direct from: www.etnow.com Regulars Contents this month Jobs and Careers Web Directory Features Issue: 339 Dream On with grandMA3: Shakespeare becomes virtual page 24 May 2021 Celebrating its 60th anniversary next year, the State Kremlin Palace Big Hall has been equipped with the latest of DiGiCo mixing consoles. Events Light and Stage Entertainment Nederland to deliver audio equipment for Lasurus, including 20 channels of Sennheiser Digital 6000. Ayrton Diablo turns again for Dick Whittington at NT page: 14page: 18 page: 2 page: 31 pages: 28 to 31 After careful research, four Ayrton Diablo LED profiles were installed to act as followspots on the NT’s production of Dick Whittington. Hawthorn has transformed into Encore! Visit our new hire website hire.encore-emea.com w: encore-emea.com t: 01664 821 111 e: hire-uk@encoreglobal.com AC-ET Supplies New PROLIGHTS EclPanel TWC to Neg Earth Leading lighting rental production company, Neg Earth has added the new PROLIGHTS EclPanel TWC LED softlight to its rental fleet. Neg Earth pride itself on being at the forefront of lighting technology and innovation, actively monitoring the latest designs and offering clients state of the art solutions to meet their requirements, matched by a level of technical expertise which is second to none. More on page 12 Sennheiser delivers sound for Lazarus page: 22 State Kremlin Palace upgrades with DiGiCo contents this month May 2021 page no. Features page : 5 page : 7 page : 9 page : 8 TECHNICAL STANDARDS FOR PLACES OF ENTERTAINMENT Revised in July 2020 Available now from www.etbooks.co.uk 18 Sennheiser Digital 6000 delivers RF reliability and ultimate sound clarity for Lazarus The highly acclaimed Lazarus musical wowed audiences at Amsterdam’s DeLaMar Theatre before the pandemic hit. Now hopes are high that the production can return in 2021. Dutch rental company Events Light and production company Stage Entertainment Nederland to deliver state-of-the-art audio equipment for the show, which included 20 channels of Sennheiser Digital 6000 wireless microphone systems. 20 candlePower octo LED dimmer used on Dublin monument candlePower octo, the versatile new constant current/voltage LED driver from Artistic Licence, has been installed at Dublin’s Wolfe Tone National Monument, just in time to ensure a patriotic green wash for St. Patrick’s Day. 21 Version 2 chooses MDG ATMe haze for television Version 2, which specialises in lighting hire specifically for the television industry, has expanded its stock of MDG products with the addition of two ATMe haze generators. 22 Ayrton Diablo turns again for Dick Whittington at the National Theatre After careful research, four Ayrton Diablo LED profile fixtures were installed as permanent components of the basic rig to act as followspots on the NT’s production of Dick Whittington. 24 Dream On with grandMA3: Shakespeare becomes virtual Matt Peel was responsible for lighting design and show control for “Dream”. He utilised the power and DMX remote triggering capabilities – of his grandMA3 system with the new grandMA3 software. 26 Robe for Melodifestivalen 2021 For the 20th time Melodifestivalen (‘Mello’ for short) was lit by Fredrik Jonsson who utilised 200 Robe moving lights and four RoboSpot systems among other fixtures on the rig. 13 Europe’s first L-Acoustics K3 system installed at Denmark’s Eksercerhuset In 2020, local authorities decided to change the Eksercerhuset from a temporary to a permanent performing arts venue. Following a demo shoot-out, the Eksercehuset team awarded the project to L-Acoustics Danish distributor, Matrix Sales, who installed Europe’s first L-Acoustics K3 system. 14 State Kremlin Palace receives royal sound upgrade with DiGiCo Quantum7 and Quantum338 Celebrating its 60th anniversary next year, the State Kremlin Palace is Russia’s principal stage and one of the best and most prestigious theatrical and concert venues in the world. Recently, the Big Hall has been equipped with the latest generation of DiGiCo mixing consoles. 15 Robe is The Lucky One for Eesti Laul 2021 Robe moving lights and two RoboSpot systems provided a neat and creative solution for the 2021 Eesti Laul competition to select Estonia’s entry to this year’s Eurovision Song Contest. The rig included a selection of Robe fixtures. 16 Alcons Pro-Ribbons Floating in Iconic Arctic Cathedral The distinctive triangular shape of Tromsdalen Church (Ishavskatedralen, or the Arctic Cathedral) is one of the most recognised landmarks in the Norwegian city of Tromsø. But for many years it suffered from poor sound for the services But all that has now changed, thanks to the installation of an Alcons Audio LR7 pro-ribbon sound system. 17 Glitterbox and GLP bring curtain down on Comic Relief with Red Nose Rave Joining forces with Red Nose Day and kitchen disco Isolation Nation, Glitterbox recently brought the curtain down on BBC1 Comic Relief’s main event. Taking place on a custom stage at the world-famous Royal Albert Hall, the venue was lit by Sam Tozer of Vision Factory, using new generation fixtures from the GLP portfolio. from the editor direct from: www.etnow.com Entertainment Technology is published 12 times a year in conjunction with the leading industry portal www.etnow.com Editor: John Offord Technical Editor: Jackie Staines Published by: Entertainment Technology Press Ltd The Studio, High Green Great Shelford Cambridge CB22 5EG Telephone: +44 (0)1223 550805 Fax: +44 (0)1223 550806 Website: www.etnow.com email: editor@etnow.com © Entertainment Technology Press Ltd. Subscription Rates: Annual Subscription for 12 issues (UK): £27.50 Annual Subscription (overseas): £50.00 Subject to acceptance, subscription is free to UK based industry professionals. Subscribe online at: www.etnow.com/etmag/ Opinions expressed in Entertainment Technology are not necessarily those of the publishers. All rights are reserved and reproduction of any part in whatever form is prohibited without the prior permission of the publishers. etnow.com (entertainment technology news on web) is the industry portal site with news from around the world added daily under various sector headings coupled to an extensive archive. The site also features a books section where titles from Entertainment Technology Press can be ordered online via our secure Sage Pay credit card services. Issue: 339 #WeMakeEvents amplifies support for post- Brexit touring productions in open letter to Grant Shapps Industry collective #WeMakeEvents is joined by over 150 industry players to call for crucial government support for the specialist transport vehicles: carrying artists, crew and equipment involved in touring productions, which have been rendered inoperable. An essential component to music, film and TV tours, passenger transportation relies on operating freely in the EU. Under the current post-Brexit EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) hauliers are restricted, stopping the 30 companies in the sector from returning and UK artists from being able to tour. This is instead opening up opportunities for trucking companies to be set up in the EU and sacrificing specialist jobs. The industry is now writing to the Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps, urging the government to negotiate exemptions or waivers to the TCA and/or provide short term work-arounds. Without freedom of movement to work across the EU, the demise of sleeper bus and splitter van businesses will threaten the UK’s entire creative export ecosystem and position as a recognised global leader in live events. Unless the TCA is negotiated to provide an exception to the cabotage hauliers, the industry faces another competitive disadvantage against EU- based competitors. To raise awareness, over 50 musicians have co-signed the letter including Frank Turner, Two Door Cinema Club, Maximo Park, Blossoms, Ghostpoet, Public Service Broadcasting, Melanie C and Jamiroquai. Also supporting are the producers and crew involved in music, film, and TV productions that rely on the customised vehicles operated by these live events businesses. With all but no live events being able to take place in the EU for over a year, the letter follows a recent #WeMakeEvents’ survey further highlighting the complexities of Brexit: • Almost a third of respondents generated 30% or more of their revenues from Europe in 2019 • 62% see the new EU relationship as a problem for business and income • 36% are expecting increased EU competition Duncan Bell, steering committee member of #WeMakeEvents said: “The UK is geared up to hold around 85 per cent of Europe’s touring capacity in terms of the live event supply chain and without solutions to the EU Touring obstacles we face, these businesses and individuals are in jeopardy. Over one year down the line since tours were taken from under our feet, we are witnessing an imminent destruction of the UK’s position as a supplier of skills and technology to touring. Without urgent intervention, we may well see the invisible army of touring staff have to permanently sacrifice their beloved careers and choose more stable jobs.” Tarrant Anderson, the founder and a director of Vans For Bands Ltd, said: “What we need the government to recognise is the irreparable damage that will be imposed upon touring production unless counteractive support to new EU laws is made accessible. The Brexit deal means the only work companies like ours can now do in the EU is make one delivery stop, one interior move in that location, then one more movement within the EU before being forced to return to the UK. The pandemic has exacerbated this in taking away all touring work before the law was imposed. In normal circumstances Vans For Bands services over 100 tours per month and transports around 10,000 musicians and crew every year; not being able to do what we do best, even when lockdown restrictions ease, will be devastating.” Frank Turner, British singer and songwriter, said: “The restrictions which have become apparent in the wake of the Brexit deal are completely restrictive, to the point of negation, of the touring world I know and have worked in for the last two decades. If these restrictions had been in place for the last 20 years, I simply would not have been able to tour, establish my audience, and grow my career on the continent, to the point where I now (in usual times) headline arena shows and festivals across Europe. I have proudly employed many skilled UK crew members and musicians and generated revenue and tax from my business in Europe as much as any other overseas territory. Facing its removal from my touring schedule is unconscionable.” Two Door Cinema Club, Northern Irish rock band, said: “When we were starting out, cutting our teeth in clubs and broom closets around Europe we struggled to make ends meet. Everything we had, we put into pursuing our dream. We crammed into a van and off we went. After a show in Paris got critics talking, we were asked to join a European tour with a weeks’ notice and the rest is history. Now 12 years and thousands of tickets sold later, we play at European festivals every summer where every single one has talented and brilliant artists from this country. If these restrictions were in place when we were starting out, pursuing our dream, I have no doubt that we wouldn’t be where we are today. This country exports incredible stories, art and pure jubilation, we must protect that otherwise we risk never having the next Adele, Artic Monkeys or Stormzy.”May 2021 news 4 Highlite International introduces Artecta Display fixtures Highlite International BV introduces the new Display Series of indoor fixtures for professional architectural applications. Switchable between 3000K and 6000K, the dimmable LED sources offer a high CRI. This makes them highly suitable for lighting galleries, art, and other colour sensitive subjects and locations. Artecta’s latest range of indoor lighting fixtures introduces the Artecta Display Series. It is intended for highlighting objects and locations where high appeal is paramount, such as museums and galleries, lighting art and paintings. The compact fixtures offer a high CRI (>92), which helps the original colour tones to come through. They are switchable between 3000K and 6000K colour temperatures and can be dimmed manually to adjust the output intensity to the desired ambiance. The Display Series offers solutions for a gamut of applications with a range of Fresnel, profile and flood fixtures. Fresnel fixtures project a soft-edged output suitable for lighting objects at close range. Profile fixtures project an adjustable hard-edged output for projecting a delimited shape on a surface. Equipped with a wide beam angle, a flood fixture is intended to illuminate a full wall or decor. Apart from the Flood model, all models are available with a standard mounting bracket or with a 3-phase track adapter that can be mounted on most 3-phase track systems. The implementation of Display fixtures is not limited to art-related areas, it is also very much at home in public places, such as clothing stores and theme parks. Each projector offers multiple control options, and a number of models include accessories to enhance their functionality. Several models come in different output power variations and every fixture is available in black or white. Chauvet Professional Puts Fine Point on Force Power defies size. Chauvet Professional demonstrated that earlier this year with the introduction of the Maverick Force 2 Profile and Force 1 Spot. Although compact and lightweight, the two fixtures easily matched or exceeded much larger products in terms of output, brightness and performance features. Now the company has taken the power- size ratio to an even finer point with the introduction of the Maverick Force S Profile and Maverick Force S Spot. Complementing their two larger Force series stable mates, the new ultra-compact fixtures are intended for smaller scale projects that, despite their size, call for CMY colour consistency, advanced optics and other high-performance features. “We have expanded our Force series so we can continue to address the needs of an evolving market as our industry emerges from the pandemic,” said Albert Chauvet, CEO of Chauvet. “With their limited footprint, the new Force S fixtures are ideally suited for smaller projects with limited crew sizes. Yet, at the same time, they deliver outstanding, very professional-level performance in terms of output, colour rendering, focus, and effects.” Given their compact design, Maverick Force S fixtures will improve efficiencies by taking up less space in warehouses and on trucks. Once on stage, however, the 14,000 Watt spot and 14,669 Watt profile will create an unforgettably powerful impression thanks to their intense output and vividly realistic colours. Their array of features includes CTO colour mixing, a 4.5 to 41.6 degree zoom for the profile (4.1 to 43.4 degree for the spot), 16-bit dimming, a five facet prism and two gobo wheels (one rotating and one static). A variety of advanced control options are also available, including DMX, WDMX, sACN, Art-Net, pre-set synch, and RDM capability for remote accessing. Like their larger counterparts, the Maverick Force S units operate discretely making them well-suited for smaller installations that place a premium on quietness, such as the livestream studios that have emerged during the pandemic. For an industry developing new opportunities like these, the Maverick Force S Profile and Maverick Force S Spot are little fixtures that can make a big difference. Benjamin Göldner Becomes General Manager of CHAINMASTER GmbH CHAINMASTER has announced that Benjamin Göldner (pictured) will be joining it as general manager from 1 May and will be responsible for the entire operational business at the company’s site in Eilenburg. His focus will be on the co-operation with his colleagues. “TEAM – Together Everyone Achieves More – a motto that will always guide me in my new challenges,” says Göldner, looking forward to his new position at CHAINMASTER. Benjamin Göldner, who studied industrial engineering, has been part of the LIFTKET Group since October 2017. As purchasing manager of LIFTKET Hoffmann GmbH, he was already able to contribute his entrepreneurial thinking and know-how to the success of the company. His foresight across a wide range of processes and departments in the company, a pronounced affinity for sales and his strong communication skills, he will be using with great commitment in the future as general manager at CHAINMASTER to further strengthen the company in the international market. Jürgen Dlugi, CEO of LIFTKET Hoffmann GmbH, and Thomas Birke, CEO of CHAINMASTER GmbH, are very happy about Benjamin’s management support. “As an enthusiastic footballer, Benjamin Göldner is a real team player and will enrich the team of 30 employees in Eilenburg with his dynamism and bring it further forward.” Since the market launch of CHAINMASTER products in 1994, the medium-sized, Saxon-based company has developed into one of the world’s leading manufacturers of hoist technology in the event industry and offers a comprehensive range of products for all requirements from set-up operations to complex scenic movements to complete automation of performances. National and international projects are accompanied individually from planning to implementation through to user training. The worldwide network of CHAINMASTER consulting offices, commercial partners and trained service companies guarantees comprehensive after-sales service. CHAINMASTER now exports to 55 countries worldwide. The company’s references include projects such as the new Elbe Philharmonic Hall in Hamburg, the Louvre in Lens, the Stockholm Opera, the Almaty Ice Arena, the Kremlin State Palace, the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi and the Helmut List Hall in Graz.Issue: 339 news 5 It’s time to learn Creative Visual Control Avolites announces the UK release of its new online learning hub for holistic training on its Titan and Ai software platforms. The online courses are designed to teach or re- enforce the theory behind using Titan and Ai. The platform offers seven courses to work on from home, with even more in-depth, hands on training courses available at one of Avolites in-person Academy sites. The courses are designed so that users can start applying their knowledge directly to a real life example they may be tasked with in a real world environment, as well as build on their current level of proficiency. Plans are in place to release the leaning hub across other geographies later in the year, when translation of the courses is completed. In this initial phase, the hub is only accessible to UK residents. The courses allow users to pick their own path to further their knowledge, with support whenever required. The learning experience on all of the courses is intuitive with tasks, quizzes and exercises backing up each lesson. Once they are a proficient user, users can also access specialist courses covering topics such as networking, syntax, synergy, Pioneer Pro DJ bridge link integration and web API. Avolites will provide the core skills required to take total creative visual control of users’ future shows. The courses will be available to access any time over a three month period. Gordon Clarke, training manager at Avolites said: “No matter your age or experience, Avolites Academy is there to support you. To begin any educational journey, you need a strong foundation and support system, and now users can learn with us rather than being on their own. We are with you every step of the way, from learning the basics at home, to developing specialist skills that will push your career further, faster.” Paul Wong, Avolites managing director said: “Avolites is dedicated to the pursuit of creative excellence across all visual canvases, and our new online learning platform is a really important tool for all those visual designers wanting to learn how to create their best shows. I have no doubt that this resource will empower the designers of today and tomorrow, to create more impactful and immersive shows.” The Avolites Online Learning Platform is now available in the UK, with plans to then roll out the platform to other territories during the Summer of 2021, once language translation and testing has been completed. To book a space, visit https://www.avolites.com/support/training-academy/ and sign up to the first course today. Fundemental courses are £100 and includes your Editor Avokey, with all additional specialist courses £30 each. All courses can be completed over three month period, so you can work at your own pace. www.avolites.com Virtual Showlight 2021 – Registration is Open Virtual Showlight 21 is delighted to announce that registration for its unique online event is now open. Tickets can be obtained from Hubilo at www.vsl21. hubilo.com Tickets are free of charge, but delegates are encouraged to make voluntary donations via a Just Giving page when registering as all proceeds will go to support industry charities, Backup and Behind the Scenes. The event will be hosted on behalf of Showlight by MaxLive Events and takes place on 25 May 2021 between 15:00 BST and 23:00 BST. There is an exciting programme of speakers lined up for entertainment and education! These will be interspersed by a number of ‘Video Shorts’, short stand-alone papers, some of which will be forerunners to the full Showlight event that we hope will resume next year. A discussion panel of international speakers will focus on the issue of diversity in the lighting industry. And in between sessions there will be a number of breakout rooms, hosted by our sponsors, which delegates can enter to view and discuss sponsors’ products and services. Showlight will also have a networking lounge for general mixing and mingling. So come and join Showlight for a day of networking and lighting indulgence in celebration of the spirit of Showlight. Sadly, the only thing not on offer is the famous Showlight refreshment which, on this occasion, delgates will need to provide for themselves! Showlight would like to thank its generous sponsors whose donations have enabled Showlight to cover the cost of this virtual event, allowing the maximum of delegate donations to go direct to the charities. Robert Juliat is the headline sponsor, and is joined by Ayrton, ACT Lighting, Inc., Altman, ARRI, Claypaky, Copper Candle, ETC, Robe and Vectorworks. Virtual Showlight is also supported by media partner, LSi, and by LSA. The final details of VSL21 presentation papers and the discussion panel are close to completion and will be released shortly. There are some great speakers lined up… Sign up to the Showlight mailing list at www.showlight.org to be the first to hear more. Robe Launches New T2 Profile Luminaire Moving light manufacturer Robe Lighting s.r.o. has launched its new T2 Profile luminaire which offers an array of innovative technologies and the sought-after colour finesse of Robe’s hugely successful Multi-Spectral LED (MSLTM) light engines. Crafted for multiple applications: theatre, television, auditoriums, stages, concert environments, etc., the T2 Profile produces over 17,500 lumens (measured at the front lens) via its 850W MSL source, to throw beautiful high-quality light over long distances. The fixture’s exceptional quietness is perfect for scenarios where noise is crucial including classical concerts or recitals and dramas where you could still hear the proverbial pin drop with a full rig of T2s! It will also be an ideal long throw partner used in conjunction with Robe’s smaller T1 series fixtures, as both feature the MSL LED engines and therefore produce an identical multi-spectral colour mixing consistency. The T2 Profile incorporates many unique technologies like adjustable CCT from 2,700K to 8,000K, together with DataSwatch for the quick selection of 237 authentic pre-programmed colours and tones including the most frequently used whites. A high CRI of 95+ gives gorgeous skin tones, while Robe’s L3 – Low Light Linearity – and very smooth 18-bit dimming enable fabulous fades-to-black. EMSTM stabilisation keeps the fixture steady whatever is happening around it, and the CpulseTM flicker-free management is essential when working with cameras and vision systems. Other features include the RCC (Robe Colour Calibration) system which allows self-calibration of the LED engine without using any external tools. AirLOC (Less Optical Cleaning) greatly reduces the levels of airborne particles across the optical elements, boosting the overall performance and light quality of the fixture, and it also reduces the time needed for routine cleaning and maintenance. The T2 Profile has been engineered by Robe to include all the functionality that lighting designers and professionals are demanding with features like fast, easy CMY colour control, a separate +/- green hue control channel, an impressive 5°– 55° zoom, variable 1° and 5° interchangeable frosts with full zoom range capability, two gobo wheels (one static and one rotating), an animation wheel,; two rotating prisms and precise four individual plane framing shutter system. www.robe.czMay 2021 news 6 Electrosonic Group Launches New Group Company Website Electrosonic, a leading international Audiovisual and Technology Services Company, invites its customers and partners to explore its new website. The new electrosonic.com provides an engaging user experience with simplified navigation and enhanced visual design, showcasing the rich experiential technology solutions it creates. Developed with a focus on experiential technology in mind, the site includes many new elements to help customers and partners quickly and easily navigate the site to experience what’s possible. ETC debuts two new theatrical fixtures ETC launched two new theatrical fixtures as part of a two-day-long international online event. The Source Four LED Series 3 and Desire Fresnel are the perfect pairing for any theatre looking to successfully launch themselves into the modern day with incredible brightness, impressive colour mixing, and wireless DMX/RDM features. Source Four LED Series 3 is the third generation of the colour mixing LED fixture. When incandescent Source Four fixtures hit the market in 1992, they quickly became an industry favourite. As technology advanced, so did the fixtures. Now boasting an eight-colour mixing system that includes deep red LEDs, users will be amazed at the nuanced colours they can create with this fixture. “With Series 3, you finally get your swatch book back,” says Broadway lighting designer Justin Townsend. Uncover a depth and richness to fabrics, scenery and, most importantly, skin tones with the Lustr X8 array. If you’re looking for a tunable white-light, you also have the option with the Daylight HDR array. Add the newly designed XDLT lens tubes for ultimate brightness from every location in your theatre. Hang these in a box boom, on a catwalk, or from the farthest back of house position and know that with up to 13,000 lumens, their brightness will out-perform expectations time and time again. Designers will also appreciate the reduced light leak and near-zero chromatic aberration. ETC also adds a redesigned classic to its portfolio with Desire Fresnel. This Fresnel takes the best of the incandescent theatrical favourite and pairs it with the latest technology has to offer. A full eight-colour array, wireless DMX/RDM, an intuitive user interface, and NFC configuration from your mobile device using ETC’s Set Light app are only a few of the features that come standard with Desire Fresnel. Everything users love from incandescent Fresnels (smooth, beautiful light, impressive barn dooring, and adjustable zoom) has been incorporated into Desire Fresnel. ETC has reworked how the lamp and lens work together so you get more light through the entire zoom range. Source Four LED Series 3 and Desire Fresnel are the perfect pairing for any theatre. Smooth wash, ultimate brightness, and impressive colour mixing for every stage. ETC is once again setting standards that are anything but standard. www.etcconnect.com Matt Hallard joins Ayrton sales team Ayrton has to announce the appointment of Matt Hallard (pictured) as the latest member of its expanding international sales team. Hallard takes up the position of regional sales manager for the UK, Ireland, Benelux, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Croatia, Malta, Greece, Slovenia and Turkey, with effect from 1 April 2021. Hallard brings extensive experience of the lighting industry and the European market from a career that spans over 20 years. He first cut his industry teeth with an eight-year period as a production manager on cruise ships, after which Hallard returned to dry land in 2005 to launch a career as a specialist in European sales with some well-known moving light brands. “This was an exciting time in the development of moving lights and I worked with, and learned from, some incredibly talented, hard-working individuals,” says Hallard. “That diversity of experience has served me well, and now it’s time to apply all that learning to my new mission as regional sales manager for Ayrton.” Hallard is looking forward to working with the Ayrton team as the industry pushes through the global pandemic: “It’s truly a great honour to be joining the team. I have long held Ayrton in high regard as a vibrant company with excellence in execution and a clear, forward- thinking vision (much like the namesake the company was named after). I think that reflects in those who represent the Ayrton brand today. Both my new colleagues and the existing distribution network are some of the most talented people in this, our wonderful industry of light. Many of them I worked with over fifteen years ago so for me it really feels like I’m coming home. “Ours is a fast-paced industry which I care deeply about; one that has experienced an incredibly difficult period of time but now has the opportunity to refocus, adapt and improve. This is an exciting time and I’m looking forward to playing my part in taking it forward.” “We are very excited to have Matt on board,” says Ayrton’s global sales director, Michael Althaus. “The Ayrton team has worked hard to thrive during these difficult times, and we are ready to expand our team to allow us to focus even more on the opportunities out there. Energetic and knowledgeable people like Matt are part of our DNA and we are looking forward to working with him.” Renkus-Heinz Launches New Website Focused on Streamlined Support and Technical Documentation Renkus-Heinz has launched a new website focused on providing partners with increased support options, expansive product details and multiple installation examples across key verticals. Additional technical documentation, including Bim/Revit data is also available. The site is live at www. renkus-heinz.com. “Over the past few years, Renkus-Heinz has made a point of helping our partners put sound where they want it most,” said Jim Mobley, vice president of operations at Renkus-Heinz. “The redesign of the Renkus-Heinz website continues that mission by offering tools that help professional sound experts place sound with precision on an audience.” The site now offers additional documentation and data for nearly 250 different Renkus-Heinz products, including beam steerable solutions, point source loudspeakers, line arrays, floor monitors, subs, amps, software offerings and most legacy products. An improved loudspeaker recommendation form is also available, which accepts document upload and provides systems designers with EASE modelling, system drawings, floor plans, long and cross sections and other system recommendations. Renkus-Heinz is also soliciting submissions for completed projects that will be featured on the new website.Issue: 339 news 7 Astera Launches New AX2 PixelBar Wireless LED lighting specialist Astera has launched its new AX2 PixelBar product, a quality linear wash fixture with wireless control, on- board battery, individually addressable LEDs, ultra-high colour rendering, fabulous digital colour calibration and a 21-degree beam. As with all Astera products, the AX2 is fully wirelessly controlled, robustly engineered, stylish and comes complete with a range of ingenious rigging tools to provide solutions for multiple lighting applications and sectors, from concert touring to live events to TV productions and architectural and installations. The AX2 PixelBar is a perfect extension of the Astera AX range which includes LightDrops and LED PARs. It is currently available in two versions, a one-metre fixture with 16 x 10W LEDs and 50cm fixture with eight 10W LEDs. It was developed to meet demand for wall, backdrop or surface washing luminaires offering the same highly practical and quality lighting options as other Astera products and is compatible with the AX and Titan ranges. Premium optics focus the light sources and superior colour mixing, and homogeneity ensure a super-smooth even wash of light across its entire path. Utilising Astera’s acclaimed Titan LED light engine, the AX2 features a high CRI and TCLI and can produce a beautifully refined range of perfect colour temperatures from 1750 to 20000 Kelvin. The digital calibration allows it to precisely reproduce any colour or gel filter. Other neat Astera innovations include a package of smart feet, hangers, connectable endcaps and, via the integrated airline track, units can quickly be assembled in numerous ways. The quick connect system for attaching two or more units is designed to maintain a consistent pixel pitch between conjoined fixtures, and the feet can be loosened to assist in angling a row of AX2s uniformly along its entire length. Great for illuminating larger surfaces like walls and set pieces. With the press of a button on one AX2, all the fixtures in a string of connected units will conveniently auto DMX address via their integrated IR modules. They communicate with each other and each fixture knows its position in a ‘flow set’. They can be controlled via the AsteraApp and inbuilt Lumen Radio wireless CRMX, in addition to a physical 5-pin XLR socket and Powercon in / out connectors for running a wired option, making it extremely straightforward to daisy-chain AX2s. The AX2s are also super-easy to hang in a truss or to a roof beam or other structural component. In this product, Astera has addressed the needs of multiple production disciplines and scenarios to produce a product as flexible and attractive as possible, including making the fixture IP65 rated for exterior use. From classic wall-washing during events, AX2s are also ideal for being rigged in flown trusses and used for cool individual pixel effects. They can be used on stage to light up bands / artists from a footlights or side position, or for light curtains, and are versatile flicker-free light sources for TV studios, livestream set-ups and other recording and camera environments, as well as a great ‘special’ for film shoots. Astera sales director Sebastian Bückle commented: “Ten years ago, we offered a battery-powered LED bar which was one of our most popular products at the time, and some people are still using it while others have asked us for years when we will offer another wash fixture. “I am happy to announce that we now have a worthy successor, packed with the latest technology such as the Titan LED engine and auto-addressing which detects all the connected lights and assigns individual DMX addresses. The AX2 was well worth the wait! “We believe AX2 will appeal to lighting professionals working across a broad range of sectors and will also be appreciated by those currently using other Astera products in their lighting designs and schemes.” As you would expect from Astera, several cool accessories are also available for AX2. These include barndoors to further focus and control the light source as needed. One additional use is that these can act as a ‘glare shield’ so the LEDs can’t be seen, only the effect on the wall. SuperClamps and a TrackHangar facilitates hanging the fixtures and enables the attachment of safety bonds, while the FlyBar suspends up to four-metre lengths of connected AX2 PixelBars. There is a quick- release clamp for demounting; TrackPins for ‘gobo heads’ and multifunctional feet. Jump Cable is a hybrid solution to link two AX2s with power and DMX data, and Astera’s famous integrated charging flightcases are available in four and eight-way versions for combining charging with safe and secure transportation of the fixtures.May 2021 news 8 Optocore appoints RMS Proaudio for Spanish distribution Optocore has appointed RMS Proaudio as its new Spanish distributor, with effect from March 2021. Expressing his delight, Miguel Ángel Jiménez (pictured), CEO of the Seville-based company, said: “We have known Optocore particularly from the relationship with DiGiCo, which we have distributed for more than 15 years, and we consider their technology to be excellent. “For that reason we approached them, and it is an honour to now be able to provide solutions based around their advanced technology in our Spanish market. We know their products to be extremely reliable, and offer flexible audio communication solutions.” Optocore sales distribution manager, Dawid Somló, was equally upbeat: “It is gratifying that such a serious and experienced company as RMS Proaudio has entered into this co-operation with us, and an honour for us to be an important part of their high level portfolio. “With Optocore solutions in such good hands Spanish sound engineers and technical directors will soon have exposure to the true value of our advanced solutions. I am confident of significant growth in brand recognition in Spain, especially in the installation segment.” However, RMS Proaudio, which also has a 20-year-plus distribution agreement with Meyer Sound, has been facing the same COVID-enforced difficulties in the live sector as everyone else constrained by the pandemic. “For this reason, we believe that this is the perfect time to prepare and strengthen for the future. The touring and installation sectors will soon return, and our clients will need the best, and most profitable solutions. “For example, Optocore provides many advantages for installations, and products such as Festival Box are excellent for big touring companies.” He added that the partnership with DiGiCo will create further synergies, as it will with SONY DWX wireless systems. RMS Proaudio is already set up with an Optocore demo system, and the company also plans to conduct roadshows and other marketing activities. “However, for us training is the most important because it is vital that sound engineers and consultants know how to use the equipment. We will conduct rigorous training in conjunction with DiGiCo and Meyer Sound.” In closing, Mr. Jiménez believes that with Optocore on board they will be looking ahead to an exciting post-COVID future. “It will enable us to provide better solutions to our existing markets, and both the Installations and major touring companies will be eager to adopt the type of fiber- based audio communications offered by Optocore.” ROE Visual Announces New Role for Company Founder ROE Visual has announced that its founder, Jason Lu (pictured), steps up to a new position in the Unilumin group, taking on an advisory role as president for ROE Visual and member of the board. After completing the ROE Visual management team’s transition of responsibilities, Jason Lu is ready to step up to a new role within the wider Unilumin group. As president for ROE Visual and a member of the board of directors for Unilumin, Jason will keep an active part in rolling out strategic plans and product development. As Jason Lu states: “It’s with pride and confidence that I can leave the day-to-day business to a solid and experienced team and can focus on matters that are close to my heart, such as product development and strategy. I’m proud of the company’s achievements over the years of its existence and thankful to have been able to layout the basis for its current success and foundation for a bright future.” In 2006, and just out of college, Jason Lu started Radiant Opto Electronic Technology in Shenzhen, now named ROE Visual. At that time, Jason did not have a specific vision for the company, but he understood that he needed to offer something different and worked hard on achieving that in these first years. Sales director Grace Kuo divides the company history into three phases. “The first four years were about survival but also learning and gathering experience. The second phase was about internalising what was learned. 2012 would be a year of transformation.” The third phase started when in 2012, ROE Visual introduced the Magic Cube series with a complete touring frame and dolly. The Magic Cube panels were hugely successful and opened the touring market for the company. This product launch marked the start of ROE Visuals’ continued success. Listening to clients, supporting partners, and seeing opportunities is the foundation for the company’s sustainable and steady growth. The company’s R&D team has adopted Jason’s passion for pursuing excellent performance and total commitment to solution-based thinking. It has translated into offering committed service and support and the launch of more innovative products. “Working with our customers and partners over the years, I appreciate their continued trust and loyalty, establishing friendships out of business relations,” Jason continues. “It’s with great assurance and trust in our globally located teams that I retreat from daily business and leave them to conduct business, maintain our clients and partner relationships, and drive the company’s success forward.” Chen Zhu, previously COO of ROE Visual China, has now been given the role of CEO, while both Frank Montero and Roelof Bouwman continue to lead the US and EU sales offices. New Seating for Wilton’s Music Hall Audience Systems has provided new seating for the Grade II listed Wilton’s Music Hall, the only surviving Grand Music Hall in the world. Wilton’s has a fascinating history. It opened in 1859 to much excitement, attracting international audiences with Music Hall stars such as Champagne Charlie and Arthur Lloyd. In the 1880s, the building closed as a music hall and was purchased by a Wesleyan Mission. During that time, the building continued to serve the community in various extraordinary ways; 2000 people were fed there during the dockers’ strike of 1889 for instance, and in the 1930s, it provided a safe haven for East End anti-fascists in their fight against Oswald Mosley. The Methodists departed in 1950, and the building sadly fell into disrepair. A failed restoration attempt in the 1980s left the building gutted and structurally dangerous. However, with the help of Heritage Lottery funding, a restoration of the elegant balcony, the beautiful barley twist columns and the front of house was completed in 2015. Then, in 2020, a smaller but crucial project was undertaken to improve the acoustics and seating in the auditorium. Called ‘The Beautiful Word’, the project was made possible by many generous donations and was chaired by Sir David Suchet. Audience Systems’ Matrix chairs are a perfect solution for the stalls areas. Completely removable, they leave no marks on the floor and can be laid out quickly in groups. The system leaves the venue with the flexibility to remove the seating or change its layout, perfect for creating socially distanced seating configurations, for example. To create good sightlines on the balcony, custom tiering was installed by Stage and Tiers, which also re-modelled the stage extension. This was topped by some very special removable Espace chairs by Audience Systems, some of which are raised to barstool height, with footrests. The 374 new seats do not pretend to emulate the venue’s original seating. They are new seats, the venue is old. There is no artifice here. Instead they sit quietly (and comfortably) in the space, offsetting the remarkable beauty of a venue which has weathered so much, and remains magnificent for it. Wiltshire-based Audience Systems design, manufacture and install seating for performance venues worldwide.news 9 Issue: 339 Collaborative Creations provide sales team partnership for AED Audio Collaborative Creations (CC), the industry’s dedicated business ‘plug- in’ support and development service, has announced its sales team partnership with AED Audio in the UK. AED Audio’s product range is uniquely positioned as the latest in professional multi-purpose audio, built around a single cabinet type designed for use on a variety of applications. CC founder and director, West End associate sound designer, Sam Vincent (pictured), confirms: “AED Audio has come up with a brilliant product offering in the FLEX and SOLID Series speakers. Incredibly versatile, they suit a wide range of applications and the 15” front loaded SOLID15 sub has an impressive low range for a sub of its size. “It’s the accessories for the range, however, that represent the biggest step forward I have seen in a long time. As a system it’s very user friendly at every level, whether for a single install or for multi- application use, for example, in a multi-purpose or multi-format venue, or for a hire company.” As a division of the AED group, a resource trusted by production hire companies across Europe, the AED Audio product range is inspired directly by the needs of AV production hire companies with which it works so closely on an everyday basis. AED Audio’s all-in-one range has been developed with the experience and knowledge of audio professionals. Comprising the FLEX Series of full range cabinets and the SOLID Series of sub bass units, the system is designed for efficiency. Multi-purpose and scaleable, the FLEX and SOLID Series combine as a point source system, can be arranged as a compact line array flown with up to 16 boxes, and even used as a column array. Within the single full range FLEX6 cabinet of the FLEX Series, lies the versatility of the system. FLEX6 incorporates a tool-free rotatable horn. Transposable through 100 degrees on one axis and 15 degrees on the other, the FLEX6 can be positioned with ease to serve either a vertical or horizontal plane. With no need for tools, the FLEX6 horn can be simply and securely transitioned by hand. The SOLID Series features the SOLID15 15-inch powered subwoofer, which can be used stand-alone, flown or ground-stacked, and the SOLID28, a double 18-inch band pass powered subwoofer for ground stacking only, with a 3000W RMS robust amplifier module for a frequency response of 25Hz to 150Hz. The FLEX and SOLID Series are so versatile that with five optional rigging accessories, no less than 23 different loudspeaker configurations can be accessed. The all-in-one Series’ feature on- board power and processing. For connectivity the system is Dante compatible and also takes line/mic inputs, so is ready to go out-of- the-box. AED Audio is a strong nod to the very roots of the AED group. The Europe-wide AV equipment bank for lighting and sound solutions, established itself back in the 80s as a dry hire only company with its own speaker range designed using the components of several brands. Then as now, few anticipated its customer needs like AED.Next >