the architectural acoustic environment or the sound reinforcement effect of the theatre, LACOUSTICS speakers have provided the best sound for this theatre." Kummel was also full of praise for Leifull's sound system design, engineering construction, and professionalism.
Navratri Mahotsav Dazzles with DiGiCo Claimed to be the world's longest cultural festival, India's Navratri Mahotsav lasts for nine days and nights and is a colourful celebration of music, dance and worship. With up to 250,000 dancers at any one time, the production values for the nightly live performances have to be high, which is why pro audio supplier Bestt Sound System used their DiGiCo D5-112EX console at the event. Taking place in late September, Navratri Mahotsav brings the Gujarati people together to honour the Divine Shakti, which supports the entire universe and is personified as the Mother Goddess, who protects her worshippers, destroys evil and grants boons to her children. After the inaugural day, which features choreographed dance sequences, for the rest of the festival thousands of people dressed in traditional clothing dance from dusk until midnight. Each night features a major live performance, the 2009 festival including performances by renowned Indian artists including Shree Abhesinh Rathod, Shree Shyamal-Somil Munshi, Arati Munshi, Nayan Pancholi, Aisharya Majmudar, Soli and Nisha Kapadia, Sanjay Ojha and the Golden Cheers orchestra with Praful Dave. Ahmedabad-based Bestt Sound System was one of the first professional audio companies in India to embrace a no compromise digital audio technology and purchased the DiGiCo D5 in 2007, along with a DTuBe remote digital tube mic preamp module. Since then the company's DiGiCo equipment has been
used on a huge variety of events, including some of the country's leading college festivals, events for famous Bollywood musical director duo Sajid-Wajid ("who refuse to perform with any other sound system but ours," smiles Amiel) and an event in honour of Her Excellency the President of India, Smt. Pratibha Patil. Used to both provide front of house and monitor mixes, the D5 used
around 50 inputs, with the D-TuBe preamp used for vocals and tabla. As well as the main system outputs, seven auxes were used for wedge monitors, with two for sidefills, four for effects "Navratri Mahotsav provided the biggest audience at any one venue where we have used the D5. 250,000 people dancing to the music is no mean achievement, but the D5's clarity, sonic purity and reproduction of the quality of the natural textures of the male and female vocalists were extraordinary," says Amiel Best, owner of Bestt Sound System. "The tap delay and awesome reverb also added to the beauty of the performance." But the advantages of using the D5 are perhaps best summed up by the story of a different event. "At most of the events we service, until the fibre optic multicore is securely laid, we use an ordinary analogue board to line check and sometimes play tracks for rehearsal sessions," says Amiel. "One evening the lighting designer, choreographer and performers had a dinner break between a vigorous practice session and the final rehearsal. While they were at dinner, our team had finished laying the fibre optic multicore and the analogue console was swapped out for the D5. "When final practice began and the first notes of the track rang out, the lighting designer jumped up and exclaimed 'my goodness! What have you done to the sound? The track sounds incredible, I can't believe its the same one!'"
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DiGiCo SD8 Rides into Jodhpur Famed for its sunny weather, indigotinged houses and tourist attractions including palaces, temples and the Mehrangarh Fort, the Indian city of Jodhpur now has another claim to fame - it is home to the first DiGiCo SD8 digital mixing console in the country. Sold by DiGiCo's Indian distributor, Mumbai-based Rivera International to local production company Rajan Amplifiers, the SD8 is part of a system which includes a large JBL and DAS loudspeaker system, with Crown and Lab.gruppen amplifiers. "We had looked at a number of digital consoles and we were keen to go with a different one, but Rivera International were very persistent," smiles Rajan Amplifiers owner Rajan Panwar. "We purchase all our high-end gear from them and have always been completely happy with their equipment suggestions. Their advice was to try the SD8 and so we agreed to give it a shot."
Rajan Panwar (Rajan Amplifiers), Allwyn Ferns (Rivera) and Anil
Naresh (Engineer) and Mr Ranjan Panwar (Rajan Amplifiers)
was a totally new way for us to work, but at the same time it has a real 'analogue feel', which is unlike any other digital board."
Naresh (Engineer) and Allwyn Ferns (Rivera)
Having fully investigated the SD8, it wasn't long before Panwar was fully convinced that the DiGiCo console was absolutely the right choice. "It is simply a mind blowing console," he says. "The sound quality is excellent, it's simple to hook up, has superb headroom, smart features ‌ it
He continues, "It also has great effects. There is an extremely precise and effective compressor/limiter on board, while the floating point effects are simply awesome!" Another bonus for Rajan Amplifier has been how easy the SD8 is to learn. "The SD8 is very user friendly and quick to navigate," Mr Panwar adds. "Rivera's engineer Allwyn Ferns came in to train us on the console and it took barely two days of training for us to be up to speed. We have found it very easy to handle."
E&E Powers Church of St. Bennadete Since 1999, the Church of St. Bernadette on Zion Road, Singapore has been undergoing renovation works to meet the increasing demands of its 2800 - and growing - parishioners. Its committees in-charge of the church renovation and fund raising have been busy planning and executing the redevelopment of the church in the past ten years with the refurbishment of Parish Centre, which houses the audiovisual rooms, classrooms for Sunday charismatic school, offices, gift shop and meeting rooms. The renovation also included the conversion of the priest house into a prayer room, which houses the Blessed Host The church was opened recently with a brand new sound reinforcement system supplied and installed by Electronics & Engineering Pte Ltd (E&E). Designed around Harman Pro
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products, E&E suspended 6 numbers of white JBL AM 4212 loudspeakers at the main sanctuary, all powered by 3 Crown XTi amplifiers. Two numbers of dbx ZC-1 signal processing in an equipment rack provides operators the digital processing, equalization and automatic feedback suppression for best sound quality and automation during masses. Eight pieces of white JBL Control 25AV speakers were lined up underneath the choir loft to ensure even sound distribution of the spoken word. Two Crown XLS power amplifiers drive the sound through the speakers. Two numbers of Shure SCM810E 8channel automatic mic mixer takes care of the all the microphone mixing without the need for a technician or operator, a specific requirement of the Church committee to ensure
JBL Control 25AV speakers lined up underneath the choir loft.
consistency in the sound quality and mixing. The monitor systems in the altar for the priests and on the balcony for the choir are comprised of JBL MRX speakers powered by Crown XTis. dbx IEQ-31, racked inside the control room, takes care of the equalization for optimum performance. Shure SLX wireless and MX 202 lavalier microphones were also supplied.
Pallas Theatre Comes Alive with Meyer Sound When Athens's Pallas Theatre was built in 1926, it quickly became a popular cosmopolitan destination for Athenian socialites, replacing the royal horse stables that were representative of this oldest city in Europe. With its regular jazz music and other eclectic performances, the Pallas Theatre paved the way for an influx of cafes, restaurants, and other gathering places, transforming the city's Voukourestiou Street district into a cultural hub. Many decades later, Athens received a much needed revitalization, and the Pallas Theatre also received a full-scale cosmetic makeover, as well as a sound system based on the Meyer Sound M'elodie line array loudspeaker. To equip the 1,500-seat Pallas Theatre with an audio system on par with its exquisite architecture, Athens-based audio firm Omikron Control enlisted a complete overhaul of the existing system. Sound designer Vangelis Petridis knew such a job would be anything but straightforward. "The space is mainly used for theatrical performances and musicals, but they also do plenty of classical music presentations, a little jazz, some cinema, and corporate events and
levels for the balcony and other areas," says Petridis. For the theatre's cinematic presentations, a 5.1 surround sound system was later added. "The theatre managers loved the new main system," says Petridis. "They didn't even discuss any alternative options when it came time for the surround system. It just had to be Meyer Sound."
ceremonies, making it a truly multipurpose venue," says Petridis. "This required an easily adjustable system, but they also wanted us to install the system out of the audience's view."
As a result, one more array of nine M'elodie loudspeakers was installed as a center cluster, with rear left and right surround arrays of ten UPJ-1P loudspeakers each. An additional independent Galileo controls the extra zones.
Petridis decided on flown left and right arrays each consisting of nine self-powered M'elodie loudspeakers, concealed within the proscenium, while three 600-HP subwoofers are mounted on top of each array. Stage monitoring is handled by one USM-1P stage monitor, one CQ-1 loudspeaker, and one UPA-1P loudspeaker per side, with a Galileo loudspeaker management system controlling all processing. "The Galileo was an easy choice, as it provides so many different abilities, including the different sound
The decision to purchase Meyer Sound components for the venue came easily for Omikron. "When we think of Meyer Sound, the first thing that comes to mind is quality. The sound quality is exceptional. The materials used are meticulously chosen. And the construction is outstanding," says Petridis. "We've provided sound locally for years now, and we choose Meyer because they are one of the top companies, if not the top in their field. Using their products gives us quite an advantage over our competitors."
APMG to Market Versonic Solutions Singapore-based Versonic has appointed Asia Pacific Media Group to manage the sales and marketing of their new audio mixing concept. Versonic have spent the last two years developing an innovative technology, which challenges existing ways of working in the audio-visual industry, and are now ready to launch the new concept, recently christened 'Prodigy'. Asia Pacific Media Group will manage Prodigy's debut to distributors and will drive the sales management in these early stages. "It's an exciting time for the audio industry to have a radically different technology that challenges the status quo and traditional ways of working,"
says Ken Tovich of APMG. "We're looking forward to introducing it to key players across Asia Pacific and we anticipate an overwhelming response when they see the simplicity of Prodigy in action." Prodigy is a unique audio mixing concept developed by a team of designers, headed by Jim Miller, exEuphonix. Miller's vision was to allow untrained and less experienced individuals involved in live event performances to deliver high quality audio output by allowing them to concentrate on the final mix itself, rather than getting bogged down by using often more complex audio mixing desks.
"Our vision was to create an audio mixing console that was clear and intuitive in its design; easy enough in fact, that someone who has never managed the sound at a live event before, could use it," Miller explains. "By having this as our precept, Prodigy opens the doors to a new group of people who run live events but who have not necessarily been trained as audio engineers." In advance of Prodigy's official launch, first rounds of introductions are being made to the industry professionals. Prodigy is expected to be ready by the end of 2009 just in time for NAMM and Musikmesse shows in 2010.
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TiMax 3D Sound for Matter's Birthday Fete As Carl Cox wowed the gathered revellers during his five-hour RoomOne set at Matter London's first birthday party this Autumn, he made the most of the unique 3D room sound effects created by a TiMax audio delay matrix and triggered live via an M Audio Oxygen8 MIDI keyboard. TiMax is intrinsic to the sound system design in the Thameside superclub and is the key to the 'tight' but spatial soundfield achieved in the very large and industrial, high-ceilinged RoomOne space. TiMax operates in two standard modes: one to optimise the DJ club night sound experience and the second to emphasise the stage focus for live band performance. Subtle or extreme sound movement effects, such as mix elements spinning
Carl Cox using TiMax – the monitor shows the TiMax configuration through the speaker set up
or zig-zagging around the room in different directions, are triggered in TiMax by the DJ using the MIDI keyboard. Always keen to assure his crowd of an ever-unique set, Cox incorporated these effects into Matter's landmark birthday session. Matter's head of sound, Roberto Pieroni, easily demonstrated the simplicity of the MIDI interface for driving TiMax as a creative
performance tool. "I showed Carl the effects he could use and he loved it! He experimented a while and brought the effects into his set with amazing results - he really enjoyed it!" It's perhaps further testament both to the artists and also to Matter's groundbreaking immersive club environment that this ended up being a record night in terms crowd numbers and revenues.
DiGiCo Chosen for Ramazzotti Italian pop star and Sony BMG recording artist Eros Ramazzotti recently embarked on the first European leg of his 'Ali e Radici' (Wings and Roots) world tour, an impressive 10-truck production trekking around 23 European nations' indoor arenas before South American dates, a series of European open-air summer shows, then off to the US and Australia. Audio and lighting on the show's huge AV setup was supplied by top Italian rental firm AgorĂ , and included three of the L'Aquila-based company's large stock of DiGiCo consoles: two SD7s and a D5. Produced by Trident Management in collaboration with Live Nation Italia, the show features a production design by Lemon and Pepper, the creative and technical team that has worked with many of the world's top stars, as well as on previous shows by the Rome-born singer. The system is set up so that from the analogue splitters on stage, the audio signals are fed to two DiGiRacks for FOH and two more for the monitors, so each has a completely independent signal path. As well as the nine-piece
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explains, "I have quite a simple setup on this show, as the band members all use in ear monitors and the drummer and keyboard player each have a subwoofer for added punch at the bottom end. They are all highly experienced musicians, which also makes my job a lot easier." band, additional signals for sequences, click tracks and SMPTE for video sync bring the input channel total to around 70. Under the huge stage, Stevan Martinovic and Umberto Polidori man two DiGiCo monitor consoles. Polidori uses a D5 for the band and Martinovic an SD7, entirely dedicated to the artist's impressive monitor set-up, which is a combination of IEM, large side hangs, subs under a stage-centre grill and four wedges out front. Polidori has worked with other digital consoles in the past, but found the D5 the most versatile, after using it on events such as the huge show by top Italian band Negramaro at Milan's San Siro soccer stadium. He
Maritinovic had already had the opportunity of making in-depth use of the SD7, putting it through its paces on some high profile events, such as the 2008 Verona Arena shows by Ligabue and a symphony orchestra, and a huge live show televised from Rimini, on which he had 168 channels to handle. Regarding the SD7, he enthused: "It is a great console - fast and practical, an ideal desk for monitor work and it seems to me to have a lot more dynamics, thanks to the system's processors. I make wide use of features such as the multi-band compressors. This software version the Mach 2 - has a lot of other features and great potential, which I'm studying to put to good use on future projects."
XL Video Wins Prestigious Parnelli Award In front of a capacity crowd at the sold-out 2009 Parnelli Awards in Orlando, Florida XL Video was announced as the winner of the Video Rental Company of the Year Award. RenĂŠ de Keyzer, CEO of the XL Video Group and Phil Mercer, Managing Director of XL Video LA, accepted the prestigious award. Also on hand to celebrate was XL Video's President Marcel de Keyzer and Jo Beirne of XL Video UK.
individuals and companies. Subscribers to PLSN and FOH magazines vote for the nominations and the winners, so the Parnelli's are truly a recognition by industry peers. XL Video, kicked off the year off in February by being voted the Favourite Video Services Company at the 2009 TPi Awards. A busy touring year has followed, working with - among others Coldplay, Depeche Mode, JayZ; Johnny Hallyday, Pink, Staind, Take That and U2.
Since 2001, the Parnelli Awards, presented by Projection, Lights & Staging Also honoured at the Parnelli Phil Mercer (L) and Jo Beirne (centre) from XL Video accepting their News (PLSN) and Front of Awards was Stefaan 'Smasher' Parnelli Award House (FOH) magazines has Desmedt who picked up the honoured the highest achievers and manager Rick "Parnelli" O'Brien, Video Director of the Year Award. most admired innovators in the live recognise pioneering, influential Desmedt, whose most recent project event industry. The awards, named professionals and their contributions was the U2 360° tour, works regularly after the late production and touring to the industry, honouring both with XL Video.
Robe Wins PLASA Innovation Award Robe's amazing new ROBIN 300 Plasma series fixtures won a coveted PLASA Innovation Award. Over 60 products were nominated and evaluated by a panel of independent judges, with eight receiving Innovation Awards. These were presented by the Shadow Minister for Innovation, Universities and Skills, Adam Afriyie MP, on the second day of the exhibition.
von den Stemmen comments, "This underlines our current strategy of dedicating time, thought and energy into developing products utilising new and more sustainable technologies. It also shows that people are observing and realising that we are preparing for the future". The ROBIN 300 Plasma Spot was the first in a unique and new era of plasma lamp based fixtures from Robe. Features include a perfect colour rendering index of 94, an extremely flat and even light beam (1.3 : 1) and a lifespan of 10,000 hours. All these fantastic features exist thanks to the brand new plasma lamp light source which is now being introduced to the market.
Photo shows L - R, Robe's International Business Development Manager Harry von den Stemmen, Adam Afriyie MP and Robe's MD Josef Valchar
The judges' comments on the ROBIN 300 Plasma series included "the opportunity to deploy new technology in the form of the PLASMA lamp has led Robe to perform a ground-up rethink and redesign of the traditional moving light. The result is a fixture that impressed us with its quality of light, low power of operation and rich list of features". Robe's MD Josef Valchar states, "we're absolutely delighted! This is a real recognition of the 15 years of constant R 'n' D that Robe has invested in developing new technologies and in bringing innovative products to the
market. We are extremely proud to be the first in the world to offer lighting and visual designers the massive advantages of plasma lamp technology". Robe's ROBIN 300 Plasma Spot and Wash fixtures are fully in production and are being specified and used for numerous different projects worldwide. For the Robe team - who also enjoyed a fantastically busy PLASA show winning the Award was the 'icing on the cake' of a really positive exhibition. It is the first PLASA Innovation Award that Robe has won, and International business development Manager Harry
The new ROBIN 300 Plasma Wash is the ideal creative partner for Robe's ROBIN 300 Plasma Spot. Robe's plasma lightsource revolution continues with this latest addition to the new generation of ROBIN fixtures, harnessing the power and sustainability of the LIFI ENT 31-02 plasma source.
Meyer Sound Wins TEC 2009 Award Meyer Sound's self-powered UPQ-1P wide coverage loudspeaker has won the 25th Annual Technical Excellence and Creativity (TEC) Award in the Sound Reinforcement Loudspeaker Technology category. The awards were announced at the 127th Audio Engineering Society (AES) Convention in New York City on October 10, 2009. The TEC Award is one in a string of accolades acknowledging the UPQ-1P, including the Musikmesse International Press Award (MIPA) and Live Design's Sound Product of the Year. This is also Meyer Sound's seventh TEC award, following the 2008 TEC Award bestowed on the company's UPJunior VariO loudspeaker. "From its flexible rigging to wellbehaved coverage pattern and
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will continue to work closely with the industry to develop new audio solutions."
superior sonic quality, the UPQ is designed to offer versatility in touring, rental, and fixed installations," says Pablo Espinosa, VP of Research and Development at Meyer Sound. "We put a lot of engineering efforts into giving our customers an advantage with quality tools for use in different applications and for many years. We are pleased with the recognition and
The UPQ-1P delivers a peak SPL of 136 dB combined with low-distortion performance, flexible rigging options, and wide, uniform 80x50-degree coverage. System designers have found these features useful for creating highperformance sound systems in applications such as the "Star Wars: In Concert" tour and "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon," as well as installations in the Texan Dome at South Plain College, Baby'O Club in Mexico, Theater De Voorveghter, Theater De Naald, and Theater De Tamboer in the Netherlands, France's Le Glaz'art music venue, Las Vegas's Mirage Volcano spectacle, and California Academy of Sciences' Hearst Forum.
Altinex's New CP500-110 Mini-Controller Altinex, a leading manufacturer of Modular AV Solutions, announced the introduction of the company's all-new Neutron Series controller line: the CP500110 Mini-Controller. Designed expressly for extending the capabilities of the company's highly regarded MultiTouch line of touch panels, the Neutron CP500110 Mini-Controller is ideal for use in a wide variety of installations, including boardrooms, presentation spaces, lecture halls, residential control systems, and operations centers. Providing multi-point device control from a compact Ethernet-based unit, the new Altinex Neutron CP500-110 Mini-Controller re-defines value. This unassuming shelf mount unit supports multiple Altinex MultiTouch touch panels and provides control of up to two RS-232 devices, two IR (infrared) devices, two Relay-based devices, and two Sensor inputs - making it the ideal solution for controlling projectors and
setting that can be used to determine if a sensor has been "tripped" or "activated" based on movement, occupancy, etc. - depending on the sensor type. LCD/Plasma display panels, lighting, motorized equipment such as drapes or drop-down screens, and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems. The Altinex Neutron CP500-110 MiniController offers a 12V DC power terminal block, an RJ-45 Ethernet port and four 5-pin terminal blocks - one each for the Sensor inputs, the two Relay-based devices, the two RS-232 devices, and IR control. The Neutron Mini Controller is designed to work with a wide variety of sensors, including motion sensors, IR detectors, and RF detectors. The two Sensor inputs accept sensor output voltages up to 24 VDC and each sensor input has an independent trigger level
The Neutron Mini Controller's two relays can be used to control external devices such as a projector screen. Similarly, these relays can also be used to route power to low power DC devices. The Neutron Mini Controller's two bi-directional RS 232 COM ports are able to communicate with virtually any serial device such as computers and control systems. Each port can be individually set with different baud rates, parity, stop bits, and data bits enabling a control application to operate different devices from a single remote location through the TCP connection via Ethernet. Two LED indicators on the rear of the controller show Ethernet activity and verify that the RS-232 has been wired properly.
Beyerdynamic Opus 600 Wireless System The Opus 600 wireless system is recommended small installations (hotels, sports halls, churches etc.). It meets all technology and transmission quality requirements while still being very reasonably priced. The Opus 600 wireless system is equipped with the automatic frequency setting function, has 16 pre-programmed UHF frequency settings and can be operated with up to 12 channels per
frequency range (depending on environment and specifi c national regulations), simultaneously and with no interference. The latest truediversity technology, pilot signal detection and adjustable squelch ensure reliable transmission and noisefree reception. The flexible interchangeable capsule system on the handheld transmit-ter offers a multitude of possible applications. Two different receivers, two transmitters and three interchangeable capsules are available in the Opus 600 series. Alternatively, fi ve different complete sets, which all offer true "beyerdynamic sound", are available. The Opus 600 system is available in the frequency ranges 506-530 MHz, 668692 MHz, 774-798 MHz, 790-814 MHz, and 841-865 MHz. Please refer to country depending regulations. Small but mighty - new Microphones with Revoluto Technology MPR 210 /211 The new, elegant design of the MPR
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210 and MPR 211 Revoluto microphones is very compact. The microphones can be connected to a mixing console, mixing amplifi er or DSP matrix. The MPR 210 is a pure desktop microphone while the MPR 211 microphone unit provides a programmable microphone button and connections for an external logical control. The Revoluto Technology Compared to a gooseneck microphone, the microphone units with the patented Revoluto technology provide in most applications a corridor characteristic and more comfort while speaking. There is no need to adjust a gooseneck microphone and the voice range is much wider. Whether you lean backwards, stand up or turn your head, the quality of the intelligibility always remains the same with Revoluto. Revoluto Wireless - Experience Freedom Experience a new freedom with the new microphone units of the MCW-D 50 conference system in an elegant design with the integrated and patented Revoluto technology. Now participants can lean back on their chair, turn their head or even stand up during the meeting. The integrated microphone array provides the active speaker with freedom, while the operating time is more than 30 hours with the usual beyerdynamic audio quality. Due to a number of sophisticated details the microphone units allow easy servicing. As there are no movable parts, there are no mechanical wear and tear parts. Should the rechargeable batteries become weaker after several years of use, the integrated battery compartment allows easy access when needed. The microphone units with the integrated intelligent charging electronics are recharged in the handy CC 13 transport and charging case within 3.5 hours and can be used everywhere at any time.
Revoluto Wireless Components: MCW-D 531 - Delegate microphone unit with microphone button and two-
way loudspeaker system MCW-D 533 Chairman microphone unit with microphone button, prior and clear button and two-way loudspeaker system MCW-D 50 - Control unit CC 13 - Charging and transport case for 12 microphone units CD 13 - Charging unit for 12 microphone units. MPR 911 Revoluto built-in Microphone Unit with connector panel The beyerdynamic built-in microphone unit combines furniture and technology to provide new solutions for the conference market. The microphone unit with Revoluto technology in a fold-away design is mounted in a table and can be lifted up when needed. The precious Nextel 速 fi nish in "dark black" blends into table tops of different materials. The built-in MPR 911 microphone unit with programmable microphone button and connections for external remote/logic control is the latest product of this series. In addition to the classic functions of an installation microphone, the microphone unit provides passive interfaces to connect a laptop to a local network and / or a VGA video signal. Modular connector panel with Revoluto built-in microphone units In future the connector panels of the built-in MCS-D 3911 / 3913 / 3971 / 3973 and MPR 911 Revoluto microphone units will provide a modular power outlet to match adapters of different countries. The connector panel also features a new audio input (mini stereo jack, 3.5 mm) for audio presentations.
Crestron's New Media Presentation Controller The Crestron MPC family of AV room controllers delivers the most simple, cost-effective routing and control solution on the market today. Perfect for small classroom and meeting room applications, the new 10-button MPC-M5 features a built-in 2-Series control system and fits onto a standard 2-gang electrical box with space to accommodate all wiring and connections. Seamless integration with Crestron RoomView速 software via Ethernet enables IT/AV managers to remotely monitor, manage and control every room on the network, and SSL encryption provides a totally secure network connection at all times, preventing unauthorized access to the system. A fully-programmable user interface, the MPC-M5 is available in black or white, and features an attractive and intuitive layout of 10 pushbuttons with corresponding LED feedback, customizable backlit labeling, and wireless remote capability. It can be programmed for any function, including system power, input source selection, transport control, volume adjustment, and lighting presets. Like all MPC models, the MPC-M5 mounts in a wall or podium. Through its onboard control ports, the MPC-M5 interfaces directly with the video display or projector, DVD player or TV receiver, projection screen, lift, occupancy sensor, and other room devices. In addition to high-speed Ethernet, there is a bidirectional RS-232 COM port, an IR/ serial port, two relays, and two input ports right on the rear panel. MPCM5 is powered via PoE (Power-overEthernet), requiring just one wire for operation. The MPC line is easy for instructors to learn and use, and equally important, can be implemented consistently in every room, lecture hall or auditorium. The MPC-M5 communicates directly with Crestron's exclusive RoomView help
system, simplifying installation and significantly reducing cost. Inputs for occupancy sensors allow the 4SM to identify the room as 'occupied' or 'available' and adjust the network calendar accordingly, maximizing efficient and appropriate use of these valuable meeting spaces. To function just like any other Crestron touchpanel, the 4SM also has a 'Touchpanel Mode' that enables connection to a control system via Ethernet to support custom applications. desk software, the industry's most comprehensive facility-wide solution for remote monitoring and asset management. Built-in SNMP support also enables integration with thirdparty network management software, allowing full control and monitoring from the IT Help Desk or NOC in a format that's familiar to IT personnel. New Touchpanel from Crestron: Crestron introduced the TPMC-4SM, a stylish, low profile 4-inch touchpanel that is ideal for mounting just outside a room's entrance to view calendars, reserve rooms, and detect room status for impromptu meetings. In 'Room Scheduling Mode,' the 4SM communicates directly with Crestron RoomView Server Edition, enabling users to view the status of any room on the network and book space for immediately or future use, right from the touchpanel. High-speed Ethernet communications with PoE (Power over Ethernet) delivers a single-wire solution for easy network integration. 'Room Scheduling Mode' does not require programming or a control
The 4SM is designed for easy surface mount installation on a wall, lectern or similar flat surface using a single-gang wall box. A multi-surface mount kit enables attachment to glass or brick, and includes a paintable raceway for hiding wire. Another mounting option is a tabletop base in a sleek new form factor. The engravable bezel is available in smooth black or white, with or without 10 backlit buttons. To provide room status feedback that is visible from a distance, the buttons will glow red or green to indicate occupied/unoccupied. Other capabilities of this widescreen, colour touchscreen display include high performance graphics, streaming audio and video, 2-way IP intercom, WAV file feedback, and a proximity sensor that activates the panel upon approach. For corporations and educational institutions, conference rooms are assets that must be managed efficiently. The Crestron TPMC-4SM offers a flexible solution that helps ensure rooms with different capabilities and capacities are allocated appropriately and scheduled rooms are either used or quickly made available. Additionally, RoomView usage reports provide critical information, enabling facility managers to evaluate building, energy consumption and space planning and make significant, costsaving decisions.
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New Sub Woofer, Software from Nexo Leading developer of sub-bass designs for the professional sector NEXO will debut a new 2x 18’’ at the forthcoming ProLight+Sound show. The event will also see the international debut of NEXOSoft, an all-new release of system management software for NEXO systems from GEO to PS Series. Since its launch 15 months ago, NEXO’s Ray Sub technology has set new standards in versatility for subwoofers, re-igniting the cardioid/omnidirectional debate while proving equally successful in both touring and fixed installations. In Frankfurt, the company will release the next generation of RS technology – the new 2x 18" sub, the RS18.
(2x1750W to 2 x 4000/8Ù) in Omni mode, and 140– 143dBPeak (2x1750W to 2 x 4000/8Ù) in Directional mode. Suitable for use with virtually all NEXO loudspeakers, RS18 is a super-flexible performer especially in installations where space is at a premium. NEXO has further refined its offering, by producing carpet-covered and/or painted versions for different applications.
With a frequency response of 31Hz100Hz, the RS18 is a compact sub that performs equally ably in both directional and omni-directional modes, offering impressive output figures such as 143–146dBPeak
With a view to making the new launches much more clear and convincing for the indsutry, NEXO has decided to create a demo room on its stand at the ProLight+Sound event. The company believes this will help visitors appreciate fully the new PS R2 Series loudspeakers, as well as the Ray Sub bass units.
New DA15 Cardioid Earset Microphone from Hosa Hosa Technology, a leading innovator of analog and digital connectivity solutions for the modern musician and A/V professional, and distributor of Da-Cappo Micro Microphones throughout the Americas, announced the introduction of the Da-Cappo DA15 Cardioid Earset Microphone with Earbud Monitor. By combining a discreet earset microphone with an inear monitor, the new Da-Cappo DA15 provides comfort and freedom of movement for onstage performers and production staff alike. The capsule found in the new DA15 incorporates a sensitivity rating of -51 dB and a maximum SPL rating of 130 dB-making it well-suited for vocal performers who routinely find themselves in loud performance surroundings. This high-performance, back-electret condenser microphone provides excellent off-axis rejection by using a front-facing capsule engineered to be positioned at the corner of the performer's mouth. As the microphone's cardioid polar
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lightweight - making the DA15 an ideal microphone/in-ear monitoring system that can be worn comfortably for hours.
pattern offers maximum rejection at the rear of the capsule, the new DA15 provides superior isolation from surrounding noise. Integrated into the DA15's ear cushion is the earbud monitor. This highquality, dual-driver earbud offers a full-range frequency response of 20 Hz-20 kHz with a sensitivity rating of 102 dB - making this monitor capable of handling high in-ear levels. With the earbud monitor's ability to function equally well for both performance monitoring and IFB (interruptible feedback), the new DA15 is equally at home on the music stage or in the TV newsroom. The earbud is truly discreet and
The new DA15, like other Da-Cappo headset microphone systems, features a hypoallergenic ear cushion that is designed for long wearing-comfort. This cushion conceals a flexible, sprung-steel mechanism that may easily be adjusted to fit ears of all sizes. Further, the DA15 features the same adjustable microphone boom enabling one to adjust the microphone to find that "perfect fit." Da-Cappo's new DA15 Cardioid Earset Microphone with Earbud Monitor arrives as a comprehensive package. The system includes a 4-foot carbon Kevlar microphone cable (compact screw to same), a 4-foot carbon Kevlar earbud cable (compact screw to 3.5 mm TRS), a single-cable clip for affixing the microphone and earbud monitor cables to one's clothing, and a lowdensity pop filter - all of which is stored in the included leatherette case.
Crestron's New In-Wall iPod Docking Station The Crestron CEN-IDOCV-DSW combines the CEN-IDOCV Interface for Apple iPod functionality and its tabletop dock into a single, stylish 6" x 4" in-wall unit. Just like the recently released CEN-IDOCV, the DSW provides audio, video, USB, and highspeed Ethernet connectivity to seamlessly integrate iTunesÂŽ audio and video with a Crestron whole house AV system; features Crestron exclusive USB-over-Ethernet technology to remotely synchronize the iPod with any networked computer running Apple iTunes, and uses 2-way communication to reproduce the iPod experience on Crestron touchpanels. PoE compatible, the DSW draws power through the LAN wiring and eliminates the need for a nearby outlet. Using a choice of two optional mounting kits, the CEN-IDOCV-DSW is designed for easy recess-mount installation in walls - perfect for new construction, renovations and retrofits - adding stylish, practical home entertainment to any interior design. The LOCAL button on the front of the DSW enables navigation directly on the iPod device without undocking, and convenient volume control is achieved by using the VOL rocker button, eliminating the need to have a touchpanel or keypad nearby. Syncing the iPod to iTunes works the same as if it were directly connected to a computer with the Apple USB cable, affording full capabilities for organizing and transferring music and video files, podcasts, audio books, and playlists. "Now users have the option to choose a tabletop docking station for the home office and an in-wall in the kitchen, for example," said Vincent Bruno, Crestron Director of Marketing. "You can enjoy your entire personal media collection anywhere in the house and on any Crestron touchpanel, just by placing your iPod in the most convenient docking station."
The personal iPod docking and undocking provided by the IDOCV and DSW are ideal for family members on the go. It is also a perfect complement to the Crestron iServer™, which uses an iPod as a dedicated audio server always available for whole house entertainment.
late model iPod devices. The supplied docking station charges and remotely syncs the iPod with iTunes as if it were directly connected to a computer with the Apple USB cable, delivering full capabilities for organizing and transferring music and video files, podcasts, audio books, and playlists.
The CEN-IDOCV and CEN-IDOCV-DSW are the latest interfaces for iPod from Crestron, replacing the original CENIDOC.
The personal iPod docking and undocking provided by CEN-IDOCV is ideal for family members on the go, and a perfect complement to the Crestron iServer, which uses the iPod as a dedicated whole house audio server that is always available for whole house entertainment.
The New iPod Controller:
Prodigy Home Control:
The new Crestron CEN-IDOCV is the next generation interface and control solution for the popular iPod personal media player. It seamlessly integrates iTunes audio and video with a Crestron whole house AV system, using 2-way communication to reproduce the iPod experience on Crestron touchpanels. With Crestron exclusive USB over Ethernet technology, the CEN-IDOCV synchronizes the iPod with any networked computer running Apple iTunes. The IDOCV is PoE compatible, drawing power through the LAN wiring and eliminating the need for a nearby outlet. Just plug the iPod into the docking station to experience your entire personal media collection throughout the house and on any Crestron video touchpanel. The CEN-IDOCV uses the latest Apple authentication chip, enabling high speed browsing and compatibility with the latest Apple products and features, including sixth generation and newer iPod classic models as well as additional
Prodigy is a new line of home control products from Crestron, the market leader in home entertainment and automation systems. Prodigy is a simple to install, easy to use, and exceptionally affordable solution that does not require any special wiring, programming or expensive custom installation. Prodigy home automation solutions include home theater, audio distribution, lighting and climate control. Backed by Crestron quality, expertise and support, Prodigy is inexpensive control without compromise. Crestron is installed in more homes worldwide than any other brand, and brings years of experience and success to this latest line of home technology. Prodigy is a very simple and affordable residential solution, delivering the power, flexibility and reliability of Crestron to more people and more homes than ever before. According to Vincent Bruno, Crestron Director of Marketing, "Prodigy gives our dealers the opportunity to expand their market to provide home control for every lifestyle and budget. It's the most affordable and reliable home automation solution on the market today."
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Prodigy is scalable, so the system can easily grow at any time. Start with a simple home theater today; then add whole house audio, lighting and climate control, even remote control from laptops and mobile devices. Control interfaces include
touchpanels, handheld controllers, wireless keypads, and remote access via iPhone and laptop. Prodigy is easy to setup. There's no system design, no wiring and no expensive installation. Prodigy Composer guides you through a few simple steps
using basic drop down menus and check boxes. The software provides all the logic and creates touchscreen interfaces automatically in the background. The wizard is intuitive so anyone can get a system up and running in minutes without any training.
New RME M-series Converters Hits Market RME's comprehensive MADI line is now extended by hi-class multichannel converters with 16 and 32 channels. The M-series converters have been conceived and optimized for professional studio, stage, and broadcast applications. Packed into only 2U height the M-32 AD offers a 32-channel ADconversion to MADI and ADAT in reference quality. The fully symmetrical analog circuit design guarantees excellent S/N and THD specs across a wide analog level range. Using up-to-date converter technology, the device not only works up to 192 kHz, but also reaches a real-world signal-to-noise ratio of 116 dBA - on all channels. Further features are analog limiters for an efficient protection of the analog inouts against overload, three hardware reference levels up to +24 dBu, MADI and ADAT I/O, analog inputs via 6.3mm TRS and D-sub connectors, remote control via MIDI and MIDI over MADI, and operation across a wide range of mains voltages. Nearly identical features are found in the M-32 DA, which offers a 32channel high-end DA conversion. It is easy to operate despite having a comprehensive feature set. The unit combines excellent analog circuit design with the latest converter chips and RME's superior SteadyClock into a state-of-the-art DA conversion, with outstanding THD and S/N specs of up to 118 dBA. Both converters are also available as 16-channel versions. Except for the reduced channel count M-16 AD and M-16 DA are identical to their bigger brothers.
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M-series converters have optical and coaxial MADI I/Os for fail safe redundancy operation. The MADI input serves not only as optional external clock source, but also passes unused channels through to the output. This way the signals of multiple units can be
combined serially into one MADI stream of up to 64 channels. Thus RME's new M-series is an unsurpassed flexible base for the realization of multichannel setups. Combinations of the M-16 and M-32 converters allow setups with 16, 32, 48, or 64 channels, according to your individual application or budget. Up to four M-16 AD/DA and up to two M-32 AD/DA can be connected in series via MADI. Included ADAT ports make the Mseries not only first choice with MADI, but also a perfect solution for all other units having ADAT interfaces.
TASCAM's New Multi-channel Interface TASCAM's premiere multi-channel interface is the US-2000, a 16 in/4 out USB interface that fits in only one rackspace. The US-2000 has eight XLR mic inputs with phantom power, enough to record a large band or drumset. An additional six balanced 1/4" line inputs are provided for synths, amp modelers and effects processors. Stereo S/PDIF digital inputs and outputs bring the total to 16 inputs that can be recorded simultaneously. The US-2000 transmits your instruments at up to 96kHz/24-bit audio quality over a high-speed USB 2.0 connection to your computer. To keep track of all of your inputs and outputs, the US2000 has a meter bridge made up of 100 LEDs. Connections are hidden on the rear panel, except for a pair of combo jacks on the front for easy access.
Included with the US-2000 is a copy of Cubase LE4 from Steinberg. This fullfeatured recording software captures up to 48 tracks of audio with another 64 MIDI tracks. You can edit your tracks to perfection using a variety of modes and tools. Automated mixing is included to create the perfect master. Cubase LE4 supports VST effect and instrument plug-ins, which an assortment included with the application. TASCAM's copy of Cubase LE4 can record 16 channels at a time so you can take advantage of all the inputs on the US-2000. TASCAM's high-quality audio interface takes advantage of the latest USB technology to provide such high channel count over USB 2.0. Step up to the ultimate in compact, great sounding interfacing with the US-2000.
New Portable Digital Recorder from TASCAM TASCAM's DR-2d Portable Digital Recorder brings high-resolution recording to a compact, affordable package. It offers up to 96kHz/24-bit WAV or MP3 recording to SD cards, and recordings can be transferred to
computer through high-speed USB 2.0. A new dual recording feature records a copy of your audio at a lower level, so if the level suddenly jumps you have a backup instead of a distorted performance. Record using the new built-in condenser microphones or plug in your own. You
can slow down recordings without changing the pitch, and there's even a metronome and built-in speaker. The DR-2d provides hours of recording time using a pair of AA batteries making it the perfect partner for songwriting, live performance, rehearsal or home studio recording.
NEXO Debuts New Compact Speakers Marking its 30 anniversary, NEXO debuted new editions of its bestselling mainstream loudspeaker products. Launched at PLASA, the new PS R2 Series is likely to set new performance benchmarks in its class, an exciting range of high-output high-versatility compact cabinets which is ideal for near-field portable and installed PA applications in clubs, houses of worship, theatres and A/V installations. As well as being an exceptional choice for stage monitoring at all levels of live performance, the cabinets will serve as fill-in complements for NEXO GEO and Alpha systems. The new PS R2 Series delivers enhanced performance and operability, including increases of up to 6dB SPL from a range comprising three scalable systems, all of which can be quickly and easily configured for main PA use, for use as floor monitors, or flown vertically or horizontally in installations or for use as side/rear fills. The PS R2 Series offers the user a totally integrated loudspeaker solution, in which innovative transducer, waveguide and enclosure designs come together under the control of strategic equalisation from dedicated TD Controllers to ensure extended bandwidth and sound pressure levels, along with a high degree of speaker protection. For the latest generation of PS, there are new subbass options - the RS15 is now offered as the standard sub for the PS15-R2, providing great versatility through its ability to operate in either omni or directional mode. PLASA also sees the launch of a new sub - the LS600 - dedicated for use with the
PS10-R2. These PS R2 systems include dedicated analogue controllers, the new PS10TDController-R2 and the PS15TDController-R2. And all the new cabinets will now be offered with power options from the NXAMP product range. NEXO's patented Asymmetrical Dispersion Constant Directivity horn is the signature physical design feature of any PS cabinet, allowing it to be used horizontally or vertically. This famous rotating horn mechanism has been simplified in the new edition of loudspeakers. New grilles have been designed for all the models, providing greater durability, particularly in wedge mode. New mounting plates derived from the GEO Series enable a vast array of new touring and fixed accessories to be used with the new models, and both the PS15-R2 and PS10-R2 will have enlarged preset families.
Joe White, marketing manager of NEXO S.A., confirms that "our new PS R2s will have an accessory that earns IP54 certification, which greatly enhances the utilisation of these boxes for outdoor installs. Furthermore all new accessories developed for the PS R2 range will have TUV certification. These will be the only full-range polemounted cabinets on the market that have standard TUV certified accessories like NEXO's GEO line." NEXO launched the highly-esteemed PS10 and 15 cabinets in 1993-94, just before it became a limited company. The smaller PS8 was released in 2000. The PS15 remains, even to date, NEXO's best-selling product, and more than 200,000 NEXO PS Series speakers are hard at work around the world in applications where compact, highoutput, linear response loudspeakers are required.
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Worxaudio's New Tl1801A Sub Transducer The TL1801A represents the future of long excursion, high output sub bass loudspeakers. It's elegant, advanced design features a high temperature Neodymium magnet surrounding an under hung voice coil encased in a low carbon steel structure. The transducer's architecture enables the cone to have extremely high excursion (displacement range) with the lowest possible distortion and power compression. Weighing 52 lbs (23.59 kg), the WorxAudio TL1801A is extremely efficient, and handles an enormous amount of power. The woofer's Neodymium magnet has greater BL product (measurement of magnet strength) over conventional ceramic magnets or smaller Neodymium
magnets that are commonly utilized in other 18-inch loudspeakers. The benefit is more than four times the acoustic output compared to competing products. The TL1801A's newly advanced cone design utilizes a high strength composite for light weight efficiency while allowing greater overall movement. The TL1801A's driver has two inches (50.80 mm) of peak to peak fully linear excursion, and can move more than three inches (76.20 mm) prior to any deterioration. The result is a woofer with more linear excursion, thus providing greater acoustic output with ultra low distortion, quick transient response, and extremely low power compression with very high linearity.
Every aspect of the new TL1801A has been thoroughly designed and tested to ensure unsurpassed low frequency performance. The shape of the TL1801A's motor was optimized using finite element analysis to dissipate heat, focus flux (constant movement), and reduce weight. This promotes convection cooling with cone motion by pulling air through the motor - forcing heat out of the structure and through the vent below the double spiders, further reducing the effects of steady state power compression caused by extreme input levels over long periods of time. The TL1801A is presently incorporated into the company's TrueLine Series TL218SS and TL118SS sub bass enclosures. It will also be included in additional forthcoming products.
Worxaudio's New Instructional Video Series WorxAudio Technologies, announced the introduction of the first few offerings in an expanding series of instructional high definition videos. Produced in 1080i HD (High Definition) for exceptional image clarity, each video averages five to six minutes in duration. In addition to being readily available for instant download, WorxAudio Technologies also makes the videos available on DVD by request. Further, the WorxAudio site includes links for downloadable versions of these videos for portable devices such as Apple's iPhone, iPod Touch, iPod, and similar SmartPhones and media players - enabling audio professionals to readily access these support materials should they encounter questions while in the field. The first available WorxAudio videos include a technical presentation for pro touring rigging and another such video for installation rigging. These materials present a clear, concise look at the differences
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between flying a concert system as opposed to a permanent installation that makes use of the company's TrueAim Grid. There is also a training video for use with WorxAudio 's PMD Series power amplifiers that shows the proper procedure for powering the system up, changing program settings, determining current draw, as well as a look at the connectors and various functions available. Equally significant, WorxAudio Technologies has a technical video that documents how to assemble and test a particular product, such as a TrueLine V8 line array. This informative video examines basic service and maintenance issues that audio professionals may encounter during regular use of the products. In addition to the aforementioned video presentations, WorxAudio will soon introduce several "technology
overview" videos that feature the company's various products. These materials will present an up-close look, for example, of how a TrueLine V-Series line array (V8 or V10) operates, its various design considerations, basic operation, and how the loudspeaker system relates to competing products. Similar materials are also scheduled for the WorxAudio TrueLine X-Series, and the company's highly acclaimed Super Sub with its long excursion, 18-inch design. "The new WorxAudio video materials present a look at many of the most commonly asked questions
our technical and customer service groups encounter, Hugh Sarvis, WorxAudio Technologies' CEO and Director of Engineering, commented on the company's new video offerings. "By making these videos easily accessible, existing and prospective customers can visit the WorxAudio Technologies or YouTube websites and quickly get the
information they require. Since we're also making these materials available for portable media players, our customers can even view these videos while they're in the midst of assembling a system should they encounter questions," he said and added, "our new video production and photo suite enables us to respond to customer requests with
informative information that provides our customers a truly 'hands-on feel' for the information they require. I'm confident these materials well prove very beneficial." The new WorxAudio Technologies videos are readily available and are posted on YouTube (http:// www.youtube.com/worxaudio), with links from the WorxAudio site.
Cloud Electronics' Innovation MA60MEDIA Sheffield-based Cloud Electronics has announced the launch of a first-time innovation from its stables - the MA60MEDIA - matching many applications in the retail, hospitality, licensed premises and other entertainment markets. A simplified version, the MA60, is also available without on-board digital music player. The MA60MEDIA is an exciting new development which combines the reliability and proven versatility of Cloud mixer-amplifiers with the convenience of an on-board media player in a single, compact (2U, halfrack width) unit. The unit plays MP3 or WMA files directly from a USB device or SD memory card plugged into the front panel of the unit, via a simple set of playback controls. Optionally, music source selection and level may be controlled remotely. All standard data rates and sampling frequencies are supported. The MA60MEDIA may be configured to suit most paging systems. The balanced mic input (phantom power available), can be mixed with one of four music inputs; one of these may be the internal music player. Music input 2 is provided with a 3.5 mm jack input for easy connection of a portable music player, laptop or similar. The built-in 60W power amplifier can drive both low-impedance loudspeakers, or 100 /70 /50V line systems with the addition of an easyto-fit internal option. As with all new products in the Cloud range, the MA60MEDIA and MA60 are covered by the Cloud five-year
warranty, guaranteeing complete peace of mind. In detail, features include fourinput mixer-amplifier with integral 60 W mono power amplifier; built-in digital music player supports MP3 and WMA files at all standard data rates/sample frequencies; gain trims on all inputs; electronically-balanced mic input; 3.5 mm jack input (LINE 2) for MP3 player, laptop, etc; overall HF & LF EQ adjustment; short-to-ground access connector or VOX-triggered paging on mic input; selectable LINE 4 priority over other music inputs; usic Mute control input (NO or NC) for interface to emergency system, and 2U halfwidth (9.5") rack mounting unit. New VTX-WM1 Monitor Card: Sheffield-based Cloud Electronics has launched the VTX-WM1 web monitor card - a web server Ethernet option card option for Cloud's new VTX power amplifiers. The VTX card hosts its own website providing monitoring and surveillance information about the amplifier's condition and status which can be viewed from any remote location at any time using any computer (or PDA, smartphone, etc.) via its normal Internet browser application. With no further software necessary, the VTX card is the simplest and lowest-cost option available. Passwords and criteria are established at point of installation. Monitoring options span load monitoring, input level monitoring, signal level indications, temperature and level controls and all user configurable settings. Alarm warnings and status
messages are sent via email (or SMS). This includes a 'Black Box' message should the amplifier fail and shut down: the battery back-up within the card allows it to send a final message and its settings. The VTX-WM1, like the VTX amplifier range, is covered by the Cloud fiveyear warranty, guaranteeing complete peace of mind. Detailed features include of the system include optional Ethernet interface for Cloud VTX power amplifiers that allows remote monitoring of amplifier status from any computer, anywhere, operability with and from any web browser - no dedicated software and network necessary - simple and intuitive user interfaces etc. Additional features include monitors internal temperature, signal level, PSU status, protection circuitry and fans, compliance with all amplifier rear panel control settings, real-time clock for event logging and automatic email or SMS text alert on predefined fault condition.
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• INSTALLS •
Chinmaya Vibhooti Vision Centre
Guiding Spiritual Experience Some 35 km to the northwest of Pune - on the Paud-Kolwan-Pawna Road - away from the hustle and bustle of an overtly urban life, is a very sedate and sprawling campus on the right with some specialised markings. A typical school of thought (of a visionary) strikes the mind as one reads Chinmaya Vibhooti Vision Centre, with a feel of an exalted spirituality ranting the air. The Vision Centre - even as it practically manifests the vision of the great Guru demonstrates a fine harmony between physics and metaphysics. It's a spiritual experience guided by technology. An SS report. The Chinmaya Vibhooti Vision Centre near Pune is one of many campuses that the spiritual institution has set up all over the world. However, it stands out from the rest with its distinctive characteristic. While the sprawling campus is dotted with several purposebuilt structures hosting various spiritual programmes of the institution, cresting them all is what the institution calls the 'Chinmaya Jeevan Darshan.' Created as a monument in memory of Swami Chinmayananda with an objective of spreading the knowledge about the spiritual guru, his life,
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vision, teachings and works, the structure and its integral elements make up a truly monumental effort that takes devotees, tourists and people in general visiting the venue through a very sophisticated spiritual experience by means of a fascinating audio and video technology.
The beginning of the spiritual guidance: Front Desk with the GuidePort system
• INSTALLS • The visitor experience here is guided and governed by what they call the 'GuidePort' system, an innovative audio transmission system from German audio major Sennheiser. Installed and integrated by Sennheiser India, the system transmits audio content directly to the visitors in the chosen language based on the visitor's location within the venue. The system comprises a GuidePort receiver, a headset and an identifier, besides a software system that synchronises all these components. The visitors are given the GuidePort receiver and the headset at the front desk, and their preferred language is set. Though the technology allows for multilingual audio transmission, it is currently done only in English. "We are trying to incorporate Hindi and Marathi into the GuidePorts," The path of guidance: Entering the Chinmaya Jeevan Darshan informs Neeraj Bhai, site incharge and general manager at Chinmaya Jeevan According to him, there are two individual into an extraordinary Darshan. "It takes time to create aspects to the whole exercise. Oneto visionary and spiritual master to equivalent content and style, and demonstrate what made or inspire millions of people across the matching audition in regional transformed an otherwise ordinary globe and a spectrum of generations; languages, but we hope we will have two- to create an opportunity for the them soon," he says adding, "our young and modern efforts are also on to get generations - who, separate content for children The exhibits at Chinmaya Jeevan Darshan apparently, know little about on the lines of what is being also comprise a wax statue done by a person Chinmayananda - to played now. The idea is to who is reportedly associated with Madame understand and experience make the content lighter so the exalted bliss that that they can understand it Tussad’s Museum. There are some more Chinmaya's teachings easily, and do not feel it statues that are made of moulded characterise. heavy or incomprehensible polymer-based material. and lose interest altogether." The Experience
Exhibition of spirituality with art and acoustics technology
The monument is a combination of large domes and semi-pyramidal structures from its exterior appearance which is again a symbolic format. Once inside, what attracts one immediately are large murals or wall paintings in each of the enclosure. The front desk itself is adorned on either side with huge mural of 'Om's as if to preset the ensuring spiritual experience inside. The visitors are led inside through several squarish halls adorned with large murals on both side, and a kiosk at one corner. All the halls are uniformly designed in a combination of bright golden yellow and red interiors with yellow surfaces providing background to the murals while red surfaces provide background for entry and exit routes. The ceiling is January-March 2010
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• INSTALLS • tandem with the mural the visitor is passing in front of.
The ceiling design in tandem with the interior concept
again done in uniformly patterned squares in red and snuff themes. The thematic lighting is done in such a fashion that it accentuates the visual experience in tandem with the audio experience while standing in front of the murals.
and mellifluous audio so that the visitors can take the essence of the message being conveyed in the story even as they comprehend the depiction done in the mural. If the visitor continuously keeps walking from one mural to the other, the audio being played through the headset also keeps changing in
For one, this is similar, in one way, to the audio experience created at Akshardham Delhi where the 'Boat Ride' programme comprises sequential audio playback while visitors pass from one exhibit to the other through the artificial river meandering through an artistic cave. However, there are no headsets and audio receivers involved in the Boat Ride event at Akshardham as the audio playback is done directly through the discretely installed speakers around each exhibit. The boats are equipped with sensors which activate the audio system everytime they pass from in front of the exhibit and the audio corresponding to the exhibit is played through the speakers. In Chinmaya Jeevan Darshan, the sensors (identifiers) are fitted into the floral motif below each mural. A receiver zone is created around each identifier, and when the visitor moves into that zone, it synchromises with the GuidePort system and the receiver so that the relevant audio or video is played.
The murals are significant in that each of them indicate one aspect of the Swamiji's life. There is a story One among many domes is special in the associated with each of the sense that the disciples of Swamiji have murals which is played through the headsets the moment the carefully codified his preachings into 108 visitor enters the 'audio zone' musical renditions around a central theme. of that particular mural. This is It is a mix of audio and video aimed at all done automatically, without the user having to press it on. taking the visitors through a musical Each story runs for about 4-5 journey with Swamiji's spiritual messages. minutes in a very conducive
More, the GuidePort system takes the audio(visual) experience at Chinmaya Jeevan Darshan one step further in that it integrated display-kiosks installed at different points all through the monument. These kiosks are loaded with both audio and video clippings that speak about various aspects
The spritiual technology on demo: Neeraj Bhai of Chinmaya Jeevan Darshan explains the kiosk-multimedia functioning (observe Swamiji on the monitor); (right) the GuidePort system in close-up
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• INSTALLS •
A demo of many a communication: Art, technology, mysticism, and life and mission of Swamiji
of Swamiji's messages and sermons on diverse subjects that are played back once the visitor moves into its sensor zone, and chooses his/her choice. Explains Neeraj: "For example, there is a channel called 'Ask Gurudev' which contains various types of questions that people have asked Swamiji in the past, and Swamiji's answers to the same. When the visitor touches the touch-screen monitor on a particular question, Swamiji's answering video appears on the monitor screen while the relevant audio is played through the headset. Likewise, there are many questions and answers, some of them include
news clippings too. "They all are carefully selected and structured into the system so that any inquisitive visitor can find most of his/ her queries answered either in audio or video," says Neeraj. GuidePort system is programmed in such a way that it also plays silent audio in places where absolute silence is required. Another interesting feature of the GuidePort system is that upon exiting the venue, if any visitor forgets returning the system at the front desk, it starts beeping in just a few minutes. The Technology The GuidePort system, though remotely similar to the Akshardham Boat Ride event, innovative in its own right and is a first-of-its-kind install in India. Explains Sennheiser India representative: "Globally, Sennheiser has done many challenging GuidePort projects. The Frida Kahlo museum in Mexico city, Mexico, the Augsburg Mozart House in Germany, and Ferrari museum in Italy all stand testimony to the experience that the GuidePort system creates. The install at Chinmaya Jeevan Darshan, though first in India, is equally unique and impacting."
The GuidePort system components, working behind
It is actually programmed for four types of audio- Hindi, English, music
only and dialogues conveying ideas and vision of the Swamiji. It accommodates up to 42 locations or 'zones' set up across the complex, and divided between the mural exhibits and kiosks. There are •
23 Zones for stored information (Currently in English, with flexibility for Hindi & Marathi)
•
14 Zones for direct audio broadcasts from the interactive multimedia kiosks (video screens)
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2 Silent zones to trigger to mute programmes before two statues of Swamiji
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1 Zone at the beginning to start programmes 3 and 4
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One or two additional identifiers along the way to trigger the continuation of those two programmes. Two additional identifiers included
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A provision for two identifiers to trigger the alarm
With the automatic functionality, the triggering action is performed by a device called an Identifier. The identifier broadcasts its identity and gives instructions to the receiver that each visitor has. Once a receiver enter an identifier's range, it will either play a file
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'Olympic' Opera at the Bird's Nest The dazzling finale of the Chinese 60th founding anniversary celebrations that was organized at the famous Bird's Nest (Beijing National Stadium) in the Chinese capital recently presented was like a continuation of what it had been during the Opening Ceremony of 2008 Olympics held at the same venue. For, the spectacle involved massive moving stage, suspended performers in the air, and a blitz of theatrical techniques. It was a new audio visual treat in operatic style. An SS snapshot. The Bird's Nest stadium came alive once again recently when it hosted the brand new production of Puccini's famous opera Turandot as part of the Chinese 60th founding anniversary celebrations. The much-anticipated show directed by Yimou Zhang - who was stupendously supported by a creative team that worked for the Beijing 2008 Summer Games' Opening Ceremony - was actually a contemporary rendition of an ancient fable. However, the most fascinating factor of the whole presentation was the employment of advanced visual technology that turned the epic into a dazzling visual sensation, besides being an aurally captivating experience.
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Playing central to the whole extravaganza was the visual solutions leader Christie's Roadster S+20K DLP projection systems. Directing this opera for the second time, Zhang injected multi-media technology to recreate a different presentation as compared to the one he staged for Forbidden City in 1998. At Turandot's press conference, Zhang said that the production demonstrated similar visual concepts not seen at last year's Beijing Summer Games ceremonies and that it represented a continuation of his dream and passion for the prestigious sporting event. In Turandot, Zhang also deployed a "moving" stage and
suspended performers in the air with cables; theatrical techniques that were a hallmark of last year's Games and which were used again to produce a unique effect. After a stunning and glitch-free performance at the Beijing 2008 Summer Games, Turandot's leading creative team, including lighting designer Sha Xiaolan, selected Christie projectors as their main visual solution for the opera. Wincomn Technology Development Co. Ltd., one of Christie's most prominent partners in China, provided a total of 32 Christie Roadster projectors for the event. Emulating the "Chinese ink painting"
• INSTALLS • display at the Games, these projectors screened abstract images and animated content onto a 1,000-square metre, 40-million pixel backdrop screen. This complemented the leading characters' performances onstage. The five Chinese ink paintings by renowned artist Song Xiaoming portrayed the five opera scenes. What made the Bird's Nest version 'modern and Olympic-flavored' was exactly this giant backdrop upon which various images were projected. These images included horses galloping while Timur reminisced front stage about his past, a giant moon during the execution scene and a giant gong that Prince Calaf strikes to enter the riddle contest. Against this screen that is 17.5 meters high by 52 meters wide is the moveable silhouette of a palace. In the center was a square frame that moved forward, bringing with it the emperor and his throne. Two platforms on the stairs move horizontally, meeting at the center. "During the Beijing 2008 Summer Games, we presented a new image of China to
the rest of the world, using the most advanced visual technology for the Bird's Nest," said Sha Xiaolan, Turandot's Lighting Designer. "Now, we have adopted these creative technologies and turned one of the world's greatest operas, Turandot, into an unforgettable experience that celebrates our nation's founding. We've had an excellent working relationship with Christie and Wincomn since the Beijing 2008 Summer Games. We were pleased with the performance of the Christie projectors as well as the Christie support team, who worked with us to meet all of the stringent visual and technical requirements of this operatic production." "We're extremely pleased to have participated in this significant production, which celebrated the 60th anniversary of our nation's founding," said Tony Chen, president, Wincomm Technology Development Co. Ltd. "This is yet another memorable moment after the stunning display at the Beijing 2008 Summer Games' ceremonies. The Christie Roadster S+20K projectors once again demonstrated their versatility by meeting the critical requirements of the
large-scale theatrical production, Turandot." Lin Yu, vice-president, Christie, Asia Pacific, commented: "China has always been an early adopter of cutting-edge technologies. The hugely successful opening and closing ceremonies of the Beijing 2008 Summer Games are a testament to China's innovation and creativity in presenting world-class staging events. Zhang's production of Turandot is a combination of China's ancient culture and the latest visual technology, rendering an operatic presentation with a modern twist. We're extremely happy to work with the Beijing 2008 Summer Games' creative team once again and together, we look forward to offering more visual feats to the rest of the world." With a budget of RMB120 million (17.6 million USD), Turandot featured a cast of about 1,000 performers and more than 4,000 sets of elaborate costumes. Following its premiere, the production is tentatively scheduled to deliver approximately 30 performances in 20 cities around the world.
...contd from page SS-33
Chinmaya Vibhooti Vision Centre that is stored in the receiver or 'listen' to an antenna channel to play a live feed (a soundtrack from a video or multimedia kiosk). The identifier's range of action is adjustable and can be as little as 50 cm in diameter or big like an entire gallery. The technology also allows for guided tours where people can form small groups and one guide speaks to all of them at once," informs Neeraj Bhai. "However, we have not yet incorporated this." Hopefully they would do in the months to come as they are already into their efforts for audio in local languages, and purpose content for children. In all, the GuidePort install at Chinmaya Jeevan Darshan comprised a total of •
240 receivers - model GP EK 3200-5
•
Five button receivers with 20 hours of storage capacity
•
Chargers
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PMX60 neck band headphones
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Lanyards and one extra set of ear muffs per headphone
According to the Sennheiser representative, there were no challenges for them to realise the install as per the brief and specs evolved. That they possess the expertise to do such innovative installs, and the venue was also designed in tune with its requirement, there were no big challenges to deal with. There were, of course, some logistic challenges and the fact that monsoon delayed the site construction. Acoustically too, there were no challenges at all, since the audio is transmitted through Sennheiser headphones which are known for their acoustic quality. "GuidePort from Sennheiser is about experiencing, not just about listening," says Sharmila Sahai, MD, Sennhesier Electronics India Pvt. Ltd. "GuidePort is a unique personal audio touring system that makes every visitor feel as if the venue was built exclusively for them," she says, adding, "with information that one
controls and transmits wirelessly from a central location, one can customize tours, presentations, live events in virtually any environment- indoors or outdoors. All to give the visitors what they value most- freedom." According to the Sennheiser India chief, the advantages with the GuidePort are many. Users have the flexibility of going around in the venue without following any fixed route. They feel comfortable with the lightweight Sennheiser headphones for complete freedom of movement. That the components are robust, they offer outstanding operator convenience. They are intuitive as well as simple. Information can be customised for different types of visitors. Over all, the Chinmaya Jeevan Darshan truly manifests the life and vision of the great spiritual guru. It is a fine combination of spirituality, art and technology.
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• INSTALLS •
'Miss World' in New Glamour Miss World 2009 which returned to South Africa recently for the second year running brought a new glamour to the event, not just in terms of beauty to the pageant but also in terms of the technology glitz employed to present the spectacle. Staged at the Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg, the event offered a whole new experience to the viewers at the venue as well as those watching on television worldwide. An SS Snapshot. The Miss World contest for the second time in the running had the same technical combination working behind the scenes. It had again united the design team of Tim Dunn (lighting
Lighting designer Tim Dunn
Set Designer Dewet Meyer
& visuals) and Dewet Meyer (set), who were challenged to produce a vibrant visual and scenic environment with a distinctly African flavour as a dynamic backdrop for the world's highest profile beauty pageant. It was recorded by SABC and broadcast live to 80 of the 112
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participating countries, for the first time going to the US, India for both Hindi and English channels and China via CCTV4, reaching an estimated viewing audience of between 1 and 2 billion. Dunn showcased Robe lighting's newest lighting digital and moving light innovations with nearly 300 Robe intelligent units on the rig, so there was plenty of headroom for visual fun and invention. True to form, he pushed technical and imaginative boundaries in presenting a world class event. Gearhouse South Africa delivered the full technical production package involving 4 companies spanning 9 disciplines - lighting, sound, AV, LED screens, media, structures, staging, rigging and power - in an operation overseen on site by project manager Eyal Yehezkely.
The elegant set was a 45 metre wide by 38 metre deep spherical structure inspired by African jewels, circled by two architectural rings. These were Gearhouse project painted white to manager - Eyal maximise the Yehezkely lighting effects, with the forestage and other areas a combination of white and greys. The front steps below the 29 x 5K fresnels used for key lighting were clad with printed PVC for background contrast to the contestants when on camera. Surrounding the whole structure was a white PVC cyc. The new Robe products used included 72 ROBIN 300s - Spot, Wash & Beam fixtures - which are small and very
• INSTALLS • powerful. Twelve new ColorBeam 700E ATs were a real result - "Incredibly" bright, and ideal for funky cameracandy effects and chases. Dunn worked 12 DigitalSpot 3000DTs into the design, keen to build on last year's experience and expand the enormous creative scope of these digital moving projectors, used for liquid video effects traversing the whole set. This year, the rig contained 42 Robe REDWash 3?192 LED wash fixtures, known for their smooth homogenised lightsources and now 40% brighter than the original versions launched last year. He also used 72 of Robe's most powerful current moving lights, the ColorSpot and ColorWash 2500E AT. Fifty small spheres were positioned around the rings, internally lit with Anolis Ark-Link 3 RGB LEDs, delivered at short notice by Robe's South African distributor DWR, who also supplied the new Robe lights to Gearhouse. Dunn ran all the lighting on a grandMA full size console working closely with lighting director High Turner. Marcel Wijnberger and Chris Grandin from Gearhouse Media created playback video content for the onstage LED screen and DigitalSpots, stored on an MA media server, triggered from the console. The same content could be run through 114
pixel mapped i-Pix Satellite LED bricks embedded in the set surrounds. Playback video, plus logos, stings and show graphics appeared on the central LED screen, 10 x 5 panels of Lighthouse R16 supplied by LEDVision, output via a Barco Encore screen management system operated by Gearhouse AV's Craig McGinn. He also received multiple camera and EVS feeds from SABC's OB truck to output to two 8 x 4.5 metre side screens, each fed by a pair of double stacked Christie 18K projectors. For Jako de Wit from Gearhouse Audio, it was a relatively straightforward set up, requiring precision and good coverage, for
which they flew main hangs of 8 LAcoustics V-DOSC cabinets a side, each with 3 dV-DOSC downfills. Seven single dV delays covered the raised audience seating areas. Great teamwork - technical and creative - between all working on the event ensured the delivery of yet another visually spectacular production of Miss World from South Africa, setting a real benchmark for all subsequent events. Miss Gibraltar, Kaiane Aldorino was crowned Miss World 2009, with Miss Mexico, Perla Beltran Acosta, and Miss South Africa, Tatum Keshwar, the second and third runners up respectively.
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• INSTALLS •
Glitz of AV at Loerei Awards
The 31st annual edition of Loerie Awards was held recently in the South African tourist city of Cape Town. The major element of the Loeries Festival - anecdotally considered the coolest, best and most anticipated party weekend for media professionals in the southern hemisphere - had all the glitz and glamour that an event of its size and scale are associated with. Playing central in the whole gig was Gearhouse South Africa who supplied technical equipment - rigging, sound, lighting, video, media, power and backline. An SS report. After a hotly contested pitch between Margate, Johannesburg, Cape Town and Sun City, the Loeries Committee this year decided to move the awards to the Mother City and to give the event a high glamour, red carpet feel. Themed 'Feed your Ego', the 2009 Loeries poked fun at the sometimes egocentric aspects of the ad industry. The two nights of Awards were staged in Cape Town's Good Hope Centre, a 6000 capacity theatre venue, and Gearhouse was working for production company H-Factor, who created the production design for the event. The first night's Awards were related to print media and communication design, and the second to TV, radio and digital/
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• INSTALLS • electronic. Both were recorded by SABC for broadcast. Technical production was by Steve Collins and the project was managed on site for Gearhouse by Richard Blamire and co-ordinated in the office by Cape Town branch manager, Charl Smit. They worked with a site crew of 45. Gearhouse also supplied equipment to the pre-show reception and afterparty area in the Good Hope Centre foyer. The 45 metre wide staging concept was devised by Heloise Fourie and Andrew Shelly of H-Factor and implemented by Leon Erasmus from Cape Town-based LEG Studios, to resemble a giant, abstracted PCB, complete with five projection screens. Lighting Designed by Phillip Chames, the lighting rig was partially flown and supported by various elements of an extensive ground support system. This was installed to help get points and scenery supports in exactly the right
This year, the Awards were projection orientated with some LED - a reversal of the concept for the 2008 event. Two wide rear projection screens were installed at the back of the stage, next to one another, measuring 12 metres wide by 6.8 high and 8 metres wide by 6.8 metres wide, with areas masked by various set pieces.
The lighting was distributed between 20 sections of trussing hung above the stage and auditorium, ranging from 10 to 60 metres in length. Chames used 70 moving lights - a mix of Martin MAC 250s, 2K Profiles and Washes and Robe ColorWash 700E ATs. The generic rig included Molefeys and 5K fresnels used for front key lighting from above, together with E/T/C Source Four profiles. Bars of 6 PARs were dotted all over the audience trussing. There were also 18 Atomic strobes onstage and 24 i-Pix Satellite LED 'bricks' for set illumination. This was all run by Chames using a Hog iPC console, running in Hog3 mode. Media & AV
places, and to boost the available rigging facilities, with some points also suspended from the venue's roof. The requirement was to light both the stage - which was action-packed with Awards presentations, guest bands and DJs - and the audience for TV and live enjoyment.
Gearhouse Media's Chris Grandin collaborated closely with show producer Andrew Shelly from H-Factor to edit and produce a smooth flowing animated media stream for the two Awards shows. This process started a good nine months ahead of the event. Once the set design was completed, Grandin decided on the kit and what
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• INSTALLS • would work best with the screen configurations. This year, the Awards were projection orientated with some LED - a reversal of the concept for the 2008 event. Two wide rear projection screens were installed at the back of the stage, next to one another, measuring 12 metres wide by 6.8 high and 8 metres wide by 6.8 metres wide, with areas masked by various set pieces. About 50 square metres of Lighthouse R16 LED panelling was integrated into the set as digital scenery, and another three 4.5m x 4.5m projection surfaces were asymmetrically positioned to the sides of the set. The content - including special logos and Loerie idents and Awards stings was supplied by two different agencies, juju (for Friday) and Wicked Pixels (for Saturday) under the creative direction of H-Factor and The Loerie Awards. Juju also collaborated with the artists to produce graphics for the bands for both nights. Grandin used an AV-stumpfl Wings platinum multi-Display system to
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complete all the editing and compositing. On site, 6 outputs were sent from the Wings to a Barco Encore/Screen pro 2 set up controlled via the Encore, operated by Craig McGinn. Camera ISO inputs and a mix from SABC's HD OB truck were also sent to the Encore. The screens were fed by a total of 7 Christie projectors - two HD 18Ks, 2 16Ks and 3 8Ks. Audio Sound was designed by John Griesel, and featured left and right dV-DOSC hangs of 12 elements each, with 8 dVSUBS on the floor. Revil Baselga looked after monitor world - which utilised 14 L-Acoustics coaxial 115XT HiQ wedges and a Yamaha M7 console, with another M7 for FOH. The 2 consoles were linked via an Optocore digital multi. The mics-and-stands package included 6 channels of hand-held Shure UHFs and 6 channels of beltpacks. The DJ booth was kitted out with two Tecnics SL1200 turntables and a pair of Pioneer CDJ1000 CD players, with a Pioneer DJM800 mixer, and Gearhouse supplied a generic set of backline that
was used by all the bands. Guest artists included Jay Panik, Goldfish, The Rudimentals, Mannenberg All Stars, Lira and Mix n Blend. Gearhouse Power used a combination of house power and two 300KVA RandAir generators to power the production. Reception/Foyer This got the party started during the pre-show gathering and was also an immediate after-party area for all attending the two nights of Awards. For the stage, Gearhouse supplied a Turbo Flashlight sound system and Soundcraft MH4 console, and another backline and DJ set up. Lighting included 12 moving lights and generics. Sound was run by Darryl O'Connor and lighting by Hilton Carelse. Long Street After Party For the real party enthusiasts, the celebrations continued with official Loeries Festival after-party area in Long Street, which was pedestrianised and taken over between 9 p.m. and 4 a.m. both nights, incorporating several key restaurants and bars.
REVIEW Broadcast India 2009 was held from 29-31 October 31, 2009 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai. Into its 19th year, and and building on the momentum generated over the past few years, the 2009 edition proved to be an even more prestigious, and bigger global platform for the film, television and infotainment industry than ever before. This despite the last year's recession having its clear bearing on the market sentiment for industry shows. Tipped to be the biggest showcasing platform in the country and south Asia for media and broadcasting industry, the event this year had over 500 companies from 31 countries as its exhibitors, spread over a sprawling 60,000 square feet area. The dynamic buzz that spread across the market in the run up to the event about the event and the market spurt had brought significant number of new exhibitors which was a big plus to the event. The three-day event included two days of technical sessions on October 29 and 30 that deliberated on diverse issues impacting the industry. The topics covered comprised panel discussions and workshops on IPTV, mobile solutions, digital cinema, High Definition, newsroom automation, content management distribution and delivery, content consumption and business of gaming apart from a
The technical sessions
host of topics that are regular every year. As for the tradeshow, it was clearly bigger than ever. VTI showcased P2 and Avccam format from Panasonic, top of the line, multi standard HDTV EPF Hitachi cameras and cost-effective digital video solutions by Datavideo. Harris demonstrated Videotek compact monitor series for testing signal integrity across all DTV broadcast signal formats up to 3 Gb/s in a half-rack, energy-saving design. Vizrt introduced
versions of artist animation and visual effects creation design tool, content pilot template-based graphics system, and multi-channel branding software. Benchmark showcased the latest version of the scratch digital process solution as well as the scratch stereoscopic 3D workflow. Genesis/ AJA displayed: Ki pro-production and post unified, a tape-less video recording device connecting to a wide variety of professional HD with hardware conversion capabilities including unifying of different formats. Avid launched media composer, version of the Avid DS and Interplay 2. Sennheiser India represented Georg Neumann GmbH, Berlin studio microphones, K + H studio monitors
Delegates at one of the seminars
Vistors at the tradeshow
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EVENT CALENDAR 2010 April 12-15 NAB Show Las Vegas www.nabshow.com April 18-20 Palme ME Dubai, UAE www.palme-middleeast.com June 3-5 Palm India Mumbai www.palmexpo.in June 9-11 InfoComm Las Vegas www.infocommshow.org June 15-18 Broadcast Asia, Singapore www.broadcast-asia.com
and installed sound, besides Sennheiser Communications A/S' headsets that are meant for PCs, offices and call centres. ARRI displayed the new ARRI digital camera body. Various ARRI accessories including the MB-29 matte boxes and the Controlled Lens Motor CLM-3 were also on display. ARRI also presented its innovative new Led Pax panel kits. Cineom represented Grass Valley with their K2 Solo and T2, the new generation intelligent DDR and their entire range of Broadcast Equipment. Black Magic Design/ da Vinci Resolve and Revival showcased GDC technology and Real D's 3D Cinema, and Editshare's two new ark models. Monarch Innovative Technologies Pvt. Ltd. showcased the Mario award winning Virtuoso series enabling broadcasters to deliver sophisticated
July 23-25 Cinema Today Chennai, India www.cinematoday.in
presentations. S.R. Electronics displayed Penelope 2 perf. and 3 Perf. reflex camera suitable for digital post and Chrosziel products. Apple's audio and video products were displayed on the stands of Unicorn Infosolutions Pvt. Ltd. Daxco Digital brought digital film recorder, Definity from CCG and golden-eye digital film scanner from Image Systems. Stereovision showcased Arri, Kino flo, Dedo, Airstar, Gekko, Kish Optics, Spectracine, Schneider Optics, Movie Intercom Lighting tools, Photoflex, Losmandy, GFM, Mathews grip, Nebtek, Century Optics, and Pag orbitor. In all, Broadcast India 2009 reinforced itself as the region's best show for the broadcasting industry.
Stalls
July 21-23 Palme Vietnam Vietnam www.palme-asia.com August 23-26 BIRTV Beijing, China www.birtv.com September 10-14 IBC Amsterdam, Holland www.ibc.org
Sandy Media
Modi Digital
R & S Electronics
Philips Lighting
Sonodyne
Sennheiser
September 12-15 PLASA London, UK www.plasashow.com October 21-23 Broadcast India Mumbai, India www.broadcastindiashow.com November 17-19 Infocomm Asia Hong Kong www.infocomm-asia.com
NSA
November National Symposium on Acoustics Rishikesh, India www.acousticsindia.org
2011 February BES Expo New Delhi, India www.besindia.com
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REVIEW
NSA 2009 November 26-28 National Symposium on Acoustics Hyderabad, India
The National Symposium on Acoustics 2009 was organised from 26-28 November 2009 at the Research Centre Imarat, Hyderabad. The three-day conference was jointly organised by the Acoustical Society of India and Research Centre Imarat. The RCI - which functions under the Defence Research and Development Organization under the Defence Ministry, became part of the annual acoustics symposium programme by the ASI for the first time. The Directorate of Environmental Test Facility (ENTEST) - an integral part of the RCI playing a critical role in research and development in the field of vibro-acoustics - played host to the three-day convention. Given the defence organ's commendable work in its chosen field, the theme of the symposium was rightly decided as 'vibroacoustics of aerospace structures.' The ENTEST has developed 160 dB high intensity acoustic test facility which caters to the qualification requirements of all missile projects. It has indigenously developed key elements for establishing 170 dB acoustic test facility. World-class shock and vibration test facilities are established apart from other environmental test facilities for testing different categories of missile systems.
In accordance with the host organization's core competence and the theme of the event, NSA invited original paper contributions relating to different disciplines falling under the domain of vibro-acoustics, besides the those with generic applications in acoustics. The major areas for the papers included:
•
Thermo acoustics
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Vibro-Acoustics
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Speech, hearing and music
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Medical and bio-acoustics
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Active noise and vibration control techniques
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Indigenous development of acoustic equipment
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Physical and engineering acoustics
•
Applied acoustics
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Rotating machinery
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Ultrasonics
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Health monitoring
•
Random vibration and signal processing
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Quieter technologies
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Acoustic signal processing techniques
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Noise and vibration measurement, analysis and control
Several enthusiastic young and professional acousticians presented papers during the convention. The event had attracted acoustical community from across the country, and the delegates included professional acoustic practitioners as well as academicians from reputed research institutions.
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'Clubbing' Entertainment Most people presume entertainment industry in India to be majorly movies and retail outing. The discerning outing community, however, thinks and acts otherwise. For them, it is the clubbing (and pubbing)! Though still of a comparatively lesser platter, this GenNext outing activity is gradually grabbing bigger ground across the country. Pursuing that with perseverance and unswerving approach is Pune-based Akash (Devraj) Sethi. Coming as he did, from a very orthodox family, Akash practically built a profession and business out of nothing in industry terms, and what was considered a taboo for a traditional system. Yet, he made it, and put a stamp of his own. Today, Akash Sethi (AS) a multi-faceted entertainer that he is - is a like a phenomenon in Indian clubbing industry. SS, for a change, talks to AS, its First Person this time, to know how exactly it all happened and opened a new entertainment chapter in India. Excerpts:
SS - Coming from the traditional background you had, it's a little unusual that you chose to be a clubbing professional. How is this? Where exactly you feel the seeding took place for this career? AS - Aah! I can say it started somewhere when I was around 15. Soon after schooling, like any other adolescent, I used to mingle with boys and girls; we would often party with some mix of amplified sound. I just grew curious to know what makes the sound box or the amplifier sound like that. I continued to study the sound box at every partying time as seriously as I partied and began to grab a bit or two about what makes a sound box sound good, if not great. Once people got to know the skills I was developing, they would call me to
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connect their systems, or even get a wire right to make their audio sound good. It soon became a passion, and I realised I could make a profession out of this. My electronics education did contribute immensely to capture the nuances of getting the sound right. By 1992, when I set up my first concern Audio&Aux - as a symbol of my passion for the activity - I was a selftaught DJ in my own right. Though I gave up that in 1994 to pursue my next level of academics, my passion for 'club' sound continued to grow which saw the coming up of Laxmichand Traders and then ADS 25/ 7. A diploma, a bachelors and a business administration degree in industrial electronics, saw me elevate as a technology professional to provide equipment and knowhow to
a range of entertainment venues in Maharashtra, Goa and beyond. SS - I presume the journey wasn't all that rocking from when and where you began. Could you please elaborate on the challenges, thrills and chills of this journey? AS - Aah! It was indeed tough. It was clearly a taboo to party as it would divert your from academics and socially-acknowledged living terms. Obviously thus, I had no financial support for acquiring skills in the field. I was compelled to seek technical education, and from there on, it was all academic burden that kept me away for a good time. There had been a great deal of family emotional push too to pursue education rather than
indulging in 'tabooed things.' However, I worked overtime, and took financial help from friends and wellwishers to buy my first DJ mixer and auxiliary equipment. I had to do a lot of goodwill service too to gain name. It had all the travails before I made to what I think I am for. SS - Pune has become your professional base by default, or you made it so looking at the potential of the business in the city? AS - Well, Pune is a great melting bowl. It's one of the biggest historic cities in India with multiple richestraditional tenets, cultural events, academic excellence, IT prowess and industrial strengths, and an aware human activism with transcendental pursuits. The city is home to many singers and dancers of repute, and breeds an aspiring generation. To add to this are performers of various kinds from all over the world keep visiting the city. So, it is obviously one of the most potential places to seek professional excellence.
SS - Has the clubbing activity in the city contributed to your growth or vice-versa? To what extent? AS - I would say it is more of the city's potential which appealed to my senses and we both grew together. To put it more methodically, the incredible growth of hospitality industry in the city, complimented by the explosion of IT sector and the 'GenNext' traits have all contributed to the clubbing activity in the city. We often get so buzzed up that we hardly get a respite, attending to client needs. With any programme of some significance becoming a celebration, Pune provides one of the best grounds for this kind of activity.
Having said that, I must also say - at the risk of sounding self-conceited - that I strove to add value in the best way possible to the clubbing activity in the city, and beyond. SS - How dynamic you consider the clubbing in Pune? AS - It is growing- at an incredible pace. What it was a few years ago is a distant past from what it is today. And, what it is today will be the same from what it would probably be few years, if not few months down the line. There are at least half-a-dozen clubbing or DJing programmes every evening in the city. This alone can indicate how dynamic it is going.
On the other hand, Pune is my home by default, having had all my childhood and basic and higher education in this city itself, besides my professional passions. The city, therefore, nurtured both my bringing up and my professional skills. So, it is just finding everything together at one place.
Entertainment: ADS 24/7 Akash Devraj Sethi, or ADS in short, is an interesting proposition altogether. Unassuming as he might seem to be, ADS characterises a very intriguing stuff so much so that he acronymed his name into one of his clubbing concern with a '24/7 DJ Studio' suffixmeaning its services are available 24 hours a day! It caters to the needs of professional and upcoming disc jockeys with supply of equipment for practice, recording and remixing etc. Then he also has 'Dev Generators' that complements the ADS 24/7 services, and other businesses with supply of gen sets.
That he has four inter-related businesses running under his stewardship and keeps him occupied '25 hours a day' isn't enough, he nurtures many a hobby that seem poles apart. A Gold Award holder from the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme for physical recreation, outdoor and mountaineering skills, he is one of the very few Indians qualified to lead climb a 5-10 American grade vertical rock face. "Mountaineering isn't sport for me, it's a form of philosophy," he says, and claims having trekked the mountain ranges of Kulu, Manali, Vashashist, Leh, Ladakh, Spiti Valley and Zanskar etc. An able motorist that he states to be sounds
veritable in his claim of taking second rally position at the world's highest motorable road Kardungla Pass in Himachal Pradesh, organised by HP. He is also a pursuant of philately and art, besides being an animal lover. Intriguingly enough, ADS sounds deeply spiritual, when he claims to be a regular at all the Kumbh Melas and visited four Dhamas, five Prayags and 12 Jyotirlingas, and even Yogic, when he claims to be a practitioner of Kriya, Hamsa and Hatha Yogas. How does ADS do all these things? It's as intriguing as it is incredible too.
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SS - Clubbing, or 'DJing,' so to say, is not an 'Indian' trait, generically. How do you look at the clubbing dynamism in the country as compared to other countries/ markets in Asia, or the West?
provider and performer(s) for one's typical setting. It is just that simple. When it comes to owner-operator, I strongly believe they know what they want. They sometimes appear very demanding that they even know the specs of the setting they intend to set up and want exactly that. They are aware of the brands and their relative capacity, and want the best in the world to rock their spaces. So, it's all a mix.
AS - Aah! You have not partied in Pune- hence this assumption. I don't think it holds good. It may not be right to generalise specific cases, particularly when it relates to Pune and partying. Not only the city's evenings pulsate with drumbeats and trumpets accompanying world-renowned voices, DJs and young crooners from the city have enthralled party communities the world over- Dubai, Germany, Canada USA etc. People here are tech savvy and are thoroughly exposed to the global developments and they love modern living. May be, yes, there are some traits that are popular outside East or West that we have not adopted, but that by no means discounts the clubbing activism of this country, or this city in particular. We have owned the global trends and we have influenced them too. SS - How do you look at the kind of equipment brought into clubbing, technical expertise available, and
SS - How do you look at the clubbing industry in India as such, in comparison with the advanced Far East or the West?
related awareness among the owner-operators ? AS - First the equipment- it is first class, as good as anywhere else. May be there are a few exceptions of some extravagant clubs somewhere. But Indian club genius is no less. And it is going from strength to strength. All the world famous clubbing or rental brands like EV, Dynacord, QSC, OHM, HK Audio, Martin, NEXO and FunktionOne are all here. Technical expertise may not sound to be abundant, but sufficiently available. One only has to find the right solution
AS - Exactly what I said just now. The only difference is that those markets are saturated while Indian market is growing, and beginning to explode. SS - What strengths & weaknesses do you see in the industry? How would the weaknesses be converted into strengths? AS - AS There is immense scope of growth and excellence- only if one considers entertainment industry as an industry, and not just as entertainment. Being considered as an industry gets certain strengths which are not otherwise possible. There is no dearth of talent and enthusiasm, so those strengths are already there.
ADVERTISERS’ INDEX Company
Page#
Product
URL
Anutone
AS-2
Interiors
info@anutone.com
www.anutone.com
Bosch
SS-3
Sound
boschsecuritysystems@in.bosch.com www.electrovoice.com
Bose
SS-52
Sound
prosales@boseindia.com
Broadcast India
SS-41
Tradeshow saicomtradefairs@vsnlcom
www.broadcastindiashow.com
Camco
OS-2
Amplifiers info@sungroup.net
www.reliableamps.com
Christie Digital
SS-5
Projectors sales.singapore@christiedigital.com www.christiedigital.com
Hi Tech Audio
SS-7
Sound
rajan@hitechaudiosystems.com
www.hitechaudiosystems.com
MRH Digital
SS-9
Sound
sales@mrhdigital.com
www.mrhdigital.com
Pro Sound & Light
SS-50
Tradeshow info@buysellint.com
www.cinematoday.in
Sennheiser
SS-2
Sound
www.sennheiserindia.com
Shure
SS-51
Microphone info@sungroup.net
www.shure.com
Silance
OS-3
Acoustics
windoor@vsnl.net
www.windoor.in
Sonodyne
SS-19,21 Sound
response.sonodyne.com
www.sonodyne.com
info@sennheiserindia.com
www.boseindia.com
The next issue of SS is a Summer Special promoted at Cinema Today and Pro Sound & Light, India The advertisement timeline is 15 April 2010. Email: bobby@sandy.in
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