SoundSolutions

Bhavanashi Ramakrishna

Editor

contentsSSSoundSolutions

This issue of SS-SoundSolutions has two sets of pagenumbers - SS-1 to SS-52 for SoundSolutions, pages OS-1 toOS-26 for OfficeSolutions and AS-1 to AS-14 for AudiSolutions.

OfficeSolutions and AudiSolutions is inserted between pagesSS-42 and SS-43 of SoundSolutions.

Spirituality is purity of mind, soul,and each one’s endeavours. For someit is transcendental, for some it ispractical. (How many have read thebook ‘Practical Spirituality’ byDr. S Radhakrsihnan?) Most believethere is a delicate and intricate lineseparating the two. I believe it’s atechnology of mind that hovers on thisthin line. In other words, it’s thetechnology with which the mind worksthat either separates or bridges the twodomains of abstract and real- which iswhy technology touches practicallyeverything!

Spirituality & Technology

•INSTALLS•

•INSTALLS•

ss-46

ss-36

'Miss World' in New Glamour

ss-30

Chinmaya Vibhooti Vision Centre

Guiding Spiritual Experience

ss-8 Hot Products...Check Them Out!

ss-13

ss-19

ss-21

ss-43R E V I E W S

ss-34 'Olympic' Opera at theBird's Nest

INSTALLS

ss-38 Glitz of AV at Loerei Awards

INSTALLS

'Clubbing'Entertainment

NSA2009

MINDSHARESS E D I T O R I A L

It’s after all a technology world today;and viewed from the above perspective,technology often drives and guides thepurity of mind and soul, and helpsrealise the Self. Exemplifying this is thecover story this time.

Since technology juxtaposes physics andmetaphysics, a fine blend of the two canbe as intriguing as it can get.Demonstrating this in a very entertainingfashion is our First Person account.

The emphasis here is that both spiritualityand technology are often referred to as‘esoteric,’ and / or worlds apart- which

need not be necessarily so. They can be asenjoyable as one can take it. Today’sgenerations most of whom haveapparently lost their critical links to thisdelicacy need to pick up a point or twofrom this summation and explore theirmindscapes to the level of understandingthe intricate line bridging spirituality andtechnology called modern living.

Value - INR 150 (USD15)

TEAM SANDY(in alphabetical order)

Bhavanashi Ramakrishna

Bobby Chetia

Mohanraj P

Raghavendra T

Yashodhara S

Issue # 30 / January-March 2010

PrintingRamya Reprographic, Bengaluru

SSSoundSolutions

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtfulcommitted people can change the world.Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

SS (SoundSolutions) is a quarterly publication on AV, sound, architectural acoustics,noise control, technical lighting and design for private circulation. SS reaches toarchitects, interior designers, acousticians, performing space owners and tradeprofessionals in India and select cities in the world. SS seeks a healthy promotion ofacoustics, AV and allied fields through dissemination of useful information. Some ofthe information is compiled from industry sources, trade journals, company brochures,etc. for the benefit of readers. SS acknowledges with thanks the authors and publishersof these source materials. SS is a trademark under registration and the contents areunder copyright registration. All rights reserved. Reproduction by any means in wholeor part without written permission is prohibited. Unsolicited printed material iswelcome but no responsibility is undertaken for the same and will not be returned.Letters to the editor are welcome but subject to editing for publishing. SS does nottake responsibility for absolute accuracy of information published.

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EDITORIALBhavanashi Ramakrishna (Ram)

[email protected] Mobile +9198 4587 2794

ADVERTISINGBobby Chetia

[email protected] Mobile +9198 9250 4871

CIRCULATIONYashodhara [email protected]

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SoundSolutions, fondly and conveniently called SS, has traversed withtime, taking the demand for change in its stride. Since the time it took itsrebirth in the first quarter of 2004, it had been an effective, interactiveplatform between the sound and light industry and a wide spectrum ofprofessionals associated with it- like architects, acousticians, AV andlighting specialists and system integrators. The SS now comes to youwith its unique package of two exclusive sections: AS (AudiSolutions),and OS (Office Solutions), catering to the longtime demand of you all- thediscerning readers, industry professionals and entrepreneurs. SandyMedia’s trusted and tested tradition of speciality coverage is further qualifiedwith a fascinating mix of product briefs, industry updates, unique installsand profiles of industry leaders. We believe the new SS fare will be morefascinating than its predecessor. However, our belief needs reinforcementand endorsement from you – our trusted readers – to help us move forward.We, therefore, invite all our readers to send in their views as well assuggestions relating to the information packaged in SS/AS/OS. Your lettersmay be edited and SS retains the right to accept or reject any letterdepending on the merit of the subject discussed. So, please do send usyour Sound Notes, right now.

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SOUND NOTES

CONTACT DETAILS

January-March 2010SS-6

Products...Check Them Out!

Two New LCD Projectors from ChristieChristie announced the launch of

two new projectors, the Christie

LX505 and Christie LX605. Targeted

to the Pro A/V market, these versatile

projectors offer the latest in LCD

technology enhancements.

Additionally, both projectors feature

3D Keystone technology, a new four-

corner geometry correction function

for versatility in projector placement

and easy display set-up.

The projector boasts numerous

product enhancements over its

predecessor, the Christie LX500. In

addition to 3D Keystone technology,

the projectors feature motorized lens

shift, focus and zoom, and come

with a suite of high performance

lenses that can be switched with a

one-button lens release. They also

offer users the ability to upgrade to

more advanced network monitoring,

control and display via an optional

CCM-LX network module.

The Christie LX505 is a 5000-lumens

3LCD projector for users in higher

education, fixed installation, and

houses of worship markets looking

for a combination of performance,

features and high brightness at an

exceptional price. The long life,

inorganic 3LCD panels provide an

improved contrast ratio, and its 10-

bit image processing delivers

superior gray-scale rendering and

video with smooth, artifact-free

images. The 13,000-hour

maintenance free AutoFilter reduces

the hassle of changing filters; an easy

access top-loading lamp makes lamp

changes fast and easy; and built-in

networking capabilities allow for

better troubleshooting.

The light-colored chassis of the

Christie LX505 enables it to blend in

with ceiling tiles for an unobtrusive

fit in most rooms.

The Christie LX605 is a 6000-lumens

projector designed for the Pro A/V

professional seeking a new standard

in 3LCD projection for medium-to

large size venues. The versatile

projector delivers Christie quality,

dependability, performance and a

low cost of ownership to rental and

staging markets, fixed installations,

houses of worship, higher education,

and lighting markets. A hard-

working, durable projector designed

for heavy use in virtually any Pro A/V

environment, the Christie LX605 is

equipped with the same rich feature-

set as the Christie LX505 but with

6000 lumens.

The Christie LX605 offers easy

installation and set-up, and perfect

image placement in any application.

The richly featured Pro A/V

connectivity is perfect for

professional use and the projector's

black chassis helps conceal the wear

and tear in demanding

environments.

"The LX505 and LX605 are full-

featured, high-lumen products with

exceptional price-performance,"

notes Christie Business Products

Product Manager, Frank Anzures.

"They are designed for flexibility and

ease of use with the latest in LCD

technology and new networking

capabilities. With the added four-

corner digital keystone correction

function, users have a wide range of

projector positioning while still

maintaining a perfectly square

display."

The domain of audio-visual technologies is a very hot space. Exciting, often amusing, if not

crazy! With technologies impacting the space faster than even one's imagination, there is a

new concept, if not a product straight away, coming to the market almost every day, to take

the user communities by wonderment! SoundSolutions continues its effort to present some

exciting products that have either hit the market recently or going to hit soon. They might as

well hit the market even as this feature goes to press, or reaches you! (Bear with us, in case

you know these products already!)


World's First 4K HTPS TFT Panel from EpsonProjector applications continue to

expand. In addition to being used for

business presentations, projectors are

gaining wider use in the classroom, in

auditoriums and at big events.

Meanwhile, demand for high-

performance products is expected to

grow as more and more households

enjoy full HD content via digital

broadcasts and high definition video

players.

Epson announced that it has

developed the world's first 4K-

compatible high-temperature

polysilicon (HTPS) TFT liquid crystal

panel for 3LCD projectors. Measuring

1.64 inches diagonally, the new panel

supports displays with resolutions up

to 4096 × 2160 pixels.

With a resolution of nearly 8.85

megapixels, 4K panels offer four times

the resolution of full HD (1920 × 1080),

making them ideal for the high

resolutions required by special

applications such as industrial design,

architectural design and

simulations, as well as for

presentations and

projecting four full HD

images at the same time.

Epson says they have

employed the latest

process and C2 Fine

technologies in the new

panels and developed a

new, original driving

method optimized for 4K

resolution to achieve

high-resolution projected

images with

"outstanding" brightness

and contrast.

'C2Fine' is an original

Epson technology for

achieving high-quality

images with high contrast

by combining an

'inorganic' liquid crystal alignment

layer with vertical alignment

technology.

In contrast to the organic

alignment layer process,

the inorganic alignment

technology uses inorganic

material to create the

surface onto which the

liquid crystal molecules

align. The layer thickness

is controlled at the

molecular level, and the

alignment structure is

generated with a contact-

less process, thus there is

no problem of

unevenness.

Epson showed the ultra-

high resolution images

including 3D when it

showcased the prototype

ultra-high resolution

projector using the panel

at the International

Broadcast Equipment Exhibition (Inter

BEE 2009) held at Makuhari Messe,

Chiba, Japan in November.

New, Cost-effective, Green Projector from BarcoBarco, a preferred partner for

professional visualization, announced

the launch of the RLM-W6- the the

world's first three-chip DLP projector

with a WUXGA (1920x1200) resolution

at the price of a single-chip DLP

projector. With an extremely low noise

level of 32dB, a power consumption

33 per cent lower than comparable

systems and a 6,000 lumens light

output, it is a green, ergonomic and

cost-conscious choice for boardrooms,

lobbies and auditoriums.

Barco's RLM-W6 premieres the

superior color saturation and image

stability of three-chip DLP technology

in applications hitherto mostly

reserved for single-chip DLP® systems.

In addition to its low price, the RLM-

W6 offers a minimal total cost

ownership due to its low energy

consumption. In terms of ergonomics,

its near-silent noise level is a

significant improvement over

competing three-chip DLP systems.

The RLM-W6's WUXGA (1920x1200)

resolution gives it the versatility to

display a wide array of sources. This

includes the possibility to display

video content in native HD with

unobtrusive banners, news tickers or

subtitles, as well as full compatibility

with the latest generation of laptops.

The projector can be controlled

through an intuitive IP-based software

module, traditional control equipment

or free Barco projector fleet

management software.

"We like to refer to our RLM-W6 as a

'three for one'-system," comments Carl

Rijsbrack, Director Product and

Solutions Management at Barco, "For

the price of a single-chip DLP® system,

you get a three-chip DLP® projector

with a better image quality and a very

low noise level. This makes it a strong

contender for meeting rooms, where

you don't want to be interrupted by

the drone of AV equipment, but its

color quality also lets the RLM-W6

shine in environments such as lobbies

or halls, where corporate branding has

to be perfect."

Barco's RLM-W6 is targeted at larger

environments as well. "Its 6,000

lumens light output makes the RLM-

W6 suitable for auditoriums that need

high-quality images at a good price,"

adds Rijsbrack. "Similarly, its optional

rigging and stacking frames ready the

projector for various types of events

where resolution and

environmentally-friendly operations

are major considerations."


Barco's New Multi-format Video Switcher PackageImage processing pioneer Barco

announced the introduction of

PlusPAK for the FSN Series multi-

format switcher. Tailor-made for the

flexibility and agility needed in the

events industry, PlusPAK is a new

hardware and software suite

comprised of four components - a

new Universal Output Card (UOC),

the system's new Multiviewer

(MVR), a Digital Video Effects Card

(DVE) and new software capable of

controlling 2.5 M/E's from the compact

FSN-150 Controller. Because

contemporary presentations are often

more complex than single screen,

single output, single format shows,

PlusPAK answers that requirement with

a purpose-built solution.

The first component in PlusPAK is the

plug-in UOC, a dual-channel Athena

scaler card that enables any assigned

Aux bus to output DVI, Analog or

SMPTE SDI signals at any format -

regardless of the switcher's native

resolution. Each UOC has two

independent channels, and up to

three can be installed for a total of six

scaled outputs. With the ability to

output digital and analog

simultaneously, users can select from a

standard list of output formats, or

create custom formats with ease. In

practice, the UOC enables customers to

route video to projectors, monitors,

servers and even the client's VHS deck

- without format restriction.

The second PlusPAK component is the

plug-in MVR, a fully integrated

Multiviewer that eliminates the need

for multiple external monitors and the

associated wiring complexity. The MVR

displays up to 16 video signals (PIPs) in

either single- or dual-monitor modes,

and all routing is internal to the FSN-

1400 chassis for unrestricted access to all

inputs and outputs. Multiple layouts

are provided with full UMD (Under

Monitor Display) and tally support, and

when combined with the FSN's

powerful memory registers, user's can

instantly switch between layouts and

source configurations with ease.

The third PlusPAK component is the

plug-in DVE, a two-channel 2D digital

video effects card that offers full

keyframe editing, dynamic PIP sizing

and positioning, programmable

borders and shadows, plus freeze,

strobe and color effects. Up to two DVE

cards can be installed, for a total of

four DVE channels on line. In addition,

the DVE interface includes a unique

"shot box" that enables users to

store up to 128 single-keyframe

"looks," for use on air individually,

or combined into creative dual-

keyframe effects.

To complete the PlusPAK, a creative

full control of the system's second

M/E from the compact FSN-150

Controller. With one button, users

can toggle the M/E bank between

M/E 1 and M/E 2, providing full access to

the system's 2.5 M/Es and five keyers. In

practice, when the event calls for three

independent transitioning outputs,

PlusPAK delivers full M/E control and

memory register integration from one

compact and intuitive panel.

When combined with the FSN Series'

plug-in NIC (8-channel Native Input Card),

UIC (2-channel Universal Input Card),

PlusPAK solidifies the FSN's position as the

industry's most versatile "anything in,

anything out" switching system.

"Our customers have asked us for a

new, robust package to meet the

market's need for a cost effective,

multiple output presentation system,"

said Jed Deame, Vice-President of

Image Processing for Barco. "With the

versatility of the FSN multi-format

platform and the power of the

PlusPAK, our customers can now react

quickly to any client requirement,

from the simple to the complex - in a

most economical manner."

EV’s Self-powered ZX1 Two-way LoudspeakerElectro-Voice has raised the bar for

portable sound once again, adding to

the award-winning ZX loudspeaker

family with the new ZXA1 – the self-

powered version of the best-selling

ZX1 compact two-way loudspeaker.

The ZXA1 is powered by an 800 watt

amplifier module derived from EV’s

world-tour-class Tour Grade series –

amplifiers with audio quality and

reliability proven at the very highest

levels.

The ZXA1’s lightweight, super-durable

moulded enclosure ensures it looks as

good as it sounds – a stylish-yet-solid

choice for a wide range of applications

including live sound, mobile DJ, stage

monitoring and permanent

installation. The ZXA1’s professional-

grade 8" woofer and 1" titanium

compression driver complete the

equation, providing a level of sonic

performance previously unheard in

any compact two-way loudspeaker.

The key features of ZXA1 include

integrated 800 watt power amplifier,

biamplified design with transducer

protection, EV8L 8" high-output LF

transducer, DH2005 1" exit true

compression driver, 90° x 50° coverage

pattern, rotatable horn design, 123 dB

maximum SPL, selectable high-pass

filter for use with subwoofers, line and

microphone inputs and built-in pole

mount.

January-March 2010 SS-11

Danish projection screen

manufacturer has launched its new

high performance, retractable 120-

inch Supernova screen. The new

Supernova Flex is perfect for

boardroom, conference room and

other high ambient light

environments. The innovative,

Supernova Flex is designed to fit

discretely into any environment and

is hidden from view when not in use

and is available in both a wall-

mounted and a ceiling mounted

version.

"As with all Supernova front

projection screens, the new 120 "

Supernova Flex was developed to

deliver high-contrast pictures in

high ambient light environments,"

says senior US executive Manfred

Freiberger."The Supernova Flex

combines dnp's revolutionary

optical technology with an

innovative space saving design. The

unique patented design of the

retractable Supernova Flex is

available in a wall mount

configuration. There is a variety of

sizes available and the wall cover

can be ordered in three different

finishes to blend in with any décor."

Supernova Screens uses an active

optical system that is made up of

seven high-tech layers. The screen

forms an optical "sandwich"

designed to enhance the image for

optimum viewing in high ambient

light environments, such as found in

Boardrooms and Conference rooms.

Supernova Screens actively reflects

projected light while absorbing and

filtering out ambient room light. A

special neutral black tint has been

added to the screen material to

produce deeper blacks, but still with

vivid colours and excellent gray

scale reproduction, even in brightly

lit rooms. Supernova Screens meets

dnp Launches 120-inch Supernova Screen

the image quality guidelines as set

forth by the (ISF) Imaging Science

Foundation.

Besides the Supernova motorized

Flex that rolls up the screen at a

touch of a button, the Supernova

Screen portfolio offers a variety of

screen options and sizes from the

Supernova _ Infinity, which allows

you to create a large-screen display

of almost unlimited size, to the

Supernova _ One for smaller spaces.

The Supernova _ Mobile is ideal for

situations where space is at a

premium and where a permanent

fixture is not desirable.


British mixer manufacturer, Allen &

Heath, will be showcasinig a range of

its latest products at the forthcoming

Pro Light & Sound exhibition in

Frankfurt.

A highlight of the new product range

would be the newly launched iDR-16

3U MixRack and iLive-R72

rackmountable Control Surface, which

together provide a space saving,

lightweight digital live mixing system,

bringing the same power, sonic

performance and flexibility of the

larger touring iLive systems to a

significantly lower price point.

A & H would also launch a new club

installation product, the Xone:PB. The

Xone patchbay is a 1U rack size,

passive interface box, designed to

simplify the task of connecting

encoded vinyl replay systems to

installed mixers, without the need to

re-patch.

Also from the Xone DJ range, A & H is

launching the Xone:XD40

headphones. Offering excellent audio

fidelity in a comfortable, lightweight

and compact format, their closed cup

design provides good isolation from

ambient noise, and minimal bleed.

The Xone:XD40’s have 40mm

neodymium drivers, a 15Hz - 28kHz

frequency response, can handle up to

1.3W of power, and at just over 200g,

are lightweight for extended use.

The super compact mixers from A & H –

the ZED-10 and ZED-10FX mini mixers –

would also make their European debut

after their launch at NAMM 2010. Part

of the ZED range of USB-equipped

mixers for live performance, recording

and production, the new additions

feature two innovative ultra high

impedance discrete Class A FET (Field

Effect Transistor) inputs, which allow an

instrument to be plugged directly into

the mixer. There is also a 26dB gain

boost switch, which caters for

instruments with very low output

pickups.

The ZED-10 and 10FX can manage up

to four microphones and two stereo

Allen & Heath’s New Range of Products

sources with MP3 player compatibility,

provide separate 2-track record

outputs and a stereo playback input

for 2-track replay or interval music

from a CD player, XLR main stereo

outputs with inserts, comprehensive

monitoring with headphones and

separate monitor speaker outputs, 48V

microphone phantom power, and DI

level switching for sub mixing. There is

also a USB send and return for PC or

Mac recording, playback and effects.

In addition, the ZED-10FX has a built-

in FX processor with TAP tempo delay

settings and a 24 bit/48kHz conversion

rate. The ZED-10FX uses digital effects

algorithms derived from Allen &

Heath’s pro touring digital mixing

system, ranging from classic reverbs

and cascaded delay plus reverbs to

shimmering flanger and chorus effects.

Setron Appointed ASL’s India DistributorSetron India Private Ltd has

been appointed India

distributor for the Dutch audio

major ASL. As one of the

world's leading manufacturers

of intercom systems for the live

performance industry, ASL

Intercom is always looking at

ways of improving the

company's service and support

to its customers across the globe.

The appointment of Setron

India has come into effect as

part of the same policy.

ASL offers two different ranges of

intercom products, Analogue and

Digital, which between them provide

systems suitable for any venue or event

where clear communication is crucial.

The company's analogue systems have

been an essential part of many live

productions for over 20 years, and grace

many of the world's most famous

venues and festivals.

More recently, the introduction of ASL's

digital range has taken full advantage

of the latest high speed digital

communication technologies to provide

systems with more configuration

options, faster set-up and superior voice

clarity. Exclusive features of the Digital

range include Advanced Intercom

Matrixing, text messaging, person-to-

person communication from any user

station, and belt packs with touch-

sensitive volume controls.

Now in its 15th year of trading and with

offices in New Delhi and Mumbai,

Setron India Private Ltd is one of the

leading importers an distributors of

broadcast and pro-audio equipment in

India. Offering turnkey solutions to a

wide variety of live and broadcast audio

requirements, the company focuses on

bringing the very latest equipment to

the Indian market.

"Setron India Private Ltd is a very

forward-looking company and we have

been very impressed with the way that

the company has embraced India's

rapidly expanding and

technically improving

broadcast and live

entertainment industries," says

ASL sales and marketing

director Susan McLohon.

Headquartered in Utrecht, the

Netherlands, ASL Intercom BV

was established in 1985 by

current Managing Director Eric

de Bruyn. Formerly a

founding principal of Ampco,

a highly regarded Dutch sound

hire firm, de Bruyn formed ASL

Intercom with the immediate goal of

building intercoms suited to the

extreme demands of live entertainment/

broadcast production in both portable

and installed systems. The company has

since broadened into industrial and

commercial applications, and now offers

a full line of analog, digital and wireless

intercoms backed by prompt,

personalized technical support.

"Setron has an excellent reputation for

customer support and so, as a forward-

looking company ourselves, we believe

that it is the ideal partner to help expand

our interests in the region. We are sure

that it will prove to be a very rewarding

relationship for both companies."

NEXO Breaks Big Ground in IndiaWith the goal of setting a new

benchmark for India's live production

standards, the young entrepreneurs

behind new sound rental company

Total Production have invested in a

major NEXO GEO D line array

inventory.

Based out of Bangalore, Total

Productions got off to a very

promising start with its new system.

Buying the rider-friendly GEO D

system helped the company to win a

prestigious contract to provide sound

for legendary American rock band MR.

BIG on the India leg of their reunion

world tour, and to beat stiff

competition to service the opening

ceremony for the 2009 IWAS World

Games (paralympics).

Total Productions started life as an

event management company,

promoting concerts, explains Head of

Operations Francis Perry. "Having used

most of the sound rental companies in

our region over the last 15 years, we

knew all the points of difference for

Susan McLohon with Setron’s managing director, Naresh Dhawan


the PA systems that were available. In

2003, we decided to get into the rental

business ourselves, and started looking

for a world-class system that would do

justice to the kind of projects we were

being asked to handle."

Perry and his colleagues went around

the world to audition various systems,

ending up with a shortlist of three

manufacturers. "We had technical

demos, and we also attended festivals

and shows: at the end of it all, there

was one answer to all our questions -

Nexo!"

Nexo's Indian distributor Sun Infonet

Pvt Ltd supplied 24x GeoD10 arrayable

modules, 12x CD18 subbass units, 4x

NX242 TDcontrollers fitted with ES4

EtherSound cards, 8x PS15 stage

monitors with controllers, and a

quantity of CAMCO Vortex 6

amplifiers. Sun Infonet director

Neeraj Chandra sealed the deal

with a convincing

demonstration of system power

by another GEO D user, Delta

Sound (Aizawl) in Mizoram.

"GEO D delivers the three things

we were looking for," says Francis

Perry. "It has exceptional tonal

quality; the sound is crystal-clear and

transparent, yet so powerful. The

pattern control is amazing: take a walk

across a big field or arena, and you will

find uniform dispersion which is not

very common to many other

loudspeakers. Nexo is rider-friendly,

GEO D is one of the most accepted

systems in the world. Front-of-house

engineers from India who have worked

abroad are surprised and delighted to

find GEO D here at home. And GEO D

will ultimately give us a great return on

our investment."

Chongqing Theatre’S Grand SoundThe Chongqing Grand Theatre in

Jiangbei city, China - one of the largest

and modern performance venues in

the Chinese mainland - had a major

upgrade of its interior and audio

systems. The venue comprises two

theatres- one large, 1850-seat Grand

Theatre and one 930-seat Medium

Theatre. Both the theatres had been

given a new sound reinforcement with

audio systems from L-ACOUSTICS

through its Chinese distributor

Rightway Audio.

The larger of the two spaces has been

designed as a leading world-class

venue capable of hosting opera,

dance, drama, ballet, symphony and

other large-scale variety shows, while

the smaller theatre focuses on small

and medium-size performances, such

as dance, drama, modern drama, vocal

performances, orchestral music,

chamber music, folk music and so on.

In the Grand Theatre, left and right

arrays each encompassing 14 KIVA

ultra-compact line source array

cabinets with four KILO low frequency

extensions have been flown on either

side of the proscenium arch. An

additional two L-ACOUSTICS full-

frequency 115XT HiQ cabinets have

also been installed on each side of the

stage for infill. Meanwhile, four SB28

high-power subwoofers can be moved

around depending on the

performance. The system is powered

by L-ACOUSTICS LA4 and LA8

amplified controllers.

Additionally, 28 108P self-powered

monitors and a dozen 112P self-

powered coaxials have been installed

in the Grand Theatre, while eight

112Ps are hung around the side of the

stages and from the ceiling in the

Medium Theatre, for stage and

auditorium sound effects such as rain

and wind. A further four 112Ps

combined with four SB15P subs are

used for flexible sound reinforcement.

"We appreciate the speed at which

this system can be set up," says Danny

Lau, director of Rightway Audio. "It is

very convenient for rehearsals, which

this system is frequently used for."

The Chongqing Grand Theatre was

designed by GMP International Gmbh

and East China Architecture Design and

Research Institute, while German acoustic

consultants Muller-BBM completed the

architectural and room acoustics design.

After winning the tender, system

integrator Leifull Light and Sound

Enterprises optimized the original design

in collaboration with Muller-BBM.

A large-scale performance was held in

the Grand Theatre to test all the newly

installed lighting, audio and stage

machinery systems. The program of

entertainment was provided by the

Song and Dance Troupe of Chongqing.

The audio system gave an excellent

performance throughout the show,

which didn't go unnoticed by the end

users and consultants alike. "This is the

best theatre that I've participated in

designing in China," says Mr. Kummel,

the main designer from Muller-BBM.

"Despite the effects of the architectural

acoustic environment or the sound

reinforcement effect of the theatre, L-

ACOUSTICS speakers have provided the

best sound for this theatre."

Kummel was also full of praise for

Leifull's sound system design,

engineering construction, and

professionalism.


Navratri Mahotsav Dazzles with DiGiCoClaimed to be the world's longest

cultural festival, India's Navratri

Mahotsav lasts for nine days and

nights and is a colourful celebration of

music, dance and worship. With up to

250,000 dancers at any one time, the

production values for the nightly live

performances have to be high, which

is why pro audio supplier Bestt Sound

System used their DiGiCo D5-112EX

console at the event.

Taking place in late

September, Navratri

Mahotsav brings the

Gujarati people together to

honour the Divine Shakti,

which supports the entire

universe and is personified

as the Mother Goddess, who

protects her worshippers,

destroys evil and grants

boons to her children.

After the inaugural day,

which features

choreographed dance

sequences, for the rest of the

festival thousands of people

dressed in traditional

clothing dance from dusk

until midnight. Each night

features a major live

performance, the 2009

festival including

performances by renowned

Indian artists including

Shree Abhesinh Rathod,

Shree Shyamal-Somil

Munshi, Arati Munshi,

Nayan Pancholi, Aisharya

Majmudar, Soli and Nisha

Kapadia, Sanjay Ojha and

the Golden Cheers orchestra

with Praful Dave.

Ahmedabad-based Bestt

Sound System was one of

the first professional audio

companies in India to

embrace a no compromise

digital audio technology

and purchased the DiGiCo

D5 in 2007, along with a D-

TuBe remote digital tube

mic preamp module.

Since then the company's

DiGiCo equipment has been

around 50 inputs, with the D-TuBe

preamp used for vocals and tabla. As

well as the main system outputs, seven

auxes were used for wedge monitors,

with two for sidefills, four for effects

"Navratri Mahotsav provided the

biggest audience at any one venue

where we have used the D5. 250,000

people dancing to the music is no

mean achievement, but the D5's

clarity, sonic purity and reproduction

of the quality of the

natural textures of the

male and female vocalists

were extraordinary," says

Amiel Best, owner of Bestt

Sound System. "The tap

delay and awesome

reverb also added to the

beauty of the

performance."

But the advantages of

using the D5 are perhaps

best summed up by the

story of a different event.

"At most of the events we

service, until the fibre optic

multicore is securely laid,

we use an ordinary

analogue board to line

check and sometimes play

tracks for rehearsal

sessions," says Amiel.

"One evening the lighting

designer, choreographer

and performers had a

dinner break between a

vigorous practice session

and the final rehearsal.

While they were at dinner,

our team had finished

laying the fibre optic

multicore and the

analogue console was

swapped out for the D5.

"When final practice began

and the first notes of the

track rang out, the lighting

designer jumped up and

exclaimed 'my goodness!

What have you done to

the sound? The track

sounds incredible, I can't

believe its the same one!'"

used on a huge variety of events,

including some of the country's

leading college festivals, events for

famous Bollywood musical director

duo Sajid-Wajid ("who refuse to

perform with any other sound system

but ours," smiles Amiel) and an event

in honour of Her Excellency the

President of India, Smt. Pratibha Patil.

Used to both provide front of house

and monitor mixes, the D5 used


DiGiCo SD8 Rides into JodhpurFamed for its sunny weather, indigo-

tinged houses and tourist attractions

including palaces, temples and the

Mehrangarh Fort, the Indian city of

Jodhpur now has another claim to

fame - it is home to the first DiGiCo

SD8 digital mixing console in the

country.

Sold by DiGiCo's Indian distributor,

Mumbai-based Rivera International to

local production company Rajan

Amplifiers, the SD8 is part of a system

which includes a large JBL and DAS

loudspeaker system, with Crown and

Lab.gruppen amplifiers.

"We had looked at a number of

digital consoles and we were keen to

go with a different one, but Rivera

International were very persistent,"

smiles Rajan Amplifiers owner Rajan

Panwar.

"We purchase all our high-end gear

from them and have always been

completely happy with their

equipment suggestions. Their advice

was to try the SD8 and so we agreed

to give it a shot."

Rajan Panwar (Rajan Amplifiers),Allwyn Ferns (Rivera) and Anil

Naresh (Engineer) andMr Ranjan Panwar (Rajan Amplifiers)

Naresh (Engineer) and Allwyn Ferns (Rivera)

was a totally new way for us to work,

but at the same time it has a real

'analogue feel', which is unlike any

other digital board."

He continues, "It also has great effects.

There is an extremely precise and

effective compressor/limiter on board,

while the floating point effects are

simply awesome!"

Another bonus for Rajan Amplifier has

been how easy the SD8 is to learn.

"The SD8 is very user friendly and quick

to navigate," Mr Panwar adds. "Rivera's

engineer Allwyn Ferns came in to train us

on the console and it took barely two

days of training for us to be up to speed.

We have found it very easy to handle."

Having fully investigated the SD8, it

wasn't long before Panwar was fully

convinced that the DiGiCo console was

absolutely the right choice.

"It is simply a mind blowing console,"

he says. "The sound quality is

excellent, it's simple to hook up, has

superb headroom, smart features … it

E&E Powers Church of St. BennadeteSince 1999, the Church of St.

Bernadette on Zion Road, Singapore

has been undergoing renovation works

to meet the increasing demands of its

2800 - and growing - parishioners. Its

committees in-charge of the church

renovation and fund raising have been

busy planning and executing the re-

development of the church in the past

ten years with the refurbishment of

Parish Centre, which houses the audio-

visual rooms, classrooms for Sunday

charismatic school, offices, gift shop

and meeting rooms. The renovation

also included the conversion of the

priest house into a prayer room, which

houses the Blessed Host

The church was opened recently with

a brand new sound reinforcement

system supplied and installed by

Electronics & Engineering Pte Ltd

(E&E). Designed around Harman Pro

products, E&E suspended 6 numbers of

white JBL AM 4212 loudspeakers at the

main sanctuary, all powered by 3

Crown XTi amplifiers. Two numbers of

dbx ZC-1 signal processing in an

equipment rack provides operators the

digital processing, equalization and

automatic feedback suppression for

best sound quality and automation

during masses.

Eight pieces of white JBL Control 25AV

speakers were lined up underneath

the choir loft to ensure even sound

distribution of the spoken word. Two

Crown XLS power amplifiers drive the

sound through the speakers.

Two numbers of Shure SCM810E 8-

channel automatic mic mixer takes

care of the all the microphone mixing

without the need for a technician or

operator, a specific requirement of the

Church committee to ensure

consistency in the sound quality and

mixing.

The monitor systems in the altar for

the priests and on the balcony for the

choir are comprised of JBL MRX

speakers powered by Crown XTis. dbx

IEQ-31, racked inside the control

room, takes care of the equalization

for optimum performance. Shure SLX

wireless and MX 202 lavalier

microphones were also supplied.

JBL Control 25AV speakers lined upunderneath the choir loft.


APMG to Market Versonic SolutionsSingapore-based Versonic has

appointed Asia Pacific Media Group to

manage the sales and marketing of

their new audio mixing concept.

Versonic have spent the last two years

developing an innovative technology,

which challenges existing ways of

working in the audio-visual industry,

and are now ready to launch the new

concept, recently christened 'Prodigy'.

Asia Pacific Media Group will manage

Prodigy's debut to distributors and will

drive the sales management in these

early stages.

"It's an exciting time for the audio

industry to have a radically different

technology that challenges the status

quo and traditional ways of working,"

says Ken Tovich of APMG. "We're

looking forward to introducing it to

key players across Asia Pacific and we

anticipate an overwhelming response

when they see the simplicity of

Prodigy in action."

Prodigy is a unique audio mixing

concept developed by a team of

designers, headed by Jim Miller, ex-

Euphonix. Miller's vision was to allow

untrained and less experienced

individuals involved in live event

performances to deliver high quality

audio output by allowing them to

concentrate on the final mix itself,

rather than getting bogged down by

using often more complex audio

mixing desks.

Pallas Theatre Comes Alive with Meyer SoundWhen Athens's Pallas Theatre was

built in 1926, it quickly became a

popular cosmopolitan destination

for Athenian socialites, replacing

the royal horse stables that were

representative of this oldest city in

Europe. With its regular jazz music

and other eclectic performances,

the Pallas Theatre paved the way

for an influx of cafes, restaurants,

and other gathering places,

transforming the city's

Voukourestiou Street district into a

cultural hub. Many decades later,

Athens received a much needed

revitalization, and the Pallas Theatre

also received a full-scale cosmetic

makeover, as well as a sound system

based on the Meyer Sound M'elodie

line array loudspeaker.

To equip the 1,500-seat Pallas Theatre

with an audio system on par with its

exquisite architecture, Athens-based

audio firm Omikron Control enlisted a

complete overhaul of the existing

system. Sound designer Vangelis

Petridis knew such a job would be

anything but straightforward.

"The space is mainly used for theatrical

performances and musicals, but they

also do plenty of classical music

presentations, a little jazz, some

cinema, and corporate events and

ceremonies, making it a truly

multipurpose venue," says Petridis.

"This required an easily adjustable

system, but they also wanted us to

install the system out of the audience's

view."

Petridis decided on flown left and

right arrays each consisting of nine

self-powered M'elodie loudspeakers,

concealed within the proscenium,

while three 600-HP subwoofers are

mounted on top of each array. Stage

monitoring is handled by one USM-1P

stage monitor, one CQ-1 loudspeaker,

and one UPA-1P loudspeaker per side,

with a Galileo loudspeaker

management system controlling all

processing. "The Galileo was an easy

choice, as it provides so many different

abilities, including the different sound

levels for the balcony and other

areas," says Petridis.

For the theatre's cinematic

presentations, a 5.1 surround

sound system was later added.

"The theatre managers loved the

new main system," says Petridis.

"They didn't even discuss any

alternative options when it came

time for the surround system. It

just had to be Meyer Sound."

As a result, one more array of nine

M'elodie loudspeakers was installed as

a center cluster, with rear left and right

surround arrays of ten UPJ-1P

loudspeakers each. An additional

independent Galileo controls the extra

zones.

The decision to purchase Meyer Sound

components for the venue came easily

for Omikron. "When we think of

Meyer Sound, the first thing that

comes to mind is quality. The sound

quality is exceptional. The materials

used are meticulously chosen. And the

construction is outstanding," says

Petridis. "We've provided sound

locally for years now, and we choose

Meyer because they are one of the top

companies, if not the top in their field.

Using their products gives us quite an

advantage over our competitors."

"Our vision was to create an audio

mixing console that was clear and

intuitive in its design; easy enough in

fact, that someone who has never

managed the sound at a live event

before, could use it," Miller explains.

"By having this as our precept,

Prodigy opens the doors to a new

group of people who run live events

but who have not necessarily been

trained as audio engineers."

In advance of Prodigy's official launch,

first rounds of introductions are being

made to the industry professionals.

Prodigy is expected to be ready by the

end of 2009 just in time for NAMM

and Musikmesse shows in 2010.


DiGiCo Chosen for RamazzottiItalian pop star and Sony BMG

recording artist Eros Ramazzotti

recently embarked on the first

European leg of his 'Ali e Radici'

(Wings and Roots) world tour, an

impressive 10-truck production

trekking around 23 European

nations' indoor arenas before South

American dates, a series of European

open-air summer shows, then off to

the US and Australia. Audio and

lighting on the show's huge AV set-

up was supplied by top Italian rental

firm Agorà, and included three of

the L'Aquila-based company's large

stock of DiGiCo consoles: two SD7s

and a D5.

Produced by Trident Management in

collaboration with Live Nation Italia,

the show features a production

design by Lemon and Pepper, the

creative and technical team that has

worked with many of the world's top

stars, as well as on previous shows by

the Rome-born singer. The system is

set up so that from the analogue

splitters on stage, the audio signals

are fed to two DiGiRacks for FOH

and two more for the monitors, so

each has a completely independent

signal path. As well as the nine-piece

band, additional signals for

sequences, click tracks and SMPTE for

video sync bring the input channel

total to around 70.

Under the huge stage, Stevan

Martinovic and Umberto Polidori

man two DiGiCo monitor consoles.

Polidori uses a D5 for the band and

Martinovic an SD7, entirely

dedicated to the artist's impressive

monitor set-up, which is a

combination of IEM, large side

hangs, subs under a stage-centre grill

and four wedges out front.

Polidori has worked with other

digital consoles in the past, but

found the D5 the most versatile, after

using it on events such as the huge

show by top Italian band Negramaro

at Milan's San Siro soccer stadium. He

TiMax 3D Sound for Matter's Birthday FeteAs Carl Cox wowed the gathered

revellers during his five-hour Room-

One set at Matter London's first

birthday party this Autumn, he made

the most of the unique 3D room

sound effects created by a TiMax

audio delay matrix and triggered live

via an M Audio Oxygen8 MIDI

keyboard.

TiMax is intrinsic to the sound system

design in the Thameside superclub

and is the key to the 'tight' but spatial

soundfield achieved in the very large

and industrial, high-ceilinged Room-

One space. TiMax operates in two

standard modes: one to optimise the

DJ club night sound experience and

the second to emphasise the stage

focus for live band performance.

Subtle or extreme sound movement

effects, such as mix elements spinning

Carl Cox using TiMax – the monitor shows the TiMax configuration through the speaker set up

or zig-zagging around the room in

different directions, are triggered in

TiMax by the DJ using the MIDI

keyboard. Always keen to assure his

crowd of an ever-unique set, Cox

incorporated these effects into

Matter's landmark birthday session.

Matter's head of sound, Roberto

Pieroni, easily demonstrated the

simplicity of the MIDI interface for

driving TiMax as a creative

performance tool. "I showed Carl the

effects he could use and he loved it!

He experimented a while and brought

the effects into his set with amazing

results - he really enjoyed it!"

It's perhaps further testament both to

the artists and also to Matter's

groundbreaking immersive club

environment that this ended up being

a record night in terms crowd numbers

and revenues.

explains, "I have quite a simple set-

up on this show, as the band

members all use in ear monitors and

the drummer and keyboard player

each have a subwoofer for added

punch at the bottom end. They are

all highly experienced musicians,

which also makes my job a lot

easier."

Maritinovic had already had the

opportunity of making in-depth use

of the SD7, putting it through its

paces on some high profile events,

such as the 2008 Verona Arena shows

by Ligabue and a symphony

orchestra, and a huge live show

televised from Rimini, on which he

had 168 channels to handle.

Regarding the SD7, he enthused: "It

is a great console - fast and practical,

an ideal desk for monitor work and it

seems to me to have a lot more

dynamics, thanks to the system's

processors. I make wide use of

features such as the multi-band

compressors. This software version -

the Mach 2 - has a lot of other

features and great potential, which

I'm studying to put to good use on

future projects."


XL Video Wins Prestigious Parnelli AwardIn front of a capacity crowd at

the sold-out 2009 Parnelli

Awards in Orlando, Florida XL

Video was announced as the

winner of the Video Rental

Company of the Year Award.

René de Keyzer, CEO of the XL

Video Group and Phil Mercer,

Managing Director of XL Video

LA, accepted the prestigious

award. Also on hand to

celebrate was XL Video's

President Marcel de Keyzer

and Jo Beirne of XL Video UK.

Since 2001, the Parnelli

Awards, presented by

Projection, Lights & Staging

News (PLSN) and Front of

House (FOH) magazines has

honoured the highest achievers and

most admired innovators in the live

event industry. The awards, named

after the late production and touring

manager Rick "Parnelli" O'Brien,

recognise pioneering, influential

professionals and their contributions

to the industry, honouring both

Phil Mercer (L) and Jo Beirne (centre) from XL Video accepting theirParnelli Award

individuals and companies.

Subscribers to PLSN and FOH

magazines vote for the

nominations and the winners,

so the Parnelli's are truly a

recognition by industry peers.

XL Video, kicked off the year

off in February by being

voted the Favourite Video

Services Company at the 2009

TPi Awards. A busy touring

year has followed, working

with - among others -

Coldplay, Depeche Mode, Jay-

Z; Johnny Hallyday, Pink,

Staind, Take That and U2.

Also honoured at the Parnelli

Awards was Stefaan 'Smasher'

Desmedt who picked up the

Video Director of the Year Award.

Desmedt, whose most recent project

was the U2 360° tour, works regularly

with XL Video.

Robe Wins PLASA Innovation Award

Robe's amazing new ROBIN

300 Plasma series fixtures won

a coveted PLASA Innovation

Award. Over 60 products were

nominated and evaluated by

a panel of independent

judges, with eight receiving

Innovation Awards. These

were presented by the

Shadow Minister for

Innovation, Universities and

Skills, Adam Afriyie MP, on the

second day of the exhibition.

The judges' comments on the ROBIN

300 Plasma series included "the

opportunity to deploy new technology

in the form of the PLASMA lamp has

led Robe to perform a ground-up

rethink and redesign of the traditional

moving light. The result is a fixture that

impressed us with its quality of light,

low power of operation and rich list of

features".

Robe's MD Josef Valchar states, "we're

absolutely delighted! This is a real

recognition of the 15 years of constant R

'n' D that Robe has invested in

developing new technologies and in

bringing innovative products to the

market. We are extremely proud to be

the first in the world to offer lighting

and visual designers the massive

advantages of plasma lamp technology".

Robe's ROBIN 300 Plasma Spot and Wash

fixtures are fully in production and are

being specified and used for numerous

different projects worldwide.

For the Robe team - who also enjoyed

a fantastically busy PLASA show -

winning the Award was the 'icing on

the cake' of a really positive exhibition.

It is the first PLASA Innovation Award

that Robe has won, and International

business development Manager Harry

von den Stemmen

comments, "This underlines

our current strategy of

dedicating time, thought

and energy into developing

products utilising new and

more sustainable

technologies. It also shows

that people are observing

and realising that we are

preparing for the future".

The ROBIN 300 Plasma Spot

was the first in a unique and

new era of plasma lamp based fixtures

from Robe. Features include a perfect

colour rendering index of 94, an

extremely flat and even light beam (1.3 :

1) and a lifespan of 10,000 hours. All these

fantastic features exist thanks to the brand

new plasma lamp light source which is

now being introduced to the market.

The new ROBIN 300 Plasma Wash is the

ideal creative partner for Robe's ROBIN

300 Plasma Spot. Robe's plasma

lightsource revolution continues with

this latest addition to the new

generation of ROBIN fixtures,

harnessing the power and sustainability

of the LIFI ENT 31-02 plasma source.

Photo shows L - R, Robe's International Business Development ManagerHarry von den Stemmen, Adam Afriyie MP and Robe's MD Josef Valchar

Meyer Sound Wins TEC 2009 Award

Meyer Sound's self-powered UPQ-1P

wide coverage loudspeaker has won

the 25th Annual Technical Excellence

and Creativity (TEC) Award in the

Sound Reinforcement Loudspeaker

Technology category. The awards were

announced at the 127th Audio

Engineering Society (AES) Convention

in New York City on October 10, 2009.

The TEC Award is one in a string of

accolades acknowledging the UPQ-1P,

including the Musikmesse International

Press Award (MIPA) and Live Design's

Sound Product of the Year. This is also

Meyer Sound's seventh TEC award,

following the 2008 TEC Award

bestowed on the company's UPJunior

VariO loudspeaker.

"From its flexible rigging to well-

behaved coverage pattern and

superior sonic quality, the UPQ is

designed to offer versatility in touring,

rental, and fixed installations," says

Pablo Espinosa, VP of Research and

Development at Meyer Sound. "We

put a lot of engineering efforts into

giving our customers an advantage

with quality tools for use in different

applications and for many years. We

are pleased with the recognition and

will continue to work closely with the

industry to develop new audio

solutions."

The UPQ-1P delivers a peak SPL of 136

dB combined with low-distortion

performance, flexible rigging options,

and wide, uniform 80x50-degree

coverage. System designers have found

these features useful for creating high-

performance sound systems in

applications such as the "Star Wars: In

Concert" tour and "Late Night with

Jimmy Fallon," as well as installations in

the Texan Dome at South Plain College,

Baby'O Club in Mexico, Theater De

Voorveghter, Theater De Naald, and

Theater De Tamboer in the

Netherlands, France's Le Glaz'art music

venue, Las Vegas's Mirage Volcano

spectacle, and California Academy of

Sciences' Hearst Forum.


Altinex, a leading manufacturer of

Modular AV Solutions, announced the

introduction of the company's all-new

Neutron Series controller line: the CP500-

110 Mini-Controller. Designed expressly

for extending the capabilities of the

company's highly regarded MultiTouch

line of touch panels, the Neutron CP500-

110 Mini-Controller is ideal for use in a

wide variety of installations, including

boardrooms, presentation spaces, lecture

halls, residential control systems, and

operations centers.

Providing multi-point device control

from a compact Ethernet-based unit,

the new Altinex Neutron CP500-110

Mini-Controller re-defines value. This

unassuming shelf mount unit supports

multiple Altinex MultiTouch touch

panels and provides control of up to

two RS-232 devices, two IR (infrared)

devices, two Relay-based devices, and

two Sensor inputs - making it the ideal

solution for controlling projectors and

Altinex's New CP500-110 Mini-Controller

LCD/Plasma display panels, lighting,

motorized equipment such as drapes

or drop-down screens, and HVAC

(Heating, Ventilation, and Air

Conditioning) systems.

The Altinex Neutron CP500-110 Mini-

Controller offers a 12V DC power

terminal block, an RJ-45 Ethernet port

and four 5-pin terminal blocks - one

each for the Sensor inputs, the two

Relay-based devices, the two RS-232

devices, and IR control. The Neutron

Mini Controller is designed to work

with a wide variety of sensors,

including motion sensors, IR detectors,

and RF detectors. The two Sensor

inputs accept sensor output voltages

up to 24 VDC and each sensor input

has an independent trigger level

setting that can be used to determine

if a sensor has been "tripped" or

"activated" based on movement,

occupancy, etc. - depending on the

sensor type.

The Neutron Mini Controller's two

relays can be used to control external

devices such as a projector screen.

Similarly, these relays can also be used

to route power to low power DC

devices. The Neutron Mini Controller's

two bi-directional RS 232 COM ports

are able to communicate with virtually

any serial device such as computers

and control systems. Each port can be

individually set with different baud

rates, parity, stop bits, and data bits -

enabling a control application to

operate different devices from a single

remote location through the TCP

connection via Ethernet. Two LED

indicators on the rear of the controller

show Ethernet activity and verify that

the RS-232 has been wired properly.

The Opus 600 wireless system is

recommended small installations

(hotels, sports halls, churches etc.). It

meets all technology and transmission

quality requirements while still being

very reasonably priced. The Opus 600

wireless system is equipped with the

automatic frequency setting function,

has 16 pre-programmed UHF

frequency settings and can be

operated with up to 12 channels per

frequency range (depending on

environment and specifi c national

regulations), simultaneously and with

no interference. The latest true-

diversity technology, pilot signal

detection and adjustable squelch

ensure reliable transmission and noise-

free reception.

The flexible interchangeable capsule

system on the handheld transmit-ter

offers a multitude of possible

applications. Two different receivers,

two transmitters and three

interchangeable capsules are available

in the Opus 600 series. Alternatively, fi

ve different complete sets, which all

offer true "beyerdynamic sound", are

available.

The Opus 600 system is available in the

frequency ranges 506-530 MHz, 668-

692 MHz, 774-798 MHz, 790-814 MHz,

and 841-865 MHz. Please refer to

country depending regulations.

Small but mighty - new Microphones

with Revoluto Technology MPR 210 /211

The new, elegant design of the MPR

Beyerdynamic Opus 600 Wireless System210 and MPR 211 Revoluto

microphones is very compact. The

microphones can be connected to a

mixing console, mixing amplifi er or

DSP matrix. The MPR 210 is a pure

desktop microphone while the MPR

211 microphone unit provides a

programmable microphone button

and connections for an external

logical control.

The Revoluto Technology

Compared to a gooseneck

microphone, the microphone units

with the patented Revoluto

technology provide in most

applications a corridor characteristic

and more comfort while speaking.

There is no need to adjust a gooseneck

microphone and the voice range is

much wider. Whether you lean

backwards, stand up or turn your

head, the quality of the intelligibility

always remains the same with

Revoluto.

Revoluto Wireless - ExperienceFreedom

Experience a new freedom with the

new microphone units of the MCW-D

50 conference system in an elegant

design with the integrated and

patented Revoluto technology. Now

participants can lean back on their

chair, turn their head or even stand up

during the meeting. The integrated

microphone array provides the active

speaker with freedom, while the

operating time is more than 30 hours

with the usual beyerdynamic audio

quality. Due to a number of

sophisticated details the microphone

units allow easy servicing. As there are

no movable parts, there are no mecha-

nical wear and tear parts. Should the

rechargeable batteries become weaker

after several years of use, the

integrated battery compartment

allows easy access when needed.

The microphone units with the

integrated intelligent charging

electronics are recharged in the handy

CC 13 transport and charging case

within 3.5 hours and can be used

everywhere at any time.

Revoluto Wireless Components:

MCW-D 531 - Delegate microphone

unit with microphone button and

two-

way loudspeaker system MCW-D 533 -

Chairman microphone unit with

microphone button, prior and clear

button and two-way loudspeaker

system MCW-D 50 - Control unit CC 13

- Charging and transport case for 12

microphone units CD 13 - Charging

unit for 12 microphone units.

MPR 911 Revoluto built-inMicrophone Unit with connectorpanel

The beyerdynamic built-in

microphone unit combines furniture

and technology to provide new

solutions for the conference market.

The microphone unit with Revoluto

technology in a fold-away design is

mounted in a table and can be lifted

up when needed. The precious Nextel

® fi nish in "dark black" blends into

table tops of different materials.

The built-in MPR 911 microphone unit

with programmable microphone

button and connections for external

remote/logic control is the latest

product of this series.

In addition to the classic functions of

an installation microphone, the

microphone unit provides passive

interfaces to connect a laptop to a

local network and / or a VGA video

signal.

Modular connector panel withRevoluto built-in microphone units

In future the connector panels of the

built-in MCS-D 3911 / 3913 / 3971 /

3973 and MPR 911 Revoluto

microphone units will provide a

modular power outlet to match

adapters of different countries. The

connector panel also features a new

audio input (mini stereo jack, 3.5 mm)

for audio presentations.


The Crestron MPC family of AV

room controllers delivers the

most simple, cost-effective

routing and control solution

on the market today. Perfect

for small classroom and

meeting room applications,

the new 10-button MPC-M5

features a built-in 2-Series

control system and fits onto a

standard 2-gang electrical box

with space to accommodate all

wiring and connections.

Seamless integration with

Crestron RoomView® software

via Ethernet enables IT/AV

managers to remotely monitor,

manage and control every room on

the network, and SSL encryption

provides a totally secure network

connection at all times, preventing

unauthorized access to the system.

A fully-programmable user interface,

the MPC-M5 is available in black or

white, and features an attractive and

intuitive layout of 10 pushbuttons

with corresponding LED feedback,

customizable backlit labeling, and

wireless remote capability. It can be

programmed for any function,

including system power, input source

selection, transport control, volume

adjustment, and lighting presets.

Like all MPC models, the MPC-M5

mounts in a wall or podium.

Through its onboard control ports,

the MPC-M5 interfaces directly with

the video display or projector, DVD

player or TV receiver, projection

screen, lift, occupancy sensor, and

other room devices. In addition to

high-speed Ethernet, there is a

bidirectional RS-232 COM port, an IR/

serial port, two relays, and two input

ports right on the rear panel. MPC-

M5 is powered via PoE (Power-over-

Ethernet), requiring just one wire for

operation.

The MPC line is easy for instructors to

learn and use, and equally

important, can be implemented

consistently in every room, lecture

hall or auditorium. The MPC-M5

communicates directly with

Crestron's exclusive RoomView help

Crestron's New Media Presentation Controller

desk software, the industry's most

comprehensive facility-wide solution

for remote monitoring and asset

management. Built-in SNMP support

also enables integration with third-

party network management

software, allowing full control and

monitoring from the IT Help Desk or

NOC in a format that's familiar to IT

personnel.

New Touchpanel from Crestron:

Crestron introduced the TPMC-4SM, a

stylish, low profile 4-inch touchpanel

that is ideal for mounting just outside

a room's entrance to view calendars,

reserve rooms, and detect room status

for impromptu meetings. In 'Room

Scheduling Mode,' the 4SM

communicates directly with Crestron

RoomView Server Edition, enabling

users to view the status of any room

on the network and book space for

immediately or future use, right from

the touchpanel. High-speed Ethernet

communications with PoE (Power

over Ethernet) delivers a single-wire

solution for easy network integration.

'Room Scheduling Mode' does not

require programming or a control

system, simplifying installation

and significantly reducing cost.

Inputs for occupancy sensors

allow the 4SM to identify the

room as 'occupied' or 'available'

and adjust the network calendar

accordingly, maximizing efficient

and appropriate use of these

valuable meeting spaces. To

function just like any other

Crestron touchpanel, the 4SM

also has a 'Touchpanel Mode' that

enables connection to a control

system via Ethernet to support

custom applications.

The 4SM is designed for easy

surface mount installation on a wall,

lectern or similar flat surface using a

single-gang wall box. A multi-surface

mount kit enables attachment to

glass or brick, and includes a

paintable raceway for hiding wire.

Another mounting option is a

tabletop base in a sleek new form

factor. The engravable bezel is

available in smooth black or white,

with or without 10 backlit buttons.

To provide room status feedback that

is visible from a distance, the buttons

will glow red or green to indicate

occupied/unoccupied.

Other capabilities of this widescreen,

colour touchscreen display include

high performance graphics,

streaming audio and video, 2-way IP

intercom, WAV file feedback, and a

proximity sensor that activates the

panel upon approach.

For corporations and educational

institutions, conference rooms are

assets that must be managed

efficiently. The Crestron TPMC-4SM

offers a flexible solution that helps

ensure rooms with different

capabilities and capacities are

allocated appropriately and

scheduled rooms are either used or

quickly made available. Additionally,

RoomView usage reports provide

critical information, enabling facility

managers to evaluate building,

energy consumption and space

planning and make significant, cost-

saving decisions.


Hosa Technology, a leading innovator

of analog and digital connectivity

solutions for the modern musician and

A/V professional, and distributor of

Da-Cappo Micro Microphones

throughout the Americas, announced

the introduction of the Da-Cappo

DA15 Cardioid Earset Microphone with

Earbud Monitor. By combining a

discreet earset microphone with an in-

ear monitor, the new Da-Cappo DA15

provides comfort and freedom of

movement for onstage performers and

production staff alike.

The capsule found in the new DA15

incorporates a sensitivity rating of -51

dB and a maximum SPL rating of 130

dB-making it well-suited for vocal

performers who routinely find

themselves in loud performance

surroundings. This high-performance,

back-electret condenser microphone

provides excellent off-axis rejection by

using a front-facing capsule

engineered to be positioned at the

corner of the performer's mouth. As

the microphone's cardioid polar

New DA15 Cardioid Earset Microphone from Hosa

pattern offers maximum rejection at

the rear of the capsule, the new DA15

provides superior isolation from

surrounding noise.

Integrated into the DA15's ear cushion

is the earbud monitor. This high-

quality, dual-driver earbud offers a

full-range frequency response of 20

Hz-20 kHz with a sensitivity rating of

102 dB - making this monitor capable

of handling high in-ear levels. With

the earbud monitor's ability to

function equally well for both

performance monitoring and IFB

(interruptible feedback), the new

DA15 is equally at home on the music

stage or in the TV newsroom. The

earbud is truly discreet and

lightweight - making the DA15 an

ideal microphone/in-ear monitoring

system that can be worn comfortably

for hours.

The new DA15, like other Da-Cappo

headset microphone systems, features

a hypoallergenic ear cushion that is

designed for long wearing-comfort.

This cushion conceals a flexible,

sprung-steel mechanism that may

easily be adjusted to fit ears of all

sizes. Further, the DA15 features the

same adjustable microphone boom -

enabling one to adjust the

microphone to find that "perfect fit."

Da-Cappo's new DA15 Cardioid Earset

Microphone with Earbud Monitor

arrives as a comprehensive package.

The system includes a 4-foot carbon

Kevlar microphone cable (compact

screw to same), a 4-foot carbon Kevlar

earbud cable (compact screw to 3.5 mm

TRS), a single-cable clip for affixing the

microphone and earbud monitor

cables to one's clothing, and a low-

density pop filter - all of which is stored

in the included leatherette case.

Leading developer of sub-bass

designs for the professional

sector NEXO will debut a new

2x 18’’ at the forthcoming

ProLight+Sound show. The

event will also see the

international debut of

NEXOSoft, an all-new release of

system management software

for NEXO systems from GEO to

PS Series.

Since its launch 15 months ago,

NEXO’s Ray Sub technology has

set new standards in versatility

for subwoofers, re-igniting the

cardioid/omnidirectional

debate while proving equally

successful in both touring and fixed

installations. In Frankfurt, the

company will release the next

generation of RS technology – the

new 2x 18" sub, the RS18.

New Sub Woofer, Software from Nexo

With a frequency response of 31Hz-

100Hz, the RS18 is a compact sub

that performs equally ably in both

directional and omni-directional

modes, offering impressive output

figures such as 143–146dBPeak

(2x1750W to 2 x 4000/8Ù) in

Omni mode, and 140–

143dBPeak (2x1750W to 2 x

4000/8Ù) in Directional mode.

Suitable for use with virtually

all NEXO loudspeakers, RS18 is

a super-flexible performer

especially in installations where

space is at a premium. NEXO

has further refined its offering,

by producing carpet-covered

and/or painted versions for

different applications.

With a view to making the new

launches much more clear and

convincing for the indsutry,

NEXO has decided to create a

demo room on its stand at the

ProLight+Sound event. The company

believes this will help visitors

appreciate fully the new PS R2 Series

loudspeakers, as well as the Ray Sub

bass units.


Crestron's New In-Wall iPod Docking Station

late model iPod devices. The supplied

docking station charges and remotely

syncs the iPod with iTunes as if it were

directly connected to a computer with

the Apple USB cable, delivering full

capabilities for organizing and

transferring music and video files,

podcasts, audio books, and playlists.

The personal iPod docking and

undocking provided by CEN-IDOCV is

ideal for family members on the go,

and a perfect complement to the

Crestron iServer, which uses the iPod as

a dedicated whole house audio server

that is always available for whole

house entertainment.

Prodigy Home Control:

Prodigy is a new line of home control

products from Crestron, the market

leader in home entertainment and

automation systems. Prodigy is a

simple to install, easy to use, and

exceptionally affordable solution that

does not require any special wiring,

programming or expensive custom

installation. Prodigy home automation

solutions include home theater, audio

distribution, lighting and climate

control. Backed by Crestron quality,

expertise and support, Prodigy is

inexpensive control without

compromise.

Crestron is installed in more homes

worldwide than any other brand, and

brings years of experience and success

to this latest line of home technology.

Prodigy is a very simple and affordable

residential solution, delivering the

power, flexibility and reliability of

Crestron to more people and more

homes than ever before.

According to Vincent Bruno, Crestron

Director of Marketing, "Prodigy gives our

dealers the opportunity to expand their

market to provide home control for every

lifestyle and budget. It's the most

affordable and reliable home automation

solution on the market today."

The new Crestron CEN-IDOCV is the

next generation interface and control

solution for the popular iPod personal

media player. It seamlessly integrates

iTunes audio and video with a

Crestron whole house AV system,

using 2-way communication to

reproduce the iPod experience on

Crestron touchpanels. With Crestron

exclusive USB over Ethernet

technology, the CEN-IDOCV

synchronizes the iPod with any

networked computer running Apple

iTunes. The IDOCV is PoE compatible,

drawing power through the LAN

wiring and eliminating the need for a

nearby outlet. Just plug the iPod into

the docking station to experience your

entire personal media collection

throughout the house and on any

Crestron video touchpanel.

The CEN-IDOCV uses the latest Apple

authentication chip, enabling high

speed browsing and compatibility with

the latest Apple products and features,

including sixth generation and newer

iPod classic models as well as additional


The Crestron CEN-IDOCV-DSW

combines the CEN-IDOCV Interface for

Apple iPod functionality and its

tabletop dock into a single, stylish 6" x

4" in-wall unit. Just like the recently

released CEN-IDOCV, the DSW

provides audio, video, USB, and high-

speed Ethernet connectivity to

seamlessly integrate iTunes® audio and

video with a Crestron whole house AV

system; features Crestron exclusive

USB-over-Ethernet technology to

remotely synchronize the iPod with

any networked computer running

Apple iTunes, and uses 2-way

communication to reproduce the iPod

experience on Crestron touchpanels.

PoE compatible, the DSW draws power

through the LAN wiring and

eliminates the need for a nearby

outlet.

Using a choice of two optional

mounting kits, the CEN-IDOCV-DSW

is designed for easy recess-mount

installation in walls - perfect for

new construction, renovations and

retrofits - adding stylish, practical

home entertainment to any interior

design. The LOCAL button on the

front of the DSW enables

navigation directly on the iPod

device without undocking, and

convenient volume control is

achieved by using the VOL rocker

button, eliminating the need to

have a touchpanel or keypad

nearby. Syncing the iPod to iTunes

works the same as if it were directly

connected to a computer with the

Apple USB cable, affording full

capabilities for organizing and

transferring music and video files,

podcasts, audio books, and

playlists.

"Now users have the option to choose

a tabletop docking station for the

home office and an in-wall in the

kitchen, for example," said Vincent

Bruno, Crestron Director of Marketing.

"You can enjoy your entire personal

media collection anywhere in the

house and on any Crestron

touchpanel, just by placing your iPod

in the most convenient docking

station."

The personal iPod docking and

undocking provided by the IDOCV

and DSW are ideal for family members

on the go. It is also a perfect

complement to the Crestron iServer™,

which uses an iPod as a dedicated

audio server always available for

whole house entertainment.

The CEN-IDOCV and CEN-IDOCV-DSW

are the latest interfaces for iPod from

Crestron, replacing the original CEN-

IDOC.

The New iPod Controller:

Prodigy is scalable, so the system can

easily grow at any time. Start with a

simple home theater today; then add

whole house audio, lighting and

climate control, even remote control

from laptops and mobile devices.

Control interfaces include

touchpanels, handheld controllers,

wireless keypads, and remote access

via iPhone and laptop.

Prodigy is easy to setup. There's no

system design, no wiring and no

expensive installation. Prodigy Composer

guides you through a few simple steps

using basic drop down menus and check

boxes. The software provides all the logic

and creates touchscreen interfaces

automatically in the background. The

wizard is intuitive so anyone can get a

system up and running in minutes

without any training.

M-series converters have optical and

coaxial MADI I/Os for fail safe

redundancy operation. The MADI input

serves not only as optional external

clock source, but also passes unused

channels through to the output. This

way the signals of multiple units can be

RME's comprehensive MADI line is

now extended by hi-class

multichannel converters with 16 and

32 channels. The M-series converters

have been conceived and optimized

for professional studio, stage, and

broadcast applications.

Packed into only 2U height the M-32

AD offers a 32-channel AD-

conversion to MADI and ADAT in

reference quality. The fully

symmetrical analog circuit design

guarantees excellent S/N and THD

specs across a wide analog level

range. Using up-to-date converter

technology, the device not only

works up to 192 kHz, but also

reaches a real-world signal-to-noise

ratio of 116 dBA - on all channels.

Further features are analog limiters

for an efficient protection of the

analog inouts against overload,

three hardware reference levels up to

+24 dBu, MADI and ADAT I/O, analog

inputs via 6.3mm TRS and D-sub

connectors, remote control via MIDI

and MIDI over MADI, and operation

across a wide range of mains

voltages.

Nearly identical features are found in

the M-32 DA, which offers a 32-

channel high-end DA conversion. It is

easy to operate despite having a

comprehensive feature set. The unit

combines excellent analog circuit

design with the latest converter chips

and RME's superior SteadyClock into a

state-of-the-art DA conversion, with

outstanding THD and S/N specs of up

to 118 dBA.

Both converters are also available as

16-channel versions. Except for the

reduced channel count M-16 AD and

M-16 DA are identical to their bigger

brothers.

New RME M-series Converters Hits Market

combined serially into one MADI

stream of up to 64 channels. Thus

RME's new M-series is an unsurpassed

flexible base for the realization of

multichannel setups. Combinations of

the M-16 and M-32 converters allow

setups with 16, 32, 48, or 64 channels,

according to your individual

application or budget. Up to four M-16

AD/DA and up to two M-32 AD/DA can

be connected in series via MADI.

Included ADAT ports make the M-

series not only first choice with MADI,

but also a perfect solution for all other

units having ADAT interfaces.

TASCAM's premiere multi-channel

interface is the US-2000, a 16 in/4 out

USB interface that fits in only one

rackspace. The US-2000 has eight XLR

mic inputs with

phantom power, enough to record a

large band or drumset. An additional

six balanced 1/4" line inputs are

provided for synths, amp modelers

and effects processors. Stereo S/PDIF

digital inputs and outputs bring the

total to 16 inputs that can be recorded

simultaneously.

The US-2000 transmits your

instruments at up to 96kHz/24-bit

audio quality over a high-speed

USB 2.0 connection to your

computer. To keep track of all of

your inputs and outputs, the US-

2000 has a meter bridge made up of

100 LEDs. Connections are hidden

on the rear panel, except for a pair

of combo jacks on the front for

easy access.

TASCAM's New Multi-channel Interface

Included with the US-2000 is a copy of

Cubase LE4 from Steinberg. This full-

featured recording software captures

up to 48 tracks of audio with another

64 MIDI tracks. You can edit your tracks

to perfection using a variety of modes

and tools. Automated mixing is

included to create the perfect master.

Cubase LE4 supports VST effect and

instrument plug-ins, which an

assortment included with the

application. TASCAM's copy of Cubase

LE4 can record 16 channels at a time so

you can take advantage of all the

inputs on the US-2000.

TASCAM's high-quality audio interface

takes advantage of the latest USB

technology to provide such high

channel count over USB 2.0. Step up to

the ultimate in compact, great sounding

interfacing with the US-2000.


New Portable Digital Recorderfrom TASCAM

TASCAM's DR-2d Portable Digital

Recorder brings high-resolution

recording to a compact, affordable

package. It offers up to 96kHz/24-bit

WAV or MP3 recording to SD cards,

and recordings can be transferred to

computer through high-speed USB

2.0. A new dual recording feature

records a copy of your audio at a

lower level, so if the level suddenly

jumps you have a backup instead of a

distorted performance. Record using

the new built-in condenser

microphones or plug in your own. You

Marking its 30 anniversary, NEXO

debuted new editions of its best-

selling mainstream loudspeaker

products. Launched at PLASA, the

new PS R2 Series is likely to set new

performance benchmarks in its class,

an exciting range of high-output

high-versatility compact cabinets

which is ideal for near-field portable

and installed PA applications in clubs,

houses of worship, theatres and A/V

installations. As well as being an

exceptional choice for stage

monitoring at all levels of live

performance, the cabinets will serve as

fill-in complements for NEXO GEO and

Alpha systems.

The new PS R2 Series delivers

enhanced performance and

operability, including increases of up

to 6dB SPL from a range comprising

three scalable systems, all of which can

be quickly and easily configured for

main PA use, for use as floor monitors,

or flown vertically or horizontally in

installations or for use as side/rear fills.

The PS R2 Series offers the user a

totally integrated loudspeaker

solution, in which innovative

transducer, waveguide and enclosure

designs come together under the

control of strategic equalisation from

dedicated TD Controllers to ensure

extended bandwidth and sound

pressure levels, along with a high

degree of speaker protection.

For the latest generation of PS, there

are new subbass options - the RS15 is

now offered as the standard sub for

the PS15-R2, providing great versatility

through its ability to operate in either

omni or directional mode. PLASA also

sees the launch of a new sub - the

LS600 - dedicated for use with the

NEXO Debuts New Compact Speakers

PS10-R2. These PS R2 systems include

dedicated analogue controllers, the

new PS10TDController-R2 and the

PS15TDController-R2. And all the new

cabinets will now be offered with

power options from the NXAMP

product range.

NEXO's patented Asymmetrical

Dispersion Constant Directivity horn is

the signature physical design feature

of any PS cabinet, allowing it to be

used horizontally or vertically. This

famous rotating horn mechanism has

been simplified in the new edition of

loudspeakers. New grilles have been

designed for all the models, providing

greater durability, particularly in

wedge mode. New mounting plates

derived from the GEO Series enable a

vast array of new touring and fixed

accessories to be used with the new

models, and both the PS15-R2 and

PS10-R2 will have enlarged preset

families.

Joe White, marketing manager of

NEXO S.A., confirms that "our new PS

R2s will have an accessory that earns

IP54 certification, which greatly

enhances the utilisation of these boxes

for outdoor installs. Furthermore all

new accessories developed for the PS

R2 range will have TUV certification.

These will be the only full-range pole-

mounted cabinets on the market that

have standard TUV certified accessories

like NEXO's GEO line."

NEXO launched the highly-esteemed

PS10 and 15 cabinets in 1993-94, just

before it became a limited company.

The smaller PS8 was released in 2000.

The PS15 remains, even to date,

NEXO's best-selling product, and more

than 200,000 NEXO PS Series speakers

are hard at work around the world in

applications where compact, high-

output, linear response loudspeakers

are required.

can slow down recordings without

changing the pitch, and there's even a

metronome and built-in speaker. The

DR-2d provides hours of recording

time using a pair of AA batteries

making it the perfect partner for

songwriting, live performance,

rehearsal or home studio recording.


The TL1801A represents the

future of long excursion, high

output sub bass loudspeakers.

It's elegant, advanced

design features a high

temperature Neodymium

magnet surrounding an

under hung voice coil encased in a

low carbon steel structure. The

transducer's architecture enables the

cone to have extremely high

excursion (displacement range) with

the lowest possible distortion and

power compression.

Weighing 52 lbs (23.59 kg), the

WorxAudio TL1801A is extremely

efficient, and handles an enormous

amount of power. The woofer's

Neodymium magnet has greater BL

product (measurement of magnet

strength) over conventional ceramic

magnets or smaller Neodymium

Worxaudio's New Tl1801A Sub Transducer

magnets that are commonly

utilized in other 18-inch

loudspeakers. The benefit is

more than four times the

acoustic output compared

to competing products.

The TL1801A's newly

advanced cone design utilizes a high

strength composite for light weight

efficiency while allowing greater

overall movement. The TL1801A's

driver has two inches (50.80 mm) of

peak to peak fully linear excursion,

and can move more than three

inches (76.20 mm) prior to any

deterioration. The result is a woofer

with more linear excursion, thus

providing greater acoustic output

with ultra low distortion, quick

transient response, and extremely

low power compression with very

high linearity.

Every aspect of the new TL1801A has

been thoroughly designed and

tested to ensure unsurpassed low

frequency performance. The shape of

the TL1801A's motor was optimized

using finite element analysis to

dissipate heat, focus flux (constant

movement), and reduce weight. This

promotes convection cooling with

cone motion by pulling air through

the motor - forcing heat out of the

structure and through the vent

below the double spiders, further

reducing the effects of steady state

power compression caused by

extreme input levels over long

periods of time.

The TL1801A is presently

incorporated into the company's

TrueLine Series TL218SS and TL118SS

sub bass enclosures. It will also be

included in additional forthcoming

products.

WorxAudio Technologies,

announced the introduction of the

first few offerings in an expanding

series of instructional high definition

videos. Produced in 1080i HD (High

Definition) for exceptional image

clarity, each video averages five to

six minutes in duration. In addition

to being readily available for instant

download, WorxAudio Technologies

also makes the videos available on

DVD by request. Further, the

WorxAudio site includes links for

downloadable versions of these

videos for portable devices such as

Apple's iPhone, iPod Touch, iPod,

and similar SmartPhones and media

players - enabling audio

professionals to readily access these

support materials should they

encounter questions while in the

field.

The first available WorxAudio videos

include a technical presentation for

pro touring rigging and another

such video for installation rigging.

These materials present a clear,

concise look at the differences

between flying a concert

system as opposed to a

permanent installation

that makes use of the

company's TrueAim Grid.

There is also a training

video for use with

WorxAudio 's PMD Series

power amplifiers that

shows the proper

procedure for powering

the system up, changing program

settings, determining current draw,

as well as a look at the connectors

and various functions available.

Equally significant, WorxAudio

Technologies has a technical video

that documents how to assemble and

test a particular product, such as a

TrueLine V8 line array. This

informative video examines basic

service and maintenance issues that

audio professionals may encounter

during regular use of the products.

In addition to the aforementioned

video presentations, WorxAudio will

soon introduce several "technology

overview" videos that feature the

company's various products. These

materials will present an up-close

look, for example, of how a TrueLine

V-Series line array (V8 or V10)

operates, its various design

considerations, basic operation, and

how the loudspeaker system relates

to competing products. Similar

materials are also scheduled for the

WorxAudio TrueLine X-Series, and

the company's highly acclaimed

Super Sub with its long excursion,

18-inch design.

"The new WorxAudio video

materials present a look at many of

the most commonly asked questions

Worxaudio's New Instructional Video Series


Sheffield-based Cloud Electronics has

announced the launch of a first-time

innovation from its stables - the

MA60MEDIA - matching many

applications in the retail, hospitality,

licensed premises and other

entertainment markets. A simplified

version, the MA60, is also available

without on-board digital music player.

The MA60MEDIA is an exciting new

development which combines the

reliability and proven versatility of

Cloud mixer-amplifiers with the

convenience of an on-board media

player in a single, compact (2U, half-

rack width) unit.

The unit plays MP3 or WMA files

directly from a USB device or SD

memory card plugged into the front

panel of the unit, via a simple set of

playback controls. Optionally, music

source selection and level may be

controlled remotely. All standard data

rates and sampling frequencies are

supported.

The MA60MEDIA may be configured

to suit most paging systems. The

balanced mic input (phantom power

available), can be mixed with one of

four music inputs; one of these may be

the internal music player. Music input

2 is provided with a 3.5 mm jack input

for easy connection of a portable

music player, laptop or similar.

The built-in 60W power amplifier can

drive both low-impedance

loudspeakers, or 100 /70 /50V line

systems with the addition of an easy-

to-fit internal option.

As with all new products in the Cloud

range, the MA60MEDIA and MA60 are

covered by the Cloud five-year

Cloud Electronics' Innovation MA60MEDIA

messages are sent via email (or SMS).

This includes a 'Black Box' message

should the amplifier fail and shut

down: the battery back-up within the

card allows it to send a final message

and its settings.

The VTX-WM1, like the VTX amplifier

range, is covered by the Cloud five-

year warranty, guaranteeing

complete peace of mind.

Detailed features include of the

system include optional Ethernet

interface for Cloud VTX power

amplifiers that allows remote

monitoring of amplifier status from

any computer, anywhere, operability

with and from any web browser - no

dedicated software and network

necessary - simple and intuitive user

interfaces etc.

Additional features include monitors

internal temperature, signal level, PSU

status, protection circuitry and fans,

compliance with all amplifier rear

panel control settings, real-time clock

for event logging and automatic

email or SMS text alert on pre-

defined fault condition.

warranty, guaranteeing

complete peace of mind.

In detail, features include four-

input mixer-amplifier with

integral 60 W mono power

amplifier; built-in digital music

player supports MP3 and WMA

files at all standard data rates/sample

frequencies; gain trims on all inputs;

electronically-balanced mic input; 3.5

mm jack input (LINE 2) for MP3 player,

laptop, etc; overall HF & LF EQ

adjustment; short-to-ground access

connector or VOX-triggered paging

on mic input; selectable LINE 4 priority

over other music inputs; usic Mute

control input (NO or NC) for interface

to emergency system, and 2U half-

width (9.5") rack mounting unit.

New VTX-WM1 Monitor Card:

Sheffield-based Cloud Electronics has

launched the VTX-WM1 web monitor

card - a web server Ethernet option

card option for Cloud's new VTX

power amplifiers. The VTX card hosts

its own website providing monitoring

and surveillance information about

the amplifier's condition and status -

which can be viewed from any

remote location at any time using any

computer (or PDA, smartphone, etc.)

via its normal Internet browser

application. With no further software

necessary, the VTX card is the simplest

and lowest-cost option available.

Passwords and criteria are established

at point of installation. Monitoring

options span load monitoring, input

level monitoring, signal level

indications, temperature and level

controls and all user configurable

settings. Alarm warnings and status

our technical and customer service

groups encounter, Hugh Sarvis,

WorxAudio Technologies' CEO and

Director of Engineering, commented

on the company's new video

offerings. "By making these videos

easily accessible, existing and

prospective customers can visit the

WorxAudio Technologies or YouTube

websites and quickly get the

information they require. Since we're

also making these materials available

for portable media players, our

customers can even view these videos

while they're in the midst of

assembling a system should they

encounter questions," he said and

added, "our new video production

and photo suite enables us to

respond to customer requests with

informative information that

provides our customers a truly

'hands-on feel' for the information

they require. I'm confident these

materials well prove very beneficial."

The new WorxAudio Technologies

videos are readily available and are

posted on YouTube (http://

www.youtube.com/worxaudio), with

links from the WorxAudio site.


Some 35 km to the northwest of Pune - on the Paud-Kolwan-Pawna Road - away from the

hustle and bustle of an overtly urban life, is a very sedate and sprawling campus on the right

with some specialised markings. A typical school of thought (of a visionary) strikes the mind

as one reads Chinmaya Vibhooti Vision Centre, with a feel of an exalted spirituality ranting

the air. The Vision Centre - even as it practically manifests the vision of the great Guru -

demonstrates a fine harmony between physics and metaphysics. It's a spiritual experience

guided by technology. An SS report.

The Chinmaya Vibhooti Vision Centre

near Pune is one of many campuses

that the spiritual institution has set up

all over the world. However, it stands

out from the rest with its distinctive

characteristic. While the sprawling

campus is dotted with several purpose-

built structures hosting various spiritual

programmes of the institution, cresting

them all is what the institution calls the

'Chinmaya Jeevan Darshan.'

Created as a monument in memory of

Swami Chinmayananda with an

objective of spreading the knowledge

about the spiritual guru, his life,

Guiding Spiritual ExperienceChinmaya Vibhooti Vision Centre

vision, teachings and

works, the structure

and its integral

elements make up a

truly monumental

effort that takes

devotees, tourists and

people in general

visiting the venue

through a very

sophisticated spiritual

experience by means

of a fascinating audio

and video

technology. The beginning of the spiritual guidance:Front Desk with the GuidePort system

• INSTALLS •


The visitor experience here is guided

and governed by what they call the

'GuidePort' system, an innovative

audio transmission system from

German audio major Sennheiser.

Installed and integrated by Sennheiser

India, the system transmits audio

content directly to the visitors in the

chosen language based on the visitor's

location within the venue. The system

comprises a GuidePort receiver, a

headset and an identifier, besides a

software system that synchronises all

these components. The visitors are

given the GuidePort receiver and the

headset at the front desk, and their

preferred language is set. Though the

technology allows for multilingual

audio transmission, it is currently done

only in English.

"We are trying to incorporate Hindi

and Marathi into the GuidePorts,"

informs Neeraj Bhai, site incharge and

general manager at Chinmaya Jeevan

Darshan. "It takes time to create

equivalent content and style, and

matching audition in regional

languages, but we hope we will have

them soon," he says adding, "our

efforts are also on to get

separate content for children

on the lines of what is being

played now. The idea is to

make the content lighter so

that they can understand it

easily, and do not feel it

heavy or incomprehensible

and lose interest altogether."

According to him, there are two

aspects to the whole exercise. One- to

demonstrate what made or

transformed an otherwise ordinary

individual into an extraordinary

visionary and spiritual master to

inspire millions of people across the

globe and a spectrum of generations;

two- to create an opportunity for the

young and modern

generations - who,

apparently, know little about

Chinmayananda - to

understand and experience

the exalted bliss that

Chinmaya's teachings

characterise.

The Experience

The monument is a combination of

large domes and semi-pyramidal

structures from its exterior appearance

which is again a symbolic format.

Once inside, what attracts one

immediately are large murals or wall

paintings in each of the enclosure. The

front desk itself is adorned on either

side with huge mural of 'Om's as if to

preset the ensuring spiritual

experience inside. The visitors are led

inside through several squarish halls

adorned with large murals on both

side, and a kiosk at one corner. All the

halls are uniformly designed in a

combination of bright golden yellow

and red interiors with yellow surfaces

providing background to the murals

while red surfaces provide background

for entry and exit routes. The ceiling is

The exhibits at Chinmaya Jeevan Darshanalso comprise a wax statue done by a personwho is reportedly associated with Madame

Tussad’s Museum. There are some morestatues that are made of moulded

polymer-based material.

The path of guidance: Entering the Chinmaya Jeevan Darshan

Exhibition of spirituality with art and acoustics technology

• INSTALLS •


One among many domes is special in thesense that the disciples of Swamiji havecarefully codified his preachings into 108

musical renditions around a central theme.It is a mix of audio and video aimed attaking the visitors through a musical

journey with Swamiji's spiritual messages.

again done in uniformly patterned

squares in red and snuff themes. The

thematic lighting is done in such a

fashion that it accentuates the visual

experience in tandem with the audio

experience while standing in front of

the murals.

The murals are significant in that each of

them indicate one aspect of the

Swamiji's life. There is a story

associated with each of the

murals which is played through

the headsets the moment the

visitor enters the 'audio zone'

of that particular mural. This is

all done automatically, without

the user having to press it on.

Each story runs for about 4-5

minutes in a very conducive

and mellifluous audio so that the visitors

can take the essence of the message

being conveyed in the story even as

they comprehend the depiction done in

the mural. If the visitor continuously

keeps walking from one mural to the

other, the audio being played through

the headset also keeps changing in

tandem with the mural the visitor is

passing in front of.

For one, this is similar, in one way, to

the audio experience created at

Akshardham Delhi where the 'Boat

Ride' programme comprises sequential

audio playback while visitors pass from

one exhibit to the other through the

artificial river meandering through an

artistic cave. However, there are no

headsets and audio receivers involved

in the Boat Ride event at Akshardham

as the audio playback is done directly

through the discretely installed

speakers around each exhibit. The

boats are equipped with sensors which

activate the audio system everytime

they pass from in front of the exhibit

and the audio corresponding to the

exhibit is played through the speakers.

In Chinmaya Jeevan Darshan, the sensors

(identifiers) are fitted into the floral motif

below each mural. A receiver zone is

created around each identifier, and when

the visitor moves into that zone, it

synchromises with the GuidePort system

and the receiver so that the relevant

audio or video is played.

More, the GuidePort system

takes the audio(visual)

experience at Chinmaya

Jeevan Darshan one step

further in that it integrated

display-kiosks installed at

different points all through

the monument. These kiosks

are loaded with both audio

and video clippings that

speak about various aspects

The ceiling design -in tandem with the interior concept

The spritiual technology on demo: Neeraj Bhai of Chinmaya Jeevan Darshan explains the kiosk-multimedia functioning(observe Swamiji on the monitor); (right) the GuidePort system in close-up

• INSTALLS •


of Swamiji's messages and sermons on

diverse subjects that are played back

once the visitor moves into its sensor

zone, and chooses his/her choice.

Explains Neeraj: "For example, there

is a channel called 'Ask Gurudev'

which contains various types of

questions that people have asked

Swamiji in the past, and Swamiji's

answers to the same. When the visitor

touches the touch-screen monitor on a

particular question, Swamiji's

answering video appears on the

monitor screen while the relevant

audio is played through the headset.

Likewise, there are many questions

and answers, some of them include

news clippings too.

"They all are carefully selected and

structured into the system so that any

inquisitive visitor can find most of his/

her queries answered either in audio

or video," says Neeraj.

GuidePort system is programmed in

such a way that it also plays silent

audio in places where absolute silence

is required. Another interesting

feature of the GuidePort system is that

upon exiting the venue, if any visitor

forgets returning the system at the

front desk, it starts beeping in just a

few minutes.

The Technology

The GuidePort system, though

remotely similar to the Akshardham

Boat Ride event, innovative in its own

right and is a first-of-its-kind install in

India. Explains Sennheiser India

representative: "Globally, Sennheiser

has done many challenging GuidePort

projects. The Frida Kahlo museum in

Mexico city, Mexico, the Augsburg

Mozart House in Germany, and Ferrari

museum in Italy all stand testimony to

the experience that the GuidePort

system creates. The install at Chinmaya

Jeevan Darshan, though first in India,

is equally unique and impacting."

It is actually programmed for four

types of audio- Hindi, English, music

only and dialogues conveying ideas

and vision of the Swamiji. It

accommodates up to 42 locations or

'zones' set up across the complex, and

divided between the mural exhibits

and kiosks. There are

• 23 Zones for stored information

(Currently in English, with

flexibility for Hindi & Marathi)

• 14 Zones for direct audio

broadcasts from the interactive

multimedia kiosks (video screens)

• 2 Silent zones to trigger to mute

programmes before two statues of

Swamiji

• 1 Zone at the beginning to start

programmes 3 and 4

• One or two additional identifiers

along the way to trigger the

continuation of those two

programmes. Two additional

identifiers included

• A provision for two identifiers to

trigger the alarm

With the automatic functionality, the

triggering action is performed by a

device called an Identifier. The identifier

broadcasts its identity and gives

instructions to the receiver that each

visitor has. Once a receiver enter an

identifier's range, it will either play a file

Contd on page SS-35The GuidePort system components,working behind

A demo of many a communication: Art, technology, mysticism, and life and mission of Swamiji

• INSTALLS •


The dazzling finale of the Chinese 60th founding anniversary celebrations that was organized

at the famous Bird's Nest (Beijing National Stadium) in the Chinese capital recently presented

was like a continuation of what it had been during the Opening Ceremony of 2008 Olympics

held at the same venue. For, the spectacle involved massive moving stage, suspended

performers in the air, and a blitz of theatrical techniques. It was a new audio visual treat in

operatic style. An SS snapshot.

The Bird's Nest stadium came alive once

again recently when it hosted the

brand new production of Puccini's

famous opera Turandot as part of the

Chinese 60th founding anniversary

celebrations. The much-anticipated

show directed by Yimou Zhang - who

was stupendously supported by a

creative team that worked for the

Beijing 2008 Summer Games' Opening

Ceremony - was actually a

contemporary rendition of an ancient

fable. However, the most fascinating

factor of the whole presentation was

the employment of advanced visual

technology that turned the epic into a

dazzling visual sensation, besides being

an aurally captivating experience.

'Olympic' Operaat the Bird's Nest

Playing central to the whole

extravaganza was the visual solutions

leader Christie's Roadster S+20K DLP

projection systems.

Directing this opera for the second time,

Zhang injected multi-media technology

to recreate a different presentation as

compared to the one he staged for

Forbidden City in 1998. At Turandot's

press conference, Zhang said that the

production demonstrated similar visual

concepts not seen at last year's Beijing

Summer Games ceremonies and that it

represented a continuation of his dream

and passion for the prestigious sporting

event. In Turandot, Zhang also

deployed a "moving" stage and

suspended performers in the air with

cables; theatrical techniques that were a

hallmark of last year's Games and which

were used again to produce a unique

effect.

After a stunning and glitch-free

performance at the Beijing 2008

Summer Games, Turandot's leading

creative team, including lighting

designer Sha Xiaolan, selected Christie

projectors as their main visual solution

for the opera. Wincomn Technology

Development Co. Ltd., one of

Christie's most prominent partners in

China, provided a total of 32 Christie

Roadster projectors for the event.

Emulating the "Chinese ink painting"

• INSTALLS •


display at the Games, these projectors

screened abstract images and

animated content onto a 1,000-square

metre, 40-million pixel backdrop

screen. This complemented the

leading characters' performances on-

stage. The five Chinese ink paintings

by renowned artist Song Xiaoming

portrayed the five opera scenes.

What made the Bird's Nest version

'modern and Olympic-flavored' was

exactly this giant backdrop upon

which various images were projected.

These images included horses

galloping while Timur reminisced

front stage about his past, a giant

moon during the execution scene and

a giant gong that Prince Calaf strikes

to enter the riddle contest.

Against this screen that is 17.5 meters

high by 52 meters wide is the moveable

silhouette of a palace. In the center was a

square frame that moved forward,

bringing with it the emperor and his

throne. Two platforms on the stairs move

horizontally, meeting at the center.

"During the Beijing 2008 Summer Games,

we presented a new image of China to

the rest of the world, using the most

advanced visual technology for the Bird's

Nest," said Sha Xiaolan, Turandot's

Lighting Designer. "Now, we have

adopted these creative technologies and

turned one of the world's greatest operas,

Turandot, into an unforgettable

experience that celebrates our nation's

founding. We've had an excellent

working relationship with Christie and

Wincomn since the Beijing 2008 Summer

Games. We were pleased with the

performance of the Christie projectors as

well as the Christie support team, who

worked with us to meet all of the

stringent visual and technical

requirements of this operatic production."

"We're extremely pleased to have

participated in this significant

production, which celebrated the 60th

anniversary of our nation's founding,"

said Tony Chen, president, Wincomm

Technology Development Co. Ltd. "This

is yet another memorable moment after

the stunning display at the Beijing 2008

Summer Games' ceremonies. The

Christie Roadster S+20K projectors once

again demonstrated their versatility by

meeting the critical requirements of the

large-scale theatrical production,

Turandot."

Lin Yu, vice-president, Christie, Asia

Pacific, commented: "China has always

been an early adopter of cutting-edge

technologies. The hugely successful

opening and closing ceremonies of the

Beijing 2008 Summer Games are a

testament to China's innovation and

creativity in presenting world-class

staging events. Zhang's production of

Turandot is a combination of China's

ancient culture and the latest visual

technology, rendering an operatic

presentation with a modern twist.

We're extremely happy to work with

the Beijing 2008 Summer Games'

creative team once again and together,

we look forward to offering more

visual feats to the rest of the world."

With a budget of RMB120 million (17.6

million USD), Turandot featured a cast

of about 1,000 performers and more

than 4,000 sets of elaborate costumes.

Following its premiere, the production

is tentatively scheduled to deliver

approximately 30 performances in 20

cities around the world.

that is stored in the receiver or 'listen' to

an antenna channel to play a live feed (a

soundtrack from a video or multimedia

kiosk). The identifier's range of action is

adjustable and can be as little as 50 cm in

diameter or big like an entire gallery.

The technology also allows for guided

tours where people can form small

groups and one guide speaks to all of

them at once," informs Neeraj Bhai.

"However, we have not yet incorporated

this." Hopefully they would do in the

months to come as they are already into

their efforts for audio in local languages,

and purpose content for children.

In all, the GuidePort install at Chinmaya

Jeevan Darshan comprised a total of

• 240 receivers - model GP EK 3200-5

• Five button receivers with 20 hours

of storage capacity

• Chargers

• PMX60 neck band headphones

• Lanyards and one extra set of ear

muffs per headphone

According to the Sennheiser

representative, there were no

challenges for them to realise the install

as per the brief and specs evolved. That

they possess the expertise to do such

innovative installs, and the venue was

also designed in tune with its

requirement, there were no big

challenges to deal with. There were, of

course, some logistic challenges and

the fact that monsoon delayed the site

construction.

Acoustically too, there were no

challenges at all, since the audio is

transmitted through Sennheiser

headphones which are known for

their acoustic quality.

"GuidePort from Sennheiser is about

experiencing, not just about

listening," says Sharmila Sahai, MD,

Sennhesier Electronics India Pvt. Ltd.

"GuidePort is a unique personal audio

touring system that makes every visitor

feel as if the venue was built

exclusively for them," she says,

adding, "with information that one

controls and transmits wirelessly from

a central location, one can customize

tours, presentations, live events in

virtually any environment- indoors or

outdoors. All to give the visitors what

they value most- freedom."

According to the Sennheiser India

chief, the advantages with the

GuidePort are many. Users have the

flexibility of going around in the

venue without following any fixed

route. They feel comfortable with the

lightweight Sennheiser headphones

for complete freedom of movement.

That the components are robust, they

offer outstanding operator

convenience. They are intuitive as

well as simple. Information can be

customised for different types of

visitors.

Over all, the Chinmaya Jeevan

Darshan truly manifests the life and

vision of the great spiritual guru. It is a

fine combination of spirituality, art

and technology.

...contd from page SS-33Chinmaya Vibhooti Vision Centre

• INSTALLS •


Miss World 2009 which returned to South Africa recently for the second year running brought

a new glamour to the event, not just in terms of beauty to the pageant but also in terms of

the technology glitz employed to present the spectacle. Staged at the Gallagher Convention

Centre, Johannesburg, the event offered a whole new experience to the viewers at the venue

as well as those watching on television worldwide. An SS Snapshot.

The Miss World contest for the second

time in the running had the same

technical combination working

behind the scenes. It had again united

the design team of Tim Dunn (lighting

& visuals) and Dewet Meyer (set), who

were challenged to produce a vibrant

visual and scenic environment with a

distinctly African flavour as a dynamic

backdrop for the world's highest

profile beauty pageant.

It was recorded by SABC and

broadcast live to 80 of the 112

'Miss World' in New Glamour

participating countries, for the first

time going to the US, India for both

Hindi and English channels and China

via CCTV4, reaching an estimated

viewing audience of between 1 and 2

billion.

Dunn showcased Robe lighting's

newest lighting digital and moving

light innovations with nearly 300 Robe

intelligent units on the rig, so there

was plenty of headroom for visual fun

and invention. True to form, he

pushed technical and imaginative

boundaries in presenting a world class

event.

Gearhouse South Africa delivered the

full technical production package

involving 4 companies spanning 9

disciplines - lighting, sound, AV, LED

screens, media, structures, staging,

rigging and power - in an operation

overseen on site by project manager

Eyal Yehezkely.

The elegant set

was a 45 metre

wide by 38 metre

deep spherical

structure inspired

by African jewels,

circled by two

architectural rings.

These were

painted white to

maximise the

lighting effects,

with the forestage and other areas a

combination of white and greys.

The front steps below the 29 x 5K

fresnels used for key lighting were clad

with printed PVC for background

contrast to the contestants when on

camera. Surrounding the whole

structure was a white PVC cyc.

The new Robe products used included

72 ROBIN 300s - Spot, Wash & Beam

fixtures - which are small and very

Gearhouse projectmanager - Eyal

Yehezkely

Lighting designerTim Dunn

Set Designer -Dewet Meyer

• INSTALLS •


powerful. Twelve new ColorBeam 700E

ATs were a real result - "Incredibly"

bright, and ideal for funky camera-

candy effects and chases.

Dunn worked 12 DigitalSpot 3000DTs

into the design, keen to build on last

year's experience and expand the

enormous creative scope of these

digital moving projectors, used for

liquid video effects traversing the

whole set. This year, the rig contained

42 Robe REDWash 3?192 LED wash

fixtures, known for their smooth

homogenised lightsources and now

40% brighter than the original

versions launched last year.

He also used 72 of Robe's most

powerful current moving lights, the

ColorSpot and ColorWash 2500E AT.

Fifty small spheres were positioned

around the rings, internally lit with

Anolis Ark-Link 3 RGB LEDs, delivered

at short notice by Robe's South

African distributor DWR, who also

supplied the new Robe lights to

Gearhouse.

Dunn ran all the lighting on a

grandMA full size console working

closely with lighting director High

Turner. Marcel Wijnberger and Chris

Grandin from Gearhouse Media

created playback video content for the

onstage LED screen and DigitalSpots,

stored on an MA media server,

triggered from the console. The same

content could be run through 114

pixel mapped i-Pix Satellite LED bricks

embedded in the set surrounds.

Playback video, plus logos, stings and

show graphics appeared on the central

LED screen, 10 x 5 panels of

Lighthouse R16 supplied by LEDVision,

output via a Barco Encore screen

management system operated by

Gearhouse AV's Craig McGinn. He also

received multiple camera and EVS

feeds from SABC's OB truck to output

to two 8 x 4.5 metre side screens, each

fed by a pair of double stacked

Christie 18K projectors.

For Jako de Wit from Gearhouse

Audio, it was a relatively

straightforward set up, requiring

precision and good coverage, for

which they flew main hangs of 8 L-

Acoustics V-DOSC cabinets a side, each

with 3 dV-DOSC downfills. Seven

single dV delays covered the raised

audience seating areas.

Great teamwork - technical and

creative - between all working on the

event ensured the delivery of yet

another visually spectacular

production of Miss World from South

Africa, setting a real benchmark for all

subsequent events.

Miss Gibraltar, Kaiane Aldorino was

crowned Miss World 2009, with Miss

Mexico, Perla Beltran Acosta, and Miss

South Africa, Tatum Keshwar, the

second and third runners up

respectively.

• INSTALLS •


The 31st annual edition of Loerie Awards was held recently in the South African tourist city of

Cape Town. The major element of the Loeries Festival - anecdotally considered the coolest,

best and most anticipated party weekend for media professionals in the southern

hemisphere - had all the glitz and glamour that an event of its size and scale are associated

with. Playing central in the whole gig was Gearhouse South Africa who supplied technical

equipment - rigging, sound, lighting, video, media, power and backline. An SS report.

After a hotly contested pitch between

Margate, Johannesburg, Cape Town

and Sun City, the Loeries Committee

this year decided to move the awards

to the Mother City and to give the

event a high glamour, red carpet feel.

Themed 'Feed your Ego', the 2009

Loeries poked fun at the sometimes

egocentric aspects of the ad industry.

The two nights of Awards were staged

in Cape Town's Good Hope Centre, a

6000 capacity theatre venue, and

Gearhouse was working for

production company H-Factor, who

created the production design for the

event. The first night's Awards were

related to print media and

communication design, and the

second to TV, radio and digital/

Glitz of AV at Loerei Awards

• INSTALLS •


electronic. Both were recorded by

SABC for broadcast.

Technical production was by Steve

Collins and the project was managed

on site for Gearhouse by Richard

Blamire and co-ordinated in the

office by Cape Town branch manager,

Charl Smit. They worked with a site

crew of 45.

Gearhouse also supplied equipment to

the pre-show reception and after-

party area in the Good Hope Centre

foyer.

The 45 metre wide staging concept

was devised by Heloise Fourie and

Andrew Shelly of H-Factor and

implemented by Leon Erasmus from

Cape Town-based LEG Studios, to

resemble a giant, abstracted PCB,

complete with five projection screens.

Lighting

Designed by Phillip Chames, the

lighting rig was partially flown and

supported by various elements of an

extensive ground support system. This

was installed to help get points and

scenery supports in exactly the right

places, and to boost the available

rigging facilities, with some points also

suspended from the venue's roof.

The requirement was to light both the

stage - which was action-packed with

Awards presentations, guest bands

and DJs - and the audience for TV and

live enjoyment.

The lighting was distributed between

20 sections of trussing hung above the

stage and auditorium, ranging from

10 to 60 metres in length.

Chames used 70 moving lights - a mix

of Martin MAC 250s, 2K Profiles and

Washes and Robe ColorWash 700E ATs.

The generic rig included Molefeys and

5K fresnels used for front key lighting

from above, together with E/T/C

Source Four profiles. Bars of 6 PARs

were dotted all over the audience

trussing. There were also 18 Atomic

strobes onstage and 24 i-Pix Satellite

LED 'bricks' for set illumination.

This was all run by Chames using a

Hog iPC console, running in Hog3

mode.

Media & AV

Gearhouse Media's Chris Grandin

collaborated closely with show

producer Andrew Shelly from H-Factor

to edit and produce a smooth flowing

animated media stream for the two

Awards shows. This process started a

good nine months ahead of the event.

Once the set design was completed,

Grandin decided on the kit and what

This year, the Awardswere projection orientated

with some LED - areversal of the concept forthe 2008 event. Two wide

rear projection screenswere installed at the backof the stage, next to oneanother, measuring 12

metres wide by 6.8 highand 8 metres wide by 6.8metres wide, with areasmasked by various set

pieces.

• INSTALLS •


would work best with the screen

configurations.

This year, the Awards were projection

orientated with some LED - a reversal

of the concept for the 2008 event.

Two wide rear projection screens were

installed at the back of the stage, next

to one another, measuring 12 metres

wide by 6.8 high and 8 metres wide by

6.8 metres wide, with areas masked by

various set pieces.

About 50 square metres of Lighthouse

R16 LED panelling was integrated into

the set as digital scenery, and another

three 4.5m x 4.5m projection surfaces

were asymmetrically positioned to the

sides of the set.

The content - including special logos

and Loerie idents and Awards stings

was supplied by two different agencies,

juju (for Friday) and Wicked Pixels (for

Saturday) under the creative direction

of H-Factor and The Loerie Awards.

Juju also collaborated with the artists

to produce graphics for the bands for

both nights.

Grandin used an AV-stumpfl Wings

platinum multi-Display system to

complete all the editing and

compositing. On site, 6 outputs were sent

from the Wings to a Barco Encore/Screen

pro 2 set up controlled via the Encore,

operated by Craig McGinn. Camera ISO

inputs and a mix from SABC's HD OB

truck were also sent to the Encore.

The screens were fed by a total of 7

Christie projectors - two HD 18Ks, 2

16Ks and 3 8Ks.

Audio

Sound was designed by John Griesel,

and featured left and right dV-DOSC

hangs of 12 elements each, with 8 dV-

SUBS on the floor. Revil Baselga looked

after monitor world - which utilised 14

L-Acoustics coaxial 115XT HiQ wedges

and a Yamaha M7 console, with another

M7 for FOH. The 2 consoles were linked

via an Optocore digital multi.

The mics-and-stands package included

6 channels of hand-held Shure UHFs

and 6 channels of beltpacks.

The DJ booth was kitted out with two

Tecnics SL1200 turntables and a pair of

Pioneer CDJ1000 CD players, with a

Pioneer DJM800 mixer, and Gearhouse

supplied a generic set of backline that

was used by all the bands. Guest artists

included Jay Panik, Goldfish, The

Rudimentals, Mannenberg All Stars,

Lira and Mix n Blend.

Gearhouse Power used a combination

of house power and two 300KVA

RandAir generators to power the

production.

Reception/Foyer

This got the party started during the

pre-show gathering and was also an

immediate after-party area for all

attending the two nights of Awards. For

the stage, Gearhouse supplied a Turbo

Flashlight sound system and Soundcraft

MH4 console, and another backline and

DJ set up. Lighting included 12 moving

lights and generics. Sound was run by

Darryl O'Connor and lighting by Hilton

Carelse.

Long Street After Party

For the real party enthusiasts, the

celebrations continued with official

Loeries Festival after-party area in

Long Street, which was pedestrianised

and taken over between 9 p.m. and 4

a.m. both nights, incorporating several

key restaurants and bars.

• INSTALLS •


REVIEW

Broadcast India 2009 was held from

29-31 October 31, 2009 at the

Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai.

Into its 19th year, and and building

on the momentum generated over

the past few years, the 2009 edition

proved to be an even more

prestigious, and bigger global

platform for the film, television and

infotainment industry than ever

before. This despite the last year's

recession having its clear bearing on

the market sentiment for industry

shows.

Tipped to be the biggest showcasing

platform in the country and south

Asia for media and broadcasting

industry, the event this year had

over 500 companies from 31

countries as its exhibitors, spread

over a sprawling 60,000 square feet

area. The dynamic buzz that spread

across the market in the run up to

the event about the event and the

market spurt had brought

significant number of new

exhibitors which was a big plus to

the event.

The three-day event included two

days of technical sessions on

October 29 and 30 that deliberated

on diverse issues impacting the

industry. The topics covered

comprised panel discussions and

workshops on IPTV, mobile

solutions, digital cinema, High

Definition, newsroom automation,

content management distribution

and delivery, content consumption

and business of gaming apart from a

host of topics that are regular every

year.

As for the tradeshow, it was clearly

bigger than ever. VTI showcased P2 and

Avccam format from Panasonic, top of

the line, multi standard HDTV EPF

Hitachi cameras and cost-effective

digital video solutions by Datavideo.

Harris demonstrated Videotek compact

monitor series for testing signal

integrity across all DTV broadcast signal

formats up to 3 Gb/s in a half-rack,

energy-saving design. Vizrt introduced

versions of artist animation and

visual effects creation design tool,

content pilot template-based

graphics system, and multi-channel

branding software.

Benchmark showcased the latest

version of the scratch digital process

solution as well as the scratch

stereoscopic 3D workflow. Genesis/

AJA displayed: Ki pro-production

and post unified, a tape-less video

recording device connecting to a

wide variety of professional HD with

hardware conversion capabilities

including unifying of different

formats. Avid launched media

composer, version of the Avid DS

and Interplay 2.

Sennheiser India represented Georg

Neumann GmbH, Berlin studio

microphones, K + H studio monitors

The technical sessions Delegates at one of the seminars Vistors at the tradeshow


EVENT CALENDAR

2010April 12-15

NAB ShowLas Vegas

www.nabshow.com

April 18-20Palme ME

Dubai, UAEwww.palme-middleeast.com

June 3-5Palm India

Mumbaiwww.palmexpo.in

June 9-11InfoComm

Las Vegaswww.infocommshow.org

June 15-18Broadcast Asia,

Singaporewww.broadcast-asia.com

July 23-25Cinema TodayChennai, India

www.cinematoday.in

July 21-23Palme Vietnam

Vietnamwww.palme-asia.com

August 23-26BIRTV

Beijing, Chinawww.birtv.com

September 10-14IBC

Amsterdam, Hollandwww.ibc.org

September 12-15PLASA

London, UKwww.plasashow.com

October 21-23Broadcast IndiaMumbai, India

www.broadcastindiashow.com

November 17-19Infocomm Asia

Hong Kongwww.infocomm-asia.com

NovemberNational Symposium

on AcousticsRishikesh, India

www.acousticsindia.org

2011FebruaryBES Expo

New Delhi, Indiawww.besindia.com

and installed sound, besides Sennheiser

Communications A/S' headsets that are

meant for PCs, offices and call centres.

ARRI displayed the new ARRI digital

camera body. Various ARRI accessories

including the MB-29 matte boxes and

the Controlled Lens Motor CLM-3 were

also on display. ARRI also presented its

innovative new Led Pax panel kits.

Cineom represented Grass Valley with

their K2 Solo and T2, the new

generation intelligent DDR and their

entire range of Broadcast Equipment.

Black Magic Design/ da Vinci Resolve

and Revival showcased GDC

technology and Real D's 3D Cinema,

and Editshare's two new ark models.

Monarch Innovative Technologies Pvt.

Ltd. showcased the Mario award

winning Virtuoso series enabling

broadcasters to deliver sophisticated

presentations. S.R. Electronics

displayed Penelope 2 perf. and 3

Perf. reflex camera suitable for

digital post and Chrosziel products.

Apple's audio and video products

were displayed on the stands of

Unicorn Infosolutions Pvt. Ltd.

Daxco Digital brought digital film

recorder, Definity from CCG and

golden-eye digital film scanner

from Image Systems.

Stereovision showcased Arri, Kino

flo, Dedo, Airstar, Gekko, Kish

Optics, Spectracine, Schneider

Optics, Movie Intercom Lighting

tools, Photoflex, Losmandy, GFM,

Mathews grip, Nebtek, Century

Optics, and Pag orbitor.

In all, Broadcast India 2009

reinforced itself as the region's best

show for the broadcasting industry.

NSA

Stalls

Sandy Media Modi Digital

R & S Electronics Philips Lighting

Sonodyne Sennheiser


REVIEW

The National Symposium on

Acoustics 2009 was organised from

26-28 November 2009 at the

Research Centre Imarat, Hyderabad.

The three-day conference was

jointly organised by the Acoustical

Society of India and Research

Centre Imarat. The RCI - which

functions under the Defence

Research and Development

Organization under the Defence

Ministry, became part of the annual

acoustics symposium programme

by the ASI for the first time.

The Directorate of Environmental

Test Facility (ENTEST) - an integral

part of the RCI playing a critical role

in research and development in the

field of vibro-acoustics - played

host to the three-day convention.

Given the defence organ's

commendable work in its chosen

field, the theme of the symposium

was rightly decided as 'vibro-

acoustics of aerospace structures.'

The ENTEST has developed 160 dB

high intensity acoustic test facility

which caters to the qualification

requirements of all missile projects.

It has indigenously developed key

elements for establishing 170 dB

acoustic test facility. World-class

shock and vibration test facilities

are established apart from other

environmental test facilities for

testing different categories of

missile systems.

In accordance with the host

organization's core competence and

the theme of the event, NSA invited

original paper contributions relating to

different disciplines falling under the

domain of vibro-acoustics, besides the

those with generic applications in

acoustics. The major areas for the

papers included:

• Physical and engineering acoustics

• Applied acoustics

• Ultrasonics

• Random vibration and signal

processing

• Quieter technologies

• Acoustic signal processing

techniques

• Noise and vibration measurement,

analysis and control

• Thermo acoustics

• Vibro-Acoustics

• Speech, hearing and music

• Medical and bio-acoustics

• Active noise and vibration

control techniques

• Indigenous development of

acoustic equipment

• Rotating machinery

• Health monitoring

Several enthusiastic young and

professional acousticians presented

papers during the convention. The

event had attracted acoustical

community from across the country,

and the delegates included

professional acoustic practitioners as

well as academicians from reputed

research institutions.

NSA 2009November 26-28

National Symposium on AcousticsHyderabad, India


'Clubbing'EntertainmentMost people presume entertainment industry

in India to be majorly movies and retail

outing. The discerning outing community,

however, thinks and acts otherwise. For

them, it is the clubbing (and pubbing)!

Though still of a comparatively lesser platter,

this GenNext outing activity is gradually

grabbing bigger ground across the country.

Pursuing that with perseverance and

unswerving approach is Pune-based Akash

(Devraj) Sethi.

SS - Coming from the traditional

background you had, it's a little

unusual that you chose to be a

clubbing professional. How is this?

Where exactly you feel the

seeding took place for this career?

AS - Aah! I can say it started

somewhere when I was around 15.

Soon after schooling, like any other

adolescent, I used to mingle with boys

and girls; we would often party with

some mix of amplified sound. I just

grew curious to know what makes the

sound box or the amplifier sound like

that. I continued to study the sound

box at every partying time as seriously

as I partied and began to grab a bit or

two about what makes a sound box

sound good, if not great. Once people

got to know the skills I was

developing, they would call me to

connect their systems, or even get a

wire right to make their audio sound

good. It soon became a passion, and I

realised I could make a profession out

of this. My electronics education did

contribute immensely to capture the

nuances of getting the sound right. By

1992, when I set up my first concern

Audio&Aux - as a symbol of my

passion for the activity - I was a self-

taught DJ in my own right.

Though I gave up that in 1994 to

pursue my next level of academics, my

passion for 'club' sound continued to

grow which saw the coming up of

Laxmichand Traders and then ADS 25/

7. A diploma, a bachelors and a

business administration degree in

industrial electronics, saw me elevate

as a technology professional to

provide equipment and knowhow to

a range of entertainment venues in

Maharashtra, Goa and beyond.

SS - I presume the journey wasn't

all that rocking from when and

where you began. Could you

please elaborate on the

challenges, thrills and chills of

this journey?

AS - Aah! It was indeed tough. It was

clearly a taboo to party as it would

divert your from academics and

socially-acknowledged living terms.

Obviously thus, I had no financial

support for acquiring skills in the field.

I was compelled to seek technical

education, and from there on, it was

all academic burden that kept me

away for a good time. There had been

a great deal of family emotional push

too to pursue education rather than

Coming as he did, from a very orthodox family, Akash practically built a profession and

business out of nothing in industry terms, and what was considered a taboo for a

traditional system. Yet, he made it, and put a stamp of his own. Today, Akash Sethi (AS) -

a multi-faceted entertainer that he is - is a like a phenomenon in Indian clubbing industry.

SS, for a change, talks to AS, its First Person this time, to know how exactly it all

happened and opened a new entertainment chapter in India. Excerpts:


indulging in 'tabooed things.'

However, I worked overtime, and took

financial help from friends and well-

wishers to buy my first DJ mixer and

auxiliary equipment. I had to do a lot

of goodwill service too to gain name.

It had all the travails before I made to

what I think I am for.

SS - Pune has become your

professional base by default, or

you made it so looking at the

potential of the business in the

city?

AS - Well, Pune is a great melting

bowl. It's one of the biggest historic

cities in India with multiple riches-

traditional tenets, cultural events,

academic excellence, IT prowess and

industrial strengths, and an aware

human activism with transcendental

pursuits. The city is home to many

singers and dancers of repute, and

breeds an aspiring generation. To add

to this are performers of various kinds

from all over the world keep visiting

the city. So, it is obviously one of the

most potential places to seek

professional excellence.

On the other hand, Pune is my home

by default, having had all my

childhood and basic and higher

education in this city itself, besides my

professional passions. The city,

therefore, nurtured both my bringing

up and my professional skills. So, it is

just finding everything together at

one place.

SS - Has the clubbing activity in the

city contributed to your growth or

vice-versa? To what extent?

AS - I would say it is more of the city's

potential which appealed to my senses

and we both grew together. To put it

more methodically, the incredible

growth of hospitality industry in the

city, complimented by the explosion of

IT sector and the 'GenNext' traits have

all contributed to the clubbing activity

in the city. We often get so buzzed up

that we hardly get a respite, attending

to client needs. With any programme

of some significance becoming a

celebration, Pune provides one of the

best grounds for this kind of activity.

Having said that, I must also say - at the

risk of sounding self-conceited - that I

strove to add value in the best way

possible to the clubbing activity in the

city, and beyond.

SS - How dynamic you consider the

clubbing in Pune?

AS - It is growing- at an incredible

pace. What it was a few years ago is a

distant past from what it is today. And,

what it is today will be the same from

what it would probably be few years,

if not few months down the line.

There are at least half-a-dozen

clubbing or DJing programmes every

evening in the city. This alone can

indicate how dynamic it is going.

Akash Devraj Sethi, or ADS in short, is

an interesting proposition altogether.

Unassuming as he might seem to be,

ADS characterises a very intriguing

stuff so much so that he acronymed

his name into one of his clubbing

concern with a '24/7 DJ Studio' suffix-

meaning its services are available 24

hours a day! It caters to the needs of

professional and upcoming disc

jockeys with supply of equipment for

practice, recording and remixing etc.

Then he also has 'Dev Generators'

that complements the ADS 24/7

services, and other businesses with

supply of gen sets.

Entertainment: ADS 24/7That he has four inter-related businesses

running under his stewardship and keeps

him occupied '25 hours a day' isn't

enough, he nurtures many a hobby that

seem poles apart. A Gold Award holder

from the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme for

physical recreation, outdoor and

mountaineering skills, he is one of the

very few Indians qualified to lead climb a

5-10 American grade vertical rock face.

"Mountaineering isn't sport for me, it's a

form of philosophy," he says, and claims

having trekked the mountain ranges of

Kulu, Manali, Vashashist, Leh, Ladakh,

Spiti Valley and Zanskar etc. An able

motorist that he states to be sounds

veritable in his claim of taking second

rally position at the world's highest

motorable road Kardungla Pass in

Himachal Pradesh, organised by HP.

He is also a pursuant of philately and

art, besides being an animal lover.

Intriguingly enough, ADS sounds

deeply spiritual, when he claims to be

a regular at all the Kumbh Melas and

visited four Dhamas, five Prayags and

12 Jyotirlingas, and even Yogic, when

he claims to be a practitioner of

Kriya, Hamsa and Hatha Yogas.

How does ADS do all these things?

It's as intriguing as it is incredible too.


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Sonodyne SS-19,21 Sound response.sonodyne.com www.sonodyne.com

The next issue of SS is a Summer Special promoted at Cinema Today and Pro Sound & Light, IndiaThe advertisement timeline is 15 April 2010. Email: [email protected]

SS - Clubbing, or 'DJing,' so to say,

is not an 'Indian' trait, generically.

How do you look at the clubbing

dynamism in the country as

compared to other countries/

markets in Asia, or the West?

AS - Aah! You have not partied in

Pune- hence this assumption. I don't

think it holds good.

It may not be right to generalise

specific cases, particularly when it

relates to Pune and partying. Not only

the city's evenings pulsate with

drumbeats and trumpets

accompanying world-renowned voices,

DJs and young crooners from the city

have enthralled party communities the

world over- Dubai, Germany, Canada

USA etc. People here are tech savvy

and are thoroughly exposed to the

global developments and they love

modern living. May be, yes, there are

some traits that are popular outside

East or West that we have not adopted,

but that by no means discounts the

clubbing activism of this country, or

this city in particular. We have owned

the global trends and we have

influenced them too.

SS - How do you look at the kind of

equipment brought into clubbing,

technical expertise available, and

related awareness among the

owner-operators ?

AS - First the equipment- it is first

class, as good as anywhere else. May

be there are a few exceptions of some

extravagant clubs somewhere. But

Indian club genius is no less. And it is

going from strength to strength. All

the world famous clubbing or rental

brands like EV, Dynacord, QSC, OHM,

HK Audio, Martin, NEXO and

FunktionOne are all here.

Technical expertise may not sound to be

abundant, but sufficiently available.

One only has to find the right solution

provider and performer(s) for one's

typical setting. It is just that simple.

When it comes to owner-operator, I

strongly believe they know what they

want. They sometimes appear very

demanding that they even know the

specs of the setting they intend to set up

and want exactly that. They are aware

of the brands and their relative capacity,

and want the best in the world to rock

their spaces. So, it's all a mix.

SS - How do you look at the

clubbing industry in India as such,

in comparison with the advanced

Far East or the West?

AS - Exactly what I said just now. The

only difference is that those markets

are saturated while Indian market is

growing, and beginning to explode.

SS - What strengths & weaknesses

do you see in the industry? How

would the weaknesses be

converted into strengths?

AS - AS There is immense scope of

growth and excellence- only if one

considers entertainment industry as an

industry, and not just as

entertainment. Being considered as an

industry gets certain strengths which

are not otherwise possible. There is no

dearth of talent and enthusiasm, so

those strengths are already there.


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