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Thursday, June 25, 2009

2009 InfoComm: Tannoy Highlights Additions To VQ Series Of Loudspeakers

The three horn enclosures have been designed to cater for a range of typical applications and offer some industry standard dispersion patterns

At 2009 InfoComm in Orlando, Tannoy highlighted recent additions to its VQ Series of loudspeakers; specifically, three new PSW (Point Source Waveguide) horn formats and a new 15-inch subwoofer module.

The three horn enclosures have been designed to cater for a range of typical applications and offer some industry standard dispersion patterns, namely 40 degree (conical), 60- x 40- and 90- x 50-degree (in vertical position).

These VQ MH (mid/high) horn enclosures can be used in conjunction with the existing VQ products such as the VQ MB, as well as the new VS 15DR sub enclosure, or connected and flown in pairs or larger, tightly packed arrays to offer class-leading full range, wide dispersion coverage.

The new 40-degree conical and 60- x 40-degree horn formats will also be made availabe in the VQ DF down-firing enclosures, to add further flexibility to the existing VQ 85DF (80- x 50-degree dispersion).

Tannoy’s Director of Business Development Graham Hendry explains, “After launching the VQ Series last year, we always planned to expand the range of tools available to the systems designer. This new phase of VQ comes in the form of three new PSW ( patent pending) horn formats and a new 15-inch sub module. The three horn enclosures have been designed to cater for a wide range of typical applications and offer some industry standard dispersion patterns, namely 40-degree (conical), 60- x 40- and 90- x 50-degree (in vertical position).

The modular design approach allows the system designer to create seamless and very predictable arrays which are ‘tight packed’ to avoid any unsightly spaces between cabinets; or they can be used singly as part of large distributed systems.

The new VS 15DR provides an alternative solution to the existing VQ MB (mid-bass) module, in this case utilizing a single direct radiating 15-inch driver which delivers a different level of low frequency performance. Multiple bass enclosures can be stacked together to improve vertical pattern control at low frequencies.

There will also be new DF ‘down-firing’ enclosures with 40- x 40-degree and 60- x 40-degree dispersion patterns, to accompany the existing VQ 85DF and further expand the range of tools available within the VQ Series.

New VQ Series Products:
VQ 40MH
VQ 64MH
VQ 95MH
VQ 40DF
VQ 64DF
VS 15DR

VNET (active DSP, networkable) versions of these products are also planned - more details will be available soon.

Tannoy Website

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

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New Astatic 1600VP Variable Pattern Microphone Offers Remote Polar Control

The variable polar pattern with remote control allows users to precisely adjust the shape of the pick-up pattern to provide the best gain before feedback from a remote location, using the mic cable

At 2009 InfoComm, Astatic introduced the new Astatic 1600VP, a unique continuously-variable pattern condenser hanging microphone system with remote polar control and an anti-rotational positioning mount. 

Designed to hang from ceilings, the 1600VP is highly effective in the recording and sound reinforcement of choirs, instruments and ambient micing, in addition to government, institutional and business applications. A low-profile carbon fiber boom (MB-1) is available for microphone stand mounting.

The remote variable polar pattern control uses a two-conductor shielded cable (maximum length 2,000 feet) between the microphone head and the pattern-control box (VPC-1), giving the installer or end user the ability to change polar patterns when installed, or from scene to scene without inducing noise into the audio chain.

Adjustments to the pick-up pattern can be done ”on the fly“ without costly lifts, ladders and capsules. Special attention has been given to the frequency response and sensitivity of the microphone while utilizing the variable-pattern control to precisely alter the shape of the pick-up pattern.

The large-diameter, low-noise elements produce a frequency response of 40 Hz to 20 KHz with a selectable, recessed 80 Hz,12 dB/octave high-pass filter that removes unwanted low-frequency energy when engaged. The filter control is conveniently located on the control box.

Up to six control boxes can be mounted in one rack unit. The polar-pattern dial is positioned for easy adjustment and can be secured with a single “flat style” blank panel when rack mounted.

Made in the USA, the 1600VP has been designed to resist interference from cell phones, two-way communication devices and lighting apparatus. Using Astatic’s RF Resistant Architecture, the 1600VP meets the stringent RF standards set by the European Union.

Astatic Website

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

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Apogee Electronics Introduces ONE: USB Music Interface & Microphone For Macs

ONE also includes a world-class microphone preamp, an instrument input for guitar, bass, and keyboards, and a studio-quality stereo output for headphones or powered monitors

Apogee Electronics has introduced ONE, a pocket-sized, portable music interface and microphone for Mac systems.

ONE is a single input, stereo output USB music interface designed to work seamlessly with Apple’s iTunes, GarageBand, Logic, Final Cut or any Core Audio compliant application on a Mac.

Unlike any product in its category, ONE features an internal reference condenser microphone, ideal for capturing inspired musical moments. ONE also includes a world-class microphone preamp, an instrument input for guitar, bass, and keyboards, and a studio-quality stereo output for headphones or powered monitors.

“The success of Duet inspired us to provide Apogee’s legendary sound quality to those in the market for an even more affordable entry point into the Apogee product line,” says Betty Bennett, CEO of Apogee Electronics.

“With ONE’s low price and truly unique features like the specially-tuned internal microphone, professional recording is now available to anyone looking to make music on their Mac.”

Features and Specifications:
—Single channel input using one of the following three options:
—Internal condenser microphone
—Balanced XLR microphone preamp input with +10 to 63 dB of gain
—Unbalanced 1/4-inch high impedance instrument input with 0 to 45 dB of gain
—Software selectable 48V phantom power
—Line-level, 1/8-inch stereo output for headphones or unbalanced powered monitors
—A/D and D/A conversion @ 44.1/48kHz, 24-bit
—Multi-function encoder knob for input gain control and output level control
—4 encoder function LED indicators (internal microphone, microphone input, instrument input and output)
—3 segment LED input and output metering
—Apogee’s Maestro software for advanced control and low latency mixing
—Compatible with any Core Audio compliant audio application

Optional Accessories:
—Custom mic mount
—Custom carrying case
—3 meter USB cable

System Requirements:
—Computer: Mac, with an Intel or PowerPC G5 processor
—Memory: 1 GB minimum of installed RAM, 2 GB recommended
—OS: 10.5.7 or greater
—Connection and power: USB, powered by any available USB port on the computer

Availability of ONE is late July, 2009, with U.S. MSRP of $249.

Direct link to more info about ONE
Apogee Electronics Website

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Wednesday, June 24, 2009

dbx Launches New Flagship SC 64 & SC 32 Digital Matrix Processors At 2009 InfoComm

Both units provide intuitive Wizard-driven system configuration using Harman HiQnet System Architect

At 2009 InfoComm in Orlando, dbx Professional Products introduced the new SC 64 (System Core) and SC 32 digital matrix processors featuring intuitive Wizard-driven system configuration using Harman HiQnet System Architect.

The SC 64 and SC 32 host a total of 64 and 32 analog I/O respectively, configurable in banks of eight. The flexibility of eight analog input cards and eight analog output cards easily facilitates many different fully loaded configurations, accommodating a wide range of standard sources via the onboard mic/line and Phantom Power switching per input.

Two high-speed option slots on the SC 64 and one high-speed option slot on the SC 32 also provide an interface for adding forthcoming high bandwidth audio transport I/O cards.

The units feature dedicated DSP for common processing functions as well as insert positions for specialized processing and popular audio tools including dbx Advanced Feedback Suppression (AFS) Ambient Noise Compensation (ANC), priority ducking, parametric equalization (PEQ), delay and dynamics.

Additionally, the new SC 64 and SC 32 devices offer a diverse range of control options including HiQnet System Architect custom control panels, as well as Ethernet, serial, contact closure control, ZC wall controllers and even automatically scheduled events. An optional media engine facilitates delayed paging and storage of audio files for scheduled playback.

dbx Professional Products Website
Harman Professional Website

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

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Middle Atlantic Debuts IsoCenter Rackmount Isolation Transformer System at 2009 InfoComm

The energy-efficient IsoCenter system consumes only 9 watts at idle

At 2009 InfoComm, Middle Atlantic Products introduced the new IsoCenter Rackmount Isolation Transformer system, which is engineered to enhance AV performance by eliminating many issues related to power and grounding.

The IsoCenter system is comprised of an energy saving high-efficiency shielded isolation transformer, control electronics and a dedicated load center, all housed in a compact 4-space (7-inch) chassis.

This integrated design reduces the labor and expense of installing multiple components. While typical isolation transformers consume 93 watts at idle, the energy-efficient IsoCenter system consumes only 9 watts at idle.

The IsoCenter system attenuates high frequency noise and voltage transients, performs auto shut down when safety ground integrity is compromised, and ensures over/under voltage protection, all without degrading power quality.

In addition, the system provides all 120-volt output circuits with the same phase to eliminate noise from cross-phase leakage. Superior electrical isolation is maximized by the rackmount design, which enables the use of shorter ground wire lengths, making the AV system even less susceptible to current-induced noise.

The unit enables the use of lighter gauge feeder wire, which saves on copper costs, and its magnetic leakage is negligible which allows placement within the rack.

An additional benefit is the inaudible sound level, unlike the loud buzzing of conventional transformers. The system also features an innovative rear support design.

The IsoCenter system is backed by a 10-year warranty.

Middle Atlantic Website

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

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Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Fulcrum Acoustic CX/DX Family Of Loudspeakers Join TQ Install Series At 2009 InfoComm

A newly designed coaxial transducer/horn assembly, along with TQ processing, alleviates the problems previously associated with coaxial approaches

AT 2009 InfoComm in Orlando, Fulcrum Acoustic debuted the CX/DX family of loudspeakers, the first of the TQ Install Series.

Eight different products, all based on coaxial designs, provide 90- x 45-degree or 60- x 45-degree horn patterns and 12-inch or 15-inch woofers.  A newly designed coaxial transducer/horn assembly, along with TQ processing, alleviates the problems previously associated with coaxial approaches.

For example, the CX1595 is a coaxial loudspeaker that packs the output capability of a non-coaxial 15 inch, horn-loaded-HF loudspeaker into a much more compact enclosure. Its coaxial transducer can be rotated in 45-degree increments, which allows a user to precisely tailor coverage to best suit an application’s requirements.

The enclosure’s 40-degree trapezoidal shape may be mounted close to ceilings or in tight-packed vertical arrays.

The CX1595 requires digital signal processing, and many platforms are supported. Those platforms capable of implementing Fulcrum Acoustic’s TQ processing give the CX loudspeakers exceptional clarity and studio-monitor-like transient response even while it delivers high sound pressure levels.

When used with TQ processing, the CX Series and the companion dual-woofer DX Series loudspeakers provide exceptional clarity and consistent voicing even while delivering high sound pressure levels.

The proprietary horns employed in the CX series represent a modern digital-signal-processing-aware update to the traditional horn-loaded coaxial loudspeaker concept. The well-known benefits of the coaxial approach have been realized without the familiar shortcomings of historical designs.

Fulcrum Acoustic’s Temporal Equalization (TQ) digital signal processing techniques eliminate midrange colorations and high frequency harshness while producing a smooth, seamless coverage pattern through the crossover range.

In fact, the coaxial transducers were designed from the ground up to take advantage of the unique capabilities of TQ.

The coaxial transducer in the CX1595 includes a 3-inch diaphragm compression driver. The large diaphragm area permits the compression driver to operate at frequencies too low for smaller compression drivers to handle. This allows the high frequency horn to smooth the polar response of the low frequency section in the frequency range where the horn would otherwise cause shadowing.

It also allows the compression driver to produce extreme sound pressure levels with an effortless sonic character.

The coaxial woofer’s large radiating surface works in conjunction with the HF horn to improve directional control at the bottom of the horn’s operating range, increasing directional control beyond what can be accomplished by the horn alone.

The coaxial transducer’s compact, neodymium magnet not only minimizes weight, but also allows very tight spacing between the compression driver and woofer voice coils.

The delay between the driver outputs is thereby minimized, which allows the coaxial device to work well with a passive crossover.

Fulcrum Acoustic Website

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

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JBL Professional Breaks New Ground With Debut Of CBT Series Line Array Columns At 2009 InfoComm

Proprietary Constant Beamwidth Technology provides directivity and versatility in passive column loudspeakers

At 2009 InfoComm in Orlando, JBL Professional introduced the CBT Series of passive line array columns, featuring patent-pending Constant Beamwidth Technology circuitry that provides consistent constant directivity coverage and audio clarity, even in difficult acoustical environments.

“With the CBT Series, JBL is improving upon a number of challenges customers have typically faced with traditional passive columns, which causes the listening area to be covered inconsistently and every listener hearing a different sound character, including inconsistent coverage angles at every frequency, frequency response that changes considerably with distance, and out-of-coverage lobes that contribute to a destructive reverberant field,” said Rick Kamlet, Senior Director, Commercial Installed Sound, JBL Professional.

“All these factors result in the listening area being covered inconsistently and every listener hearing a different sound character. After years of research by JBL engineers, the CBT Series, with Constant Beamwidth Technology, represents a new benchmark in performance and versatility for passive column loudspeakers, providing not only constant directivity, but also adjustable coverage control, full-fidelity sound quality, and one model that provides a very versatile asymmetrical pattern for more consistent front-to-back sound levels within the room while reducing reflections from the back wall.

“These features, along with high output levels, make the CBT Series a great choice not just for traditional column applications, but also for projects where larger point-and-shoot speakers would normally be utilized.”

The coverage pattern of the CBT models can be adjusted—with a simple switch—between Broad Mode (designed for mid-throw situations) and Narrow Mode (for long-throw applications). This versatility allows the CBT’s to meet the requirements of a broad range of applications.

In addition, the CBT speakers provide Dynamic SonicGuard overload protection circuitry, which reduces distortion at high drive levels, along with user variable voicing which allows selecting a flat frequency response or a midrange presence peak for especially clear speech intelligibility.

The CBT 50LA is a very compact 50 cm high column that utilizes a straight line of eight 2-inch drivers, while the taller CBT 100 LA is a straight 100 cm high column utilizing 16 2-inch drivers and handles 325 Watts continuous pink noise for high output levels.

Combined with Constant Beamwidth Technology circuitry, both provide constant directivity coverage. Both also contain low-saturation transformers, so they can be used on 70V/100V distributed speaker lines or as low impedance speakers.

The J-shaped CBT 70J is a 2-way coaxial line array utilizing 16 soft dome tweeters and four high power 5-inch woofers at a 70 cm height. 

The J-shape of the array works in conjunction with the Constant Beamwidth Technology circuitry to provide asymmetrical coverage similar to that of expensive line arrays commonly used in concert systems.

The column’s top half projects highly concentrated sound toward the back of the venue, while the bottom half down-fills a broader, less concentrated sound to the front of the venue, resulting in more consistent sound levels from front to back.

A pattern control switch for either 45 or 25 degrees vertical coverage is also provided.

The CBT 70JE is an extension cabinet for the 70J, further extending the pattern control of the CBT 70J by doubling its height, which lowers the frequency to which the loudspeaker holds a consistent pattern of coverage, and doubling the power handling.

The 70JE also increases the bass capability and extends the low-frequency response of the system to 1,000 Watts continuous pink noise.

The selectable vertical coverage, music/speech settings, the option to add an extension for bass and pattern control, asymmetrical vertical coverage, high output, and wide bandwidth makes the CBT70J an extremely versatile loudspeaker that fits into a wide variety of applications.

Despite the advanced features and performance built into the CBT Series, they are extremely easy to use, encompassing a new level of user-friendliness that makes them very straightforward to design into everyday projects. The CBT models can be installed either indoors or outdoors and the thin and sleek design is so unobtrusive that they almost vanish into the décor.

JBL Professional Website
Harman Professional Website

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

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Winners Selected In Latest PSW Sweepstakes For Two Audio-Technica Stereo Microphones

The next PSW Sweepstakes will be coming up soon!

Charles Harrigan of Greenville, SC is the winner of a premium Audio-Technica BP4025 stereo microphone ($749 MSRP) in the latest PSW Sweepstakes drawing.

In addition, Pam Crawford of Palm Harbor, FL also was selected as a winner in the same sweepstakes and is now the owner of an Audio-Technica AT8022 stereo microphone ($499 MSRP).

Congratulations to both Charles and Pam!

The next PSW Sweepstakes, where all readers are eligible to win just by entering, will be coming up soon.

Meanwhile, here’s more about the A-T mics awarded in the recent sweepstakes.

Designed for broadcast and professional recording, Audio-Technica’s BP4025 stereo condenser offers large-diaphragm capsules in an innovative coincident capsule configuration. This allows for a smaller housing while producing an X/Y stereo image with the spatial impact and realism of a live sound field.

The BP4025 delivers excellent channel separation, pristine sound quality, and exceptionally low noise. It offers switchable low-frequency roll-off and a 10 dB pad.

Audio-Technica’s versatile AT8022 is designed for easy use with either consumer or professional gear. The microphone operates on either battery or phantom power, and is supplied with two cables for use with either pro equipment offering XLR inputs, or with consumer gear equipped with 3.5 mm TRS input.

It offers switchable low-frequency roll-off and the convenience of battery or phantom power.

For more information, go to www.audiotechnica.com

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WorxAudio Technologies Announces New X1M-P Line Array At 2009 InfoComm

A combination of ultra-compact form factor and broad horizontal dispersion

At 2009 InfoComm in Orlando, WorxAudio Technologies introduced the X1M-P line array, a two-way, high efficiency, ultra compact line array loudspeaker system that’s the newest member of the company’s TrueLine Series.

The new X1M-P is designed for the most natural sounding reproduction of speech and music program material in applications such as frontfill, stage monitoring, and choir monitoring, as well as a host of other AV applications.

Like all loudspeakers systems in the TrueLine Series, the transducer complement is top shelf. The X1M-P incorporates a medium format, 1-inch exit compression driver coupled to a stabilized proprietary FlatWave Former (wave shaping device) that delivers clear but penetrating high frequencies over a predictable and controlled coverage area.

Dual 8-inch neo drivers coupled to the (A.I.M.) Acoustic Intergrading Module to minimize cone filtering throughout the entire operating range and provide a rich, fully balanced sound with a frequency range that spans from 50 Hz to 18 kHz.

What really differentiates the new WorxAudio X1M-P from competing loudspeaker systems is the enclosure’s unique angle design.

Featuring one side that is flat with a 90-degree angle to the floor, the new X1M-P makes a great choice as a frontfill. Positioned along the front edge of the stage in this orientation, the loudspeaker faces directly out at the audience—making a great choice to provide coverage to those members of an audience located close to the stage.

Alternately, the other side of the new X1M-P features a 5 -degree angle. In this orientation, the loudspeaker makes a great choice as a floor monitor. With its unusually broad 160-degree horizontal dispersion, a single X1M-P placed in the center of the stage area can readily serve as the monitor for an entire choir or group of performers.

To facilitate easy positioning of the X1M-P, the loudspeaker ships with rigging hardware designed to enable mounting of the enclosure on the top or bottom with the optionally available Chief CMA 395 Series angle bracket. With this mounting hardware, the X1M-P can readily be positioned atop a pole.

The loudspeaker enclosure is constructed from sturdy multi-ply Baltic Birch and is heavily braced for cabinet rigidity. Protecting the enclosure is a multi-layered, two part polyurea ProTex finish — available in black or white. A 16-gauge, perforated, cloth-backed, powder coated steel grill with a high transmission ratio protects the transducer complement.

Designed expressly for use with the X1M-P is WorxAudio Technologies’ highly-regarded PMD-1 digital power amp. Housed in the rear of the enclosure, the PMD-1 eliminates the headache of selecting the right amplifier/signal processing to mate with the loudspeaker and saves space as well.

Featuring 500 watts for the low frequencies and 250 watts for the highs, the amplifier incorporates twin digital program processors, a mute switch for each output, a detented volume control, an XLR transformer with isolated I/O, and industry-standard AC PowerCon switchgear I/O.

Hugh Sarvis, WorxAudio Technologies’ CEO and Director of Engineering, commented on the new TrueLine X1M-P, “The new X1M-P was designed to address the audio community’s desire for an ultra-compact, high performance loudspeaker system with the versatility to function as either a high-performance frontfill or as a monitor wedge—and that’s precisely what the flat and 5 -degree angled sides of this enclosure accomplish.

“Combined with its industry-leading, 160-degree horizontal dispersion, the X1M-P provides unusually broad dispersion. With its unobtrusive appearance and the included EASE Focus array aiming software, the new X1M-P represents exceptional value.”

The new WorxAudio Technologies TrueLine X1M-P Install line array carries a U.S. MSRP of $4,650, and is available now.

WorxAudio Technologies Website

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

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Crown Introduces Updated Macro-Tech i Series Amplifiers With Increased Power & Dual Port Capability

An additional network port now allows a user to daisy chain the network control down the rack of amplifiers instead of having to run a separate cable from a switch to each individual amplifier

At the 2009 InfoComm in Orlando, Crown announced the latest update to its Macro-Tech i Series of amplifiers, featuring increased power and new dual port capability. 

Comprised of three models, the MA-5000i, MA-9000i, and MA-12000i, the Macro-Tech i Series features patented Class-I circuitry, which delivers greater power while reducing the amplifier’s weight by more than half.

The new Macro-Tech i Series also features dual-port capability. An additional network port now allows a user to daisy chain the network control down the rack of amplifiers instead of having to run a separate cable from a switch to each individual amplifier. 

“The professional sound reinforcement community knows what to expect from the Macro-Tech i Series. They are getting the best sounding, most reliable analog power amplifier in the world. The best just got better with these updates. The upgraded power and features reflect the needs of our customers and our desire to provide them with a solution that best meets their needs,” stated Brian Divine, director of marketing for touring and installed sound for Crown.

All Macro-Tech i amplifiers are also equipped with comprehensive status, fault, and load monitoring via standard Harman HiQnet System Architect software.  A universal power-factor corrected power supply ensures that the amps can be anywhere in the world, delivering full rated power regardless of the environment.

Power output ratings on the newly updated Macro-Tech i Series:
• MA-5000i – 3000W per channel at 2 ohms (with 2565W 20mS burst), 2500W per channel at 4 ohms,  1250W per channel at 8 ohms, 4000W at 4 ohms bridged, and 5000W at 8 ohms bridged
• MA-9000i – 4700W per channel at 2 ohms (with 4570W 20mS burst), 3500W per channel at 4 ohms, 1500W per channel at 8 ohms, 5600W at 4 ohms bridged, and 7000W at 8 ohms bridged
• MA-12000i – 6000W per channel at 2 ohms (with 5900W 20mS burst), 4500W per channel at 4 ohms, 2100W per channel at 8 ohms, 7500W at 4 ohms bridged, and 9000W at 8 ohms bridged

Crown Audio Website
Harman Professional

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

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Radial Engineering Presents The Radial H-Amp Loudspeaker To Headphone Driver

It features a variable level control, high pass filter to remove excess low-end, a variable tone control to smooth out the highs, and more

Radial Engineering has announced the release of the Radial H-Amp, a unique passive interface that takes any loudspeaker signal and converts it to a headphone source.

Designed for live stages, the H-Amp is the an interface that allows, for example, a drummer to get a monitor feed from any loudspeaker!.

Using the ‘through’ connection from a wedge monitor or side fill, the H-Amp is equipped with a Neutrik Speakon connector input and converts the high level loudspeaker signal to a mono feed for headphones.

It features a variable level control, high pass filter to remove excess low-end, a variable tone control to smooth out the highs plus a selector switch to enable various headphone types with wide ranging impedance as well as in-ear monitors to be connected.

A second Speakon provides a throughput to feed a second H-Amp opening the door for applications such as in the studio or on concert stages where multiple members of the orchestra may need a headphone feed.

The H-Amp is 100 percent passive. Because it only taps a small portion of the signal, it will not affect the amplifier’s impedance or load making it easy to use without any system reconfiguration.

It is designed to handle the rigors of professional touring, with a 14-gauge steel welded internal I-beam frame with an outer book-end design that provides a protective zone around the connectors, switches and potentiometers plus a full-bottom no-slip pad.

U.S. retail price of the H-Amp is $220.

Radial Engineering Website

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Primacoustic Debuts New ThunderTile T-Bar Acoustic Ceiling Tiles At 2009 InfoComm

"Because the fiberglass also acts like a suspension on the T-bar frame, the backing board is free to resonate like a spring, which both absorbs low frequencies while stopping sound." - Jay Porte, Primacoustic

At 2009 Infocomm in Orlando, Primacoustic introduced ThunderTiles, an innovative T-bar ceiling tile that combines the sound absorption advantages of high density glass wool fiber with the sound blocking capability of gypsum board.

Specifically, ThunderTiles feature a 3/4-inch layer of 6-pound per cubic foot high density fiberglass that is coated with fine micromesh facing.

This is finished in Absolute White latex for superior light reflectance. Edges are also treated to fully encapsulate the panel.

The sound absorbing panel is then bonded to a 1/2-inch thick layer of gypsum board, which provides the extra mass to control sound.

According to Primacoustic Product Specialist Jay Porte, “Most folks think that one can stop sound by simply putting up a bunch of acoustic panels on a wall. This can help because it can reduce the reverb and echo inside the room, but if you want to stop sound from escaping, you have to both decouple transmission lines and add mass to the equation. ThunderTiles combine sound absorption with a heavy gypsum backing board, and because the fiberglass also acts like a suspension on the T-bar frame, the backing board is free to resonate like a spring, which both absorbs low frequencies while stopping sound.”

ThunderTiles have been tested to meet the most demanding Class-A requirements and results prove these to be among the safest ceiling tiles available. Applications include boardrooms, medical offices, music schools, home theaters, restaurants, libraries, cafeterias, and other commercial spaces where sound control is required.

Primacoustic Website

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

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theMovement Opts For Soundcraft Si2 Digital Console For Worship Celebrations

The church was making the transition into digital for the first time

theMovement, a non-denominational church based in San Marcos, California, has chosen the new Soundcraft Si2 digital console as the heart of its sound system upgrade.

The church was making the transition into digital for the first time so the sound quality, DSP power and the ease of use were crucial in the decision-making process for the console.

“TheMovement church is very familiar with high-tech gear,” reports Chris Matthews, an engineer of over 15 years. “We needed a console that had the sound quality and the power to be able to use all gates and compressors and EQs at one time.

“We wanted a console with history behind it and Soundcraft has a rich history including the Vi6, and their partnership with Studer is very appealing.”

Matthews likes the ease of use of the Si2 and states, “The feature I like the most is that there are no real pages I have to go to in order to get an aux or EQ etc. I don’t have to rely on a screen to tell me what’s up!”

“We looked at a couple of digital boards, but I was not caught up in the ‘trend’ consoles – just because everyone else has one does not make it a great board or even a great sounding board.”

Soundcraft Website
Harman Professional Website

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Monday, June 22, 2009

Neutrik Unveils Heavy Duty XX-HD Series Connector At 2009 InfoComm

New XLR cable connector is IP67 rated in mated condition

At 2009 InfoComm in Orlando, Neutrik introduced its XX-HD Series, a heavy-duty XLR cable connector designed specifically for outdoor use, equipped with hybrid metal/rubber design.

The new XX-HD Series is both dust and water protected, meeting the requirements of an IP67 rating, by mating it with the related XX-HD cable connector or Neutrik’s MPR-HD chassis connector.

The new XX-HD Series includes a 3-pole female XLR connector (NC3FXX-HD-D) with optional black housing (NC3FXX-HD-B-D) as well as a 3-pole male XLR connector (NC3MXX-HD-D) with optional black housing (NC3MXX-HD-B-D). It also features a rugged zinc die cast shell and gold contacts. 

Designed specifically to withstand the elements associated with outdoor use, the new XX-HD Series also offers Neutrik’s chuck type strain relief system for the secure clamping of cables. 

The XX-HD connector features a rubber sealing jacket which is assembled during the termination of the connector that provides dust and water protection, meeting an IP67 rating (immersed in water of 1m depth) requirement. 

The rubber sealing jacket also protects against mechanical shock. This version is available as disassembled bulk packaging (25 connectors per box) only.

“With Neutrik’s XX-HD Series connectors we have taken our proven XLR technology and created a heavy-duty, road-ready version,” says Pete Milbery, managing director of Neutrik USA.  “While many of our existing connectors can be used on the road, this XLR was specifically designed for outdoor use.”

Neutrik USA Website

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

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AKG Announces New DMM 4/2/2 Digital Automatic Microphone Mixer At 2009 InfoComm

The DMM 4/2/2 mixing algorithm automatically allocates gain among the system microphones

AT 2009 InfoComm in Orlando, AKG announced the release of the DMM 4/2/2 automatic microphone mixer, a processor controlled digital automatic mixing algorithm with four balanced universal (microphone/line) inputs and two stereo AUX inputs providing a unique and very intelligent mixing algorithm with noise sensitive threshold.

The DMM 4/2/2 mixing algorithm automatically allocates gain among the system microphones (NOM attenuation) with a special noise detect function and the “Noise Sensitive Threshold” algorithm (NST) that eliminates an accidental switching of the input channels.

The mixing algorithm features a “Last Mic On” function as well as a “Best Mic On” mode and the revolutionary control concept allows users to access all microphone functions via a single rotary switch for a very intuitive operation.

To compensate for level differences or any other obstacle, the DMM 4/2/2 incorporates a dbx compressor/limiter, which provides clear and pristine sound quality to an array of applications.

Each channel has switchable gain (Mic/Line, Mic-Lo/Mic-Hi) and switchable phantom power and every input is equipped with an incremental level control, including LED level and peak hold display.

The auto-mixing and ducking function can be enabled/disabled for each microphone and AUX channel individually providing an expansive amount of flexibility.

The DMM 4/2/2 has an expansion connector to cascade multiple mixers in a bigger system and a control I/O is located on the rear panel, providing logic in and outputs to control external devices.

The DMM 4/2/2 comes in a rugged 19-inch housing with an integrated power supply unit, one recording output via two chinch connectors and one master XLR output. The mixer can also be remotely controlled via logic in/outs with a Sub-D connector.

Each input incorporates a volume control, high frequency shelving filter, a low frequency shelving filter and a switchable bass cut filter.

The main output is equipped with an adjustable limiter as well as a master level control and all functions are controlled from the incremental controls on the front panel. The mixer also provides a software locking function to avoid unwanted operation.

AKG Website

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

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