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Tuesday, June 30, 2009

The RF Spectrum Before & After The “Big Day”

A look at the spectrum between 500 MHz and 700 MHz

So the big day (June 12, formerly February 17, 2009) came and went, and now we have the results of “the change”.

For those of you living under a rock for the past 10 years, what has happened is that full-power analog TV broadcasts have ceased in most US markets.

At the same time, most of the of spectrum between 698 and 806 MHz, formerly used by TV broadcasts and wireless microphones, now has new owners and is not populated by TV broadcasts any longer.

The legal status of wireless microphone systems in the 700 MHz band is not entirely clear, but the FCC’s intentions appear to be that wireless mics will not be allowed here.

So let’s look at the spectrum between 500 MHz and 700 MHz, covering most what is now available to DTV broadcasts and Part 74 users, including wireless microphone systems.

The first/top image (below) shows this range before the transition, and the second/bottom image (also below) shows the same spectrum after June 12. It is evident that almost all analog sources have disappeared, while only DTV sources remain.

What about using wireless microphone systems in the 700 MHz band?

First, you may still have systems in the 700 MHz band that will continue to operate, until such time as a new, strong signal comes along and interferes.

For many, this may be the right approach: use your equipment until it no longer works. However, keep your eyes open for any announcements about the likely FCC ruling rendering such systems actually illegal.

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Currently, there are few signals in that range, but there are some, and soon there will be more.

For those of us using systems between 470 and 698 MHz, our lives should actually be a bit easier for a while. The spectrum is more open, and we should not see the kinds of rapid changes we have seen over the past couple of years.

DTV transmissions are still being optimized, and broadcasters are recommending that people “do a new scan for channels once a month”. I would suggest the same thing for your wireless microphone systems, to insure that you are steering clear of any potential interference. (But you were doing that already, right?)

As to what will become of the remaining usable spectrum, it’s too early to tell. But as TVBD (TV Band Devices) begin to appear, we’ll certainly learn more.

Signing off for now…
Mike Wireless

Mike Wireless is the nom de plume of a long-time RF geek devoted to better entertainment wireless system practices the world over.

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More posts on PSW by Mike Wireless:
Latest Wireless Series #3: Inside The Lectrosonics D4
Latest Wireless Series #2: Inside The MIPRO ACT Digital
Latest Wireless Series #1: Inside The AKG DMS 700
Is The UHF Spectrum Going To Ease Up After June 12?
Change The Only Constant In Marketplace For Wireless System Spectrum

Also check out:
Basic & Essential: What You Need To Know About Wireless Systems (A Primer)

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Meyer Sound Introduces New JM-1P Arrayable Self-Powered Loudspeaker

The JM-1P delivers controlled coverage while minimizing reverberation in large or reflective acoustical environments

Meyer Sound has introduced the JM-1P arrayable loudspeaker, a self-powered high-Q system designed to integrate seamlessly in tight-packed clusters where horizontal coverage must be predictably scaled to exacting requirements.

Distinguished by its precisely defined 20-degree horizontal by 60-degree vertical pattern, the JM-1P delivers controlled coverage while minimizing reverberation in large or reflective acoustical environments.

With a consistent polar response and trapezoidal enclosure patented by Meyer Sound, the JM-1P delivers optimum performance in tight-packed arrays providing horizontal coverage that is proportional to the number of units deployed.

Single JM-1P cabinets can be used as a point-source system in either horizontal or vertical orientations. The JM-1P is suited to critical quality applications including theatres, houses of worship, theme parks, stadiums, concert halls, and nightclubs. In touring sound, it offers flexible solutions for center- and side-fill systems.

Meyer Sound’s experience in point-source systems dates back to 1980 when John Meyer, CEO of Meyer Sound, patented the trapezoidal cabinet shape with the release of the UPA loudspeaker.

The JM-1P features a Meyer Sound’s patented REM ribbon emulation manifold technology, which results in low distortion and a tight pattern control, while a constant-Q horn ensures a uniform response throughout the coverage area.

The JM-1P’s exceptional power-to-size ratio and flexible Quickfly rigging options allow for easy mounting and flying in a variety of applications. Captive sliding rigging links on the front and back of the cabinet facilitate easy arraying, and optional pickup and array plates are available for flying horizontal arrays of up to five JM-1P cabinets.

A top grid receives links and pins directly from the JM-1P cabinet and allows for flown vertical arrays of up to four cabinets.

“The JM-1P gives sound designers the flexibility to accurately tailor coverage in highly reverberant or oddly shaped environments,” notes John Meyer. “You can conform your horizontal coverage to fit the room, so you maintain a smooth response at all seats while avoiding echoes or excessive reverberation.”

The JM-1P’s precise high-frequency section is driven by a 4-inch diaphragm compression driver, complemented by a 15-inch, long-excursion cone transducer for the low-mid section. Power is supplied by a dual-channel class AB/H amplifier with a total power output of 1275 W (2550 W peak), while onboard processing includes electronic crossover, comprehensive driver protection, and correction filters for flat frequency and phase responses.

Performance of the JM-1P is exemplary in all respects, with a wide operating frequency range of 55 Hz to 18 kHz, and a maximum peak SPL of 136 dB (at 1 m). The optional RMS remote monitoring system allows comprehensive monitoring of system parameters on a Windows-based computer.

The JM-1P can be controlled with the Galileo digital loudspeaker management system and presets for JM-1P arrays will be available to provide mid-bass and bass management.

Designed and manufactured at Meyer Sound headquarters in Berkeley, California, the JM-1P arrayable loudspeaker will begin shipping in August 2009.

Meyer Sound Website

(Be sure to visit PSW’s 2009 InfoComm New Product Gallery.)

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Ultrasone Partners With Griffith Sales Associates For Southeastern U.S. Distribution

Manufacturer’s rep firm to distribute Ultrasone headphones in Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, North/South Carolina and Tennessee

Ultrasone has announced a manufacturer’s representation partnership with Griffith Sales Associates for Southeaster United States distribution.

Griffith Sales Associates has built a reputation as a top distributor for professional audio, video, lighting and musical products.

“We couldn’t be more pleased to have Griffith Sales Associates handling our headphones in the Southeast U.S.,” commented Paul Taylor, President of Ultrasone Inc. “The enthusiasm and energy that they bring to the sales channel is unequalled and we feel our brand will benefit from their experience and professionalism.”

Griffith Sales Associates is based in Georgia and distributes some of the industry’s most prominent audio, video, lighting and musical products in the Southeast United States.

In addition to Ultrasone, Griffith Sales Associates represents Edirol, Tannoy, Audix, Sabine, Chauvet, TC Electronic and other leading manufacturers.

“The clarity and safe listening characteristics of Ultrasone’s headphones are unparalleled in the industry and our associates are thrilled to have the opportunity to represent them,” said Griffith Sales Associates Founder Gene Griffith.  “Our goal is to help Ultrasone become the headphone of choice for all musicians, producers and engineers throughout the Southeast.”

Ultrasone Headphones

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A-Pawling Studio Utilizes SSL AWS 900+ SE To Mix Daryl Hall’s Live Internet Program

The AWS 900+ SE offers full control of the resident Pro Tools HD system

A-Pawling Studio, owned by engineer/mixer Peter Moshay (www.PeterMoshay.com) recently installed a Solid State Logic AWS 900+ SE to replace a digital console.

The AWS 900+ SE offers full control of the resident Pro Tools HD system, while delivering the signature SuperAnalogue sound and mixing capabilities for Daryl Hall’s “Live from Daryl’s House” monthly Internet program.

“I have always craved the sound of an SSL console and the AWS 900+ SE brings that world-class sound to my control room in a footprint that fits my space confines,” says Moshay. “The AWS is a real tool for the real world as I am no longer deciding on sample rates for tracks or worrying about bus headroom running out.

“The AWS always works, even for complex mixes. The sound is great, the headroom is always available and the console truly opens up more creative possibilities with the Pro Tools system. I love this console.”

Heading into the 20th episode, “Live From Daryl’s House” involves capturing both audio and video performances of superstar Daryl Hall performing with guest artists in Daryl’s living room.

Artists like Parachute, KT Tunstall, Travis McCoy of The Gym Class Heroes, Matt Nathanson and, of course, John Oates, and many others have shared the spotlight on this Internet available program.

“This program was conceived by Daryl to get music out to a broader audience based on the premise of sitting down and making live music,” explains Moshay. “Every month we are essentially producing a new record where a wide variety of artists will perform a Hall & Oates or a Daryl song, and a few of the guest group’s songs or just a song everyone likes. The relaxed atmosphere of the production is completely capturing a new audience on the web.

“The AWS provides the high quality sonic foundation necessary to keep this wide-ranging variety of music together. With the AWS, my mixes have more dimension and depth. When I run audio through the console, I know everything will sound good.”

All “Live from Daryl’s House shows are available on the net 24/7 free of charge at http://www.livefromdarylshouse.com. Negotiations are in place to bring the successful series to television.

Solid State Logic Website

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Rick Renner Joins Shure As A U.S. Regional Sales Manager

Responsible for managing sales in Northeast U.S.

Shure Incorporated announced that Rick Renner has joined the company as a Regional Sales Manager, and will be responsible for managing sales for Shure in the Northeast U.S.

“It’s great to have Rick on our team,” said Jim Schanz, Director of U.S. Field Sales. “He brings a proven track record of successful sales experience in pro audio and extensive industry knowledge to our team, which will help us continue to grow our business in the U.S.”

Before joining Shure, Renner served for seven years as Regional Sales Manager and Sales Representative at Sennheiser Electronics Corporation. 

Before that, he was a staff recording engineer at Streeterville Recording Studios in Chicago.

Shure Website

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