Martin Audio has increased its range of MA power amplifiers with the addition at PLASA of the MA900 (2 x 450W into 4 ohms), MA1400 (2 x 700W into 4 ohms) and the MA200Q (4 x 200W into 4 ohms). These models have been designed to meet the increasing demands of both the rental and installation markets, whilst remaining cost efficient.

By utilizing a conventional power supply with a toroidal transformer, in conjunction with the latest semiconductor technology and proprietary copper cooling, these fully featured amplifiers offer excellent sonic performance in a compact 2U package. They are capable of delivering maximum power into all impedances, including a two ohm load. The amplifiers have several new features specifically designed to make the products easier to use: these include a multiple position gain switch, to meet the demands for a flexible gain structure in the system; a removable front panel dust filter cover; multiple input connectors via the Neutrik Combo-jack, offering both XLR and TRS phono jack; a three pin Phoenix terminal block for permanent installations; and easy reading LED indicators showing the status of the amplifier.

Designed for demanding applications, the XR-20 is the first in a line of professional Crest Audio X series rack mount mixers which address a wide range of applications. The XR-20 meets the varying needs of project studios, houses of worship, broadcasters, musicians and all facets of live sound reinforcement where it can be used as the primary mixer or as a highly flexible submixer.

AES-suggested grounding procedures are followed, resulting in excellent rejection of RF interference and ground-related noise. X-Rack mixers exhibit less than ±30° of input-to-output phase shift. XLR connectors are used on all primary inputs and outputs, while 1/4in TRS connectors are used for inserts, making it easy to interface with most professional audio gear. As with all of Crest Audio's mixing consoles, top quality components and advanced manufacturing techniques are used throughout, and the product carries a five-year warranty.

Hacousto International has expanded its Accent on Audio Solutions Range with the introduction a new 200W amplifier, the ACE2.200. The ACE2.200 features two powerful and highly efficient Class-T independent audio amplifiers, housed in a compact and lightweight 2U 19" rack mountable unit. The power efficient design and switched mode power supply offer Hacousto’s customers an addition to the Accent 8x8 digital mixer-router system launched at PLASA last year.

Suitable for 50, 70 or 100 volt line distribution systems, the ACE2.200 amplifier offers two individual channels with a 200W RMS output capability. Powered by either 115/230V AC mains or 24VDC supplies, the ACE2.200 is ideally suited for voice supported evacuation systems. Each amplifier channel features two individual inputs with switchable sensitivity and priority functions. Standard features include an extensive overload, short-circuit and high temperature protection displayed on the front panel display. Readily available optional features include a line monitoring module offering 20kHz impedance or DC-based line detection, ground fault and impedance guarding capabilities with an adjustable measurement window compliant to BS5839: Part8 and NEN2575 standards. The amplifier unit ensures that monitoring errors are not only available on both the front panel display and open collector outputs, but also through a RS485 data-link connection bus, presented via the BRS-windows based remote diagnostic software.

Maplin Electronics has launched a new premium range of disco and PA equipment, designed to appeal to DJs, venue managers, event organizers and managers of small theatres looking for value for money equipment. The new ProSound range includes speakers, lighting effects, fog and bubble machines and a wide selection of mixers. The new range of speaker cabinets and monitors has been designed and manufactured in the UK specifically for ProSound, and includes the ‘ProSound Blue’ speaker cabinets which feature Celestion drive units. The range of ProSound equipment will be expanded over the next few months to include everything from decks and audio leads to piezo tweeters and amplifiers.

Philips CSI has launched its new REO CCTV solution ideal for use by security installers in a host of security applications, including retail, fast food restaurants, convenience stores, schools and small to medium-sized businesses. The system handles up to eight cameras and is designed for fast and easy ‘plug and play’ installation. However, it has sophisticated features such as video motion detection on all cameras, alarm and event handling, ‘picture in picture’ and pre/post alarm ‘event replay’, snapshot event capture, intercom and door entry control.

REO replaces Philips’ well-established Colour POS system but existing monochrome POS observation systems will continue for those customers who prefer monochrome. REO offers colour CCTV operation with a choice of either switcher or multiplexer models. The Switcher model handles up to four cameras with images displayed manually or sequenced in full screen, whilst the Multiplexer allows up to eight cameras to be displayed as full screen, in quad (2x2) or in 3x3 split-screen mode. Both models feature a PIP ‘picture in a picture’ box facility allowing simultaneous viewing of two cameras with one full screen.

Crest Audio’s X-Matrix is a 12 x 2 matrix mixer, whose primary application is to add additional matrix mixes to the X-VCA console. It can also be used as a stand-alone matrix mixer. As a companion piece to the X-VCA console, it provides the facilities to create additional mixes from the eight sub groups and the Left, Right and Mono mix buses. In both applications, multiple units can be daisy-chained, offering almost unlimited expansion capabilities. Each X-Matrix can accept 12 line inputs (via multi-pin connector) from the X-VCA or from 1/4in TRS line input jacks, and generates two outputs which include insets, level adjustment and muting capabilities. The outputs appear on balanced XLR's mounted on the rear panel.

Expansion, applications and quality X-Matrix may be expanded both horizontally and vertically, turning X-Matrix on its own into a very versatile mixing system for specialized applications, or where additional matrixes or auxiliary mixes need to be added to any console. While it is intended to be used as an add-on accessory to the X-VCA console, its flexibility allows it to be used in a wide variety of applications such as submixing, recording, broadcast and monitor mixing.

Powering for the X-Matrix is derived directly from the console for up to four units. This configuration enables a basic X-VCA to generate 12 x 12 matrix outputs. The X- VCA console acts as the power supply, talkback, and solo and headphone system for the added-on X-Matrix units. With the addition of an optional power supply, virtually unlimited matrixes may be added to the X-VCA.

PLASA saw the launch of the Messenger XL - a new fully digital sidelobe-free speaker array by Hacousto International of Holland. Featuring the latest technology based on a patented algorithmic technique, the Messenger XL is ideal for background music and high quality speech applications, especially in reverberant acoustic environments where it is difficult to meet contractual speech intelligibility requirements.

The Messenger XL is completely software controlled allowing the lobe to be easily fine-tuned for specific types of application. Its tightly controlled beam can be shaped to meet application and environment requirements offering a precisely controlled listening field and high intelligibility with a minimum S/N ratio. Featuring a Q factor of 36, (140 by 1400) it compares very favourably with good horn loudspeakers, which are renowned for high Q factors of around 32 and noted for their directional characteristics. Not only is this new speaker array from Hacousto capable of producing consistently high sound quality across the coverage area, but it also offers an architectural advantage in that the unit can be mounted vertically making it easier to meet architectural and aesthetic requirements.

The range of software facilities at Vari-Lite Europe has been expanded to provide more powerful options for both visualization and off-line programming. In addition to WYSIWYG, AutoCAD and Vector Works, Vari-Lite Europe has added support for Visionary 3D, the off-line pre-programming software for the Virtuoso and Virtuoso DX control console family and the award-winning software package 3ds max 4.

The Visionary 3D, an off-line programming software package, emulates the main features of the Virtuoso console family (currently only available for the Apple Mac G3/G4) making it possible for lighting designers and operators to create and edit Virtuoso showfiles without the need for a console or a lighting system. 3Ds max4, a modeling, rendering and animation package, complements the core software packages by allowing the LD to realistically visualize a show. It’s the first time that 3D Studio Max 4 has been available in the lighting industry and allows the designer the chance to ‘walk in’ and look around the lighting rig. A copy of the software can be downloaded from the following website.

A complete loudspeaker and audio test system is now available from Stephen Court - creator of Sound Check - one of the world's best selling test CDs. In the form of plug-in hardware, a CD-ROM for Windows and calibrated measurement mic, Speaker Check uses CLIO MLS technology which allows accurate measurements in ordinary room acoustics. The system converts a PC into a Pen Recorder and printer, Real Time Spectrum Analyser, Dual Channel oscilloscope and millivolt meter. It allows the measurement of frequency response, impedance curves, distortion v frequency, impulse response, phase response and a host of other useful speaker and audio system measurements.

After the first hectic day of this year's PLASA show, the cream of the DJ technology world gathered in the suitably stylish environs of London's AKA restaurant for the annual DJmag T-Scan awards ceremony. The awards recognize the true popularity of the latest DJ products amongst end users, voted exclusively by readers of DJ magazine. The 14 awards covered all aspects of the DJ world, with Mackie collecting the prize for Studio Monitor with their HR824. On hand to receive the award was Rick Bos, Mackie Designs product/marketing manager and Tony Williams, director of sales from Mackie UK. Rick Bos commented: "I am very pleased to pick up this award on behalf of the Mackie team who created this monitor, we feel that it really is the best in its field and so do the people that matter, the readers of Djmag."

Sennheiser today announced to the industry press the introduction of a number of new products at PLASA 2001. New to the evolution range of products is the ew550 live touring receiver, a completely new design comprising two independent UHF true diversity receivers in a 1U 19" rack-mount unit, designed specifically for multi-channel operation. Each receiver offers 16 channel memories and 1280 programmable frequencies within a 32MHz switching bandwidth. Other enhanced features include an advanced RF input stage for optimum multi-channel systems operation in hostile sound touring environments.

Also new to the evolution range, the e664 adds to the company’s dedicated instrument microphones. Designed for applications such as drum kit overheads, or highly accurate acoustic instrument miking, the e664 features low noise electronics, high output and a highly sensitive capsule that draws on Sennheiser’s heritage in market leading electret mic design.

Sennheiser also announced the official launch of the latest addition to the DAS Audio range of loudspeakers. Compact One is in keeping with the trend towards self-powered loudspeakers and incorporates 1000W of class D amplifier technology. It is configured with 15" and 6" speakers and a 1" compression driver. Additional features include protection against under voltage, soft clipping, soft start up, mute/unmute functions, birch ply construction and Ancra track flying hardware. Applications include pro mobile systems and high-end fixed installations - in fact, any sound reinforcement application where m

This morning, AKG unveiled its latest Emotion Series Microphone C 900. This is a high quality condenser microphone for vocalists, and provides many unique features at an excellent price/performance ratio. Features include a 24-carat gold-plated transducer case for optimum protection from corrosion and humidity (the entire transducer element is shock-mounted in a special elastic ring). The microphone is also extremely insensitive to handling noise. The supplied Presence Boost Adapter can be installed to boost the 5 - 9kHz range by 2 to 4dB for improved high-frequency sound and better intelligibility.

AKG has also added to its best-selling WMS 40 system, a series of miniature devices that offer perfect solutions to various wireless miking problems. The new products are small enough to fit in a shirt pocket and have been named ‘microtools’. Microtools provide maximum flexibility for a number of sound reinforcement situations. The microtools Series currently comprises the following products: SO 40 snap-on - a miniature plug-on transmitter, GB 40 guitar bug - a miniature transmitter; MP 40 micropen - a miniature bodypack transmitter; CU 40 - a universal charger for all microtools.

In mid-July, Showsound hosted a demonstration of a new sound technology known as the Audio Spotlight. The device, which was demonstrated by inventor F. Joseph Pompei, represents what the company believes to be the first successful development of a truly directional loudspeaker. Whereas a traditional loudspeaker produces a large field of sound, the Audio Spotlight emits a narrow beam of sound - as little as just 3° at 3m.

In practice, the Audio Spotlight generates a beam of sound that can be accurately pointed at specific locations. People within the field of the beam will hear clear audible sound, whilst others standing just outside will not. The sound can be aimed directly at targets or reflected off almost any surface in a method known as Projected Audio.

Joseph Pompei has developed this innovative new system at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Media Laboratory. A significant number of the devices have already been built, and new manufacturing techniques are about to see the production scale increase to meet the anticipated demand. Showsound will distribute, install and operate the patents-pending Audio Spotlight in the UK and Europe.

How it Works
The Audio Spotlight uses ultrasound generated by specially developed transducers that are fired into the air. The natural non-linear properties of air interfere with the ultrasound, breaking down the very short sound waves into different ultrasound patterns along with outputs within the audible sound range. The effect of the air on the projected narrow beam of ultrasound is not random and can

Pulsar has announced some new additions to the ChromaRange family of LED technology lighting fixtures. To complement the existing ChromaLight, ChromaDome and ChromaZone, these new items will allow further flexibility for the use of LED fixtures and provide a comprehensive solution for architectural and entertainment lighting design projects. The entire range will make their exhibition debut at this year’s PLASA and promise to be the highlight of the show.

ChromaBank contains 12 ChromaHearts packaged together in one linear lighting source featuring a total of 960 LEDs. It has a built in ChromaZone to power and control the unit, offering numerous internal effects and chases that can operate in stand-alone mode or with an external DMX/PMX controller. ChromaBanks are idea for TV, Theatre, Stage and Club applications providing incredible illumination and flexibility from a LED based fixture.

ChromaStrip is a linear light source housed in either clear (20 degree) or prismatic (90 degree) 5.5cm diameter polycarbonate tube that is available in 900, 600 and 300 millimetre lengths. Each tube features red, green and blue LEDs allowing infinite colour mixing possibilities. This waterproof product has been designed to highlight architectural features such as windows, doorways, coving or building structures outlines.

ChromaFlush is a sister product to the existing ChromaLight, offering all the same exciting features. Housed in a flush enclosure makes this product perfect for both ceiling and panel mounting when directional adjustment of the light beam is not required.

Chrom

Smoke Factory of Hannover, Germany, has earned a worldwide reputation as a manufacturer of professional fog-generators. The list of Smoke Factory innovations introduced over the years includes: 0-10 V control of output and output volume; DMX control of output and output volume; XLR standard connection for fog-generators; Radio remote control; Direct output volume control through lighting desk fader; Continual fogging and electronic temperature control.

The Tour-Hazer, being launched at the PLASA Show, is an addition to this Professional Touring Range. The DMX-controlled Tour-Hazer creates a fine haze instead of big clouds of fog. By filling the air with a perfect ‘designer mist’, the Tour-Hazer creates an ideal environment for beams and moving light shows. Unlike many other hazers, the Tour-Hazer does not need a compressor. It is small, easy to handle and to carry, comes with a flightcase (from Amtpown Cases, Hamburg) and fits in every trailer’s packing list, due to its 19" size. The noise of the unit is very low, and the output can be controlled from very fine low output haze to almost fog-machine-like output (which can be helpful in situations where the room is bigger than expected, the air conditioning stronger or too many doors open). The input required is 230V/1.600W only, a 110V version (1.500W) is also available.

The Smoke Factory can be found on stand H7.

Renkus-Heinz, worldwide distributor of EASE software for ADA, has announced the release of EASE 4.0, a generational change from EASE 3.0 to a more intuitive, easier-to-use format with more accurate calculations and more realistic presentations.

Originated and owned by Dr. Wolfgang Ahnert of ADA (Acoustical Design Ahnert), Berlin, EASE has developed since its introduction in 1990 into a standard for sound system simulation software. EASE 4.0 has an improved look that features icons and better menus, making its use much simpler and more intuitive. Easy-to-use wizards help to create new projects and simplify mapping functions and ray tracing. A new ‘Objects Function’ allows users to select any items in the drawing, including vertices, faces, edges, seats, lights or speakers, group them together and then save them into a separate file as an object. The object can then be imported into the model, duplicated, rotated or moved in any of three axes to allow rapid insertion of complicated details.

Other notable changes to the program include the addition of phase data for loudspeakers and loudspeaker clusters; Caesar, a complex acoustical mapping module; EASEVision, an architectural rendering module; and new Texture and Light Source Editors.

In what is claimed to be a UK first, high-end touring and installation manufacturer Chameleon Audio is exhibiting its Mac- and PC-compatible digital audio control system at PLASA. Developed over the last 18 months, it utilizes Apple Computers FireWire and Yamaha’s mLAN technologies.

Chameleon Audio managing director, Paul Houlden, decided to develop the system for several reasons. "Firstly, I feel remote control of audio equipment is the way forward and, secondly, there is an increasing demand from live sound companies for this type of technology. When substantial numbers of amplifiers and speakers are operated or flown in remote locations in large concert venues and stadia, should a fault occur, immediate detection of what piece of equipment has malfunctioned is virtually impossible without a sophisticated control system. Chameleon’s digital audio control system addresses these potential problems in a constructive manner by monitoring the performance, so any aural glitches can be instantly pinpointed. Anything that speeds up this analysis has got to be beneficial," adds Houlden.

One of the first to express an interest in the digital audio control system was Britannia Row Productions, who, following a series of trials at a variety of indoor and outdoor concerts throughout the summer, have purchased a range of Chameleon amplifiers. Other applications which Houlden envisages include the potential of FireWire (IEEE 1394) in remote control and audio crossover instructions, allowing further speedy development of this system and, hopefully, a standard ac