BSS Audio at The Center Of Sound In Austria’s New Praterdome

In an impressive installation that is a display of ultimate fidelity and power, BSS Audio Soundweb™ London was utilized for the Praterdome, one of the largest and most modern nightclubs in Austria. The nightclub has two levels, four dance floors and 12 theme bars, with DJs playing music styles from various decades and styles including, house, techno, R&B, soul, 70s, 80s, and 90s. The system was installed by German based sound integrator FACE. The installation features signal processing and audio distribution by Soundweb London BLU-160 devices.

Opened in October 2008, Praterdome is owned by MPC (Music Park Concepts), which spent over seven million Euros in the development of the nightclub. “We needed a sound system that was going to effectively cover the entire venue. With people constantly moving all over the facility, the sound quality needed to be consistent,” stated Praterdome’s manager Thomas Zuchner.

Soundweb London features a low latency, fault tolerant digital audio bus of 256 channels which uses standard Category 5e cabling giving a distance of 100m between compatible devices. The BSS Audio MC-1 fiber optic media converter can be used to increase the distance between devices to over 10km (6.2 miles) using single mode fiber.

Additionally, JBL speakers were installed throughout the club. This includes 41 JBL SRX 728s, 18 JBL SRX 728s, and 16 JBL SRX 715s. Forty JBL Control 26Cs were incorporated as well. Additional Harman products in the installation include multiple Crown XTi 1000 amplifiers and CT3000 amplifiers. A total of 130 speakers and subwoofers create a sound system with a capacity of 100,000 watts.

The Caplan Center For The Performing Arts In Philadelphia Opens Its Doors With Two Soundcraft Vi4™ Digital Consoles

Expanding its audio and production capabilities with the installation of two Soundcraft Vi4 digital mixing consoles, the University of the Arts recently completed a major audio installation in the Caplan Center for the Performing Arts. Both the 215-seat Recital Hall and the Studio Theater are equipped with separate Vi4 consoles, allowing University Of The Arts Sound Engineer, Scott Rosenthal, to mix with ease and confidence.

The University of the Arts was previously mixing on analog consoles and the migration to digital has seen an increase in both productivity and education value. Rosenthal’s decision to purchase the industry leading Vi4 for the Caplan Center has increased revenue for the University and has also given students added resources to enhance their post-graduate careers by recording ensembles and recitals for their portfolios.

“With multiple ensembles performing each night, all with a variety of instrumentation, the Vi4’s ‘show and cue’ feature provides a great advantage as I no longer need to incorporate copious notes and markings from the sound-checks,” said Rosenthal. “With a simple push of a button, I can recall each setting for individual performances saving me valuable time and allowing me to really concentrate on the quality of sound.”

Rosenthal maximizes the Vi4’s capabilities and utilizes the wealth of options to record performances as well as distribute the feeds to various locations in the University as well. Rosenthal comments, “Having the opportunity to work on the Vi4 has been a blessing and I can’t imagine ever going back to the limitations of analog mixing. The Vi4 has opened so many doors that I compare it to coming out of a cave and seeing light for the first time.”

The Vi4 offers countless features including access of up to 72 inputs on 24 faders, with a total of 35 output busses available for use as masters, groups, auxes or matrices. The Vi4 also provides users with two of the most popular features from the Soundcraft Vi6, such as the highly acclaimed Vistonics™ II touch-screen user interface and Soundcraft FaderGlow™ fader function display.

Meeting Services Brings State-Of-The-Art Sound To Historic Levitt Shell With New JBL VERTEC® Line Array System

Demonstrating the ease of installation and sonic accuracy of JBL VERTEC® line arrays, Meeting Services Inc. of San Diego, CA recently installed a new audio system for the renovated Levitt Shell at Overton Park in Memphis, TN. Since its dedication in 1936, The Levitt Shell has entertained Memphians with a variety of performers, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and the Grateful Dead. The Shell re-opened in the fall of 2008, once again offering free outdoor concerts, with upgraded audio, video and lighting systems.

Meeting Services was responsible for installing the audio and video systems, as well as the lighting system electrical infrastructure. With the goal of providing high-quality, consistent audio in an outdoor environment, Meeting Services turned to JBL’s VERTEC line arrays and Venue Performance Series powered loudspeaker systems. “We have had tremendous success with VERTEC line arrays in the past, including a large number of outdoor events,” said Ken Freeman, Technical Director of Meeting Services. “We installed VERTEC at the Levitt Shell with the knowledge that the system would perform to expectations and has the proven ability to deliver high-quality audio in an outdoor environment.”

Meeting Services’ installation at the venue included 10 JBL VERTEC VT4887ADP powered, compact line array elements with JBL DrivePack® technology and four VT4881ADP powered, arrayable subwoofers. The line arrays are configured in a left-right, stage-stacked arrangement. Eight JBL VP7212M’s are used as stage monitors and two VP7210 loudspeakers are used as front fills. A dbx DriveRack 4800 is the master system controller, with Harman HiQnet™ System Architect™ software in use for remote control and monitoring.

Three pairs of JBL Control 2P’s compact powered reference monitors are used backstage for dressing and green rooms. AKG microphones and dbx DB-10 direct boxes round out the system.

The Levitt Shell re-opened in September with a series of performances featuring Amy LaVere, Kirk Whalum and Teatro de la Rosa. Since the re-opening, Freeman notes the VERTEC loudspeakers have helped to create a dynamic and enjoyable experience for listeners. “The VERTEC line arrays have performed exceptionally, and they were very easy to install,” he said. “The Levitt Shell is truly a historic venue that is now equipped with a state-of-the-art sound system.”

For more information on Meeting Services, please visit www.msiprod.com

Hitachi CP-SX635 3LCD Projector Offers SXGA+ Resolution And Ease Of Installation

-- The CP-SX635 has been developed for use in applications such as simulator environments, where high brightness and detail are needed--

Bringing SXGA+ resolution and advanced functionality to applications where high brightness and detail are important, Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc., Business Group today announced the introduction of the CP-SX635 3LCD projector. The CP-SX635 is designed for environments such as simulator projects, offering a brightness of 4,000 ANSI lumens and four optional lenses for various throw distances.

The CP-SX635 offers a 2,000-hour hybrid filter, making maintenance and cleaning much less frequent. The lens shift option makes the CP-SX635 very easy to install. Additionally, 16 watts of audio provide ample sound for most applications, while the audio pass-through function allows users to put the projector in standby mode when only audio is needed.

Additionally, the CP-SX635 model can also be remotely controlled and maintained through a LAN network connection, providing the ability to network, control and maintain the projectors remotely. The network functionality also makes it easy to control multiple projectors in different rooms and to monitor for functions such as remaining lamp life.

The CP-SX635 projector also offers functions proprietary to Hitachi such as My Screen, My Memory and My Button as well as input source naming and blackboard/whiteboard/daytime modes. Security features include a PIN lock, Kensington slot and transition detector. Lastly, the CP-SX635 offers full connectivity including a HDMI input.

“The introduction of the CP-SX635 3LCD projector demonstrates Hitachi’s continued commitment to reliability, versatility and unmatched performance,” said John Glad, product manager, Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc., Business Group.

Hitachi StarBoards Add Up For Kamiakin High School

- Washington High School Is Utilizing Hitachi StarBoards To Enhance Mathematics Education --

Math class has never been as exciting since Kamiakin High School in Kennewick, Washington upgraded classroom technology with Hitachi Software StarBoard interactive whiteboards. Purchased through Troxell Communications, the school utilizes the Hitachi FXDUO-77 model StarBoard.

Jenny Byrd, a mathematics teacher at Kamiakin, is utilizing the StarBoard in all of her classes. “Typically I have notes including pictures, definitions, examples and practice problems that I display onto my board. The Hitachi interactive whiteboard improves what I have previously done in many ways. I love that when I move on to the next page, the board has saved my work on the prior page. This allows me to switch back and forth to the example problem if the students are struggling on a practice problem,” stated Ms. Byrd.

According to Byrd she has also found ways to use the interactive whiteboard with other technologies. “I use the board in conjunction with my calculator software to display graphs. It allows the students to actually see me touching the buttons and their location on the board.”

Additionally, the interactive whiteboards have become an asset in the rare circumstance that the teacher is absent. “When I have a substitute, I record my voice and interactions into the board for the sub to play. The students no longer fall behind if the sub is not familiar with the type of mathematics the students are learning. It also allows for a more productive class with the students because the sub doesn’t have to try as hard to keep them engaged in a worksheet. The students now have a video to watch and notes to take and I can still give students practice problems to solve,” stated Ms. Byrd.

According to Ms. Byrd she looks forward to finding new and exciting ways to integrate the StarBoard into lessons. “There are many applications I look forward to adding to my classroom as time goes by. For example, I would like to add more interactive lessons, where students come up to the board and physically translate, rotate, dilate a shape or learn about fraction addition. There are also many math applications we could perform on the board to strengthen student understanding.”

Harman Professional Showcases Brilliant Audio Quality At The SBS ISU Senior and Junior Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final

In another example of Harman Professional technologies being deployed at world leading sporting events, integrator Sovico, a Korean distributor, designed a Harman sound system at the 2008-2009 SBS ISU Senior and Junior Grand Prix of Figure Skating Finals held at Ice Arena in Goyang City, Republic of Korea, from December 11 to 14. Goyang Ice Arena opened with international and state-of-the-art facilities at the Goyang SPART Comlex & Park in October 2005. Sovico provided the design set-up for the rink’s Harman Professional audio system. A total of 84 skaters represented 12 International Skating Union (ISU) members during the course of the four-day event; all looking for the opportunity to win medals and prize money in either of the disciplines that are rewarded; men’s singles, ladies’ singles, pair skating, and ice dancing.

The Senior Final presents 24 skaters/couples with the chance to display their best skills in order to prevail to the $272,000 prize money. Before the Final, six skaters/couples qualify in the six events of the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Series: Skate America in Everett, Homesense Skate Canada in Ottawa, Samsung Anycall Cup of China in Beijing, Trophee Bompard in Paris, Cup of Russia in Moscow and NHK Trophy in Tokyo.

Audiences at the Finals were satisfied with the sound system’s ability to stimulate exceptional audio quality. “The brilliant sound system was a big help in success of the event,” said a civil official of Goyang City.

Harman proudly supplied the system with 26 Crown Macro-Tech series amplifiers, six Crown CE2000A amplifiers, eight Crown CE1000A amplifiers, 12 JBL LSR6235P studio monitors, 20 JBL Control 25AV loudspeakers, 43 JBL AM Series loudspeakers, six JBL AE Compact Series loudspeakers, six JBL SRX715 loudspeakers, 14 JBL Control 5 monitors, 12 JBL PD Series loudspeakers, two Soundcraft K3 consoles, Soundcraft K1 console, five AKG K271S headphones, 19 AKG microphones, and additional processing was provided by dbx and BSS audio products.

“We had faced a tremendous issue with designing a sound system due to the conditions of a typical ice rink; hard surface floor, concrete walls, and a metal ceiling,” added another civil officer of Goyang City. “There is virtually nothing in it that absorbs sound. These conditions make it difficult for any sort of intelligible sound, especially voice announcements.”

Sovico did not hesitate in distributing Harman audio products for this complex task. Goyang City holds presence to an international standard sized swimming pool building next door to the rink and was concurrent with the decision to also install a large sound system primarily made up of Harman Pro products.

Pop Academie Chooses Studer Vista 5 For Recording Studio Training Center

The Pop Academie National College for Popular Music located in Mannheim serves a very active music scene with artists such as Xavier Naidoo, die Söhne Mannheims, Laith Al-Deen, Groove Guerrilla, Mardi Gras.BB and Joy Fleming. Founded in 2003 by the Baden-Württemberg county as a public-private partnership, the Pop Academie is funded through national and private contributions.

When upgrading the recording studio earlier this year, studio manager Marcus Thiel chose a 32-fader Vista 5, not only for Studer’s renowned audio quality and reputation, but primarily for the intuitive operation of the console, a highly important feature when teaching students the art of recording. Studer’s patented Vistonics™ GUI is widely regarded as the best user interfaces to be found on digital consoles.

The Vista 5 is configured with 24 Mic/Line inputs, and 2 MADI outputs linked to a ProTools audio workstation and an RME Madi link to a Logic/Cubase workstation, and is used as part of the studies to record Pop and Rock bands.

http://www.popakademie.de/

Soundcraft Broadcast Sales Buoyant Despite Market Conditions

Soundcraft Studer reports that sales of its analog Broadcast mixing consoles remain particularly strong, despite the economic conditions and even the transition to digital.

Sales of the long-established RM100, RM105, Series 10, Series 15 on-air desks and the production-orientated B400, B800 and BB100 desks are as strong as ever, proving that the market puts a lot of faith in choosing the right, reliable and proven products for use in its facilities.

Recent sales in the Broadcast sector have been made to City College Coventry, where 5 of the Series 10 desks have been installed in the technology suites for Media courses, and to Satellite Information Services Live who purchased 3 of the BB100 production mixers, with other analogue consoles sales to RAI and Radio Italia in Italy, TRT in Turkey and ERT in Egypt.
The company has also recently announced that many models will now be readily available from stock in standard configurations, which helps reduce delivery times for time-critical installations.

“We found that people are less willing to wait for custom-configured desks nowadays, (which we still do to order) but that most configurations used pretty-well identical modules. So we chose to stock what we consider to be the most popular configurations so that delivery times are minimized,” reports VP of Sales, Adrian Curtis.
The standard configurations typically include a mix of Mono, Stereo and Telco input modules, master module, VU meters and a timer.

“We had expected that digital consoles would make more of an impact in the simpler on-air end, but there is definitely still a very active analog sector, particularly in some OB applications where budgets and space are often tight” says Curtis. “Being able to offer fast deliveries on these consoles has definitely been well received by our customers.”

“Having said that, the Soundcraft® Vi Series of digital consoles, particularly the compact Soundcraft Vi4, has found favor in studios and the larger OB trucks recently, notable installations include Denmark’s TV2 OB truck, RAI in Italy, SWR in Germany, VRT in Belgium, TVE in Spain, and Russia’s RUR TV and RTR. The 72-input capacity of the Vi4, coupled with the broadcast-friendly remote stagebox and Vistonics II user interface, offers a great package for many applications requiring digital solutions. In these low-light environments, having the illuminated Soundcraft FaderGlow™ and Vistonics screens are a major advantage for operators.”

The Vi Series also has optional interface cards which make it particularly useful in HD trucks, such as an SDI de-embedder/embedder card, and a Dolby D/E decoder card, which help to save cost, space and weight. Other broadcast-specific functions include a high bus count for cleanfeed outputs, and configurable GPIO connections for fader starts, signalling etc.
Full details at www.soundcraft.com

Crown Audio Appoints Guillermo Sanchez Business Developer For Central and South America

Crown Audio today announced the appointment of Guillermo Sanchez to the position of Business Developer for Central and South America. In this role Sanchez will be responsible for supporting the sales within the region and working closely with the customer base to ensure all products are tailored to meet their needs. He will report to Director of Marketing for Installed Sound, Brian Divine.

Previously, Sanchez served as Chief Sound Designer and Engineer for Corporacion Dynaco. In this role Sanchez was responsible for preparing and engineering sound reinforcement equipment for live music, corporate events, television. He also engineered sound solutions for events such as parades and political events in this role.

Sanchez is also the former owner and Chief Sound Designer and Engineer for Dynacoustic. In this position he specialized in the design and engineering of sound equipment for major live sound events.

“Guillermo has over twenty-five years of experience as a sound engineer. As a veteran of the industry he’s well aware of the needs and challenges of our clients and his background will prove to be a major asset for them to tap into,” stated Divine.

Commenting on his appointment, Sanchez said today, “After over twenty-five years spent in sound design and engineering, I now get to work for one of the companies that I relied on so often in my career. This is an outstanding opportunity and I look forward to the challenge of assisting others in their sound design needs. I’ve always relied on equipment from companies that stood behind their products and Harman is known throughout the industry for just that.”

Harman International Audio Components Provided by Maryland Sound (MSI) For U.S. Presidential Inauguration Ceremonies

Harman International Industries (NYSE: HAR), a leading provider of branded audio and infotainment electronics for the home, the car, and sound professionals, today announced that components from its JBL Professional and Crown Audio divisions were deployed by sound company Maryland Sound (MSI) for the highly anticipated United States Presidential Inauguration Ceremony that took place in Washington D.C. yesterday. The event drew the largest civic-event audience ever served by an outdoor sound reinforcement system in the United States, with a crowd of as many as two million people jamming the National Mall and surrounding areas. The sound reinforcement system featured JBL Professional VERTEC® line array loudspeakers powered by Crown Audio I-Tech amplifiers and managed using Harman HiQnet™ System Architect™ software. The company’s VP7315DP, VRX932 and Control 25AV speakers projected the swearing-in ceremony, the new president’s speech and performances by a host of leading artists.

The sound system was designed by Pat Baltzell of Baltzell Audio Design and was supplied by Maryland Sound (MSI), led by Bob Goldstein, President. “JBL VERTEC simply has more total power output than the competitors. Additionally, this is the first inauguration we’ve been able to utilize Crown I-Tech amplifiers, and therefore run System Architect. Utilizing a Harman system has certainly provided us with the increased flexibility we’ve needed for this unprecedented event,” stated Baltzell.

“We are extremely pleased with the assortment of tools that Harman provides us. From the superb JBL VERTEC line arrays to Crown amplifiers and Studer and Soundcraft consoles and other products. We are able to achieve the highest fidelity sound possible and vastly superior to that which was available only a few years ago. Given the harsh environmental conditions we were working in, which has brought sub zero temperatures and lots of precipitation, the equipment worked flawlessly with no failures,” stated Bob Goldstein, President of MSI.

“The inauguration of a president is a historic watershed moment with the potential to change the world,” said Dinesh C. Paliwal, Harman International Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “President Obama’s speech and swearing-in ceremony were watched and heard around the globe, and at Harman we are very proud to have helped bring that experience to the millions attending the event in Washington D.C. This inauguration marks the continuation of a proud tradition of our company’s support of other historic moments in politics, sports and entertainment across the world.”

Following the Swearing in Ceremonies, Maryland Sound (MSI) also provided Vertec Line Arrays for the Inaugural Parade route from the Capitol to the White House. On several nights leading up to the Inauguration MSI provided a host of JBL and Crown systems for myriad events including the Finance Dinner. In addition to the inauguration, Harman Professional audio components were central at the numerous celebration concerts that took place around Washington D.C. the week preceding the swearing-in ceremony and the night of. On the eve of the inauguration, MSI provided JBL loudspeakers, Crown amplifiers, Soundcraft Vi4 and Vi6 and Studer Vista5SR consoles for several Inaugural Balls including the “Commander in Chief Ball” at the National Building Museum and the Biden Home States Ball at the Washington Convention Center. MSI provided JBL VERTEC systems for various other concerts around Washington featuring Carol King, Faith Hill, Bon Jovi, Stevie Wonder, Josh Groban, Ludacris and Beyonce. Firehouse Productions supplied sound for a concert to honor military families, featuring Miley Cyrus and the Jonas Brothers at the Verizon Center. This was followed by a concert on the evening of January 20 in which audio system provider ATK/Audiotek utilized JBL VERTEC line arrays to provide sound for an all-star line-up charity concert featuring Sting and Elvis Costello at Washington's Harman Center of the Arts.


***Image is for online usage only.***

Illinois School District Uses Hitachi StarBoard to Deliver Innovative Lessons

Western Spring School District 101, IL Integrates Hitachi Interactive Whiteboards In All Subject Matters At Elementary School Level

In an effort to provide its students with the optimal 21st century classroom experience, Western Springs School District 101 in Western Springs, Illinois has chosen Hitachi Software StarBoard interactive whiteboards. Purchased through Troxell Communications, the school utilizes the FXDUO-77 model StarBoard along with the award-winning Hitachi CP-A100 3LCD projector as part of the Hitachi CP-A100+FXDUO bundle.

The StarBoards have been particularly popular at the elementary level where teachers are utilizing them in all major subject areas. “In English we are using it to pick out verbs, in math students use the board to solve math problems, and in social studies it aids us when we are studying a map of a specific area of the world,” stated Scott Elder, 5th grade teacher in the Western Springs School District 101.

Mr. Elder is in his first year in utilizing the Hitachi StarBoards but he feels it is a valuable tool that enhances his teaching. “I use it everyday and the students love it. This technology engages student’s and more attentive in class—far more than when using the textbook. It’s such an interactive tool you see the difference in the learning experience by using it,” added Mr. Elder.

District technology coordinator Damon O’Hare explained that the district considered purchasing interactive whiteboards from other companies but Hitachi offered distinct advantages. “When you compare the Hitachi interactive whiteboards to others on the market, the technology is far superior. We needed to invest in a product that we knew would be best for our long term investment both financially and for our students. With the extremely competitive price, we realized we were getting the most for our money with Hitachi,” stated Mr. O’Hare.

Western Springs has planned to purchase additional Hitachi CP-A100+FXDUO bundles over the next two years. “Currently, we have 20 of the bundles and we distributed five to each school in the district. The ultimate goal is to have one in every classroom in our district and we will continue to work toward that,” added Mr. O’Hare.

Crown Audio Supercharges System Reliability On 660A Series Amplifiers For Commercial Sound Marketplace

In a move to address the needs of both its contractor and end user communities in all vertical markets, Crown Audio today introduced its 660A commercial sound amplifier with a re-engineered high bandwidth filter that provides comprehensive system reliability in the most demanding fixed installation environments. The 660A represents a renewed commitment to providing the highest quality amplifiers for commercial and industrial audio.

“The 660A is among the most complete amplifier packages designed specifically for commercial applications,” said Phil McPhee, marketing director for Crown Audio. “For this reason we added a new high bandwidth filter to make it among the most reliable in this product category.”

The 660A has six inputs and six 60W power amplifier channels for multi-zone systems. It can drive different types of speakers in different areas of a facility. The amplifier is ideal for applications in schools, hospitals, factories, restaurant/retail, house of worship, fitness facilities, and 5.1 surround systems. These low-cost units provide all necessary features in a simple building-block format. The sound system can be upgraded as a facility expands, allowing for the addition of more mixers for more inputs, or add more power amps to handle more zones.

The amplifier features balanced Phoenix-type line inputs and touch-proofed screw-terminal speaker outputs. Its advanced protection system includes output current limiting, DC protection, circuit breaker/fuse, and thermal protection. The 660A is backed by Crown’s 3-year full warranty.

ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME LEGEND, BOOTSY COLLINS, TURNS TO EVENTIDE’S TIMEFACTOR TO “FUNK UP HIS DELAYS”

“TimeFactor makes you want to be creative, even at the moment when you have run out of ideas.” – Bootsy Collins

Conveying nothing short of a bona fide rhythmic and groovy bassist sound, Bootsy Collins is recognized as one of the most distinguished bassists in the development of funk music. Today he continues his more than thirty years of success in the music industry by using Eventide’s TimeFactor effects pedal. Known primarily for his role in Parliament/Funkadelic and as the lead singer/bassist of Bootsy’s Rubber Band in the late 70’s, Collins has recently turned to producing movie, video game, and animation scores.

“The versatility of the TimeFactor helps me twist and funk up my time delays,” stated Collins. “Given the opportunity to do that has really kept me in a 70’s music-style state of mind.”

Bootsy’s Rubber Band collaborated around a musical sensibility that was at the forefront of a new genre of music in the late 70’s. Collins often drove the group’s songs with his eclectic sound and has recently transferred that sound into today’s music realm with the use of the TimeFactor pedal.

The Eventide TimeFactor crams nearly 40 years of Eventide studio quality effects technology into the trimmed down form of a stompbox. Eventide has taken its 10 best delay effects and integrated them into a compact stompbox that produces guitar effects equally well in the studio and holds up as a robust road tool that fits into a pedal board. TimeFactor includes 9 stereo or dual mono delay effects, including Digital Delay, vintage DDL, Tape Echo, Modulated Delay and Ducked Delay, as well as Band Delay, Filter Pong, MultiTap Delay, Reverse Delay, plus a 16 second vari-speed Looper.

TimeFactor offers real time control of all the parameters via 10 knobs, expression pedal, or a MIDI footcontroller. TimeFactor has 40 presets and features tap tempo, MIDI clock sync, line and instrument inputs and outputs, USB for software upgrades, and true analog bypass. It is housed in a rugged cast metal construction featuring reliable metal footswitches for direct preset access.

“Eventide does not produce anything but quality products,” said Collins. “The moment I was informed that this came out in a stompbox, I had no doubt that I needed to own one for my own musical endeavors.”

Currently, working with the TimeFactor, Collins is developing sounds that distinguish him from others in the business of production.

“This product challenges you to go beyond where the normal musician would go,” said Collins. “The TimeFactor makes you want to be creative, even at the moment when you have run out of ideas.”

GUITARIST SAM KEARNEY OPENS FOR OASIS WITH ALBERTA CROSS AND EVENTIDE’S TIMEFACTOR

“I have the ability to control the rates of the left and right channels separately, which gives the TimeFactor a huge advantage over other pedals.” -Kearney

Emerging band Alberta Cross is currently touring the U.K. with Oasis and lead guitarist, Sam Kearney, has selected Eventide’s TimeFactor for its wide range of effects and delay capabilities. In addition to the current tour, Kearney also applied the TimeFactor to the band’s debut full-length album for release in April 2009, on Ark Recordings. The band’s previously released hits are critically acclaimed and include “Low Man” that was featured as the closing song to an episode of Showtime’s ‘Californication’.

“I came across the TimeFactor a year ago and it has filled a void in my playing,” Kearney states. “I have seen a big improvement and the stereo-delays are very helpful. I have the ability to control the rates of the left and right channels separately, which gives the TimeFactor a huge advantage over other pedals. The straight forward interface plus the wide variety of sounds puts this pedal head and shoulders above the others.”

TimeFactor features 10 stereo or mono delay effects and gives musicians, as well as engineers, the power to adapt to any music style. The provided effects include: digital delay, vintage delay, tape echo, mod delay, ducked delay, band delay, filter pong, multi-tap, reverse, and looper. TimeFactor offers real-time control with the expression pedal and instant Preset access. The plug-and-play expression pedal control works with wet/dry mixes or any combination of parameters.

“I love the capabilities of the TimeFactor and the pedal offers users more options than a traditional delay pedal,” explained Kearney. “This product is perfect for live performances as the guitarist can balance the sound and lock in with the drummer. The capabilities of the TimeFactor help the band to be in sync at all times, which is a tremendous advantage.”

EVENTIDE KICKS OFF STOMPBOX REBATE PROGRAM WITH DISCOUNTS ON TIMEFACTOR, MODFACTOR AND PITCHFACTOR

January 16, 2009 – Today at NAMM, Eventide announced the launch of a factory mail-in rebate program for its best-selling line of stompboxes including TimeFactor, ModFactor and the recently announced PitchFactor Harmonizer® stompbox. Effective immediately and lasting through April 23, 2009, customers are eligible for a $25 rebate on the purchase of any single Eventide stompbox, a $60 rebate with the purchase of any two Eventide stompboxes and a $95 rebate with the purchase of PitchFactor in combination with two other Eventide stompboxes.

Visit eventide.com for the rebate form and rules.

Record Producer And DJ Paul Chambers Enhances His Sound And Performance In A Wide Range Of Applications With Soundcraft’s MFX12™ Mixer

Showcasing its versatility in virtually every application, ranging from live sound and recording to houses of worship applications, the Soundcraft MFX12™ multi-purpose mixer offers the finest quality effects in its price range. Paul Chambers, composer of over 300 records, demonstrates the professional quality of the MFX12 mixer as he records and remixes for countless artists and most recently completed a 10-part series for Channel Five television.

“The sound of the MFX12 is very warm and the EQ is very recognizable, as it is on all Soundcraft products,” states Chambers. “The construction of the MFX is incredibly durable and the amount of inputs and outputs provide users with countless routing options. Even if I do most of the composing within the actual computer, I still run each individual channel back through the desk to create a warm, analog feel. I also always use hardware compression knowing that there are still the benefits of hands on faders present.”

The MFX12 mixer combines all the features of the popular Soundcraft MPM™ mixer with a built-in 24-bit, digital, Lexicon® effects processor, expanding the Soundcraft low-cost, multi-purpose compact range. The effects section fits neatly into the mixers compact framework, which is available in eight, 12 or 20 mono input variants, both with two stereo channels and effects send on each channel. There are 32 different effects to choose from with a tap tempo function, three effects parameter controls and a user effects setting store facility. An effects channel level clip LED and Mute function gives the user even more flexibility.

The MFX12 is an extension to Chambers’ long time association with Soundcraft products, which began with the Spirit 24/8/2, the Ghost, and now the MFX12. “I began my relationship with Soundcraft over 15 years ago and I have always favored Souncraft products ever since my first interaction with the 24/8/2. The sound is very full and well rounded, and the logical next step was to move up to the Ghost, as the EQ was great for carving out sounds and frequencies. Now as times have changed, a small multimedia mixer like the MFX12 is ideal, as it can be used for routing or mixing through a wide range of applications.”

ESP New York Selects Soundcraft’s Vi6™ For Diesel’s 30th Anniversary “xXx Rock and Roll Circus” Party Finale In Brooklyn

The Soundcraft Vi6 was among the elite attendees invited to the final stop of a 24-hour non-stop party hosted by Diesel to celebrate its 30th anniversary around the world. The “Diesel xXx Rock and Roll Circus” took place in 17 major cities across the world; commencing in Tokyo and moving to Beijing, Dubai, Athens, Amsterdam, Milan, Zurich, Munich, Paris, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Barcelona, Oslo, Helsinki, London, Sao Paulo, and finally had its grand finale on Pier 3 in Brooklyn, New York on Saturday, October 11.

ESP New York chose the Vi6 for its outstanding audio quality and its ability to handle The Rock and Roll Circus that hosted numerous music artists performing in front of thousands of VIP guests.

T.I., N.E.R.D., Franz Ferdinand, M.I.A., Hot Chip, and Chaka Khan staged performed on the Brooklyn waterfront in front of a crowd of 5,000 VIP attendees, including celebrities Lindsay Lohan and actress Emma Roberts. Soundcraft’s Vi6 enhanced each of the performers’ music exemplifying what a fantastic sounding board it is.

All the engineers involved with the show used the boards and programmed individual shows for each performer prior to show time. ESP New York’s Monitor Engineer, Steve Swope, educated the engineers on the Vi6’s capabilities. “The amount of inputs/outputs and accessibility makes the Vi6 perfect for this venue,” said Swope. “The user-friendly interface allowed the sound engineers to operate the console without any difficulties despite having very little experience on the Vi6.”

With the flexibility of the Vi6, engineers had the ability to digitally patch all content ahead of time to any specific location. This preparation allowed them to switch and adjust any problems that may have arisen without any interruption or loss of sound quality. ESP New York’s Glenn Davis and Bill Danilczyk met at Front Of House, and commenting on the potential of the system, Davis states, “I can route signals through this console more than any other digital console. The functionality in terms of outputs, routing, and flexibility is far superior and the sonic quality is outstanding. All of the design work, planning and layout were perfect every time.”

The Rock and Roll Circus went exactly as planned and the mash ups between T.I. /Franz Ferdinand and M.I.A./ N.E.R.D. were successful with the operation of 195 mic inputs. “The ability to pre-label the show ahead of time allowed the show to run seamlessly without any difficulties,” said Davis.

Tony Berger of Relevent produced the show that featured not only popular music acts but also an array of spectacular entertainment. Cabaret performers, fire-eaters, trapeze artists, sword swallowing acts, and female roller derby squads dazzled guests.

For more information on ESP New York, please visit www.espnewyork.com.

Dale Hanson Drives The Soundcraft® Si3 Around Bedford All Night

Dale Hanson took time off the road to handle eight different acts at The Bedford in London and mixed the evening away on a Soundcraft Si3-its first public, commercial gig. Along with the other Si3 beta testers covering theatre, touring and house of worship applications in Europe and the USA, Dale has taken the Si3 through its test paces but this gig was the ultimate beta test! In typical pro fashion, Dale was calm and collected. "The show was a bit like live TV with eight acts performing a couple of songs each during the evening without any change over time at all really. Not many digital consoles can cope with that type of challenge but the Si3 worked really well. I found that you can use so many different functions at the same time to be really useful. Having control of EQ, Dynamics, Bus Sends and Effects without having to reassign anything was great."

The Si3 is Soundcraft's latest 'mid range' addition to its growing digital family. It follows the Studer Vista 5 SR (Tours including: Celine Dion, Rascal Flatts, Billy Joel, Katie Melua, Keith Urban) and both Soundcraft Vi6 and Vi4, which were just announced with upgrades to 96 and 72 inputs to mix at PLASA (Tours: Bob Dylan, The Feeling, Deep Purple, Diana Krall and Rufus Wainright).

"Although we label the console mid-range in terms of price, that certainly doesn't limit its capabilities. It's a large format console at a mid-size console price point," added James Shears, Soundcraft's Si3 Product Manager. "Amongst many other new features, it has 64 inputs, 24 group busses, Lexicon processing and Distributed Display Technology.”

Very analogue in feel, the Si3 follows the company's digital operational philosophy of 'where you look is where you control' established by Studer on the Vista and OnAir ranges and continued on the Soundcraft Vi Series. Soundcraft has eliminated the need for a large, central screen and instead put the information screens right where you went them; next to the controls. Shears adds, "This console is perfect for users growing out of their smaller digital consoles and looking to upgrade at a sensible price and especially suitable for current analogue users who haven't yet made that switch. That's why we've designed the user interface to be so 'analogue familiar.’ Basically, just take your analogue console out and drop the Si3 in it's place - simple!"

"The pre amps sounded really nice and had plenty of headroom,” Hanson adds. “I found that I needed minimal EQ on the night, which is always a good sign. The dynamics were easy-to-use and sounded smooth. I particularly liked the Lexicon reverbs, as they sounded great. The fact that the FX returns appear as normal channels is also great as I could easily send one effect into another; for example; very analogue!"

"It was a great feeling to see the Si3 go through its paces in a real life situation," said Shears. "We'll be running a series of Si3 gigs to provide engineers the chance to come and play with it after the launch at PLASA."

JBL VERTEC® Line Arrays Specified For High-Profile Tours And Special

Highlighting the global acceptance and demand for loudspeakers from JBL Professional, rental companies servicing numerous major tours and events around the world relied upon VERTEC® line array systems in 2008. Whether it was AVPG in Texas meeting the demanding special-benefit concert sound needs of award-winning country songstress LeAnn Rimes with their new compact powered VT4887ADP/VT4881ADP rig, Sound Media Fusion deploying mid-size VT4888DP-AN powered line arrays for the 2008 Summer Olympics in China in the Beijing National (“Bird’s Nest”) Stadium, Sound.com of India adding new VT4888 line array elements to its VERTEC inventory to service a “Bollywood” extravaganza at the world’s largest film studio complex in Hyderabad, AdLib Audio fielding VT4880A Ultra Long Excursion arrayable subwoofers for the U.K. tour by German rock legends The Scorpions, or Maryland Sound handling New York’s Times Square New Year’s Eve for a broadcast audience of one billion persons with VT4889 full-size line array elements, rental sound service providers around the globe offered their clients the precision coverage, premium fidelity, and robust output power capabilities of JBL’s industry-leading line array systems.

A unique case in point was the recent “Heaven's Rehearsal,” a large-scale multi-denominational musical event on November 1, 2008 intended to reflect the gathering of all nations, tribes, peoples and languages in Toronto, considered by many to be the most ethnically-diverse urban center in the world. The event was staged in Canada’s massive indoor/outdoor Rogers Centre, formerly known as the Skydome, and equipped with the world’s first fully retractable roof. The 55,000-seat venue is home to Major League Baseball’s Toronto Blue Jays and the Canadian Football League’s Toronto Argonauts, and frequently hosts concerts from some of the world’s top performers, soccer matches, motor sports, family shows, conventions, trade shows and private events like this one.

“Heaven’s Rehearsal” featured a contemporary band on stage to support solo artists like Dominiq, Maggie Blanchard, and Raymond Anthony Fuentes plus a full orchestra and 500-member choir. The major special event was supported by Toronto’s PA Plus Productions, Inc.

“From an audio perspective, this event posed three major challenges for us, first of which was the acoustical nature of the venue space,” explained Mark Radu, Chief System Engineer for PA Plus. “A huge concrete and glass stadium with a retractable steel dome roof extends 325 feet above the field. Secondly, due to a football game the evening before our load-in, we could not get any points pre-rigged above the football field layout. This limited us to designing a point-source system emanating from the stage without using any signal-delayed array locations. Finally, as a large portion of final ticket sale would be walk-up, there could be no way of accurately predicting which areas of the stadium would require coverage.”

The PA Plus event team onsite, led by Senior Engineer John Lacina, deployed a total of 60 VT4889 full-size line array elements, 32 VT4880 full-size arrayable subwoofers integrated into the full-range speaker arrays, and four VT4887 compact line array elements under-hung for center down-fill. Four main arrays were flown 22.5 degrees apart on a 160-foot (49-meter) radius. In total, 636 driver elements were energized with total available power of 320,000 watts provided by 80 Crown I-Tech power amplifiers. Using Harman’s HiQnet™ System Architect™ software for remote control and monitoring allowed sections of the arrays to be turned off as required, to limit the coverage down to 30,000 people, the minimum attendance expected. The general seating was assigned in a pre-determined order, enabling the audio team to turn on sections of coverage as more distant seating zones were filled.

“JBL’s VERTEC line array systems gave us the predictability and sound-pressure level required to focus acoustic energy only where it would be needed,” summarized Radu. “The system design worked as planned and we were able to minimize spill outside the desired coverage zones. Overall, considering all of the challenges involved, everyone was pleasantly surprised with the final result."

With professional rental inventories on all continents now equipped to offer VERTEC-quality sound reinforcement to sound designers, meeting planners, and concert-industry production managers, a growing number of challenging entertainment and multimedia events like “Heaven’s Rehearsal” are being specified as JBL-equipped projects. “JBL is committed to providing leading-edge business tools that will assist qualified practitioners like Mark Radu and his team at PA Plus to achieve the results their clients expect and require for such difficult events,” explained David Scheirman, Vice President, Tour Sound for JBL Professional. “The VERTEC system’s key design attributes of lighter weight, easier suspension, greater output and better fidelity continue to meet the sound-reinforcement challenges that our customers encounter around the world.”

New York City Superclub, Santos Party House, Equipped With Harman Professional Sound System By TimbreTech Audio Services

Demonstrating how creatively-designed sound systems featuring highly-configurable, great sounding components can make a club’s reputation and also enable business models that optimize the venue’s real-estate investment, NYC IT-Club, Santos Party House, features advanced sound systems designed and integrated by TimbreTech Audio Services that support DJ/club and live performance and multiple events and ‘showtimes’ in one evening. Club sound icon, Jim Toth, designed a live system around a Soundcraft Vi6 console at Front Of House that is easily locked off and run remotely via a laptop in the DJ Booth when one of a host of top DJs is performing in the house. Toth credits the Vi6 with the versatility to transform the club from a top-notch live sound venue into a premium club with unprecedented ease — and with the console’s category-leading Vistonics user-interface, Toth explains that visiting engineers typically require just five minutes to become comfortable and proficient with the board.

“The Soundcraft Vi6 is a remarkable console because it systematically addresses the hierarchy of engineer needs: first and foremost, it sounds great; secondly, it’s extremely intuitive and sensibly designed; thirdly, it’s eminently configurable and lastly, it’s bulletproof,” Toth said today. “I feel extremely comfortable putting this console at the core of my system!”

Underscoring this confidence, Toth placed a Soundcraft Vi4 at the monitor position running 6 JBL SRX 712M 12” monitor wedges powered by Crown XTI 6000 Series amplifiers. The live system features JBL VerTec VT4887DP Series line array elements, with JBL VerTec VT4880 subwoofers. Featuring integrated power and DSP, Toth’s use of the VerTec VT4887DP loudspeakers allowed him to set the level and EQ of each cabinet individually — a key advantage in configuring the array for the room requirements and also a welcome advantage among visiting engineers.


The dance system is where Toth — a self-admitted compulsive audiophile — has his most fun and extracts his greatest satisfaction! He returned to his roots as the system designer of Eighties club-land icons like Peppermint Lounge and Mars and built a 24-foot horizontal array of custom designed 5-speakers that spans the length of the room and delivers an amazingly even coverage. Each 5-way featuring 24” and 15” drivers in a line spaced with minimal interference or cone filtering because they’re spaced apart very carefully. Bass is supplied by the same JBL VerTec VT4888 subwoofers.

“The coverage of this system is amazing. It has power, consistency and control that helps set the personality of the club,” says Ron Castellano, owner of the club. “There is nothing raw about it. Instead, it’s very HiFi and sophisticated but there’s massive power there if the DJ needs to accelerate!”

The power that Castellano refers to is delivered by a battery of Crown I-Tech 4000 and 8000 amplifiers with built-in DSP, which Toth believes saved the owners considerably in terms of outboard gear that was not required and the simple cost of housing and maintaining racks of processing equipment.”

“The DSP functionality of the I-tech is amazing not just from a control perspective but also from a cost perspective,” Toth notes. “There is no way we could have gotten this sound or this control without spending a fortune on outboard processors. What’s more, to have this level of programming and control integration helped determine how creative I could be with the system design — and ultimately how good the place sounds! For 30
years, I have only used Crown amplifiers — I have looked at alternatives when new amps come along but I’ve never been given a strong enough reason to switch — now with the DSP technology that Crown is putting in the amps, I have even more reasons to use them!”

Santos Party House has a smaller, second room downstairs for which Toth designed a system comprising custom cabinets and VT4880 subwoofers with two monitor arrays hanging conventionally with eight cabinets on each side of the DJ booth. Toth observes with no small amount of satisfaction how some visiting DJs matrix between the monitor and dance systems, and mix straight from the line arrays.

Toth has built a successful business with remarkable built-in resistance to the booms of troughs of 30 years of the entertainment business and Castellano is quick to offer a reason. “Stubborn is not a word one would use. Uncompromising is a better description of Jim’s commitment to perfection when it comes to audio design,” Castellano says. “He understands that managing the details is critical in every business, but especially the entertainment business and he provides concierge-level attention to detail and considerable style to boot!”

Today, TibreTech Audio Services provides club design services but Toth also runs a very successful audio for special events business and regularly runs projects including fashion shows, balls, store openings and concerts for Victoria Secret, UBS, PRADA, Lauder and MOMA. “It’s not that we’re selective in who we’ll design for,” Toth explains. “It’s simply that if we’re being asked to put our name on an event or club system, we need it to look and sound like one of our systems! The Harman components from Crown, JBL and Soundcraft are key elements to our systems!”

DIGITECH® INTRODUCES REVOLUTIONARY TIMEBENDER DELAY PEDAL

ANAHEIM, California - DigiTech®, a leading manufacturer of guitar, bass, and vocal processors, and a Harman International company (NYSE-HAR), is introducing the TimeBender Musical Delay Pedal. The TimeBender Musical Delay leaps ahead of all delay pedal technology currently available.

The TimeBender not only allows you to input the tempo of your delays, it also allows you to strum a pattern and it will set the repeats based on your desired rhythm. On top of the extraordinary rhythm features, the TimeBender also produces intelligent harmonies on the repeats. If that is not enough, 10 delay types are featured including two tape delays, full-time modulation and a 23 second looper. Until the TimeBender, these types of delay effects were the result of racks of gear and studio tricks. Now you can simply put it on your pedalboard.

Drowning Pool Guitarist C.J Pierce Relies On DigiTech® HardWire™ HT-2 For Latest Tour

Guitarist C.J. Pierce of the Dallas-based metal band Drowning Pool is currently on tour to support the band’s current release “Full Circle” on Eleven Seven Music. C.J. has been utilizing the new DigiTech® HardWire™ HT-2 chromatic tuner to keep himself in tune throughout the tour. C.J. has been using DigiTech® effects for many years including the GSP2112 preamp processor and the Whammy4™ for all his tones and pitch shifting effects.

Drowning Pool is a four-piece rock band that was formed in 1996. They rose to fame while playing along with Ozzy Osbourne during an Ozzfest tour in 2001. Their most recent album has a post-grunge sound and is less heavy than their previous work. The first single off the album, "Soldiers," is dedicated to all the men and women of the United States Army.

Last year Drowning Pool’s rehearsal and storage space was broken into with most of the gear being stolen including Pierce’s GSP2112. After last year’s incident, C.J. has obtained the GSP1101 preamp and is pleased to have reproduced all of his signature tones on the new model. Speaking about the preamp C.J said, “The GSP1101 is amazing! It has replaced all of my old GSP2112’s.”

The DigiTech Hardwire Series HT-2 is a chromatic tuner pedal that is visible, accurate and durable when in use, transparent when not. The cornerstone of every pedalboard is a reliable tuner. The HardWire Chromatic Tuner's true bypass means that when it is off, it's out of the circuit.

DigiTech Artist Relations Manager Paul Muniz stated, “C.J. has always had crushing guitar tones. With the kind of abuse the gear takes on the road, it’s great to know that C.J. and the boys can rely night after night on our products to deliver.”

Crown Introduces XTI6000 Continuing A Heritage Of Leading Amplifiers For Portable PA Applications

Reprising the broad market success of its XTI Series of portable sound amplifiers for live sound and fixed applications. Crown Audio is introducing the next generation XTI6000 that features advanced power performance, improved system reliability, and a new breakthrough user interface for configuration and control in Crown’s HiQnet™ Band Manager™.

The Crown XTI Series has earned a formidable reputation in the portable sound market place, leveraging Crown’s unparalleled heritage in live sound amplification. The new XTI6000 provides audio professionals with the winning addition of a power amplifier solution to this high value, high performance product line.

“The best just got better with the XTI6000. We’ve listened carefully to the needs and suggestions of end users and retail partners before we built a compelling new amplifier that packs tremendous punch, performs consistently, and is priced to reach the broadest possible market,” stated Andy Flint, Crown marketing manager for portable PA.

The XTI6000 allows for plug and play usability with it’s integrated proprietary DSP with LCD front panel making it easy to set crossovers, delay, limiters, and EQ along with the ability to save and recall up to 20 presets.

Continuing the heritage of previous XTI-Series amplifiers the XTI6000 features an LCD screen with speaker presets for crossover frequencies, EQ, limiting, delay, and a subharmonic synthesizer. Additionally, there is switch-mode universal power supply, useful function indicators, propositional-speed fan-assisted cooling, XLR inputs, Speakon® and binding-post outputs, and short-circuit protection. The XTI6000 weighs in at 24lbs and has a MAP price of $1,999.

Power per channel:
3,000W at 2 Ohms; 2,100W at 4Ohms; 1,200W at 8 Ohms

Crown Audio Introduces HiQnet™ Band Manager™ As Breakthrough Software Application for Portable PA System Configuration and Control

Delivering an unprecedented sound management solution to the portable PA market, Crown Audio has introduced HiQnet™ Band Manager™ software. The free-of-charge application provides a sleek function-driven interface designed to simplify system setup and management while enabling audio professionals, musicians, and engineers to configure and control a rack of Crown XTi series amplifiers. Band Manager unlocks all loudspeaker processing capabilities of the XTi Series. Once it automatically discovers up to eight USB-connected XTi amplifiers, represented in a virtual rack, all the setup required is to load each amplifier with the JBL-provided speaker tunings and set which amplifiers are driving front-of-house. Band Manager makes smart use of browser-style navigation and the ‘Home’ screen displays monitor strips for each amplifier in the rack and front-of-house EQ and level control. EQ for stage monitors and all other processing is accessible on an individual amplifier basis. Upon starting Band Manager, all amplifier settings are transferred from the connected devices but they can also be saved to disk for quick recall if the rack is used often in multiple venues.

Band Manager is a cut-down version of its parent software, HiQnet System Architect™, a much larger application which provides full-system control of over 70 professional audio devices from across the entire Harman Pro group, including the XTi Series. Anyone who has already used System Architect with the XTi will instantly be familiar with the amplifier control layout since Band Manager makes use of the same software plug in. Directly tailoring Band Manager to the needs of portable PA market enables far quicker configuration of a rack of XTi amplifiers by bringing only the essential tools into direct focus. For those who need the more advanced control, any rack configurations saved within Band Manager can be opened in System Architect. By using the plug in concept, Band Manager is all ready to control other future portable PA HiQnet devices.

Commenting on the introduction of Band Manager, Andy Flint, Crown marketing manager for portable PA stated, “Band Manager provides users with a simple and intuitive interface capable of unlocking the vast array of system setup and management tools included in the XTi product line’s integrated processing. This is another excellent example of Harman’s experience and dedication to the portable PA market.”

While Band Manager is being introduced to operate in conjunction with Crown XTi amplifiers it is planned to take control of other complimentary Harman HiQnet products in the near future. “As a group, we envision Band Manager being used to manage an entire portable PA sound system all the way from microphone to speaker. When introducing software control, making the management of a potentially complex audio system as simple as possible is the most important goal. It is no longer enough to just provide the user with the highest quality equipment, you need to offer great, user-friendly tools to open its potential as well,” added Flint.

Neil Diamond Selects AKG Products For 2008 “Home Before Dark” World Tour

Demonstrating the performance and versatility of AKG microphones, the technical staff for rock icon Neil Diamond selected AKG microphones for his 2008/2009 world tour, celebrating the first chart-topping album of Diamond’s storied career. Neil Diamond is one of the most successful adult contemporary artists in history and has sold well over 120 million records worldwide. Diamond’s successful career has spanned over 40 years and his current tour illustrates why he is one of pop music’s most enduring and successful performers of all time.

Commenting on the tour’s selection of the C 414, Neil Diamond’s Sound Designer/FOH engineer Stan Miller states, “We treat the microphones similarly to the way musicians treat their instruments.” Miller and his audio staff took extensive time to review the entire line of AKG products as well as those from many competitors. “We had to be careful because there is a lot of risk when switching microphones, however choosing the C 414 was the perfect decision for the horn section and drum overheads.”

“The May 6, 2008 release of “Home Before Dark” has sparked life into Neil’s career as it took him 42 years to finally top the album charts with an original work,” Miller stated. “The 2008 world tour is a celebration of Neil’s accomplishments and we wanted to produce a fitting showcase. In doing so, the decision to select AKG has proven to be a great success,” Miller continues. “Not only have we received tremendous results from the C 414, the WMS4000 wireless system and the IVM4 in-ear monitoring system have produced tremendous results as well.”

The C 414 delivers excellent sonic performance in a wide range of recording and live sound applications including pianos, percussion, acoustic guitars and orchestral recording. Its 1" gold sputtered, edge-terminated dual diaphragm capsules have a very smooth and warm response and users have the ability to select from five different polar patterns including cardioid, hypercardioid, and wide cardioid omni-directional or figure-8 by using the easy-to-use pattern selector switch.

The C 414’s features include three switchable attenuation filters and three bass-cut filters that minimize undesirable low frequencies caused by wind vibration or proximity effect. Minimizing low frequency noise benefits artists such as Neil Diamond, who perform in a number of outdoor venues. The C 414 has been upgraded and improved several times over the past 37 years as technology has improved in response to the requirements of ever-demanding artists and engineers.

Hip-Hop Pioneer Kanye West Incorporates AKG Wireless Systems Into “Glow In The Dark” World Tour

Stage Audio Productions Inc. Selects The WMS 4000 And IVM 4 For The Worldwide “Glow In The Dark” Tour

Demonstrating the versatility and performance of AKG wireless technologies, the WMS 4000 wireless system and the IVM 4 in ear monitoring system were recently deployed on Kanye West’s most recent world tour that visited 40 cities and six continents. The critically acclaimed “Glow In The Dark” tour featured performances by renowned artists Lupe Fiasco, Rihanna, N.E.R.D, and Nas. The yearlong tour began in Seattle and continued throughout Latin America, Asia, Europe, New Zealand and Australia.

“Since we would be touring the globe for a year, we needed wireless systems that were durable and reliable and we are confident that AKG products would provide us with everything we needed for the “Glow in the Dark” tour,” said Darcy Khan, Touring Account Executive For Stage Audio Productions Inc. “After spending some time searching for clean frequencies, HPF, and EQ’s for the belt packs, I was able to save all of the presets on my laptop into separate folders specifically assigned to each city where we would be performing. This feature was a tremendous time saver on the road as it allows me to easily access the file and have all of the saved settings at my fingertips.”

The WMS 4000 wireless system offers users with countless features including an advanced backlit display on the transmitters and the receiver, remaining battery life readout, silent mode, pilot tone status data transmission, environment scan and rehearsal functions, and auto setup frequency search. The WMS 4000 can be integrated into a Harman HiQnet™ system with the optional HUB 4000 Q. With the PC control software System Architect™ the WMS 4000 can be remotely controlled and monitored from a PC. The setup and configuration of the frequency management of the entire wireless system is incredibly easy within System Architect with tools like RF Monitor, Device Manager, Environment Scan and Auto Setup.
The IVM 4 system enables technicians to connect 16 IEMs to one antenna creating a clean tech area that is conducive for a high profile show like the Glow In The Dark Tour. Clean frequencies can be searched within the system for the 16 IEMs and 4 HUB wireless 4000 Q units with the HiQnet feature as well.

“Among the countless features of the IVM 4 is the rechargeable battery for the in-ear monitoring system,” Kahn continues. “The rechargeable batteries are a great asset for a year-long tour as I never had to buy or change a battery. I never had to worry about a power failure as the system simply requires you to drop the belt packs and the handhelds into the re-charger, which fully charges them within one hour.”

Studer And JBL Create Natural Sound For 60th Annual Emmys

Based on its ability deliver a warm, transparent, and natural sound similar to that of an analog desk, Sweetwater Audio used the Studer Vista 8 console for the live broadcast of the 60th Annual EMMY® Awards telecast on Sunday, September 21 at the NOKIA Live Theater in Los Angeles, CA. Additionally, ATK/Audiotek deployed JBL VERTEC line arrays for the sound reinforcement system in the arena.

Soundcraft® Showcases Si3 Digital Console At Winter Namm 09

Currently riding high with tours and engineers thanks to the incredible success of the Vi Series digital consoles, Soundcraft is turning heads in many industries with the Si3 digital console.

This new desk is designed for live use on both touring sound systems and in fixed installations and its intuitive operation and high input and bus count makes it a perfect choice for house of worship sound systems. Theatre applications have also found the versatility and excellent sonic quality has been a tremendous upgrade to their sound system.

A distinct advantage of the Si3 is the single chassis construction which includes all input and output connections and the power supply – so it can literally drop in and replace an existing analog desk as almost certainly no additional cabling would be required to install it. This compact footprint desk can directly handle 64 mono inputs, four stereo inputs and has full connectivity for all 35 output busses (24 Aux/Group, eight Matrix and Left/Right/Centre mix buses), something you don’t find often on digital consoles at the price level of the Si3. Add to this four Lexicon® effects processors, 12 VCA groups, eight Mute groups and bar graph metering for all 35 bus outputs and you begin to see what a package the Si3 is.

So what about the operating surface, is it easy to use? The obvious lack of what is now standard fare on most digital consoles, a large central screen, brings hope that cumbersome centralized channel operation is a thing of the past, and indeed when you look at the controls in detail you see it may well be. Although the Si3 does have a small central touch screen, it is really there for console management, cue-lists, labelling etc. All the normal day-to-day mixing operations are carried out adjacent to the channel faders continuing Soundcraft and Studer’s philosophy of ‘where you look is where you control.’ An amazingly crisp and bright OLED display clearly shows important channel data for every fader on the desk, while in the centre section, OLEDs provide the same for the output faders.

Soundcraft has revisited the control topology employed on the ground-breaking Spirit 328 and 324 digital consoles, and made it even easier. The model is this - above each fader is a rotary encoder, the function of which changes according to the mode selected. This ‘bank’ of encoders, known as the VCS or Virtual Channel Strip can be set to control every function of a channel (known as Channel mode), so mic gain, EQ, dynamics, auxes, panning are all controlled as if you had a normal analogue channel strip laid sideways in front of you. The VCS also incorporates all the switching you would find on an individual analogue channel strip (48v, Phase Reverse, EQ in etc.). Alternatively, in what is called Global mode, each encoder controls the same function for each channel. So, for example, the encoders could control all the mic gains, pans or a chosen Aux bus (very useful for creating monitor mixes).

The encoder and OLED displays located in the output section are used primarily for output signal controls such as EQ, dynamics, Matrix contributions etc. but also double up as dedicated controls for the four onboard Lexicon processors.

When using the Lexicon processors, you can expand the controls to adjust virtually every parameter available, giving you outstanding control over the effects. Each of the four Lexicon engines can be assigned by the user to any channel. The gates and compressors, as you would expect, draw on the heritage of BSS Audio and dbx, Soundcraft’s sister companies within Harman.

The output encoders and OLEDs can also be assigned to control EQ and Dynamics control for any selected Input or Output channel for those who prefer central control.

Like its bigger sisters the Soundcraft Vi4 and Vi6, the Si3 uses the patented Soundcraft FaderGlow™ system to show what mode your faders are in, whether they are controlling inputs, aux or effects sends, bus outputs etc. For example, when faders are controlling Aux sends, the faders glow yellow, while for VCA’s they glow blue. In fact the colour codings closely follow the Soundcraft Vi6 setup, so engineers moving between consoles will be equally at home with both.

Complete desk settings may be stored as snapshots, as you would expect on a digital console, and these can then be sequenced from a Cue list on the central touch screen and controlled with dedicated snapshot automation buttons. Global snapshot filtering is also available.

Under the hood of the Si3 is an array of new technology, most notably EMMA, a single-board digital mixing console with an embedded operating system. This compact pcb holds not only the processing and DSP to run the mixer with its EQ and dynamics, but also four Lexicon AudioDNA chips to provide the Si3 with arguably the best effects available in the pro audio world. The team of developers at Soundcraft was responsible for the entire development and coding of this new mixing core which is also the base core of further new console designs already in development.

But how does it sound? Needless to say with the wealth of experience in digital platform development that Studer and Soundcraft have with the Vista and Soundcraft Vi Series, the Si3 has inherited the same sound quality pedigree, and coupled with company founder Graham Blyth’s talents in mic pre-amp design and the extensive development of the integral dynamics and gates and Lexicon FX, sound quality is a given.

On the rear of this highly-featured console are all the I/O connectors you’ll ever need. Sixty-four XLR’s for the mic/line inputs, four stereo line level inputs, 24 bus output XLR’s, eight matrix output XLR’s Left/Right/Centre mix output XLR’s, Left/Right/Centre monitor output XLR’s and comprehensive internal and external talkback and Oscillator connections. There are also eight analogue insert connections, which allow outboard processing to be inserted into any input channel output bus.

The power supply for the Si3 is integral to the chassis, and a secondary PSU module can be fitted for total redundancy. There are also four spare slots for other optional cards such as MADI interfaces or AES/EBU inputs.

Of course, the Si3 has been developed with Harman’s HiQnet™ networked audio system in mind, and connection to the HiQnet network is included.

The Soundcraft Si3 is bound to appeal to regional tour sound companies and regional theatres, medium sized houses of worship and corporate event sound companies.

New JBL LSR2300 Series Studio Monitors Deliver Professional Performance at Entry-Level Price Points

At Winter NAMM 2009, JBL Professional is introducing the new LSR2300 Series Studio Monitor System, delivering professional performance at price points within reach of any studio. The LSR2300 Series addresses the demand for cost-effective, high-performance monitoring systems, driven by the proliferation of affordable, computer-based production systems.

The LSR2300 Series includes: the LSR2328P Bi-Amplified 8-inch Studio Monitor with 160 Watts of amplification; the LSR2325P Bi-Amplified 5-inch Studio Monitor with 85 Watts of amplification; and the LSR2310SP Powered 10-inch Studio Subwoofer with an integrated 180 Watt power amplifier.

In developing the LSR2300 Series, JBL applied the same stringent Linear Spatial Reference criteria used in the design of the acclaimed LSR6300 and LSR4300 Series. While most manufacturers take only a single on-axis measurement of the speaker’s performance, JBL’s Linear Spatial Reference criteria requires 70 measurements, yielding more than 1,200 times more data. The data enables JBL to engineer a system that produces greater accuracy at the mix position. A trademark of LSR2300 design is the large waveguide and the elliptical tweeter aperture that work in conjunction with a 1” silk-substrate high-frequency transducer to deliver superior imaging and smoother frequency response.

Today’s music styles, film production and the demand for high-quality audio for HDTV require a monitor system capable of extended low frequency performance and high dynamic range. To address this, JBL engineered new long-excursion low-frequency transducers with high-flux motors and a custom tuned port that work in concert to produce deep accurate low frequency response, previously unavailable at this price point. The LSR2328P 8” model provides low frequency extension to 37Hz; the LSR2325P 5” model to 43Hz, and the LSR2310SP subwoofer provides deep low frequency performance below 29Hz.

Additionally, each model in the LSR2300 line produces exceptional sound pressure level (SPL) achieved through the use of high-sensitivity transducers and careful attention paid to the thermal properties of the system. Since heat is the enemy of output, the low frequency port doubles as a means of cooling the amplifier output devices. The LSR2328P bi-amplified 8-inch 2-way monitor for example, includes 160 Watts of amplification and is capable of a maximum peak SPL of 117 dB. All three LSR2300 models survived the torturous JBL power test in which the system is required to play at full rated output for 100 hours before becoming a production-ready design.

Featured to integrate into professional systems, all models include balanced XLR, ¼-inch, and unbalanced RCA inputs that allow connection to a wide range of playback sources including computer audio workstations, professional mixing consoles, as well as consumer playback systems. The LSR2310SP Subwoofer includes a 2-channel bass management system with selectable crossover settings and balanced outputs for integration of the sub into any system. LSR2325P and LSR2328P enclosures include mounting points and are reinforced for safe wall mounting. Transducers in all models are self-shielded to allow use in close proximity to magnetically-sensitive equipment.

“Our objective was to introduce a line that provides an unprecedented level of accuracy and performance at the price points. The new LSR2300 Series benefits from JBL’s 60 years of expertise and history of delivering premium studio monitors to the market,” said Peter Chaikin, Director of Recording and Broadcast Marketing, JBL Professional. “With the introduction of the affordable LSR2300 Series, it is now possible for any studio to have the JBL Professional quality and performance that have made our LSR6300 and LSR4300 models the choice of top engineers, artists and facilities worldwide.”

JBL Professional Showcases Next Generation Of EON® Portable Loudspeakers

At Winter NAMM 2009, JBL is showcasing the next generation of EON® portable loudspeakers. This includes five models spanning the new EON500 and EON300 series, all of which feature the trademark portability, versatility and reliability that made the original EON series the most groundbreaking and revolutionary product of its kind.

The new EON loudspeaker models feature deep-welled, full-size handles with ergonomically designed grip points. Combined with light weight and balanced weight distribution, the portability of speakers this size is unmatched. The new EON loudspeakers are also extremely versatile, offering flexible mounting capability, making the EON500 and EON300 series ideal for performing musicians, touring bands and mobile DJ’s. Lastly, the new EON loudspeakers offer a level of reliability that only JBL can provide, incorporating JBL’s legendary transducers and special limiter circuitry.

“JBL has developed the new EON500 and EON300 series loudspeakers with the same dedication to performance and reliability as the original generation of EON products, while increasing portability, through an even lighter system and designed ergonomics,” said Simon Jones, Director of Marketing, Portable PA, JBL Professional. “The addition of five new models, including a subwoofer, addresses a variety of applications and customer needs.”

The EON500 series features three new models: the EON515 and EON510 2-way powered speakers, and the EON518S subwoofer. Each of the full-range EON500 series compact, lightweight models features an on-board mini-mixer with loop-thru or mix-out capability, allowing for greater control of the loudspeaker’s output. The EON500 series loudspeakers also offer selectable EQ, multiple suspension points, soft-grip handle and a full screened backed grille for extra component protection. The EON500 series loudspeakers feature a combination of JBL’s patented engineered components, enabling a smaller enclosure and lighter weight than competitive models.

The EON515 and EON510 offer mic and line level inputs, as well as selectable system EQ, giving users a “loudness” type control and the ability to roll off the low frequency for maximum performance with a subwoofer or when used as a floor monitor. Both models feature one XLR/ quarter-inch combo connector and additional quarter-inch inputs providing input flexibility and the ability to mix multiple sources. Each loudspeaker features one XLR output where the output signal is selectable, either the whole mix may be looped to another speaker (or sent to a mixing console), or simply the primary input for traditional “daisy-chaining.”

The EON518S is the first true subwoofer in the EON family of products. It’s comprised of a single 18-inch Differential Drive woofer in a vented enclosure and powered by a 500/1000 watts (continuous/burst) amplifier. The EON518S features a pole mount cup for sub/satellite applications, level control, dual inputs, a stereo crossover network, peak limiter and polarity reverse switch. It also has a speaker level input increasing connectivity, flexibility and system configuration options.

The new EON300 series loudspeakers are the result of cutting-edge mechanical design and expertise in materials, making them as compact as possible but at significantly lighter weight than competitive models. Each of the EON300 series 2-way loudspeakers offers a high performance-to-price ratio, with a very simple user interface, along with multiple handles and suspension utility.

The EON315 15-inch 2-way loudspeaker system offers a total of 280/560 watts (continuous/burst) power and weighs a slight 35 pounds (15.9 kilograms). The EON315 features a 15-inch JBL woofer and a 1-inch exit compression driver with a neodymium motor on a 100 x 60-degree wave guide. The input is mic-line switchable and offers connectivity flexibility in the form of a balanced XLR/quarter-inch combo connector. The EON315 also features one XLR output to facilitate signal loop through.

The EON305 is a 15-inch passive 2-way loudspeaker featuring 250/500/1000 watts (continuous/program/peak) power handling. It offers a 15-inch JBL woofer and a 1-inch exit compression driver with a neodymium motor on a 100 x 60 wave guide. The inputs include two Speakon®/quarter-inch combo jacks linked in parallel. The EON305 is the perfect powered-mixer match, delivering all the fundamental EON attributes to a pre-existing system.

Harman Professional Debuts HiQnet System Architect™ Version 1.9: Adds New Troubleshooting, File Management, Customization Capabilities

Further advancing Harman HiQnet™ audio network configuration and control protocol, Harman Professional today launched HiQnet System Architect™ Version 1.9, a free download which delivers a host of new features including network troubleshooting tools, file compression and management and advanced control panel customization, to name just three. According to Rick Kreifeldt, Vice President, Harman Professional Systems Development & Integration Group (SDIG), today’s introduction comes just as the community of registered HiQnet System Architect users exceeds 20,000.

“It’s fitting that we pass the threshold of 20,000 registered users as we continue to add new features and improvements to System Architect,” Kreifeldt said today. “I believe our commitment to systematically evolve and improve System Architect is a key reason that audio professionals continue to deploy HiQnet systems in an expanding array of applications. The improvements do not stop here, however, and we will continue to listen to the community of contracting and tour sound professionals to make HiQnet System Architect the most current and progressive configuration and control tool available.”

As new members join the community of registered HiQnet users, Harman continues to add new devices to the HiQnet portfolio. Control of the three models of the new Crown I-Tech HD Series will be possible with the device plug-ins included with System Architect 1.9, which support the configuration of the FIR filters and LevelMAX™ limiters included in the new flagship touring amplifier, the algorithms for both of which were co-developed with BSS Audio. Currently, there are a total of 93 shipping HiQnet devices and a total of 66 System Architect-controlled devices.

Worldwide frequency restrictions and digital TV present a huge challenge for wireless systems operators, and to assist with keeping wireless technologies running, AKG has added the new ‘1 Click Setup’ to its System Architect HUB 4000 Q plug-in. With a single mouse click, the tool runs an extensive environment scan and calculates intermodulation-free frequencies for the entire wireless system on the fly.

High among the new additions is a Network Troubleshooting tool, which actively monitors the network, diagnoses and alerts of any problems and, where possible, automatically resolves the problem or, if manual intervention is required, provides specific instructions on how to address the problem. In addition to providing real-time monitoring and alerts, the tool also creates a backup log of any IP address changes which were made in the event that the previous configuration is required to be restored. One welcome use case will be for those less experienced with network configuration who have the frustrating situation of a HiQnet device being connected to the PC but not showing up in System Architect due to a network configuration error. The Network Troubleshooting tool will see the device, and work with the user to resolve the issue in a few simple steps.

Also new to Version 1.9 is a compressed file format which dramatically reduces file sizes - in test cases as high as a ratio of 100:1. Separately, a new utility installed with System Architect 1.9 enables advanced users to expand and explore the contents of a saved file and thereby edit individual custom panels in an XML editor, and update images offline, etc. The same utility recompresses the file for opening again in System Architect.

Working closely with the user-base of tour sound and contracting professionals, SDIG engineers have carefully enhanced the Custom Control Panel design experience. This includes a more automated mechanism of creating controls on a panel and assigning them to system-wide parameters. By dragging any device parameter from the System Explorer tree or Advanced Parameter Search utility and dragging onto a Custom Control Panel in the design environment, the user will be prompted with a concise list of only the appropriate controls to which it can be assigned. In user tests this mechanism has proved a significant impact on the time taken to create Custom Control Panels. The same mechanism has been implemented for enhancing Custom Control Panel navigation panel: shortcut controls can instantly be placed on a Custom Control Panel simply by dragging the appropriate panel icon from the panel toolbox.

Other Custom Control Panel additions include a freshly-designed Parameter Address Editor dialog, which primarily provides a mechanism for editing parameter assignments of pre-existing controls, but the layout of which is also perfectly suited to enabling fresh parameter assignments. SDIG has also added the ability to copy and paste just the visual elements of a control without copying any parameter assignment. Together these enhancements serve to speed up not just the functional design process of a panel, but also the visual design element.

Additional user interface enhancement includes new window management improvements, offering menus to cascade all open windows or select an active window from a list. Concentrating further on user experience and interaction, a Device Arrange Tool in the Venue View enables the reordering of a selection of devices by device name, device type, device address or device brand.