Attracting much interest was the new RR12, which saw a number of visitors to the show wanting to place orders immediately. A modular arrayable point-source system, based on Alcons pro-ribbon cylindrical projection technology, the system consists of two-way elements with a 30º dispersion in the coupling plane and a 60º asymmetrical dispersion in the non-coupling plane. Featuring a high-output 12-inch driver in combination with a newly developed six inch pro-ribbon driver, RR12 can be used as horizontal or vertical array.
The production version of the BC332 self-contained cardioid subwoofer system was also on show, which features newly-designed direct-radiating 18-inch front and 15-inch rear woofers. Utilising the same acoustic principles as featured on its bigger brother, the BC543, the BC332 features both V- and flank-venting.
Another new product which attracted attention was the Sentinel 12 amplified loudspeaker controller. The main focus with this proprietary-designed, four channel, DSP-based controller was bringing Alcons pro-ribbon sound into the digital amplification domain, while increasing the system's performance even further. Features include a four input/four output router, high-end hi-fi Class-D amplifier stages with 192kHz capability AES/EBU inputs and is AVB network-prepared. Highly intuitive control is achieved via a large, full-colour TFT touch-screen and illuminated multi-colour encoder.
"We had a very good show and received a very encouraging response from both existing customers and potential new ones, despite the economic climate," says Alcons co-founder Tom Back. "Our commitment to expanding the sound designer's toolbox is illustrated in our heavy investment in the expansion of our R&D facilities, as well as preparing to move into new premises, which are twice as big as the existing ones, and a new factory-direct presence in the USA and India.
"The results of these developments were visible on the stand in new developments, products and the sheer amount and quality of interested visitors. Our global expansion continues, as more and more pro-audiophiles are discovering Alcons' sound quality.
"Of course, the highlight of the event was the annual Alcons dinner, with Pro-Ribbon Partners and Ribbon Network members from all over the world all coming together in the embrace if the Alcons family."
(Jim Evans)
