Denmark - DPA Microphones has introduced the latest addition to its microphone line-up, the 4097 Core Micro Shotgun Microphone. Featuring the same sonic qualities as the brand’s supercardioid Choir Microphone, the 4097 Core Micro Shotgun has been optimised to pick up speech from a distance. Incorporated into the company’s new 4097 Core Interview Kit, the mic has been designed for use with a lightweight boom and windjammer. This kit is particularly useful for journalists in today’s socially distanced world as it allows users to conduct interviews from up to two meters (6.5 feet) away. It is a plug and play solution that allows users to get started quickly and employ their existing workflows, says the company. The kit features one each of DPA’s new 4099 Cold Shoe Mount, which incorporates a one-quarter-inch thread; DPA MicroDot cable; transmitter plate; lightwei
USA - Visix has released version 1.32 of their AxisTV Signage Suite digital signage software with a new Voice Recogniser Widget that turns any screen into a hands-free interactive sign. AxisTV Signage Suite users can drag and drop the new Voice Recognizer Widget (VRW) onto any layout, then set custom parameters that instruct the sign what to listen for and how to respond to requests. It can be used on single displays, banks of screens and video walls in any environment. “Clients no longer have to depend on touchscreens for interactivity, which is especially important in this time of concern about germ transmission,” says Jill Perardi, creative services manager for Visix. “Just as people got used to using touchscreens because of smartphones, they’re now starting to expect a voice user interface like they use with their virtual assistants at home. Now anyone with
UK - sunDial quad, the PLASA Gold Award-winning mains LED dimmer from Artistic Licence, demonstrates just how good the dimming achievable with an ETC Source Four Mini LED can be. Artistic Licence used its photometric lab to create a custom dimming curve for the fixture, with impressive results. The Source Four Mini LED from ETC is a miniature version of their classic stage spot. It uses a 12W LED and some clever optics to provide impressive projection, aimed at the museum, retail and restaurant markets. It has an onboard LED driver that can be controlled with mains phase dimming - as such, it is compatible with the sunDial quad dimmer. Curious to see the results, Artistic Licence trialled the Source Four using sunDial's default linear curve. The dimming was excellent, but limited to the central 70-80% of the DMX512 range. Additionally, the linear curve provides limited
USA - Obsidian Control Systems continues to expand its line of professional solutions with the launch of the NX Sync, a plug’n’play USB SMPTE timecode device. The NX Sync captures timecode in various SMPTE formats from its three-pin XLR connection and converts it to a MIDI Timecode (MTC) stream, where it can be read into Onyx or any other MIDI Timecode compatible software. Additionally, it also has the power to take MTC and send it back out as SMPTE. The NX Sync contains a powerful hardware architecture for instant processing and minimal frame delays. The NX Sync does not require custom drivers, and in addition to working with Onyx, it can be used as an SMPTE to MTC/ MTC to SMPTE device for both Windows 10 and MAC OS software applications. The device is available for immediate shipping from Obsidian Control Systems’ global distribution network.
The Netherlands - Highlite International has introduced a new addition to the DAP family: the Edge wireless microphones. DAP's Edge-series wireless microphones feature a handheld system and a beltpack system. The UHF True Diversity receiver is equipped with a clear full colour LCD-screen which makes operating the system very easy. The main feature of the Edge-Series is the Scan-feature. With this attribute the Edge receiver shows exactly which frequencies are not occupied, giving the user the possibility to choose the right frequency without having to worry about any interference. The system operates between 606MHz and 668MHz frequencies and is therefore very well suited for use across many parts of Europe. The handheld unit holds a cardioid condenser microphone and both the handheld and the beltpack are equipped with an OLED-display Communication between t
Europe - Yamaha has launched new additions to its range of professional audio products, the Rivage PM5 and Rivage PM3 digital mixing systems. The launch of two new control surfaces and two new DSP engines gives sound engineers greater choice and flexibility to deliver optimum sound in a much wider range of applications, says the company. The core components of the new PM5 and PM3 are the CS-R5 and CS-R3 control surfaces. Both feature the same fader configuration as the rest of the Rivage PM series, with three bays of 12 faders each. The combination of touch screens and selected channel controls offers functionality and intuitive operation familiar to Rivage PM series users, while also offering easy entry for users of Yamaha’s CL and QL series consoles. The commonality of fader configuration also means the same layout can be maintained when using different control sur
Germany - The VLink communication solution for RTS intercom matrix systems has become a key tool for broadcasters during the COVID-19 pandemic. The software-based virtual intercom platform has been a common part of the broadcast comms workflow for many years. However, it has become even more relevant in recent months as it has allowed broadcasters all over the world to work remotely during the international crisis, maintaining vital public information services while observing social distancing protocols. RTS VLink enables remote users to interface with their RTS intercom matrices via the Internet using a simple application, allowing a new degree of control and flexibility from anywhere in the world - including from home. “In the current pandemic, remote production is the new normal for broadcasters everywhere,” says Denis Castanet, director product management at RT
The Netherlands - The Power Of Entertainment, Highlite International’s latest campaign, is well on its way. The campaign contains several product introductions and continues with the presentation of the latest additions to the well-known Performer-series. Showtec adds seven new Performer models to the already successful Performer range. It starts with a house-light, the Performer Pendant Q6. This offers a six-colour RGB ALC LED engine with which a very broad colour spectrum can be achieved, resulting in a very high CRI level of over 90. It is very well equipped to be used in theatres, auditoriums and more. The new models continue with three Performer 1500 units, available as Q6, Tungsten and Daylight luminaires. The Daylight version has a colour temperature range between 4000K and 6500K while the Tungsten version starts at 2700K until 4500K. Controlling each unit c
USA - Point Source Audio’s CM-i family of lightweight in-ear intercom headsets has received a design upgrade. The new design - brought to market earlier than initially planned in light of the current health crisis - adds factors such as detachable earbuds for improved hygiene and accessibility to more easily customize with a user’s custom in-ear monitors. The upgraded design now features a connector common among in-ear monitor manufacturers that will allow for a much quicker change over should the user choose to personalize their headset with in-ear monitors from brands such as 64 Audio or Ultimate Ears. A further benefit of this important feature is for rental companies and venues that supply headsets for their techs. The comfort and noise-isolation of in-ear headsets are a no-brainer, but no one is comfortable sharing in-earphones no matter how well they may be c
USA - Avante Audio has expanded its Imperio Series by launching a collection of pre-configured systems designed to make the lives of audio professionals easier. Devised around specific applications and methods of deployment, each of the systems include everything necessary to get an Avante Audio Imperio PA up and running, including array modules, subs and rigging hardware. Imperio is a ‘mini array’ system that offers ‘a powerful, flexible and scalable active audio system that is ideal for installation in mid-size venues as well as for use by production companies working on one-off events or touring productions’. At the heart of the series is the versatile Imperio mid/top module, which offers a 90-degree x 15-degree dispersion angle and an integrated rigging system allowing multiple units to be connected together with splay angles of 0, 4, 8 or 12-degrees. The c
USA - Medialon has launched a new micro embedded solution for museum audio-visual (AV) control applications – Showmaster Mini. Showmaster Mini is suited to simple AV control applications and installation types. Its ruggedised and fanless small form factor makes it easy to mount where AV racks aren’t suitable, says the company. The ultra-compact design solution is available, as standard, with a reduced-feature version of Medialon Manager show control software which makes it a low-cost solution. Created for less demanding installations, Showmaster Mini can control up to 20 devices in its standard configuration, and is expandable in batches of ten devices, up to a maximum of 50 devices. Each Showmaster Mini unit measures 158 mm × 114 mm × 53.5 mm and weighs 1.2 kg. “For some installations, the requirement is for a control solution that simply needs to
France - Robert Juliat has announced the launch of Arthur, its new 800W LED long throw followspot capable of matching the lumen output of a 2500W HMI RJ Aramis followspot and delivering up to 29,000 lumens. This eagerly-anticipated move opens up the use of LED followspots into large venues such as opera houses, musical theatre and live music venues, concert and touring venues, both indoors and out, says the company. Arthur’s powerful LED engine, narrow beam angle (5.5° - 15°) and long-throw capability, ensures “invincible performances with a minimum output of 2000 lux at a distance of 40m (200fc at 130 ft), while offering premium light quality with a high CRI (>90) - an essential feature for a followspot whose main role is to shine a light on performers in the most sublime way possible”. A smooth flat beam with no hot spot is teamed with excellent gob
USA - Altman Lighting has introduced the Genesis lighting console. The desk combines physical fader and touchscreen control and provides advanced programming functionality with features such as Shape FX, Chases, Fan, and Individual Cue Timing. Additionally, the graphical user interface allows control of luminaire parameters via familiar icons, colour picker, movement targets or touch sliders. For moving light control, pan and tilt are also controlled via the touch pad adding a fine movement control for those critical focus points. The animate feature provides a simple and intuitive way to quickly create chases, sequencing, and patterned attribute control within a single cue. “Focused on giving programmers of all skill levels the operation simplicity of an instinctive console which boasts high-end features, we are very excited to be releasing Genesis,” adds P
USA/Europe - Wireless microphone developer Q5X and Shure have announced a collaboration to combine their expertise to provide “superior sound quality and security that today’s sports broadcasts require”. Together, Q5X and Shure have developed specialised Axient Digital-Enabled Q5X Wireless Transmitters that deliver the latest wireless digital technology “with unparalleled RF stability, encryption, and spectral efficiency”. “With the combination of Q5X and Shure, this is really the best of both worlds,” said Jens Rothenburger, director of pro audio marketing at Shure. “The new Axient Digital-Enabled Q5X Wireless Transmitters provide sound engineers and the sports industry with a complete solution in a superior, already-established form factor.” For more than a decade, Q5X has worked closely with professional sports leagues (like the NBA, NHL, NFL, MLB,
USA - Harman Professional Solutions has introduced the JBL Cinema Expansion Series sound systems for small to medium-size commercial theatres. The line, which includes JBL 3153 and 4253 3-way screen-channel loudspeakers, 3181F and 4281F subwoofers and 8102 surrounds is designed to cover rooms up to 85ft deep and up to 40ft wide. Harman has also debuted the two-channel, 1,300W Crown XLC 21300 amplifier, which supports Cinema Series speakers in a range of system configurations. “When we created the Cinema Expansion Series, we wanted to offer flexible solutions for cost-conscious theatre owners looking to provide a premium audio experience in every seat while maximizing their investment,” said Sunil Karanjikar, cinema product manager, Harman Professional Solutions. “Now, whether a theatre offers traditional 5.1 or more complex multichannel sound, it can offer the fi
Spain - The G7 from Amate Audio is the first in a new family of premium installation / integrator loudspeaker cabinets, designed to ‘provide compact high performance solutions, where looks and sound are everything’, in retail, hospitality, recreation, enterprise and culture application environments. A two-way system within an EN54-24 certifiable, hexagonal-form, reinforced ABS plastic enclosure, the G7 offers power handling capabilities rated at 120 W, providing for 112 dB SPL. So a lesser number of cabinets is required for any installation, operating well within their range of capability, leaving sufficient headroom for instances where higher output may be required. In addition to its Amate Audio cabinet design, features include the high-performance 6.5” carbon-fibre woofer and 1” titanium dome, neodymium tweeter, aluminium grille and hardware, outdoor ready c
USA - ADJ has announced the immediate availability of the new Focus Spot 5Z LED-powered moving head spot luminaire. Building on the success of ADJ’s popular Focus Spot 4Z, the new 5Z model takes the same LED engine and compact body, but adds additional beam-shaping tools to give lighting designers increased creative potential. As with the 4Z, the Focus Spot 5Z is built around a 200W cool white LED engine, which offers an impressive 50,000 hour lifespan. This is focused through high quality optics to allow the fixture to punch out sharp GOBO projections, in vibrant colours, that are equally suited to adding texture to a stage as they are to generating aerial effects over a dancefloor. Motorized focus, which allows for pinsharp Gobo projections over variable distance, is the signature feature of the entire ADJ Focus Series. In addition, the Focus Spot 5Z inherits the 4
UK - Harman Professional Solutions and UK distributor Sound Technology have announced immediate availability of the new AKG K371-BT professional studio headphones. The AKG K371-BT joins the previously announced AKG K361-BT headphones in the range. AKG K361-BT and K371-BT headphones are designed for mobile artists, engineers, podcasters and beatmakers who want the flexibility of wired or wireless connectivity combined with studio-quality sound. The K361-BT and K371-BT feature an over-ear, closed-back design that is precision-engineered to reproduce natural, balanced audio in exceptional detail, so users can make more confident decisions when mixing and editing. With a frequency response of 15 Hz to 28 kHz in the K361-BT and 5 Hz to 40 kHz in the K371-BT, they deliver “the deepest bass and highest highs in their class”. Both models offer the convenience of swit
Europe - BroaMan has announced that it will now offer its Multipurpose Fibre Extender for video, audio and intercom (MUX22) with 12G-SDI interfaces - to support greater resolution, frame rates and colour fidelity. The 12G addition to the existing 3G support means that BroaMan will not only continue to support 4K SDI transport formats but also routing and transport of high bandwidth data streams, such as 10G IP traffic for SMPTE 2110. Uniquely, the company offers not only single-mode but also multi-mode options for 12G fibre transport. BroaMan technical sales manager Maciek Janiszewski comments: "12G migration is our step into the future. Our customers have been asking about 12G and IP technologies, and the new hardware upgrade will allow us to meet all modern requirements; it means we can offer pure 12G-SDI, pure IP or a mixed 12G-SDI and IP transport solution.”
USA - Magmatic atmospheric effects has introduced Prisma, a range of advanced UV LED lighting products with weatherproof IP65 rating. Designed for use in clubs, EDM events, glow paint gatherings, or any production with a UV element, Prisma’s IP65 rating and fanless design mean they can be used in even the most challenging environment, says the company. Compact, lightweight and easy to handle, a variety of narrow to wide beam angles are available. Prisma combines true 365nm UV output for long and wide throw performance with the control and efficiency of LEDs. Because Prisma uses high quality, medical grade LEDs that emit UV light in the 365nm range, no visible light is emitted, meaning only the UV reactive material glows and nothing else.
Europe - Smode users are now able to benefit from improved 3D content design due to the integration of Notch Blocks within the platform. Smode combines tools for creating the optimum stage-show experience, with real-time rendering and 3D previewing. Notch is a graphics and video effects tool that gives creatives the power of real-time rendering. It has been used to create motion graphics for the live performances of artists including Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, The Brits, and numerous music festivals worldwide. Smode is an integrated real-time compositing and media server software, which allows users to change any parameter at any time. Creators can achieve an updated image immediately on screen, in the 3D simulation, or on the actual stage. Thanks to its layer-based system, creators can efficiently combine different pieces of content together to create the optimum stage-sh
USA - Lectrosonics has introduced the two newest members of the D Squared digital wireless family, the DPR digital plug-on transmitter and the DSQD/AES-3 receiver. The next extension of the D Squared wireless family platform which premiered in 2019, the DPR digital plug-on transmitter is fully compatible with the DSQD digital receiver and features a tuning range of 470 to 608 MHz (470 to 614 MHz for the export version). The new transmitter includes specially developed, high efficiency circuitry for extended operating time on two AA batteries, and offers RF power selections at 25 and 50 mW. Studio quality audio performance is assured by high quality components in the preamp, wide range input gain adjustment and DSP-controlled analogue limiting. Input gain is adjustable over a 55dB range in 1dB steps to allow an exact match to the input signal level, maximizing audio dyn
UK - Harman Professional Solutions and UK distributor Sound Technology have announced that the AKG Podcaster Essentials bundle, previously only available in the US, is now available in the UK with stock arriving this month. Designed to give podcasters, video producers and content creators a professional edge, the AKG Podcaster Essentials bundle includes the new AKG Lyra USB microphone, AKG K371 headphones, Ableton Live 10 Lite recording software, a four-part Berklee Online recording class, and a full set of audio cables including a headphone splitter. The AKG Lyra is an ultra-HD, multi-mode USB microphone that delivers pristine 24-bit, 192 kHz audio quality, with four versatile capture modes suited to a wide range of recording applications. AKG K371 headphones provide clear, detailed sound with largest-in-class 50mm drivers and a closed-back design for superb sound iso
USA - Harman Professional Solutions has introduced zoom lens accessories for the Martin ELP family of ellipsoidal LED light fixtures. Martin ELP Zoom Lenses broaden the functionality of ELP CL and WW LED ellipsoidal lights with two industry-standard beam ranges and two housing colours. Their six-lens design promises “stunning optics, providing the ultrabright output, unmatched flat projection and crisp focus of a static lens with the speed and flexibility of a zoom lens”. The lenses feature a mechanical anti-slip locking mechanism and a convenient service hatch for easy lens cleaning and maintenance. A gobo/accessory gate accommodates A/B-size gobos, and a colour gel frame is included. “Martin ELP LED ellipsoid fixtures are famous for their unrivalled luminance, output and light quality,” comments Mark Buss, product manager, entertainment lighting, Harman
