A star attraction at NAMM in January, the Starlight sound and lighting cabinet is billed as "a world first, fully integrating FOH and monitor sound and stage lighting within a pair of portable trapezoidal PA cabinets". Comprising two stand or pole mountable, two-way 12 inch or 15 inch cabinets, Starlight combines 250 watt self powered FOH reinforcement and a 50 watt powered side mounted monitor driver within each cabinet. Each cabinet features a rear panel mounted two-channel mixer with three-band EQ, and an external source monitor input and level control. Each cabinet also incorporates a recessed side slot housing six high-power LEDs with dispersion lenses. The in-built lighting controller features 13 programme, including seven static colours, fade to colour change, sound to light; brightness and speed are also adjustable.
The Horizon series mixers offer 12 or 20 input configurations. All feature twin effects DSP, dynamics processors and two way active cross-over, with the powered versions packing a colossal 2000 watts, flexibly assignable to FOH and / or stage monitoring. The new form factor features light aluminium panels and sustainable bamboo end cheeks that create a modern, elegant design with the emphasis on portability and minimum weight. The control surface is the result of a ground up re-evaluation, specifying only the necessary features and controls in order to minimise clutter and improve operability. The curved front trim panel features a concealed centre carry handle enabling the Horizon to be picked up by carried in one hand.
The Horizon also features a new generation Studiomaster mic-pre amp, incorporating ultra low noise discrete circuitry and is the only mixer in its class to feature an optical compressor on input channels. 3-band channel EQ includes mid sweep and four auxiliary sends feed the on-board effects and connections for external monitor systems. Balanced XLR and jack, and unbalanced RCA phono I/O connectivity throughout is augmented with a USB 2.0 interface for computer / digital audio player connectivity. The powered models feature twin 1000W Class D amplifiers with discrete switch mode power supplies.
In its ongoing reorganization of its distribution arrangements, Studiomaster is re-instating its distribution of the brand for the UK and Eire from its Luton HQ and warehousing facility. The new distribution operation will also encompass Carlsbro, allowing dealers and sub-distributors potential access to both brands.
Further initiatives and agreements on European distribution will be announced during and following the Musikmesse.
(Jim Evans)
