HiQnet, Harman Professional Group's proprietary audio system configuration, control and monitoring network, offers users rapid configuration, enhanced control and comprehensive monitoring of complicated audio systems composed of products from Harman Pro brands, says the company. System Architect, HiQnet's central control software, gives users the ability to easily set up and manage large, multifunctional audio systems from a single computer, using a single graphical user interface.
The Soundcraft Vi6 large format live digital console is designed using the proven reliability of Studer's VistaTM and On-Air 3000TM series of consoles. The Vi6 uses a derivation of the VistonicsTM user interface (VistonicsTM II), with the same type of touch-screen colour TFT monitor, with integral rotary controls and switches mounted on the glass, to enable highly intuitive operation. 32 faders are mapped out in two layers, providing a 64-channel input-to-mix capacity. Up to 16 matrix outputs can be configured from a pool of 32 busses. Harman's proprietary HiQnet network system is an integral part of the Soundcraft Vi6TM console, which means that the desk becomes a central control point for a complete Harman Pro system of wireless microphones, signal processors, amplifiers, and loudspeakers.
The new JBL VP (Venue Performance) Series is described as a best-in-class powered loudspeaker system family, says the company. Providing high standards of power, fidelity, reliability and control, and numerous performance innovations, the VP Series is intended to fulfil a wide range of professional small to medium fixed installation and sound touring applications. The series of two and three way cabinets and a sub integrates proven Differential Drive transducers, a 'next generation' high frequency compression driver, and JBL DrivePack technology, developed in conjunction with Crown.
The AKG HUB 4000 Q Wireless Network Concentrator is the first HiQnet compatible AKG device. The HUB 4000 Q Network Concentrator connects AKG's flagship WMS 4000 wireless microphone systems to HiQnet. A single HUB 4000 Q permits up to eight WMS 4000 systems to be controlled and monitored simultaneously; multiple HUB 4000 Q's can be linked, allowing very large multi-channel wireless systems to be monitored and controlled with System Architect.
Crown's XTi is an all new two channel, networkable power amplifier series, comprising the XTi 1000, XTi 2000, and XTi4000 models, providing 500, 700, and 1200 watts per channel (into 4 ohms), respectively. These amplifiers incorporate many of Crowns latest design innovations, providing a world-class sounding, lightweight amplifier, featuring on-board DSP and computer control. Design features include Crown's lightweight switch-mode power supply, USB connectivity, HiQnet software, and built-in DSP to set cross-over points, graphic EQ, limiting and time alignment delays.
Also being shown at ABTT is the JBL VRX compact line array. Developed for both sound touring and installed applications, the compact JBL VRX 900 Series Constant Curvature Line Array provides the ultimate combination of performance and portability, say the company.
(Chris Henry)
