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Thursday, April 30, 2009

Unique AutoSports South Grand Opening Features System Headed By Martin Audio Components

“We needed a system that would be powerful, clean, sound great, easily fill up the large concrete space and handle national-caliber acts." - Harold Cummings, Drummer Boy Sound Productions

The recent grand opening of Will Castro’s luxurious new Unique AutoSports South in Miami was a red carpet celebrity event in every sense of the word, with Harold Cummings’ Drummer Boy Sound Productions, working with producer KGP Services, providing sound reinforcement featuring Martin Audio components.

The event was hosted by Miami Heat All-Star Jermaine O’Neal and included appearances by musical guests and sports greats, and it confirmed the ongoing growth of Castro’s burgeoning automotive enterprise that was recently featured on the Speed Channel’s “Unique Whips.“The grand opening and large space presented Cummings with challenges.

“We needed a system that would be powerful, clean, sound great, easily fill up the large concrete space and handle national-caliber acts,” he says.

With that in mind, Cummings opted for a Martin Audio Blackline H3+ horizontal three-way enclosure on each side of the stage, two Blackline S218+ subs, and four Blackline F12+’s, all powered by Martin Audio MA2.8 and MA4.2 amps.

With four Martin Audio LE1200S monitors on stage, the rest of the sound system consisted of an APB-DynaSonics H1020 mixing console, an Ashly Protea 4.24C processor and Klark Teknik equalizers.

“We used about 6,000 square feet of the entire 10,000 square foot area, and those speakers made the entire room vibrate. When you walked into the space, you could hear the stage speakers, but, with the F12s for the surround, the sound was perfectly balanced throughout the room,” Cummings notes. “I was pleasantly surprised at the power and easy setup. Afterwards, Will Castro told us that he loved everything and the sound was amazing.”

Martin Audio Website

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Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Ashly Audio NE Series Amplifier Drive New System At University Of Wisconsin’s Knowles Center

The sound system is used for background music throughout most of the day, and during track events, it provides a mix of background music and announcements

The Knowles Physical Education Center, a large multi-purpose facility on the campus of the University of Wisconsin – River Falls was recently outfitted with a new sound reinforcement systemdesigned and installed by Burnsville, Minnesota-based Intermedia Systems Group (ISG), and featuring Ashly Audio NE-series network and DSP-enabled amplifiers.

In addition to hosting graduation ceremonies, which seat 3,000, the Knowles Center hosts indoor track events and physical education classes. When not used for those purposes, the university opens it up to the community, consistent with the “Wisconsin idea” of public service.

Thus, the sound system is used for background music throughout most of the day. During track events, it provides a mix of background music and announcements.

Joel Evermann, systems consultant at ISG, provided the new system with Shure wireless microphones, an iPod dock, and radio and CD inputs. A Biamp Nexia CS provides a “front end” for the system, including input selection and processing.

From there, a single, two-rack space, eight-channel Ashly NE8250 provides power for eight Community R.5 full-range loudspeakers. A two-channel Ashly NE1600 provides the low-end power for a pair of Community CPL55 subwoofers.

The Ashly NE-series amplifiers provide speaker processing using two SHARC 32-bit/96 kHz chips each. Ashly’s features allow for musical equalization, filtering, delay and dynamics algorithms to perfectly tune the speakers to the room.

“In addition to the usual budgetary constraints, we were also quite limited in terms of space,” said Evermann. “Being able to cram so many channels of high power amplification into just four rack spaces was critical.”

The Ashly NE-series amplifiers ship network ready and are designed to work with “plug and play” reliability. Indeed, that fits nicely with ISG’s emphasis on “the IT side of things, in addition to traditional audio/visual work,” in Evermann’s words.

He continued, “Networking audio systems cuts down tremendously on travel costs. Service is easier from the installer’s standpoint and less costly for the client. Network ready devices, such as the NE-series amps, have definitely expanded horizons for contractors and users alike.”

With the new system up and running, UW River Falls technicians no longer worry about dropped audio, whether it’s during an important graduation speech, a track event, or open gym time. “We really hit the performance they wanted under the budget they required,” concluded Evermann. “The whole thing is transparent, compact, and user-friendly. It’s the kind of sound system that just does what it’s supposed to do.”

Ashly Audio Website

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Tuesday, April 28, 2009

SSi Audio Utilizes Dynacord Components For 2009 World Curling Championships In Canada

The system specified by Forster and SSi comprised four flown main arrays – two inner arrays for the main PA and one array each for both the stage left and right PA

SSi Audio of New Brunswick, Canada recently provided Dynacord as the key sound reinforcement components for the 2009 Ford World Men’s Curling Championship in Moncton, New Brunswick at the city’s premier arena, the 6,000-seat Moncton Coliseum.

It marked the first time in 15 years that a Canadian city had hosted the prestigious event, with SSi owner Lee Forster serving as system tech and designer.

“We were contracted by the City of Moncton, as their exclusive vendor for audio,” says Forster, “and when it came down to designing the system, we felt the (Dynacord) Cobra 4 portable line array would fit the venue perfectly, which it did. We’re a Dynacord house, and have had great success with these systems.”

The system specified by Forster and SSi comprised four flown main arrays – two inner arrays for the main PA and one array each for both the stage left and right PA. Comprised of Top, Far, and PWH sub boxes, all powered and controlled via a dedicated drive rack, the Cobra 4 offers an exceptional performance to size ratio, along with wide, deep coverage.

“We used boxes from a total of three Cobra 4 systems, combined and configured using the Cobra presets in EASE,” says Forster. “The two main hangs comprise two Cobra-4-Fars and three Cobra-4-Tops. We chose that configuration because we needed to shoot sound across the ice to the spectators on the opposite side of the arena.”

The stage-right PA comprised only three Tops, but because the system’s stage-left PA also needed to cover a nearby balcony in the arena, Forster designed the line with two Fars and three Top boxes as near-fills, widely splayed due to their proximity to the balcony. Three Dynacord System Racks per side rounded out SSi’s system. The rig was powered by a total 16 Dynacord amplifiers.

In addition to equipment from Dynacord, 10 Electro-Voice FM1202 stage wedges acted as monitors for the event, the wedges rested on a temporary stage that held room for a 90-piece orchestra, a 30-piece big band, and numerous solo performers. The entire system provided the arena an unprecedented level of performance and sonic quality.

“The organizers told me it was the best that arena had ever sounded,” says Forster. “They were very pleased with what we were able to put together with our equipment. And I agree, the coverage from the sound system was one of the best parts of the event, and the intelligibility was astounding. It was a pretty impressive performance from a relatively compact array.”

Ian Fowler of the City of Moncton commented: “The City of Moncton was very pleased with the sound production coordinated by SSI Audio for the Curling Tattoo as part of the Ford World Men’s Curling Championships. The SSI team provided exceptional service, the sound quality was clear and each act was mixed to perfection.”

Dynacord Website
Bosch Communications Website
SSi Audio Website

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Crest Audio Shipping New CC 5500 Power Amplifier

Provides 5,500 watts of power at 4 ohms in bridged mono mode

The Crest Audio CC Series of power amplifiers has been joined by the new CC 5500, based upon the company’s Pro 200 Series technology and utilizing a linear power supply. It provides 5,500 watts of power at 4 ohms in bridged mono mode.

All CC Series amplifiers offer Crest Audio-designed toroidal transformers as well as tunnel-cooled heat sinks, variable-speed DC fans and extensive protection circuitry for superior efficiency into difficult loads and power conditions.

Further, the CC 5500 also boasts 16 power devices per channel plus a switched-rail class H output stage and triple-compound design to provide low distortion and thermal stability.

The CC 5500 is available now from authorized Crest Audio dealers.

Overview:
* 5,500 watts into 4 ohms in Bridged Mono mode
* 2,750 watts per channel into 2 ohms
* 1,800 watts per channel into 4 ohms
* 1,150 watts per channel into 8 ohms
* Temperature control via two back-to-front, variable-speed DC fans
* Combination XLR and 1/4-inch TRS inputs
* Binding posts and Speakon® outputs
* ACL, signal, active and temp LED indicators
* 2RU
* 47 lbs

Crest Audio Website

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Monday, April 27, 2009

QSC Components Drive New System For Holland’s The Mail Company Dance Venue

The sound system would not only need to be sufficiently versatile but display wide dispersion characteristics that would provide even coverage internally

Situated just 20 minutes outside Amsterdam, The Mail Company is a bar/restaurant which transposes effortlessly into a 600-capacity dance venue on weekend nights, occupying the site of a former post office in Z, which was converted 21 years ago.

Owned by the Hiemstra family in the town of Zaandam, Holland for the past 14 years (and fronted by son, Nick), the venue recently underwent a major overhaul of its interior infrastructure, including the sound system and multimedia to keep it at the cutting edge.

The venue’s resident turntablist, DJ Frenz (real name Frans Eehoorn) had recommended Milco Merk of Merk Lighting, whose work can be seen regularly both around the clubs and hotels of Amsterdam as well as out of the festival circuit.

The Mail Company is divided into two distinct rooms, on either side of the DJ booth, with a separate, low-level café at front of house. Merk knew that the sound system would not only need to be sufficiently versatile but display wide dispersion characteristics that would provide even coverage internally and keep the place rocking with Top 40 and House music until 6 am on the weekends.

At the same time containment was an issue in view of its town center location. Thus careful speaker placement was essential to focus the sound internally.

Merk and his company will shortly be installing a QSC BASIS 914lz through a QSControl.net network, to enable amplifier monitoring over Ethernet, to complement the pre-programmable NAC-100 network audio controllers (sited at the bar and the DJ booth). “It’s important that we can health check the system online and at the same time give the staff local remote access via a simple, custom-created user interface,” he says.

For his primary system he opted for two compact QSC WideLine 8 line array systems, with hangs of three WL3082 enclosures flown above the booth seating in the main room.  He then turned to QSC’s ModularDesign range, deploying six QSC MD-S215 (2 x 15in) subs, stacked in pairs and recessed into the three support columns, spaced along the edge of the restaurant areas.

Sitting above and set back are two pairs of QSC MD F152/64r loudspeakers, arrayed and bracketed together in trapezoidal ‘wedge’ clusters to provide equally wide coverage.

“These provide enormous power and are perfect for smaller environments,” says Merk, who has manufactured his own custom brackets for the purpose. “We have rotated the 60-degree horn vertically to give it more spread, and inverted it, with the 12-inch LF transducer at the top.”

Infill duties are handled by ten QSC AD-CI52ST recessed ceiling speakers are divided between the two rooms in a distributed system, run off a four-channel CX254.

Stepping down to the front café are five QSC AcousticDesign AD-S82H loudspeakers providing coverage at front-of-house, while further AD-S52 loudspeakers provide background sound in the hallway and restrooms.

Finally, in the highly-specified DJ booth are a pair of QSC AD-S282H (with dual 8in high-powered woofers) providing the DJs with generous reference sound.

All the loudspeakers receive separate feeds via series of low impedance two-channel QSC CX amplifiers. These include CX702, CX502 and CX1102 amplifiers, while a pair of QSC PowerLight PL380 amplifiers run the WideLine 8 LF and a PL325 powers the top end.

Stored away at the rear of the venue, in preparation for the summer, when the Mail Company’s activities can extend outside onto the terrace, are four QSC HPR153i powered loudspeakers - a portable system perfect for those big national events such as Queen’s Day.

Nick Hiemstra says the club’s conversion - from grand café to the town’s leading dance venue - is far from finished. The family has already sold the second floor of its premises (which had been trading as a separate club) and next year plans to purchase the remainder of the adjacent post office building; then they will knock through to create an ever larger space.

QSC Audio Website

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TSI-Global Installs Crown, BSS Audio As Backbone Of Distributed System At New York’s New Citi Field

System also includes audio networking via Harman’s HiQnet configuration and control protocol

Citi Field in Queens, New York, the new 42,000-plus-seat home of the New York Mets franchise of Major League Baseball, is outfitted with widespread distributed system featuring Crown CTs amplifiers and BSS Audio Soundweb London processors as well as audio networking via Harman’s HiQnet configuration and control protocol.

The system was installed by TSI-Global, based in St. Charles, Missouri, and includes 160 CTs 3000 amplifiers, along with 61 CTs 1200 and 19 CTs 2000 amps with PIP-Lite Modules to power all main bowl speakers, club areas, suites, concession stands, restrooms and entrances.

“CTs amplifiers were recommended by the design consultant WJHW. For a large fixed installation such as this one, they gave us great flexibility for the various areas in the stadium,” stated Paul Murdick, vice president at TSI-Global. 

All CTs series amplifiers offer integration with HiQnet System Architect and CobraNet. “With Harman components, the ability to control and configure your audio system with HiQnet is a major advantage.  When you are dealing with a project of this size, the ability to have your amplifiers perform efficiently while networked is invaluable,” added Murdick.

BSS Audio Soundweb London processors were also deployed in the Citi Field installation. Twenty BLU-120, 14 BLU-160, 10 BLU-80, and eight BLU-800 devices handled control of all stadium audio.

“When you look at sound systems at stadiums across the country you’ll find BSS Audio is a name that will continue to appear.  With the Soundweb London products you get great quality and value. Plus they are incredibility easy to program and that is essential in a large venue,” stated Murdick.

Soundweb London devices also offer configurable I/O, CobraNet audio, and fully configurable signal processing.

Overall, Murdick pointed to the great relationship TSI-Global maintains with Harman. “In any major fixed installation such as this one there are challenges,” he said.  “We were fortunate enough to start with a great design through our consultant and great equipment. The service and on-site support we received from Harman was second to none and helped make this project as seamless as possible.” 

TSI-Global group president Troy Bost added that this will be one of many large-scale projects that TSI will be taking on. “We plan on forging ahead with many strategic large venue projects and their success will be reliant not only on our talented team but the successful partnerships with companies such as Harman.”

Crown Website
BSS Website
HiQnet Website
Harman Professional Website

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Friday, April 24, 2009

SLS Production Deploys JBL VerTec For Dubai Desert Rock Festival

This year’s show placing an emphasis on heavy metal acts, with performers including Motorhead, Nervecell, Arch Enemy, Opeth, Chimaira and August Burns Red

SLS Production of Dubai recently provided concert sound reinforcement services for Dubai Desert Rock Festival 2009, the 10th year for the concert series, with the sound reinforcement system featuring an extensive range of JBL Professional VerTec line array models.

Dubai Desert Rock Festival 2009 took place at the Dubai Festival City, with this year’s show placing an emphasis on heavy metal acts. Performers included Motorhead, Nervecell, Arch Enemy, Opeth, Chimaira and August Burns Red. Additional performers included Hatred from Germany and Scarab from Egypt, both of whom won entry by winning the “United We Rock” and “United We Rock/Middle East Edition,” respectively. This year’s event drew a crowd of more than 7,000 fans.

The main PA system featured left-right line array hangs, with each side including 12 JBL VT4889 full-size line array elements, three VT4887A compact line array elements and six VT4880 full-size arrayable subwoofers.

For additional low-end support, SLS deployed two ground stacks in front of the stage, each containing 12 VT4880A ultra-long excursion, dual 18-inch arrayable subwoofers. Two arrays of two VT4888 midsize line array elements provided in-fill coverage, with eight VT4888 loudspeakers providing out-fill coverage.

Additional arrays of VT4887 loudspeakers were used for side fills. Crown Macro-Tech amplifiers powered the system.

SLS Production has provided sound reinforcement for the Dubai Desert Rock Festival for the past several years “We first added VerTec to our inventory eight years ago and we have had no regrets about that decision,” said Girish Yerunkar, Sales Manager for SLS Production. “We have gradually expanded our rental stock and today we have the largest rental sound system in the entire Gulf region and can cater to concerts of 350,000 people, maximum.”

For more information on SLS Production, go to www.slspro.net

JBL Professional Website

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Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Danley Loudspeakers Deliver Concert Sound With Fidelity At East West Church

Pro Audio Solutions Director of Contracting Scott Oliver notes that his firm's overall design goals for East West Church were not unlike those for recording studios

East West Church in Marietta, Georgia recently moved its dynamic, contemporary worship services to a family life center, with Nashville-based Pro Audio Solutions contracted to put together a high-end sound reinforcement system worthy of the church’s technically-polished and inspired services.

Pro Audio Solutions Director of Contracting Scott Oliver notes that his firm’s overall design goals for East West Church were not unlike those for recording studios, and he has found that Danley Sound Labs loudspeakers and subs backed up by Danley amps and DSPs meet those goals gracefully.

“I like working with Danley because the people over there are truly passionate about what they do,” Oliver said. “They live it, and it’s obvious in the performance of their products.”

Oliver chose to place two Danley SH-50s on each side of the room for a combined 100 by 50-degree dispersion pattern that covers most of the seats on the main floor with distinct left-right imaging.

A single Danley SH-95 hanging below each of those clusters provides stereophonic front fill. For the balcony, Oliver again relied on a left-right pair of Danley SH-95s. He then “goosed” the system with a pair of Danley TH-115 subwoofers, one each on the floor below the main clusters.

Danley DSLA amplifiers power the system, and a pair of Danley DSLP48 digital loudspeaker management systems provide sonically pure processing on the front-end.

“The system still would have sounded great if I had gone with other manufacturers’ amps and processing, but I’ve found that when I use Danley from top to bottom, everything is perfectly matched,” said Oliver. “It sounds that much better.” Because the Danley cabinets are so efficient and don’t require bi or even tri-amping, Oliver was able to keep the amplifier and processing expenses to a minimum.

At the front of house position, Oliver provided East West Church with a Tascam DM4800 digital mixing console. In addition, Ashly 4.24GS Digital Graphic EQs along with an Ashly 4.24RD Remote Control were installed to provide eight channels of equalization for the floor monitors. Noted Oliver, “Ashly products are very well-made, easy to use, and sound great.”

The front platform is populated with Heil large-diaphragm dynamic microphones. All vocalists sing into Heil PR22s and all guitars convey to the larger system through Heil PR30s. A PR22 covers the saxophone.

“The Heil microphones are one of a kind,” he said. “The large diaphragm imparts a ‘studio condenser’ feel to the sound, but they are rugged enough to endure punishment for years and years, week after week.  Their clarity is over the top and complements the honesty of the Danley system nicely.”

Danley Sound Labs Website

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Tuesday, April 07, 2009

Ashly Audio Expands NE (Network Enabled) Series Of Power Amplifiers With Three New Models

The ne800, ne1600 and ne2400 – respectively delivering 400W, 800W and 1200W per channel at four ohms – offer easy setup, control and monitoring using standard 10/100 Ethernet protocol and Ashly’s Protea NE software. They may optionally be factory-fitted with Protea DSP, an AES/EBU digital input module and enabled for CobraNet or EtherSound network audio

Ashly Audio has expanded its NE (Network Enabled) Series of Ethernet-equipped products with three new two-channel power amplifiers that are designed to meet the needs of the performance installed sound and constant voltage markets.

The ne800, ne1600 and ne2400 – respectively delivering 400W, 800W and 1200W per channel at four ohms – offer easy setup, control and monitoring using standard 10/100 Ethernet protocol and Ashly’s Protea NE software. They may optionally be factory-fitted with Protea DSP, an AES/EBU digital input module and enabled for CobraNet or EtherSound network audio.

As standard, the new NE Series two-channel amplifiers include balanced analog inputs accessed via XLR and Euroblock connectors with Speakon/Euroblock output connectors.

Rear panel features include Ethernet access for Protea NE software control, DC voltage level control using an Ashly WR-1 wall-mount remote or equivalent, as well as remote power standby, plus switches for bridged mono mode, input sensitivity (26 dB, 36 dB or 1.4V) and an 80 Hz high-pass filter. Balanced analog aux outputs on XLR and Euroblock connectors provide buffered signals matching the inputs.

With the optional DSP module factory-fitted, and using PC-based Protea NE software, each amplifier input channel can be configured with DSP blocks that provide independent dynamics control, gain functions, graphic and/or parametric EQ, high and low-pass filters, time delay, metering and test signal generator.

The same DSP functions, with the addition of a fast, automated crossover setup, may also be applied to the outputs. Any input may be assigned to drive any or all amplifier outputs via the software matrix mixer.

With the optional Protea DSP module fitted, any input source, including AES/EBU, CobraNet, or EtherSound (if optionally fitted), may be routed to the aux outputs to drive other power amplifiers. Additionally, DSP blocks may be independently configured for each aux output as well as for the two main amplifier channels.

Software functionality also includes the ability to copy input and output settings to other channels. Up to 35 presets/sub presets of global and individual channel parameters and DSP configurations can be stored within the amplifier, and can be recalled in real-time via Ethernet from a computer using Protea NE software.

The factory-installed AES/EBU input module option allows two channels of 48kHz or 96kHz digital audio to be transmitted over a single cable, providing a fully digital signal path all the way to the power amplifier

With the optional CobraNet module – a combination of software, hardware and network protocol – fitted with any NE two-channel amplifier, may be included in a networked digital audio distribution system.

Ashly Audio Website

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Bosch Communications Systems Division Hosts International “EV PA Roundup” in Houston

The event was timed to coincide with the three-week-long Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo at Reliant Park—attended by around 1.8 million people annually—where one of the world’s largest Electro-Voice X-Line sound systems is deployed annually by Houston-based EV partners LD Systems

More than 120 pro audio professionals from around the world gathered in Houston, Texas in mid March to attend the Electro-Voice PA Roundup, an audio expo hosted by the Bosch Communications Systems Division.

The event was timed to coincide with the three-week-long Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo at Reliant Park—attended by around 1.8 million people annually—where one of the world’s largest Electro-Voice X-Line sound systems is deployed annually by Houston-based EV partners LD Systems for the biggest live concert event series in the world (with a total annual attendance of around 1.2 million).

The system at Reliant Stadium includes 112 EV X-Line boxes powered by an equal number of EV P3000RL and TG-7 remote control amplifiers running IRIS-Net control and supervision software. For the first time in 2009, all system processing was via EV NetMax with FIR-drive.

The PA Roundup’s wide-ranging program of seminars, demonstrations, and presentations was held at LD Systems’ state-of-the-art, 85,000 square-foot facility, where the EV team brought guests up to date on the latest leading-edge audio technologies, including FIR-drive, NetMax N8000-1500 processing, EV transducers, amplifiers, and rigging, and a preview of IRIS-Net V2.0 system control and supervision software. The new PRO6 mixing console from Midas was also on hand.

The event saw a gathering of EV engineering, product management, and sales team members on an unprecedented scale for an event of this kind. Along with the familiar faces of senior EV Engineers, Product Managers, and Tech Support personnel, attendees were introduced to the young engineering talents behind some of the company’s most recent audio innovations.

The overarching theme for the event was partnership. To that effect, LD Systems’ Rob McKinley and Robert Ausmus gave a detailed presentation on their long association with the Houston Rodeo, describing how they continue to raise the bar for audio production there year after year with EV systems and hands-on support from the EV team.

The Q&A session focused on the IRIS-Net and NetMax processing and control solutions that have radically streamlined LD’s hardware deployment for the rodeo while vastly improving sonic performance. Following that, guests headed to 73,000-capacity Reliant Stadium to hear LD’s efforts first hand for a night at the rodeo followed by Clint Black live in concert.

In addition, special guests Phil Scobee of Morris Entertainment and Harry Witz of Clair Global gave presentations covering their groundbreaking work with EV at the highest level of touring. Scobee walked guests through his X-Line/NetMax/IRIS-Net system design for the Kenny Chesney tour – the largest touring EV rig in the world; Witz shared stories from his long association with EV and discussed his latest X-Array system design for AC/DC’s mammoth Black Ice world tour, currently underway.

“These are obviously challenging times in our industry,” says Thomas Hansen, VP Americas, Communications Systems Division, Bosch Security Systems, “but Bosch is being pro-active about the positive aspects – providing solutions with which our customers can grow and, of course, getting together and having a good time. The enthusiasm our customers showed by flying in from all around the world showed we’re on track; it’s important for them to have confidence in us and the equipment we produce, and our engineering team demonstrated that they are the best around. Phil Scobee and Harry Witz were, as always, great ambassadors for the brand, and their stories showed the heights we can achieve together. We would like to thank our friends at LD Systems for their superb hospitality and for being exemplary partners – there’s no better way to show EV at its best than by coming to Houston during the rodeo.”

Electro-Voice Website

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Thursday, April 02, 2009

Crown Audio Debuts HiQnet Band Manager Software App For Portable PA System Configuration & Control

Band Manager unlocks all loudspeaker processing capabilities of Crown XTi Series amplifiers

Delivering a sound management solution to the portable PA market at the 2009 ProLight+Sound/Muzikmesse in Frankfurt, Crown Audio has introduced HiQnet Band Manager software, a free-of-charge application providing a sleek function-driven interface designed to simplify system setup and management while enabling audio professionals, musicians, and engineers to configure and control a rack of Crown XTi series amplifiers. 

Band Manager unlocks all loudspeaker processing capabilities of the XTi Series. Once it automatically discovers up to eight USB-connected XTi amplifiers, represented in a virtual rack, all the setup required is to load each amplifier with the JBL-provided loudspeaker tunings and set which amplifiers are driving front-of-house. 

Band Manager makes smart use of browser-style navigation and the ‘Home’ screen displays monitor strips for each amplifier in the rack and front-of-house EQ and level control.  EQ for stage monitors and all other processing is accessible on an individual amplifier basis. 

Upon starting Band Manager, all amplifier settings are transferred from the connected devices but they can also be saved to disk for quick recall if the rack is used often in multiple venues. 

Band Manager is a cut-down version of its parent software, HiQnet System Architect, a much larger application which provides full-system control of over 70 professional audio devices from across the entire Harman Pro group, including the XTi Series. 

Anyone who has already used System Architect with the XTi will instantly be familiar with the amplifier control layout since Band Manager makes use of the same software plug in. 

Directly tailoring Band Manager to the needs of portable PA market enables far quicker configuration of a rack of XTi amplifiers by bringing only the essential tools into direct focus.  For those who need the more advanced control, any rack configurations saved within Band Manager can be opened in System Architect. 

By using the plug in concept, Band Manager is all ready to control other future portable PA HiQnet devices.

Commenting on the introduction of Band Manager, Andy Flint, Crown marketing manager for portable PA, stated, “Band Manager provides users with a simple and intuitive interface capable of unlocking the vast array of system setup and management tools included in the XTi product line’s integrated processing.  This is another excellent example of Harman’s experience and dedication to the portable PA market.”

While Band Manager is being introduced to operate in conjunction with Crown XTi amplifiers it is planned to take control of other complimentary Harman HiQnet products in the near future. 

“As a group, we envision Band Manager being used to manage an entire portable PA sound system all the way from microphone to speaker.  When introducing software control, making the management of a potentially complex audio system as simple as possible is the most important goal.  It is no longer enough to just provide the user with the highest quality equipment, you need to offer great, user-friendly tools to open its potential as well,” added Flint.

Crown Audio Website

Take our Photo Gallery Tour of new products from this year’s Prolight + Sound - Musikmesse

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QSC Audio Introduces New Powered, Portable K Series Loudspeakers

“The K Series has been designed entirely without compromise, from the ground up. QSC has departed from convention and at the same time exploded a myth that smaller woofers must equate to lower performance." - Ray van Straten, QSC Director of Entertainer Solutions

New QSC Audio K Series powered loudspeakers combine molded ABS enclosures, uniformly matched drivers, 1,000-watt Class-D amplification, advanced DSP, and QSC’s touring spec amplification in a single package. The line is comprised of four models - K8, K10, K12, and KSub (dual-12-inch subwoofer). 

QSC Director of Entertainer Solutions Ray van Straten states, “The K Series has been designed entirely without compromise, from the ground up. QSC has departed from convention and at the same time exploded a myth that smaller woofers must equate to lower performance.

“Competitors will typically use the highest power amplifier and the best quality drivers in the largest format model, while designing their smaller format models with lower power amplification and lesser performing components. This allows them to reduce the price of the smaller models, further propagating the myth that a smaller woofer enclosure necessitates lower performance.”

He continues, “Apart from using the same amp module across the line, we are also using the same quality woofer motor in all four models, and the same 1.75-inch HF device in the three 2-way enclosures. The primary differentiator is the resulting output dispersion — the K8 being the widest at 105 degrees and the K12 the narrowest at 75 degrees. The choice for the customer then is not ‘good, better, best’, but ‘best, best, best’ — and ‘How wide a box do I need?’”

This approach is achievable due to a process called Directivity Matched Transition DMT, which allows QSC to take advantage of a fundamental law of acoustics — smaller diameter woofers have wider coverage patterns than larger ones. QSC has simply matched the HF device to the LF dispersion, allowing for the smoothest and flattest frequency response possible across the entire sound field.

Add to this advanced DSP processing and an enclosure molded from ABS — a material far more rugged and sonically pleasing than conventional plastics —  and the K Series delivers a completely new standard of performance in this category of loudspeakers.

Several proprietary QSC DSP technologies are incorporated into the K Series. One such technology is Digital Extension and Excursion Processing (DEEP).

DEEP allows each of the K Series models to deliver levels of low-frequency extension, hitherto impossible in enclosures of this size.

Intrinsic Correction, first featured in QSC line-array technology, utilizes dozens of spatially-averaged measurements, mapped to the processor to deliver smooth and accurate reproduction across the entire sound field.

Preventing amplifier clipping or overload is QSC’s proprietary GuardRail technology, also present in their popular GX amplifier line. GuardRail closely monitors the input voltage and controls the amplifier output stage before the onset of clipping.

Unlike typical clip limiters, when GuardRail is activated, the results are all but undetectable – there’s none of the typical ‘pumping’ associated with other methods. In addition, user EQ controls are provided to select between application settings (EXTSUB, VOCAL, or FLAT response).

K Series boasts other user-friendly features. For example, when speakers are pole-mounted, the Tilt-Direct pole socket converts to a 7.5-degree down-tilt with a simple 180 degrees rotation of the dial. A locking IEC power cord is included, preventing accidental disconnect during a performance.

For installed applications, connecting a commonly available potentiometer to the unit allows the operator to obtain gain control from a remote location. Multiple K Series units can also be daisy-chained together to one centralized control.

Additionally, the K Series enters standby mode after five minutes of inactivity, both conserving power and enhancing ease of use.

The entire package is housed in rugged and sonically-friendly ABS (the sub in birch plywood) with steel grilles (2-way models) and carry-friendly ergonomic aluminum handles. The KSub also features low-noise casters for easy transport.

K12
The K12 is a 12-inch two-way system with 75-degree horizontal and vertical coverage. Low frequencies extend to 48 Hz (-10 dB high acoustic output, 131 dB peak). This low-frequency extension makes the K12 the ideal choice for music playback and live reinforcement of instruments, especially in venues where a more directional speaker is needed. Equally at home in the stage monitor role, the K12 enclosure has an angled side for use as a low-profile, horizontal wedge and a flat side for proper side-fill use.

K10
The K10 is unlike other 10-degree powered loudspeaker systems, sharing the same amplification, HF device and low-frequency driver of the same high quality as its big brother, and offering 90-degree (conical) coverage and 129 dB peak output (low frequencies extending to 56 Hz. The K10 offers unprecedented power and performance from an extremely compact system, which can also be used as an ultra low-profile, horizontal wedge or sidefill. 

K8
The extremely compact size of this 8-inch powered loudspeaker won’t intrude on audience sightlines. Its 105-degree wide dispersion is a major advantage when the audience is up close to the loudspeaker. Low frequencies extend to 61 Hz (-10 dB) and the unit outputs an amazing 127 dB.

KSub
For live reinforcement of bass instruments and drums, or higher level playback of recorded music, the KSub is the ideal supplement to the K Series two-way models — an M20 threaded pole socket (pole included) provides a secure, wobble-free method of elevating a mid-high speaker over the subwoofer.

A pair of high-power 12-inch speakers in an optimized bandpass enclosure will handle everything the 1,000 watt power module can give them. Compact in size, and ergonomically designed, thoughtfully placed handles, noise-free casters along with an available accessory cover ease load-in and load-out.

Processing, Connectivity & Monitoring
While the DSP functions are optimized using Intrinsic Correction, DEEP, DMT and GuardRail technologies (with the high-pass filter included for use with subwoofer systems), two XLR-combo inputs, each with its own level control, are also provided.

Both accommodate line-level inputs and one may be switched to microphone level sensitivity. Phono (RCA) input jacks are also included for connection of consumer electronics sources (2-way models only). Dual XLR outputs are provided for dual ‘loop-thru’ XLR/M connectors and a single XLR jack is available as a summed output.

All three input sources may be utilized at once and mixed via the two gain control knobs (2-way boxes only).

Input Panel LED indicators are provided for power, signal present, mic level sensitivity and limit annunciation. A front-mounted power LED may be disabled by means of a rear panel switch when desired, or set so it indicates when the limit circuitry has been engaged.

Waveguide
Each K model incorporates a conical waveguide that maintains pattern control all the way down to the crossover frequency. The coverage angles of the waveguides are tailored for a smooth transition from woofer to compression driver with far less ‘waist-banding’ or other directivity related anomalies than other products in this class.

Suspension and Mounting
The K Series two-way models may be pole-mounted, suspended or yoke mounted. The K8, K10 and K12 yoke accessory kits allow for either horizontal or vertical yoke mounting, providing a flexible means of attaching K Series loudspeakers to a building structure or truss.

When suspended deployment is required, M10 threaded inserts support vertical or horizontal suspension, while the integral pole mount socket accommodates 35mm speaker poles for use on a speaker stand or over a sub.

The pole socket is designed so that the speaker may be angled down 7.5 degrees in order to cover the audience while keeping acoustic energy off reflective walls and ceilings.

Accompanied by a complete range of accessories, padded carrying bags and various mounting accessories, K Series products provide a consummate package for the AV rental, installation, MI and DJ markets.

Principle Product Features
° 1,000 watt, efficient and lightweight Class-D power module
° Light weight (27 lbs. - 41 lbs. 2-way, 74 lbs. KSub)
° Professional appearance and rugged construction
° Directivity Matched Transition (DMT) and Intrinsic Correction DSP tuning for accurate, undistorted performance across the entire sound field
° GuardRail technology discreetly protects the system from damaging overload
° DEEP mode for enhanced low-frequency extension without a subwoofer
° Locking IEC power cable
° XLR and 1/4-inch connectors
° Phone mic/line and line inputs with loop-thru connectors and independent level controls.
° Phono (RCA) inputs (2-way units)
° Three 2-way models – each with coverage pattern optimized to match the LF driver
° Front-mounted LED may be switched off or to indicate ‘LIMIT’ or AC Power On
° Dual angle, 35 mm pole socket with Tilt-Direct™ allows the speaker to be angled down to put the energy on the audience instead of the back wall
° Suspension and yoke mounting accessories available
° 4-inch voice-coil woofer design for high output
° 1.75-inch voice-coil compression driver
° High Pass Filter for use with subwoofers
° Subwoofer 1,000 watt, efficient and light-weight Class-D power module
° Dual 12-inch band-pass for compact size, efficiency and high-power handling
° Threaded pole socket for solid, secure pole mounting
° 3” Casters

The K Series will be shipping nationwide in mid-May.

QSC Audio Website

Take our Photo Gallery Tour of new products from this year’s Prolight + Sound - Musikmesse

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JBL Adds To PRX Series With PRX512Mi & PRX718S Powered, Portable Loudspeakers

At the core of the PRX512Mi is a fully integrated DSP input section, providing mic/line level input, selectable system EQ, and a premium A/D converter for a maximum signal-to-noise ratio; the PRX718S features JBL’s proprietary Dual-Bridge Technology (DBT), which directly links discrete amplifier channel outputs with each voice coil in the woofer

JBL Professional has introduced two new additions to its PRX Series, including the PRX512Mi multipurpose powered loudspeaker and the PRX718S high-performance powered subwoofer. These additions bring the total number of models in the PRX Series to seven.

The PRX512Mi is a 12-inch, two-way, truly multipurpose, self-powered loudspeaker system, with a frequency range of 46 Hz to 20 kHz. It includes a 12-inch Differential Drive woofer, a neodymium compression driver mounted to a 70- x 70-degree horn, all driven by a multichannel Crown International Class-D digital power amplifier. The PRX512Mi features 400-watt low-frequency and 100-watt high-frequency amp channels, while weighing only 18 kilos (40 pounds).

At the core of the PRX512Mi is a fully integrated DSP input section, providing mic/line level input, selectable system EQ, and a premium A/D converter for a maximum signal-to-noise ratio. The multipurpose enclosure makes the PRX512Mi ideal as a main PA or stage monitor, while a dual socket pole mount, eight standard M10 suspension points and one M10 pull-back point enables a new level of multi-functionality. 

“The JBL PRX512Mi delivers a true universal solution for gigging musicians, DJs and A/V rental companies alike,” said Simon Jones, Director of Portable PA Marketing, JBL Professional. “It’s compact, powerful, lightweight and highly versatile. It’s the definition of portable PA versatility.”

The PRX718S is an 18-inch, self-powered subwoofer system, offering a frequency range of 33 Hz to 160 Hz, and a power rating of 1,400 watts peak.

In addition to the 18-inch Differential Drive woofer, the PRX718S features JBL’s proprietary Dual-Bridge Technology (DBT), which directly links discrete amplifier channel outputs with each voice coil in the woofer, transferring the maximum amount of power in the most efficient way and improving the speaker’s overall performance. The PRX718S also offers a DSP input section for precise bandwidth control and limiting.

Additional functionality includes a selectable high-pass filter on the stereo loop-through outputs and polarity reversal, all at a weight of 36 kilos (80 pounds), very light compared to competitive subwoofers at this price and power.

“The PRX718S delivers exceptionally accurate low-frequency reproduction right down to 33 Hz and it does so without compromising on portability,” Jones added. “Its performance-to-weight performance is unparalleled, making the PRX718S a truly high-performance, portable PA subwoofer. All in all, the additions of the PRX512Mi and PRX718S provide the successful PRX series with even more power and versatility.”

JBL Professional Website

Take our Photo Gallery Tour of new products from this year’s Prolight + Sound - Musikmesse

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PA Plus Continues Long Standing Heritage With Purchase Of Crown I-Tech HD

When the original I-Tech amplifier was introduced, PA Plus was one of the first sound companies to adopt it

PA Plus, one of Canada’s leading sound reinforcement companies with over 25 years of experience working with major concert tours, nationally televised award shows, and special events, has continued its successful relationship with Crown by purchasing 130 I-Tech HD amplifiers.  .

“The new I-Tech HD series is not only the most advanced amplifier on the planet, its new DSP capabilities rival anything out there. Advancements in voltage limiting technology, the introduction of FIR filtering, overall system control features and unsurpassed functionality put this amplifier in a class of its own,” stated Mark Radu, systems engineer at PA Plus.

PA Plus continues what has been a rich history with Crown. When the original I-Tech amplifier was introduced, PA Plus was one of the first sound companies to adopt it.

“We are proud to continue our long-standing partnership with Crown. Our mandate of providing the best available technology to our clients has been pushed to a higher level with our commitment to the new HD amplifier. Crown has given PA Plus the tools to continue to provide the most advanced solutions on the market,” stated Gabor Szepesi, president and owner of PA Plus.

“We know that Crown relied on input and feedback from some of the most respected names in the live audio industry. Crown has delivered a product that surpasses the demanding expectations of rental and touring companies alike,” added Radu.

Brian Divine, Crown marketing director for tour sound stated, “PA Plus has the reputation of being one of the most well known names in the live sound industry. We recognize the company holds its equipment to the highest standard and we have worked very hard to provide PA Plus with the most feature packed amplifier on the market. “

I-Tech HD features a new user-inspired DSP engine co-developed with BSS called OMNIDRIVEHD. The new processing engine features Linear Phase FIR filters that offer unrivaled crossover performance for sonically pure tunings. The OMNIDRIVEHD processing engine also features an innovative new suite of limiters called LevelMAX.

Harman HiQnet System Architect mirrors the typical browser navigation interface to provide tour sound and contracting professionals with a familiar interface to access a host of power configuration and control functions.

Crown Audio Website

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Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Get Rebates Of Up To $150 On QSC Audio RMX, PLX2 & HPR Products Until July 6, 2009

The rebate program is returning for more calendar dates this year due to high demand

Through July 6 of this year, QSC Audio is offering an extended rebate program providing up to $150 back on select product purchases.

The rebate program applies to a variety of models found within these QSC product groups:
RMX power amplifier
PLX2 power amplifier
HPR loudspeaker

The rebate program is returning for more calendar dates this year due to high demand.

The rebate applies to select models and is backed by a free six-year warranty with online registration.

Valid on purchases made in the U.S. by U.S. residents, the money-back offer can be fulfilled by downloading a coupon online, filling it in, and returning it with required documentation by 7-6-09.

To download the coupon in English click here, and for a Spanish version of the document click here.

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QSC Audio Website

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