event news

Sales-All Reports Positive Start for Radical SGM Fixtures

 

Sales-All BV, the recently-formed division of Benelux rental giants, Rent-All, provided a vibrant showcase for the new portfolio of SGM products at the recent CUE 2012 trade fair, held at Rotterdam’s Ahoy.

Theatre and concert technicians — and other performing arts professionals — turned out at this bi-annual fair to see SGM’s new suite of game-changing, low-energy LED solutions, which formed the centerpiece of the Dutch company’s sound and light presentation.

Sales-All’s Bas van der Heiden, the man responsible for SGM sales, said the decision to exhibit at CUE 2012 for the first time had been well justified. “We dedicated a large part of our stand to SGM and visitors were really excited — particularly about the new X-5 (white LED) strobe and XC-5 (colour strobe). Many customers are now interested in selling these products as part of the full SGM range.”

SGM confirmed that they have received orders generally for both their revolutionary energy efficient strobes — which require a fraction of the power of conventional xenon strobes.

Their equally groundbreaking low-profile P-5 — at 21,000 lumens output, three and a half times brighter than SGM’s original Palco 5 — also looks like being another winner, as does the Q-7. This is a powerful, tiltable low-profile wall washer, which represents a new way of utilising the LED’s — since no optics are needed to create the extremely powerful wash. The result, once again, is ultra low power consumption, a perfect colour mix and no chromatic dispersion.

In picture: X-5 and XC-5 take pride of place on the Sales-All stand at CUE 2012

3rd February 2012

Christie Salutes Partner Success at InAVation Awards 2012

Christie products were featured in a high proportion of the nominations short-listed in the project categories for this year’s prestigious EMEA InAVation Awards.

Demonstrating their versatility in a myriad of different market segments across the EMEA region — ranging from Romania to Abu Dhabi — Christie projection, display and video processor control solutions have assisted their Partners in five high-profile installations.

One of the highlights of the evening was the awarding of the Most InAVative Corporate Facility, featuring a particularly high standard of entry. The sought after accolade was handed over to Focus 21 for the resplendent atrium at the London Stock Exchange Group headquarters in Paternoster Square. Here the integrators have installed no fewer than 508 MicroTiles — the largest single installation in EMEA — to keep market data constantly streaming live, and with high visual referencing, to those assembled on the ground floor.

This outstanding integration in one of the London’s financial district’s landmark sites, displays critical market data, bespoke company content and live news streaming from CNBC across the various advanced Christie MicroTiles structures. Visitors entering the London Stock Exchange Group’s London office are now greeted in the main hall by four strips of MicroTiles facing each other and consisting of 29 and 31 MicroTiles each side respectively, leading to an impressive video wall that uses 132 MicroTiles in an 11 x 12 array.

A further MicroTiles video wall (in 8 x 6 array) has been installed on the balcony overlooking the atrium, and on the ground level is a mosaic of 46 MicroTiles of different depths and heights, while outside the Atrium, visitors are kept updated with another set of four columns of MicroTiles (in a 2 x 4 array). Two portable columns of Christie MicroTiles in a 1 x 5 configuration – with their own power supply – complete the installation.

The displays are managed by six Christie Spyder X20 processors with content offered from a variety of sources, including Scala Infochannel. A Crestron controller manages lighting, audio, live camera feed and orchestrates an automated opening and closing ceremony of the market. At the same time there is the ability to send live broadcast feeds to the LSE’s in-house studio for onward transmission to news channels.

In the other categories, various projectors, including HD18K’s, can be found among the 42 lecture rooms at the new United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) at Al Ain in Abu Dhabi — installed by Visionaire and winner of the Most InAVative Education Facility category.

At the Eugène Ionescu Cultural Experience (Complexul Cultural 'Eugen Ionescu) in Slatina — installers AVITECH Romania used a pair of Christie’s ultra-compact, DCI-compliant CP2210 cinema projectors, to equip their new digital cinema rooms — a fact that has been recognised as the Most InAVative Leisure & Entertainment category.

The Unified Communications Project category sees proAV’s advanced integration at the new London offices of global insurance organisation, Catlin Ltd joining the prestigious group of InAVation Awards project winners —again using a selection of Christie instruments. These include three HD-10K-M in the auditorium and a further device in the café. proAV features again, with the high-profile integration of the Japanese Nomura Bank in London where a Christie Spyder controls the main auditorium, the second nomination involving Christie in the Corporate Facility shortlist.

Commented Dale Miller, vice president, Christie EMEA: “We would like to congratulate our partners on their achievement, and InAVate for their forward-thinking recognition of these outstanding installations.

“Christie constantly endeavours to supply its partners with the most efficient and intuitive solutions to implement projects which are becoming increasingly complex as the technology advances. This involves working ever more closely alongside the project teams, offering the best technical expertise, and evolving custom solutions where necessary.

“It’s very rewarding when this work ends up on an internationally-recognised Awards platform such as this.”

3rd February 2012

Good Quality Speakers Wanted!

Have you worked on a complex or high profile project that you think others might be interested to hear about? Or solved a seemingly impossible lighting challenge? If so, then the organisers of Showlight 2013 would like to hear from you.

Showlight has always been regarded as one of the best networking events in the international lighting calendar, with a conference programme of around 25 papers presented by a real mix of industry people talking about their work and ideas. Supported by a focused exhibition of 40 companies, Showlight is fun and informative - no hard sells, no mind-numbing seminars and no hidden costs!

The programme of speakers covers the whole gamut of lighting genres – theatre, film, television, event and architectural – as well as the technical wizardry behind our trade. Since the first event in 1981, delegates have enjoyed hearing from those who are at the pinnacle of their profession as well as from some who are just starting out.

Without a doubt, it is the contribution made by the speakers that makes Showlight the most stimulating and rewarding event in the lighting diary and potential categories for the 2013 event include: Unusual and special rigs you have used; It’s my design; Light sources – new sources, unusual sources, sources of the last resort; Special effects; I tried this and it didn’t work – a topic that could prove the most useful paper of all!

Papers that stir lengthy debate can be discussed in more detail over morning coffee, lunch and dinner, as speakers do not simply give their paper and depart – at the heart of every Showlight is the opportunity for delegates and speakers to meet and mingle over all three days, and particularly during the social events which make Showlight so special. Previous events have seen such varied speakers as Roberto Schaefer talking about his work on the film of The Kite Runner, Andi Watson explaining his all LED touring lighting system for Radiohead’s In Rainbows world tour, and big ideas on small budgets: Lighting on a shoestring by Carol Sadler.

Showlight 2013 is sponsored by Robe and takes place in the fairy-tale castle in Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic. This is the first time Showlight has taken place in central Europe, and interest from both potential delegates and exhibitors is high. Speakers receive free registration, which includes all meals and tours, and attendance at both the company and the Conference Dinner.

Showlight 2013 takes place from 18th to the 21st of May 2013 in Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic. Anyone interested in presenting a paper should email papers@showlight.org before the end of May 2012.

www.showlight.org

3rd February 2012

Highlite International at Pro Light+Sound 2012

The annual Pro Light+Sound in Frankfurt is approaching fast. In just a few weeks time the show will open its doors to the public.

As usual Highlite International will have a prominent presence at this show. In hall 11.0 booth D07 and D11 Highlite will reveal over 200 new products in its brands DMT, DAP Audio and Showtec.

During the show some ground-breaking novelties will be shown to the public. The Showtec brand will introduce some new exciting LED products. In all segments Showtec will offer some new products. Light effects, LED Spots and some very cool LED moving heads will be prominently displayed on the vast 350 square meter booth.

Thanks to the close cooperation with one of Europe’s most innovating manufacturer for textiles in the event industry, Showtec will offer an exciting and new range of innovative textiles and accessories.

DMT will show its latest additions by means of its new P10 SMD screen which is extremely lightweight and user friendly, as well its new P14,4 mesh screen which can be built in curved shapes. There will be sneak previews of the latest KlingNet fixtures. A successful innovative protocol for plug and play use of LED screens and pixel fixtures developed by Arkaos.

Last but not least, DAP Audio will launch a bunch of new products. During the last year the DAP Audio development team refreshed some major product ranges. No compromises have been made in order to offer nothing but the best to users, and the results of the team’s hard work will be presented proudly during this show.

The Highlite team invites you to discover the new highlights for 2012, as usual in a relaxing atmosphere with plenty of refreshments.

1st February 2012

Christie Combines the Best of the Best at ISE 2012

Taking some of the best design elements of award-winning showcases it presented around the globe in 2011 — and integrating them into a single concept — Christie will exhibit a vast suite of products and solutions in EMEA for the first time at ISE 2012 from adjacent large-scale, two-tier booths (Hall 1, Stand H27 and H40).

All premium portfolios will be strongly focused in a series of targeted zones — including the largest Christie MicroTiles display wall seen at a trade show – as well as a defined broadcast area, an entire section showcasing entry level projectors, and a dedicated cinema function showing state-of-the-art Christie Solaria 4K DLP Cinema digital projection.

Emphasised Dale Miller, EMEA vice president, Christie: “For any visitors interested in projection — irrespective of the application — the Christie stand should be a ‘must visit,’ since it will feature the largest range of signature products and visual solutions in the industry.”

With projectors ranging from 4,200 to 35,000 lumens output, from XGA to 4K resolution, and with 2D and 3D capability, Christie will provide a solution to match any application. Visitors will be able to experience and learn more about many of these projectors at the dedicated ‘shooting’ gallery.

On display will be the new and expanded LCD range, offering different resolutions, including models such as the Christie L2K1500, Christie L2K1000, Christie LWU505, Christie LWU420 and the recently announced Christie LX1200 and Christie LHD700.

The new Christie E Series projector range will also be displayed and can be expected to attract high industry interest. Christie’s ‘reassuringly inexpensive’ range of 1-chip DLP projectors brings the Christie brand pedigree within reach of the wider commercial market by offering an incredibly low cost of ownership. Applications include small auditoriums and medium-to-large meeting, training, and conference rooms.

Another new generation platform on display is the Christie J Series. The 3-chip DLP projector platform replaces the existing Xenon-based high performance projectors and adds industry recognised features such as liquid cooling and embedded Christie Twist for image-warping and edge-blending, which eliminates the need for additional electronics cards or external processors. Driven by a Xenon illumination system that offers the best colour reproduction and stability, J Series also offers lenses with Intelligent Lens System (ILS) functionality and three resolutions, SXGA+, HD and WUXGA.

The range includes Mirage J Series high-performance, active stereo projectors providing exceptional performance. Easy to set up and configure, these models are compact, yet powerful and flexible. The new capabilities include full native resolution 3D inputs of 60Hz per eye and triple flash 144Hz 3D for exceptional 3D movie content playback. Christie J Series products target a wide range of applications within the rental staging and fixed install markets, as well as advanced pixel-mapping and visualisation (via the high-end Christie Roadsters) and simulation.

Christie will present its one-stop shop within an eye-catching Christie MicroTiles environment, which will include an impressive 21 x 6 wall. The multi award winning building blocks will be showcased in a wide variety of geometric shapes, including the Skyscraper, the Digital Bookshelf, the Digital Bookcase, the Digital Dashboard and the Triptych shape.

Visitors should also look out for Christie’s award-winning Broadcast set, featuring the interactive Christie MicroTiles wall and Christie MicroTiles bookcase, with the multi-touch Interactivity Kit and JumpStart front end content solution, with the aid of a pair of M Series devices offering a rear projection blend.

Christie JumpStart, which will be launching this year at ISE, is a PC-based software solution for positioning a wide range of content onto a 5-10 megapixel digital canvas with minimal effort. Combining user-friendly JumpStart software with reliable HP hardware, Christie JumpStart enables customers to arrange windows of local content — including video files, graphics, applications, Blu-ray and DVD movies, colour swatches and text — along with optional input channels onto the digital display, and schedule playback on a timeline. Layouts can be edited on the server itself or a remote PC, and saved as ‘scenarios’.

Windows 7 recognises the Christie Interactivity Kit, a modular frame that attaches around the perimeter of a planar surface to create an interactive touch screen, as a touch interface natively, meaning that touch events are processed in a similar way to a mouse device. The Interactivity Kit, which will be presented as a technical preview at ISE 2012, allows multiple users to interact simultaneously with a rectangular video wall with sufficient resolution and speed to seamlessly support all common finger-based gestures, such as pinching, flicking, rotating and scrolling.

Far from being contained within its own real estate, Christie will also have projectors firing outwards in different directions — onto long standing partners Stewart and Draper screens on adjacent stands across the aisles (the latter demonstrating a dual edge-blend J Series projectors onto a curved wall). Another industry-first projector being exhibited on the stand is the Christie D4K35, the first non-cinema 4K DLP® projector.

Christie control room solutions will include the Entero LED video wall solution along with MicroTiles and the latest FHD551-X backlit LED panels, launched in September last year. Meanwhile, projecting onto Christie’s own secondary stand will be an encore performance of the spectacular display unveiled at InfoComm 2011, showing for the first time at ISE the largest example in EMEA of Christie 3D mapping ever witnessed at a trade show (onto a façade in front of the hospitality area).

Finally, another major diversion, which has moved Christie further towards concert touring, is Christie Nitro Solutions. In particular, Christie will feature its newly launched Christie YK50 Dual-Arm moving projector yoke in various areas of the stand.

Recognizing the importance of education within the pro-AV industry, Christie is hosting several presentations at its stand It will also participate in collateral events such as the sponsorship of the Dynamic Events Conference — aimed at the use of lighting, sound, video technology and staging — while also supporting ISE as one of the Hosted Buyer sponsors. Dale Miller concludes: “Practical knowledge is fundamental to growing the industry and as technology becomes more sophisticated in terms of what you can creatively achieve, then education become even more of a priority which suppliers like ourselves must take a lead on. We are therefore proud to be involved in the inaugural Dynamic Events, an exciting new live events conference programme which will focus on large scale entertainment and sporting environments in the wake of the London 2012 Olympics.”

31st January 2012

AC-ET to Host Exclusive Green Hippo & PixelRange UK Open Days

A.C Entertainment Technologies (AC-ET) Ltd’s Video and Lighting divisions are holding an exclusive 2012 UK open days in conjunction with Green Hippo and PixelRange on February 28 in the South and on March 1 in the North of England. The events will highlight the latest innovations from these leading brands, and explore the hottest developments in video and lighting convergence.

The simple, powerful and flexible control of video sources on to multi-screen and other display surfaces has become an essential element of any creative production. The open days will give attendees the chance to discover for themselves why the award-winning Hippotizer range is arguably the industry’s leading real-time video playback solution.

Catch a demo of the latest Hippotizer v3 software, which continues to set the benchmark for versatile media control with features such as UberPan for controlling multiple Hippotizers as a single canvas, and VideoMapper for fitting and shaping content across different scenic elements with stunning results.

Creative productions are also increasingly demanding the greater level of artistic control and energy efficiency afforded by LED-based lighting solutions. The open days will give attendees the chance to discover for themselves why PixelRange are one of the industry’s most innovative providers of LED-based batten and Par lighting solutions.

Catch a demo of the versatile SmartLine intelligent RGBW LED battens range, which in addition to providing a powerful light source, is an ideal display surface for pixel mapping video content onto. The LED line-up also includes the QPar high output RGBW fixture and PixelSmart Par, which combines a vast RGBW colour palette with warm white LEDs for a brilliantly bright white.

AC-ET - the exclusive UK and Ireland distributor for Green Hippo and master European distributor for PixelRange - will host the two open days at its state-of-the-art demo facilities in High Wycombe and Leeds.

Geared for all types of user, the events will include separate introductory and advanced training sessions, lunch and refreshments, and a prize draw to win various branded swag and other goodies!

For further details and to register your interest, visit http://www.ac-et.com/events/convergence-open-days.asp

www.ac-et.com

30th January 2012

Ashly Audio: First Time Exhibitor at ISE Amsterdam

Jointly hosted by InfoComm International and CEDIA, ISE (Integrated Systems Europe) became the A/V industry's largest trade show last year, drawing almost 35,000 attendees.

Ashly Audio, which has been represented by one of their distributors in previous years, will have its own stand (#7V214) at this year's show (31 January to 2 February in Amsterdam). In addition to its stalwart network-enabled amplifiers and Protea(tm) processors, Ashly will demonstrate the capabilities of its new,

highly-efficient KLR-Series amplifiers, all-in-one Pema(tm) multi-channel amp with on-board Protea(tm) DSP processor, intuitive FR-Series network fader remotes, and the new TM-Series mixer/amplifiers.

"Our international business has grown significantly in recent years," said Ashly's president, Mark Wentling (pictured), who will be joined by John Sexton, VP of sales and marketing, at the show. "We're looking forward to meeting face-to-face with customers and industry friends from around the world. Of course, we're also looking forward to introducing a broad audience to the unique value, functionality, and reliability of the Ashly product line."

In picture: Mark Wentling, president of Ashly Audio, will be in attendance at ISE in Amsterdam.

30th January 2012

AC-ET at the 2012 BSC Show

A.C. Entertainment Technologies (AC-ET) Ltd. will be featuring new film lighting innovations from Gekko Technology, Chroma-Q and Mole Richardson at the 2012 British Society of Cinematographers (BSC) Show at Elstree Film Studios in Borehamwood, UK, on February 3 and 4 (Stand 109).

BSC is dedicated to showcasing the latest equipment, facilities and services available to the film and TV production sectors.

AC-ET’s stand will be exhibiting the leading brands that it distributes to the film and TV lighting industry. It will also highlight services like AC-ET’s Cable Express, which is among the most comprehensive custom cable assembly facilities in the industry, with instant access to massive stocks of cables and connectors and super-quick turnaround times.

AC-ET is the exclusive UK dealer for the high quality Chroma-Q range of LED technologies and will be showcasing the latest Chroma-Q Studio Force daylight (D) and variable (V) white light sources. Studio Force V models each offer 3,000K - 6,100K CCT variable whites, with laboratory calibrated 3200K and 5600K pre-sets, and are specifically designed for film, TV and broadcast lighting applications. An extreme output ranging from 16,900 lumens up to 25,400 lumens across Studio Force V 48 & 72 (inch) / 1.2m and 1.8m battens means they can evenly wash very large areas. They also feature smooth, ‘theatrical grade’ dimming, optional lens media accessories and quick release fixings for easy adjustment. The range also includes the Studio Force V 12 multi-purpose fixture, which features an output of 5,300 lumens and is available with optional spigot adaptor, diffuser / soft box attachment, and other accessories.

All three models are also available as Studio Force D - 6,100K CCT, daylight white versions which provide an extreme output ranging from 6,000 lumens for the multi-purpose D 12 fixture up to 28,000 lumens for the V 72 batten.

Mole Richardson has a long history dating back to 1927 as one of the best quality equipment manufacturers in the film industry. At BSC the MoleLED 12 and the MoleLED Single will be on show. MoleLED is a design collaboration with a major lamp manufacturer. It provides tungsten and daylight white light that parallels both the spectral sensitivity curves of film and of the visible light spectrum. The MoleLED 12-Pack fixtures consist of 12 Osram Kreios LED circuit boards each with 20 high output LEDs – giving a total of 240 individual sources which are blended into one, single soft light source.

The MoleLED Single is a ‘single’ version of the 12-Pack, a “go-anywhere, rig-anywhere” lighting solution that is ideal for illuminating interviews, news desks, car rigs, as a general OB Light and also good for lectern / podium applications.

From Gekko Technology, AC-ET will show a full range of colour-tuneable LED soft, hard and key lights for studio use, including the kelvinTILE, the popular karesslite 6006 DD and variants, plus the karesslite 6012 - which is a wide format version of the fixture - and also the kedo, the latest addition to the product line. All Gekko models feature an attractive ergonomic design and are highly efficient, emitting an excellent and accurate quality of light and colour temperature.

The stand will also feature a selection of other relevant specialist brands and product lines that it distributes, including Manfrotto / Avenger support and grip equipment.

Representatives from the experienced and knowledgeable AC-ET specialist film and TV sales team will be on hand for advice and queries.

www.ac-et.com

27th January 2012

MT Pro at the Event Production Show

MT Pro Ltd. will be starting a busy year of trade shows at the Event Production Show at Olympia on the 1st and 2nd February. This will be the first show undertaken by the new company, part of the MilTec Group. MT Pro is the distributor for LEDHead LED lighting and MT Audio products in the UK and Ireland.

On the stand will be a selection of LEDHead high output LED lighting products including Parcans, battens and automated lighting. From the MT Audio range will be the new HLP horn loaded system. All of these products are designed and tested for the professional market by MilTec (UK) Ltd.

“We had a very good end to 2011 and January 2012 has been busy too” said Tony Bailey, pro sales manager. “The outlook for the next few months is also good, with plenty of enquiries coming in for the Spring. The new products launched at the end of last year have been selling well into the rental and installation markets. This will be a good opportunity to take a look at some of them and talk about the future.”

MT Pro will be on stand 104.

www.mt-pro.co.uk

27th January 2012

coolux to present Pandoras Box Version 5 at ISE

At the upcoming ISE 2012 in Amsterdam, coolux GmbH will present its new Pandoras Box Version 5 hard- and software. A special visual treat will be the impressive atmosphere 4K content, which will be displayed on a massive 152 inch Panasonic screen, using coolux Pandoras Box.

In addition to seeing the award winning product family in action, visitors will also get a sneak peek at the new coolux content encryption and licensing technology, which is scheduled for release later this year.

The official coolux website’s new content download section will also be presented to the public for the first time.

The coolux QUAD Server and QUAD Player range will be of particular interest to ISE visitors interested in state of the art Digital Signage technology.

coolux GmbH can be found at booth number: #7N176.

26th January 2012

Pixled at ISE 2012

Leading European designed LED manufacturer Pixled launches its new Pixled F-10i/o - the first of two new fully IP-65 rated indoor/outdoor LED displays – on Booth F41 in Hall 11 at the Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) exhibition in Amsterdam, January 31st – February 2nd.

The new product features a real pixel pitch of 10.4mm resolution and is populated with 3in1 SMD chips.

The die-cast aluminium modules measure 50 x 50 x 4.5cm and are ultra-lightweight at just 28kg per square metre.

With 5000 Nits of brightness, and the IP-65 rating applying to both front and back of the screen, Pixled F10 i/o is the ideal product for a wide variety of indoor and outdoor projects and applications.

As with all Pixled products, it is robustly built, quality engineered and ready for the rigours of touring and events environments.

The tiles have been developed specifically with rental and staging companies in mind, and are sold in combination with European designed and manufactured hanging brackets, foot system and flight cases. This ensures full portability and very quick set up and tear-down times.

Next, Pixled will add the Pixled F-8i/o 8mm pitch variant to this new indoor/outdoor product range.

The F-10i/o display will have a primary spot on Pixled's booth at ISE 2012, and in addition to this, other Pixled products highlighted will be the only European cross rental sources of 6mm and 15mm LED screen surface.

Pixled F-6 will be shown in combination with its full HD Mitsubishi processing option.

Quantities of the very popular Pixled F-15 have recently been purchased by Faber Audiovisueel from The Netherlands, and Videotechnik Bär and Rent Event Tec Gmbh, both from Germany.

Also new from Pixled is the full Linx (by Radiant) product line, which will be displayed in a creative setup utilising all three of the latest Linx LED surfaces – the Linx-18, Linx-25 and Linx-30.

Pixled was recently appointed as the exclusive European distributor for Linx.

24th January 2012

Alcons Returns to ISE 3D Theatre

For the second year running and underpinning the technology’s appeal, the ISE trade show’s Rooms E105 and 106, adjacent to Hall 10 features a 3D Theatre, allowing visitors to experience the very best that the technology has to offer. Having supplied a highly praised system in 2011, Alcons Audio has been invited once again to provide the 3D Theatre’s sound system.

The ISE 3D Theatre will feature a daily presentation by Alcons co-founder Tom Back on the company’s latest 3D audio technology. Taking place each day, the presentation will demonstrate how Alcons’ proprietary pro-ribbon transducer products enhance the 3D experience.

“There is a real upward trend for Digital Cinema and Alcons systems are proving to be very popular,” says Tom. “With 24-bit resolution and up to 16 channels of non-compressed audio, the demands are much greater in terms of dynamic capabilities, frequency response and transient response.”

Alcons pro-ribbon transducer technology, in combination with developments like array technology and coverage control, have brought remarkable width and depth to the imaging of stereo and multi-channel content, making it possible to deliver the best and most lifelike experience to the audiences of 3D shows.

“Alcons R&D department took up the challenge of producing a cinema sound solution that allows a non-compressed 1:1 reproduction of a movie’s soundtrack, from the most delicate vocals to the biggest explosion,” adds Tom.

The ISE 3D theatre is a collaboration between Alcons Audio, DVS (server and content), Image Screens (projection screen), Infitec (3D glasses) and Lang AG (projection. It features a 5.1 surround system, based on an Alcons CRMS (15” LF, 8” MF, 4” pro-ribbon HF) front system and 12 CRMS surround speakers (which feature 8” MF and 4” pro-ribbon HF).

Powered and controlled by ALC2 and ALC4 amplified loudspeaker controllers and DDP™ digital drive processors, all channels feature ‘studio-grade’ AES/EBU digital-to-analogue conversion.

“It should be a stunning experience that will demonstrate just what can be achieved,” says Tom. “We look forward to once again showing ISE visitors how good the sound in 3D cinema can be.”

Alcons will also be showing the latest in its industry-leading systems on the show floor in Hall 6 on Stand N132. Products on display will include the QR36 full range line-source column, the LR7 micro line-array; BC322 all-carbon cone, cardioid, compact, self-contained subwoofer; CR2 cinema system; as well as some exciting new developments in its cinema range.

ISE2012 takes place at the Amsterdam RAI from 31st January – 2nd February.

www.alconsaudio.com

24th January 2012

European Début For New Yamaha DXR Loudspeakers and MGP Mixers at ISE 2012

In addition to presenting an ever-expanding range of products for the professional installation markets, ISE 2012 sees Yamaha giving a European début to its new DXR series of active loudspeakers and the new MGP series of audio mixers.

The DXR series comprises four full-range models: the DXR8, DXR10, DXR12 and DXR15. Each features a high-efficiency, 1100W Class D amplifier, providing an SPL of up to 133dB and delivering deep bass, clear mid-range and accurate high frequencies. Further high quality features include FIR-X tuning and D-CONTOUR dynamic multi-band processing.

Suitable for a wide range of applications, including installation in commercial and public premises, churches and schools, the DXR series was designed in conjunction with NEXO and delivers powerful, consistent and high quality sound in any situation.

Also on show will be Yamaha's other ranges of loudspeakers, amplifiers and audio processors, including an array of its MY series I/O cards. These allow the seamless integration of the company's products with a wide range of different audio formats and will include the recently launched MY4-AEC echo cancellation card.

The compact MGP series of mixers makes optimum use of both analogue and digital technologies. Comprising two models, the MGP12X and MGP16X, they respectively offer 12 or 16 channels in footprints measuring 348mm or 447mm wide by 495mm deep. The combination of small size, extensive facilities and ease of use makes them ideal for installations where quality and reliability are essential.

The WORKproCA range of contractor installation products will be another feature of the stand, where staff will be on hand to welcome visitors and explain the many options available with Yamaha installation products.

ISE Europe takes place from 31st January to 2nd February at Amsterdam RAI, with Yamaha exhibiting on Booth 1H6.

24th January 2012

PLM 20000Q Awarded Pro-Audio Industry’s Biggest Accolade

Lab.gruppen’s flagship PLM 20000Q Powered Loudspeaker Management system has been honoured with a TEC Award. More precisely it won the award for Outstanding Technical Achievement in Amplification Hardware/Studio Sound Reinforcement at the 27th Annual TEC Awards ceremony.

Copresented by the TEC Foundation and NAMM, the TEC Awards is the pro-audio industry’s most prestigious awards show honouring outstanding achievement in product innovation and sound production.

Lab.gruppen, which was nominated in the category alongside the likes of Crown and JBL, were awarded the prize at a glittering ceremony held as part of the NAMM Show in California.

The TEC award was collected on the night by TC Group Americas CEO Marc Bertrand, who paid tribute to the skills of Lab.gruppen engineers in Sweden. Bertrand said: “Knowing the hard work and diligence that the team at Lab.gruppen put into creating the PLM 20000Q, I can say that this recognition feels truly deserved. I also have to offer them my congratulations on producing this award-winning product.”

The PLM 20000Q has already found a home in the inventories of many touring and rental companies across the world, with users favouring it’s superior functionality and the integration of Lake Processing.

Jon Alkhagen, managing director of Lab.gruppen, said: “All of the team at Lab.gruppen are delighted that the PLM 20000Q has been honoured with such a prestigious award such as this, the most respected and ultimate award in pro-audio. We would like to thank the TEC Foundation and everyone who voted for us, and rest assured, we will use this recognition to drive forward the excellence in innovation that Lab.gruppen users have come to recognise and demand from our products.”

24th January 2012

Crestron Announces Exclusive Training programmes for ISE

At ISE 2012, Crestron will be running a full schedule of free training programmes to Crestron dealers, including its flagship course, the DigitalMedia Certified Designer.

In addition to this there will also be a ‘New Technology Showcase’ and ‘The Next Generation in Crestron Control Systems and Touch Panels’ sessions. Alongside the classes - at their stand (#1F6) – the company will be introducing a range of breakthrough technologies that lay the foundation of AV technology for the future.

The day-long DMC-D course will provide dealers with the best practices of designing, installing and commissioning a DigitalMedia system. DigitalMedia is the only complete solution that manages and distributes protected digital content over a single copper wire or fibre.

Also at ISE 2012, Crestron technical and sales specialists, product line managers and engineers will be teaching a full schedule of both manufacturers and industry training seminars. These sessions will provide the latest new industry-leading products and technology from Crestron, and a chance to increase dealer’s knowledge of vital industry trends and best practices to help your business succeed.

23rd January 2012

Artistic Licence to Moderate Lighting Panel Discussion at the Dynamic Events Conference 2012

Artistic Licence founder, Wayne Howell, is to chair a lighting panel discussion at the Dynamic Events Conference being held at 4.00 – 5.30pm on Monday 30th January, RAI, Amsterdam.

Dynamic Events is a new conference aimed at the use of lighting, sound, video technology and staging in large scale entertainment and sporting environments.

The lighting session participants include distinguished lighting designers Durham Marenghi, Paul Collison, Koert Vermeulen and David Eversfield. The panel will be discussing the challenges faced in the production of unique large scale events with a global televised audience – from technical to cultural to financial.

After each panellist and the moderator have introduced themselves to the audience, the panellists will take turns to lead on a variety of topics guaranteed to produce a lively and productive session. The discussions will end with an audience Q&A.

Moderator, Wayne Howell, anticipates: “The calibre of the panellists should make for a ‘must-see’ event. Their collective experiences are sure to provide many valuable insights, not to mention a few good stories!”

For more information, please visit: www.dynamicevents.org

20th January 2012

HHB at BVE London

Broadcast audio technology specialists HHB Communications will be highlighting a comprehensive range of professional audio loudness tools during the BVE London show at Earls Court 2 on Stand C40 from 14th to 16th February.

As new loudness standards gain traction in Europe those in the media supply chain are adopting a mix of hardware and software loudness technologies for both linear and non-linear environments. HHB will be focusing on four loudness applications: OB and Live Production, Post Production, Playout and Archive with technologies from DK-Technologies, Dolby, Nugen, RTW, TC Electronic and Wohler. HHB product specialists will be on hand to discuss the latest in loudness technology.

Alongside Scrub, its Soho-based subsidiary specialising in serving the post production industry, HHB will also be demonstrating Avid’s new Pro Tools 10 software and HDX hardware. The new Avid products offer great advantages for Pro Tools users, delivering faster performance, higher sound quality and innovative new features for audio post and music production professionals.

Visitors are invited to stop by the HHB stand to collect a free copy of the new HHB 2012 Catalogue and to enter a free prize draw to win an Olympus LS-20M Portable Audio and Video Recorder. With more than 2,000 products on over 200 pages, the 2012 HHB Catalogue is the biggest yet and a must have for any pro audio professional.

HHB is also a proud sponsor of the show’s popular Audio Room, where industry-leading audio and broadcast professionals host seminars on the latest industry topics.

HHB’s director of sales Martin O’Donnell states: “BVE is now the leading broadcast event of its type in the UK, and HHB is looking forward to showing its visitors the latest and best in professional audio.”

The HHB stand will also feature new Portable Recorders from Olympus (2-Ch LS-100) and Roland (6-Ch R-26), new consoles from Studer (OnAir 1500) and Yamaha (01V96i) and the latest in audio technology from other leading brands including Dynaudio, Genelec, Mogami, Neyrinck, RØDE and Soundfield.

In picture: TC Electronic's LM6 Radar Loudness Meter, distributed in the UK by HHB.

20th January 2012

New HD Video Cable, Mains Units and Fibre Video Routing from Canford at BVE

Canford is to launch a new intermediate size of its SDV low fire hazard installations cable range at BVE. New sequentially powered up and down mains distribution units will also be on display as will the new Canford manufactured mains power distribution units and fibre optic termination panels featuring most industry standard fibre optic couplers. Voice Technologies miniature high quality microphones and headsets will be exhibited including the latest waterproof versions. Products from the innovative Nevion fibre optic signal processing, conversion and routing ranges can be seen alongside Canford’s D’n’A audio cables. A selection of the latest portable audio recorders from Tascam including the new DR-40 will also be on Canford’s stand.

The new Canford SDV cable type will initially be available in two types. SDV-I-LFH is the standard type with low smoke, low fire hazard properties and the SDV-I-X-LFH has extended performance and also meets all current zero halogen and low smoke requirements. SDV-I, has dimensions and performance falling in between the existing standard and low loss types. This type of cable is already very popular in Germany and other parts of mainland Europe and is now becoming increasingly popular in the UK. A range of high quality Telegartner connectors, Wiha crimping tools and accessories will also be made available for the SDV-I cable sizes.

The latest range of Canford manufactured fibre optic termination panels will be seen at the London show for the first time. The panels are based on the existing rugged highly regarded broadcast pattern designs. They are fabricated from extruded aluminium and come featuring a variety of industry standard fibre optic couplers.

Canford’s new series of mains power distribution units (MDUs) featuring both sequential power up and power down will also be on display at BVE. Versions will be available with power filtering and in a variety of inlet and outlet types based on IEC or Neutrik Powercon connectors. The addition of the new series takes Canford’s self manufactured range of mains powering units to well over 300 variations.

Canford will also show products from Nevion’s Flashlink and VikinX ranges. The products cover signal processing and distribution, format conversion and routing. Nevion also manufactures highly modular solutions encompassing IP and optical transport, state-of-the-art compression and routing for any video format over any network infrastructure—within buildings or across continents.

Samples of the unique Canford D’n’A cable range (digital and analogue) will be on display. The D’n’A range takes Canford’s existing well respected range of audio cable designs and updates them to provide a true 100ohm impedance making the cables perfect for digital as well as analogue signals. An impedance of 100 ohms has been proven to be an optimal impedance for AES/EBU digital audio signals as well as analogue microphone and line level signals. Many of the cables come in Low Fire Hazard (LFH) versions.

Miniature high definition video monitors for DSLR and camcorder video capture from Ruige will also be on the stand with a selection of stereo and standard condenser microphones suitable for DSLR video/sound capture including a new certified waterproof miniature mic from Voice Technologies for whom Canford is the exclusive UK distributor . Also interfaces that enable the use of fully professional phantom power mic types with DSLR and semi pro camcorders will be on display.

19th January 2012

Step Inside the Innovation Incubator at IOEX

The International Outdoor Event Expo (IOEX) has launched its Innovation Incubator area at the exhibition, designed to give event organisers the chance to see quick fire pitches from the most exciting innovations to hit the event market in 2012.

IOEX, which takes place at ExCeL London from the 6th – 8th March will give the latest products and services a showcase platform, with the challenge to pitch themselves in a rapid 15 minute window. The concepts must be unpatented or within six months of their launch date.

Mark Gordon, sales director for IOEX explained: “This provides an excellent opportunity to launch new products and services in front of a very receptive audience in the live events sector. This will be great for companies looking to get feedback for ideas and concepts, spreading the word about the availability of revolutionary products and getting valuable business leads.

“From the research that we did with focus groups, innovations were something that everyone was keen to hear about so we have developed this show feature to present them all in one place, making it time effective for organisers. We will be putting together a programme of entries to run across the three days so visitors can attend multiple sessions and see the latest innovations.”

Suppliers to the events industry are invited to submit their innovations in product or service at http://www.ioex.co.uk/incubatorentries by 1st February to take part.

19th January 2012

Annual Industry Conference 2012

Since the 2011 conference, it has become even more important for the industry to be proactive, enterprising, creative and skilled. This is a growth industry predicted to expand 40% by 2020, yet we are confronting some of the most challenging economic circumstances of recent history. 

The Skills Academy’s third Annual Industry Conference http://www.nsa-ccskills.co.uk/annual-industry-conference-2012 will bring together professionals from the theatre and live music industries to address these challenges, and to discuss how to work better in collaboration with young people and education.  

Together, the real return on investment in skills and what impact this is having on the sector will be explored, including the issues faced, possible responses and focus on real, practical solutions and also acknowledge and celebrate the inspirational achievements of the last year, with an insight into building on these for the future.

This is no talking shop – come prepared to make decisions! Please join the crucial two days, as preparations are made to move forward into 2012-13 and the challenges and opportunities it presents.

John Hayes MP (Minister of State for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning) will be the keynote speaker, and he will be joined by some of the most influential figures from the creative and cultural sector.

If you are a key decision maker in the theatre and live music industries then this is the conference for you. Our conference will be held at Salford’s iconic venue The Lowry on Tuesday 6 and Wednesday 7 March.

For more information please contact Gill Roth on 020 7 639 3709 or email mail@gillrothcommunications.com

To book tickets go to http://nsa-ccskills.co.uk/industry-conference-2012/booking

 

Speakers:

John Hayes MP (Minister of State for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning) will be the keynote speaker, and he will be joined by some of the most influential figures from the creative and cultural sector including:

Jason Carter (Event Director, Radio 1 and Radio 1Xtra London 2012)

Julian Bird (Chief Executive, Society of London Theatre)

Paul Latham (Chief Operating Officer International, Live Nation Entertainment)

Simon Waugh (Head of Apprenticeships, National Apprenticeship Service)

Julia Fawcett (Chief Executive, The Lowry)

Jim Tough (Area Executive Director North, Arts Council)

Andrea Stark (Area Executive Director, East and South East, Arts Council)

Alan Graver (Managing Director, Skyblue)

Chris Nicholls (Operations Director, White Light)

Chris Scott (Trustee, Rock School at Harwich)

Dianne Taylor-Gearing (Pro Vice-Chancellor, Univeristy of the Creative Arts)

Martin Sim (Principal, Salford City College)

Matt Lane (Head of Thurrock and Thames Gateway, Royal Opera House)

Maxine Room (Principal, Lewisham College)

Pauline Tambling (Joint CEO, Creative & Cultural Skills)

Robin Auld (Operations Director, Purfleet Training Centre, CCSkills)

Signe Sutherland (Deputy Principal, North Hertfordshire College)

Susan Royce (Chair, Axis)

18th January 2012

d&b audiotechnik Makes a Stand on D97 at Siel, Paris

As the 2012 exhibition season gets under way in Paris d&b greets the year with a quote from France's most famous philosopher, "To enjoy life, we must touch much of it lightly". Voltaire certainly didn't have expo visitors in mind when he said it, but then most of the visitors to Siel at Grande Halle de la Villette 29th to 31st January will not have philosophy uppermost in their minds as they run their fingers ever so lightly, over the products: but d&b does.

The team from d&b France will be at the show with several new additions to the d&b catalogue. Centre stage will be the newly launched additions to the time honoured E-Series, the teenyweeny E4 and E5 loudspeakers that are some of the littlest loudspeakers in the company's product range. Alongside these will be a selection of products from the xA and xS-Series, which together comprise the company's White range of integration loudspeakers. Four elements of the White range are now being offered coloured white as standard, as well as the more traditional black; these are the 4S, 5S and 8S loudspeakers as well as the 12S subwoofer all from the xS-Series.

To discover why size really does matter and to learn more about the black and white worlds of d&b, visit stand D97. Here the d&b team will be happy to explain why Voltaire's 'light touch' means so much to them.

17th January 2012

AC-ET Showcases Next Gen Technologies to some of UK’s Hottest LDs

A.C. Entertainment Technologies (AC-ET) Ltd. recently hosted a workshop event for some of the industry’s hottest lighting designers to showcase its portfolio of next generation LED, lighting and video control technologies from leading manufacturers - including Chroma-Q, GLP, PixelRange, Vari*Lite, Jands Vista and Green Hippo.

Held in the state-of-the-art demo facilities at AC-ET’s High Wycombe HQ, the workshop was the initiative of the UK sales team’s Paul Biggerstaff and Jez Johnstone of leading UK rental company, Siyan. Siyan has long been known as a melting pot for innovative, talented LDs and supplies equipment to some of the UK’s most creative and visually interesting tours.

Seven in-demand lighting designers attended the workshop: Jamie Thompson (The Script), Johnny Barker (Scouting For Girls), Dave Cohen (Wretch 32, Simian Mobile Disco), Greg Hill (Biffy Clyro, Nero), Andres Atkinson (Eliza Doolittle, Framing Hanley, Little Boots), Louis Oliver (Jessie J, Katy B) and Chris Swain - AKA ‘Squib’ - (Two Door Cinema Club, Bombay Bicycle Club).

The LDs were split into small groups for sessions demoing the various LED, Jands Vista and Green Hippo products, guaranteeing that everyone received individual attention.

In the LED session, demoed by AC-ET’s Paul Turner, the LDs had the opportunity to get hands-on with key Chroma-Q products - for which AC-ET is the exclusive UK dealer - including the new Color Force Compact RGBA fixture and Studio Force white fixtures. Other LED lightsources showcased included PixelRange and LED moving lights from Vari*Lite and GLP.

AC-ET’s Andy Mahaffey showed some of the many innovative features of the Jands Vista lighting and media control range, running the next generation Vista v2 software. This was the first time that most of these LDs had the chance to properly explore a Vista console with the Vista v2 software. After a basic overview of the desk, they were all programming for themselves within an hour – a testament to the user-friendliness of the console. The LDs were particularly impressed by the way the simple, powerful Vista v2 software seamlessly interfaces with media servers.

Tom Etra and James Heron from Green Hippo attended to demo their latest media servers and software options, for which AC-ET is the exclusive UK and Ireland distributor.

Jez Johnstone says: "It was an overwhelmingly positive experience for all. A well planned event that was informative, interactive and offering a nice relaxed atmosphere, where everyone could learn and absorb new information."

Paul Biggerstaff concludes: "We’ve had great feedback from everyone who attended the workshop, so we will definitely be continuing the initiative with more events in 2012."

www.ac-et.com

16th January 2012

ArKaos at NAMM in Triplicate

ArKaos will be well represented at NAMM 2012 by appearances in no less than three locations: the American Audio, American DJ and Elation Lighting Booths.

American Audio staff will demonstrate the capabilities of ArKaos GrandVJ, the real time video mixer software, in a dedicated display area on the American Audio booth (#6330), using a Plasma screen, MAC computer and the new American Audio VMS2 MIDI controller. ArKaos engineers are currently working on a midi map for the VMS2, for which American DJ will make a special GrandVJ ‘skin’. Visitors to the stand will have the opportunity to try out the GrandVJ for themselves and put their questions to knowledgeable and experienced operators.

A guaranteed highlight of the GrandVJ demos will be the performances from award-winning VJ, Grant Davis, who will give will give four shows per day using GrandVJ on the American Audio booth’s 9ft wide by 7ft high LED video wall.

Grant Davis is ranked among the top visual performers worldwide. Under the name VJ Culture, Grant has provided sight and sound for audiences around the world. ??During his shows, he will be using a Dev. version of the new ArKaos GrandVJ 1.6.1 which, amongst other things, will bring support for American Audio's VMS2 MIDI controller, offering a new way to scratch your video content using the two controller’s jog wheels.

The shows are scheduled for 11am, 1pm, 3pm and 5pm, from Thursday Jan 19th through to Sunday Jan 22nd, with each demo lasting between 10-15 minutes.

"We are very excited to be representing ArKaos at NAMM 2012," says Alfred Gonzales, national sales manager of American DJ. "American DJ has grown by providing mobile entertainers with tools that help them grow as performers and stay on the cutting edge of entertainment. At the same time, we've built our reputation on being a reliable source of user-friendly products. The GrandVJ fits our philosophy like a glove. It's the bridge that is taking our customers to the world of VJing - so they can take their performance to the next level.

"The big LED video wall with the GrandVJ and our VMS2 Midi controller will rock - and it's going to open a lot of eyes to what you can do with real time HD video mixing."

An additional opportunity to see GrandVJ in action will be provided in the demo area of the American DJ booth (#5774). Here Visual Artist, Xárene Eskandar, will be demonstrating GrandVJ and answering questions.

Elation Lighting will be demonstrating MediaMaster Express using their Midicon controller and LED video wall at booth #5767. Don't miss this chance to see the ArKaos software in action and direct your questions to some of the professionals who use it!

MediaMaster Express allows anyone to exploit the possibilities of a powerful media server, combining ease of use with high performance, and at an affordable price.

"We view MediaMaster Express as a powerful and effective tool that will help Elation customers manage media content and playback quickly and easily from their DMX or MIDI controller," says Eric Loader, director of sales at Elation Professional. "Video has become a critical component of lighting applications with use on our LED video screens especially, so our customers are looking for a convenient and user-friendly media server software solution. MediaMaster Express fills this role beautifully."

Visitors to NAMM this year, simply can't – and shouldn’t - miss ArKaos! ??If you would like to arrange a business meeting with one of the ArKaos representatives, please e-mail with your request to marketing@arkaos.net and we will be delighted to see you.

In picture: GrandVJ screenshot

16th January 2012

PLASA 2012 Launches Free Registration Month

The PLASA 2012 free registration website is now live. Show organiser PLASA Events expects around 6000 visitors to take advantage of the special free registration offer over the next 48 hours, with early bookers saving £20 on the standard ticket price for this year's PLASA Show, which takes place at London's Earls Court on 9 - 12 September 2012.

All previous PLASA Show visitors have been sent the special offer via email, and free registration for new visitors is now live at www.plasashow.com

"We have been offering free registration for early bookers for the past three years and each year the number of registrations soars," comments events manager Sophie Atkinson.

"PLASA 2012 will be first show to take place after the London Olympic and Paralympic Games and it will be a celebration of our industry's contribution to this summer's events. We'll be taking a look back at some of the most spectacular achievements of the summer and presenting special educational events to highlight the best bits of London 2012. We invite everyone to come and enjoy the unique atmosphere in London this September, the home of the Olympics and the heart of the creative industries."

In addition to the best of London 2012, The PLASA Show will showcase an all-new Audio Professional Development Programme, which will include a dedicated theatre packed full of master-classes from the biggest international names in the industry, providing a high-end tour of the latest in system design, production, recording, mixing and broadcasting.

"The PLASA Show has been delivering an international platform for the worlds of lighting, audio, AV and stage technology for over 35 years. Don't miss this very special opportunity to shine a spotlight on the people, the products and, in some cases, the heroes of our industry and stars of London 2012," adds Atkinson.

www.plasashow.com

13th January 2012

7th TiLEzone London

The 7th annual TiLEzone London will be on Wednesday 21st March, and there is a 20% discount on all delegates fee for those registering and paying before the 21st January - Download Delegate Booking Form and return to Andrich International, or call +44 (0)1985 846181 to register over the 'phone.

Supported by UK Trade & Investment, the one-day seminar programme will have speakers addressing opportunities in India, Central Europe and elsewhere; operators on the challenges and opportunities in a time of recession; presentations on new projects such as Expo 2015; and new approaches for running attractions. As with all TiLE events, the calibre of the participants and the excellent networking activities will lead to new contacts & business.

See the website for more information and details of the programme as it becomes vailable.

www.tileweb.org

tile@andrich.com

12th January 2012

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