equipment news

New ChromaRange Brochure from Pulsar

Pulsar's latest (June 2008) ChromaRange brochure contains many exciting new products, including many that feature the latest in TriColour LED Technology. It also features many new project references from around the globe.

It is available in PDF or printed format.

Cyc Lighting for the 21st Century from White Light

“The sign of a truly remarkable product is that when you have it in your demo room, everyone who sees it falls in love with it,” comments White Light’s managing director, Bryan Raven. “EvenLED has certainly passed that test: it was specified for one show, and the demo rig we have has already led to it being specified for a second, and requested for a third. We think its potential is quite enormous...”

Created by Brother, Brother & Sons in Denmark, and distributed by MA Lighting, EvenLED is a modular wall of high-output RGB LEDs with wide-angle coverage that allows them to evenly light a back projection screen when positioned just 250-300mm behind the screen (the precise distance depending on the screen type). Each EvenLED tile is a 1m square that is just 71mm deep; each tile incorporates rigging allowing it to hang securely from the tile above, with power and data cables then being daisy chained through. Each tile contains 16 individually controllable RGB LEDs, each with 16-bit control, giving EvenLED the smoothest fades yet seen in an LED product. “It is a remarkable new way of lighting cycloramas,” Raven notes.

EvenLED was brought to White Light’s attention by Rob Halliday for a new touring production of a show which can’t yet be named. “The design for the tour presented us with quite a challenge,” Halliday notes, “since the show has a cyc that has to appear in an enormous range of colours, patterns and wipes, but we’d been left with just 25 cm for cyc lighting. We spent a very long time exploring every possible option but nothing really quite achieved what we needed to achieve in the space available, until we discovered EvenLED.”

“It is probably the most remarkable LED product I’ve yet encountered: it solved our ‘impossible lighting challenge’ by working in the space available, it offers an enormous palette of colours from gentle tints to deep vivid saturated colours with each point being individually controllable to give graduations or movement - and it has incredibly smooth fading, even at the very bottom end. All of this in a modular form that should be easy to set-up on each move of the tour and which, as a bonus, has relatively low power requirements compared to conventional cyc lighting techniques.”

The show’s 13.5mx9m cyc will be lit using just 63A of power, with the array controlled using the grid layout function on a grandMA console. Even before that show gets up and running, EvenLED will have made an appearance on a second show - solving another difficult cyc lighting problem for Rick Fisher on the Chichester Festival Theatre’s new production of The Cherry Orchard, creating a light-box cyclorama in a very limited space. EvenLED has also attracted interest from a number of other theatres and shows, including Guildhall School of Music & Drama's production of City of Angels

“The addition of EvenLED - which we think moves cyc lighting into the 21st Century - to our rental stock is another example of White Light’s ongoing commitment to supplying lighting designers with the latest and best tools to achieve their work,” comments White Light’s hire and technical director Dave Isherwood, “just as we did twenty years ago with the first Rainbow colour scrollers, and did in the nineties when moving lights first moved into theatre. However, EvenLED is not just a great lighting tool, it’s also an efficient one, with low energy requirements and lower running costs compared to other ways of lighting big cycs. We hope this will appeal to many other lighting users; we will shortly be announcing a number of events around the UK to allow lighting designers to experience EvenLED first hand; words or even static pictures really don't do it full justice.”

Further information about EvenLED, which is in-stock at White Light and available for hire now, and about White Light’s other products and services, can be found at the White Light website, www.WhiteLight.Ltd.uk.

Rosco at PLASA 2008 with New Colour and Lighting the Masters

This September sees the exciting introduction of a new colour to the Roscolux range of filters as well as 400 new gobo designs - steel designs, glass designs and new effects glass, which will be unveiled at Rosco's stand G47, during the PLASA Show. Attendees will also see the innovative Lighting the Masters - a web-based tool to provide inspiration for the lighting design process.

Roscolux #381 was created with the support of the famous lighting designer Mike Baldassari. Roscolux filters are manufactured in a deep-dying process. Deep-dyed filters are more resistant to fading on hot stage lights. Mike Baldassari's lighting designs are known the world over and he has long been a supporter of the Rosco range of colours. Rosco was therefore delighted when Mike approached us to create a bespoke colour on his behalf. As Mike says: Roscolux #381 "is a terrific 'dark steel' or 'triple daylight' without too much red or green"... a fabulous addition to the Rosco pallette.

Soon to be launched, Rosco's Lighting the Masters ‘Gallery 1' is a perfect example of art inspiring art. Based on an original idea by leading lighting cameraman Jeremy Hoare, Rosco has put together a collection of paintings and explored their composition in such a way as to provide inspiration for the lighting design process. By relating Rosco's rich colour filter palette to the predominate colours within a painting, Rosco has created a web based tool which can help designers realize their scenic visualizations, which will be presented at PLASA 2008.

www.rosco.com

Rosco LitePad DL and HO

As a result of the success with LitePad, Rosco has enhanced this product range further by introducing two new options: LitePad DL (Daylight) and LightPad HO (High Output).

The LitePad HO is 33% brighter than the DL. Colour temperature for both is 6000K, and they are available in three new sizes: 76mm circle, 305mm circle and 610mm square.

The LitePadis a thin profile source that generates a soft even beam with little heat. It's fast and economical to use in many places where a larger, typical luminaire could not fit.

Drawing just a few watts of power, LitePad is simple, fast and economical to use in film and television, theatre, live entertainment, retail and event lighting.

www.rosco.com

Wybron iPhone Applications Released

Two new iPhone and iPod touch applications developed by Wybron are bringing an innovative, high-tech approach to choosing and mixing colors for the company's color scrollers.

The Gel Swatch Library lets users browse, compare, and search nearly 1,000 gel colors made by GAM, Lee, and Rosco, showing similar and complementary colors for each shade. The CXI Color Calculator lets users create nearly 500 different colors for the CXI IT dual-gelstring color-mixing scroller.

The applications earned rave reviews from customers within hours of being released July 13 through Apple's App Store. "As a lighting professional, I am thrilled for this and the CXI application, truly a great utility to have in the field and on the go!" one customer wrote on iTunes. "Exactly the type of app that I was wanting," wrote another customer.

The Gel Swatch Library catalogues hundreds of gel colors, each displaying its Spectral Energy Distribution curve and CMY/RGB percentages. The clean interface gives a side-by-side look at similar and complementary colors for every gel, and the search feature makes it easy to find a particular gel by name.

The Gel Swatch Library condenses the information found in gel swatch books into a simple interface for the sleek Apple devices already in the pockets of many lighting pros. "It allows you to search across all the major manufacturers for a gel name and takes you directly there," says Scott Longberry, Wybron engineer and co-developer of the application. "No more flipping through large swatch books trying to find that specific color."

The CXI Color Calculator simulates the color-mixing capabilities of the CXI with two overlapping gelstrings of cyan, magenta, and yellow. As the colors blend, different shades appear at the top of the screen, along with the numerical values to be entered into a control console to replicate the color on stage. The application also displays the values necessary to produce several GAM, Lee, and Rosco gels.

The Color Calculator condenses the information found on the plastic CXI color wheel. "Using the old wheel color calculator at a tech table in a dark theatre didn't work too well," says Miles Dudgeon, Wybron's marketing director and co-developer of the application. "That's not a problem with the illuminated screens on the iPhone and iPod."

The applications show Wybron's commitment to developing innovative products that keep lighting pros ahead of the curve, according to Wybron pesident Keny Whitright. "We don't want to just keep up with new lighting technology - we want to lead the way," Whitright says. "These applications took a lot of work and a lot of time to develop. They turned out great, and they're going to help a lot of people."

Wybron was part of a select group of programmers chosen to join Apple's developer program. As of the Apple World Wide Developer Conference last month, only about a sixth of those who applied had been accepted - about 4,000 approved developers out of an estimated 25,000.

The Gel Swatch Library costs $9.99, and the CXI Color Calculator costs $4.99. Both can be downloaded from the Apple App Store, accessible through an icon on the iPhone and the iPod touch or the iTunes store.

To go directly to the Gel Swatch Library in iTunes, click on this link: http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=285259613&mt=8  To go directly to the CXI Color Calculator application in iTunes, click on this link: http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=284971655&mt=8.

As the applications add more features, customers can download free updates.

For more information about the applications, visit www.wybron.com or call (719) 548-9774. To learn more about the iPhone and iPod touch, visit www.apple.com.

Downloadable Upgrade for Denon CI AVRs Provides new Audyssey Dynamic Volume Level Control Function

DMi D&M Installation has announced a major firmware upgrade for its top of the range Denon AVR-3808 and AVR-4308 network enabled A/V receivers. The update, downloadable via the receivers' internal online upgrade function, introduces Audyssey's new Dynamic Volume level control; the first ever implementation of this advanced new technology. The introduction of Dynamic Volume provides these receivers with a complete suite of the latest home theatre correction technologies.

Dynamic Volume completes a suite of three highly sophisticated Audyssey correction technologies: Dynamic Volume, a ground breaking level control system, provides for hands-free listening - without the need to reach for the remote to adjust the volume between loud and quite passages in a movie soundtrack, or differing volume levels between television programmes, commercials, and within programme material. Dynamic Volume monitors the audio signal moment-by-moment and constantly adjusts to the user's desired listening level. Simultaneously, Dynamic EQ loudness control dynamically optimises the signal's dynamic range in order to preserve audio impact, even at the lowest volume. Together these processes provide for the most effective, unobtrusive and natural sounding level control system ever devised.

Completing the suite, Audyssey MultEQ-XT advanced room correction deploys uses high-resolution (frequency and time domain) equalisation filters for satellites and subwoofers. Corrections calibrated from up to eight room measurements eliminate signal distortions caused by room acoustics.

As well as Dynamic Volume, the upgrade also introduces Consumer Electronic Control (CEC) HDMI protocol support for these AVRs: CEC carries control function data between HDMI connected devices, providing a bidirectional serial bus.

The upgrade will be available from October 2008, via internet connection between the individual AVR and the Denon Product Management Server and will be a simple procedure for custom installers to enable. Further details, including pricing, are to be confirmed.

Allen & Heath Launch Online Configuration Tool for iLive

Allen & Heath has launched the iLive Configuration Utility, a new online tool to aid customers wishing to purchase the new modular digital system.

The Flash-based web application enables the user to build their own iLive system, selecting iLive control surfaces, iDR10 MixRacks and the various components needed, to design a system tailored to their specific requirements.

The application comprises three screens, starting with the iLive surface, followed by the MixRack, finishing with the addition of extra modules or accessories. There is a simple 'drag and drop' configuration utility, whereby modules can be ‘dragged' to the corresponding slots on the back of an iLive surface and MixRack. An item code is generated for each iLive surface and iDR10 MixRack built, and up to five surfaces and five MixRacks configurations can be saved during the process. Upon completion, the configs can be forwarded to a local sales representative.

"As iLive is modular with a wide variety of options and components, it can be difficult for customers to visualise and cost a system. This tool allows them to explore the range of options available, pick and choose according to their requirements, and match their budget," explains Allen & Heath's sales director, Bob Goleniowski. "Everything can be saved, recalled and sent to our sales distribution network, which also eliminates any order errors. It will really help streamline the sales process for this complex product."

Audica Professional Products Gain CCC Certification

Cambridge-based Audica Professional has gained China's CCC Certification for its electronic products; the MICROzone amplifier/controller and MICROsub active subwoofer.

Commenting for Audica Professional, sales director Derek West said: "CCC is one of most stringent of all of the international approvals. It is a long and expensive procedure for a relatively small company, but with a good distributor and strong sales growth in the territory, it was an investment we felt was well justified. With such a rapid expansion of new public and commercial buildings in China, the market for our products will continue to grow and this approval is necessary for us to take a competitive lead in supplying background music, corporate AV and audio communication systems."

Audica Professional commenced business in 2006 and its MICROseries product range is already distributed in more than 30 countries worldwide. The company is represented in China and Hong Kong by High Wing International Technology Ltd., which has offices in Hong Kong, Guangdong and Shanghai.

Anolis ArcControl 1024

Anolis ArcControl 1024 is a feature-rich, fully programmable DMX controller, designed to offer comprehensive and intuitive control of all Anolis fittings and third party DMX controlled luminaires.

It is ideal for the widest possible range of applications including commercial and residential installations - restaurants, bars, hotels, modern interiors, lightscapes, retail outlets, point-of-sales, illuminated signs and exhibition stands.

Anolis ArcControl 1024 is a totally stand-alone wall-mounted system. It requires no additional equipment to control DMX fittings, and fits neatly into a 47 mm deep back box. Surface mount and frame mount options are also available. It includes a comprehensive library of all Anolis luminaires and  other effects for easy installation and programming. The LCD display and scroll-wheel combined with the real time astronomical clock enable more complex sequences, timed events and colours to be added without using a computer.

www.anolis.eu

Community Unveils ENTASYS Column Line-Array

Community Professional has introduced ENTASYS, a new high-performance, three-way full-range column line-array loudspeaker system that delivers true line-array performance in a compact weather-resistant package.

Designed for permanent installation applications including auditoria, airports and train stations, conference centers, houses of worship, stadium concourses and museums, ENTASYS offers high output and high power handling capability that outperforms comparable systems, boasting multiple low frequency, midrange and high-frequency drivers for the most consistent, lobe free, coverage available, and delivering a uniform, constant vertical beamwidth from 800 Hz - 16 kHz.

Each ENTASYS full-range column includes six low frequency neodymium drivers, eighteen 2.35" midrange drivers and six 7" long x 1" wide planar-coupled patent pending Compact Ribbon Emulator (CRE) high frequency elements. The ENTASYS line is designed to be modular, with multiple ENTASYS columns used to create extremely narrow focused vertical coverage previously only possible using powered, steered arrays.

All ENTASYS systems are available from the factory in elegant black or white finishes, with each individual enclosure featuring a compact 5-½ inch wide by 7-3/8-inch deep "teardrop" shaped footprint and standing 44-½ inches tall.  A range of mounting brackets is available to fit nearly every installation design.

Community Debuts New Powered S-Series Loudspeakers

Building on the success of their Sonus line of portable, linear-response loudspeaker systems, Community Professional has introduced new powered versions of each model in their ‘S-Series' range.

Designed for working musicians, all Sonus models feature lightweight design and Community's legendary durability. Powered S-Series systems add high-efficiency Class D amplifiers for better performance, less heat and maximum reliability.

"In the year since its debut, Sonus has become one of our most popular loudspeaker lines," said Julia Lee, Community's director of sales and marketing. "We're pleased to expand this lineup into the S-Series to include both passive and active versions of each model and debut it here at InfoComm."

The S-1296A and S-1596A are two-way models with 400-Watts of low-frequency power and 100-Watt high-frequency amplification. The S-3294A and S-3594A three-way models add 100W mid-range amps to the package. Powered subwoofers complete the lineup, employing single 1000W amplifiers in the dual 15-inch S-215SA and dual 18-inch S-218SA models.

The new Powered S-Series offer powerful DSP features, including four user-selectable preset voicings, a Mic/Line sensitivity switch, and built-in high pass switch for seamless integration with an S-Series subwoofer. The factory programmed settings feature steep crossover slopes, up to 10 equalization filters per driver, and multiple limiters. All Powered S-Series offer analog and S/PDIF compatible AES3 digital inputs, and even convert an analog input signal into to AES3 output for low loss digital signal distribution.

Community's M12 Stage Monitor Design Improved

Community's popular M12 stage monitor has been redesigned to improve ease of handling, access to inputs and to provide for optional mounting for fixed installations.

Since its introduction, the M12 has received excellent reviews for its exceptional performance and stylish, low-profile exterior. Now, in response to customer feedback, Community has improved the M12 with rubber pocket grip handles for better portability, and a larger, easier-to-access connector base.  The M12's new recessed handles are innovatively designed to make it simple to lift and carry using both handles or just one, making it one of the most ergonomically designed stage monitors available.  The base of the M12 has also been redesigned to provide easier access to the input connectors, reducing setup and teardown times for live events and portable applications.

The M12 is ideal for any application where low visibility is a key requirement, including televised and corporate events, houses of worship, as well as theatre and stage performances. The M12's high frequency driver is mounted to a moulded one-piece asymmetrical horn with a 90-degree pattern at the top and 40 degree at the bottom, allowing full-range monitor output close up or at a distance. This unique pattern delivers even coverage while keeping energy away from stage walls. For installers seeking to mount the M12 to walls or ceilings, an optional built-to-order install version will also be available with four M10 hang points and a mounting bracket plate for permanent installation. The install version of the M12 can be used anywhere a conventional 12-inch two-way speaker cabinet would be used, as well as in many applications where a conventional speaker cabinet would not, such as overhead or under-balcony use, conference rooms and distributed systems.

The M12 is available in low-lustre black or white finishes, with the HF horn moulded into the faceplate to either the right or left of the LF driver for application preference and to provide for L/R pairs for stereo monitoring. With Community's latest improvements, it is also now available with or without handles or mounting points, giving greater choice to suit the application.

L-Acoustics Rolls Out New LA-RAK

L-Acoustics has announced the introduction of its new LA-RAK touring rack, the central element of the manufacturer's new system architecture built upon the LA8 amplified controller. It offers an advanced drive rack solution for all L-Acoustics systems covering signal and power distribution in a comprehensive plug and play touring package.

LA-RAK was created as a universal platform designed to facilitate cross-rental between DOSC Network members and to ensure compatibility with the legacy analog cabling standard of L-Acoustics systems.

The fully equipped LA-RAK module comprises: One 9U rack with LEXAN(r) front and rear covers; three LA8 amplified controllers; an I/O distribution panel for analog signal, L-NET (control and monitoring) and L-DGA (digital audio) networks distribution within the rack and link out with other racks; available 2U space for implementing L-NET and L-DGA network switches when operating with a star network topology; an I/O panel for power distribution of three LA8, two Ethernet switches and one auxiliary AC outlet.

LA-RAK's design is entirely modular allowing the user to physically assemble and interconnect multiple modules to fit numerous applications. The LA-RAK configuration based on a multiple of three LA8 yields the maximum flexibility and power resources for any L-Acoustics system from compact coaxial systems up to KUDO and K1 stadium line source array systems.

Community Expands Acclaimed iBOX Series to Include Portable Models

Responding to overwhelming demand, Community Professional has added new enhancements to one of its best selling products, the iBOX Series.

The 20-model range of installation loudspeakers, one of Community's flagship products, has been expanded to offer portable versions of all iBOX full-range models, equipped with handles, rubber feet and stacking cups on four recessed corner mounting points. Designed for a wide range of installed sound applications, including theatres, auditoria, houses of worship and performance venues, the new iBOX is the only product in its class now available in a portable form.

Community Professional's line of high-performance, high-quality loudspeakers covers the widest range of applications of any manufacturer, with a selection of loudspeakers that require no DSP tuning or setup, an advantage to customers using multiple types of loudspeakers in their portable and installed applications. iBOX offers an easy-to-use solution that is completely plug and play, and comes with an extensive range of installation accessories and mounting brackets, making it the most versatile system available.

The iBOX line is available in three form factors: the iHP1200 Series, the iHP1500 Series and the iHP3500 Series. The two-way 1200-Series includes six full-range models combining a high-power 12-inch mid/bass driver and a 2.87-inch edge wound voice coil compression driver on a fully rotatable, large-format horn. The 1500-Series utilizes the same six rotatable HF horn options combined with a powerful 15-inch mid/bass driver. The 3500-Series is a large format, three-way full range system utilizing the same powerful 15-inch high-power low frequency driver, and 2.87-inch compression driver, adding an 8-inch mid-range driver.

For systems requiring greater LF coverage, the iBOX line also includes the i112S and i212S subwoofers, designed in the same form factor as the 1200-Series, the i115 and i215 subs, utilizing the 1500-Series cabinetry, and the i118S and i215LVS with identical enclosure dimensions as the 3500-Series for uniform, streamlined arrays, clusters and distributed systems.

Community Introduces New VLF Series Low Frequency Loudspeakers

Community Professional has introduced the new VLF Series of Versatile Low Frequency loudspeakers. The VLF line boasts a compact, low-profile design that is ideal for theaters, restaurants, houses of worship and other applications, fitting into areas where larger subwoofers are impractical.

The dual 8-inch VLF208 and dual 12-inch VLF212 are the first in a series of powerful and innovative new low frequency subwoofers.  With a response down to 70 Hz in passive mode or 60 Hz using digital signal processing, the VLF208 can function in pairs as a steered bass array, and is equipped with fly points and four rubber feet.  The VLF212 features slot-loaded woofers for extended low frequency response down to 50 Hz in passive mode or 43 Hz using DSP.  The VLF212 will also be available in a powered version with an integrated amplifier in both portable and installed models beginning in the fourth quarter of 2008.

IC Live Charts A New Direction for Event Production

Renkus-Heinz has introduced IC Live, a new product line that applies the company's innovative Iconyx Digitally Steerable Array technology to live event production.

"Originally designed for permanent installation, Iconyx arrays have been used for charity galas, corporate presentations and concerts throughout Europe and the US," says Renkus-Heinz president Harro Heinz. "IC Live meets the needs of PA rental companies, with high output steerable array configurations and a versatile hardware system that is optimized for portable applications."

IC Live is engineered to supply natural, musical and intelligible sound for live events from meetings with background music to high-energy theatrical productions and concerts. "Vertical pattern control is often the key to providing good sound in difficult conditions," says Renkus-Heinz senior vice president Ralph Heinz. "Line arrays have become the accepted way to achieve vertical control, but of course the smaller the box, the shorter the line and the less control the system actually has. With IC Live, we have turned the line array on its end and applied digital steering technology to deliver better vertical pattern control and reduce sidewall reflections with few cabinets."

With the interlocking hardware system, IC Live users will be able to quickly and easily assemble four array configurations from two components: the full range IC Live array module and the ICL215S subwoofer. The IC Live module incorporates five neodymium 6.5-inch cone woofers and three neodymium compression drivers on purpose-designed waveguides. A multi-channel DSP/amplifier controls each transducer individually. Complex signal processing shapes the array's output and steers it in the desired direction. Steering the sound and not the box, the enclosure remains vertical, keeping sightlines open with a tall, narrow profile.

IC Live arrays produce narrow vertical beams of 30°, 25° and 20° that can be steered up or down by up to 30° at .01° resolution. Horizontal dispersion is a wide 150°. Onboard memory stores up to seven combinations of beamwidths and aiming angles for instant recall via rear panel pushbuttons. For higher SPL and an extra octave of beam steering in the lower midrange, two IC Live modules can be arrayed

"horn to horn."

The ICL215S is a dual 15-inch bandpass subwoofer that supplies the extra bass impact needed for high level music. A single ICL215S can be used as the base for one IC Live; a pair provides sturdy and safe support for a two-module array. IC Live arrays can also be suspended using industry-standard Aeroquip hardware.

IC Live systems are available with comprehensive Connect / Control / Supervise networking over standard Ethernet via RHAON, the Renkus-Heinz Audio Operations Network. RHAON delivers audio signals via CobraNet, AES/EBU digital or analog inputs. System operators can use a networked computer for real-time control of system and room tuning functions such as 12 parametric EQ filters, 340 milliseconds of delay and dynamics processing.

New Renkus-Heinz Iconyx R Models Incorporate Acoustical, Digital and Mechanical Advances

Introduced in 2005, Iconyx Digitally Steerable Array Systems are barely two years old. The highly successful product line is being re-introduced in an "R" version, with purpose-designed coaxial transducers, RHAON (Renkus-Heinz Audio Operations Network) technology and a slimmer, lighter weight enclosure.

"Iconyx is one of our most successful products," says Renkus-Heinz vice president of operations Rik Kirby. "We've had lots of opportunities to see how the system performs in applications from cathedrals to cruise ships, courtrooms to corporate auditoriums. As we evaluated the total Iconyx system, we identified significant improvements in many areas."

Inside every Iconyx R model are new co-axial transducers developed specifically for digitally steered arrays. "To narrow the vertical directivity at high frequencies, we designed these drivers with a vertical array of dual dome tweeters," says Renkus-Heinz senior vice president Ralph Heinz. "We've been able to significantly attenuate grating lobes, making the array's output even more coherent and produce even better intelligibility." The new drivers maintain the consistent wide horizontal  dispersion that has proven to be invaluable in Iconyx applications.

A multi-channel DSP-driven digital amplifier controls each Iconyx R driver individually, and interfaces with RHAON, the Renkus-Heinz Audio Operations Network. Audio signals can be delivered via CobraNet, AES 3 serial digital (AES/EBU) or analog formats. The RHAON DSP gives the user real-time control over 12 bands of parametric EQ, 340 milliseconds of delay, dynamics processing and other system tuning functions. RHAON also simplifies remote supervision with password protection, operator alerts and fault logging.

For venues that prefer a simpler way to adapt the sound system to different building functions, Iconyx R stores up to seven configurations in onboard memory. These can be recalled via preset select buttons on the Iconyx R itself or remotely via simple rotary switch connected to the resistor-ladder control input.

Iconyx R's advanced technology is housed in a new enclosure. "Many clients, and their architects, have chosen Iconyx because it's so easy to make it disappear," Renkus-Heinz national sales manager David Rahn points out. "The new one-piece extruded enclosure is even slimmer and lighter than the original." It is also available in custom colours and weather resistant versions for outdoor applications.

Renkus-Heinz Expands Sygma Line

Introduced in 2007, the Sygma Line from Renkus-Heinz is designed for flexibility and outstanding performance in a broad range of professional audio applications. "Sygma has become a vital growth platform for our business partners," says national sales manager David Rahn. "Along with enthusiastic support, they have given us excellent suggestions, to which we have listened. The results will be included in our presentation at InfoComm in Demo Room N113 and on display in Booth C4257."

New for InfoComm is the SG/SGX12S subwoofer. The extensive Sygma development process makes this compact 12-inch vented subwoofer an exceptional combination of high performance and superior value - the right choice to add low frequency punch to any Sygma system. Multiple versions are available: the externally powered SGX12S, the SG12S-2 with a 200 Watt digital amplifier, and the

SG12S-5 with 500 Watts of integrated Class D amplification. Also available, the RHAON-Empowered SG12S-2R and SG12S-5R. All versions are capable of at least 128 dB SPL from 60 to 120 Hz.

The Sygma Line now makes it easier to choose the best coverage pattern with expanded Complex Conic horn options. The SG/SGX121 is available either a 120° x 60° or a 90° x 60° Complex Conic horn. 60° x 40° and 90° x 40° Complex Conic horns are available for the SG/SGX151. Complex Conic horns can be rotated in the enclosure for wide or deep coverage patterns using either vertical or horizontal mounting.

To make the installers job easier, all Sygma cabinets are now available with optional Omnimount attachment points in addition to the standard U-Bracket and eyebolt screw threads. Weather-resistant enclosure configurations for outdoor installations are newly available as well. The stylish Sygma cabinets with their curved grills can now be ordered in custom colours in addition to black and white.

Movecat Offers a Guarantee Extension of up to 60 Months

Movecat lifting gear distributed by Think Abele is subject to the German Unfallverhütungsvorschriften der Berufsgenossenschaften (UVV), which are occupational safety and health regulations enacted by the German accident insurance institutions in the form of autonomous bylaws. Compliance with these binding duties must be certified by a UVV-test carried out once a year by a qualified person. Without a valid UVV, the operator's and owner´s insurance cover in Germany is forfeited in the event of damage or loss.

To ensure compliance with these legal requirements, Think Abele is offering a comprehensive service, which, over and above the obligatory UVV test, includes additional services. Among them are not only various measurements and tests of functionality but also maintenance of the lifting gear, any repairs that may prove necessary and a guarantee extension of up to 60 months. Further information is available on the company's web site: www.movecat.de.

In picture: Inspection Tag

Mobile Control Unit for the MRC-I Series

Think Abele has announced for the Movecat I-Motion MRC-16-ID Remote Controller a compact digital manual remote control capable of controlling up 16 chain hoists through MPC-I series devices via the I-Motion network. The MRC-16-ID Remote Controller, when combined with the Motion Power Controllers, meets all the requirements of the BGV D8, C1 and D8Plus VPLT SR 2.0 standards for installation work.

The mobile controller is equipped with an Emergency Off switch, GO button, an input keyboard, a backlit display and an NDC-C14F-C output female connector for direct operation with a Motion Power Controller. When an NDB-6/12 Network Distribution Box is used, the Remote Controller can also be operated with up to four other devices.

In picture: Movecat I-Motion MRC-16-ID

Movecat Presents New Chain Hoists in its Compact Series

Movecat has introduced the chain hoists of the new Compact series, a well-considered further development of the tried-and-tested ECO series. The new hoists are reliable and safe in operation, compact, lightweight and both intuitive and easy to use.

The well-balanced central gear block and the drive motor located to the side of it, combined with the protected fan-wheel, offer optimum head dissipation thereby extending the duty cycle. The modular structure of the devices in the series has made it possible to optimize to a considerable extent all the components in terms of weight. The result is a low unloaded-weight to load-capacity ratio that satisfies practical requirements (unloaded, the Compact 500 weighs only 30 kg including 18 metres of chain) and compact dimensions (455 x 240 x 260 mm).

Compact hoists are also equipped with a number of other new components such as maintenance-free brakes and an overload safety friction clutch guaranteeing safe and reliable operation even in sustained use. The safety friction clutch, which is mounted in front of the brakes, is patented as well as approved by both the accident prevention and insurance association and TÜV (Technical Inspection Authority). Standard features include a textile chain-bag, robust carrying handles and the new chain-sparing Basicplate chain-guide that makes it possible to use the device in standard installation positions or as a climbing hoist.

In picture: the Movecat Compact

Neumann Celebrates 80th Anniversary with Launch of TLM 67

In the world of studio microphones, the numbers "47" "67" and "87" have associations that inspire enthusiasm among professionals. It is no coincidence that the name of the new TLM 67 contains the number "67". In many respects, the TLM 67 - which makes its debut at Summer NAMM - is based on the "workhorse" of the 1960s, the legendary U 67. Like the U 67, the TLM 67 incorporates the K 67 capsule. In addition, the special new circuit design closely reproduces the sound characteristics of the classic U 67, without the use of tubes. Similar Neumann circuit

technology has already proved very successful in the TLM 49.

The TLM 67 is extremely versatile. Its three switchable directional characteristics (omnidirectional, cardioid and figure-8), selectable 10dB pre-attenuation, and high-pass filter permit detailed adjustments to be made depending upon the specific recording situation.

The TLM 67 introduces a novel Neumann dual-color design. The pearl-gray of the microphone body combined with the classic 'Neumann nickel' lends the microphone a touch of distinctive individuality. On the occasion of its 80^th anniversary, the Neumann company is honoring its founder, Georg Neumann, with a three-dimensional metal emblem on the front of the TLM 67.

As Wolfgang Fraissinet, president of marketing/sales at Neumann Berlin explains, "The design and circuit technology of the TLM 67 represent a contemporary development of the U 67, conveying its positive attributes to the present era."

Tannoy Stay One Step Ahead With EASE

Tannoy Limited has announced at InfoComm International that they have become the world's first loudspeaker manufacturer to license EASE Address.

EASE Address is the unique design verification software package that enables system designers and specifiers to quickly and accurately position, model and confirm ceiling distributed speaker systems utilising Tannoy loudspeaker products. Comparable to a reader-software it uses GLL or SPK definition files that define a specific ceiling or wall-mounted loudspeaker with regard to its geometrical and acoustical properties. Unlike conventional 2D ceiling speaker software, EASE Address allows for complex room shapes with varying ceiling heights.

The purpose of EASE Address is to provide both the end user, who needs to quickly develop a simple design for a ceiling loudspeaker system, as well as the developer, with a tool that allows the easy and quick prediction of the system performance in a given hall.  The functionality of EASE Address has been developed from EASE, the professional electro and room acoustic simulation software developed by ADA (Acoustic Design Ahnert) Berlin, Germany.

Tannoy's active role in the development of EASE Address reaffirms their position as a leading innovator in loudspeaker development. The software will be available as a free download from the Tannoy website in early July.

Artistic Licence Launch RDM Splitter Upgrade

Following the release of the RDM Standard V1.0 protocol as the long-awaited successor to RDM Draft V1.0, Artistic Licence has released an RDM Splitter Upgrade to convert its range of RDM splitters to support the new protocol.

With its customary foresight, Artistic Licence has been shipping its three RDM Splitters - DMX-Split RDM, Rack-Split RDM and Rail-Split RDM - with RDM Draft V1.0 for the last five years in readiness for the moment when the RDM protocol had been finalised. Now this moment has arrived, a simple upgrade module can transform all three Artistic Licence Splitters to use the latest Standard / HES version yet still be backwards compatible to the Draft version.

Customers can easily carry out the upgrade procedure themselves since it involves the replacement of a single chip only, with support manuals downloadable from the Artstic Licence website.

"The upgrade will be especially valuable to customers who already own Artistic Licence RDM splitters and wish to upgrade them," says technical director, Simon Hobday. "However, as more and more manufacturers are implementing RDM in fixtures and controllers, the infrastructure of DMX distribution will need to be upgraded. We therefore see this of particular advantage to those upgrading their DMX system as a whole or investing in new fixtures that use the RDM Standard."

RDM allows bi-directional communication over the DMX512 cable using the twisted pair connected to pins 2 and 3, enabling RDM devices to send status and fault information back to the console. The bi-directional communication also makes it easier to mix DMX installations with sophisticated Ethernet protocols such as Art-Net or ACN.

RDM allows a console to set the base address of the lamp without the need for dipswitches. The console simply searches the DMX cable for all connected devices and automatically patches them.

The console can also use RDM to download personalities direct from a moving light so there is no need to waste time locating fixture libraries.

All RDM Splitter Upgrade modules are unique to Artistic Licence Rack-Split RDM, DMX-Split RDM and Rail-Split RDM which, between them, provide solutions across rack-mounted, DIN-Rail or stand alone options.

All new RDM Splitter modules are shipping with the latest software included so no further upgrade is required.

Barco Introduces Broad Array of New Products at InfoComm 08

Barco unveiled a broad array of new products at this year's InfoComm 2008. Customers had the opportunity to experience the latest in LED displays, digital projectors, Creative LED, Image Processing and digital lighting, as Barco delivers the total solution with a full range of new products specifically designed to turn event designers' creativity loose.

Headlining at this year's show was the introduction of the FLM HD20 (1,980 x 1,080 resolution, 20K center lumens) and FLM R22+ (1,400 x 1,050 resolution, 22K center lumens), two new high brightness additions to the famed FLM projector family. Together with the existing features of the FLM series, these additions incorporate new technology which ensures minimal maintenance costs, increased light efficiency and reduction of overall power consumption.

During development of the new projectors, Barco also designed a new universal lamp housing for the whole family of FLM projectors. This new lamp housing offers numerous advantages over the previous housings such as increased brightness with less power consumption, enhanced image quality and reduction of the overall maintenance and logistics costs. In addition, a new internal warping card is being introduced enabling images to be projected onto curved surfaces.

To accompany the new FLM projectors, Barco introduced a new TLD+ High Definition lens, a high brightness range of lenses that will enhance the image quality even more. The new lenses are fully compatible with the existing RLM, SLM and FLM products.

Barco also unveiled VPx and the DCS-200 at this year's show. VPx is a cost effective Video Processor (VP) solution for widescreen Encore destinations. It operates just like a standard VP, providing the same layering capabilities, effects and output connectivity. The DCS-200 is a seamless switcher that expands the capabilities of Barco's DCS-100 by adding an independent preview output.

The recently launched DML-1200 and the NX-6 were also on show. The DML-1200 is a true digital moving luminaire, designed for the rental and staging market that can be used as both a super bright moving light source and a high quality video projector.

The NX-6, Barco's newest extension to the NX product line, is the industry's ultimate high-quality 6mm indoor LED display. Each NX-6 tile provides a 4200:1 contrast ratio and a calibrated output of 2000 NIT, and each LED uses black silicon resin instead of white epoxy to achieve its stunning visual clarity.

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