Equipment News

EVO launches the range’s most powerful audio interface yet: EVO 16

British audio company, EVO by Audient has announced the launch of the latest product in its range, EVO 16. A 24 in / 24 out Audio Interface, this newest release features eight award-winning EVO preamps, advanced converter technology as well as the ingenious Smartgain feature which can be used on all eight channels simultaneously, and continues to deliver on the EVO promise to ‘make recording easy’.

“Building on the success of EVO 4 and EVO 8, we wanted to super-size the EVO concept,” says marketing director, Andy Allen describing the new audio interface which is designed to fit either on the desktop or in a rack. “EVO 16 offers the intuitive user experience, professional sound and technical quality you’d expect from parent company Audient, with plenty more I/O than its smaller counterparts. And yet it still fits firmly into the ‘affordable’ audio interface category.”

EVO 16 breaks convention with its high resolution, full colour screen built into the unit. “With our all-new Motion UI [user interface] control system, we’ve found a new way of doing things,” explains Andy. “Motion UI uses the wide angle screen to intelligently display information on your session as and when you need it, making any interaction with EVO 16 a fully immersive, easy-to-use experience, more comparable to what you might expect when using a Smart device, with no menu deep diving required to activate features.

“Working alongside EVO 16’s hardware controls, Motion UI provides a centralised, one-knob control system for adjusting all EVO 16’s hardware parameters,” continues Andy. “Simply put, every adjustment is displayed on the screen in real time, letting the user make changes on the fly and take full control of the recording session without ever needing to look at the computer.”

As with the smaller EVO products, EVO 16 comes with the Smartgain feature, which automatically sets the gain with the touch of a button. “The added bonus with EVO 16, is that it can automatically set the gain for all eight channels at once, ideal for drummers who have multiple mic inputs and synth players needing lots of line inputs,” explains Andy. “Smartgain has been designed to take the guesswork out of setting gain. Not only does it save time for the user, but it eliminates the hassle for those working on their own, which means users can spend less time figuring out the tech and more time recording.”

EVO 16’s 8 EVO preamps provide 58dB mic gain, while its advanced converter technology offers a staggering 121dB dynamic range, providing professional grade audio performance across the board.

There is also room for expansion with plenty of optical inputs and outputs, making it possible to record anything from just drums to a full band. Ensuring the studio can grow with time, there are both ADAT and SPDIF options to add up to 16 extra channels of mic preamps.

The EVO Mixer software compatible with MacOS and Windows gives further options to set up and route inputs and outputs, provide ultra-low latency monitoring and much more. The meticulously designed solid steel chassis with non-slip rubber feet means EVO 16 can fit comfortably either on a desktop, under a laptop or installed in a rack with its optional rack-ears.

24th May 2022

Firmware update for Infinity Chimp DMX consoles

The firmware for Infinity Chimp DMX consoles has reached version number 2.1. In this release, several new features have been added and some bugs have been fixed.

The latest software for the Infinity Chimp DMX consoles was released on 22 April 2022. Version 2.1 adds quite a few new features, like the Virtual Strobe, which lets users create a virtual strobe function for fixtures that only have a dimmer channel and no shutter channel. It adds synchronised strobing as well as random strobe effects. Another new feature is the cue-only record option, which allows users to mark changes in a cue to be used for a certain cue only. It is now also possible to import Reaper csv files, the MIDI and DMX inputs are freely configurable, new options have been added to the cue commands and the Magic Sheets have been enhanced with more sheets, renaming, cue renumbering, and much more. A full list of improvements and bugfixes can be found in the release notes published on https://forum.highlite.com/thread-1297.html. The Chimp software update function and the latest firmware can be downloaded from the manufacturer’s product pages.

20th May 2022

Ayrton presents Cobra – its first laser source IP65-rated luminaire

Ayrton presents Cobra, its first factory standard phosphor laser source, IP65-rated luminaire, based on the concept of Dreamspot 18K which it first presented at Prolight+Sound 2016.

Several years of development have gone into designing and finalising this exceptional luminaire, which offers a next generation speckle-free laser source, designed for rendering a D65 white point that allows perfect colour reproduction.

Cobra pushes all the limits when it comes to beam definition, with native contrast never before achieved by a digital light source, an incredible beam angle of 0.6°, and an extreme range of focus, XT-Focus, which permits the beam shape to be adjusted according to the operating distance.

Cobra is the only luminaire on the market capable of illuminating an object several kilometres away, with an output of 386,000 lux at 20m and an unprecedented 38x zoom ratio and a zoom range of 0.6° to 23° due to its proprietary optical system with 13 lenses and a 170mm frontal lens.

Cobra adopts a particularly minimalist style, is extremely well-balanced due to the luminaire’s simplified waterproofing, known as EasyProtect-65, and the continuous rotation of the pan and tilt movement, which together multiply the possibilities for creating complex effects (Multi-I.R.S.) and makes this luminaire a universal tool capable of meeting any challenge in all conditions.

Cobra is equipped with a highly innovative colour section including a CMY mixing system and a multi-position instant access wheel equipped with six corrective filters, 21 complementary colour filters, and a variable CTO on two concentric circles, 2D-ColorWheel.

Cobra has an unrivalled graphics capability, offering a wide choice of 92 fixed and rotating metal gobos distributed on two wheels specifically created to sculpt light in ‘beam’ mode, and incorporates an animation section on the gobo wheel, 2D-GoboWheel. These gobos can be blended with two sections of four individually combinable rotating prisms allowing the production of a multitude of volumetric lighting effects. A light and heavy frost filter complete Cobra’s graphic tool palette.

Well-suited for use indoors as well as outdoors, Cobra was developed as a unique versatile luminaire that incorporates all waterproof features, while remaining easily accessible and limited in weight.

Able to operate in the most extreme situations, it has a sunlight protection system, SunProtect-65 and an integrated heating system that safeguards against temperatures below -10° C (14° F), ColdProtect-65.

But above all... Cobra is simply unique.

18th May 2022

Litepanels Launch New Gemini 2x1 Hard RGBWW LED Panel

Litepanels, a global provider of professional broadcast and cinematic lighting solutions and a Vitec Group brand, has announced a further expansion of its award-winning Gemini RGBWW LED panel range. Litepanels’ Gemini 2x1 Hard RGBWW LED Panel is brighter than any other 2x1 panel, delivering up to 23,000 lux at 10ft/3m of output from a lightweight, compact fixture.

Just like the Gemini 1x1 Hard released a year ago, the double-size Gemini 2x1 Hard produces highly accurate full spectrum white light as well as RGB output and a range of creative cinematic effects. It weighs just 25.3lbs (11.5kg), including yoke and integrated power supply, and has a maximum power draw of just 500W. Twice the size of its smaller sibling, Gemini 2x1 Hard produces an output that is an incredible seven times brighter than the Gemini 1x1 Hard, creating a large volume of punchy light that can be easily softened with a range of diffusers.

“Gemini 2x1 Hard produces a greater volume of light than any other RGBWW LED panel available to gaffers and lighting designers today,” said Michael Herbert, product manager, Litepanels. “No other 2x1 LED panel is this powerful or this versatile. We have combined the latest advances in LED technology with cutting edge industrial design to push the boundaries of what is possible with LED lighting for cinema production.”

Gemini 2x1 Hard can deliver a powerful 20° beam of accurate hard white light, or seamlessly switch to a beautiful soft 100° wash with included diffusion panels. Users can control and modify without compromising on source. The extraordinary output enables users to deploy a wider range diffusion or reflection tools not possible with less powerful fixtures.

With no external ballast, the lightweight fixture is quicker and safer to rig. Ultra-light and domed diffusers are supplied as standard. In addition to its onboard controls, Gemini 2x1 Hard offers a range of wired and wireless control options for easy integration, including integrated DMX, CRMX, and RDM. Like other Gemini fixtures, Gemini 2x1 Hard delivers consistently accurate, flicker-free performance at any frame rate, shutter angle, or intensity with ultra-smooth dimming from 100 percent to 0.1 percent.

17th May 2022

grandMA3 software release version 1.7 out now

grandMA3 software release version 1.7 out now!

MA Lighting has now released the grandMA3 software version 1.7. This release brings massive improvements for the workflow with presets, recipes and phasers:

• MAtricks in presets

• Reworked preset editor

• Easier creation of recipes

• Faster programming of phasers

• More intuitive timing and speed

In addition, there are new features as well as lots of improvements. XYZ programming, preview functionality and a DMX tester have been implemented. Important menus like Backup and Patch have been reworked for a faster and easier workflow.

Last but not least, the grandMA3 software release version 1.7 takes the next step of a future-proof lighting control system. It reacts to the rising complexity of shows and the increasing requirements in the different market segments.

Therefore the software delivers a massive parameter upgrade for most of the grandMA3 devices! The rules:

• grandMA3 full-size and light (including CRV versions) will get 8.192 parameters more

• grandMA3 compact XT, compact and replay unit will be doubled

• ALL grandMA3 onPC devices will instantly get 4.096 parameters

The best thing for the user: this parameter upgrade just comes with the software update to grandMA3 v1.7.

For the complete list of features and enhancements please visit: www.malighting.com/grandMA3-software

Here you can find some video tutorials about the new features. Additionally, you can visit the MA E-Learning for the grandMA3 special course v1.7 which contains detailed information about the new software release. Just contact a local MA distributor to get access.

The grandMA3 software is the soul of the grandMA3 platform and is designed to meet current and future lighting control requirements. MA Lighting provides new and existing users of all genres with a lighting control tool to create new and exciting shows at any scale.

17th May 2022

SIXTY82 launches Arena Frame, a new concept in stage systems

SIXTY82 has launched Arena Frame, a new stage concept designed for venues that value the benefits of a quick and easy-to-build stage system.

The straightforward design allows big stages to be built in the blink of an eye; for example, a 200m2 stage can be built in just 90 minutes with a crew of four and a forklift.

The system has a very small storage footprint due to its foldable frames, while it also offers the ability to build the stage and rig at the same time, greatly reducing the time needed to build any stage set.

The Arena Frame system allows every second frame to be omitted, allowing the creation of corridors underneath the stage in both directions without any loss of its load bearing capacity.

For standard decking, 2 x 1 metre elements are used.

The system is equipped with robust swivel castors and an internal lever system which allows the castors to be raised once the stage is in position and rests on its screw jacks. Accessories like stairs, guardrails and transport dollies are also available.

13th May 2022

Neumann Expands its Headphone Portfolio with the Open-Back NDH 30

The German studio specialist Neumann.Berlin presents the NDH 30 open-back headphone. Following the success of the award winning NDH 20, released in 2019, the NDH 30 is a reference-class studio headphone for the most demanding mixing and mastering applications in both stereo and immersive formats. The NDH 30 reproduces the linear sound image of a Neumann loudspeaker setup, perfectly calibrated via MA 1 Automatic Monitor Alignment, in a portable format.

While the NDH 30 retains the high-quality metal construction of the closed-back NDH 20, it is way more than just an open-back version. The entire acoustic system is a new design, including optimised and perfectly positioned dynamic drivers that rival the sonic resolution of planar magnetic transducers. Harmonic distortion is extremely low and, thanks to frequency selective absorbers, the NDH 30 has a remarkably even response across the entire audio spectrum.

“We wanted to create a headphone that is totally reliable and gives you the confidence you need to make the right decisions. The NDH 30 will tell you exactly if your bass is too loud or your vocal needs de-essing,” explains portfolio manager Sebastian Schmitz. “The spatial resolution, too, is outstanding because the drivers are made to extremely low tolerances. And because the NDH 30 comes with an internally balanced cable, which improves channel separation.”

Long term wearing comfort is excellent, of course, thanks to large, soft earpads. For easy transportation, the NDH 30 is foldable. The NDH 30 is thus a portable alternative to a Neumann KH line loudspeaker setup, offering full sound and mix compatibility.

At the same time, the NDH 30 is a reference in its own right for headphone compatibility, which is paramount for commercial success, given today’s listening habits. Its extraordinary spatial resolution also recommends the NDH 30 for creating binaural mixes of immersive content, including gaming and VR, which are rapidly growing markets.

“Neumann is quickly becoming the global reference in high-quality monitoring. From Oscar-awarded blockbuster film scores to the most recent Grammy-winning ‘Best Immersive Audio Album’, all mixed on Neumann monitors. Our customers have been asking for a similar reference when mixing for headphones. After all, headphones are becoming the dominant playback system among consumers, in particular for immersive sound. The NDH 30 is our answer to those demands,” summarises Neumann’s CEO Ralf Oehl.

Features:

• Linear sound, similar to a perfectly calibrated Neumann loudspeaker system

• High-resolution stereo panorama with precise localisation

• Transparent, detailed sound image, ideal for mixing and mastering

• Excellent wearing comfort, easy to transport

11th May 2022

L-Acoustics Launches Ambiance Virtual Acoustics System, Powered by L-ISA

L-Acoustics announces the launch of the L-ISA Ambiance virtual acoustics enhancement system. Ambiance uses L-Acoustics loudspeaker systems, microphones, and an advanced 3D Room Engine powered by the L-ISA Processor II. Ambiance empowers acousticians, theatre and audio-visual consultants, composers, and sound designers to transform the acoustic properties and qualities of a venue space to match the desired atmosphere. Ambiance enhances experiences by better connecting audiences and performers to each other and to their shared space.

The architecture and acoustics of a venue play an integral part in the audience and performer experience. From concert halls with long reverberation times that impart a lush feel for orchestras, to cinemas and halls with minimal reverb that allows for clear speech intelligibility, the experience of a space is as much due to the feel of its sound as to its decor. Where once venues were designed for single-use, today’s spaces are multi-purpose, changing with the calendar to better serve wider audiences.

Adapting acoustics through architecture is time-consuming, budget-hungry, and does not guarantee flexibility. The L-ISA Ambiance virtual acoustic enhancement system uses hardware – speakers, amplifiers and processors – that are already a necessary part of modern venues. Adding strategically placed microphones to capture the existing acoustical energy of a space, Ambiance processes signals from the mics through the L-ISA Room Engine that’s built into the L-ISA Processor II, where reflections can then be individually managed with separate EQ, time, and space parameters, empowering a sound designer to create a desired sound atmosphere for the space. L-ISA Ambiance can be controlled via the L-ISA Controller on both Mac and Windows platforms, through the built-in configurations on the processor or with Q-Sys and Crestron third-party control systems.

“An L-ISA Ambiance system provides flexibility to a venue, opening up acoustic enhancement to a wider market, without the need to alter the look of the space,” explains Jordan Tani, product and technology marketing engineer at L-Acoustics. “Installing Ambiance not only gives a space future-proof flexibility but it also opens up creative possibilities for designers to construct and reconstruct the aural feel of the space to their desire.”

The L-ISA Room Engine allows sound designers to spatially distribute early, late and cluster reflections to the loudspeaker system to provide a true multi-channel room engine that considers the geometry and volume of the space itself. The L-ISA Room Engine gives users the power to individually customise gain, EQ, time and space parameters to craft fine-tuned acoustic profiles. By managing these parameters, sound designers can tailor the feel of a space to create the desired atmosphere for the audience, the performers or both.

L-ISA Ambiance can be used for acoustic enhancement applications or combined with L-ISA Immersive Hyperreal systems for object-based mixing in live performances or experiential playback in theme parks, immersive art installations or other experiential events. L-ISA Ambiance is already shaping sound spaces at the GES-2 House of Culture and at the upcoming ABBA Voyage Experience.

L-ISA Ambiance will be demonstrated at Infocomm in Demo Room W209. A beta version is currently being used by a select number of pilot projects. The public version will be available in Q1 2023.

10th May 2022

Elation grows KL Series with broadcast optimised KL Fresnel 6 FC soft light

Elation Professional is expanding its KL 'Key Light' Series of LED Fresnel luminaires with the full-colour KL Fresnel 6 FC. The new KL Fresnel 6 FC projects gorgeous shades across the full colour spectrum and meets the strict standards of performance venues that are light critical and noise sensitive like broadcast studios and theatres.

Designed for any application requiring high output soft light with precise colour reproduction and adjustable colour temperature, the KL Fresnel 6 FC excels at highlighting performers or scenery on stage in a uniform wash of soft field light. Offering a wide array of colour from rich saturates to subtle pastels and dynamic white light, it is an ideal key and fill light source for situations requiring outstanding colour quality and is a perfect match with Elation’s KL Fresnel 8 FC.

The KL Fresnel 6 FC produces the finest quality of light with dynamic colour temperature adjustment and full colour control. It houses a highly efficient 220W RGBMA LED engine calibrated at 6500 Kelvin for a beautifully diffused wash of light. It produces up to 8,000 field lumens with a motorised zoom range of 10° to 32° for easy adjustment of beam size. For illumination that is more precise with less light spill, adjustable and removable eight-leaf barndoors allow for customised shaping of the beam.

Colour rendering is of the highest quality with high CRI (92), TM30 (88) and TLCI (95) values, meaning that colour recreation is extremely accurate both to the eye and to the camera. As a flexible complement to any professional lighting system with customisable effects to accommodate a variety of aesthetic design requirements, the KL Fresnel 6 FC has also been designed with respect for the whisper-quiet requirements of the professional stage and studio.

Optimised for the specific requirements of broadcast, the KL Fresnel 6 FC can adjust for light that shifts away from pure white towards green or magenta through a green-magenta shift adjustment and a virtual gel library. Capable of matching the white balance for camera, users can easily shift the colour temperature without the use of plus/minus green gels and filters. Additionally, the LED refresh rate can adjust up to 25 kHz so there is no flickering when used with high-speed cameras.

DMX controllable with full RDM support, it offers intuitive manual control for stand-alone operation when desired for instant control of zoom, intensity, colour temperature, green shift and other important settings. Display and dedicated dimming and control encoders are conveniently positioned on the bottom of the unit for easy, unobstructed access. The KL Fresnel 6 FC is also available in a pole operated model for easy pan, tilt and zoom manoeuvrability while avoiding having to access the fixture by climbing on a ladder.

The KL Fresnel 6 FC is portable yet rugged enough to withstand rough handling on today’s fast-paced sets. It can be mounted on a stand or suspended using any standard clamp or the included Junior pin adapter. It is fully self-contained without the need for an external power supply and offers locking power pass through for easy linking of multiple units.

Exceptional colour rendering quality, precise CCT presets and remotely adjustable LED refresh frequency make the KL Fresnel 6 FC an excellent choice for any professional production environment. Elation’s KL Series also encompasses warm-white and cold-white models, as well as full colour spectrum LED soft panel lights, and full colour LED par light.

www.elationlighting.com

5th May 2022

Micro-Scope DMX tester reinvented for RDM

Artistic Licence announces the reinvention of Micro-Scope, the rugged DMX tester first launched in the 1990s and a common sight in many tool cases today. Most significantly, the new version – Micro-Scope 3c – supports RDM, hugely increasing its functionality. And for all those who already own a Micro-Scope, ALhas great news: you can buy a kit containing a replacement chip for your old device which will bring it up to the 3c specification. So the trusty DMX/RDM tester should be good for another few decades!

Artistic Licence inventor/owner, Wayne Howell, explains the evolution of this iconic product:

“It was 1992. The Internet was a scientist’s plaything, email was a curiosity, mobile phones were the size of a bus and the fax machine was the latest must-have gadget.

“But DMX512 was starting to catch on.

“I’d recently started Artistic Licence and I didn’t have a DMX tester. In fact, I didn’t know anyone who had a DMX tester. It seemed likely there would be a market for such a tool. And so, I set about designing what would become Micro-Scope.

“My design brief was pretty spartan. I wanted it to be a sensible price, robust, have a good battery life and provide all the features a roadie would need.

“At the time, Artistic Licence was a production company; mainstream product manufacturing would come later. So Micro-Scope was something of a background project.

“The first prototype came to life in late ’93 and earned its keep on the Pink Floyd Division Bell tour rehearsals in San Bernadino and then the Rolling Stones Voodoo Lounge build in Toronto. In fact, some of the first Micro-Scope customers were the crew on those tours. Full disclosure: that original prototype only really worked when plugged into power, I’d made an embarrassing error calculating battery life!

“Fast forward to 2022, many thousands sold and numerous product iterations and feature improvements made. But today, a DMX tester without RDM looks a little dated.

“In the process of designing our latest DMX/RDM tester, Commissioner rdmx, I found myself wondering whether all this design effort could be ‘poured’ back into Micro-Scope.

“It would all depend upon whether Micro-Scope had bi-directional DMX drivers (RDM works by asking a question and then switching direction to listen to the answer).

“There was no particular reason why I would have made Micro-Scope bi-directional, but on reviewing the original schematics, I had. It was possible to offer an upgrade for a product designed 30 years ago, to support RDM.

“Is this a sensible commercial decision? Many companies would want the old product to die peacefully and generate profits for the new. If Artistic Licence was Apple, I imagine we would have done just that!

“However, we are proud to announce the launch of the Micro-Scope 3c upgrade kit for Micro-Scope. It adds many new features, with RDM at the forefront. It can also receive and re-transmit which allows new functions such as Fix mode to be added to the engineers’ tool-chest. Priced at £99 we are expecting a queue!

“We can also perform the upgrade for any customers not wanting to make use of the DIY option, this is our 'Micro-Scope Manicure' service.

“And finally, for those wishing to buy a shiny new Micro-Scope 3c, we are pleased to announce that the product will retail at a lower price than the previous generation.”

www.artisticlicence.com

3rd May 2022

Magmatic offers touring tough Therma Tour haze effect generators

Magmatic atmospheric effects is offering Thermatic, a series of oil-based hazers designed to give enduring haze effects for longer-lasting atmospherics. Capable of creating a fine particulate that hangs in the air for hours, each haze generator in the Thermatic line excels at enhancing light beams and mid-air effects for higher impact, eye-catching visuals.

Magmatic Therma Tour, is a premium oil-based haze effect generator that produces an exceptionally fine, long-lasting atmospheric haze. Available in a 350W and powerful 800W version – Therma Tour 600 and Therma Tour 800 – both machines create a safe, clean and odourless haze effect that leaves no residue.

Ideal at creating the perfect small-particle haze for highlighting light beams, the units hold 2.5 litres of fluid for over 35 hours of run time with no warm up time required. Hang time is incredibly long at over three hours in an enclosed space after the unit has been turned off!

Both units feature rugged, compact and mobile road case designs to withstand repeated travel and the day in and day out rigours of on-the-road use. Soundproof insulation means the Therma Tour series can also be used in more noise sensitive indoor environments.

Maximum output of the Therma Tour 600 is 1,200 CFM (cu ft/min) while the Therma Tour 800 delivers a remarkable 5,600 CFM (cu ft /min). Magmatic’s oil-based Atmosity ARH fluid has been designed specifically for the Therma Tour series and because the units sip fluid at a low 1.0 ml/min and 1.5 ml/min respectively (fluid level can easily be monitored via an external fluid level gauge), its fine haze atmosphere can enhance lighting effects for hours on end. And it does it while staying surprisingly quiet.

Advanced HPA (High Pressure Air) pump technology reduces the risk of heater clogging for performance that delivers on time, every time, while automatic self-cleaning and energy-saving mode make operation even more effortless and economical.

Therma Tour machines are hard to break but easy to use with multiple control options that include a wireless RF remote, Elation E-Fly wireless DMX, wired remote, Magmatic App, and manual touch-screen control.

Designed, engineered and exclusively distributed by Elation Professional, Magmatic speciality effects are strong solutions that are on-the-road tough and made to endure. Products encompass a comprehensive range of haze and fog machines with the Magma and Thermatic series, atmospheric snow machines with the Polar series, and CO₂ cryogenic simulation effects with the Rocket series. Also available is an IP65-rated series of UV LED lighting products in the Prisma series. To complement all of the special effects machines, Elation has developed a complete line of specially formulated effect fluids called Atmosity.

www.elationlighting.com

3rd May 2022

High power lasers extend the Laserworld Club Series

With the CS-8000RGB FX and even the CS-12.000RGB FX, Laserworld extends its semi-professional Club Series by two high power devices. The multi colour RGB laser systems that can even display a bright white, are equipped with fast scanners so are basic graphics capable. They are diode-only lasers that can be operated by DMX, in stand-alone mode and with sound-to-light. But it is also possible to use professional ILDA computer control with these systems, e.g. with the versatile ShowNET interface and Showeditor or Showcontroller, but also with other ILDA software.

As with the smaller units of 2W and 4W, the high power Club Series units have a built-in effect wheel that is equipped with burst and line effects gratings to multiply the projection and create astonishing, room-filling effects. The effects gratings can either run automatically or be controlled via DMX.

The Laserworld CS-8000RGB FX has a guaranteed output power at aperture of 7,300mW with 1,800mW / 638nm red, 1,800mW / 520nm green and 3,700mW / 450nm blue.

The Laserworld CS-12.000RGB FX has a guaranteed output power at aperture of 11,000mW with 2,600mW / 638nm red, 2,900mW / 520nm green and 5,500mW / 450nm blue.

The beam specifications for both systems are given at 5mm and 1.4 mrad. The scanners are rated at 28kpps at 8° ILDA, so they are capable of doing basic graphics and smooth scanning.

The high power Club Series units of Laserworld have been designed as very affordable laser systems for raw power requirements in large nightclubs and small to medium sized festivals. Even though it is a raw system, it is very durable and can be used for a large variety of applications.

28th April 2022

Austrian Audio Open Acoustics Sound now available for Shure Wireless Systems

Austrian Audio has made a name for itself in recent years with its unique Open Acoustics technology, which makes the exceptionally open and transparent sound possible. Now, the authentic Austrian Audio OC Sound is accessible for even more artists with the new OD505 WL1 and OC707 WL1 Wireless Microphone Capsule for Shure radio systems.

Perfectly matched to the human voice, the OC707 WL1 provides great volume and allows all the subtlety and detail of the vocals to stand out in the mix without anything being overemphasised. The microphone’s proximity effect has been optimised so that it can be used to the singer’s advantage in any performance, retaining the character of their voice at various distances from the mic and with changes in mic technique. Advantages of the Open Acoustic Design include:

• Perfectly formed supercardioid over a wide frequency range

• Superb feedback characteristics

• Reduced susceptibility to pop noise thanks to the innovative pop noise diffuser

• No change in the sound and in the feedback behaviour when gripping directly on the microphone head grille

• Excellent control over the proximity effect

The OD505 WL1 is the perfect performance partner for any artist, whether lead or backing vocals. It’s natural tuning and strong signal quality provide the perfect foundation to bring out the strengths of any vocalist with minimal tweaking required. In many live situations, ambient noise is a big problem. That’s why a supercardioid was chosen as the directional characteristic for the OD505. This focuses on the voice, so drums or other loud instruments on stage are not additionally amplified through the vocal microphone.

28th April 2022

Austrian Audio announces OD5 and OC7 Instrument mics with innovative Swivel Joint Mechanism

Austrian Audio and UK distributor Sound Technology Ltd introduce two new microphones optimised for use on instruments: the OD5, an active-dynamic microphone, and the OC7, a true condenser microphone.

Both mics are handmade in Vienna and subjected to the strictest quality assurance processes. The OC7 features the OCC7 small diaphragm capsule, also handmade in Vienna. As to be expected from Austrian Audio, these mics come with some special features.

Most noticeable is the swivel joint mechanism. Musicians and sound technicians are familiar with the problem of microphone stands that are screwed on too tightly and can hardly be reached in the forest of stands on stage. Once you finally get them loose, they lose their position completely, making fine adjustments to microphone angles by a few degrees difficult.

Austrian Audio's engineers have developed a swivel system for the microphone basket that allows a 220° rotation of the field. The microphone can be very easily aligned precisely to the sound source or according to personal sound preferences without having to awkwardly adjust or loosen the microphone stand; frustrations such as microphones falling off or fingers pinched on the stand are now a thing of the past.

Precise directionality is a prerequisite for the targeted alignment of a microphone. The OC7 and the OD5 use Austrian Audio's well-known Open Acoustics technology: the "linear cardioid" polar pattern captures sound not only from the front, but also from the rear or side, perfectly and undistorted. This ensures that even the, sometimes unavoidable, crosstalk from other instruments sounds good.

In addition to their shared attributes, the OC7 and the OD5 each have unique features. The OC7’s true condenser capsule is perfectly protected by the microphone basket and can therefore be positioned without hesitation even in places where the microphone might be subjected to knocks. The OC7 is equipped with a second order high-pass filter with an operating frequency of 40 or 80Hz. A -10dB pad, which results in lower sensitivity by reducing the capsule voltage, allows it to be used in front of the loudest sound sources. With an outstanding 154 dB SPL (>160dB SPL with pad), the OC7 is extremely resistant to overload.

The OD5 features the active-dynamic circuit; the same one featured in the OD505 vocal microphone. This ensures that even long cable runs have no negative effect on the signal. In addition, the active-dynamic design allows the integration of a proper high-pass filter. In the OD5, a CAB ("Cut & Boost") filter is applied at 80Hz, which is particularly well suited for use with guitar amplifiers, for example. This filter removes the unusable low frequency sound and at the same time increases pressure in the bass range. The second position at 120Hz is a common second order high-pass filter.

Another feature of the OD5 instrument microphone is the pad switch. In the zero position, the active dynamic microphone has a sensitivity usually found in condenser microphones, and at the same time, it’s almost impossible to get the OD5 to overdrive. The -10dB pad is ideal for protecting downstream mic preamps from clipping when they have no pad capability themselves.

The versatility of the OD5 make it a great workhorse with many applications. Perfectly suited for use on various drums with an optional custom mount. It’s also superb on guitar amplifiers, as well as in front of wind instruments.

The OC7 impresses with an open and transparent sound reproduction and, due to the strengths of the OCC7 small diaphragm capsule, it is ideally-suited for use on all instruments that have particularly lively transients. This includes all kinds of percussion instruments including snare drums and toms, but also piano and acoustic guitar. The open, silky sound also lends itself to use on various string instruments.

28th April 2022

New Vari-Lite VL1600 Profile brings the beauty of natural light to theatrical productions

Germany – Vari-Lite, the originators of the modern moving head and a Signify entertainment lighting brand, has announced the VL1600 Profile, an advanced moving head profile luminaire designed for theatrical key lighting applications. The fixture brings a high CRI tuneable white source and the same CMY colour mixing system found in the VL2600 Profile, along with a feature set targeting theatrical productions, TV studios and productions, opera houses, music halls, and performing arts centres.

“The VL1600 Profile is a true Vari-Lite quality fixture that has been explicitly made for theatre,” explains Martin Palmer, senior product manager, Vari-Lite and Strand Luminaires at Signify. “Designers still express a lot of underlying frustrations when using LED moving lights for theatrical or studio key light applications, and Vari-Lite wanted to address that with the high output and excellent colour rendering you’d expect from our fixtures, along with precision lighting features and tailored creative effects. We designed the VL1600 from the ground up to address the specific needs of these applications.”

One of the key features in the VL1600 Profile is the Vari*frost adjustable frost system. “Most fixtures have fixed frosts,” states Palmer, “and there is no way to change the amount of diffusion for the entire image without either replacing the glass for one of the frost filters or adding a filter to the front of the fixture.” Vari*frost provides designers with a truly seamless graduated frost that diffuses the entire aperture at once, allowing for the lightest of image and edge softening all the way to the heaviest wash diffusion, while always maintaining an even frost across the entire beam.

The VL1600 Profile also brings several other features that open creative possibilities for theatrical lighting designers. The exclusive VL*FX wheel, first seen on the popular VL10 Beamwash, has been updated on the VL1600 with animations designed to replicate natural lighting effects such as fire, water and earth tones. To simplify startup and minimise movement, the patented V*Track Calibration system calibrates pan and tilt on the fixture in less time and with less potential for damage to the rig or hanging scenery.

“The VL1600 Profile is a perfect companion to the VL2600 series of fixtures,” adds Palmer. “The colour-matched mixing system ensures designers can use both fixtures together, with the VL2600 Profile serving as the workhorse fixture and the VL1600 as the fine paintbrush, with the precision and detail you need for key and effect lighting. With excellent colour rendering, camera-friendly features and our SmartFan Control that includes standard, studio, whisper and fanless silent modes, it's no wonder that designer feedback has been tremendously positive.”

The Vari-Lite VL1600 Profile can be seen at Prolight + Sound in Hall 12.0, Stand D95. The VL1600 is now shipping.

27th April 2022

ROE Visual Launches Graphite LED Panel

ROE Visual has announced the release of Graphite, the new indoor LED panel targeting the indoor event market. The launch offers a durable yet lightweight LED solution that provides quick installation through its intuitive smart-lock system. Graphite is ideal for building large LED walls and ceilings fast and efficiently for any indoor event space.

The launch is designed to offer a lightweight LED solution for builds where reducing weight can be a decisive factor. Weighing in at just under 17 kg/m2, Graphite is durable yet lightweight, meaning there aren’t any compromises made to either the panel design or the visual performance. So, you can expect brilliant visual performances and high-grade LED quality every time.

Fast and effortless installation is achieved through Graphite’s clever panel design. Impressive, yet weightless panels are combined with integrated magnet-assisted assembly and a smart-lock system. The smart-lock system saves up to 40% of the assembly time compared to standard LED panels.

Graphite allows for various installation options and configurations for any indoor event. You have the choice of building an LED wall, ceiling, or curved LED displays. Furthermore, Graphite offers easy solutions for building your LED display at raked angles or double-sided with the inclusion of full or half panels.

The Graphite panel guarantees an eye-catching visual performance through its dazzling brightness, reaching 1500 nits and fitted with fine pitch, black-body LEDs. The 16-bit greyscales translate into an accurate and vivid colour representation, while the panel stands out with a stable and reliable performance. Graphite is available in a 2.6 as well as a 3.1-pixel pitch.

Graphite will secure its place in the indoor rental market based on its unique blend of features. This innovative LED display is the perfect solution for users looking for a reliable, efficient, and fine pixel pitch LED display.

“Now that the global rental market for LED display is fast-paced recovering, Graphite fills the gap for the growing demand for an efficient indoor LED display. Graphite possesses all features required in the rental market and more. The panel design focuses on fast and efficient installation while providing an excellent visual performance,” states Grace Kuo, sales director at ROE Visual, “We believe that Graphite will be soon favoured by rental houses globally for its unparalleled features in the space.”

The ROE Visual team will be presenting Graphite globally at several upcoming exhibitions, such as NAB Show, Prolight and Sound, ISE, and InfoComm. Experience Graphite hands-on and connect with the ROE Visual team for more information.

26th April 2022

ETC launches High End Systems Talen

ETC introduces the High End Systems Talen, an automated luminaire that adds visual excitement and big looks to any show with its punchy, rig-defining aerials. The fixture’s high-intensity beams are created with full additive colour RGBW emitters and a large front aperture, resulting in an extremely narrow 3° beam with high centre beam candlepower. With infinite pan and tilt movement, Talen moves beyond the positioning limitations of other luminaires. Talen’s footprint is small enough to fit anywhere in a lighting rig, and it can also be rigged in creative hanging positions. Fixtures can be easily configured and addressed through ETC’s Set Light App.

Automated lighting product manager Matt Stoner commented: “It is exciting to add a simple, affordable beam light to our collection of fixtures. Talen is excellent for adding movement to conventional rigs and supplementing big ones by adding excitement and expanding the designer toolbox. With exciting features like an eye-catching TIR lens producing a tight beam of light, Fixture configuration wirelessly via iPhone and Android devices, and the versatile Talen hinge, Talen is the perfect exclamation point for any show.”

www.etcconnect.com

22nd April 2022

Brompton Technology develops Tessera LED video processor device for Bitfocus Companion

Following multiple customer requests, global leader in LED processing for video walls, Brompton Technology, has developed a device profile for the Tessera LED video processor that is fully integrated into the Companion application. This means that thousands of users of 4K Tessera SX40 and Tessera S8 LED processors, who also utilise Companion and Elgato Stream Deck in their video workflow, can now control multiple Tessera functions as well as other devices simultaneously.

As creators of custom, automated solutions for the broadcast and events industries, Bitfocus Companion is an open source software project that turns an Elgato Stream Deck into a professional shotbox surface to trigger a wide variety of AV devices such as media servers, video decks, matrix switchers, scan converters and vision mixers amongst others.

“When Companion came out, it captured a lot of people’s imaginations and offered an invaluable tool for AV professionals. It meant that a single person could now control a number of different AV devices simultaneously from a Stream Deck, for instance controlling media servers and a presentation switcher such as Barco’s E2 EventMaster, which would often be a two-man job,” says Hugh Davies-Webb, product manager at Brompton.

One of the key elements of Companion is that the application is open source, free to own, and can be run cross-platform. “You can run it on a Mac, on a PC, or even on a Raspberry Pi,” exclaims Davies-Webb!

Following the release of an IP control API in recent versions of its Tessera software, Brompton had multiple users asking about the possibility of integrating with Companion. The integration was made possible thanks to the company’s software team who created a device profile for the Tessera LED video processor that was compatible with the Companion application.

“Tessera features such as LED screen brightness, preset selection, source selection, black out, freeze and test pattern selection are now just one button away on your Elgato Stream Deck’s LCD display thanks to this latest integration,” says Davies-Webb, who further explains that the software allows the user to map button to events. For example, one button lets the user activate LED screen blackout and another deactivates it, a different button could set the screen at 50 percent brightness or increase it to 100 per cent depending on the requirement.

“You can also assign colours, texts and pages to the buttons. The possibilities are truly endless as each button can have its own legend, which means each user can create their own personalised Stream Deck set-up specifically tailored to a particular event or show,” he concludes. “The beauty of this integration is that it allows AV professionals to incorporate a Tessera LED video processor into the rest of their video workflow and be able to operate events whilst also controlling other bits of equipment simultaneously using Companion.”

The device profile for the Tessera LED video processor is available with Companion version 2.2.0 onwards. The latest version can be downloaded from https://bitfocus.io/companion/download/builds/

21st April 2022

Shure Introduces KSM11: The State-of-the-Art Wireless Microphone Capsule for Delivering Groundbreaking Vocal Clarity

Shure has introduced the KSM11 Wireless Vocal Microphone Capsule, the company’s new state-of-the-art premium condenser microphone transducer technology. With an elegant combination of low and mid-range clarity and essential high-end detail, the KSM11 is already being adopted by some of the industry’s biggest names.

As live sound production has evolved over the decades, vocals have increasingly relied on meticulous signal processing to cut through the mix. Shure developed the KSM11 to provide the most natural, transparent, and high-clarity sound without necessitating the use of additional processing for in-person, broadcast, simulcast, and live-streamed performances. Whether an audience is listening live at a concert or streaming the show at home, the KSM11 ensures the vocals are captured in unmatched clarity.

“When we’re looking at vocal mics, we want the mic to produce the artist in a true form. You want to be able to hear the vocal that people have come to expect. It was immediately obvious that the KSM11 was doing that better than anything else we were using at the time; it felt like a really easy step up without any effort on our part. If I was to try to sum up the KSM11 with one word, it would be ‘honest’,” stated Will Nicholson, FOH, Dua Lipa.

“As a musical theatre vocal mic, where achieving vocal clarity is absolutely sound design 101, my first experience of it (KSM11) is that it is a great step forward, and I’m really enjoying using it. The vocal is just more upfront somehow,” observed Gareth Owen, Broadway sound designer, MJ the Musical

The KSM11 offers the full lows and clear mids typically found in dynamic microphones and the high-end detail provided by condenser microphones to deliver transparent and stunning vocal reproduction. Combined with exceptional off-axis rejection, outstanding capsule shock isolation, and plosive protection, the KSM11 presents an artefact-free artist performance to audio engineers on which to build their mix. This means they can spend less time applying processing and focus instead on elevating the entire performance.

“When I compared it to the other very popular mic, I was surprised that the (KSM)11 had much better high-end to it. It was much smoother, much more natural. I’d say put it in your line-up, because it is going to be a great-sounding mic,” added Paul Hager, FOH, Miley Cyrus.

“Rappers, MCs: they always cup the mic. That is the notorious problem with hip-hop. I actually talked to Shure, and I said, ‘boy, it’d be really nice if you had a mic that could do this.’ So, they sent me a capsule of the KSM11 and I was like ‘nailed it, you got it.’ It is consistent whether or not your artist cups the mic. I can just trust it. I can trust that capsule to get the job done,” stated Paul Wichmann, FOH, Tyler, the Creator.

Available in black and brushed nickel finishes for use on Shure wireless handheld transmitters, this next generation in the KSM line benefits from a lighter, streamlined design. With specifically developed microphone technology for wireless, the KSM11 transducer is fitted with a ¾” gold diaphragm and premium electronics for industry-leading dynamic range. The KSM11 accurately presents artists’ vocals with unprecedented clarity and virtually zero handling noise, thanks to its advanced suspended isolation system.

“Through our strong relationships with customers and engineers, we learned exactly what artists need in a top-tier condenser vocal microphone. No detail was overlooked. That’s why the KSM11 is so exceptional,” shared John Born, associate director, global product management, at Shure. “When coupled with our industry-leading digital wireless, the KSM11 delivers vocals in the purest form, freeing the engineer to build their mix around the most important channel on their desk: the artist.”

20th April 2022

Ayrton presents Zonda 9 Wash and Zonda 9 FX designed for stage lighting with a unique mix of colour and LED profiling

With the Zonda 9 Wash and Zonda 9 FX, the French brand is launching a family of high-performance 40W LED luminaires with RGB+W additive colour synthesis that guarantees homogeneous mixtures. These spots guarantee the best result and low consumption to fulfil the technological transition needs of theatres and auditoriums. In addition, they have an improved cooling system and a compact and lightweight Slim-21 format for greater adaptability on stage.

Ayrton's new Zonda 9 family has a patented optical system with a wide sphere of 384mm in diameter with 37 PMMA lenses that, combined with 37 glass light guides with an optical microstructure, manage to generate a power of 25,000 lumens. The RGBW four-colour system for homogeneous mixing of pastels and saturates can create 4290 tones with a high level of fidelity (CRI of <86).

Zonda 9 has nothing to envy to incandescence, these LED luminaires count on an electronic dimmer with light adjustment from 0% to 100% without colour variation and with white or colour stroboscopic effect with adjustable speed from 1 to 25 flashes per second. To correct accidental displacement of the equipment in the middle of the show, both luminaires have automatic pan and tilt repositioning in their infinite rotation range.

Designed to be used in stage lighting, the Zonda 9 fixtures have been equipped with self-adjusting variable speed fans for silent cooling in auto mode or by selecting stage and studio modes based on the show requirements.

Ayrton's Zonda 9 Wash luminaire has simplified lens guidance systems and an internal design that reduces the size and weight of the spot to facilitate technical work and the arrangement of fixtures.

The optical system of this wash has a wide sphere, which guarantees a quality colour reproduction and as it separates the light sources it allows reinforces the contrast and the creative play of lights. In addition, it includes in its media library the programming of an entire chromatic palette designed jointly with the best lighting professionals.

New Zonda 9 Wash with a 50mm truncated transmitter lens and optical area equivalent to that of a 70mm round lens achieves a very intense beam with a 14:1 zoom ratio and a wide 4.0 zoom range to 56°. This gives the necessary flexibility to control each concentric circle and adjust the size of the emitting surface and the power of the luminaire according to the show.

Sharing the functionalities of the wash, the Zonda 9 FX moving head adds to it the continuous rotation thanks to the IRS infinite pan and tilt axes to cover any stage need, so it has from 26 to 199 DMX channels.

Its most defining feature is that the profiles of the LED cells are illuminated unlike in the wash model, so 2D and 3D volumetric effects can be created in the light beam.

Thanks to Liquid Effect technology it also produces a high defined liquid effect between its main lenses to create complex graphic effects, which can be used in combination with the main LED matrix.

The Zonda 9 FX's high-resolution microprocessor engines ensure extreme precision and ultra-smooth movements, adapting to changes and transitions in stage lighting.

In line with the goal of reducing pollution and energy consumption, many theatres and auditoriums are changing or complementing their conventional luminaires with high performance LED equipment such as the new Ayrton Zonda 9 family, created to star in this technological transition.

The Ayrton Zonda 9 Wash and Zonda 9 FX for their refrigeration system requires less internal space, weigh only 29.2kg and consume 1,400W. A reduction in consumption and electricity and air conditioning bills, as the LED also hardly loses heat and has an estimated useful life of 40,000 hours.

20th April 2022

PowerLink PDR 19

KLOTZ AIS presents a new 19" power distribution rack with Socapex compatible RMP power multicore and powerCON TRUE1 connectors, for lossless sub-distribution of 16A loads for live and stage applications.

The 19" PDR (Power Distribution Rack) series is specifically designed for the event industry, theatre and television production. The robust 19" aluminium housing is powder coated, laser engraved and fitted with high quality power and load connectors. With the PDR Power Distribution Series, the six discrete 16A circuits of a Socapex compatible load multicore can be distributed to one powerCON TRUE1 socket each.

In contrast, six discrete 16A circuits, each supplied via a powerCON TRUE1 power cable, can also be bundled into one Socapex-compatible six-channel power multicore. In its maximum configuration (PDR12N..-SOC), up to 12 discrete 16A circuits can be distributed or bundled from or to two Socapex-compatible load multicores on only 2 RU. The quality of the PDR series is tested according to VDE 0701-0702. PowerLink 19" power distribution units are available with either six or 12 channels.

To match, KLOTZ AIS offers mechanically heavy-duty power cables of the PT1 and PT2 series. Based on the rubber sheathed TITANEX cable, these ProAVM connection cables, specially developed for outdoor use, are the ideal choice when robustness and high reliability are required.

Fitted with lockable powerCON TRUE1 or PowerTwist TR1 connectors, these cables are not only dust- and water-protected acc. to IP65, but also comply with the BauPVO class ECA to EN50575 as well as the IEC 60245-4 type 66 standard. A generous conductor cross-section of up to 3 x 2.5 mm² provides a high current carrying capacity, the outer sheath made of cross-linked elastomer ensures flame retardancy, oil and ozone resistance as well as increased impact resistance and works over an exceptionally wide temperature range of -50°C / +90°C in installed operation. In combination with the PowerLink PDR power distributor, KLOTZ AIS offers an extremely reliable power distribution system that is just as suitable for demanding use at live events as it is for permanent outdoor installation.

All KLOTZ AIS power cables pass through the EOL (end of line) test desk for final inspection as the last production step before shipping. A comprehensive test for interruption, reverse polarity, short circuit as well as measurements of the protective conductor resistance and isolation resistance according to DIN VDE 0701-0702 verify flawless operation and compliance with safety standards.

14th April 2022

RCF sponsors PAcalculate app update with subwoofer array modelling

RCF presents PAcalculate version 1.3.2, an Android and iOS app for mobile phones or tablets with over 30 calculators, reference info and utilities for sound reinforcement and lighting professionals.

The new version boasts in-line and broadside subwoofer array calculators. The former allows for simulation of end-fire and gradient arrays, including an obscure four-element topology originally proposed by the very Harry Olson. The broadside section features independent mechanical and electronic arcing and steering, with the possibility of adding a gradient line, or several end-fire lines, a type of subwoofer configuration that has become widespread to achieve wide uniform subwoofer coverage with reduced stage leakage. Frequency response graphs (front-to-back ratio as well as multi-angle responses), an isobar display, polar plots, and coverage maps provide a comprehensive set of graphics for an insightful analysis of design alternatives. Up to 96 elements (sound sources) can be simulated, 48+48 in L/R mode. A table is displayed with co-ordinates and settings (delay, polarity) that can be emailed for reference. A footer alerts the user if the specific configuration requires delay tuning on top of the results calculated (such as for gradient arrays).

The dedicated tool reportedly helps getting results quickly and easily. As an example, comparing between electronic and mechanical steering just requires entering the angle in the rotation input field of the broadside array calculator to get results for the former, and then clicking on a radio button to switch to results for the latter. The straightforward user interface also encourages 'what if' experimentation, such as trying different toe-out angles in left/right deployments. Settings can be combined such that the user could, say, simulate a L/R arrangement with two broadside arrays that are arced electronically (using delay) but also steered mechanically and complemented with a gradient line.

Developer Joe Brusi of Brusi Acoustics, a consulting firm for electroacoustics and an independent laboratory for loudspeaker testing based in Valencia, Spain, comments: “RCF and PAcalculate go back a long way, since they were the very first sponsor for the app, so I's great to see such a respected logo on the most exciting update since it was first launched in 2014.”

PAcalculate can be downloaded for free. The app supports eight different languages, including English, Spanish, Italian and Chinese (the app's largest user base).

Play Store (Android phones and tablets)

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.PAcalculator

App Store (Apple iOS and iPadOS devices)

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pacalculate/id793460437

13th April 2022

Ayrton launches Zonda 9 Wash and Zonda 9 FX

Ayrton has launched Zonda 9 Wash and Zonda 9 FX, the first luminaires in a new family of products devised for stage lighting. Equipped with a high-performance 40W LED source with RGB+W additive colour synthesis, these new products fit into Ayrton’s Multi Sources 9 Series category.

Zonda 9 Wash is a radical luminaire intended for stage lighting in the true sense. Ayrton has developed a silent ventilation mode specially for this fixture to accommodate the quieter environment often required by stage lighting. The careful colour mixing of the sources allows for perfect colour reproduction, and each concentric circle can be controlled independently to adjust the size of the emitting surface and the luminaire’s power. A complete library of pre-programmed colours, created in collaboration with lighting designers, is instantly accessible.

Zonda 9 FX is a versatile fully-equipped luminaire designed for a multitude of applications. It borrows from the main features of the Wash version and offers infinite continuous rotation on the pan and tilt axes (I.R.S.). Individual control of each LED allows you to achieve 3D volumetric effects. Zonda 9 FX can produce a high-definition liquid effect from between its main lenses to create complex graphic effects, known as LiquidEffect. This effect can be used alone or in combination with the main LED matrix.

Zonda 9 Wash and Zonda 9 FX share the same proprietary optical system which consists of a wide, 384mm diameter, dial of 37 lenses in PMMA, combined with 37 glass light guides with an output surface made of an optical micro-structure. This LED/optical system combination can produce powerful light output of 25,000 lumens and a perfectly homogeneous mixture of pastel and saturated colours, regardless of the colour mix chosen, with a CRI of <86.

The perfectly crisp separation between the light sources helps to reinforce the level of contrast. Endowed with a 50mm truncated transmitting lens with an optical surface equivalent to that of a 70mm round lens, Zonda 9 Wash and Zonda 9 FX can obtain a highly intensive beam with a zoom ratio of 14:1 and a wide zoom range of 4° to 56°.

A new optimised cooling system, simplified lens guidance systems, and ever smarter design of the internal structure have made it possible to reduce the size and weight of these luminaires considerably, in keeping with Ayrton’s Slim-21 programme which miniaturises and reduces the weight of its fixtures.

Zonda 9 Wash and Zonda 9 FX are true marvels of technology geared for creativity.

Zonda 9 Wash and Zonda 9 FX will make their trade show debut at Prolight+Sound, Frankfurt (26-29 April 2022) on the Ayrton stand in Hall 12 Stand D74-D75.

13th April 2022

Introducing Commissioner rdmx

Commissioner rdmx is a multi-featured DMX512/RDM tool that has been designed to address lighting technicians' every need.

Housed in a robust plastic case with a backlit LCD display and tactile button keypad, Commissioner rdmx is a practical and self-contained piece of equipment that is ideal for site use.

The product includes two AA (NiMH) rechargeable batteries that can be topped up via the micro-USB port (this is also capable of powering the unit directly). A hard shell zip-case is included, with plenty of room for essential cables and adapters.

Commissioner rdmx offers a comprehensive range of functions. The various modes are accessed by navigating through the intuitive hierarchy of menus. Favourite functions (for example, setting DMX start addresses) can be added to a shortcut menu for quick access. The backlight uses green or red colour coding in certain modes to enhance the feedback for the user.

Commissioner rdmx naturally includes all the usual sort of functions required in a DMX/RDM tester, but also has some extra tricks up its sleeve. For example, both DMX input and DMX output can function at same time, allowing data fixing and network testing.

The product's sophisticated receive operation enables it to mimic data levels on the display and perform detailed timing analysis.

Perhaps most importantly, Commissioner rdmx can be used as a cable tester, thus potentially saving hours of debugging in the field.

Commissioner rdmx has an RJ45 output connector. For applications that require a connection to XLR5, an optional adapter cable can be purchased separately, please see Commissioner Cable DMX XLR

Detailed specification:

• DMX512 output / RDM port

• DMX512 input port

• Scope trigger

• Double-ended cable test

• Get and Set RDM parameters (including start address)

• Read RDM sensors

• Display RDM status messages

• Record scenes for playback as DMX512 test patterns

• Set variable DMX512 transmit timing

• Read and display DMX512

• Read and display signal timing

• Signal connection: RJ45

• DIP switch calculator

• 40-character backlit LCD display with colour/intensity feedback

• Power: two rechargeable AA batteries (NiMH)

• Power: micro-USB (power and recharge)

• Hard shell carry case

11th April 2022

disguise launches new Unreal Engine 5 plug-in for next-generation visuals across live and virtual production

Following the highly anticipated launch of Epic Games’ Unreal Engine 5, users of visual storytelling platform disguise can, with the help of disguise’s new RenderStream plug-in, immediately benefit from the game engine’s next-generation photorealistic visual capabilities.

disguise has been working closely with Epic Games to develop and launch the latest version of their free, open-sourced proprietary RenderStream plug-in that allows its user community to seamlessly integrate Unreal Engine into their disguise workflow with minimal configuration. Through RenderStream, disguise users can create output streams on Unreal Engine projects allowing them to make real-time content changes directly from disguise’s software interface Designer.

The new plug-in also enables users to unlock new features in Unreal Engine 5 such as the Nanite virtualised micropolygon geometry system and a new Virtual Shadow Map system, allowing them to create virtual scenes in extended reality (xR) with massive amounts of geometric detail.

To benefit from the latest features in Unreal Engine 5 within their disguise productions, users will need to have access to the latest disguise software release, r21. Released just a week before UE5, r21 brought significant improvements to the disguise software UI and overall system performance, as well as new tools for colour workflows. Developed with the help of disguise’s Live and Colour Insider groups and software beta testers, r21 addresses common user challenges and requirements across both live and virtual production environments, also unlocking a most streamlined user experience.

For the past two years, disguise and Epic Games have been partnering to democratise the delivery of 3D graphics across all types of industries including virtual production, broadcast, corporate events and beyond. Where Unreal Engine continues to push the boundaries in photorealistic 3D graphics, disguise offers a seamless way to deliver this real-time generated content into LED volumes, projection setups and any sort of physical display configuration at any scale.

“Unreal Engine 5 unlocks the most photorealistic real-time content we have ever seen, and, with the help of disguise, users can implement it into their productions with minimal setup requirements so they can focus on delivering their best creations,” says disguise technical solutions director Peter Kirkup.

8th April 2022