equipment news

High End Systems Offers Bulk Purchase Specials

High End Systems has announced the first of a multitude of incredible promotions aimed at offering customers the best value on lighting products. These current promotions are offered through to the end of June 2012 and are available through any High End Systems dealer or representative.

The first offering is a six-pack of trackspot Bolt moving mirror luminaires. The LED trackspot Bolt provides designers with unprecedented light output, large feature set, and extremely fast movement – all in a compact fixture design. With a three-year warranty and no need to ever change the lamp, the trackspot Bolt is a very economical choice. Now when customers purchase five fixtures, the sixth is free!

The new DLV Digital Light is also available for purchase in bulk. The DLV is a compact digital light outputting 4000 lumens. Based on the same engine as the renowned DL.3 Digital Light, the DLV has the same capabilities and large content package. Now until June 29, 2012 when customers purchase four DLV fixtures they will receive a Road Hog lighting console free of charge! The Road Hog console is a full featured Wholehog console capable of controlling 2048 DMX channels.

Also available through June 29, 2012, High End Systems is offering a special reduced purchase price for select replacement stepper motors. This special is limited to quantities on hand and partial shipments must be accepted. Customers can receive this parts special directly through their High End Systems representative.

"We are very excited to provide our customer base package deals such as the trackspot Bolt Six Pack and the DLV Road Hog Bundle," said Bill Morris, CEO High End Systems. "These types of specials make it easy for customers to purchase in bulk and receive great discounts."

These specials are available only until June 29, 2012. Contact your High End Systems dealer or representative for full details.

In picture: the DLV Road Hog Bundle.

18th May 2012

coolux to release Pandoras Box Version 5.1 at Infocomm 2012

coolux will officially release its highly anticipated Pandoras Box Version 5.1 at this year’s infocomm show in Las Vegas. Following the great success of the Pandoras Box Version 5.0, the new version will consist of a great range of powerful new features, including AES 256-bit Media Encryption.

The new version 5.1 features include: new Matrix Patcher; timeline key presets; the Aeon FX Engine now supports multiple lights as well as real-time shadow projection onto 3D object layers; new media encryption technology; dynamic and 3D Warping; StreamiX flexible desktop streaming and capturing tool; ASIO audio tracks; improved Curve Editor.

coolux GmbH will also launch their official co-operation with the 4K content specialists atmosphere media at this year’s Infocomm. The management and production team of atmosphere media consists of highly experienced individuals from a variety of fields including music and film production. atmosphere media’s aim is to deliver premium quality content for creating ambient moods and innovative audiovisual experiences.

Through a close co-operation with well-known producers and talented artists, atmosphere’s music content archive can offer a wide spectrum of great bands and top productions. The music content emphasis is on pop, blues, acoustic rock, lounge, jazz, nu jazz and lassical music.

coolux will be on booth Number: N1751

In picture: the new Matrix Patcher photo: mo2 Design GmbH

14th May 2012

Mitsubishi 7000 Series LCD Projectors Now Available

Launched at ISE this year, the 7000 Series LCD projectors are designed for applications such as large meeting rooms and lecture theatres, as well as other professional uses such as rental and digital signage. Available in three resolutions, the XL7100U / XL7000U (1024 x 768 pixel XGA), WL7200U / WL7050U (1280 x 800 pixel WXGA) and UL7400U (1920x1200 pixel WUXGA), the 7000 Series projectors offer high-performance and low cost of ownership, together with a number of eco-friendly features.

Based around a long-life, inorganic liquid crystal panel, the 7000 Series offers an impressive light output of up to 6000 Lumens at 2000:1 contrast ratio. Lamp life of up to 4,000 hours and less than 0.3W power consumption in standby mode makes the 7000 Series economical to own and run.

Mitsubishi has combined a number of performance-enhancing innovations to deliver a very high quality image. A Dynamic Contrast Correction feature analyses the dynamic range of the input signal and automatically makes contrast corrections in real-time to ensure shadow and highlight details are not lost. The advanced Super Resolution image processing algorithm dynamically interpolates missing data from the source material for greatly improved clarity. Combined with Mitsubishi’s Natural Colour Matrix, the result is an image of superb sharpness, high dynamic range and natural-looking colours. .

A high-performance, ultra-low dispersion ED lens offers greater light transmission efficiency than standard glass lenses and improved optical accuracy across the entire image. The wide-area lens adjustment (lens shift) range of 7000 Series projectors, of up to 70 degrees vertically and 30 degrees horizontally, make them extremely versatile. A number of lens options are available and one-touch bayonet-mount fittings make lens changes quick and easy.

The attractively-styled enclosure, with its paint-free chassis, built-in cable management and quiet 30dB fan noise, is designed to be as unobtrusive as possible. An auto-advance air filter cartridge keeps the LCD panel free of dust and, along with the long lamp life, helps keep maintenance to a minimum. All 7000 Series projectors come with full network connectivity, and are compatible with Crestron RoomView, AMX Device Discovery and PJ Link protocols.

14th May 2012

Robe Implements LumenRadio CRMX

Robe lighting has implemented LumenRadio’s award-winning wireless CRMX (Cognitive Radio Multiplexer) wireless technology on all its current ROBIN series products, and this will now become a standard feature of all future Robe products.

In addition to the ROBIN Series, CRMX is used in Robe’s LED Series including the very popular CitySkape Xtreme fixture and the brand new CityFlex 48. It is also available as an option for several other Robe product lines and as a standard accessory for the LEDWash 1200.

Czech Republic based Robe lighting has chosen to partner with LumenRadio as the Swedish company is also a leader in its specialist field. LumenRadio is renowned for its excellent support and fast response as well as its pioneering work in the field of wireless communication solutions, which has led to development of some of the most stable wireless data products available. All this provides a fantastic synergy that fits perfectly with Robe’s product development philosophy and modus operandi.

Combining technologies from two forward thinking companies gives Robe users the opportunity to set up compatible lighting fixtures on a network or assign addresses remotely – saving time and cabling in certain environments, and greatly increasing the flexibility of any lighting system. Using less cable can also result in a cost reduction, which can be passed down the line, and means that lighting fixtures can now be rigged in more difficult-to-access places, spaces and environments.

The CRMX system is fully RDM (Remote Device Management) compatible and also supports multiple other protocols including DALI, Art-Net, Streaming ACN, ETCNet, ShowNet, Pathport and KiNet 1 & 2. It avoids interference by using innovative cognitive frequency-hopping techniques, making it extremely robust even in environments saturated with wireless traffic, and ideal for use on clear-line-of-sight distances of up to 1000 metres. There is inbuilt error correction and deterministic / synchronised 5 millisecond latency for fast and accurate delivery, together with unique 128 bit encryption - all of which help to make it super-reliable.

As Robe continues to lead the way in developing new, cutting edge and genuinely environmentally friendly products, the alignment with LumenRadio and the use of its technology is the latest in a long list of visions for the future.

In picture: the Robe ROBIN 1200 LED Wash fixture.

www.robe.cz

11th May 2012

OPTI Solar LED from Optikinetics

Optikinetics Limited has announced the launch of its first LED Projector. With light output of over 650 lumens from a 40W LED module and a high colour temperature, for truer colour projection and image clarity, the OPTI Solar LED is ideal for all gobo and effect projection applications.

The LED module has a 100,000+ hour effective life (over 300 times the life of an M33 lamp). It is almost silent in operation and is cool running. It has a high colour temperature of 4000°K for whiter light than comparable tungsten halogen projectors and offers significant energy savings with 18% of the power consumption of an OPTI Solar 250. It comes with a three-year warranty.

The OPTI Kinetics Solar LED is supplied complete with an 85mm lens and a 40 watt LED Module. The full range of Solar Accessories can be fitted into the twin gate of the OPTI Solar LED, can be combined with alternative focal length lenses and attachments to enable a vast variety of effects to be created.

Solar LED is designed and manufactured in the UK by OPTI.

9th May 2012

TSL YOKE from tarm Showlaser

tarm Showlaser of Germany´s TSL YOKE is an integrated, single-arm, moving yoke and laser-projector system that allows projecting bright, high-quality, laser effects onto virtually any surface, such as mirrors, etc.

This flexible system includes an interchangeable head system that enables users to replace the laser projector with another device - on the same yoke. With staging and event applications in mind, laser-projector movement and control is managed via DMX protocol - enabling users to integrate and control lighting equipment and laser-projectors easily from the same console. These versatile yokes can be suspended, or rigged and set up at floor level, as applications require.

8th May 2012

XTA Electronics’ DS8000 Audio Distribution System

Worcestershire UK-based manufacturer XTA Electronics announces the launch of the DS8000, a complete re-design of their famous DS800 mic/line distribution system for the broadcast and touring markets. The DS800, and all XTA products, are distributed throughout the U.S. by Group One, Ltd.

Taking on feedback received over the years about the DS800, the DS8000 has been re-modelled by one of the company’s up and coming protégés Lewis Evans. Gottelier Award winner and R&D manager Alex Cooper oversaw the project.

“Every time I work on a new mic amplifier, I learn something new and as a result people say they get even better,” says Cooper. “The DS8000 has Common Mode Rejection Ratio figures I could hardly believe – for example, a typical CMRR reading on a similar product may give 40-70 dBs whereas the DS8000 tests at a minimum of 120 dBs which is phenomenal! The reason behind this is the common mode bootstrapped input configuration, which eliminates phase errors enabling near total cancellation of common mode noise.”

The DS8000 has two new key features: an outside-broadcast split function tailored to the demands of the broadcast industry, featuring two rear switches making stereo 16 way splits easy; and a dual redundant power supply system that is a breeze to enable when two DS8000 units are paired together.

In addition, the system incorporates remote controlled 48V phantom power with lockout “safe” functions to prevent tampering. There are also all those new premium microphone pre-amps designed by Alex Cooper himself. Subtle panel lighting is provided for dark back stage environments and there is the option of adding an ADC card that provides AES3 outputs for integration into digital systems.

Together with new output transformers, this all combines to produce a package that builds on its predecessor’s reputation as a flexible, rugged and high quality distribution system.

The DS8000 is a 2U, eight input to 32 output mic/line distribution system with 16 transformer balanced isolated outputs and 16 electronically balanced outputs fitted as standard. Input transformers and the option of replacing the electronically balanced outputs with transformer outputs are available.

“The DS8000 comprises XTA’s third generation of splitters,” offers group sales and marketing director Bill Woods. “The legacy began with the DS400, and was then followed by the DS800, the latter of which has become one of the go-to products in both touring and broadcast. We are confident that the new DS8000 will quickly establish itself as a very worthy successor to the DS800. With the linked PSUs, the simple OB split facility and the other features we have introduced, we are looking forward to even higher sales over the coming months and years. I have to congratulate Alex, Lewis and the other guys in the R&D Team for giving us a great product to sell.”

All DS8000 are covered by XTA Electronics’ real world five-year warranty.

27th April 2012

Penn Elcom Launches Innovative New CaseDesigner Software

Flightcase and speaker cabinet solutions specialist Penn Elcom has developed a new ground-breaking software programme - ‘CaseDesigner’ - instigating a new fully-flexible era in the world of flightcase construction.

Penn Elcom, always at the cutting edge of this specialist industry, has developed this completely unique software to offer its distributors, dealers and their clients the best and most efficient possible design, order and build service.

The fully visual graphical interface enables Penn Elcom customers to plan and visualise potential new case designs in both 2D and 3D, and view in full 360 degree rotation. CaseDesigner enables Penn clients to generate a quote for themselves, and within literally a couple of minutes, have all the facts available to produce that case at their fingertips.

Thomas Mostert, CEO of Penn Elcom GmbH, the distribution arm of the Penn Elcom Group in Continental Europe and programmer Klaus Koppenhoefer who previously owned his own case company, are the driving forces behind CaseDesigner.

Says Mostert: "This has been developed in response to our growing business and our desire to keep at the forefront of the industry. We need to be agile and deliver information quickly and accurately to our customers. This both empowers and is also a tool that is great fun to work with!"

Simultaneous to showing the evolving design onscreen, CaseDesigner will generate a full list of components needed to build the case, including the sheet cutting sizes, etc., and a total cost. Users can either create a fully bespoke case from scratch, or select from a large library of standard pre-set cases, to which they can add dimensions, tweak, and also customise if required.

As soon as any measurement values are added to the drawing, the case can be viewed onscreen, together with accurate details of the costs, labour and time involved can be calculated – all in a matter of minutes. Clients can decide from there if they need to make modifications to fit their budget and delivery timescale.

The CGIs can be incorporated into other documents or lists at the push of a button, or can be saved for presentations.

A comprehensive list of Penn Elcom flightcase fittings and accessories (catches, handles, grills etc.) are pre-drawn and can also be added to the designs at this stage, together with some user-defined parts. The case can be specified with or without dividers or foam interiors, and other extras like custom parts and third party services can also be calculated. Case fittings can be added to the drawings with millimetre adjustment, so precise details of the required case/s can be discussed in real time with customers as their case evolves right in front of them.

The time and material calculations are meanwhile going on in the background and output so you can get everything needed for production – including all the ‘hidden’ items like rivets, dividers, foam inserts etc. which are not specifically required to design the shell of the case.

CaseDesigner regular users can create their own library of cases which can be recalled any time for the basis of a potential new case design. From these, new variants can be produced in seconds, and added to the library.

The CaseDesigner roll out will be regionally specific to ensure that all the accessories (e.g. extrusions) and measurement units are correct, and the necessary price variations will also be incorporated.

An Order module is integrated into the programme which allows the user to create an appropriate order comfortably and easily. Pressing the Send button uploads the order to the Penn web server, from where it is fetched and read into Penn’s internal ordering system. The electronic transfer of information ensures that the information remains exactly as per the order.

The first region in which Penn Elcom’s CaseDesigner is being operated in is continental Europe. The reaction to it at the recent Prolight+Sound exhibition in Frankfurt was "phenomenal" reports Mostert.

The next roll outs will be in the UK, USA, South America and Australia.

In picture: Klaus Koppenhoefer (CaseDesigner developer) and Thomas Mostert, CEO of Penn Elcom GmbH.

26th April 2012

PR Lighting Announces First Two LED Spots

PR Lighting has launched its first compact moving head LED Spot and Beam fixtures.

The LED Spot 400 comes equipped with a 16°-38° wide zoom, while the LED Beam emits an intense 6° beam. Both run extremely quietly, outputting less heat than other fixtures on the market.

Other features common to both fixtures include 50,000 hours LED life (6,800-7500K), seven dichroic colour filters (plus white); seven rotating gobos and seven fixed gobos (all easily interchangeable); DMX controllable focus; 5-100% linearly adjustable iris and macros; electronic strobe (0-20 fps); 540° (pan) and 270° (tilt), with auto position correction; and 14 channels (short mode), 18 (standard) and 22 (extended mode). The LED Spot weighs 14.5kg and the LED Beam 14.2kg.

In picture: LED Spot 400 and Beam 400

26th April 2012

High Power Diode for Laser Projectors

With the new high power laser diode PL TB450, Osram Opto Semiconductors strengthens its leading role in lasers on indium-gallium-nitride basis. Mounted in a compact TO56 package, the blue laser diode features an optical power of 1.4 Watt (W). Thus it is particularly suitable for high quality projectors in the professional field. Other applications for this high power component reach from laser systems for stage and decoration illumination to medical applications.

Professional projectors with a luminous flux of more than 1000 lumen are the main area of application for the new laser diode PL TB450. With its wavelength of 450 nanometer (nm) it produces exactly the wanted blue, and with 1.4 W (at room temperature and a current of 1.2 A) the high optical power required.

Thanks to its excellent efficiency of 27 percent (ratio of light produced to electric power consumed), the temperature of the laser will rise only slightly. Hence it boasts a long service life – depending on its use up to 10,000 hours at 40° C in continuous operation. The long lifetime of the laser diodes facilitates a maintenance-free operation of projectors at low energy consumption.

There are various approaches for the use of the laser diode in a professional projector: Usually red LEDs are combined with blue high power lasers. The green color emerges when blue lasers excite a special phosphor to emit light. Red light can also be generated this way so that the projector light source can be designed without red LED, thus turning out even smaller, if so required.

"By starting serial production of a blue high power laser diode in the 1-Watt power range we further strengthen our leading role in the field of blue lasers," emphasizes Dr. Thomas Hoefer, head of R&D for infrared products and lasers at Osram Opto Semiconductors. "When developing these diodes we were able to draw on many years of experience with other types of lasers. And we could also implement the results of publicly funded research projects."

The basic technologies for indium-gallium-nitride laser diodes had been developed in the course of the MOLAS Project, supported by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research.

25th April 2012

Midas Launches Mixtender iPad app

Midas has announced the launch of its eagerly-awaited Mixtender iPad app. Available now from the iTunes app store, Mixtender provides wireless remote control of the PR02 and PR02C digital mixing systems permitting an engineer to access fader levels and output GEQ remotely from an iPad. The app will also be available for the MIDAS PRO Series and XL8 digital systems upon the imminent release of v2.0 software.

An impressive 64 input meters and 27 output meters can be viewed simultaneously in real-time on the ‘console overview’ screen, aiding fast channel navigation. Multiple iPads can be used on a single console simultaneously, and the mix engineer has the option to ‘lock’ each iPad so that it can only access one mix. This allows each performer to control their monitor mix on their own iPad, without making changes to any other area of the console.

Mixtender also provides wireless remote control of all fader levels, including input faders, all bus contributions and masters, VCA, and uniquely, MCA fader levels, providing unprecedented mixing power from the Apple device. Remote control of the PR02’s onboard Klark Teknik DN370 graphic EQs, as well as input and output channel mutes, is also quick and easy using the iPad’s multi-touch interface.

"The iPad’s reliable multi-touch interface makes it a perfect accessory for a MIDAS console," says brand development manager Richard Ferriday. "It will add an even greater degree of functional flexibility to our range."

www.midasconsoles.com

23rd April 2012

New DMX Moving Head Video Camera from Elation

Now you can put anyone on the "big screen" at nightclubs, corporate events, weddings and concerts, with the new EVCMH Video Camera from Elation Professional. A unique compact DMX-512 moving head video camera, the EVCMH is designed to capture images of people and objects and project them onto a video wall or TV screen . . .casting them instantly into the spotlight.

Featuring DMX-512 controllable Pan/Tilt, Zoom and Focus, the EVCMH has tremendous range and can zero in on even the farthest-reaching corners in a room. Equipped with 48 high-power white LEDs (24 Warm White and 24 Cool White), it brightly illuminates objects and individuals as it shoots them. And with the ability to blend warm and cool LEDs via DMX, you can customize the shade of white to different skin tones and degrees of ambient light, ensuring that the EVCMH will always project the very best professional image.

"The EVCMH video camera adds a whole new design dimension to any venue, event or exhibit, by allowing you to instantly project the action onto a TV or video screen," said Eric Loader, director of sales for Elation Professional. "It lets you spotlight whatever you want on video -- club patrons on the dance floor, the bride and groom at a wedding, a speaker at a corporate event, or even an object in a display. This easy-to-use, affordable video camera has a ton of applications. Best of all, wherever it’s used, it adds a whole lot of fun!"

For even more creative visuals, the EVCMH can be used with media software such as Arkaos Media Master Express, Grand VJ or Madrix (not included) to produce stunning effects. "You can create limitless video content for any event," said Loader. "As video becomes increasingly prevalent and essential at clubs, venues and events of all types, the EVCMH makes it easy to stay on top of this trend."

Although the EVCMH can make anyone a video star, the camera itself keeps a low profile, thanks to its ultra-compact design. Measuring just 1.85" x 2.5" 3.2"/ 47 x 57 x 83mm, it can be mounted discreetly in any venue. At a featherweight 0.4 lbs. / 180g, it’s easy to transport, too.

Operating on 8 DMX channels, the EVCMH features a dimmer, 60° beam angle, and 5-pin XLR In and Out. Its full-range moving yoke can pan up to 540° and tilt up to 270°. A convenient LED display menu on the rear panel makes it easy to scroll through DMX settings.

Users will also appreciate that the EVCMH is economical to operate and requires very little maintenance. It consumes just 36 watts of electricity, and its long-life LEDs will run for 50,000 hours without burning out. Fan-cooled, the EVCMH features switchable voltage 100V-240V, 50/60Hz

23rd April 2012

New LED Filter Range from LEE

When using a coloured lighting filter in front of cool white LED fitting, it ends up looking completely different to expectations.

The problem is made even worse when mixing cool white LED and tungsten sources together, trying to get a colour match from the two different sources is virtually impossible.

To help fix this problem LEE Filters have launched a new range of LED filters. These new filters when used on cool white LED fittings (>6000K) have been specifically designed to give a visual colour match to existing LEE colours on Tungsten (3200K). Try to think of them as a range of colour-corrected colours as opposed to colours that are colour temperature corrected.

Ten popular LEE colours are available as LEE LED Filters.

CL104 - Cool LED Deep Amber

CL105 - Cool LED Orange

CL106 - Cool LED Primary Red

CL115 - Cool LED Peacock Blue

CL116 - Cool LED Medium Blue Green

CL117 - Cool LED Steel Blue

CL126 - Cool LED Mauve

CL139 - Cool LED Primary Green

CL147 - Cool LED Apricot

CL158 - Cool LED Deep Orange

Diagram 1 – Shows existing LEE 126 filter on Tungsten (left hand side) and Cool white LED (right hand side). The colour is totally different.

Diagram 2 – Shows existing LEE 126 on Tungsten (left hand side) and new LEE LED 126 Filter on Cool White LED (right hand side). There is now a good visual colour match.

www.leefilters.com

20th April 2012

ETC Source Four LED now available in the UK

Following the ETC Source Four LED’s hugely popular launch at ProLight + Sound in Frankfurt last month, it now moves to PLASA Focus in Leeds, UK.

Responding to customer demands for an LED spotlight, the Source Four LED brings brilliant colours, low heat and even more energy-saving efficiency to the world’s most popular theatrical fixture line.

The Source Four LED produces a sharp, clean beam of focusable light, to give extra versatility to almost all lighting projects. The luminaire will initially be available in three varieties.

Just like ETC’s Desire Lustr+ wash luminaire, the Source Four LED Lustr+ offers a complete palette of colours, thanks to the Selador x7 Color System. Source Four LED Tungsten and Daylight produce maximum brightness at the respective warm (3000K) and cool white (5600K) colour temperatures. Each offers the same projection quality beam.

ETC’s regional manager for UK and Ireland Mark White comments: “One of the first orders for the new Source Four LED has been received from Blacklight in Edinburgh for The National Theatre of Scotland, so it seems only appropriate for the fixture’s UK launch to be in the north of England.

The Source Four LED can be added into conventional rigs without fear of compromise. It is a step change from previous LED fixtures and is already being described as the future of stage lighting.

“We know that seven colours are a better choice than just three, four, five or six, and can now ‘layer’ light – that is to say, use LED fixtures in conjunction with incandescent fittings to benefit from the best of both sources.”

ETC’s product manager for the Source Four LED, Matthew Armendariz-Kerr, adds: “With the Source Four LED, we demanded that the amount of light we produce for the power used be exceptional. With this new line of fixtures we are achieving between 30 and 40 lumens per watt, depending on the model. These are compelling numbers, best in class compared to other offerings.

“We’ve spent a lot of development effort making sure the product is right and that it delivers the best possible quality. We understand that richness of colour is vital to a performance; and beyond that, we have an aesthetically appealing product. It looks, feels and focuses like a Source Four, with the added benefits of an intelligent fixture.”

www.etcconnect.com

19th April 2012

PR Lighting’s Fast Moving XLED 336 is Set for Mass Market Appeal

One of the big hits at this year’s Frankfurt Prolight+Sound exhibition was the new XLED 336 fast moving head from PR Lighting.

It stood out among a large suite of innovative LED based products on the stand of the Chinese manufacturer, where visitors praised its brightness, its speed of execution and the sleek design of the housing.

XLED 336 is a 36-LED fast moving, compact and economically priced head, with 18.15° dispersion angle. It generates its power and RGB colour mix from 36 x 3W Osram Oslon LEDs (12 red, 12 green, 12 blue). With a power consumption of just 140W it outputs close to 250W.

The spot has a beam angle of dispersion of 18.15° and lens angle of 8°. Head movement includes 540° pan and 270° tilt, with auto position correction, pan and tilt swap and invert function. It also offers 12 DMX control channels (16 channels in extended mode) plus electronic dimmer and strobe.

Other advantages include the 50,000 hours LED lamp life, its compact dimensions of 263mm x 224mm x 204mm (HWD) and a weight of just 4.20kg.

With these attributes, PR Lighting is directing the XLED 336 at the mass market.

17th April 2012

High End Systems Celebrates a Decade of Digital Lighting

This year marks a monumental milestone for High End Systems. As of February 2012, High End Systems has been selling digital lighting products for 10 years; no other company in the industry has the same level of experience and knowledge in this market segment.

The industry’s largest portfolio of digital lighting currently includes the DL.3, DL.3F, DML-1200 w/Axon, Axon Media Server, Arena View System and the all new DLV. In celebration of the decade, High End Systems is offering special promotions on all digital lighting products. Contact your High End Systems dealer or representative for full details of the digital promotions available through June 2012.

The first DMX controlled media server and Orbital Mirror Heads were sold in 2002 and the digital lighting revolution began. Back then, the Catalyst media server provided designers with the ability to control and manipulate media content from any lighting console. Prior to the release of Catalyst, video control from a lighting console was merely a dream for most designers.

Within a year after the first product was sold, the DL.1 Digital Light was released. This self contained unit was a video projector on a yoke with a direct connection to a Catalyst media server located away from the moving head. Suddenly designers were able to incorporate their own “fixture” and move away from using large video projectors with moving mirrors. But High End Systems had bigger plans for a fully integrated digital light.

2004 marked the release of the innovative DL.2 Digital Light. This unit truly defined the digital light moniker by providing designers with a single product that included a video projector and media server packaged together in a lighting fixture. With no additional connections required, the DL.2 fixtures could be installed and operated just like any other lighting fixture.

Development of the DL.2 software led to the release of the Axon Media Server in 2006. This new media server provided the playback and manipulation power of the DL.2 to be used with any type of video device. Furthermore, 2006 also saw the release of the updated Catalyst V4 Media Server.

In early 2008, High End Systems released the DL.3 Digital Light that provided higher output and new software features. In addition, every DL.3 was outfitted with a built-in camera and infrared illuminator. The purchase of High End Systems by Barco in mid 2008 added the DML-1200 Digital Light to the product line.

Since the release of the DL.3, High End Systems has continued to add software features to the digital line such as the collage generator, increased layers, digital shutters and more. In 2010 the DML-1200 was upgraded to use the Axon Media Server, and it too received a host of new features.

High End Systems continues to grow as a leader in the digital lighting market with the release of the DLV Digital Light in early 2012. This new, small unit retains most of the capabilities of the full sized DL.3, yet at a smaller size and reduced cost.

“As an innovative company, we are pleased to be the leader in digital lighting,” said Richard Belliveau, High End Systems CTO. “The ability to manipulate light without mechanical devices is very intriguing and there is much more that can be done with digital technology. Even after 10 years, we have many more ideas to implement to help designers be more creative.”

High End Systems Digital Lighting Decade promotions continue through June 2012.

17th April 2012

Christie Broadcasts Latest Visual Technologies at NAB 2012

Christie is showcasing some of its newest technologies at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) show 16 – 19 April including a High Frame Rate (HFR) 3D demonstration, an expanded portfolio of 3-chip DLP projectors that can natively project in portrait orientation and the introduction of two new 3LCD projectors. Also on the booth is a new Christie broadcast set design featuring an interactive tiled display wall.

Front and centre in the high definition Christie broadcast set design is a concave backdrop of 138 Christie MicroTiles. The 48 centre tiles feature interactive technology while two portrait-mounted 55-inch Christie FHD551-x flat panels frame the sides of this fully integrated display.

With the elimination of furniture and its shallow profile view, the set is designed to show the future of broadcast sets. In addition to the interactive component allowing on-air personalities to manipulate content and illustrate their story, the set changes from one design to another with a simple touch.

Managing and controlling the multiple display and video processing technologies for maximum viewer engagement is the Christie Spyder X20 video processor.

Christie presented the first public demonstration of HFR projection in 2011 and, for NAB 2012, it continues its technology leadership. On Monday, April 16 at 4:30 p.m. local time, in an exclusive demonstration, 3D content from award-winning director James Cameron will be screened for the media.

Using the Christie CP2220 Digital Cinema projector, Christie will show the James Cameron directed medieval feast and sword fight. This 40-minute video (showing 24, 48 and 60 frames per second comparisons of cinema content) will be held several times daily in a cinema-like experience complete with red velvet rope.

The Christie CP2220 projector offers full 2K resolution triple flash for 3D projection and built-in support for HDCP and de-interlacing of alternative content. Using the Texas Instruments 1.2" DMD allows for bigger, brighter 3D movies, and more efficient cooling which extends the life of the projector.

Part of a new series, the Christie LX501 and Christie LX601i projectors are designed for small-to-medium sized venues in higher education, corporate environments and government agencies. These XGA models are the first of a new 3LCD platform that will include wide resolution models later this year.

The Christie LX501 is a 5000 lumen XGA (1024 x 768 resolution) projector that adds another feature-rich, yet affordable solution to Christie’s 3LCD product line-up.

The professional-grade Christie LX601i XGA projector offers 6000 lumens and is suitable for similar venues in the ProAV market requiring slightly higher brightness. It also offers an intuitive LCD information display panel to make setup and maintenance easier to manage.

This versatile series includes a 20,000 hours hybrid filter; expandable, wireless connectivity and a suite of optional lenses – including repeatable lens memory recall settings – making these models perfect for multi-screen applications.

The Christie J Series, the Christie Roadie HD+35K and now the Christie M Series offer the flexibility to create displays in portrait orientation in models ranging from 5,000 to 35,000 lumens. Not all content comes in a standard 16:9 or similar format and some of today’s most captivating visual presentations require creating displays in portrait orientation.

With all of Christie’s 3-chip DLP projectors now capable of portrait mode, customers have more flexibility to showcase natural, native content display configurations – all without compromising brightness – making Christie solutions ideal for concerts, projection mapping and other large venue applications. Portrait mode also offers more vertical pixels, higher vertical resolution, and shorter throw distance capabilities using multiple projectors.

Christie is featuring its own projection mapping display including – all in portrait orientation – two Christie Roadster HD20K-J models along with a Christie Roadie HD+35K. In another portrait orientation display, four Christie HD10K-M projectors will display content on their own widescreen canvas. Both displays will demonstrate the flexibility, power and performance of Christie’s 3-chip DLP projection solutions in any orientation.

16th April 2012

PRG Launches TruColor HS Digital Light Fixture for Film/TV at NAB

Production Resource Group, L.L.C., (PRG) will launch its new TruColor HS digital light fixture at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show in Las Vegas. PRG will be exhibiting in booth C6042 at NAB, April 16th-19th.

TruColor HS from PRG is a unique colour-accurate digital soft source designed specifically to meet the strict standards of motion picture and broadcast production. With more than twice the output of a 2kW incandescent soft light, TruColor HS delivers an extended Color Rendering Index (CRI) over 95, generates a 160-degree beam spread, and uses only 400 watts of AC power.

The HS fixture utilizes a unique lighting method called Remote Phosphor Technology (RPT), which eliminates the colour-accuracy limitations inherent in LED fixtures. Instead of relying on LEDs as the source of illumination, TruColor HS' independent phosphor panels emit high-quality light when excited by the high-frequency wavelengths from blue LEDs.

"Professionals in our industry are demanding improvements in digital lighting," said Rich Pierceall, PRG’s director of digital lighting sales. "RPT allows us to hit higher quality standards in terms of color consistency and output."

PRG partnered with a leading innovator of phosphor technology to develop special high-CRI formulations that deliver 96 CRI at 3,200K and 90 CRI at 5,200K. The interchangeable polycarbonate phosphor panels allow users to achieve both daylight and tungsten with a single fixture. Additional panels are in development to provide a complete range of colour temperatures.

"In addition to delivering a significant volume of super bright, super soft light, HS is intuitive to operate and built to last," said Pierceall. TruColor HS incorporates anodized alloy construction and field-serviceable components. The fixture’s ballast includes both local and DMX control, and connects to the lamp head with a ruggedized multi-core cable up to 98 feet (30 meters) away. It’s passively cooled, flicker-free, and manufactured entirely in the U.S. Pricing for TruColor HS will be competitive with traditional and digital lighting for film and television.

13th April 2012

Soleriq E LED for Downlights with High Performance Requirements

Downlights provide high-quality background lighting in professional applications. These include shopping malls, offices, industrial buildings and high-end residential premises. The luminaires need a high luminous flux for their light to have the right effect. This is precisely what the new Soleriq series provides, the first chip-on-board LED from OSRAM Opto Semiconductors. Even at high application temperatures they create the basis for highly efficient luminaires with a luminous flux of 1500 lm to 4500 lm.

Only one Soleriq E LED is needed to give a luminaire enough light. This makes designing luminaires much easier because only one component has to be integrated instead of lots of LEDs. The individual chips are all under the conversion layer (chip-on-board), giving the impression of a homogeneous light emitting surface. This ensures a uniform colour and light appearance in the luminaire and even coupling into external light-guiding optics is very simple. The light generated can be used with much lower optical losses, which in turn makes the LED lamps and luminaires more efficient. Typical LED benefits such as high energy efficiency and long lifetime have an excellent impact in the downlights.

The Soleriq E is available in two versions, covering the entire colour spectrum from 2700 to 6500 K. Even at a temperature of 85°C, which corresponds closely to the temperature in the application, the two LEDs offer an impressive efficiency of 103 lm/W at 4000 K. At this temperature the larger Soleriq E 45 achieves a typical brightness of 4000 lm (rated current 880 mA); the smaller Soleriq E 30 produces a lumen output of 2700 lm (at 600 mA).

Good colour homogeneity is achieved by the narrow white grouping of the Soleriq E, corresponding to a range of 4-step MacAdam ellipses. For solutions that need a particularly high level of colour homogeneity, grouping based on 2-step MacAdam ellipses is also available.

Andreas Vogler, marketing manager General Illumination at OSRAM Opto Semiconductors, said: "Downlights are in widespread use in many areas such as shop, office and residential lighting but need high lumen packages between 1500 and 4500 lm to perform their task. We can achieve these high values with just one LED component. This makes it easier to couple the light into external optics and to integrate the light source in the luminaire."

13th April 2012

Optocore Develops Network Intercom for RTS

Following the strategic partnership set up last year with intercom solutions provider Clear-Com, which saw the launch of the V3R-FX-INTERCOM and X6R-FX-INTERCOM, Optocore has taken a further step towards making the Optocore system more flexible with intercom transport by developing a similar network intercom solution for RTS.

The ‘V3R-FX-INTERCOM for RTS’ and ‘X6R-FX-INTERCOM for RTS’ interfaces are a result of cooperation with the leading intercom manufacturer.

Based on Optocore’s well-known V3R-FX / X6R-FX1U series architecture the devices are equipped with standard RJ45 interfaces, which make cabling simple and cost-efficient. As a result of creating an intercom version based on these converters, the new intercom devices are also Line-In and Line-Out converters.

The V3R-FX-INTERCOM for RTS integrates seamlessly into the Optocore Optical Digital network system and intercom inputs can be routed to MADI, AES/EBU or Line outputs, with Intercom messages and control data from RTS user panels or matrix sent transparently through the optical network. Each single intercom channel can be routed to every INTERCOM device in the network via the Optocore Control software.

The V3R-FX-INTERCOM device is equipped with eight RJ45 intercom interfaces — four ports for panels and four ports for matrix. The pin out of the connectors is compatible with all RTS devices, so there is no need to use special cables or adapters — a standard straight CAT5 can be used.

The Word Clock IN and OUT enables the synchronisation of the units to an external source and is used to pass on the word clock from one unit to the next. For stand-alone applications, the devices are equipped with an internal word clock.

One V3R-FX-INTERCOM can exchange up to 1024 intercom channels from the fibre network, 64 intercom channels from the SANE network and eight intercom channels from the I/O interfaces. The V3R-FX INTERCOM units can be operated and controlled via the Optocore network with Optocore Control, without the necessity of any external data cable. For control in stand-alone applications, USB, RS232 or LAN port on the front / rear panel can be used.

The FPGA (field programmable gate array) based concept of the internal logic circuitry permits updating of the firmware ensuring a continual state-of-the-art device.

The X6R-FX-INTERCOM for RTS has similar architecture and features, but with eight ports (to Panel) and eight ports (to Matrix); one port can be used either to Panel or to Matrix — though not at the same time (for example Ports 1-4 may be connected to RTS panels and ports 5-8 to RTS Matrix).

The new V3R/X6R-FX INTERCOM for RTS will begin shipping immediately.

In picture: the new V3R/X6R-FX INTERCOM for RTS interface.

12th April 2012

Martin M2GO and M2PC - Powerful, Portable and Affordable Lighting Control

The M2GO and M2PC are compact yet highly capable lighting consoles in Martin Professional’s popular M-Series that answer the demand for a more powerful console in a smaller form.

The ideal lighting control solutions for smaller shows and venues of all types, these over-achieving little brothers to the Martin M1 lighting controller follow the easy-to-use philosophy and simplicity of Martin’s current controller platform.

Equipped with a fast, dual-core processor, the M2GO is a full console with no external computer required. It offers a professional level of features in a portable package and has been developed with cost, ergonomics, feature set, size and weight in mind. The latest generation processor ensures a fast and responsive user interface, even if hundreds of playbacks and effects are activated simultaneously.

The M2PC is the complementary control surface to Martin’s M-PC controller software. With the same layout and size as the M2GO, the M2PC delivers a professional level of features in a portable package directly from any PC.

Designed from the ground up with a single philosophy in mind – simplicity - the M2GO and M2PC are extremely easy to learn with an easy-to-navigate surface. Designed of remarkably ergonomic qualities, their compact size makes them easy to transport, even fitting into a standard suitcase. Together they set a new standard as two of the most powerful, portable and affordable lighting consoles on the market.

12th April 2012

Barco Expands Range of Super Silent three-chip DLP Projectors

Barco has added a new member to its RLM family of very silent three-chip DLP projectors. Similar to its smaller W6 and W8 cousins, the new RLM-W12 offers WUXGA resolution (1920x1200) combined with low operating cost and power consumption. Thanks to its standard 3D capabilities, low noise level and 11,500 lumens light output, the RLM-W12 is a perfect fit for conference auditoriums, lecture halls, infotainment applications and event venues. The new projector will be commercially available from May 2012 onwards.

"By adding a brighter unit to our RLM projector family, we can now cover the entire spectrum of silent projectors for fixed installations, ranging from 6,000 to 11,500 lumens light output," says Alexis Skatchkoff, product manager at Barco. "In this way, we are better able to meet customer demands for more brightness out of compact projector systems."

As the RLM-W12 comes with standard active 3D capabilities, easy play-out of 3D content is guaranteed. What's more, the RLM-W12's TLD lenses are fully compatible with Barco's range of HDX and FLM projectors. The new RLM-W12 is highly suitable for fixed installation in auditoriums and lecture halls, and, thanks to its optional ceiling mount and rigging stack, it can also be used for events.

The three-chip DLP RLM projector family generates crisp images with more stability, richer contrast and better color saturation. Thanks to its noise-reducing and power-saving design, the RLM consumes 33% less power than comparable projectors. They are also compatible with a wide range of traditional control devices as well as with the user-friendly Barco Projector Toolset software that allows you to easily control your projector, anywhere and anytime.

10th April 2012

Crestron Installs 50,000th DigitalMedia Switcher

Crestron, the digital media pioneer, announced today the installation of its 50,000th DigitalMedia switcher. The revolutionary DM® solution is the standard in commercial and residential digital media applications. Leading AV solutions provider, Whitlock installed the milestone switcher at a U.S. Army base in Newport News, Virginia.

DigitalMedia is the ground breaking technology that flawlessly manages and distributes all digital content. The market leader for more than seven years, DM was the first solution to respond to the impending analogue sunset, ensuring that high-definition audio, video and computer signals go where they’re intended, without compromising quality or impact. In a few short years, DM has become the industry standard with 50,000 switchers installed and tens of thousands of completed installations and customers to date. The success of DigitalMedia wouldn't have been possible without great partners like Whitlock.

"It’s a proud day in the history of Crestron," said Randy Klein, Crestron executive vice president. "Reaching the 50,000th installation milestone further validates DigitalMedia as the industry standard. It also recognises our dedication to engineering excellence and innovation."

The U.S. Army needed a digital solution for its training facilities across the country and called on trusted dealer, Whitlock, to provide the solution. DM was selected because it is the only proven digital solution that accepts both analogue and digital signals and meets the stringent security and reliability requirements of the U.S. Army. Whitlock’s partnership with Crestron and extensive knowledge of the DigitalMedia line has been instrumental in the integrator's growth and success. Whitlock has been able to put more than 130 employees through certified technical training programmes, and has significantly increased its technical awareness and expertise with regards to digital systems integration.

"Our partnership with Crestron was fundamental in creating the new digital standard for the U.S. Army," said Doug Hall, Whitlock CEO. "DigitalMedia provides the digital infrastructure for the U.S. Army training command, ensuring that our military is receiving the best possible training using the latest technology."

"As with any installation of this scale, a multitude of components were necessary to create a seamless solution," added Landon Lovett, Crestron director of Federal Government Markets. "DigitalMedia is the only complete end-to-end solution that features a full line of matrix switchers, transmitters and wall plates, HD-SDI and 3G-SDI, DSP input cards, and receivers with built-in power amplifiers. The native solution means that you don't have to worry about mixing and matching other components. Our products work together seamlessly."

Whitlock has worked closely with Crestron for more than 20 years. They were one of the first integrators to adopt and champion the DM product line, which addresses the challenges of the digital AV era. Whitlock installs DM in military and government facilities, as well as corporate and education facilities. The integrator has truly embraced and invested in DM, implementing hundreds of DigitalMedia systems for its clients. It is only fitting that the DM supporter marks the success of DigitalMedia with the installation of the 50,000th switcher.

The wildly popular DigitalMedia solution has been embraced by the industry and has secured a permanent place in commercial and residential markets. Crestron and Whitlock are proud of the digital experience and credibility they bring to the AV industry. Both look forward to continuing their partnership and increasing awareness of the new digital standard.

3rd April 2012

APG Introduces Ultra-compact DX8 Multipurpose Monitor Speaker

DX8 is the latest addition to the highly successful Dispersion Series of high quality, multipurpose, monitor speakers from French loudspeaker manufacturer APG. Little brother to DX15 and DX12, the DX8 is the ultra-compact, lightweight model that everyone has been waiting for.

Like the rest of the range, DX8 is a coaxial loudspeaker. The coaxial arrangement of the drivers provides a wide and perfectly coherent sound field even in nearfield applications. The choice of a "pure" coaxial configuration (no horn) and acoustic baffling with no side flanks limits distortion and diffraction. As a result the DX8 features a very high level of sonic accuracy and optimised gain before feedback for "studio monitoring" type performance.

It is exceptionally versatile, suited for a wide range of applications, from sound reinforcement for small and mid-sized venues to distributed sound for large open spaces; delay or in-fill for high-power PA systems, and more. Its compact dimensions and crystalline clarity make it ideal for applications where discretion needs to be combined with high quality sound reproduction. DX8 is particularly suitable for front-fill applications as it displays an exceedingly low profile when used horizontally.

DX8 is also a stage monitor par excellence – discreet yet extremely powerful for its reduced form factor, DX8 is ideal for theatre, TV studios, conference rooms etc. Combined with APG subwoofers, it provides a powerful compact system for sound reinforcement in small venues or theatres and performance spaces as well as for conferences, exhibitions and fashion shows.

A number of flying and mounting accessories are available as well as dedicated processors depending upon the application. Furthermore, the cleverly designed handles on the back make the enclosure exceptionally easy to handle. DX8 is a welcome addition to the DX Series and a perfect complement to any rental inventory, especially for corporate and theatre applications.

3rd April 2012

APG Releases GLL data files for EASE Focus2

French loudspeaker manufacturer APG has announced the release of GLL data files for the full range of APG speaker systems and subwoofers for use with EASE Focus 2.2. Up to now, the only system supported from APG was the Uniline line array system.

EASE Focus 2.2 is the brand new version of AFMGs 3D acoustic modeling software. It is the ideal tool to produce an accurate prediction of system performance in any given space quickly and easily.

According to product manager, Mathieu Delquignies, EASE Focus2.2 provides all the critical information required to accurately size and commission a sound system, from fixed installation to touring systems, from the smallest stereo PA to big, long throw, distributed sound systems. "EASE Focus is the most ergonomic and precise sound field simulation software on the market. It is packed with convenient and well thought-out features, so it makes perfect sense to provide the data for our other products as well as Uniline, and provide our users with a powerful new technical and commercial tool," he said.

EASE Focus2.2, along with all of the APG GLL data files, are available as free downloads from the APG website.

3rd April 2012

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