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ETC Previews New Avab Congo Control System at PLASA
At PLASA 2004, ETC gave the European lighting market a first look at its latest console development, the much-anticipated fruit of its relationship with the respected Avab brand. The new product is called Congo, and it promises to be as high energy as its name. "Congo has been designed to be the most complete theatre and moving light hybrid – without losing the feel of a classic lighting control system," according to Avab software developer Anders Ekvall.
“Congo was designed in direct response to the needs of end users,” says Avab designer Ulf Sandström. "Until recently, theatre lighting control meant mainly pre-programmed sequences of conventional lights, while concert lighting control suggested moving lights and improvisation. But practices are rapidly changing. Theatre, studio and concert lighting have programming features in common. Moving lights often dominate a rig. Lighting operators are starting to control video animation systems and matrix screens using DMX512 and Ethernet. At the end of the day we want instant compatibility with any standard lighting protocol.”
Congo is ready to handle the future, without forgetting the past. The new Avab board puts together theatrical and concert functionality. End users need basic functions for everyday work with conventional lights. At the same time, operators clamour for the full functionality of a dedicated moving light console incorporated into this theatrical console and they want it to be simple, without relying on a mouse for programming. According to Bullen Lagerbielke, three-time lighting operator and assistant lighting designer for the Eurovision Song Contest, and member of the Avab board development team: “With Congo we can operate in any traditional theatre, studio or opera environment. We can also manage hundreds of moving lights, if necessary, without getting bogged down in mouse operations and computer menus.”
Congo combines the power of Avab’s and ETC’s lighting control experience. When ETC acquired the Avab brand of lighting controls in 2002, the original Avab development team with its 20 years of experience and reputation was kept on, while adding new brainpower and experience for this project. “It’s a dream team,” says ETC Product Manager Ingo Bernert, “and it shows in the product.”
"This is an exciting time for ETC in the European market,” says ETC CEO Fred Foster. “With our broad line of products, including IES dimming technology, the Source Four Revolution and now Avab Congo, we have an incredible package to offer the market.”
22nd September 2004
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