USA - History is often made at the annual Grammy Awards ceremony and this year was no exception, with legendary 80-year-old Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell performing on the live broadcast for the first time in her decades-long career.
The historic performance, also featuring Brandi Carlile, Jacob Collier, Blake Mills, Allison Russell, Lucius and SistaStrings, was captured with a variety of Sennheiser microphones, including Carlile and Mitchell’s own custom gold SKM 6000 handheld transmitters with Neumann KK 205 condenser capsules.
Also on the awards show, which was broadcast live from the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on 4 February, rapper Travis Scott performed a medley of songs from his latest, Grammy-nominated album using an SKM 6000 with a Sennheiser MD 9235 cardioid dynamic capsule, a combination that his monitor engineer, Justin Hoffmann, calls “a game-changer”.
Mitchell has won 10 Grammy Awards since taking home her first in 1970, for her second album, Clouds. The album includes Both Sides Now, one of Mitchell’s best-known songs, which she performed on this year’s broadcast. Prior to the broadcast she won her latest Grammy, for Best Folk Album, for Joni Mitchell at Newport, a live recording from the 2022 Newport Folk Festival, an event she first played in 1967.
Mitchell accepted the award with Carlile, who, as the album’s producer, also won a Grammy - her eleventh.
Working with the Grammy audio team, Sean Quackenbush, Carlile’s front-of-house engineer for the past eight years, put
UK - Event production and audio-visual Installation company, Spotlight Sound has announced that Ashton Gold will join the team as account manager.
Ashton comes to Spotlight Sound from The Lion Inn in Boreham where she was the event planner.
“I will be fundamental in liaising between the client and technicians from the planning to execution of their event,” says Ashton. “My role means that the technicians can fully concentrate on the production of the event and I can make sure everything else runs smoothly.”
Sam Dimond, director of Spotlight Sound adds: “We’re really pleased to welcome Ashton onto the team. Her experience in planning and running events will be fundamental to the ongoing success and growth of Spotlight Sound.”
Spotlight Sound produces a spread of events including the Willow Ball and London Football Awards. Last year they provided the technical event production for Olly Murr's wedding to Amelia Tank on Osea Island in Essex.
UK - As part of a major £2m refurbishment which has seen a complete renovation of the 200-year-old Grade II-listed former Post Office building, Leeds Bar & Grill has substantially boosted its in-house sound reinforcement.
By augmenting the existing PA with a potent RCF solution, Audio Visual One (AV One) has ensured that the atmosphere is now in keeping with the operation’s new hybrid bar/restaurant trading policy.
AV One was appointed after having previously carried out work for operators, Individual Restaurants, in other units.
Company owner, Stephen Bailey turned to RCF’s Compact M series when supercharging the interior, selecting four white M 12 multipurpose two-way full-range speakers for the newly defined bar area, along with a low-profile S8015LP 15in bandpass subwoofer, designed specifically for discreet under-seat placement. These are powered by a pair of RCF IPS 1.5K (2 x 750W @ 4Ω) power amps.
To augment the existing wall speakers in the restaurant they added a further pair of concealed S8015LP subs, driven by an IPS 2.5K (2 x 1250W @ 4Ω) amplifiers. The RCF inventory was supplied by Leisuretec.
Stephen Bailey himself designed the multi-zone sound system - incorporating bar, restaurant, mezzanine and the outside area. He confirmed that this solution was designed to fit the brief of reproducing a range of inputs, from background music and DJ-sourced content, along with bands and gospel choirs at weekends.
“The RCF speakers were recommended by us as they delivered the right amount of SPL for the budget, while
USA - Martin Audio US has set two training days to ensure system users and designers are properly equipped to get the best outcome from their implementations. They will learn how to achieve full optimisation, control and monitoring of performance on a variety of Martin Audio systems.
The two-day programme will take place on 13-14 March at Frost Productions, 6 Empire Blvd, Moonachie, NJ 07074 and the trainer will be product support engineer, Joe Lima.
Day one will examine in depth Martin Audio’s proprietary software platforms, Display 2, Display 3 and Vu-Net. The following day will see attendees explore the MLA Mini, in groundstack and flown configurations, before diving into networking and connectivity, and concluding with an XE system overview.
Joe Lima comments: “As the demand for Martin Audio products continues to increase in the US market, training on systems like DISPLAY and VU-NET is not just beneficial but vital. With our products gaining significant traction and recognition within the marketplace, ensuring that professionals are well-versed in the intricacies of our software is paramount.”
Registration is at https://martin-audio.com/events/march2024training
USA - Meyer Sound has launched an expanded education programme for 2024, coinciding with the celebration of its 45th anniversary.
“As the pace of audio technology accelerates, Meyer Sound is strengthening its commitment to education programs, which we see as investing in the future of the industry,” says Robyn Bykofsky, Meyer Sound’s training & education manager. “Our training programmes are aimed at all experience levels, with science-backed in-person and virtual course content that fits the way people learn today.”
The 2024 programme builds on the success of the company’s revamped 2023 initiatives, which engaged more than 1,800 students through 50 in-person trainings around the world and through coursework in the new Meyer Sound Learning online platform.
This year, Meyer Sound is extending in-person education across the U.S. and beyond, with trainings in Berkeley, CA; Irvine, CA; Portland, OR; Las Vegas, NV; and international events in Mexico City; Hamburg, Germany; and Derby, UK. Building on the success of 2023’s pilot programme, the Meyer Sound Learning platform continues to expand its offerings, including supplemental online training materials, on-demand e-learning content, and virtual instructor-led sessions.
Meyer Sound’s collaborations with key industry players showcase the power of industry cooperation in nurturing artistic and technical excellence and advancing innovation.
In January, Meyer Sound held a three-day training at Clair Global for Metallica tour crew members and Clair Global staff, focusing on de
Europe - Sennheiser, together with existing investors, is investing 7m euros in the Norwegian scale-up business sensiBel. The company has developed optical MEMS microphones. The miniature microphones ‘enable a completely new and improved experience in application areas such as consumer electronics, automotive, conferencing solutions, and medical devices’.
"We want to grow sustainably as a company. In addition to investments in our existing business, this also includes investments in promising future fields outside of our company, providing these align well to our company and our vision," explains co-CEO Daniel Sennheiser.
Andreas Sennheiser adds: "sensiBel's innovative optical MEMS technology is clearly this type of promising emerging field. As investors, we look forward to actively driving forward this groundbreaking development."
sensiBel has developed a miniature microphone using optical technology that enables a generational shift in MEMS microphone performance, which is now sampling with lead customers. “sensiBel shares the same vision as Sennheiser and we are proud to welcome Sennheiser as investor,” says sensiBel CEO Sverre Dale Moen. He continues: “We believe an investment from such a highly recognised audio company speaks of the merits of the technology and the potential for optical MEMS technology to shape the future of miniature microphones.”
The distinctive feature of sensiBel’s technology is the use of light waves to measure the movement of the diaphragm. By contrast, conventional MEMS microphones measure an electr
Europe/USA - Cadac Consoles’ return to ISE and the unveiling of a new product portfolio, in the form of its flagship CM-Series integrated audio mix and network system, was marked by ‘strong positive industry reaction’. The ‘widespread admiration on the booth’ for the CM-J50 mixer’s premium design and advanced performance capabilities served as a catalyst for the foundation of a dedicated CM-Series distributor network.
An initial milestone on day one was the signing, at the show, of a US distribution agreement with Italian Speakers Imports Inc (ISI). By the end of day three the UK console designer had had ‘conversations’ with over 26 distributor organisations from around the world. Coming out of the show, advanced negotiations were underway with four prospective partners for territories in Europe and Asia, with preliminary discussions to be followed up with several others.
“Securing serious interest in distribution for our new product offering was the primary objective of launching at ISE, as the show provided a unique opportunity to reach a wide breadth of potential partners,” says James Godbehear, director of marketing and business operations. “Obviously there was some degree of apprehension in turning up at ISE with an entirely new product portfolio, after an extended period of absence from the market. But the immediate and sustained positive reaction the CM-J50 console inspired was beyond our most optimistic expectations.
“We are extremely pleased to have signed an agreement with ISI for distribution in the United States.
Australia - Creative Technology Australia and New Zealand opted for Data Strategy’s QC-Check to address three main needs in terms of product inspection: socapex cable testing, the safe inspection of twin-frame distribution boards, and the ability to set up the specific testing processes needed to be carried out by anyone in the warehouse.
Maintenance manager, Myles Barlow, explained that the company’s highest priority was to be able to test multipin connectors such as Socapex three-phase cables, as “there’s just no safe way to test them”.
In addition, he found that “standard PAT testers fail products that have lots of internal relay, control voltages and several limit points. They see it as a dead short when there’s actually not a problem”. So without, QC-Check there was no effective way of PAT testing products like twin-frame distribution boards or other items with ‘smarts’ in them.
Custom engineered by SES Entertainment services in the UK, Creative Technology’s QC-Check workstation was custom designed to test the various types of connectors used by the Australian production house on a day-to-day basis. The main body of QC-Check housed the larger connectors, whilst the smaller and more regularly tested connectors were situated on the workstation bridge.
Alongside industry standard connectors like tru-con, neutrik and powercon connections, Creative Technology’s two-bay QC-Check featured standard Australian 240volt sockets, and 32 amp three-phase test connections specific to Australia, known as ‘Wilco’s’.
QC-
Finland - Located in Espoo, Bodom Bar and Sauna is the headquarters of melodic death metal band Children of Bodom. Complete with poster strewn walls, red leather couches and band memorabilia, the venue recently collaborated with Genelec to create a sound system capable of handling the band’s back catalogue.
Espoo is the hometown of the pioneering five-piece who rose to fame in the late ‘90s and early 2000s. Taking their name from one of the most intriguing cases in Finnish criminal history - the Lake Bodom murders - Children of Bodom released 10 studio albums across their career, gaining them a loyal long-haired following who travelled globally to see the band perform.
They continued to tour up until their split in 2019, which was shortly followed by the passing of lead guitarist Alexi Laiho in 2020. Bodom Bar and Sauna was opened to celebrate the legacy of the band and, in true Finnish fashion, houses three on-site saunas alongside the standard bar offering, much band memorabilia.
Sound was a big consideration for the project, given that it was to pay homage to one of Finland’s most influential death metal bands, and Children of Bodom already had an extensive history with Genelec - which made them the obvious loudspeaker choice. “Eight of our studio albums were recorded in Finland and fully mixed and mastered on Genelec loudspeakers,” begins Janne Wirman, owner of Bodom Bar and Sauna and former keyboardist in the band. “It’s safe to say that about 90% of all the music we ever recorded was monitored on Genelec loudspeakers.
Algeria - The desire to improve the quality and efficiency of the technologies for post-match press conferences has seen an increasing number of sporting arenas investing in their press facilities. The recently completed new stadium in the city of Tizi Ouzou is a venue that has made this a priority right from the start, with the installation of a CCS 1000 D Digital Discussion System and an Integrus Wireless Language Distribution System from Bosch Building Technologies.
The 50,000-seat stadium is the new home of Algeria’s most successful football club, JS Kabylie, and has been built to exacting UEFA standards. This includes all the press and broadcast infrastructure and meant that a high-quality press conference solution was demanded from the outset.
The stadium called on Turkish Bosch partner Atempo to design the solution for the press conference room, along with the rest of the audio systems for the venue. The company has worked on a variety of stadium projects and understands exactly what is required to meet the intricacies of UEFA standards, while also allowing a venue the flexibility to host non-sporting events.
The stadium required a press conference solution that would offer high-quality sound and the flexibility to meet changing needs - all with a modern and stylish design. The CCS 1000 D Digital Discussion System met these needs thanks to its compact size, easy set-up and user-friendly operation, together with advanced features and versatility. Designed especially for quick, plug-and-play installation, it is a dedicated solution for sma
UK - Founded in 1943, the Cathedral Church of All Saints - better known as Derby Cathedral - is one of Derby’s most beautiful and historic sites and holds many monuments of Derby’s and Derbyshire’s past. An important spiritual and cultural hub for the city and surrounding areas, the cathedral hosts no fewer than 18 services per week plus special and seasonal services to celebrate important events in the religious calendar.
The cathedral recently turned to specialist consultant and integrator, Charles Brown of Acoustic Solutions to upgrade their audio solution to bring it into line with modern requirements. Brown specified and delivered a comprehensive point source system from KV2 Audio.
Brown is something of a reference when it comes to installing audio solutions in churches and cathedrals throughout the UK and is often the first port of call for houses of worship looking to upgrade or renew their systems. Derby Cathedral was no exception.
“The pandemic was a catalyst for change for many churches as they were forced into live streaming in order to continue to connect with their congregations,” explains Brown. “I’ve installed over 40 live streaming systems in churches across the UK as a result, and it was whilst advising Derby Cathedral on this topic that it became apparent that their current loudspeaker system was less than adequate for the job.”
The cathedral needed clarity of the spoken word and detailed, low-level playback that could be perfectly heard without over-exciting the acoustic of the building. Brown demonstrate
Italy - With his glowing bow that evokes a Jedi lightsabre, electric violinist Andrea Casta is known as the ‘Jedi Violinist’. Casta performs over 200 concerts a year that reach more than 2m live spectators. The artist has taken his music to over 30 countries and boasts a social fanbase of nearly half a million followers.
His recent tour, The Space Violin - Visual Concert, sold out in major Italian cities. He was awarded Best Performer at the Dance Music Awards in 2018 and 2022. Many of Casta’s performances are smaller, boutique events. For those, the artist has chosen a TT+ Audio System that satisfies his desire to bring the highest possible sound quality and musical clarity to his audiences while being highly versatile, portable and aesthetically discreet.
“My smaller performances were a real challenge,” said Casta. "I needed a compact and easily transportable system, capable of taking my music to my audiences with the same quality found on big live stages. And I wanted it to integrate well with the architecture of both modern and classic venues.”
He continued: "As a long-time RCF customer, I chose their new brand, TT+ Audio, and created a system with TT 515-A full-range loudspeakers and the TT 808-AS subwoofer. I’ve been using this system for several months now, and it has proven perfect for my needs, offering a timbral clarity I’ve never experienced before with a compact system."
The TT 515-A is a compact, versatile two-way loudspeaker with two 5” neodymium woofers, a 1.75” titanium compression driver and a 100° x 7
Canada - Powersoft has announced the appointment of AVL Media Group, a division of Intellimix Corp, as its new distributor and service centre for Canada.
Established more than 25 years ago, AVL Media Group is an award-winning distribution company with a mission of developing long-term, mutually beneficial, business relationships through professional products backed by excellent sales, service and technical support.
“We are excited to be represent Powersoft in Canada and we are looking forward to informing Canadian customers about Powersoft’s offerings with particular emphasis on Mezzo, the new Unica amplifier platform, and the recently announced Verso cloud gateway,” says Andrew Hope, managing director of AVL Media Group.
AVL Media Group will focus on promoting Powersoft’s products and technologies, making its customers and potential partners aware of their unique features and benefits to significantly grow the Italian audio manufacturer’s footprint in Canada.
“Powersoft’s reputation worldwide is built on quality and reliability. It is, without question, the amplifier brand that is leading the market with advanced technology and innovation for installed sound,” says Hope. “Powersoft’s amplifiers, in combination with the other brands we represent such as Tannoy and Symetrix, enhance our ability to offer complete integrated solutions to our customers.”
AVL Media Group will continue to build Powersoft’s established brand recognition by actively engaging in the market with multi-faceted awareness campaigns, webina
UK - In its 11th year, the Association of Motion Picture Sound (AMPS) winner’s presentation for Excellence in Sound for a Feature Film 2024 took place at The Rosewood Hotel, with The Zone of Interest receiving the award.
Johnnie Burn AMPS, Tarn Willers AMPS, Mateusz Stasiak and Simon Carroll were present to receive their AMPS trophies from AMPS chair Andrew Wilson, in the company of AMPS members including award group leader and three-time Academy Award nominee Graham Hartstone. James Ogden was unable to attend but will be sent his award.
AMPS’ annual awards recognise multiple facets of the sound industry; alongside supervising crew members, AMPS honours key 1st assistant sound/boom operators and supervising dialogue/ADR editors. AMPS recognises the assistants in the team as well as the HoDs, with Mateusz, Simon and James receiving trophies and being named as winners in their annual awards.
"We are deeply honoured to receive the AMPS Film Sound Award,” said Johnnie Burn. “This accolade is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and dedication that we, along with our incredible team of Brendan Feeney, Simon Carroll, Max Behrens, and everyone at Wave Studios, pour into every project. I feel so grateful to work with Jonathan Glazer on such extraordinary projects. It truly is beyond a privilege to see our commitment to pushing the boundaries of sound in cinema being recognized by my peers."
Tarn Willers added: "Collaborating with Jonathan Glazer, and Johnnie, was an enriching experience. The work was incredibly challenging but
USA - The Federal Communication Commission (FCC) approved a change in its regulation that now permits operation of Wireless Multichannel Audio Systems (WMAS) in the United States.
WMAS is an advanced wireless microphone technology designed to meet the challenges of highly demanding live performance and studio applications. Compared to conventional wireless microphone systems, WMAS offers higher spectral efficiency – the ability to transmit more audio channels within a limited block of radio frequency (RF) spectrum – as well as greater interference protection to other wireless services that share the same spectrum.
In her statement during the Open Commission Meeting, chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel pointed out, “Unless you’re in video and audio production, the odds are you haven’t thought much about wireless microphones. But they’re everywhere. […] So when a new technology comes along with the potential to improve the efficiency of wireless microphone operations, we’re going to take a second look. That’s why a few years ago we issued a rulemaking to explore this new type of technology known as Multichannel Wireless Audio Systems or WMAS. […] they can significantly improve the efficiency of wireless microphone operations […] that’s a spectrum win-win.”
Sennheiser started development of its WMAS over 10 years ago. In August 2018, Sennheiser filed a Petition for Rulemaking with the FCC requesting a modification in the bandwidth limit specified for wireless microphones by the Commission. At that time, Sennheiser demonstrated a pr
UK - Bluesound Professional has appointed Sound Technology, a Midwich Group company, to grow the brand’s reach in the UK and Ireland. The appointment takes effect immediately.
“We are very proud to represent Bluesound Professional as its unique endpoint streaming solutions are cutting edge for this industry,” says Alison Charters, business manager, Sound Technology. “The versatility of the solutions it offers will help our network of integrators grow their businesses by creating new revenue streams while also cutting costs.”
“Sound Technology have such deep roots in the commercial A/V sector with an excellent network of experienced integrators,” adds Graeme Harrison, vice-president and general manager of Bluesound Professional. “We look forward to seeing the kinds of interesting and novel installations that our products will be used in.”
UK - PLASA is running an industry-wide survey on sustainability. The association aims to understand how and if companies across the entertainment technology sector are tackling the important issue of sustainability and carbon reduction.
The survey was launched during the Member Business Forum on Sustainability and Carbon Reduction, which took place in London on 18 January 2024. However, the survey is now open to the wider industry until 29 March, in partnership with #WeMakeEvents, LSi, LIVE and PEARLE.
Even though there are no current legal requirements in the UK to implement such plans, PLASA recognises the importance of sustainability across the industry and the need for support. Therefore, the association is now conducting research to understand the current position of the industry. The data will help to inform the activities of the association, as well as future industry collaborative initiatives and membership support.
Bryan Raven, director of strategic projects for d&b Solutions and joint vice-chair for the PLASA Carbon Reduction to Net Zero steering group, says: “Sustainability is not something any company can deal with alone – suppliers, customers, freelancers and audiences need to work together. It’s not about competitive advantages; it’s about doing what is right. As an industry we need to lead the way and work together to minimise the carbon impact of ‘making events’.”
Nicky Greet, director of membership, skills and technical for PLASA, adds: “The drive for carbon reduction will impact everyone in our industry. W
Australia - The ASP4816-HE compact console has been chosen for JMC Academy in Melbourne, the final of the three antipodean JMC education facilities to upgrade to the Audient mixing desk.
Studio/facilities manager, Marcus Hernan explains the setup: “We have five studios on campus as well as numerous smaller production suites and edit labs. Each studio follows the curriculum from small bedroom style production suites with all-in-one interfaces in trimester one, to the ASP4816-HE in tri two, control surface in tri three and a larger format console in tri four onwards.”
Originally a studio lecturer at JMC Academy, Marcus has worked with them for over a decade. He continues: “Our Audient is housed in the trimester two studio as the formal introduction to analogue studio workflow. It is the centrepiece of a studio comprising a ProTools rig with an assortment of outboard gear tailored toward the demonstration and application of the basics of studio operation and recording.”
He describes how certain features of the small format analogue recording console have been helping to inspire students. “Personally, I am a big fan of the bus comp and mix processing options. They are cool additions that you generally don’t see on a lot of other (console) options. The EQ circuit is also very easy to get good results with. For our students in particular, it is great to see the excitement when they get those results so early on, often when they are quite timid with regard to real world processing, especially on the way in.”
Mainly used by audio engin
France - The newly inaugurated LDLC Arena in Lyon, boasting a 16,000 capacity, is a prominent addition to France's event venues as the largest indoor arena outside Paris. In a city already known for its vibrant fusion of history, culture, and innovation, this new, Populous-designed venue symbolises the ambitious objective of the local government to offer a versatile space that can host large crowds for electrifying sports events and major concerts.
LDLC Arena will serve as home to Lyon-Villeurbanne’s ASVEL basketball team while accommodating large-scale tournaments, exhibitions, and national and international tours. The venue opened in November with a concert from Lyon-born celebrity and comedian Florence Foresti, and it has already hosted concerts from the likes of The Arctic Monkeys.
Given the stated mission of offering diverse events under one spectacular roof, the LDLC team turned to Marseille-based integration company Snef to design and install a professional concert-grade audio system capable of reinforcing any imaginable content. Snef has a solid history of successful collaboration on similar projects, including the professional sound system installed in Marseille’s multi-purpose Stade Vélodrome. At LDLC Arena, Snef was tasked with providing flexible yet uniform coverage, throughout the audience for any sport or entertainment. In addition, the sound system needed to be compact and adaptable to different arena layouts as the form and capacity of the space changed depending on the event.
"This project was a real adventure for Lyon,” exp
France - Audio network specialist and equipment manufacturer AuviTran has announced the release of a new AxC-AES67 interface. Available from AuviTran’s network of distributors, the AxC-AES67 card is latest addition to the Audio ToolBox suite, the company’s flagship product line.
AxC-AES67 is fully compatible with AES67 and Ravenna protocols, and supports industry standard SMPTE2110, ST2022-7 Seamless Protection Switching and NMOS IS-04 + IS-05. Using one slot of AuviTran AVBx3 or AVBx7 ToolBox platforms, this interface card features up to 64 input channels and 64 output channels at 48kHz. Combined with other AuviTran Audio ToolBox cards, the reliable and versatile AxC-AES67 enables the setting up of multiple professional audio systems while seamlessly interconnecting network audio protocols.
Either operating as a flexible analog StageBox when combined with AxC-AX4M and AxC-AX4O AuviTran cards, the AxC-AES67 is the perfect fit to address complex audio systems that require interoperability with multiple protocols. AuviTran’s AxC-AES67 has already seamlessly and successfully integrated complex audio structures.
AuviTran recently completed an unprecedented triple Dante-AES67-AVB MILAN bridge at the Millennium Centre, in Lausanne, Switzerland.
The venue, hosting a high-end auditorium, partnered with AuviTran to deploy a smart infrastructure that solved complex and intricate bridging issues. The actual workflow integrates AuviTran Audio ToolBoxes and the newly released AxC-AES67 card, combined with AxC-Dante and AxC-AVB (MILAN certified) in
USA - InfoComm 2024, the largest trade show focused on pro AV in North America, set for 8-14 June at the Las Vegas Convention Centre has officially opened registration.
“InfoComm 2024 is the destination to bring together the pro AV industry - from manufacturers to integrators, dealers to end-users - to connect with each other, learn about the latest trends, and explore the newest technology,” said David Labuskes, chief executive officer of AVIXA, producer of InfoComm. “In a continuously evolving industry in a forever-evolving world, it’s critical for industry professionals to keep learning and challenging the status quo to bring forth solutions that make a difference.”
“We are excited to open registration for InfoComm 2024 and eagerly await the return to Las Vegas, a city that epitomises the heartbeat of the pro AV industry, pulsating with technology innovations at every turn. InfoComm is the hub of technological innovation and boundless possibilities igniting inspiration and exploration,” said Rochelle Richardson, CEM, senior vice president of expositions and events, AVIXA. “We can’t wait for the industry to experience the June show where we have curated a robust programme and an array of surprises that promise a memorable experience for all.”
InfoComm 2024 is sponsored by strategic show partner Crestron and supporting show partner Shure Incorporated. Registration is available at www.infocommshow.org
Canada - Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) recently announced its $350m renovation for the Scotiabank Arena, home of the Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL) and Toronto Raptors (NBA).
This multi-phase renovation will see improvements to almost every part of the venue to greatly enhance the fan experience. The work began on the Mastercard Executive Suites level along with state-of-the-art technology upgrades, which was the start of the proof of concept with the upgraded audio system.
The initial audio design came from WJHW, a global design and consultant firm, who reached out to 1 Sound to specify 1 Sound’s Cannon C4i’s in the design for the Mastercard Executive Suites, Theatre Suites, and Mastercard Lounge. The goal of the design prompted by MLSE was for the audio system to fit in with the high-end finishes and feel of the room and have an enhanced audio experience in the suites while maintaining a small form factor.
The vision was to bring directional sound from the court, ice, and other high-energy areas of the arena into the suites to create an immersive experience. The Cannon C4i’s fit the bill with their high-fidelity sound quality, extended low frequency, and only taking up a footprint on the wall of a 6-inch box. MLSE produced a full proof of concept suite to demonstrate two Cannon C4i’s and other audio-visual technology.
Branch Audiovisual, with offices in Toronto and Ottawa, was contracted for the audio installation and worked with 1 Sound Custom Shop to satisfy the need for the loudspeakers to blend in. With this option a
UK - Following on from the successful Performance Audio Showcase event at Troxy in January, Sound Technology - distributor of Harman Professional audio brands in the UK & Ireland - has announced JBL VTX A6 open house sessions at its demo facility in Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire on 5-7 March.
The A6 is JBL’s smallest VTX loudspeaker product to date, bringing flagship VTX A Series performance to a subcompact form factor. The fully passive, two-way line array is a versatile solution for small to mid-size rental houses, corporate events, theatres, clubs, houses of worship ‘or anyone who demands superior sound reinforcement’.
Hosted by Sound Technology's professional audio application team, the open house events will feature a flown stereo VTX A6 array with the accompanying VTX B15 subwoofer. Alongside listening sessions, the application team will dive into the technology, design and innovation inside the VTX Series, and demonstrate VTX A6's auto-locking rigging mechanism and suspension system - shared with the larger VTX A8 & A12 - together with the range of rigging accessories, intelligently designed transport & storage solutions and Crown VRack amplification.
There will also be demos of Venue Synthesis, JBL’s 3D acoustic simulation software. Sound Technology's demo facility also features other JBL Performance Audio & Portable PA ranges, including the VTX A8, SRX900, PRX900 and more, which visitors can hear.
Registration details are at test
USA - When officials at the Von Braun Centre, located in the heart of historic downtown Huntsville, Alabama, approved a transformative renovation project at the multi-purpose facility, the task of installing a new audio system was awarded to Verta Technologies, a pioneering force in audiovisual solutions.
Spearheaded by Christian Tuttle, principal and CEO of Verta Technologies, the company selected an ADAPTive audio system from EAW.
The Von Braun Centre has undergone extensive renovations over the past two years and sought a comprehensive update for its aging audio system at the 10,000-seat Propst Arena, home to the Southern Professional Hockey League’s Huntsville Havoc. This is in addition to EAW ADAPTive being deployed in the 1,300-capacity Mars Music Hall and the 2,000-seat Mark C. Smith Concert Hall. While Propst Arena is primarily used for hockey, all three of the Von Braun Centre’s venues can host touring productions of any scale.
“It's impressive to see ADAPTive present in both smaller music halls and large-scale arenas, demonstrating its versatility across various venues,” says Tuttle. “The Von Braun Centre now boasts one of the largest permanent installations of EAW ADAPTive under one roof in the world, showcasing the versatility of the technology across different venues on the campus.”
With a looming hockey season and a tight project completion timeline, Verta Technologies executed a rush project for the arena, receiving the purchase order in July and completing the installation with a week to spare before the first hock