Audio hardware for the event (and lighting) was supplied by top UK rental company Adlib Audio from Liverpool, a major JBL Vertec, Powersoft and dbx user. Over 85 people - representing all areas of the pro audio rental, installation and sales markets, and also including Arbiter dealers and agents - attended on both days, jumping at the chance to experience the latest sound technology in situ. Presenters included David Scheirman and Andrew Rutkin from JBL Professional in Northridge, California, and Geoff Lissaman from dbx Pro in Salt Lake City. Max Lindsay-Johnson, David Budge, David Karlsen and Dan Eades formed the Arbiter side of the presentation team.
The first day was orientated towards installed sound and the new JBL AE series of speakers, launched at PLASA 2002. AE (audio engineered) is the next generation of club/fixed installation boxes from JBL, and follows on from the successful Marquis, Sound Power and Venue series. New technology offered by the AE includes a rotatable waveguide, which makes the box ideal for space-restricted environments. The first AE installation in the UK has just been completed in Eastbourne nightclub TJ's.
Also showcased on the first day was the new dbx Driverack 260 speaker management system. This networkable device offers 2 inputs and 6 outputs and can be controlled by closed contact points. Also new from dbx was the Driverack PA speaker management system, also featuring 2 in and 6 out. This comes complete with a new, highly sensitive, feedback eliminator that works on a twelfth of a twelfth of an octave.
Powersoft's new remote control software also generated plenty of interest. This impressive product is expected to become a must-have for all installations using Powersoft amplification. Allowing full control of amplifier systems, if something goes faulty, the software sends a text message to the service engineer alerting them to which part of which system in which venue has a problem.
The seminar's second day concentrated on JBL's Vertec line array system, offering the first UK opportunity to hear the latest Vertec products in a practical environment. The three new Vertec products are the 4888 midi and the 4887 mini enclosure, and the 4881 sub. These are designed to extend JBL's line array inventory into the world of corporate events, AV presentations and theatre, as well as smaller touring and live applications.
(Ruth Rossington)
