direct from: www.etnow.com Regulars Contents this month Jobs and Careers Web Directory Features Issue: 342 Power and speed: grandMA3 convinced at the Brit Awards 2021 page 22 August 2021 Second-year students at Rose Bruford College forged ahead with the staging of their annual ‘Live Event’ project solely equipped by Neg Earth. The songwriting initiative was open to all University of Winchester students, regardless of gender. Fifteen took part using their ASP8024-HEs. Ayrton Karif-LT at Harold Pinter Theatre page: 18page: 21 page: 2 page: 31 pages: 28 to 31 Lighting designer, Simisola Majekodunmi, chose two Ayrton Karif-LT fixtures as major workhorses in her design. 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 The new generation high-brightness Barco UniSee completes Barco’s LCD video wall portfolio renewal Barco, had introduced the next generation of its successful high-brightness Barco UniSee LCD video wall. This is the last step in the full LCD video wall portfolio renewal, after the introduction of the new Barco UniSee 500, OverView KVD-5521C and OverView LVD-5521C. This new generation builds on the unique strengths of Barco UniSee and further optimizes the state-of-the-art image quality for use in a broader range of applications. More on page 8 University of Winchester Debuts Songwriting Camp page: 26 Neg Earth and Robe Help Rose Bruford Collegecontents this month August 2021 page no. Features page : 5 page : 6 page : 13 page : 12 TECHNICAL STANDARDS FOR PLACES OF ENTERTAINMENT Revised in July 2020 Available now from www.etbooks.co.uk 21 University of Winchester Debuts Songwriting Camp Highlighting Gender Imbalance Spanning two weeks, the songwriting initiative was open to all University of Winchester students, regardless of gender. Fifteen took part using their ASP8024-HE consoles. 22 Power and speed: grandMA3 convinced at the Brit Awards 2021 The Brit Awards has long been noted for its spectacular productions and the 2021 event was no exception. Al Gurdon worked alongside a talented lighting programming team comprising Alex Mildenhall looking after the show’s ‘effect’ lights using a grandMA3 full-size console . 24 Anolis Shows Nottingham Castle in New Light The UK’s landmark Nottingham Castle reopened in June. Part of the new look is a stylish Anolis exterior LED lighting scheme illuminating all four sides of the building. 25 Preparation for Phantom of the Opera reopening as Unusual Rigging completes grid works at Her Majesty’s Theatre Unusual Rigging has completed a major refurbishment of the grid at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London’s West End ahead of the much-anticipated reopening of Phantom of the Opera next month. 26 Ayrton Karif-LT celebrates J’Ouvert at London’s Harold Pinter Theatre J’Ouvert was first produced at Theatre503, before transferring to the Harold Pinter Theatre. Lighting designer, Simisola Majekodunmi, chose two Ayrton Karif-LT fixtures as major workhorses in her design. 27 Chelmsford City Theatres Upgrade with Claypaky After trialling a number of products, David Digby, operations manager chose to invest in a range of Claypaky fixtures, including Axcor Profile 400, Axcor Spot 400 and Mini Bs. 15 AC-SP and CLS Light Up the Party at Madame Tussauds London Figure lighting at Madame Tussauds is very important; the fixtures need to light a figure to show it at its best. Lighting solutions and installation specialist, A.C. Special Projects (AC-SP) was called upon to help with the lighting upgrade. 16 KV2 sets sail across the Black Sea with Alezzi Yacht Alezzi Yacht is a high-spec, 42m x 18m, 1,000 capacity catamaran dedicated to the sole purposes of pleasure and having fun. Constanta-based AV specialists, AudioVision, were asked to design, supply and install a comprehensive AV system throughout the catamaran. AudioVision selected KV2 Audio as the best solution. 17 PROLIGHTS Tick all the right boxes for the Stamford Shakespeare Company Looking to upgrade the existing house rig from 1kW Fresnels and frame scrollers, to modern LED replacements, Grant Witton, Stamford Shakespeare Company’s technical manager, chose PROLIGHTS Fresnels, which he purchased through A.C. Entertainment Technologies (AC-ET) – PROLIGHTS’ exclusive UK distributor. 18 Neg Earth and Robe Help Energise Rose Bruford College’s Live Event Project Second-year students at Rose Bruford College of Theatre and Performance thought out of the box and forged ahead with the staging of their annual ‘Live Event’ project. Neg Earth was the sole provider of the Robe equipment in the form of LEDBeam 150s, PATT2013s and two MegaPointes running on two RoboSpot systems, organised in conjunction with NEL’s Sam Ridgway. 20 Robert Juliat SpotMe for Czech Republic’s Brno City Theatre Technical manager, David Kachlíř, recently added a Robert Juliat SpotMe tracking device to the venue’s lighting inventory, thereby increasing its existing complement of Robert Juliat products. 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: 342 ABTT Launch Virtual Ideas Platform The platform has been developed for the ABTT in collaboration with Guildhall School of Music & Drama as an informal introduction service between independent creative innovators and the commercially minded developers behind the sectors’ leading brands, products and services. By its very nature, theatre is a dynamic working environment in which to invent and develop new and better ways of doing things – in special effects, costume and wardrobe, wigs, make-up and hair, scenery, stage, sound, lighting, automation, audio-visual and any other discipline which makes live performance happen. 2021 is the Virtual Ideas Platform’s inaugural and pilot year and aims to connect innovative ideas with practitioners, developers, designers and manufactures who can help realise the potential of ideas and take it on a journey to a wider audience. Anyone with an idea, of any age can submit an application via this form, before Friday 20 August. Ideas will be assessed by a panel of experts and successful applications will be uploaded to a secure access area of the Platform. Members of the Industry Supporters Group, a group of service providers and commercial companies who have particular expertise and interest in the performing arts will be able to view each uploaded idea. The best idea for the year will be awarded initial stage seed funding for developing and prototyping. In picture: Robin Townley, CEO of ABTT and Charles Haines of Guildhall School of Music & Drama. Michael T. Strickland Honoured with “Heroes of Live” at Pollstar Live Awards Those in the entertainment industry know the adage, “the show must go on,” and even in the face of virtually no tours in 2020 due to the pandemic, the 2021 Pollstar Awards pivoted to honour artists, venues and events of the decade, as well as pay tribute to individuals who “went far and above their traditional day/night jobs to help the larger live industry and our communities in crucial ways that include altruism, advocacy, diversity and inclusivity and more.” Michael T. Strickland, owner and chair of Bandit Lites, was the first “Heroes of Live” recipient of the night due to his activism on behalf of the live events industry. “I’ve spent the last 15 months split between entertainment and politics, working 18-hour days, making phone calls, on Zoom meetings, and doing television interviews,” said Strickland, who was hailed “The Congress Whisperer” in Pollstar 2021 Impact 50, which named the 50 most impactful people in Live Entertainment. “Testifying before the Senate in December allowed our voice to be heard directly.” The result of his and others work was the passage of the CARES Act, enhanced unemployment and PPP funding, Save Our Stages, and the Shuttered Venue Operator Grants. By uniting the industry’s efforts, Strickland shared live events professionals are powerful due to their strength in numbers. “Everything we have done and achieved thus far is because of the millions of people that have taken action,” he said. “You’ve sent letters, you’ve sent emails, you’ve done tweets, and on September 1, we lit 2,500 buildings nationwide. Our strength is in our numbers, and you did it. It was not me; it was you: the millions of people who stood up and spoke out over and over and over. Our voice was heard. We stood up COV-AID and helped the White House and the medical industry deliver the vaccine nationwide. Noting how the disparity in an industry comprised of 12 million people who have little to no voice in Washington, Strickland shared the next step in his activism: forming The Entertainment Association. “Our biggest job is still in front of us,” he said. “The airline and restaurant industries went to congress in battleships, and we went in a thousand canoes … We must come together as an industry and we must form the Entertainment Association so that we have a voice on the Hill, and we are never again left out of the big show.”August 2021 news 4 Optoma launch selection of immersive projection solutions promising to warp reality Optoma has announced its ‘Warping Reality’ collection of immersive projection solutions. Suitable for an array of sophisticated environments, from art installations, floor projection, stage backgrounds to sensory rooms, simulators and training facilities. Hand picked by Optoma’s team of technical specialists, the series includes a line-up of DuraCore laser professional installation projectors and ingenious accessories, all designed with the intent to bring your wildest imaginations to life. Ross Noonan, Optoma’s technical product specialist, says immersive and sensory spaces are the biggest growing vertical in projection. “Projection is the only technology which can do mapping and blending. We want to make it easier for people to decipher which products are suitable for these applications as sometimes it can be a bit daunting. There’s a huge amount of options but not all of them are suitable. By creating the immersive range, it simplifies the process needed to specify the most suitable technology for the project.” Every projector in the collection feature Optoma’s DuraCore laser technology, which combines an industry-leading 30,000 hours virtually maintenance-free lifetime of the laser light source with a dust resistant independently rated IP5X or IP6X certification. The benefits of DuraCore is a solid state lamp-less illumination that produces high brightness, 24/7 operation capability and low total cost of ownership. In addition, the laser projectors have been selected because of their variety of lens offerings, with a focus on short throw and ultra short throw options, making them ideal for small, medium and large immersive spaces. The collection includes the powerful all-in- one content playback, warping and edge blending solution, the Nano, which when using a webcam also has the capability of automatic and extensive black level and colour correction. Equipson Introduces ENTAR – a New Range of Professional Loudspeakers WORK PRO Audio, the installation and pro audio division of Spanish manufacturer Equipson, has launched a new range of two- way professional loudspeakers that are aimed at the installation and live sound markets. Known as the ENTAR Series, the name combines of the words ENTertainment and ARchitectural, reflecting their ability to deal with the demands of these very different applications. Both passive and active speakers are included, in a variety of different sizes. All models are manufactured from high density plywood and their construction and shape makes them ideally suited to light PA duties. They are also useful as stage monitors or for front, side or rear fill. “We have been selling our MINO range very successfully over many years,” says Juan Jose Vila, CSO at Equipson. “However, customer feedback indicated that an upgrade was in order. People were still very happy with the range but, after more than a decade since their launch, we felt it was time to renew the design and install better quality components. The result is ENTAR, which hits both of our targets and gives customers an attractive, up to date range of competitively prices, high performing loudspeakers.” The ENTAR Series has four two-way passive loudspeaker models offering a choice of 8”, 10”, 12” or 15” woofers. Power outputs range from 400W to 600W. The Series also includes three active models equipped with Class D amplifiers and either 10”, 12” or 15” woofers. Each of these loudspeakers has a controllable DSP that includes EQ presets, location presets (pole, monitor, bracket), selectable HPF filter, shelving EQs, limiter, and front LED mode (on, off, limiter). Active models also include a volume knob and line/mic and link/mix switches. All loudspeakers in the ENTAR Series are finished in black and have black steel grilles for a sleek, modern look. Martin Audio Promotes from Within to Fulfil R&D Director Roles Martin Audio has recently promoted from within to create two new director roles for its R&D department. Phil Anthony has been promoted to associate director of design, while Ambrose Thompson is now research director, and together they will lead the R&D department. Phil Anthony commented: “It’s a great responsibility to continue the legacy of Martin Audio products and one that I relish and look forward to. We have made great strides in recent years in the number of products we have brought to market and I’m confident that by investing in new tools, developing improved processes and pro-active communication across departments, that Ambrose and I will bring genuine customer value with our product roadmap.” Ambrose Thompson added: “I’m looking forward to helping drive a more even balance between technical, design and marketing strands of the company into all our products. On the software front, the aim continues to be removing tedious manual operations from our users’ workflows by making better tools. Equally, with Martin Audio inside the Focusrite group, there is a proactive outlook where real investment in future development success seems possible.” Dom Harter, managing director, summed up: “Between them, Phil and Ambrose have over 35 years of experience within Martin Audio, so not only is the R&D department in safe hands, it’s a recognition of their success and commitment to the company in that time. We have a truly exciting three-year roadmap ahead, covering both software and product hardware, and I couldn’t be more delighted that they will lead us to new heights in offering world class solutions for our customers.”Issue: 342 news 5 Fischer Amps and Sennheiser launch first custom in-ears with TrueResponse Technology Fischer Amps, acclaimed German manufacturer of monitoring solutions for sound engineers and artists, has teamed up with audio specialist Sennheiser to create a truly exceptional in-ear, the FA 500 Custom. These in-ear monitors combine meticulously handcrafted custom ear moulds by Fischer Amps with the transducer of Sennheiser’s top-of-the-range IE 500 PRO. Featuring Sennheiser’s TrueResponse technology, the in-ears open up a completely natural, clear and spacious sound stage, enabling musicians and engineers to fully focus and critically monitor their sound. The FA 500 Custom is exclusively distributed via Fischer Amps, and is now available in EMEA. Jochen Fischer, founder and owner of Fischer Amps, describes what makes the FA 500 Custom so special: “At the heart of each precisely crafted ear mould sits a truly incredible dynamic wideband transducer, which allows you to precisely monitor the entire audio frequency range with a THD of as low as under 0.08%. Having just one transducer does away with the cross-over effects and phase differences known from balanced-armature types that operate with multiple drivers.” He adds: “Custom ear moulds are probably the single best investment that you can make to improve your performance. If you are able to hear precisely, you know exactly where to tweak your sound.” The FA 500 Custom deliver a particularly wide and deep sound stage that allows musicians to easily localise themselves in the mix. It is fitted with a detachable cable with a reinforced ear hook and break-proof inner cable duct: The cable’s sturdy anti-kink sleeve sits directly on the ear mould, providing a long-lasting solution for the rigours of stage use. The clear, twisted-pair cable provides optimised resistance to structure-borne noise. TrueResponse relies on a single, high-performance driver to reproduce monitor sound. Other in-ears in the same price range work on the balanced armature principle, which requires multiple drivers to reproduce the frequency range. This may lead to cross-over effects and phase differences between the individual drivers. The sound will not be as clear and accurate as with a high-performance dynamic transducer. A further benefit of TrueResponse: With the sound being so precise and detailed, the acoustical stress for the wearer is reduced. Users will find that they can set their monitors to a lower level than usual, actively contributing to protecting their hearing. Even so, the sound still has punch, even in the loudest of surroundings. The FA 500 Custom features a frequency response of 6 to 20,00 Hz; if needed, it can take sound pressure levels of up to 126dB. THD is ultra-low at under 0.08% (1kHz, 94dB). Noise attenuation is around 26dB. Further specifications: an impedance of 16 Ohms, magnetised field strength of 2mT and an operating temperature range of -5°C to +50°C. Version 5.0 Firmware Brings New Features, Control and Compatibility to RIVAGE PM Digital Mixing Systems Yamaha has released the latest firmware for its RIVAGE PM series digital mixing systems, Version 5.0, which includes significant new features, functionality and a brand new Rupert Neve Designs (RND) master buss processor plug-in. RIVAGE PM digital mixing systems are continually improved with regular firmware updates, providing mix engineers with the highest quality features and intuitive controls. Version 5.0 is a major, free update, which includes a number of new features to deliver the industry’s best, most flexible and sonically pleasing mixing experience. The Portico II Master Buss Processor (P2MB) is a Virtual Circuit Modelling (VCM) recreation of the RND Master Buss Processor, delivering the ultimate in dynamics, tone and stereo field control for the stereo master buss. Based around the high voltage, discrete, class A signal paths made famous in the RND 5088 mixer, the P2MB redefines the boundaries of traditional two channel compression and limiting. Though originally developed for mastering applications, the MBP quickly became a favourite of mix, tracking, front of house and live streaming engineers. “When we first launched the Portico II Master Bus Processor, we expected it to be used primarily for mastering and studio mix applications. Rupert and the entire team were pleasantly surprised when it became a standard for FoH, with hundreds of tours trusting it as the final piece in the signal chain,” says Josh Thomas, General Manager and Co-Founder at RND. “With its VCM technology, Yamaha has come up with an extremely faithful digital replica of the MBP, one of the most complex analogue processors we produce. We look forward to hearing the benefits of this new emulation at concerts in the coming months.” RIVAGE PM Version 5.0 firmware also provides additional flexibility for mix engineers with several new features. These include: Monitoring and operation of wireless receiver systems from Sennheiser, Shure, and Sony. Monitoring and operation of NEXO and Yamaha PC-D/DI series power amplifiers, as well as Yamaha DZR series loudspeakers. Direct control, naming and colour selection for Steinberg Nuendo Live recording software. A new, enhanced Global Paste workflow, which is faster and more intuitive to use during rehearsals or performance, without having to interrupt the flow of mixing live. Following the announcement of Yamaha’s new, proprietary AFC Image, which gives users full control over immersive imaging in a given space, the RIVAGE PM Version 5.0 firmware brings remote control to AFC Image. Object-based 3D panning and other features help to create streamlined, efficient workflows to deliver innovative, immersive audio experiences in the live environment. Finally, the updated firmware adds full compatibility with the Open Sound Control (OSC) network control protocol, which allows remote control of a range of parameters, including fader levels and mutes, pan, mix and matrix sends, delay times and Scene Memory recall. It’s ideal for use with theatre and broadcast automation systems and software, such as Figure 53’s QLab. Alternatively, users can create custom control panels with a variety of apps and touch-screen devices. “RIVAGE PM firmware Version 5.0 includes many user-requested features. We are confident that everyone from existing customers and RIVAGE PM users involved in live streaming and other new forms of entertainment, to those people considering investing in the series will find this significant update beneficial,” says Chihaya ‘Chick’ Hirai, general manager of Yamaha’s PA marketing and sales department. “We are very pleased to continue our successful collaboration with RND, which has been instrumental in the sound of our digital mixing systems since 2012. Plug-ins for SILK processing, EQ, compression and more add appealing colour to the input stage of RIVAGE PM systems and the P2MB plug-in is the culmination of our first foray into the output stage with RND. It represents a huge step forward in our relationship and we are very happy to help further the legacy of Rupert Neve, RND founder and pro audio legend, and his limitless passion for sound. “We will continue our ongoing efforts to listen to our customers and give them what they need for the best and most efficient mixing experience.” RIVAGE PM Version 5.0 is a free firmware update for RIVAGE PM owners. It can be downloaded from https://uk.yamaha.com/en/products/ proaudio/mixers/rivage_pm/downloads.html#product-tabsAugust 2021 news 6 FUSION by GLP announces weatherproof FUSION Stick FS16 Z with new Halo-Diffuser ring Lines of light are a popular and versatile design element for stage and TV shows. However, most of the solutions available do not meet modern design and camera requirements. With the FUSION Stick FS16 Z, FUSION by GLP is now introducing a contemporary LED stick in a weatherproof (IP65) design. These can not only be connected to produce absolutely seamless lines, in the tried and tested GLP manner, but thanks to innovative halo diffuser rings, placed in front of the individual light sources, develop a new optical effect. The FS16 Z is based on the proven FUSION Stick FS20 with identical dimensions, so that all FS20 accessories are also compatible with the FS16 Z. The FUSION Stick FS16 Z is populated with 16 x 20W RGBW LEDs. The motorised zoom ranges from 8 ° to 40 °. The one metre long sticks are only 23.6cm high, 9cm deep, and, despite the weatherproof design in the high-quality die-cast aluminium housing, weigh only 13kg. Its innovative halo diffuser ring ensures the FS16 Z will create a real impact in every application without exception, but it is particularly relevant to the TV and studio markets. Thanks to the ring surrounding the front lens, the visibility of the pixels in the camera has been significantly improved. The pixels are clearly visible even from very acute camera angles, whereas the lens is retracted far back into the housing in a conventional design, due to the zoom mechanism. The fanless design ensures extremely quiet operation, which also makes the new LED stick ideal for noise-sensitive environments such as theatres or TV studios. Various installation options ensure even greater flexibility and creative experimentation. The individual FS16 Z LED sticks can be connected to one another without difficulty, so that both vertically hanging, and ground-standing installations can be implemented with minimal rigging effort. Two different dimmer curves and four control modes up to a maximum of 79 DMX channels are available. Meanwhile, the built-in FX engine makes it easy to create impressive, dynamic looks. “The FUSION Stick FS16 Z is yet another GLP development that is a direct response to immediate market demand,” said GLP managing director Udo Künzler. “During countless conversations with lighting designers, we kept hearing that there was still room for improvement in the area of LED sticks, especially for applications in front of the camera. Although we already had a weatherproof LED stick in the FUSION Stick FS20, which could also be seamlessly connected with the same pixel spacing, the effect in the camera image was not yet ideal for many designers and lighting cameramen. “If the camera is looking directly into the stick, you can’t turn up the brightness too much, otherwise the devices can easily outshine them. On the other hand, from an oblique camera perspective, most LED sticks appear as if they were not switched on at all. “This problem has now been resolved with the FUSION Stick FS16 Z. Designers and DoPs can now use LED sticks in TV and studio applications in an even better, more creative and versatile manner. But even away from the camera, the FS16 Z, with its halo ring, is guaranteed to be sensational.” photos: Thomas Gerdon www.glp.de KLOTZ expands PRO DMX cable range In addition to the successful Pro DMX cables of the LX-5X series with XLR 5 pin connectors, KLOTZ now offers this cable series alternatively with XLR 3 pin connectors (LX-3X). For the LX series, KLOTZ uses only high-quality digital cables with an exact characteristic impedance of 110 Ohms. The LX2 is an ultra-flexible touring DMX cable made from the high-end OT2000 digital cable. The unbeatable price/ performance ratio of the LX2 makes this universal DMX cable an absolute bestseller. The LX3 uses the OT206Y double shielded supreme digital cable with black jacket, while the LX4 is made with the OT206Y with blue jacket. For the LX5 series, KLOTZ uses the robust and road-ready OT206PB cable with blue PUR jacket, making this cable ideal for rough everyday touring. The range is rounded off by the LX6 with complete five-way pin assignment. The double-shielded supreme digital cable DC422CY guarantees interference-free data transmission even over very long distances thanks to the use of an AL/PET foil and an additional copper braided shield. The KLOTZ PRO DMX cable series is equipped with transparent shrink sleeves on both sides and are available with both XLR 3 pin and XLR 5 pin connectors by KLOTZ or Neutrik of course, as always, “Made in Germany” with the six-fold KLOTZ quality control according to ISO 9001:2015. The patented KLOTZ packaging also ensures optimum presentation on the display. Martin Audio Announces Next Open Days to Coincide with 50th Anniversary Party Martin Audio is gearing up for two action packed days in early September, which will see it combine the latest in its successful Open Day programme (and the first in two years) with a party to celebrate its 50th anniversary. Held on 7th and 8th September, the Open Days have been designed to coincide with the return of the PLASA Show in London, when the international light and sound community descends on the English capital. The events will rigidly follow COVID rules for both staff and visitors, with appropriate protocols put in place. Sessions will be held at 09:30, 12.30 and 15:30 on 7th September, and at 10.00 and 13:00 on 8th September. Each session will run for two hours. For the active demonstrations, guests will have the opportunity to sample the ADORN series, including the latest ceiling additions, as well as BlacklineX, CDD, TORUS and SXCF118 subwoofer. The Wavefront Precision series, recently recognised with the Queen’s Award for Innovation, will also be presented. The events will also incorporate a legacy and memorabilia walk-through to celebrate the company’s 50th anniversary. This auspicious birthday will also be celebrated with a party at the end of the first day, when the action moves to nearby Marlow for a 7.30pm start. All attendees will receive a complimentary copy of the company’s 50th celebratory coffee table book. The event is capped at 150 people and guests will need to register on a first come first served basis. For full information, check: https://martin-audio.com/events/2021opendaysIssue: 342 news 7 Martin Audio Launches New Online Merchandise Store Martin Audio has set up a new online Official Merchandise store to coincide with its 50th anniversary year. A comprehensive range of high-quality clothing and accessories is now available for shipment across the world. Items include executive backpacks, face masks and coverings, T-shirts and Polo shirts (with and without 50th anniversary branding), as well as hoodies, sweatshirts, bomber jackets, baseball caps and beanies, body warmers and even embroidered logo Barbour jackets. Other accessories include mugs, golf umbrella, lanyards and much more. States marketing director James King: “Our 50th anniversary has given us the opportunity to implement an idea we’ve had for some time. Many users have requested the store over the years, and having found the right partner, which came about through our work with #WeMakeEvents, we are happy we can now offer a range of merchandise for Martin Audio fans around the world.” The merchandise store can be found at https://store.martin-audio.com/ Shure Offers Free New Training Programmes for Live Performance, Production, AV Rental and Film/Location Sound Professionals The past year has been difficult for the professional audio industry. Continuing education during this time has been in high demand and Shure is responding to the need by announcing a new, free training programme specifically for audio professionals. “We want to equip everyone with various levels of technical knowledge including people who are new to the audio industry as well as experienced professionals and help set them up for success as the industry begins to reopen,” said Eduardo Valdes, senior director, global marketing, for pro and consumer audio at Shure. The Pro Curriculum is a new eLearning training from the Shure Audio Institute. The programme is divided into three tiers: Level 1: Fundamentals To become a successful audio professional, a strong understanding of industry fundamentals is essential. This programme covers core essentials such as maximising performance of microphones, wireless systems and other technologies. Level 2: Shure Product Training Audio professionals know that to be the best, they need to stay on top of the latest advancements in products and technology. In Level 2, training focuses on how to set up and use Shure products. Level 3: Advanced Application Training Level 3 builds on Level 1 and Level 2 to provide targeted training for a variety of professional applications. This training approaches audio challenges as a system, addressing concerns in audio, wireless, networking and more, to successfully set up and deploy audio systems. “This is a completely new curriculum designed specifically for this audience,” said Dave Klein, director of the Shure Audio Institute. “While we already have a certification for Integrated Systems focused on conferencing and meeting room applications, we’re now adding a new programme for audio professionals. The training is ideal for anyone involved with live events, broadcast, A/V rental, film/location sound, houses of worship, education, and more.” To learn more about the new eLearning training programme, sign up via the Shure website. Level 1 courses are available now, with Level 2 and Level 3 programs to follow. Courses will be added regularly. Those who sign in can track awards and badges earned throughout Shure Audio Institute training programmes.August 2021 news 8 RigSwitch is a Winner for Zero 88 Zero 88’s RigSwitch is an ingenious remote controlled and synchronised power switching and surge control device that is proving to be a reliable, cost-effective, and popular solution for multiple venues and installation scenarios worldwide. It is a best-seller even during this challenging pandemic period as consultants, integrators and venue specifiers seek to protect vital lighting, audio and AV equipment – like moving lights or LED fixtures – and avoid nuisance tripping caused by inrush currents on start up. RigSwitch was launched in 2019. It builds on Zero 88’s reputation for designing solid and practical power, control and switching products, like the Chilli dimmer ranges and applying the user-friendly logic that has always characterized the brand. Its price point makes it accessible and adaptable, and RigSwitch is opening even more new business opportunities for Zero 88’s core customers. Before RigSwitch, ‘power management’ was a department largely co-ordinated by the electrical contractor of a new build or technical upgrade/ re-fit project, “but utilising this product, can now be in the hands of the specifiers or integrators who are designing other elements of the technical installation,” explained Zero 88’s Tyler Holpin, UK and Ireland systems and distribution sales manager for entertainment lighting. RigSwitch is available in standard 12 or 24 channel configurations – a popular module size to match the 12 and 24 channel format of Zero 88 Chilli dimmers – with a 48-channel RigSwitch device also available on request for the most power-hungry users. RigSwitch can be supplied with RCD, MCB, or RCBO options – again informed by the success of the Chilli dimmers – plus a choice of different user control interfaces. Individual relays are rated for up to 32A operation. The idea of automatically introducing a propagation delay when utilising DMX controllable mechanical relays to control inrush current and avoid nuisance tripping is unique to Zero 88. “The key things we considered when developing the product was to ensure it was cost-effective and accessible to the widest possible range of projects, environments, and customers,” stated Tyler, adding that the idea of using mechanical rather than electrical relays additionally presented a very robust solution. Designed to work 24/7, this igneous piece of industrial engineering avoids elements like burn out. No fans mean no continuous noise, so on top of all that reliability, RigSwitch offers the scope and versatility to be installed close to the outlets in noise-critical environments, like concert halls, TV studios, or drama theatres. There has been particular interest from large and mid-scale theatres, arts centres, conference and other multi-purpose venues. Recent examples include P&J Live at The Event Complex Aberdeen, a brand new multi-million-pound state-of-the-art flexible entertainment, exhibition, event, and conference facility delivered by Aberdeen City Council in partnership with Henry Boot Developments in this key Scottish city, which features 18 RigSwitch cabinets. RigSwitch will also be utilised in the auditorium of the new Fire Station project in Sunderland, an £18m cultural infrastructure development by the Sunderland Music Arts and Culture (MAC) Trust creating a series of vibrant cultural buildings for the community in the city centre, including participatory studios and a performance venue. This is due to open later in 2021. RigSwitch’s potential universal application is equally as appropriate in the educational sector with schools or in the smaller theatres and spaces which are already part of its core business, where it is ideal for powering on contemporary entertainment lighting systems, that might typically include moving lights, LEDs, amplifiers, specials, video and AV equipment. The Zero 88 team has taken additional time during the pandemic to get in front of existing, potential, and new customers, with RigSwitch sales taking off over the last 12 months, an extremely encouraging sign as the industry worldwide prepares to re-start and continue working again in safe and ‘new normal’ scenarios. www.zero88.com The new generation high-brightness Barco UniSee completes Barco’s LCD video wall portfolio renewal Barco, had introduced the next generation of its successful high-brightness Barco UniSee LCD video wall. This is the last step in the full LCD video wall portfolio renewal, after the introduction of the new Barco UniSee 500, OverView KVD-5521C and OverView LVD-5521C. This new generation builds on the unique strengths of Barco UniSee and further optimizes the state-of-the-art image quality for use in a broader range of applications. Barco UniSee was launched in 2017 and was met with great market enthusiasm and a number of important awards, including the renowned ‘Best of the Best’ Red Dot Design award. Improvements in terms of image quality, installation precision, ease-of-servicing and reliability in critical environments, further boosted the success of the Barco UniSee platform. Today, more than 2,500 Barco UniSee video walls have been deployed for a wide variety of applications, in all regions in the world and from small size 2x2 installations to 40m / 131 feet wide video walls. Updating the high brightness Barco UniSee to the next generation means another step-up in image quality. With an improved colour performance under wide viewing angles and proprietary local dimming technology enhancing local contrast (improving contrast with dark backgrounds and reducing power consumption), Barco UniSee is suited for use in even more applications (including control rooms, corporate lobbies, television studios, boardrooms and experience centres). Barco’s Sense X automatic calibration technology is further enhanced, perfecting the intra tile and full wall uniformity. The patented UniSee Mount solution keeps ensuring precise and uniform seams whatever the size and the age of the wall. Barco also further evolved the deployment and serviceability of the platform, making it easier for partners to get the wall up and running and keeping it operational with minimum interrupts. Introducing the video wall Management Suite allows resellers and managed service providers to monitor and manage the complete installed base from a central location. This solution comes free of charge during the warranty period and can be extended with a service contract or subscription offer. Also Barco’s service portfolio has been renewed, offering comprehensive packages for the complete product lifecycle. This allows customers and resellers alike to experience the best possible protection and optimal uptime. Eco design has grown into an important strategic focus point for Barco striving towards more sustainable solutions. The next generation of our Barco UniSee series, succeeded in obtaining the Barco Eco Product label, following our stringent ISO14021 compliant eco-scoring methodology. “The introduction of the high-brightness Barco UniSee concludes our LCD portfolio update and prepares us for the years to come with the latest LCD technology. It also shows our full commitment to customer outcomes by continuing to offer the full range of visualisation solutions, be it LCD, LED or rear-projection cube (RPC),” says Gerrit Vermeire, director product management at Barco. “This demonstrates our pioneering role and innovation in our key markets. The new high-brightness Barco UniSee platform continues the path our customers value so much, adding several additional benefits to the package while sustaining our established eco-system.” The next generation high-brightness Barco UniSee will start shipping from July 2021 onwards.news 9 Issue: 342 ARRI and ROE Visual Disclose Test Programme When virtual production and, in particular, mixed reality production took flight in early 2020 ARRI and ROE Visual came into contact and connected to develop a better understanding of the impact of this technology on both LED volumes and camera performance. This mutual understanding has led to the development of a continuous testing programme. Early 2020, when Europe had to face the first COVID-19 measures, it became clear for ARRI and ROE Visual that virtual production would become an essential technology. Both companies, leading in respectively image caption and LED technology, realised they are a vital link in the chain in developing and disseminating knowledge in this field. Not put off by the impossibility of meeting regularly, and in person, the ARRI and ROE Visual teams gradually developed the idea of a joint testing programme. Working under NDA to protect the intellectual property involved, both companies created a safe and open environment wherein the technical teams could openly share their thoughts and insights. “We started this co-operation just by spending some hours on zoom immersing ourselves in the related professional fields and becoming familiar with each other’s technology. This exchange of knowledge was beneficial,” explains Victor Kortekaas, technical director for ROE Visual Europe. Soon we realised we did touch on the same subjects, only had not yet developed a common vocabulary to describe it.” The co-operation resulted in the implementation of two identical test environments, one in Ismaning near Munich at the premises of ARRI, one in Leek at ROE Visual Europe. These set-ups comprise a Ruby LED wall and an AMIRA camera. The involvement deepened during the regular recaps of the technical teams, led by Victor Kortkaas and Andreas Oestreich, responsible for Software Development for Mixed Reality Production Solutions at ARRI, and touching on LED panel and camera behavior. “It was basically about what happens internally in the LED volume and the camera, testing from theory to practice. But we also tested colour and colour processing, how the colour gamut relates to the camera’s capabilities, how to optimise syncing the LED with the camera shutter, and gamma curves. We also were able to test topics like artefacts, scan lines, refresh rates, and multiplexing,” continues Kortekaas. “One of our key findings, particularly interesting for ARRI, was the behaviour of rolling shutter sensors, often used in cine productions, in combination with LED walls. There was a common sentiment that rolling shutters are not suited in mixed reality productions. Our research proved differently. By optimising the timing of the camera and the LED volume, it became clear that the use of a rolling shutter was not a limitation,” comments Andreas Oestreich. “In addition, we also found a way to reduce common artefacts by offsetting the synchronisation correctly, therefore aligning the exposure time of the camera with the refresh cycle of the LED and enabling the full camera sensor.” Based on the results achieved so far, it is indisputable that ARRI and ROE Visual will continue and intensify the collaboration and prolong their testing programme. “Our goal for the future is to continue our research on the deepest possible levels. In doing so, we strive to obtain optimum integration between systems resulting in a more user-friendly experience,” states Oestreich. “For ARRI, the collaboration with ROE Visual is another important step to offer our customers the best possible solutions for mixed reality applications.”Next >