UK - Switchcraft has launched a brand new range of molded audio patch cords suitable for digital and analogue applications. Made using highly flexible 110ohm, low-capacitance, low-loss cable, the new cords are available in eight colours and 10 lengths from 30cm up to 300cm. Terminations include 6.35mm (long frame), TT/bantam and twin TT/bantam jack plugs.

Metallic shells are used between the rubber boots and the nickel-plated plug bodies to ensure high levels of shielding and strength, and the moulding process provides protection against dust and moisture.

(Sarah Rushton-Read)

USA - High End Systems has released its newest version of software for the Catalyst Media Server - the product which fuses lighting with digital media. Catalyst Pro v3.2 now offers more features and functions, including six layers of digital media for real-time rendering, with full effects capabilities on each layer. (The previous v3.0 offered four layers.)

New digital media libraries have also been added, with graphics specially enhanced for optimum projection performance. For the first time, Catalyst now features SDI video input for real-time video capturing and is shipping with SCSI drives.

High End Systems chief technology officer Richard Belliveau says: "The addition of SDI input makes the Catalyst more valuable in the audio-visual industry." Catalyst has won numerous industry awards, and is being specified on concert tours, in corporate presentations, on televi

Germany - HK Audio will be launching three brand new products at PLASA 2004 (12-15 September). An eagerly-anticipated addition to the German manufacturer's Cohedra (Coherent Dynamic Response Array) system is the CDR 210 F direct-radiating 2 x 10" flyable subwoofer. Based on the acoustic characteristics of the Cohedra CDR 210 Sub subwoofer, the CDR 210 F has the same basic shape as the CDR 208 S/T mid/high units and can be flown with the same rigging hardware. The enclosure, sloped by 2.25° on top and bottom, allows for the curving of flying bass arrays, enabling up to 20 CDR 210 F units to be mounted directly on the flying frame above the mid/high units. Alternatively they can be flown as a separate bass array or to serve as the basis for ground-stacked Cohedra mid/high units using the Cohedra stacking frame (see below). For transportation, two CDR 210 F units fit into one m

UK - Beacon has introduced its Digigobos series 5-9. Featuring looped clips the Digitalgobo files may be incorporated into a derivative work such as a live performance, film, video, broadcast, multimedia, advertisement, internet, presentation, or print project. Hire operations can rent them to their end users as part of a RADlite or Catalyst system.

Series 5 and up are also stand-alone DVD's with all clips looped, plus a looped clip that contains all files on the disc, which can be run from a normal domestic DVD player.

For HighEnd Catalyst, RADlite systems or Martin Maxedia as well for mediabackgrounds or videoeffects there is a DVD Rom with clips in PAL format 720x576 PhotoJPEG codec as basic files.

Four different formats are available on the discs: PhotoJPEG (mov) -MotionJPEG A (mov) -Cinepak (avi) & MPG1 352x288 and feature 20 royalty free looped clips. Resellers in UK a

UK - Cadac is celebrating 20 years of dedicated design for live sound applications this summer, with its extended product portfolio including the all-new M16 Remote Mic Amp, and the production D16 Digital Input Mix Matrix, alongside the S-Type Compact Live Production Console.

The M16 remote mic amp is a direct response to market demand for a high quality remote microphone amplifier for seamless interoperation with all marques of analogue and digital console. Designed to address live, broadcast and recording market requirements, the M16 integrates directly with Cadac's new D16 Digital Input Matrix, and up to 16 M16 units can be controlled within a single system. A remote control option is available, via the Cadac RM16 Remote Control Unit, or via Cadac's SAM software. The M16 demonstrates high headroom throughout the whole system, as well as an extended response frequency, say Ca

UK - Avolites will feature production models of all its lighting control products at PLASA 2004. The newest Avo products - the eDMX, the ART 2000s stand-alone dimmer and the D4 Desktop were seen in prototype at PLASA 2003.

The Avolites eDMX system transfers DMX data across a Wi-Fi radio link - completely removing the need for DMX data cables. eDMX units are easily addressed and user configured, either as transmitters or receivers, allowing the fast set up of 'Point-to-Point', 'Point-to-Multipoint' or 'Multipoint to Multipoint' DMX Data Transmission Systems. Each transmit/receive pair of eDMX units relays data for one DMX universe at full speed, with ranges of up to 1km.

The deployment of eDMX is totally user definable - one per light, one per pipe or truss, or one just one to overcome the front of house data leap. A big advantage to rental and production companies is that any

UK - Shure Distribution UK, exclusive distributor of Shure, QSC Audio, Phonic and Sound Devices, will be exhibiting the latest audio technology from each of the said manufacturers at the forthcoming PLASA Show. Shure will present its new SLX Wireless Systems, ideally suited to installed sound applications and working bands, delivering superior audio quality in an easy-to-use and quickly configurable package. Offering Shure's patented Audio Reference Companding technology, along with an innovative set-up featuring automatic synchronization, SLX supports up to 12 compatible systems per frequency band (country dependent).

From Phonic will be the new MU range of compact mixers, ideal for a variety of applications with a great combination of features and with competitive pricing, say Shure Distribution. Also on show will be Phonic's new RoadGear range - a fully integrated mobile soun

UK - Tryka L.E.D. will be exhibiting its popular L.E.D. luminaires and controllers at this year's PLASA, with some new additions to the range. Debuting at the show are the Module 144 Flood - a powerful colour-changing floodlight with 144 LEDs - and a 110V version of the Modulation Driver, designed to facilitate control of Tryka's fixtures in countries with 110V voltage, such as USA, Canada and Japan. Also new is a hand-held controller, which allows users to remotely colour change and control Tryka units.

Not shown at PLASA before are the LinkLED Optic - adding the benefit of a choice of optic lenses to this flexible lighting system, the Module 1 Flush and Module 1 Dome. The latter two IP-rated luminaires contain a single high-brightness LED in respectively a flush and dome enclosure.

Tryka L.E.D. can be found on stand N77.

(Lee Baldock)

UK - Switchcraft, the manufacturer of interconnection products for audio and broadcast professionals, has launched a space-saving patchbay fitted with audio and video jacks. Using a standard 19" 1U patch panel, the new patchbay is suitable for analogue and digital installations and contains 48 TT/bantam jacks and 16 pairs of mid-size video jacks that have a bandwidth of 3GHz. Designed for long life, the audio and video jacks are both rated to 30,000 mate/unmate cycles. Audio and video patch cords are readily available and can be supplied in eight different colours and 10 lengths, from 30cm up to 300cm.

(Lee Baldock)

Denmark - Martin Architectural's has introduced its new Flat panel speakers, aimed at generating ambient audio in a multitude of commercial applications. Easily mounted in or on walls and ceilings, Flat offer high quality audio reproduction in an innovative, slim speaker construction, which the company says manages to seamlessly integrate sound with interior design. A collection of stock themed designs is available, or custom designs to match your concept. Users can also print or paint directly onto the Flat panel surface itself.

Based on NXT technology, Flat panel speakers are a flexible, plug-and-play sound system with 1-8 channels of audio. Sound is generated by vibrating a plain panel surface resulting in audio radiating in all directions. This room-filling effect makes Flat panel speakers the ideal solution for any public space where even sound distribution is a must.

Co

UK - Martin Professional will head to the PLASA Show with an array of exciting, new products including a media server that elevates and expands the creative use of digital lighting, and a flexible wing extension for the popular Maxxyz lighting console. For the club/DJ market there is a new promotional projector and flower effect light, as well as a new portable but powerful smoke machine. Jem Smoke will present an updated version of the industry standard Jem AF-1 fan, as well as an update of the industry's most versatile low fog generator.

The Maxedia Digital Media Composer, which includes integrated DMX control, provides full control of both lighting and video elements, boasting a number of advantages over other digital media servers, including up to a maximum of 20 layers simultaneously, 3D effects with unique real-time manipulation, programming and playback without the use of

UK - PLASA 2004 will see the first UK appearance of the new 3-way, high output line array system that combines two of Renkus-Heinz's unique technologies. The system made its European début on the Stevie Wonder-headlined Molde Jazz Festival in Norway last month. The STLA/9 is the lightest 'full size' self-powered line array module available, say Renkus-Heinz. With 139dB peak SPL broadband per module, the STLA/9 can handle the largest sound reinforcement applications - yet the self-powered version weighs in at under 200lb (90kg) per cabinet.

The new internally tri-amplified cabinet builds on the success of the company's initial line array offering, the PN102/LA, and uses many of its technologies. The low frequencies are handled by two high-powered 12" woofers, whose horizontal spacing assures horizontal pattern control down to as low as 200Hz.

Renkus-Heinz's CoEntrant Dri

UK - At last, start-up DJ's can enjoy the luxury of Denon design and build pedigree with a nifty little tabletop device that will meet all their MP3 (as well as CD) requirements. Denon knew an entry-level product was feasible for the first time after adapting the template of the hugely-popular DN-S5000 into the feature-rich (and keenly-priced) DN-S3000. With the DN-S1000 they have achieved their objective, reducing the footprint of this portable beauty to a mere 226mm x 92mm (inc feet) x 215mm, while still retaining advanced MP3 functionality.

In addition to its starter appeal, the DN-S1000 is sufficiently well-specified to be considered as an add-on by seasoned turntable DJs, who feel they are ready to straddle the different formats. It all adds up to a package with an astonishing performance to weight/price ratio - and when paired with Denon's brand new 2-channel DN-X100 battl

USA - Elation Professional's new UV Wash is an ultra-violet fixture designed for mobile use and rentals. Weighing just 11lb (5kg), the UV Wash is more lightweight and transportable than traditional black lights, due to the use of a compact fluorescent UV lamp instead of the typical gas discharge lamps, which require a heavy transformer to operate.

"Through the years, black lights have remained one of the most universal special effects for club and stage use - and they keep getting better with new, improved features," said John Lopez, national sales manager for Elation Professional. "Now, with the UV Wash, you can achieve great ultra-violet effects without having to lug around an awkward light with a transformer that weighs a ton, thanks to its compact fluorescent UV lamp."

In addition to using a fluorescent UV lamp, the UV Wash is rugged and durable, with

UK - Mach speakers will show its comprehensive and innovative C-Range of speakers for installation applications at this year's PLASA Show. Co-designed by contractors for contractors, the C-Range includes the CN7, CN8 and CN 12, and has been developed for natural sound reproduction in near field applications. The series features a unique and innovative spider mount system with 18 flying points - four of which are fully adjustable allowing for total flexibility when setting the aim points in the application.

The CN series is designed for flexible and easy connection in seconds with recessed Speakon and barrier strip terminals, with easy access to all serviceable parts. The CN series combines powerful hi-fi properties with intermediate SPL levels in a compact design. Acoustical performance has been optimized with specific emphasis on elevated power levels, clarity and speech intell

UK - Following the pattern of the previous two years, PLASA 2004 will see the introduction of a new member of ETC's family of Smart Solutions products. Although the company is keeping details under wraps until the show itself, they do say that it (whatever it is!) will be extremely smart, functional and versatile . . .

Dimming will be a major feature of the ETC stand, following the recent acquisition of IES, a pioneer in sine wave dimming technologies. IES' products provide silent dimming for concert halls and theatres and will become an integral component in ETC's total lighting systems.

ETC's own Sensor dimming now benefits from the new Control Electronics Module (CEM+), adding the functionality of a network and a graphic user interface. Visitors to the show will be able to see how Sensor CEM+ receives and manages Ethernet control signals and two DMX512 inputs, controls dimm

Australia - ARX Systems has released the new AV-DI, the latest addition to its AudiBox range of precision tools, designed to perform essential professional audio functions in an ultra-compact, flexible package. The new AV-DI stereo audio-visual active direct box is ideal for interfacing any consumer stereo audio signal (especially notebook computer sound cards) with the balanced inputs required for professional sound systems.

System interface is via dual RCA or stereo mini-jack inputs and dual balanced XLR outputs. There is a 20dB pad to tame hot signals, plus Phantom or 12V DC power options. Permanent soft audio ground network prevents ground loops starting, providing pristine audio quality, say the company. The AV-DI is housed heavy duty all-steel chassis finished in matt textured powdercoat, with hardwearing epoxy screen printing and slip-resistant rubber pads. Security featu

UK - PLASA 2004 (12-15 September) will see the UK show debut for the Ethos Array from Logic System. After its preview at Frankfurt earlier this year, the system is now in full production and will be the centrepiece of the Logic stand at PLASA. The Ethos Array is composed of the VA vertical array enclosure which combines with the complementary B2 bass and SB2 sub bass cabinets.

The show will also see a major reorganisation of the Logic System product range. Existing key products from the LS and LM series will be regrouped under the Ethos umbrella along with a new bass range that will replace all existing bass options. The streamlined Ethos range aims to cover a broad range of the requirements of the pro audio industry with a compact range of products. Ethos will be sub divided into four sections - VA (Vertical Array), B - A (a range of bass options to integrate with full-range Lo

UK - MEDC Ltd, the manufacturer of the Next Two range of loudspeakers for background music, voice alarm and background music applications, will be launching new loudspeakers at PLASA 2004. The new products are the WS range of cabinet loudspeakers and the MC8 range of ceiling speakers. Development of these new products have focused on visual appeal, ease of installation, competitive pricing and performance.

The WS range is a 6/10W 100V line loudspeaker with true first and second stage installation with a plug connector. A stainless steel bezel to further enhance its aesthetic appeal is also available as an optional extra. This unit can be used for VA as well as PA applications.

The MC8 is a 8" 100V line ceiling speaker available in both T (for PA applications) and FT (Firesome suitable for BS5839, part 8 compliant installations) which offers a clean flush fit appearance an

USA - American DJ has introduced two new strobe lights - the Energy One and Energy DMX. The 200W fixtures are built to be extremely road-worthy, say the company. Both are lightweight - a mere 4.5lb (2kg) - and come with a durable, high-tech plastic case that protects the units from damage during transport, setup and teardown. The difference between the two strobe lights is that the Energy DMX - as indicated by its name - can be operated with a DMX lighting controller.

(Lee Baldock)

UK - At the forthcoming PLASA show, Alcons Audio will show a complete new product range and highlights of its current line-up. Seen in prototype form at last year's PLASA show, this year the production model of the LR16 pro-ribbon line-array module will be on the show. The recently-launched LR16B, double-15" NeoDymium driver bandpass supplement, will join the LR16.

The LR14, Alcons' ultra-compact line array module, featuring the patented RBN401 pro-ribbon driver, is designed as either an ultra-compact line array system, or as an under-fill for the LR16. It has a dispersion pattern of 120° x 15°, and its 800W peak power handling offers a similar dynamic response to its bigger brother, the LR16.

Also at PLASA, a sneak-preview will be given of the company's new Q-series - a complete new product range of modular line-source array columns, featuring all-new pro-ribbon transd

UK - Smart Sound Direct reports that Galaxy Audio's replacement Neolite S5N-8 driver is now fitted as standard in the Hot Spot HSVC and HSRG monitors, PA5X140 powered PA system and PMCB Contractor Series speakers. Offering the same power handling capacity (100W RMS @ 8 ohms/200W max) and frequency range (150Hz-18kHz) as its predecessor, this new, lightweight Neodymium 5" driver retains the same clarity, power and reliability, but at a fraction of the previous weight, say the company.

The S5N-8 incorporates the company's patented Super Cool ferrofluid cooling technology to reduce distortion and power compression - and at 13.8oz (0.39kg), it's two thirds lighter than the original.

(Lee Baldock)

UK - Projected Image Digital is a 'one-stop' solutions-based company providing digital media server hardware and software, digital content, training and programming services. At PLASA 2004, the company is showcasing several new products from the increasingly convergent worlds of show lighting and video.

From IRAD, developers of the RADlite digital media server, PID will show myRAD software, an entry-level introduction to the RADlite family and a low-cost alternative for creating visual effects via DMX controllers. myRAD is ideal for use in clubs, theatres, smaller venues, studio and arts spaces and site-specific environments wanting to incorporate video-based graphics and imagery into their design projects.

PixelMAD is an Apple MAC-based system enabling video playback to be input to DMX devices (e.g. lighting fixtures), dramatically reducing programming time for producing high

UK - Sound Leisure, a name traditionally associated with jukeboxes, will show an array of futuristic digital AV products at this year's PLASA Show. As well as offering audio and flat screen video technology, Sound Leisure has harnessed the technological possibilities of touchscreens and transducers to create interactive displays utilizing existing materials such as glass windows, walls, or wooden panels.

The Versatile Video System (VVS) can be used simply to play music, but by attaching a number of screens, the system allows you to simultaneously play different music and video sources in different areas.

Bubbles are eye-catching acrylic spheres, available in a number of acid colours and in various screen sizes (6.8" to 30" diameter). They can house either speakers (Boutique Bubbles) or TFT display screens. Bubbles are cost-effective, easy-to-fit and look great hangi

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