EAW announced the update of its 10-year standing KF850 Series touring mainstay, adding the latest proprietary technology and contemporary components. The resulting KF850z gains a neodymium Orbital Magnet Array HF driver offering increased surface area for better cooling and greater reliability. A new HF horn extends HF response and fidelity while minimizing throat distortion, while the MF subsystem is now based on EAW's Radial Phase Plug design used in the more recent KF650, KF750 and KF760 models. The LF section horn-loads the 15" woofer first used in the KF650z.
Two KF850z models are offered: the KF850zF for flown applications and the considerably lighter KF850zR for ground stacking. The SB850zR also updates the SB850R sub.
As of 1 March, KF850EFs, KF853Ds and KF855EFs will only be available by special order. On 1 July, they will be discontinued.
The AcousticDesign AD-S52 is a full-range, surface-mount loudspeaker with contemporary styling for multiple environments and applications, including hotels, restaurants, convention facilities, and multimedia environments. The LF driver is magnetically shielded for use near video monitors, and the enclosures are weather-resistant and paintable.
Part of the ISIS family, the QSC I-82H is an 8", 2-way, full-range loudspeaker for similar applications, while the ISIS WideLine line array speaker system is a full-range (55Hz-18kHz per enclosure), wide-coverage line-array designed for ballrooms, theatres, nightclubs, concert halls and houses of worship. RMX 505, finally, is an addition to the RMX Series power amplifier line.
Something of a co-star of the show (with the Midas Verona), the TT24 is a new 24-mic input digital mixer developed specifically for live sound applications such as clubs, theatres, houses of worship, rental companies, sound production companies and regional touring acts - plus what the company calls "weekend warriors". It's a 56x45, 24-bit, 96kHz capable digital live console with 100mm motorized faders, on-board analogue and digital I/O, full channel metering, digital recall, EQ, dynamics and effects.
Contributing to the small analogue mixer bonanza, Mackie also launched the Onyx Series complete with FireWire connectivity. The Onyx 1220, 1620 and 1640 all have new mic preamps, new Perkins 3- and 4-band EQ circuitry, full aux section a redesigned mix buss and summing amp section. Each also has a built-in talkback section with onboard mic.
Plus, the SRM 350 is a two-way active loudspeaker system claiming to bring studio-monitor sound quality to PA. The bi-amplified design, made in conjunction with EAW engineers, features dynamic bass boost and contour control.
Crest Audio, now as distinct from Crest Performance, introduced the CD Series power amplifiers. These combine linear power supply with Class D output for heavy duty cycles and sonic integrity, and are aimed at "nightclubs and high school gymnasiums alike, and every application between".
CD Series power amps all include multiple protection circuits such as Active Clip Limiting, which automatically reduces gain at the onset of clipping; Instantaneous Gain Modulation, which monitors load current to protect against overloading; Autoramp, to prevent abrupt turn-on levels by gradually increasing gain; as well as short circuit, DC voltage, comprehensive thermal management, current in-rush turn on/off transient and sub/ultrasonic input.
Crest Audio also introduced the CM Series industrial power amplifiers, designed for multi-channel applications in nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, retail stores and video conferencing systems. The 4-channel CM 2204 and 8-channel CM 2208 claim low impedance or 70V operation at the same power levels without switching. Each amplifier in the chassis will operate to rated power, regardless of impedance connected, from 4 ohm to 70V line systems. All inputs and outputs are Crest's Phoenix connectors with level controls in the rear.
There was also the HP-Eight mixing console, available in 24-channel and 32-channel frames as well as installation-size 40, 48 and 56-channel frames. Target markets for the console are medium-capacity live performance venues and houses of worship.
BBE launched the MaxCom compressor/limiter/noise gate; the Max-X3 stereo 2-way crossover, also a mono 3-way crossover; and the Max-X2 stereo 2-way crossover. Each contains the BBE Sonic Maximizer circuit, plus the Sonic Maximizer process - as used in BBE's 482i and 882i Sonic Maximizer processors. They come with a solid steel chassis and faceplate, and a two-year warranty.
Crown unveiled the all-new I-Tech Series as the new flagship amplifier series for the touring and corporate PA markets. All models are just 2U and weigh less than 28lbs/12.7kg, have rugged chassis designed 'for the road' and feature Crown's patented Class-I switching output for more power and less heat.
They have Crown's global regulated power supply, delivering full power regardless of AC mains voltage - from 120V to 277V and from 50Hz to 60Hz. Power Factor Correction (PFC) allows I-Tech to draw current from the mains more efficiently, providing more power from a single 20A breaker. The Class-I output and power supply promise the highest output voltage available, and a clearly audible difference through the speakers.
The Xs 1200 was also added to the Xs Series of power amplifiers, becoming the highest-powered model in the series. It provides 1,100W per channel into 4ohms and is designed for mobile DJs, musicians and regional tour companies.
The new SLX Wireless Systems are aimed at installed sound applications and working bands. They have Shure's patented Audio Reference Companding technology, along with automatic synchronization and support for up to 12 compatible systems per frequency band (country dependent). Features include Utilising Auto Frequency Selection and Auto Transmitter Setup, allowing the system to scan the landscape for clear channels. The transmitter then syncs automatically with the receiver frequency via an infrared link.
The bodypack transmitter works with headworn, lavalier and instrument mics and cables, while the hand-held transmitters are offered with SM58, SM86, Beta 58A, Beta 87A, and Beta 87C capsules.
Shure has also added the E3 sound-isolating earphones to its E Series in-ear earphones, designed for personal monitor systems and portable listening devices. Plus, in March, the hardwired SM86 vocal mic - the latest SM - will be made available as a wireless capsule in Shure's SLX, ULX, and UHF systems. Like the hardwired SM86, wireless SM86 capsules will have a cardioid pattern and frequency response of 50Hz to 18kHz.
It began with Midas. The very fact that Midas chose this year's winter NAMM show to mount the worldwide launch of the Verona console indicated two things. Firstly, the company's redoubtable management duo of Dave Cooper and David Wiggins will use any platform to dress up in costume and do a 'turn'. This time around, it was as The Blues Brothers, somewhat strangely but engagingly rubbing shoulders with character lookalikes from The Matrix who patrolled the ceiling - it was the Xelias Aerial Acrobatic Company, after all - even as Elmore and Jake took the floor.
Secondly, significant sound reinforcement product announcements are now as much a part of this show as they are of Frankfurt's ProLight+Sound beano - which itself grew out of the MusikMesse's MI roots. Perhaps NAMM - busier this year than for several - could begin to steal a march on the German show's pro audio pretensions, as a packed product release schedule searches for ever more outlets.
The Verona was designed by Alex Cooper (no relation), director of console development and a 20-year Midas veteran. Having worked on the XL3 and either designing or overseeing every console from the XL4 through to the Heritage range and the Venice, he agrees that console design is getting ever more refined for niche markets: "Our core market has always been mid to high-end touring," he said, "where XL3 fitted perfectly. XL4 took us above that even, and other XL products slotted in below; then Heritage updated everything and stamped its mark everywhere XL had been. We command that market so much that to expand we h
The IAG Group showed current models of Wharfedale's EVP-S, VS, LixC and Systems products, presenting them in detail to new and existing dealers to consolidate the work carried out by the reps over the past year. Newer models include the electronic-based PM System, PM mixers, MP power amps and BX mixers.
Audio-Technica's Midnight Blues range of microphones (pictured right) for vocals and instruments begat a new generation, based on the original series, with four new mics featuring high-output and low handling noise via proprietorial anti-shock engineering. Each is of all-metal construction.
The four models are: the MB1k unidirectional dynamic vocal mic; MB2k unidirectional dynamic instrument mic; MB3k unidirectional dynamic vocal mic; and MB4k cardioid condenser mic. The MB2k, MB3k, and MB4k have a soft-touch finish for a secure grip and low mechanical noise, plus a protective pouch to store or transport the mic. All models are available with an optional (15ft) XLRM cable.
The MB1k is designed for lead, backing or choral vocals, featuring Audio-Technica's 'Hi-Energy' neodymium magnet structure for maximum output and fast transient response, 'Magna-Lock' switch design for silent on-off operation, and corrosion-resistant gold-plated XLRM connectors. The MB1k also includes the AT8470 'Quiet-Flex' stand clamp and 5/8"-27 to 3/8"-16 threaded adaptor.
The MB2k is designed for amplified and acoustic instruments, with duly tailored frequency response, while the MB3k is a higher-spec vocal mic. Both also feature Hi-Energy, Magna-Lock, gold-plated XLRM connectors and Quiet-Flex. At the top of the range, the MB4k is a condenser design aimed at project or home recording.
Audio-Technica also announced the availability of an additional frequency band for its UHF wireless microphone systems and accessories, including Artist Elite and 3000 Series UHF wireless systems. T
With a mix of new blood and old hands at the company, and a big push into Europe, Furman expanded its line of Balanced Power products with the high-end IT-Reference model into the IT-Series. A variation of the IT-1220, IT-Reference has individual windings which provide total isolation for each set of outlets. It also includes unique Power Correction Circuitry which gives power amplifiers and powered speakers more powerful dynamics with a speed and clarity unattainable with normal wall power. Additionally, the soundstage is deepened, widened and focused.
The PL-8 and PL-Plus Series II Power conditioners feature Furman's Series Mode Protection (SMP) circuit and Linear Filter Technology (LiFT), comprising advanced and comprehensive transient voltage surge suppressor technology.
The Verona series has been designed by the team responsible for the Heritage 3000 and XL4, and comprises six models ranging from 24 up to 64 inputs with all the features and components associated with the brand. It has a new mic amp design with high CMR performance, and every channel offers swept 4-band EQ. The rigid chassis is built for both touring and fixed installation.
The consoles are configurable for either FOH or monitor use, the Group/Aux changeover switch allowing the choice of any combination of the aux outputs to be controlled via a 100mm fader including insert point. This flexibility is supported by the front panel Aux EQ defeat switch - when pressed, any auxes assigned pre fader will be sent pre EQ.
JBL announced the introduction of the budget JRX100 series "for musicians, DJs and other users of live sound reinforcement speakers", and anyone who might truly appreciate a new dual-angle pole socket. This allows the speaker to be mounted either vertically or with a 10° down angle - aiming for more audience and less reflective wall.
Crest Performance, a division of Crest Audio, kicked off a swathe of install products with the 4-channel, 6-input CJ/4 desktop DJ mixer. The CJ/4 allows DJs to listen to their effects on both the cue and main signal in their headphones before sending them to the main outputs.
The rotary-style CP-6210 program music mixer, an update of classic mixer designs, and its companion CP-6220 expander/crossfader, use the same components found in Crest Audio's top-of-the-range FOH consoles. Both are designed for use in either installation or portable applications such as nightclubs, DJ racks, restaurants and rental rigs.
The CPS-1203 is a full-spectrum enhancement system that produces strong low end, while adding clarity and definition to most audio sources. Applications range from individual mixer channels to live mixes of pre-recorded audio.
The CPT Series of loudspeakers claim "crisp highs and smooth mid-range performance" for small- to medium-sized speaking and performance venues, including houses of worship, intimate music clubs, multi-purpose rooms and any permanent installation. Finally, the LQ 15PSW powered subwoofer is designed for mid-level to high-end sound reinforcement applications, including houses of worship and live music performances.
UK - For two days in late March the final year students of the Technical and Production Arts Course at the RSAMD will be exhibiting a broad range of their work from their three years of study in the Chandler Studio Theatre.
This year, in tandem with the Graduate Exhibition, the college is also launching its Sponsors' Trade show. During the same two days in March the New Athenaeum Theatre will be turned over to RSAMD's industry sponsors and suppliers enabling them to demonstrate and discuss their most recent equipment and products with prospective clients and visitors to the Academy. Companies such as Autograph Sales, VLPS Lighting Services, Rope Assemblies, Crosby Europe, Rosco, Zero 88 and Lyon Equipment Ltd will be talking part.
This is an opportunity for people to meet the RSAMD's staff, students and industry supporters as well as seeing what is happening at one of the foremost Technical Theatre Training establishment in Scotland. The event is open to all, for further information please contact either David Ripley or Ros Maddison at the RSAMD, 100 Renfrew Street, Glasgow.
(Sarah Rushton-Read)
UK - This year's TPi Awards - the third annual Total Production International magazine awards event - took place at the Novotel London West in Hammersmith earlier this week. Hosted by former Spandau Ballet bassist and actor Martin Kemp, the event saw 25 awards presented, with winners including Jake Berry (Production Manager of the Year), Robert Collins (FOH Engineer), Blue Leach (Video Director), LSD Fourth Phase (Lighting Rental Company), Star Events Group (Staging Company) and Carling Academy Brixton (Venue).
Highlights of the evening included the presentation of The Editor's Award to video director Dick Carruthers, made by Led Zeppelin rock legend Jimmy Page. This year's Lifetime Contribution Award went to the original founder of Brilliant Stages, Charlie Kail - presented to him by Brian Croft - and Robbie Williams' tour manager Andy Franks picked up a personal award, plus an award for Live Production of the Year.
In the hours leading up to the Awards event, the Novotel hosted both the PSA Annual General Meeting and DaytimeTP - a new programme of technical seminars, showcases and workshops from Meyer Sound, d&b audiotecknik, Midas, Klark Teknik, Yamaha, Martin Professional and Music By Appointment.
(Sarah Rushton-Read)
UK - Entec Sound & Light supplied a full lighting and sound production package for "East Meets West" 2004. The event was a variety show extravaganza staged at the Carling Apollo Hammersmith, and performed by students from Imperial College Indian Society.
The show featured dance and music - from rap to classical Indian - plus various fusions and theatrical performance. Lighting designer Andrew Keighley, an Entec regular, lit the event for the second year running, and with no stage set apart from some basic props, the visual impact was all down to the application of lights.
He chose a series of simplistic, bold and colourful looks that were ideal for mixing and matching for quick and effective improvisational techniques. There was no time for a full rehearsal or run though, and for lighting in particular, this meant a heavy reliance on Keighley's intuition and busking skills.
The rig comprised two trusses - front and back - with eight Vari*Lite 2202 moving spot lights spread across both of them, and another unit upstage centre on the floor for specials. The dynamics of the V*Ls gave Keighley plenty of scope for ensuring sufficient general coverage as well as more specific cues needed by the performance pieces. Generic lighting comprised PARs and ACLs. Accessories included four Martin Atomic strobes and four James Thomas MR16 battens across the front of the stage. Lighting was completed with two Pani FOH spots and Keighley operated the show from an Avolites Pearl. Entec also supplied a white filled backcloth, upstage of which was a starcloth. Lighting cr
Eire - The Society of Light & Lighting (SLL) is holding a three-day International Symposium on Workplace Lighting at the Dublin Institute of Technology in Dublin, 1-3 April 2004. The event is jointly organized with the Lighting Industry Federation (LIF) and supported by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI).
The two-day technical programme will cover all areas of workplace lighting including: energy efficiency, visual comfort and health, standards, design and installation. Over 20 of the world's leading experts on lighting will be speaking at the event.
On the morning of the third day there will be a colloquium (debate) to formulate SLL policy recommendations for lighting in the workplace. This will provide a unique opportunity for delegates to have their say on lighting issues, in particular the latest EU standards. The results will be fed into a joint SLL/LIF task group on the best way to deliver advice through lighting guides and codes.
(Lee Baldock)
UK - VME Ltd, the audio and lighting sales and hire company, has appointed Jane Fernihough as its new events director. Fernihough joins VME having spent the past seven years at Wigwam Acoustics where she was part of the Wigwam Events Team. Her experience with both indoor and outdoor events range from the Royal Albert Hall to some of Europe's largest parks, and televised events for Britain's leading gospel television station.
Prior to her post at Wigwam, Fernihough had worked in a variety of roles in the entertainment industry. Her responsibilities as VME events director is to extend the company's client base and to fully utilize all the facilities that VME have at their disposal.
(Sarah Rushton-Read)
Spain - Reed Exhibitions Iberia, the Spanish and Portuguese division of the worldwide exhibition organizer Reed Exhibitions, has decided to postpone Scenotech, the international stage technology and entertainment exhibition, scheduled for 21-23 March 2004 in the Campo de las Naciones Convention Centre, Madrid.
The company says the decision has been taken because, with under three months to go before the event, the organization does not have sufficient critical mass and quality to ensure the fair would be on the same high-quality level as its many other shows. By postponing Scenotech, Reed Exhibitions claims it is also "responding to the demand of major business and institutional agents in the sector, who are complaining that there are too many international events organized for this year."
Reed Exhibitions had previously re-scheduled the event from the original dates in January, to March in response to indications from "some important firms with interests in the sector" that March would be ideal for the exhibition. However, in view of what it calls "the lack of enthusiasm from the sector in general", Reed is again postponing the show.
According to the exhibition's managers, they will now survey the opinions of the entire sector, including both manufacturers and distributors of entertainment-related technology, and attempt to involve the sector's leading Associations in the event's organization, in the hope that Scenotech can successfully be organized in 2005.
(Sarah Rushton-Read)
UK - The Annual General Meeting of the Production Services Association (PSA) will be held on 9 February 2004 at the Hammersmith Novotel, and will followed by the PSA Conference and the Total Production Awards Dinner, and the PSA is encouraging all members to attend if possible.
The conference includes the detailed unveiling of the new IOSH / PSA Safety Passport Scheme. A Safety Passport works like any other passport, say the PSA; in this case it identifies the holder as having undertaken basic health and safety awareness training and allows access to "passport controlled" workplaces. Many industries insist that workers hold a Safety Passport before they can gain access to the workplace or even obtain work.
The AGM starts at 10am, and is followed by the Conference beginning at 11am. Lunch is served at 1pm and it is envisaged that the finishing time will be around 2.30 pm.
(Lee Baldock)
UK - As part of PLASA's ongoing role as a CPD Network Provider for RIBA - the Royal Institute of British Architects - PLASA's Nicky Greet, in conjunction with Andy Brining of Stagepoint (and with input from Chris Higgs of Total Fabrications), has developed a seminar entitled Design Considerations for Buildings used for Corporate or Entertainment Applications, to provide architects with essential information in the design stages. The first will be delivered at PALME in Dubai next month (16-18 Feb), with others to follow.
The RIBA CPD Providers Network exists to provide quality, assessed, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for architects and other construction professionals. Manufacturers and suppliers from practically every sector of the construction industry are now represented on this highly respected Network.
The Association had been looking for an opportunity to build closer links with the architectural markets, and RIBA in particular, so that it can create greater awareness of its members and contribute to the building design process. Further details are available from Nicky Greet at PLASA on the e-mail address below, or by telephone at +44 (0)1323 410335.
(Lee Baldock)
UK - The Association of British Theatre Technicians' annual showcase, The ABTT Theatre Show, staged in London's Royal Horticultural Halls on 16-17 June, has expanded into a third hall - the Assembly Hall.
The decision was made by show director Roger Fox, supported by the Show's administrators, Pandemonium Productions Ltd, headed by Simon Garrett. According to the ABTT, the new cost-effective exhibition packages available exclusively in The Assembly Halls are ideal for new exhibitors, particularly key service and educational organizations. Roger Fox says: "ABTT Theatre Show is a unique forum and is a vital technical showcase for professionals in theatre and auditoria. By encouraging new exhibitors from areas such as PA/VA, video and building services, the show broadens its appeal. We're confident that The Assembly Hall will add value to show as a whole."
ABTT reports that over 72% of the combined floor space in the Lawrence and Lindley Halls has been re-booked by 80 of the 111 companies at last year's show. Whilst a handful of prime open sites can still be booked in The Lindley Hall, currently only nine sites are available in The Lawrence Hall. Meanwhile, the Association is also conducting a targeted promotional campaign to ensure that the show's visitor attendance surpasses previous records.
For Exhibitor information contact Simon Garrett or Isobel Hatton at Pandemonium Productions Ltd, tel: 01895 259559, or via email at the address below.
(Lee Baldock)
UK - Stagecraft has made a major investment in new hire equipment to enable organizations to use cutting-edge sound and lighting technology in their performances. The company has seen a significant increase in the demand for professional lighting, sound and staging equipment during 2003 and is currently working on installations in schools, event management for music and drama festivals, and on conferences in South Africa.
The Hire and Live Events department was recently responsible for the creative design and technical management of seven major events over three weeks. One of these included a 1920s themed event for a 60th birthday celebration. "Centred around the art deco period, this was a great event to work on," commented technical director Mike Naish. "Our team was involved from the very start of the planning stages. We designed the invitations, set, lighting and staging and organized the marquee, entertainment and table plans for the evening. Four members of our team were on site for the set build, with an extra six taking part on the night to control lighting and sound."
Event management and design is becoming big business for Stagecraft, which has resulted in greater need for hire equipment. The expansion of this department includes new Robert Juliat followspots, Selecon luminaires, Shure radio mics and a new range of Zero 88 lighting desks. Paul Harte, manager of the Hire Department, is delighted with the growth achieved since he joined Stagecraft in 2003. "It's important that we have consistency between each of the departments so