UK - Slingco, the UK representative for US manufacturer Vortek's award winning rigging system, announces the UK launch of the new Vortek Point Hoist module.
The unique and versatile Vortek Point is lightweight, self contained, portable and rugged, and ideal for theatrical and entertainment type applications, says the company.
Features include a speed and lifting capacity of 0 - 180 ft/min at up to 1200 lbs of lifting capacity or 0 - 90 ft/min at up to 1400 lbs of lifting capacity - with additional load/speed combinations available. A standard travel distance (for vertical and horizontal mounts) of 65 and 100 ft is available, and the wire rope is available in both 3/16" (5 mm) & 1/4" (6 mm) gauges.
Vortek Point Hoist modules can be attached to a single I-beam (replacing chain hoists), or wheeled to a position on the grid, with dual zero fleet angle lift lines dropping directly out of the unit. The modules can be positioned or mounted in either of two directions, and each Hoist module has two lift lines - for different configurations.
Modules can be integrated into the Vortec Automated Control's (VAC) sophisticated Pro-Series control system. This allows the hoists to accomplish full grouping, cueing, load profiling and all the other Pro-Control functions, along with the rest of the Vortek rigging system.
Point Hoists can also be set up quickly in either single or multiple hoist module configurations, and controlled through Vortek's basic "push button" S-series control system.
Advantages of the Vortek Point Hoist include greater safety th
UK - UK distributor for HME's range of advanced wireless intercom products, audio experts Orbital Sound, is announcing the expansion of its fleet of HME solutions with the addition of the new WH200 ComLink.
ComLink is set to significantly enhance the potential of two-way communications in the UK's broadcast, live performance, corporate presentation and installed sound markets, says the company. ComLink is a digital 2.4 Ghz all in one headset that offers a total comms solution, which comes complete with the entire range of functions offered by the standard BP200 belt pack.
ComLink's feature-packed and ergonomically designed headset augments the operational capacity in any environment application and offers greater freedom of movement, eliminating any cable snagging and obtrusive un-aesthetic belt-packs.
Boasting the same battery life as its sister product - the BP 200, it runs for up to 20 hours only using a nickel metal hydride battery.
Weighing only 5.7 ounces (162 grams) it pulls punches with a wide frequency-hopping spectrum that ensures secure communications through 64-bit encryption. Plus its license free status adds to its flexibility and ease of operation.
With an extra headset gain for louder environments, ComLink is very versatile for the most sonically challenging environments and is completely compatible with HME's award-winning DX series.
Orbital's head of sales, Tom Byrne, says: "ComLink is a seriously advanced product that is set to take the market by storm. It offers the potential to further streamline and dramatically enhance communic
Germany - In an unprecedented move in the world of audio rentals, seven of the UK's leading rental companies have joined forces to create a new rental company called M7 Audio Ltd. The new company has been formed to facilitate UK rentals of the new Midas XL8 live performance system.
The shareholders of the new company are: Britannia Row Productions, Canegreen, Capital Sound, Concert Sound, Skan PA Hire, SSE Audio Group, and Wigwam Acoustics. M7 Audio has committed to taking an initial eight 96-channel systems and associated components worth in excess of £1m.
The foundations for M7 were laid during 2005 when the worldwide audio rental industry was invited by Midas to evaluate the initial concept and plans for the manufacturer's digital project. Subsequent discussions between the M7 partners revealed a shared consensus that joint ownership was the best way to launch XL8 into the UK rental market, creating an efficient rental structure to maximise the utilisation of the systems. This approach means that all UK rental companies and end users will be able to rent XL8 systems from any of the seven individual M7 partners.
A rental structure has been developed to enhance the business performance of all UK rental companies using XL8, allowing them to make a margin on sub hires without the need for a substantial investment in new inventory and increased staff and service costs.
All M7 partners will provide in-house training and service facilities which will be available to all rental companies and end users. All the partners are committed to supporting and servici
Germany - Martin Audio used Pro Light+Sound in Frankfurt to release a new, aesthetically-styled range of LE stage monitors, raising both the looks and performance of the classic LE range which has toured with the world's leading bands over the past 15 years. Also shown for the first time was the new W8L Longbow large-scale, three-way line array enclosure.
With their sleek, rounded profile, it was the three new low-profile monitors that really caught the eye. The series comprises: the LE2100, three-way biamp, high-power differential dispersion monitor, incorporating 2 x 12in motor bass drivers, 6.5in midrange driver and 1in compression driver; the LE1500, an active/passive version, with single 15in driver and 1.4in exit compression driver, and finally, the LE1200, featuring a single 12in driver and 1.4in exit compression driver. The enclosures can also be used as flown infills via the optional yoke.
The rear curves of the cabinets have been created from a single, extremely stiff, pressed and precisely machined beech laminate panel, with the hardwood front rail ensuring that the cabinet remains rigid, tough and acoustically inert. Left and right handed versions are available to facilitate use in pairs.
(Chris Henry)
Germany - Midas have announced the worldwide unveiling of the XL8 live performance system. This greatly-anticipated launch heralds the console manufacturer's entry into the digital mixing realm. XL8 offers an incomparable design combining exemplary sound quality, flexibility and reliability and ease of use unrivalled by other digital control surfaces, says the company. XL8 is the first of a new generation of open-architecture, cross-platform, integrated audio control and distribution systems, which brings control of not only audio, but other aspects of live performance to a single, intuitive control centre.
XL8 represents a new generation of networked systems, requiring only mics, amps and speakers to provide a complete audio system. However its open architecture ensures that third-party devices can easily be integrated into the system.
"Digital technology has now matured to the point where we can offer a mixing system which will conform to all the classic Midas brand values, and won't be obsolete in a few years," says Midas and Klark Teknik brand development manager, Richard Ferriday. "Saying that, we certainly haven't designed XL8 from a nostalgic point of view. Rather, we have listened to our clients' requirements and moulded today's technology to specifically deliver what they need."
The XL8 has been designed to address the way in which sound engineers approach the task of mixing. A large part of the three-year development project has been to devise a work surface that can be operated quickly and easily - even by engineers new to digital
UK / Italy - Lightfactor Sales has taken on exclusive UK and Irish distribution of the Novalight range of products from Italy. Lightfactor - one of the UK's longest established and leading lighting sales operations - was particularly interested in the Novalight High-Ground range of high powered fixed and moving yoke luminaires, which perfectly complements the existing SGM range of moving lights.
Lightfactor's Peter Coles comments: "We needed to fill the gap in the 3 - 5k high power luminaire range, for both indoor and outdoor applications. The High-Ground is ideal - it can be floor or truss mounted and it is versatile, well made and extremely cost effective." He adds that they will be announcing some major High-Ground sales shortly, and that hopes Novalight's new Nova-flower will be just as successful.
The DMX-controlled Novalight High-Ground uses a 2000W MSR lightsource and outputs an impressive 174,000 lumens. The moving yoke version pans 540 in 3.2 seconds and tilts 262 degrees in 2.9 seconds making it a very agile fixture. Offering five dichroic colours and white, plus shutter and strobe effects, it also has the advantage of having no central 'black hole' when the beam is opened to maximum.
Novalight's Marcello Bertini says: "We were looking for a strong UK partner, and Lightfactor met all the criteria. They have been in the business a long time and know the market exceedingly well. The sales team has great energy, enthusiasm and can offer superb support and backup, so we look forward to a fruitful collaboration."
(Lee Baldock)
UK - A Professional Laser Display Safety training course has been announced by safety specialists Laser Visuals Research. The one-day course, which will be held at the KentScience Park, near Sittingbourne, Kent on 26 April 2006, combines theory with practical examples of many topics specific to laser display safety. In addition to the subjects covered during the course, each attendee receives a copy of the Laser Visuals Research 200 page handbook on laser display safety, and receives a certificate of attendance.
The course has been designed to provide essential and valuable information for anybody involved with working with laser lighting products, whether they be show operators, installation companies, manufacturers, or resellers of laser projectors. Course Director, James Stewart, says that, currently, with the dramatic advances in solid state laser technology, the large, expensive, water-cooled and power hungry devices that were traditionally used in the industry have been replaced by easy to use, compact devices, available at a fraction of the cost. It's now a case that anybody with a budget of just a few hundred pounds can buy a laser lighting effect that has the real potential to cause damage to people's eyesight, but are often unaware of the risks, or the legal requirements for using such products.
Any person or venue operating a laser display that has an output power of more than 5mW needs to appoint a Laser Safety Officer (LSO) who is responsible for overseeing the safe installation and operation of the laser display. The course and materials are designe
USA - Theatre designer David Taylor recently previewed plans for the Internet 2 facility being designed for the New World Symphony by Frank Gehry. Taylor has been involved with the New World Symphony, developing the new performance, rehearsal, broadcast and distance-learning facility in South Beach, Miami, in conjunction with the Symphony leadership including maestro Michael Tilson Thomas, since 2003.
Making the presentation on behalf of New World Symphony at the 2006 Internet 2 Performance and Master Class Production Workshop in Miami Beach, Florida, Taylor was joined by Richard Bunn, systems consultant from the London office of Theatre Projects Consultants (TPC). The two are close collaborators on the project, which will occupy two adjacent city blocks and which will enable high definition video and audio to be sent to and from a remote site at speeds thousands of times faster than the regular internet. Taylor says: "The opportunities for arts collaboration are phenomenal and New World Symphony is at the very hub of this digital distance learning network, leading the way for arts groups around the world."
The workshop, which took place from 30 January to 1 February, was attended by delegates from around the United States, with a view to better understanding the opportunities and challenges of distance learning and the performing arts. Yasu Toyota of Nagata Acoustics also gave delegates an introduction to concert and recital hall acoustics.
Other sessions covered Lighting, Audio and DVTS, along with network diagnostics were presented, plus two Intern
Italy - Italian pro audio manufacturer Outline has issued the following statement regarding its intellectual property and the agreement reached with Stamer Musikanlagen GmbH and Music & Sales Professional Equipment GmbH, the parent company of German manufacturer HK Audio, in which Outline says it has agreed to 'tolerate' the design of HK Audio's COHEDRA line array system. The statement also warns other manufacturers whose line array design infringe on Outline's intellectual property of possible legal action.
"It is hereby announced that an important agreement has been concluded between Outline di Noselli G. & C. s.n.c., owner of the Italian design model BS200O000020, the international design model DM / 062394 and the US-American design model D500,306 S, and Stamer Musikanlagen GmbH and Music & Sales Professional Equipment GmbH. Persuant to this agreement, Stamer Musikanlagen GmbH and Music & Sales Professional Equipment GmbH entirely acknowledge the design models of Outline di Noselli G. & C. s.n.c. and oblige themselves to respect such, while Outline di Noselli G. & C. s.n.c. tolerates the manufacturing, offering and distribution of the product COHEDRA by Stamer Musikanlagen GmbH and Music & Sales Professional Equipment GmbH. Outline di Noselli G. & C. s.n.c. solicits the other market participants to refrain from commercializing line-array loudspeakers which infringe the above-mentioned intellectual property rights. Outline di Noselli G. & C. s.n.c. declares to institute legal actions in any case of infringement of its intellectual property rights."
(L
Benelux - In a major announcement on the first day of Frankfurt's ProLight&Sound exhibition, Ampco Belgium and TM Audio, both divisions of the Ampco / Flashlight Group, announced their joint agreement with Peavey Electronics to create an exclusive partnership covering all Peavey MI and pro audio products for the Benelux countries of Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.
Under the ground-breaking agreement, which comes into effect immediately, Ampco Belgium and TM Audio will distribute, support and promote Peavey products with a highly developed infrastructure that will include dedicated vertical market sector sales teams, sales force and reseller product training schemes, product marketing support programmes, educational support initiatives and user endorsement programmes.
Uniquely, Peavey will integrate Ampco Belgium and TM Audio into its European logistics system, ensuring complete access to the largest inventory of MI and pro audio products available. The move to appoint two of the strongest and longest established distributors in the Benelux countries signifies Peavey Electronics' determination to increase its presence in the region, and its commitment to both end users and resellers, the company says.
Marc Kocks, managing director of TM Audio, comments: "We are delighted to have signed this agreement with Peavey, which is one of the world's largest MI and pro audio brands and has enormous potential for growth in Benelux. Both TM Audio and Ampco Belgium have had long experience with Peavey products in the installation marketplace, and the brand make
UK - The Professional Lighting and Sound Association (PLASA) will host its 2006 AGM and Members Lunch on Tuesday 6 June at the Hurlingham Club in West London.
The event has developed beyond an AGM in recent years, and is now much more of an active discussion forum for members who feedback on the work PLASA is doing and contribute to the future direction of the Association. The Members Lunch, which follows, grows in popularity each year, and in 2006 it is anticipated that 200 member companies will be represented. This year's speaker is business troubleshooter Alasdair Jeffrey who will talk to members about the challenges of growing and running a business. He was 'discovered' by the award-winning BBC series Trouble at the Top in 2004 and, as the subject of the 2006 BBC series The Ferocious Mr Fixit, he has built a formidable reputation over the years as a man who makes things happen.
The AGM provides a strong focal point for PLASA, which has set itself some ambitious objectives for the year ahead. It is now 18 months into a major project to develop new qualifications for the industry: central to these is the National Rigging Certificate - a scheme designed to give riggers across all sectors a recognised framework through which their knowledge and expertise can be measured. The scheme goes live at the end of 2006 and PLASA intends that it will act as a blueprint for other industry skills. The Association is also working on the development of qualifications for the PA/VA sector and has recently won national recognition for this work from the UK governme
UK / Africa / Middle East - JVC Professional is to distribute the Edirol V-440HD video and graphics mixer for the UK, Africa and the Middle East. Building on the success of the Edirol V-4, the V-440HD is capable of eight video inputs, four SD and four HD or RGB video sources.
Among its features is the ability to link multiple units together, enabling single HD images to be spread across many output displays - ideal for multiscreen applications. In addition, the mixer can be remotely controlled by any Edirol instrument via MIDI or RS-232C. Other features are, picture-in-picture with joystick, size-dial to control position, size, pan and zoom, plus a lock facility can be used simultaneously with the keyer in the HD and graphics section. The built-in TBC and real-time upconverter and scaler all ensure totally smooth transitions.
You can now happily mix together your existing SD video footage with new 720p or 1080i HD material. Whether the resolution of your computer graphics are VGA or SXGA, this new mixer accepts them, ready for upconverting and rescaling, as required. The output can always be true HD even if the input is not.
"It makes perfect sense for JVC, with its powerful line-up of HDV 3-CCD camcorders and SD widescreen Hitachi studio cameras, to have such a powerful systems tool as the V-440HD which literally brings together the worlds of HD and SD video with graphics thrown in," said Ian Scott, director, Pro Video Operation of JVC Professional Europe's office in London.
(Lee Baldock)
USA - High End Systems (HES) is now shipping the fourth version of its Catalyst software and Media Server. Catalyst software, which was first introduced in 2001, fuses lighting with digital media, allowing the user to create virtual scenery and unlimited visual effects for markets ranging from tours and corporate events to cruise ships and houses of worship.
The new Catalyst v4 is enhanced with support for additional input/output devices as well as complementary products. This support includes cue lists and pixelMAD functionality, expanding the possibilities for users, say HES. Version 4 also enables Catalyst to be controlled by video- and music-industry standard controllers such as Mackie and MIDI controllers. This is the first version of Catalyst to not require a DMX controller. The Pro version of Catalyst features four independent on-screen output mixes and 10 independent assignable layers. Multiple on-screen mixes means that the show operator can break down his set design and run different effects over different sets of fixtures.
PixelMAD brings with it an entirely new and expanded user interface. It features multiple onscreen mixes, which is applicable for both DMX LED lighting fixtures and LED walls. Other key enhancements of Catalyst v4 software include a new, intuitive user interface; custom color and visual effects including improved kaleidoscope, pixilation and wave effects; innovative sub-mix system giving advanced control of LED DMX fixtures and processed video display systems such as LED walls; MIDI Notes and MIDI Show Control compatibility (Input an
USA / Belgium - US-based DJ equipment manufacturer Numark has announced a strategic alliance with ArKaos, the Belgium-based software provider, to provide audio and video integration into live DJ performance. The announcement was revealed at the ProLight&Sound trade show in Frankfurt, Germany.
Numark and Arkaos have created a powerful video controller, NuVJ, which it says will invite any DJ to instantly transform into a multimedia VJ (Video Jockey). The software is compatible with a Mac or a PC.
Representatives of Numark and ArKaos point out that the NuVJ is an entirely new product offering that capitalizes on the strengths of both companies and is designed as a video counterpart to a DJ's existing audio setup. Numark CEO John E. 'Jack' O'Donnell commented: "Numark has a proven track record of innovation in the DJ market and is always looking for opportunities to further exploit the company's strengths. By partnering with ArKaos - a leading innovator in the rapidly growing VJ market - I believe both companies have the opportunity to forge new, uncharted territories in a segment of the DJ market that is poised for explosive growth."
ArKaos' founder and CEO, Marco Hinic, says: "For over eight years, ArKaos has revolutionized the integration of visuals into the ever-evolving music scene. Our products are designed for displaying large visuals at concerts, in clubs, and other venues that cater to music performance. As the integration of sound and picture becomes more closely intertwined in the DJ's performance arena, we believe the necessity for a dedi
Germany - At ProLight&Sound in Frankfurt, German manufacturer K.M.E. has launched two active professional stage monitors, the CLP 320 and CLP 350, to add to its Cluster Series. The CLP 320 is equipped with 12" + 1" neodymium loudspeaker, the CLP 350 with a 15" + 1" speaker combination. Both models are equipped with a 350W class D amplifier for high quality audio and maximum operation safety through comprehensive protective circuitry.
The input module is equipped with two independent audio inputs with two-band EQ and switchable 48 volts phantom power. Input 1 has an additional Cinch connector for signal sources as CD/MP3-players, and input 2 is equipped with an line-out connector for daisy-chaining. Master volume pot and master limiter are rounding out the professional features of both units.
Both monitors feature an optimized dispersion, due to the 80° x 60° rotatable horn. The low profile casings are equipped with an angle of 45°. CLP 320 and CLP 350 are mainly aimed monitor and fill applications. Two side-mounted butterfly handles offer an ergonomic handling. One of the handles includes the speaker stand flange for using the CLP units as self-powered full-range PA systems.
K.M.E. has also reported success in sales of its PANO line array, with system now on the run of success all over Europe. In Germany, Adapoe Sound Veranstaltungs- und Service GmbH choose PANO for a concert of the jazz and soul duo Friend'n'Fellow at the Gasometer in Zwickau and the tour of the German rock band Karat; in Ireland the system was operated passively and sta
UK - TMB UK has moved to a new location, and now has new phone and fax numbers. The company can now be contacted at: TMB UK, 21 Armstrong Way, Southall, UB2 4SD, UK.
(Lee Baldock)
Germany - At ProLight&Sound, G-LEC has launched what it calls the first walk-through LED system. The G-LEC Tube follows the same principles as the company's highly acclaimed transparent LED frame systems - but without the frame. Each individual transparent tube hangs free, so walking through the G-LEC Tube is like walking through a slash or beaded curtain.
The ability to create a 'forest' of LEDs, with different lengths of individual tubes, brings enormous potential to lighting and set designers, say G-LEC, from having performers literally walk through the set, to dramatic 3D designs. Like the G-LEC Classic and the PhantomFrame systems, the G-LEC Tube is transparent to light, audio and wind and can be used to hide or reveal speaker stacks or an orchestra without affecting acoustics.
The G-LEC Tube can be constructed in different lengths, from 10cm up to 6m, in 10cm increments with no limit on the width of the system, offering large scale LED graphics with video capacity. New, powerful control software provides the capability of graphics on up to four planes, from any DMX512, MIDI, SMPTE source as well as standard video input. Graphics are fast and smooth, creating excitement and movement on a set.
Quick to assemble, the G-LEC Tube is ideal for touring and one-off productions, such as award ceremonies and concerts, and because it is so lightweight, can be hung or flown without requiring reinforcement.
The ultra-bright RGB pixels on the G-LEC Tube are set at 50mm pitch, and the pcb connection is short enough that individual tubes can be curved to radius of 75cm
Australia - Jands has announced that the latest addition to the Vista family, the Vista S3, is a finalist in the prestigious Australian Design Awards. Nominated by designer 4design, and entered in the consumer section, the Vista S3 is a product of five years development and a dedicated Jands R&D team of nine people.
The product is described in the ADA finalist pages as "an innovative lighting console for the programming and control of lighting for live performance. Through innovative software and compact design the Vista S3 allows the user to build lighting designs visually on screen. The Vista software provides an intuitive and creative process for creating lighting effects and uses a window-based system similar to modern computers. All aspects are seen in timeline format which gives an entirely new approach to design and performance to speed the programming process. The Vista S3 will be compatible with both Mac and PC it is an extremely cost effective and versatile console at a fraction of the cost of a full scale console."
The 2006 Australian Design Awards are being held on Friday 19 May at Wharf 8, Hickson Road in Sydney.
(Lee Baldock)
UK - St Edmundsbury Theatre Services (SETS), the Bury St Edmunds based production and hire company, has taken delivery of a D.A.S. Audio self-powered Aero28A line array system. This is the first such system to see service in the UK. D.A.S. Audio has long been recognised as a serious player in the European and global markets, and Sennheiser UK, the UK's exclusive distributor, sees this as "a major breakthrough in an area crowded by several longstanding manufacturers", the company says.
SETS owner Marcus Eustace says: "Our team handles the logistics of several hundred productions a year, many of which utilise quality PA systems. We believe the D.A.S. Aero gives the quality of audio reproduction required for both theatre and outdoor events. In choosing the new system we worked with James O'Leary of CoNi who has a strong reputation in supplying this type of equipment. We tested various systems and after hearing the D.A.S. Aero were convinced of its suitability. Whether the system is ground-stacked or flown, the ease of rigging and audio quality allow our engineers a straightforward set-up whilst the self powering and high build quality make the D.A.S. Aero an ideal hire product."
Each Aero CA-28A is a self-powered, two-way compact line array module designed for use in multi-box arrays. Their trapezoidal shape and rear splay adjusters provide the array with a "seamless" front baffle for improved performance. Mid frequency reproduction is handled by two 8" cones and the high frequency reproduction is through the M-10N driver, which ut
USA - Color Kinetics Inc has announced that company co-founder Ihor Lys is to take on the role of chief scientist, while Fritz Morgan is promoted to chief technology officer, with effect from 1 April. The company says "these executive management changes support the company's aggressive plans for technology advancement and underscore its commitment to continued innovation".
Previously served as chief technology officer for over eight years, Lys will as chief scientist be responsible for the company's strategic technology advancement and implementation, including applied research and advanced engineering in the development of new lighting, power and control products. He will collaborate with the extended executive team to help formulate corporate strategy and product vision, addressing both near-term and forward-looking market opportunities.
As chief technology officer, Morgan will lead the company's product vision and positioning, as well as its technical vision and direction. Morgan joined Color Kinetics in 1998 and has served as vice-president of engineering for the past four years.
(Lee Baldock)
USA - Lectrosonics is unveiling three new additions to the SM Super Mini transmitter line - which it says are the world's smallest professional audio wireless transmitters. The SM transmitter filled a niche for users who wanted a high-powered, cost-effective, advanced wireless transmitter in a small and splash-proof package, say the company.
The first of the three new additions to the SM family is the SMD (SM-Dual) transmitter using two AA batteries and therefore doubling the battery life of the original unit. Next is the SMQ (SM Quarter Watt) transmitter which has been designed to deliver 250mW power for longer range and greater resistance to interference than the standard SM (100mW transmitter) - also using two AA batteries. Finally the RM (Remote unit) was created for programming and operation of the SM transmitter family, including the new SMD and SMQ units. The RM communicates with the transmitter via a proprietary audio signal through the transmitter's microphone so it does not rely on line of sight, as do infrared systems. This allows the transmitter to be buried in a costume and still respond to commands updating operating frequency, audio level, sleep, control surface lockout, etc. The RM is supplied with a lanyard and quick-release mechanism for ease of deployment in the field.
(Lee Baldock)
Denmark - Martin's popular Maxxyz lighting controller is now available in a PC-based version. This new computer-based version of the Maxxyz console is an off-line and online editing tool that gives full Maxxyz functionality from the ease and convenience of a PC or laptop, say Martin.
Maxxyz PC can be used for off-line programming and can be linked to Martin's Universal DMX interface device or Ether2DMX Router for direct control of fixtures. Featuring dongle-protected software without the need for expensive hardware, it is the ideal programming platform for a large variety of shows.
Maxxyz PC is the most scalable PC-based lighting software in the industry. The software is free of charge. However, to output DMX, a USB license dongle and a DMX interface device are needed. The USB interface device outputs 2 universes or uses ArtNet via the PC's Ethernet port.
Maxxyz PC is an attractive add-on for Maxxyz users and can be installed on a PC or laptop running Windows XP OS. Also, Maxxyz PC can be used in conjunction with the Maxxyz Wing, or as a backup to the Maxxyz console.
(Lee Baldock)
UK - Prism restaurant, in the City of London, has recently undergone an upgrade of both its lighting and sound systems, provided by full service AV company Mushroom Event Services.
Restaurant manager Belinda Jarman, administration manager Hannah Ross and marketing and communications manager Hannah Westway were instrumental in instigating the change. "We wanted to have a very definite change of atmosphere in the evenings," explains Ross. "Each day, we change from being a more formal lunch venue to a very relaxed evening venue and we wanted a look to reflect that. With the lighting that Mushroom has installed we've definitely achieved that, to the point where we have had a series of reviews that name Prism as the place to be with our red lighting theme and 'The Brain' wall projection."
To achieve this, Mushroom supplied red cold cathode low voltage lighting at the base of the front of the bar and RGB spot uplighters positioned at intervals at the base of the wall on the opposite wall, each of which are mounted in an IP65-rated custom made fitting, allowing the restaurant to choose the colour they want via a remote control system. Prism's 'brain' is projected onto the rear wall of the restaurant from an Opti Goboshow projector with a prismatic wheel attached.
Sound for the main restaurant is handled by deploying Mission 180° dispersion loudspeakers to give even coverage throughout the room. "We had a reasonably tight budget to work to and the Prism team knew exactly what they wanted to achieve," explains Mushroom's Paul Butler. "