business news

Audinate and Bose Corporation Announce Licensing Agreement

Audinate announced that Bose Corporation has licensed Audinate's Dante patented media networking solution. The agreement will enable Bose Professional to integrate Dante into its professional audio products.

Bose Professional manufactures loudspeakers, amplifiers and sound processors for a wide variety of installations, ranging in size and complexity from retail spaces to stadiums. With a focus on enabling consultants, systems integrators and installers to create the best audio experiences for their customers, Bose Professional products are also enhanced by software for acoustic design, network control and monitoring, and hardware configuration.

Dante is built on IT standards, and is a complete media networking solution. Dante delivers low-latency, tightly synchronised, sample-accurate playback, while simplifying installation and configuration of AV networks.

“By including Dante in our products, we make it easy for our customers to meet the requirements of the installations that call for this solution to exchange high quality digital audio over virtually any network layout”, says Akira Mochimaru, general manager, Bose Professional Systems Division.

“Bose is one of the best known brands in the world,” says Lee Ellison CEO of Audinate. Ellison adds: “Bose products offer powerful professional quality and superior performance, and we value the fact that their customers are requesting Dante for their networks.”

Dante is a proven and scalable system widely deployed in thousands of installations today, ranging from hotels, transportation centres, hotels, shopping centers, public address systems, live sound reinforcement, theatres, concert halls, stadiums and athletic venues to corporate boardrooms, universities, broadcast facilities, recording facilities, houses of worship, government facilities and courtrooms.

22nd May 2013

GLP Becomes Sustaining Member of USITT

GLP German Light Products Inc. has announced that it has become a Sustaining Member of USITT, the United States Institute for Theatre Technology.

President of GLP Inc., Mark Ravenhill said: “Since we started our US operations in 2009, we have been endeavouring to support more and more of the valuable associations within our industry, and we are very proud that we can now call ourselves members of USITT.”

USITT is a not-for-profit Corporation and is operated exclusively for charitable, educational and scientific purposes.

Carl Wake, technical director of GLP Inc. added: “We are very excited about working with, and supporting the organisation and in particular its student membership in any way that we can. Having done many years of product and application training through my career, I see some exciting opportunities ahead.”

15th May 2013

LOUD and POLAR Audio Announce Ampeg and Mackie Distribution Agreement

LOUD Technologies Inc. (“LOUD”) and POLAR Audio Limited today announced a distribution agreement whereby POLAR Audio will serve as the distributor for the Ampeg and Mackie brands in the UK and Ireland, commencing 1st June 2013.

"Together, the Mackie and Ampeg brands have over 60 years of history in the UK and Ireland markets with one of the industry’s most loyal dealer and user bases,” explained Tony Williams, director of sales, EMEA. “POLAR Audio will build on this success by delivering improved local stock availability, excellent in-market sales, technical support, and elevated levels of marketing and brand awareness.”

“We are extremely excited and feel privileged to be chosen as the exclusive UK distributor of these market leading brands,“ stated John Midgley MD of POLAR Audio. “Mackie and Ampeg are at the core of the music industry and we are confident that with our local support and strong relationship to the dealer network we can gain further market share in the UK.”

POLAR Audio will show the Mackie and Ampeg brand lines at the MIRC event on 26th June and will be pleased to meet the MIA membership to discuss further details of this partnership.

15th May 2013

Christie Lites Opens New Location in Winnipeg, Manitoba

Christie Lites has announced the opening of a new stage lighting and equipment sales and rental office in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. The new location - its thirteenth - strengthens Christie Lites’ multi-office network of full service and equipment across North America.

"Winnipeg is a great city with plenty of culture and entertainment," said Christie Lites CEO Huntly Christie. "I am very pleased that Christie Lites will be able to offer local support to the many events which use stage lighting."

The new Winnipeg office is located at 25 Terracon Place, Unit 19. Although the official opening is set for May 1, Christie Lites is already fulfilling immediate lighting needs by servicing show productions in the area.

Said Ken Alexander, VP Rentals for Christie Lites: "The Winnipeg market is already welcoming the Christie Lites Rentals team and equipment to town with open arms. The new shop location will be supplied from our nationwide inventory of state-of-the-art lighting and rigging equipment; this includes the latest in Martin moving lights, TourRig double brake motors, and a large stock of grandMA and Martin consoles, to name just a few."

Along with its extensive inventory, the new office is staffed with an experienced team of industry professionals. More than a dozen of Christie Lites’ Canadian Rental Reps are already supplying clients within the Manitoba marketplace, Alexander said.

Leading the Winnipeg team are Ben Kantorovich and Gary Sywake.

Longtime Christie Lites Rentals Rep Ben Kantorovich, who is from Winnipeg and has a long history with clients there, has already started servicing the local clientele. He has already added the new Winnipeg location to his regular itinerary traveling between his home-base in Toronto and the many locations across America where his Broadway touring clients take him. "Ben’s familiarity with the Winnipeg arts and entertainment marketplace is a strong advantage to both Christie Lites and our clients," Alexander said.

29th April 2013

City Theatrical Launches New Website

City Theatrical is inviting visitors to explore its new website. The new website has been designed to provide the ultimate user-friendly experience with improved navigation and functionality throughout, allowing customers to access detailed product information and videos with the option to share information across all major social networking sites.

The new site includes extensive product information to help customers understand City Theatrical’s complete rage of products for theatrical and architectural lighting. Technical data, videos, and case studies work together to provide a detailed overview of City Theatrical’s capabilities over a wide range of sectors, including custom manufacturing.

The new website means that customers can now benefit from richer online content that is easier to navigate and share with others. All of the products have been organized into four categories: Electrical/Electronic, Beam Control, Hardware, and Software, making it easier for visitors to locate what they are looking for. The new site includes detailed specifications, manuals, videos, white papers, technical bulletins and a whole lot more.

On the City Theatrical website, visitors can also stay informed with the latest news of the company in the What’s New section.
Furthermore, the new website allows users to share products and pages that interest them with others across Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and email.
Visit the new City Theatrical website and give us your feedback by posting a comment on their Facebook Page.

www.citytheatrical.com

23rd April 2013

High End Systems Announces Partnership with EZPro International (HK) Limited

High End Systems and EZPro International (HK) Limited have announced a new partnership that will enable EZPro to serve as exclusive distributor of High End Systems’ products throughout China, Hong Kong and Taiwan. Effective immediately, this agreement enables EZPro to make HES’ products available to their extensive network of local distributors and resellers. They will also have direct access to product knowledge, support as well as local stock.

Jun Zhu, president of the EZPRO group, comments: “High End Systems is the creator and industry leader of professional lighting products and lighting control systems. It is an inspiring event that EZpro becomes the exclusive distributor for the High End Systems brand in China. We are looking forward to creating a brand new development for High End Systems in China.”

Tao Zhang, vice president of product promotion and techniques of EZPro group, comments: “With joint effort from EZpro team, along with the great support from High End Systems, we believe that High End Systems will win its deserved position in China.”

Renaat De Wilde, VP of sales for High End systems, comments: “The agreement with EZPRO is strategic for HES because of the importance of the Chinese market and our desire to work with the strongest local partner. EZPRO will offer us unrivalled benefits, dedicated focus and resources, over 500 local partners, a strong relationship with key stakeholders, a strong financial position allowing for local stock and localized marketing initiatives. We are very confident that EZPRO will strongly increase our exposure and our market share in the fastest growing geographical and economical market worldwide.”

12th April 2013

EM Acoustics goes live with new website

UK loudspeaker manufacturer EM Acoustics has announced the launch of their all new website. Featuring a brand new, modern look and feel complete with interactive links to social media such as Facebook and Twitter, the new site is designed to better reflect where EM Acoustics is today as a company.

In addition to all of the existing product information, including of course all the data on EM Acoustics’ latest launch, the HALO Compact line array system, the new site will feature increased technical detail including 2D & 3D CAD drawings, as well as data for EASE, as well as EASE Focus 2 line array prediction software for the new HALO Compact system.

An upcoming innovation will be a new Technical Resource section which will contain training videos, useful information and a FAQ section amongst other things. A complete news section, including live feeds from Twitter and Facebook is also included in the new website.

According to operations director, Mike Wheeler, the new site marks yet another significant milestone in the company’s history. "I’m delighted that we’ve brought this project to fruition," he said. "It’s been a huge amount of work, but I think the results speak for themselves. Finally we are able to provide our customers with the tool they have been asking for – thoroughly modern, interactive and constantly evolving, the new website is designed to grow as we grow. We are able to offer our customers access to more technical resources than ever before as well as the ability to contribute content. 2013 is looking as though it’s going to be a year of major milestones for us in a number of ways, and so the timing for a new website and a new image couldn’t be better."

4th April 2013

TAIT/FTSI’s Automation Control Team Now Fully Integrated, in One Central Location

The finalisation of TAIT/FTSI’s company integration combines TAIT’s expertise in the international touring market with Fisher Technical Services’ leadership in the field of permanent installation and high performance rigging.

Integration between the two companies has now been consolidated by moving the control department and key support staff from FTSI’s Las Vegas office, to augment the team in Lititz, PA, led by Kevin Taylor, president of automation.

The move means that TAIT/FTSI now boasts the industry’s premier automation control team, housed in one central location.

This will exponentially increase the design and production capabilities of the group, as well as opening new opportunities for the combined team. It enhances the company’s innovation ability and allows the group expanded resources to form a dedicated research and development team.

The integration gives TAIT/FTSI greater resource within automation and control projects and will lead to standardisation and increased product quality. With ever increasing safety requirements within the industry, standardisation across the group will enable TAIT/FTSI to meet these vigorous standards and continuously evolve.

Dana Bartholomew has moved into the role VP of west coast operations, based in Las Vegas. Dana will manage rentals, service and support, and execution of west coast projects. The east coast, Lititz, PA office will be managed by James Erwin, senior project manager.

“The addition of the talented and experienced FTSI staff to the TAIT team will vastly increase our ability to meet the company’s future needs,” says Kevin Taylor, president of automation, TAIT.

2nd April 2013

LOUD and Mega Audio Announce Ampeg and Mackie Brand Distribution Agreement

LOUD Technologies Inc. and Mega Audio GmbH have announced a distribution agreement whereby Mega Audio will serve as the distributor for the Ampeg and Mackie brands in Germany.

"We are very excited to partner with Mega Audio,” explained Tony Williams, director of sales, EMEA. “This agreement will support expanding Ampeg and Mackie sales and ensure that our level of customer service keeps pace with our growth in Germany.

Dealers will benefit from this partnership with local stock availability, as well as excellent in-market sales, technical support and stronger marketing and brand awareness.”

“We are extremely proud and thrilled to be part of the family now,” explained Burkhard Elsner, CEO of Mega Audio. “To be able to help the growth and success in Germany  of brands with such a long history of fantastic achievements in the audio industry is a great honour. The whole Mega Audio team is very excited to get involved in building up such special brands to a new level of success. We are looking forward to a long and fruitful business relationship with LOUD.”

Ampeg and Mackie will exhibit at the ProLight + Sound show in Frankfurt, Germany from 10 – 13 April in Hall 8.0 Stand L80. Mega Audio representatives will be present to engage with German dealers during the show.

2nd April 2013

Bandit Lites Launches BanditBuys.com for New and Used Gear

Bandit Lites has announced the launch of its new e-commerce website BanditBuys.com. The new site (www.banditbuys.com) will feature used and new gear for sale, including lamps, fixtures, consoles, effects and foggers.

With more and more people shopping online, Bandit is hoping to make purchasing quality lighting more accessible and easy. Special deals will also be available in addition to sales and social media discounts.

All equipment has been tested by Bandits’ trained technical staff, providing customers the same standard of service they have come to expect from its 40 years in the industry. Shipping will be available both domestically and internationally as well.

"We’re thrilled for this new endeavor," said Roth Edwards, Bandits’ director of technical operations. "We know there have been other online sources of purchasing new and used gear, and we hope to be a supplement to that going forward."

27th March 2013

L-Acoustics deploys the KSE Accreditation Program

Since the introduction of the K Systems Standard in 2008 L-Acoustics has trained over 2200 technicians in over 270 training sessions worldwide.

L-Acoustics is recognizing this accumulated field experience in the trade by providing accreditation to experienced System Technicians through the L-Acoustics K Systems Engineer (KSE) Accreditation Program. The KSE status represents recognition by the industry and peers that the individual has achieved an advanced level of understanding in implementing L-Acoustics systems.

David Brooks, application department, L-Acoustics, who was responsible for developing the KSE Accreditation Program, said: "We are thrilled to be able to acknowledge the high level of expertise in the field that L-Acoustics system technicians have accumulated. Our training program reinforces our support for the Rental Network agents and technicians in their continued effort to offer the best service to their clients. We look forward to its continued success."

To submit your candidature, pre-requisites include: a minimum of five years’ experience in the audio industry; following qualification as an ST you need to have two years or more experience on both one modular and one large format L-Acoustics line source systems; an extensive real world experience and working knowledge of the above mentioned L-Acoustics systems; demonstrated fluency in both Soundvision and LA Network Manager software.

Applicants that pass the reviewing process and qualify for the status of KSE will receive an official welcome letter accepting them into the program, an official identity card issued by L-Acoustics, a KSE jacket and publication in the online KSE directory.

Applications to the Accreditation Program will be reviewed by the L-Acoustics Application department. We invite you to fill out and submit the application form, submitting also five of your Soundvision system designs and associated LA Network Manager session files.

27th March 2013

Ayrton Chooses LumenRadio as Wireless Partner

Ayrton has announced that all new Ayrton products equipped with a wireless DMX/RDM receiver module will feature award-winning CRMX technology by LumenRadio.

After an extensive testing campaign, Ayrton selected LumenRadio because of its superior quality and reliability. The LumenRadio Coexistence technology allows smarter use of the frequencies by continuously scanning the radio spectrum and dynamically adapting its frequency-hopping pattern to the surrounding environment. This eliminates interference and maximizes performance whatever protocol is in use, whether DMX or RDM.

Ayrton and LumenRadio started working together during the European Motor Show in Brussels where they were faced with the challenge of controlling hundreds of custom LED fixtures using wireless RDM. The result was perfect and Ayrton decided to collaborate with LumenRadio for their entire product line.

The first projector to benefit from the new CRMX wireless features will be the MagicPanel 602, a modular LED luminaire equipped with continuous double rotation in PAN and TILT mode. MagicPanel 602 is also able to display media due to its integral Arkaos KlingNet protocol, or be controlled via DMX or RDM protocols through its XLR connectors.

MagicPanel 602 will receive its official launch at Prolight & Sound Frankfurt, where Ayrton will be exhibiting in Hall 9.0 Stand E70.

22nd March 2013

Audinate and Innovative Electronic Designs, LLC Announce Licensing Agreement

Audinate has announced that Innovative Electronic Designs, LLC has licensed Audinate’s Dante digital-media networking technology and will incorporate Dante into several exciting new products.

Audinate's patented Dante solution is a media networking solution suite designed to transport many channels of high-resolution, uncompressed, low-latency digital media over relatively long distances and to multiple locations, using a standard 100 Mbps or 1 Gb Ethernet network. It has become the solution of choice for a variety of professional applications because it delivers tightly synchronised, sample-accurate playback while simplifying installation and configuration of AV networks.

“IED has always been on the cutting edge of high quality networked audio solutions,” observes IED’s VP of product development Jody Green. “Audinate’s Dante technology will allow us to expand our line of announcement controller and networked amplifier offerings. IED currently has several products in development using Audinate’s Dante that will be available this year. Audinate is dedicated to the long term support and growth of Dante and with the addition of the Ultimo platform they are a natural fit for us."

“We are delighted to be collaborating with Innovative Electronic Designs. IED has a substantial market presence in communication announcement systems” stated Lee Ellison, CEO of Audinate. “Incorporating Dante into their new solutions will simplify networked audio deployments in airports, train stations, convention centres and the health care facilities.”

19th March 2013

Philips Entertainment Announces Realignment of the Americas

Philips Entertainment, representing Philips Vari-Lite, Philips Strand Lighting, Philips Selecon, and Showline, has announced the realignment and consolidation of its Americas commercial group to provide better service to their authorized dealers, sales representatives, and all lighting professionals throughout North and South America. The realignment includes changes in the management, sales, and support teams within Philips Entertainment, and will focus on continuing technology innovations while creating a streamlined customer experience.

"The realignment of the Americas commercial group truly represents an exciting time for Philips Entertainment," said Julie Smith, commercial general manager of the Americas. "We have great brands with great histories and this consolidation will better allow us to grow the resources within each brand while refocusing on technology innovations within each product line. As our current sales channels for each product line will remain unchanged, we are confident that the consolidation of all our resources will provide a more unique, supportive and valuable customer experience."

With the introduction of Julie Smith as commercial general manager of the Americas, the Philips Entertainment realignment also includes the appointments of Leonard Miller as North American sales manager, Jaime Friedstadt as Latin American sales manager, and Pete Borchetta as marketing director. As part of the consolidation, Philips Vari-Lite has announced the retirement of well-respected industry-veteran, Bob Schacherl.

Smith continued: "I do not believe there is a person in this industry that does not have respect for what Bob has accomplished during his time at Philips Vari-Lite. His leadership, experience, and dedication helped propel Vari-Lite to the top of the automated lighting industry, and his legacy here will always be held in the highest regard. The changes we have announced are the culmination of refinements that began years ago and we now stand ready to refocus our attention to the continued technology innovation of all our product lines plus the strengthening of their customer service and support systems."

Philips Entertainment offers a wide range of state-of-the-art lighting solutions for the concert, theatre, television, film, and architectural lighting markets. Consisting of industry leaders Philips Vari-Lite, Philips Strand Lighting, Philips Selecon, and the Showline family of LED luminaires, Philips Entertainment is backed by the strength of Royal Philips Electronics and is committed to the continued development of energy-efficient and high-performance lighting tools which provide everything from single dimmers and fixtures to the most sought after automated luminaires and control systems available today.

18th March 2013

Bandit Lites Launches Redesigned Website

Bandit Lites has revamped its website, www.banditlites.com, with a vibrant, dynamic new look. The website includes updated information regarding lighting tours, special events, system sales and solutions and LED technology.

Galleries showcase photos ranging from concert tours with Garth Brooks to special events such as the Presidential Debate. Additionally, an installation gallery highlights projects including Dollywood, The Hollywood Wax Museum and Pirate’s Voyage.

The site will be a one-stop site where people can not only discover Bandit Lites current news and projects, but also find manuals to Bandits’ GRN Lite fixtures, apply for employment opportunities, read about the rehearsal facilities and even shop for used gear.

"I feel like we hit the mark on this site, as we updated it to include many of the Internet’s best practices such as social media integration," said Bandits’ director of computer resources, Jim Guinn. "We will continue to update the site with new press releases, content and photos as quickly as we get them."

18th March 2013

GDS Launch Authorised ArcSystem Integrator Programme in USA

As interest in and demand for ArcSystem trends steeply upwards in North America, GDS in conjunction with exclusive US distributor ACT Lighting, has created a network of authorised dealers who have received specialist training in relation to the products. The Authorised ArcSystem Integrator Programme (AAI) is designed to ensure easier and more widespread regional access to the ArcSystem range, as well us underpinning that access with project support and advice.

In addition to its stockholding, each AAI has demonstration product as well as an in-house projects and installations team. By virtue of its specialist training, therefore, the AAI can consult, supply, install and commission the world's most advanced LED house-lighting system at a local level.

ArcSystem is a range of auditorium LED lighting fixtures that are truly dimmable from 0% to 100% using the wireless ARC Mesh protocol for control. This allows for the retro-fitting of auditoria without the need to rewire. Given its presence in such iconic and prestigious settings as the Grade 1 listed Bristol Old Vic, Britain's oldest working theatre, it is perhaps unsurprising that ArcSystem should currently be finding its way to all corners of the globe. Low energy, sustainable lighting solutions are now a worldwide pre-requisite for all auditoria and ArcSystem leads and lights the way in this respect.

In recognising the need to operate at closer quarters with end-users, GDS, through its AAI Programme has taken another meaningful step forward in developing and expanding its business in North America.

As GDS celebrates its ninth year, the award winning UK manufacturer has become a truly global company, having established an international sales and distribution network in over 40 countries. With seven market-leading brands and a pioneering approach to bespoke projects, GDS continues to innovate at the forefront of the entertainment, architectural, television and corporate markets. From LiteWare, the original battery powered wireless LED up-lighter to the multi-award winning BluesSystem working lights; from CueSystem cue lights to ArcSystem auditorium lighting, GDS continue to create innovative, flexible solutions that have this year found their way from Broadway to the West End and from Cirque De Soleil to the Olympics.

In picture: Bristol Old Vic

www.gds.uk.com

13th March 2013

Arup Integrates Artec Consultants Inc into its Global Practice

Arup and Artec haveo announced the integration of their acoustics, audio visual, and theatre consulting practices, effective immediately.

This combines two of the world's premier practices specializing in the planning, design, and engineering, of venues for performing arts, contemporary entertainment, education, conference, convention, sports, and worship.

"Our expanded team offers clients around the world unrivaled knowledge, experience, skills, and cutting-edge tools to plan and design innovative venues for the 21st century and beyond," said principal Raj Patel, Americas Arts and Culture Business Leader for Arup.

"Joining forces with Arup, enhances our collective ability to provide highly specialist skills anywhere in the world, through the resources of a large, global organization, serving projects of any scale, with the best international design thinking, delivered to clients locally from start to finish," said Tateo Nakajima, former partner at Artec and now a principal at Arup.

Arup will integrate the former Artec staff into the New York Acoustics, Audio Visual and Theatre Consulting team led by Raj Patel. Tateo, Ed Arenius, Todd Brooks, Christopher Darland, and Tom Clark join the leadership team at Arup in this move. They will work closely with Arup's regional leaders, Andrew Nicol (Australasia), Sam Tsoi (East Asia), Rachid Abu-Hassan (Europe) and Rob Harris (UK, Middle East, and Africa).

This enhanced team strengthens Arup's ability to provide clients and their projects whole life relationships - from cultural master planning, project inception and concept development, through design, construction, and post opening. Holistic service supports the owners, operators and users in delivering performances to their audiences.

6th March 2013

Wireless Solution Granted Technical Patent for W-DMX

Wireless Solution Sweden AB, manufacturer of the award-winning W-DMX wireless DMX technology, has announced that it has been granted by the Untied States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to Interlite AB (mother company and patent owner) an invention patent in regards to their new technology for wireless communicating using adaptive frequency hopping (US 8,340,157).

In accordance with the granted patent, it is possible to in a more precise way handle an adaptive wireless environment including a plurality of wireless devices competing for the available bandwidth. Accordingly, this new technology makes it possible to increase the reliability of wireless transmission and control of wireless devices for example used in relation to the entertainment, architectural, commercial, industrial, street and/or event industry.

What this patent means is that W-DMX can now protect this technology and avoid interference from all manufacturers as it can infringe on the patent.

The patented technology is already available in the new generation, G4, of wireless devices provided by Interlite. “Our new generation of wireless devices offers our users more flexibility and reliability than ever before,” said CEO Niclas Arvidsson, “This US patent is a great technical step forward and highlights the combined efforts between Interlite and Wireless Solution. Users of W-DMX can feel secure, knowing that they have the most reliable signal available, protected by U.S. patent law.”

27th February 2013

Philips Vari-Lite Announces the Vari-Lite Advantage Programme

Philips Vari-Lite has announced the new Vari-Lite Advantage programme that now makes it even easier to purchase the popular Vari-Lite Series 3000 luminaires and gobos. Open from 7th February - 30th June 2013, the Vari-Lite Advantage Programme is a rewarding opportunity to reduce costs of investment on Vari-Lite Series 3000 luminaires and gobos which are regarded as one of the most sought after product families in the entertainment lighting industry today.

“More than ever we are finding that rental companies, touring shows, permanent installations, and television productions all utilise Series 3000 fixtures on a daily basis,” said Brad Schiller, Philips Vari-Lite product marketing manager. “They are the most popular range of automated lighting products over the past ten years and that’s primarily due to their quality of light, evenness of colour mixing, and perfection of imaging. Because of this we wanted to make it even easier to get them into the hands of the many talented designers worldwide, and the Vari-Lite Advantage programme does just that giving them even more creative freedom.”

The Vari-Lite Advantage programme is effective for Vari-Lite luminaire sales orders received from 7th February - 30th June 2013, and is applicable for VL3000 Spot, VL3000 Q Spot, VL3000 Wash, VL3000 Q Wash, VL3500 Spot, VL3500 Q Spot, VL3015 Spot, and VL3515 Spot luminaires. Vari-Lite Advantage programme rewards on Series 3000 luminaires are available at the time of a qualified luminaire purchase. Additionally, the Vari-Lite Advantage programme allows customers to purchase any Series 3000 gobo associated with any of the applicable Series 3000 luminaires from the Vari-Lite gobo catalogue for a new extremely low MSRP price of only $25 USD each.

Schiller explains: “Having the ability to truly express yourself with customised gobos is often a necessity in lighting design. One of the most exciting parts of the Vari-Lite Advantage programme is that not only can someone purchase Series 3000 luminaires and receive an advantage reward, but now they can enhance their designs even further with custom gobos which tie perfectly into their idea of creative freedom.”

Those interested in taking part of the Vari-Lite Advantage programme should contact their local Philips Vari-Lite dealer or regional sales manager for complete details.

www.vari-lite.com

27th February 2013

CADAC Appoints New US Distributor

CADAC has announced the appointment of LIFT Distribution in the US to distribute its full production console range into the professional audio retail, installer and sound-hire channels.

Seattle based LIFT Distribution joins with Broadway sound specialist RF Pro in distributing CADAC in the US. RF Pro’s Tom Bensen has a long and renowned association with the company, and remains responsible for the sale of bespoke console systems into the musical theatre, and large scale sound touring and event sectors. The appointment of LIFT Distribution is the direct result of demand for the latest CADAC compact analogue and digital consoles, and the requirement to service these via a general trade distributor, addressing the wider professional audio market.

Commenting on the new appointment, CADAC international sales manager Ben Millson explains: “Good independent audio distributors in the US are hard to come by, and LIFT Distribution represented a unique opportunity in that they are owner operators, widely experienced in the audio engineering sector, and not already carrying a console brand. They are also distributors for KV2 Audio, a product I have personal experience with and I know how good it is; so there is a natural synergy with CADAC.

“With the team's extensive business and engineering background, and experience in live sound sector, they were very aware of CADAC’s heritage and reputation. We initially approached them to service a number of direct sales enquiries we had received for our new consoles. At the same time they took an S-Type, LIVE1 and CDC Four for their evaluation and were suitably impressed.“

LIFT Distribution is a relatively new venture, specialising in the distribution and installation of broadcast and live performance technology. The company was founded in September 2011 by joint MDs Steve Palermo and Dave Christenson; Palermo is founder and owner of LIFT AV, a highly successful Pacific Northwest dealer and systems design/install company. Christenson is founder of Audio Agent and 3dB Creative, a pro audio sales and marketing agency, prior to which he held senior management positions at Loud Technologies, Solid State Logic and Euphonix. LIFT’s distribution centre provides CADAC with full sales, warehousing, service and back office support across the US, and the results of the appointment are already apparent. “Sales of the LIVE1 in particular are showing an immediate growth,” continues Millson. “We also have upcoming reviews of the both the LIVE1 and CDC Four in US pro audio magazines, as well as advertising, so we are getting behind this agreement with a coordinated promotion campaign.”

LIFT's Dave Christenson commented: "The sound quality of CADAC consoles is legendary. The brand is an important part of the British large-format console legacy and continues to represent the highest quality and value in the industry. Given the initial demand we're seeing for the affordable LIVE1 Series in particular, it's clear that CADAC has successfully evolved to meet the needs of today's market. We're extremely pleased to be associated with them."

In picture: LIFT Distribution Dave Christenson, Steve Palermo, David Ellis, Justin Friesen and Jesse Mittleider.

18th February 2013

Community Makes a First Choice in the North West

Community Professional Loudspeakers has announced the appointment of First Choice Marketing as the company’s new sales representative for the Northwest territory.

Based in Seattle, Washington, the firm’s principal Tony Tudisco and office manager Sharon Jensen will represent Community in Washington, Oregon, Western Idaho, Montana and Alaska. First Choice Marketing was founded in 1990, and has been managing the Northwest territory for over 23 years.

"We’re pleased to welcome First Choice Marketing as our Northwest Representative," said Loren Robinson, Community’s Western Regional sales manager. "The Northwest has always been a strong territory for Community, and First Choice Marketing’s reputation as an established and accomplished sales team is exactly what we need to continue Community’s success in the area."

"We are extremely excited to be representing Community Loudspeakers," said First Choice’s Tony Tudisco, "Community is one of the industry’s most respected brands, with a solid track record of more than forty years of history, innovation and value," he continued. "We’re confident the resources Community and First Choice have to offer will be excellent tools for Northwest pro audio integrators and their clientele."

In picture: Tony Tudisco, First Choice Marketing

15th February 2013

LDR partners with top regional distributor VARI Internacional to Central America Accelerate Growth

LDR continues to reinforce its distribution network by appointing VARI Internacional as exclusive distributor in Mexico of the whole LDR range.

Fabiano Besio of LDR comments: "Italy and Mexico have never been so close and I am glad to have VARI to represent LDR products. We share the same passion for professional lighting and attention to our customers’ needs. Through their expertise and sales team we are committed to providing quality-products and fast service in Mexico."

VARI Internacional was founded in 1985 and is one of the leading companies in the cinema sector for Mexico and central America. To stay ahead with the sweeping changes in the cinema industry, VARI now specializes in offering a full AVL solution for the professional industry.

Ing. Hugo Patiño Cuellar, general manager at VARI said: "LDR is a great addition to the existing portfolio of solutions that we can offer to our partners and their customers. With the lighting business in constant growth, it is a natural step for VARI to forge a distribution partnership with a leader in this exciting field. With LDR brand we are now capable of offering a complete service for the theatre, TV and architectural lighting."

The new distribution partnership was announced during a well-attended open day held in Mexico City at the beginning of February in the presence of Fabiano Besio.

"The open day matched and exceeded our expectations," said Ing. Juan Fco. Alvarez Martínez , sales director of Live Sound and Lighting. "Positive comments from customers make us proud to work with LDR." Ing.Bruno Carranza Rogerio, sales manager of Live Sound and Lighting added: "We have decided to repeat this experience at the forthcoming SoundCheck Expo in México where we plan to demo LDR products to a much wider audience."

In picture: Bruno Carranza, Fabiano Besio, Hugo Patiño and Alberto Garcia.

www.ldr.it

15th February 2013

Le Mark's Printed Tape Flown in for The Rigging Box

With over 25 years of rigging industry experience, USA based The Rigging Box offer a level of service and professionalism that exceeds many others in the industry.

Looking to increase their brand awareness and streamline their packing process, The Rigging Box extensively researched local printed packing tape suppliers before turning to UK based Le Mark Group.

The Rigging Box's Selina Conrad said: "The best price I could find was anywhere from about $3.00 to almost $4.00 a roll, but with Le Mark the tape costs could be as low as $1.25 a roll. Even adding less than $0.25 a roll for shipping still made it worth the purchase.

"Using Le Mark's printed tape has saved us a lot of money. It's easy to work with, no razor needed to cut the end of the tape. The employee can break it off with his hands once he has completed the job and the end is always easy to find when returning to the same roll of packing tape.

"It was a pleasure from the beginning to our delivery date. It was so easy to send Le Mark our logo and to have our art work done. I gave a basic explanation of what I wanted and they did a terrific job on the art work, much better than I had expected, and that was with the first art proof!"

"They are a wonderful company to work with and offer superior service."

www.lemark.co.uk 

7th February 2013

GLP Adds New Office to Serve Latin American Market

German manufacturer GLP has added a new subsidiary office to its organisation in order to better serve the Latin American market. Based in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the office will be headed up by sales manager, Peter Hald (pictured).

“The Latin American market has been growing with interesting speed in the past few years,” commented Mark Ravenhill, President of GLP US Inc., continuing: “We have had plans for a Latin American operation, but needed to ensure that we had the correct structure in place to support it 100%. We have that now and can ensure that customers benefit from our high level of customer service.”

Peter Hald commented: “I’m delighted to be joining the GLP team. They really have a great product line up with leading edge technology which I can’t wait to bring to the Latin American market.” Hald has recently been working in telecommunications, but is no stranger to the industry, having previously worked at Danish manufacturer, Martin Professional for a number of years.

Speaking of the appointment, Ravenhill added: “Peter is a great addition to the company. His knowledge of the Latin American market is a huge asset, and on a personal level, it’s great to be working with him again.”

6th February 2013

PNTA Stock up with Dirty Rigger

Experts in theatre and stage equipment PNTA have become the latest company to take on the full range of Dirty Rigger gloves and accessories in the USA.

With nearly 40 years in the business, Seattle based PNTA has grown over the years to offer one of the widest selection of equipment and consumables on the west coast.

PNTA's Richard Buckley said: "We are incredibly excited to introduce the Dirty Rigger tool pouch and rigger glove range. All the team here are really impressed with the quality and materials used on the construction of the gloves and accessories, and the stitching is excellent!

They have a style of rigger glove that will suit just about any setting out in the field."

The Dirty Rigger range will be available at PNTA's online retail store and on display in their spacious new warehouse located on Andover Street, Seattle.

www.dirtyrigger.com

6th February 2013

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