Yogesh Dhawan Enjoys Soundcraft® Si3’s Versatility

Soundcraft’s new Si3 digital desk is receiving high exposure on the Indian sub-continent, thanks to the support of New-Delhi based rental company, Dhawan Electricals Pvt Ltd.

Having already used the board to mix one of India’s leading rock bands Agnee this autumn, sound engineer Yogesh Dhawan, says that the Si3 has subsequently enjoyed a heavy tour of duty.

“Pathways World School went crazy when I told them that we were going digital for this year’s Annual Day,” he said.

The two-day Founders Weekend at the exclusive school in early December featured non-stop entertainment on its 30-acre campus, under the theme of the school’s motto: Learn, Work, Play, Think, LIVE!

The sound engineer had good reason for fielding the Si3. Over the weekend of festivities he ended up making around 25 cues for each event and used almost 37 channels on the board as a programme of Indian classical music, orchestras, theatre (involving many lapel mics) and award ceremonies unfolded.

“I was so comfortable with the Si3 that throughout the programme all I needed to do was push the ‘Next’ button and I was sorted,” he said.

Another successful show with the Si3 took place at the Ramlila Grounds for Dr. Paul Dhinakaran of the Jesus Saves Society. This time the Si3 was used as a monitor console for the prayer festival. Says Yogesh, “I didn’t know whether the Si3 was also designed to mix monitors — but I never thought twice about its capabilities and had a wonderful time working with it.

“I ended up using more than half the board for the gala of instruments and choir on stage for this event — which went on for three days.”

Finally, a show for the Spanish Embassy at the Lotus Temple in New Delhi — one of seven Baha'i Houses of Worship in the world — also saw an induction on the Soundcraft board by sound engineer Javi Ustara.

Although he had happily experienced Soundcraft’s larger Vi6 he was initially hesitant to use the Si3 until Yogesh provided a quick tour. “He was working on the sound in no time and was delighted with the quality of the sound.”

With its easy operation and generous input and bus count the Si3 was perfect for all Yogesh’s needs — whether at front-of-house or at the stage end.

Audioco of Mexico Adopts Soundcraft Si3® Console

Professional audio systems provider Audioco of Mexico City recently purchased a Soundcraft Si3 console, and has since deployed the Si3 for a variety of events and different size venues.

According to Jose Antonio Chapa, President of Audioco, the Si3 boasts a variety of attractive features and functions. “The EQ is very precise and powerful, and the gates and compressors are incredible,” Chapa says. “The preamps are powerful but silent. The FaderGlow™ feature makes it easy to tell where you are working, and with the OLED screens you will never get lost.”

Audioco’s first deployment of the Si3 was at the Metropolitan Theater in Mexico City, where pop artist Maria Jose performed to a capacity crowd of 3,500. After the concert, Maria was complimentary of the Si3: “Awesome, very commendable,” she said.

Even more importantly, the engineers using the Si3 on a constant basis have been very pleased. “I’ve noticed that all the engineers really like the OLED screens,” Chapa notes. “Since you have all the information you need right above each fader, it’s very easy to understand all the information.”

Chapa also finds a distinctive advantage in the Si3’s “Both Rows” feature. “Having all 24 aux sends together allows me to send any channel to multiple mixes with one hand, in no time,” he says. “Additionally, having the 35-bus graphic EQ, always ready on every single output, makes mixing very simples. The built-in Lexicon effects are simply perfect. It’s like a 480 studio effects processor at your fingertips. And now, with the new software, the Si3 is now able to manage analog and digital inputs. With this, the Si3 is getting more versatile and powerful.”

Vocalist® Announces The New Live 3, A 3-Part Vocal Harmonizer And Pitch Correction Pedal For Guitarists

DigiTech®, a leading manufacturer of vocal processors, and a Harman International company (NYSE-HAR), has announced the newest addition to the Vocalist® product line, the Live 3. The Live 3 provides guitarists a 3-part vocal harmony, pitch correction, and vocal pre-effects in a single pedal.

The new Vocalist Live 3 is a powerful yet easy-to-use intelligent vocal harmony processor that automatically generates live multi-part vocal harmony by analyzing guitar chord progressions and the lead voice. The Live 3 gives virtually all artists, soloists and groups alike the ability to perform more songs that in the past had been considered too difficult without professionally trained backup vocalists.

The Live 3 combines studio-quality audio performance, state-of-the-art vocal processing, and an easy-to-use control interface to add up to two separate voices of harmony to a lead vocal to create a full 3-part, natural-sounding vocal performance. The Live 3 has Gender Control that gives each harmonizing voice a masculine or feminine sound. Users can customize the natural sound of the harmonizing voices from loose to tight by adjusting the Humanize setting.

Using patented musIQ® technology, the Live 3 continually follows the notes being played on the guitar and the lead voice to generate accurate and musically correct vocal harmonies. musIQ eliminates the need to pre-program the songs’ key or key changes to create get accurate harmonies, making the Live 3 much easier to use.

“The Live 3 is the tool performers are searching for to capture the audiences’ attention and take their performance to the next level.” stated Scott Klimt, Marketing Manager for Vocalist.

The Live 3 is designed to enhance and improve virtually every vocal performance using pitch-correction with Humanize Control and vocal pre-effects. The pitch correction in the Live 3 has the most natural sound available on the market. There are also five different vocal pre-effects available in the Live 3 to help give the vocals a high quality, professional-grade studio sound. These effects include warmth (tube preamp), compression, EQ, and Noise Gate. There are three different room settings for reverb and five separate delay settings for vocals. The Live 3 also has guitar effects, reverb and chorus along with a guitar tuner.

The Vocalist Live 3 is now shipping with a MSRP of $429.95.

DigiTech® Revamps Legendary RP Series With Five New Pedals

DigiTech®, a leading manufacturer of guitar, bass, and vocal processors, and a Harman International company (NYSE-HAR), is introducing five new pedals in a complete upgrade to its popular RP series. With the introduction of the RP 55, RP155, RP255, RP355, and RP1000 DigiTech has thought of every guitarist from the beginner to seasoned musician.

The RP Multi-Effect processors offer tone and effects libraries with up to 200 factory and user-programmable presets, as well as 24-bit A/D/A conversion and built-in tuners. Selected models feature AudioDNA®2 DSP, USB connectivity, built-in drum machines and include library and editing software for PC and Mac®.

The base level RP55 features 80 presets, a built-in drum machine and chromatic tuner. It has 12 amp and acoustic guitar models and can produce 10 effects at once. It has an MSRP of $79.95.

The RP155 gives the user 100 presets, 60 high quality drum patterns and 83 amp, cabinets, stompboxes, and effects. It also features a 20 second looper for on the fly writing and live performance. It has an MSRP of $159.95.

The RP255 offers 120 presets, 94 amps, cabinets, stompboxes, and effects, and also has a 20 second looper for on the fly writing and live performance. The RP255 also has a built in expression pedal and packaged with Cubase® LE4 recording software included. It has an MSRP of $229.95.

The higher level RP355 has 140 presets, 126 amps, cabinets, stompboxes, and effects, and also has a 20 second looper for on the fly writing and live performance. It has a built in expression pedal and is packaged with Cubase LE4 recording software making it perfect for computer recording and writing. It has an MSRP of $309.95.

The most advanced pedal in the series, the RP1000 features 200 presets, external amplifier loop, external stompbox loop switches, external stompboxes, and effects in and out of the effect chain. The amp/cabinet bypass feature defeats the unit’s internal amplifiers and cabinet effects leaving only stompboxes and gear inside the amp and stompbox loop. It has an MSRP of $699.95.

Crown’s Advanced Technology and Engineering Behind New Category Defining XLS Series Amplifiers

For their market category and price points, Crown’s new XLS Series of amplifiers offer an unprecedented level of performance, configuration flexibility, and user-friendly features. The following points summarize key technology breakthroughs and refinements behind these benefits.

Integrated Digital Crossover and Limiter

Most amplifiers in this market category provide limited facilities, if any, for input signal filtering and driver protection. (Typical offerings are simple analog high-pass filters and a limiter, usually selected via rear-panel DIP switches.) In contrast, the new XLS Series utilizes high-resolution digital signal processing to implement a flexible PureBand™ Crossover System and proprietary PeakX™ driver protection limiting.

Using the easy-to-read front panel LCD display and large function buttons, users can select crossover points from 50 Hz to 3 kHz on 1/12 octave centers, allowing precise matching of specified crossover points on most bi-amplified loudspeakers. Filters are fourth-order Linkwitz-Riley, with steep slopes for seamless transition between high and low drivers. Alternatively, the digital filters may be set to optimize both amplifier channels for driving either high- or low-frequency loads, or for driving full-range systems.

The PeakX limiters utilize highly effective yet sonically transparent algorithms derived from the OmniDrive HD loudspeaker drive processing in Crown’s flagship I-Tech HD Series. By precisely matching response to the output characteristics of each amplifier, PeakX enables significantly higher output levels than are possible with conventional analog limiting, yet with assured driver protection. The front panel soft-touch buttons also select limiter on/off (per channel) as well as bridge-mode on/off. There are no rear-panel DIP switches.

Advanced Switched-mode Power Supply

A highly efficient switching power supply is optimized for maximum power transfer from the AC line through the Class D output stage to the loudspeakers. Compared to older, 60Hz transformer-based power supplies, a side benefit is substantial weight reduction: all models weigh less than 12 pounds, but with no compromise of Crown’s traditionally robust build quality.

Proprietary Class D Output Stage with Integrated DriveCore™ Technology

As a type, Class D amplifiers are notable for extraordinarily high efficiency, approaching 90%.  In addition, inherently low output impedance makes Class D well suited to driving difficult reactive loads such as subwoofers. However, a number of complexities make it difficult to design – and to manufacture at modest cost – real-world Class D amplifiers with sonic performance comparable to the best Class AB designs. In addition, as a type, Class D output stages are highly dependent on stable internal voltage rails, and can suffer impaired performance on marginal or unstable AC line supplies.

To overcome these obstacles, Crown engineers designed DriveCore™ - a proprietary hybrid analog-digital integrated circuit (IC) that drives the “front end” of the Class D output stage. Placed in the signal chain between the DSP module and the main power output devices, and driven fully balanced from the D-to-A converter stage, DriveCore incorporates highly refined feedback circuits and a single synchronous clock. (The DSP and switch-mode power supply clocks are both synchronized to the PWM master clock for optimum overall system stability.) Crown’s proprietary circuit-modeling techniques were employed to optimize the relationship between the new modulator chip and the power output stage. Here, Crown engineers applied the latest in power FET semiconductor technology, along with an advanced differential drive circuit topology, to offer the efficiency of Class D but with the lower distortion and residual noise typical of Class AB designs.

Other notable technology features and benefits of DriveCore Technology:
•    Patented feedback and PWM modulation circuits enable fast recovery on peak transients, accurate reproduction of low-level detail, and precise tracking of low frequencies at high power levels for maximum subwoofer output.
•    Integrated thermal management and protection systems ensure maximum power is delivered to the load with minimum stress on output devices.
•    Advanced power supply design coupled with a wide-tolerance PWM clock maintains full performance even with sagging or “dirty” AC line conditions. The new proprietary modulator chip can handle large (up to 3:1) variations in power supply noise or sag without adversely affecting audio quality. Consequently, compared to other Class D amplifiers in this market category, performance is far less likely to be compromised by fluctuating generator power or by AC circuits sagging from marginal overloading by lighting rigs, backline gear, etc. (Prior to this development, the only way to maintain consistent performance was use of more complex – and costlier –  regulated power supplies.)

Designed and Tested for Reliability

The new XLS Series of amplifiers were subjected to the same rigorous design analysis and prototype testing procedures as all Crown amplifiers, regardless of application or price point. Finite element analysis (FEA) tools simulated design behavior to optimize mechanical and thermal systems for cooler, more reliable operation in warm and high-humidity environments. All XLS Series amplifiers must pass Crown’s uniformly rigorous quality control procedures before shipping.

“The Green Edge”

XLS Series amplifiers conform to the goals of the Harman Professional Group’s “Green Edge” environmental initiative. New, high-technology circuit components not only use fewer resources in manufacturing, but also contribute to significant weight reductions that result in less energy consumption for initial shipping and end-user transportation. At the same time, extremely high operating efficiency translates into less AC line current used for each watt of output. The result is a significantly reduced “carbon footprint.”

Crown Introduces PIP-USP4 Processor For CTs Series Amplifiers

Delivering unprecedented power and flexibility while offering clear sound and the widest dynamic range possible, Crown today introduced the PIP-USP4, the fourth generation DSP-based PIP™ (programmable input processor) module for CTs Series 2-channel amplifiers.  The USP4 is a Harman HiQnet™ series component and connects to the audio control/monitor network using 100MB Ethernet hardware.  The single plug solution contains audio distribution, control and monitoring.    

“We are proud to bring the same next generation OMNIDRIVEHDTM DSP Engine that is featured in our I-Tech HD line to the PIP-USP4.  This technology represents what will soon become known as the industry standard and we will continue to implement it for the ultimate in processing for other Crown products,” stated Brian Divine, director of marketing for touring and installed sound for Crown.

The USP4’s OMNIDRIVEHD™ processor gives the user ultra smooth processing with 24-bit, 192 kHz Cirrus Logic SHARC A/D and D/A converters and true 96kHz processing.  LevelMAX™peak, RMS and transducer thermal voltage limiters combine for a smooth and accurate response, better sound and higher usable SPL.  Also available are proprietary FIR and IIR filters for unmatched clarity and detail.  The USP4 is capable of connecting to an Ethernet network, allowing it to be remotely controlled and configured via HiQnet System Architect™.  Additionally, the USP4 allows the transport of real-time digital audio via CobraNet™ or Ethernet AVB. 

A digital audio on/off ramp allows users to send pre or post processed analog signal out of the module to adjacent amplifiers.  This capability can reduce DSP cost for a system by up to 40% on its own.

Other features of the PIP-USP4 include auto standby for increased energy efficiency, SLM (sweep load monitoring) with system-level diagnostics, 25 user selectable presets and over two seconds of delay per channel.  Available input options include analog, CobraNet or Ethernet AVB, and AES3 Digital Audio. 

Lone Star College-North Harris Campus Outfits Classrooms And Labs With Hitachi CP-X615 And CP-X417 3LCD Projectors

Campus Decision Makers Cite Reliability, Maintenance And Networking Capability As The Basis For Purchasing The Hitachi Projectors

The Lone Star College-North Harris campus in Texas recently purchased 147 Hitachi 3LCD projectors for its classrooms and labs, in an effort to provide students with state-of-the-art presentation technology for a more dynamic learning experience. Troxell Communications sold and installed the projectors throughout the Lone Star College-North Harris campus. The majority of the projectors are the CP-X615 and CP-X417 models.

The Lone Star College System is a publicly supported, 2-year comprehensive community college system, involving diverse individuals, businesses, and the community in quality education opportunities for the successful development of knowledge, skills, and attitudes for a rapidly changing world. The North Harris campus, nestled on 200 acres of piney woods, is the original college in the Lone Star College System family. Celebrating 36 years of service in 2009, LSC-North Harris opened its doors in 1973 and offers more than 80 programs of study, including university-transfer and numerous workforce education courses and programs. Lone Star College-North Harris is keenly focused on leading-edge technology in emerging technical job fields.

According to Butch Juelg, director of technology services for the Lone Star College-North Harris campus, the decision to purchase Hitachi projectors was rooted in reliability, easy maintenance and networking capability, all of which contribute to an overall lower cost of ownership. “Hitachi has made significant improvements over the years with regards to ease of maintenance, such as bulb replacement and filter cleaning when mounted to the ceiling in our classrooms,” Mr. Juelg said. “Because we are able to network the projectors, we have a central control system that allows us to monitor bulb life and be proactive on maintenance, such as the cleaning of the filters. If something malfunctions when a projector is in use, the class will never get that time back, therefore, it is extremely important that we have reliable equipment and a great monitoring system. Hitachi projectors help us do that each and every day throughout our campus.”

The Hitachi CP-X615 and CP-417 3LCD projectors offer built-in networking, which allows for the monitoring and management of one or more projectors from a remote location. With Hitachi’s proprietary PJ Man software, users can easily monitor the status of the projector (or many projectors), such as power on/off, input source, lamp/filter hours and condition. In addition, the software allows for control over these functions. Users can also schedule power on/off events on an hourly, daily and weekly basis. Events can be applied to an individual or group of Hitachi projectors. Other features such as e-mail alerts for scheduled maintenance or error conditions, as well as password protection, give the user a new level of control at no extra charge.

With technology becoming ever more ubiquitous in day-to-day life, the implementation of projection technology at Lone Star is also a response to the growing technological savvy of the average student. “Students today need to be actively engaged in the learning process with both verbal instruction and visual instruction,” Mr. Juelg noted. “It is important to provide our faculty with the tools that allow them to provide this type of instruction to the students, which in turn provides a higher degree of understanding among the students.”

What’s more, to help bring the faculty up to speed with the new technology, Mr. Juelg and his team created quick reference guides for each classroom and lab, while also offering a wide variety of training opportunities to members of the staff that use the equipment.

“With 60 percent of our faculty being part-time, we needed to make the operation of the AV systems in the rooms as seamless as possible,” Mr. Juelg added. “These faculty members are only on campus for one or two classes each week, usually in the evenings, so training opportunities are scarce at best. We were able to combine the features of the Hitachi projectors with an AV control system to give them an extremely easy system to learn and operate.”

For more information on Troxell Communications, please visit www.trox.com

Pauler Installs Vista 5 In Stockfisch Recording Studio

For more than 30 years Günter Pauler’s Stockfisch Records label has been aimed at audiophile fans of guitar-oriented singer-songwriters and revivalists on its label — harking back to the 1970’s. Many of the artists include European musicians as well as American expats — with well known names rubbing shoulders with new discoveries. And their CD’s are recorded in Günter’s Pauler Acoustics studio.

With acoustic guitarists constantly striving to have their artistry recorded dynamically and transparently, the studio maintains a policy of conscientious selection of its studio equipment.

Recently they opted to purchase a Studer Vista 5 mixing console from the company’s German distributors, Audio Pro Heilbronn, which will be used for all their in-house productions. Special attention was therefore given to the quality of the sound as well as the intuitive control surface.

After the first recording sessions, Günter Pauler could not have been more positive. "The aural characteristics of this desk are outstanding — the Vista 5 delivers soft transparency, with a spatial resolution that I have never experienced before on a digital desk.

“What particularly inspires me is that on every channel there is a parallel compressor, which in its control mode stands comparison with the best-known American analogue compressors.”

The Vista 5 is based on the Vistonics™ control interface, which offers visual reference at the exact place at which a parameter is changed. This makes for a very flexible and fast working mixing surface. The inputs and outputs as well as the entire DSP capacity are completely scalable and can be adapted to suit the individual needs.

Pauler Acoustics use principally AES/EBU and MADI digital interfaces, over which the mic preamp and recording system operate.

Already, within a few weeks of the Vista 5’s installation the first CD has been released — Paul O' Brien’s Walk Back Home.

La Joya Community High School Students Put Hitachi StarBoards To The Test

Advanced Placement Biology Students Develop Final Presentations With Hitachi Interactive WhiteBoards

Hitachi, a leader in educational technology, has been chosen to provide interactive whiteboards for the La Joya Community High School in Avondale, Arizona. The school is deploying the Hitachi FXDUO-77 model StarBoards, along with the award-winning Hitachi CP-A100 3LCD ultra-short-throw projector, as part of the Hitachi CPA100+FXDUO bundle.  Furthermore, advanced placement biology students are using the StarBoards as a tool to help facilitate their final exam presentations.

Mike Grace, advanced placement biology teacher at La Joya Community High School, explained the program he developed for his students. “After the students finished with the preparation for their advanced placement exam, we still had some time left in the school year.  Instead of giving the class a traditional written final, I decided to split them into groups for final presentations on specific topics using the StarBoard,” stated Grace.

The presentations on various biology topics were meant to display not only the student’s knowledge of a particular area of science, but also their competency with using all the features of the StarBoard. “We had a representative from Troxell come in and give our students a full training so they would understand all the capabilities of the board and what they would be expected to demonstrate with their presentations.  Students were expected to give up to a 15 minute presentation on their topic that would demonstrate the StarBoard Software, use of video, and links to educational sites online,” added Grace.

One of the stipulations of the assignment was that students whom excelled with their presentations would agree to return to Grace’s class the following year to train new students on how to use the StarBoard.  “This was a great way for students to really learn and engage with the technology.  Additionally, taking the next step and having our older students train our younger students is far more effective because the kids understand the technology better than anyone,” stated Grace.

“As a district, we chose the Hitachi StarBoard for the service and training support we received, along with the competitive pricing.  We have deployed StaBoards in many classrooms within the district and our long term goal is to standardize our district technology with additional interactive whiteboard technology from Hitachi,” stated David Sanders, director of information technology for the Tolleson Union High School District.

For more information on Troxell Communications, visit www.trox.com.

Crown Amplifies Tour Sound For The Biggest Names In Music Throughout The World In 2009

With artists like Bruce Springsteen, Taylor Swift, U2 and Metallica deploying Crown amplifiers live in concert this year, 2009 proved to be another landmark year for Crown International. Crown reaffirmed itself as the leading provider in high-end amplifiers for the touring market with the introduction of I-Tech HD and laid the groundwork for success that will carry throughout 2010.

Nowhere was Crown more influential than the concert for the 25th anniversary of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in October. There, audio installation company Firehouse Productions used 96 Crown I-Tech 12000HD amps for rock and roll legends Metallica, Stevie Wonder, U2 and more. System engineer Mark Dittmar selected the Crown amps for their ability to provide high amounts of power and clarity efficiently and for Linear Phase FIR filters that offer unrivaled crossover performance for sonically pure tunings.

“With the lineup of rock and roll legends that we had for the 25th anniversary concert, we knew we needed a sound system that was versatile but powerful at the same time,” Dittmar said. “With the combination of Crown and JBL, we had more than enough power and clarity, and the whole system was extremely efficient.”

This wasn’t the first time that Firehouse turned to Crown at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. At the induction ceremony for Jeff Beck, Run DMC, and Metallica last April, Firehouse used a series of I-Tech HD powered amplifiers to power a PA system in delivering songs from high-profile musicians, including Jimmy Page, Ron Wood, and Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Another established superstar that turned to Crown this year was Taylor Swift. Sound engineer Russell Fischer used a combination of 80 I-Tech HD amplifiers at all 52 concerts of the tour. As a loyal Crown customer that has been turning to Crown since the DC series, Fischer was very familiar with the sonic integrity that Crown is famous for, and he was very satisfied to experience the reliability and sonic quality that came with the I-Tech HD series.

“We at Crown have been satisfying the power-needs of musicians for decades, and 2009 was no different,” said Brian Divine, Director of Touring for Crown. “We were used in some of the most high-profile concerts of the year, we came out with some great new products, and we were able to satisfy all of the needs of our existing customers. We are very excited about the success we had this year and we are looking forward to bringing it through to 2010.”

Another leading performer experiencing success with Crown on tour is Bruce Springsteen. In 2009, he turned again to Crown for power on his Working on Dream Tour.   Sound reinforcement company Audio Analysts provided Springsteen with a series of 36 I-Tech 5000HDs and 18-Tech 12000HD amplifiers for his 45-show tour. With decades of experience with Crown amplifiers, Springsteen was very familiar with Crown’s precise algorithms, and with the new generation of amplifiers, he wasn’t disappointed.

“We are proud to say we have been working with Bruce for the last 17 years,” said Albert Leccese, Vice President of Engineering for Audio Analysts. “Bruce works very hard to deliver an exciting, high-energy performance and he has the highest expectations for his band and everyone else involved in the show’s production, including his sound company. The Crown I-Tech HD is a testament to this attitude, which validates our continued support for our clients. Audio Analysts strives for innovative technologies that reinforce our efforts to supply our clients with the best equipment at a fair price.”

BSS Audio® Adds Telephone Hybrid Card Option To Soundweb™ London Conferencing Solution

BSS Audio®, a Harman International Company (NYSE-HAR), today added the Soundweb™ London Telephone Hybrid Card to its conferencing portfolio. The new Soundweb London Telephone Hybrid Card complements the highly-regarded Soundweb London AEC Input Card and the two cards represent a highly-integrated, premium solution for conferencing applications.

The Soundweb London Telephone Hybrid Cards are designed to populate any of the four card slots on Soundweb London BLU-800, BLU-320, BLU-160 and BLU-120 devices. These cards enable Soundweb London devices to interface with a standard POTS (aka PSTN or Analog PBX) telephone network and feature line and parallel set connections. The members of the Soundweb London family provide the building blocks of the perfectly tailored system solution.

The Soundweb London Telephone Hybrid Cards also have two analog inputs which allow each Telephone Hybrid Card to receive two microphone or line level signals. These analog inputs offer Phantom Power, configurable per channel and software controlled analog gain in 6dB steps from 0dB to 48dB.

HiQnet™ London Architect v2.08, which provides support for the Soundweb London Telephone Hybrid, offers a fully-featured integrated dialer, speed dial presets and Auto Answer control. All important buttons and feedback from the dialer are accessible from external control and third-party control systems, without the requirement of a PC on the network.

Iain Gregory, market manager for installed sound at Harman Music Group stated, “The Soundweb London Telephone Hybrid Card complements the superbly-performing and already highly-regarded Soundweb London AEC Input Card perfectly. With the reach of Soundweb London extended into conferencing applications, contractors and system integrators are able to leverage existing infrastructure, reduce implementation time and provide a powerful and truly integrated audio solution, using a single platform.”

AKG Introduces Its Comprehensive Line Of Perception Live Series Microphones At Winter NAMM

In an introduction that provides the industry’s most dynamic sound quality for both vocal and lead instrument recording applications, AKG is bringing its Perception Live series of microphones to the MI market at Winter NAMM this January. Providing a balanced output on a 3-pin male XLR connector, the Perception Live series comes complete with the P2, P4, P3S, and the P5 series of microphones, and can be used as a solution for any vocal or instrument application, for both live and recorded sound.

As AKG’s most comprehensive line of microphones, the Perception Live series can be used in any situation to satisfy any need. The P2, P4, and P3S are all dynamic instrument microphones that come with a cardioid polar pattern and carrying case, with the P2 being suited for any kick drum, bass amp or wind instrument. The P4 has a special H 440 bracket case and can be used for toms, percussion, guitar amps and wind instruments, while the P3S comes with a special SA 45 stand adapter and is primarily suited for instruments and backing vocals.

“The Perception Series is AKG’s most comprehensive microphone line to date,” said Joseph Wagoner, AKG’s Product Manager for Tour and Installed Sound. “With the updated Perception Live Series of microphone, AKG is providing the musical instrument industry with an affordable solution for any recording or live sound application.”

In addition to the P2, P4, and P3S, the Perception Live series also includes the super-cardioid polar pattern P5 and comes complete with a carrying case and an SA 45 Stand adapter.  The P5 provides an unparalleled level of versatility and sonic integrity that leave it perfectly suited to handle any and all reproduction of solo vocals.

“Not only is the Perception Live series the perfect answer for all live/onstage applications, but it can also be used for any recording as well,” continued Wagoner. “For on stage performances, the Perception Live microphone features an appealing and scratch resistant finish, high maximum SPL capability and delivers a powerful sound for any venue.”

AKG Integrates The DMS 700 Into Its System Architect Plug-In For Full HiQnet™ Compatibility

In an introduction that couples AKG’s legendary wireless performance with Harman System Architect’s ease of use, AKG recently updated its System Architect plug-in for the HUB 4000 Q to version 3.5 with the introduction of the Harman System Architect 2.1 release.

The professional digital wireless microphone system DMS 700 is now fully integrated into System Architect. Users have the ability to setup and monitor multichannel DMS 700 systems with tools such as 1 Click Setup, RF Monitor, Environment Scan and Offline Configuration. With AKG’s 1 Click Setup, the frequency coordination of DMS 700 multichannel systems can be done with ease with just a single click.

The 1 Click Setup is easy and straightforward and allows for optimal frequency coordination for most of AKG’s wireless systems. With a single click, the algorithm completes a full frequency coordination by performing an environment/frequency scan, calculating the inter-modulation-free frequencies for each device and programming each device automatically.

The new upgrade allows AKG’s professional wireless systems – including the DMS 700, the WMS 4000/4500 as well as the IVM 4 – to be completely integrated with Harman’s new System Architect™ 2.1. The new System Architect Plug-In allows anyone who has an AKG wireless system equipped with the HUB 4000 Q and System Architect to be prepared for any future wireless implementation.

Harman HiQnet™ is the world's first connectivity and control protocol that integrates all product categories in the signal chain for professional audio systems of all types, size, and applications. Harman HiQnet no longer requires the user to manage multiple disparate operating systems or be responsible for programming individual signal processors, speaker controllers, wireless microphone systems, and mixing consoles. HiQnet was developed by engineers from across the Harman Pro Group and is coordinated by the System Development and Integration Group (SDIG), a team of dedicated systems specialists based in Salt Lake City, Utah.

AKG To Receive Technical Grammy® Award For Contribution To Recording Arts And Sciences

In recognition of more than 60 years contribution to the art and science of music recording and performance, storied microphone and headphone innovator, AKG was recently named to receive a prestigious technical Grammy® award from the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences (NARAS).  The award, which will be presented at this coming Grammy Week in Los Angeles in January 2010, represents an historic first in AKG’s history of firsts — not simply in terms of technology innovations, but also in great recordings and performances.

From The Beatles’ watershed performances in Shea Stadium in 1967 to Aerosmith, the Rolling Stones, Frank Sinatra,  and today’s most progressive and successful artists like Jay Z, Missy Elliot and Kayne West, AKG microphones and headphones have provided great sounding technologies to support the most demanding and creative projects.

AKG is in good company, with this year's only other GRAMMY Technical Award to be presented posthumously to Thomas Edison, inventor of the phonograph, early motion picture technologies, and the incandescent light bulb.  Harman's JBL brand also earned a GRAMMY Technical Award in 2005, the first and only loudspeaker manufacturer to be so honored.  Founded in 1947, AKG has been providing state-of-the-art microphones and headphones for a variety of live and recording applications.

"This year's honorees are a prestigious group of diverse and prominent creators who have contributed some of the most distinguished and influential recordings," said Recording Academy President/CEO Neil Portnow. "Their outstanding accomplishments and passion for their craft have created a timeless legacy that has positively affected multiple generations, and will continue to influence generations to come. It is an honor and privilege to recognize such talented individuals who have had and will continue to have such an influence in both our culture and the music industry."

"We are humbled by this recognition from the recording industry's preeminent organization," said Dinesh C. Paliwal, Harman International Chairman, President and CEO. "Our AKG products have long supported the industry's leading artists and technicians, and we are honored to share the spotlight with them at the legendary Grammy Awards."

This year, AKG continued it’s tradition of innovation; introducing some of their most advanced microphones and headphones to date. With the release of the Perception 120 USB in September, AKG gave users the ability to record studio-quality sound from their desktop; with the C 414 XLS and XL II, they introduced two of the most sensitive and versatile microphones available; and with the DMS 700, AKG presented their first digital wireless audio system.

“From its formation many years ago, AKG has been singularly committed to quality,” said Alfred Reinprecht, AKG Vice President of Marketing and Product Management.  “It is not surprising, therefore, that so many quality recording artists, producers and engineers have gravitated to AKG and made our microphones and headphones the tools of their trade and the instruments of their craft.  To be awarded this prestigious and rare honor is recognition of the wonderfully creative and committed people who have designed and built AKG products for more than half a century and to the loyal customers who have partnered with us to make our best products even better!”

Everyone at AKG is honored to be recognized by The Recording Academy for Technical Achievement,” “Since the company was founded in 1947, AKG has been dedicated to producing the highest quality microphones and headphones with the most advanced recording technology. This award not only signifies our ability to do so, but it also validates AKG as one of the leading international providers in audio equipment.”

AKG Brings Its Digital Automatic Microphone Mixer To The Studio With The Introduction Of The DMM 4/2/4 At Winter NAMM

AKG is introducing the next addition to its long line of automatic microphone mixers as it presents the DMM 4/2/4 at Winter NAMM in January. Designed as a studio version of the DMM 4/2/2, the DMM 4/2/4 is designed with a unique and highly effective mixing algorithm that gives it the flexibility to handle nearly any mixing application, from boardrooms to broadcast studios and even houses of worship.

The DMM 4/2/4 comes complete with four microphone and two stereo AUX inputs, intelligent mixing algorithms with a noise sensitive threshold to prevent accidental activation of input channels, and a digital signal processor with a dbx® compressor. Each channel on the processor offers switchable gain, switchable phantom power, and an incremental level control with peak hold display, and each system comes with an expansion connector that enables multiple mixers to be linked together for larger audio setups. All functions are run through incremental controls on the front panel which use the intuitive central control concept, similar to the DMM 4/2/2.

“The DMM 4/2/4 is one of AKG’s most exciting mixer to date,” said Mario Siokola, AKG’s Product Marketing Manager Installed Sound. “It has the functionality to be used in virtually any mixing environment, the flexibility to address a wide range of audio needs, and the engineering to process even the most advanced algorithms; and for the price, it simply can’t be beat.”

One of the most unique aspects of the DMM 4/2/4 is the fact that the mixing algorithm also includes a “Last Mic On” function and a “Best Mic On” function; using shiny blue LED’s to alert the user of both. Other new features that were not present in the predecessor include a headphone output and a PC interface, with remote control software that will be available shortly.

“The DMM 4/2/4 is taking the sonic integrity of the famed DMM 4/2/2 and bringing it a few steps further,” continued Siokola. “In addition to the advanced functions of the mixer, it also satisfied all of the aesthetic requirements and comes complete with full 19-inch metal housing and is rack-mountable.”

Soundcraft Showcases Next-Generation Notepad Series At Winter NAMM 2010

Soundcraft is releasing a new range of small multipurpose mixers, some with integral digital FX, bearing the name of the now-legendary Notepad series. The new Notepad 102, 124 and 124 FX models boast Soundcraft audio performance with the acclaimed GB30 mic preamp and EQ technology in a highly compact and solid chassis.

Each 124 model has four mono mic/line inputs while the Notepad 102 has two mono mic/line inputs. All models boast four stereo line inputs, and suit a very wide range of applications where simple yet high-quality mixing is required, such as in home recording, small band/cabaret PA systems, AV presentation systems, small broadcast edit suites, educational environments and general contracting.

The Notepad 124FX also has an integral digital effects processor which has a feed from every input and over 100 effects, including a pink noise and test setting. The FX control can also be used to set delay tap tempo, a feature not found in many mixers in this class. On the Notepad 124, the FX send is replaced by a standard AUX send with a dedicated output. Both models provide a recording output of the mix on RCA/Phono connectors as well as a stereo input for CD playback etc.

Other highly desirable functions include a high-pass filter on the mono inputs, a 60mm fader for the mix output selectable sensitivity of +4dBu or 1-dBv  on each stereo input (Notepad 124 models only), and multi-segment LED metering on the mix output, along with a headphone monitoring output.

Full details on the new Notepad range are available from www.soundcraft.com

Lexicon® Launches Complete Desktop Recording System with Omega® Studio Bundle

Lexicon®, a Harman International Company (NYSE-HAR), today has launched the Omega® Studio Desktop Recording Bundle. The Omega Studio Bundle is a completely integrated computer recording package that combines Lexicon’s Omega Studio USB recording interface with Steinberg® Cubase® LE 4 multi-track audio and MIDI recording software, the Lexicon Pantheon™ VST reverb plug-in, and an AKG® D 88 S® lead vocal microphone and mic cable. It contains all the necessary hardware and software components to transform a PC or Mac® into a professional 24-bit recording studio and allows the user to start recording immediately.

The Omega Studio recording interface is built around a mixer paradigm. This powerful interface is an 8-input, 4-bus, 2-output, USB I/O mixer with inserts, instrument input, MIDI I/O, and complete metering and monitoring functions with the ability to record up to 4-tracks at once. The Omega I/O mixer makes it easy to record, arrange, edit, process and mix music. A user gets intuitive hands-on control over the most important functions, creating an easy-to-use interface for creative recording.

Cubase LE 4 integrates seamlessly with the Omega I/O mixer to achieve an easy-to-use 48-track complete recording solution that includes all of the modules that you need to track, edit, and mix your masterpiece. The Lexicon name is synonymous with “the world’s best reverb” and the Pantheon VST reverb plug-in allows the user to add that full, rich luster of reverb and delay to create a polished and professional mix. In addition, the AKG D 88 S dynamic handheld microphone for lead vocalists completes the package.

“The Omega Studio Bundle represents Lexicon’s continued commitment to give users the highest quality recording options for their home studio. This complete package provides someone with everything they need to capture the moment and begin recording immediately at price points that make this recording bundle accessible to all musicians and recording enthusiasts,” stated Randy Garrett, Director of Marketing for Lexicon.

· Lexicon Omega 8-Input, 4-Bus, 2-Output USB I/O Mixer

· AKG D 88 S Dynamic Vocal Microphone with Cable and Case

· Steinberg Cubase LE 4 Multi-track Audio and MIDI Recording Software

· Lexicon World Class Pantheon VST Reverb Plug-In

JBL Offers Rebates for purchase of MSC1 Monitor System Controller with LSR2300 Studio Monitors

Today, JBL is announcing a program that makes it even easier for customers to purchase complete JBL systems including the MSC1 Monitor System Controller. For a limited time Customers in the United Sates who purchase the MSC1 with LSR2300 Series Studio Monitors through qualified JBL Professional dealers can receive up to $150 cash back when they purchase system combinations by April 30, 2010.

JBL is offering the following system rebates:

•    Purchase a system of two LSR2328P studio monitors, one LSR2310SP subwoofer and one MSC1 Monitor System Controller and receive $150 cash back.
•    Purchase two LSR2325P studio monitors, one LSR2310SP subwoofer and one MSC1 and receive $100 cash back.
•    Purchase a pair of LSR2328P studio monitors with the MSC1 and receive $100 cash back.
•    Purchase a pair of LSR2325P studio monitors with the MSC1 and receive $50 cash back.
•    Elegantly add a subwoofer to any system. Purchase the LSR2310SP Subwoofer and the MSC1 and receive $50 cash back.

In a convenient desktop form-factor, the JBL MSC1 Monitor System Controller combines essential Monitor System Controls found in the “monitor section” of large mixing consoles along with JBL’s ingenious RMC™ Room Mode Correction technology that tunes speakers to compensate for low frequency problems in the room. The end result is great mixes, in any room.

The MSC1 serves as a desktop switcher than selectable allows monitoring of a range of signal sources, using two pairs of studio monitors. The MSC1 includes a subwoofer output, bass management crossover, and a level control to accurately integrate a subwoofer into any system. RMC technology in the MSC1 tunes the speakers and the sub to eliminate exaggerated low frequency that can occur in the mix room. While the MSC1 works with any speakers, for a truly accurate, full range reference system the ideal combination is the MSC1 with JBL’s new JBL LSR2300 Studio Monitors that are priced to put professional performance within reach of any studio.

“Customers working in acoustically less-than-perfect rooms discover their mixes don’t sound right when played on other systems,” noted Peter Chaikin, Director of Recording And Broadcast Marketing at JBL Professional. “JBL has been leading the charge to fix the problem. The MSC1/LSR2300 Mail-In Rebate Program is JBL’s New Year’s gift to customers, for better mixes in 2010 and beyond!”

The MSC1/LSR2300 Mail-In Rebate coupon and complete program rules are posted for download at www.jblpro.com

Harman Professional Launches New And Improved HiQnet System Architect™ 2.1 For Faster, More Comprehensive HiQnet™ Support

Building on the new workflow principles and operational paradigms offered with its HiQnet System Architect™ 2.0, Harman Professional recently made its new System Architect 2.1 available to HiQnet™ users worldwide. The upgrade, which was made live on Thursday, December 17th, allows System Architect to automate many of the more time consuming system design tasks based on the application’s greater, embedded understanding of how a user constructs a system.

System Architect 2.1 has been upgraded to allow greater compatibility between HiQnet devices from Harman Professional’s legendary brands, including Crown, JBL, dbx, AKG and BSS Audio.

New with version 2.1 is the support of the new Crown PIP-USP4/CN Card and control of the AKG DMS 700 digital wireless system via the HUB 4000 Q.  Frequency coordination of DMS 700 wireless systems can be performed with 1 Click Setup from AKG’s plugin. ‘1-Click Setup’ calculates discrete, inter-modulation-free frequencies for the entire wireless system on the fly with just a single click.

The upgrade means that System Architect takes multiple like-devices within rack and arrays and automatically groups these into master panels.  These are then made accessible from icons associated with the relevant racks or arrays directly in the Venue. Additionally, user-defined panels can also be assigned to racks, arrays and areas, putting access to control exactly where it makes sense and where it should be.

“With this new upgrade to System Architect, Harman Professional  offers its customers the ability to manage all the products within a HiQnet system with remarkable efficiency,” said Adam Holladay, Market Manager, System Development and Integration Group. “With the operational and performance optimizations that come with the new upgrade, each HiQnet product can effectively work towards providing a more unified system, together reaching a greater potential than alone and with minimal work from the engineer.”

Additional features added to System Architect 2.1 include the ability to readdress devices directly in the venue, both online and offline; the ability to reorder devices in racks and arrays by address and a new region indicator control for use in advanced Custom Panel design. The user interface was upgraded to include a file load progress bar, and also provides enhancements to the intelligent Network Troubleshooter to assist with solving network complications.

 “System Architect 2.1 continues our goal of offering users the greatest functionality with the least amount of labor,” continued Holladay. “With System Architect ‘generation 2’, Harman Professional is effectively providing engineers with a helping hand to make the even the most complex audio designs as simple to configure as possible.”

DigiTech® Redefines A Category With Introduction of JamMan® Solo and JamMan® Stereo Looper Pedals

DigiTech®, a leading manufacturer of guitar, bass, and vocal processors, and a Harman International company (NYSE-HAR), has introduced the JamMan® Solo and JamMan® Stereo Looper pedals. The JamMan Stereo features true stereo loops as well as reverse playback, making it perfect for playing backing tracks, while the JamMan Solo is designed for the guitarist or bassist looking for a full-featured looper in a compact form.

Both also feature the ability to store 35 minutes of CD-quality loops in 99 loops internally as well as having a SD memory card expansion slot, giving the artist the ability to store up to 16 hours of material in the JamMan Stereo and 48 hours of material in the JamMan Solo in an additional 99 slots.

The JamMan Solo and JamMan Stereo feature USB connectivity and will sync to DigiTech’s free JamManager™ software that organizes and saves your JamMan loops to a PC or Mac. The software also provides the user with the capability to create JamLists and have them available for use anytime. 

“We reinvented loopers nearly a decade ago with the original JamMan® and now we are reinventing loops again with the introduction of the JamMan Stereo and Solo. We are always striving to give guitarists and bassists new ways to be creative and unique with their tone and these new loopers give players the ability to do that whether they are practicing at home, performing on stage or anything in between,” stated Jason Lamb, Marketing Manager for DigiTech.

Both loopers also include a USB port to transfer loops to and from a computer, metronome with multiple rhythm sounds and time signatures, automatic recording, and Hands-Free™ functionality. The JamMan Stereo also features a balanced, professional grade, low impedance XLR mic input with a dedicated gain control.

dbx ® Showcases The DriveRack® PA+ For Enhanced Speaker Management

dbx® Professional Products, a Salt Lake City-based manufacturer of professional audio signal processing products and a division of Harman International, is showcasing the DriveRack® PA+, a complete loudspeaker management system that provides state-of-the-art audio signal processing and an intuitive user interface.

The DriveRack PA+ is the next generation of the world’s best-selling loudspeaker management system, the DriveRack PA.  The original DriveRack PA, known for setting the standard for complete speaker management, has given thousands of users an easier way to make their speaker systems sound better than they ever imagined.  The new PA+ builds on this strong reputation by staying true to its predecessor while providing more great features and improved functionality. 

The DriveRack PA+ includes a new, updated library of stored speaker and amplifier settings.  These built-in settings are a time saving feature only found on dbx DriveRack products.  Having the settings included in the DriveRack eliminates the need for users to enter their own speaker settings during setup. A convenient USB connection has also been added that will now allow users to update the preset settings. Other new features include fulltime RTA, front panel mute buttons, a faster Auto EQ® Wizard, and an enhanced Setup Wizard process, which now includes a new, industry-first Auto Level™ Wizard. Setup Wizards have set the DriveRack line of products apart for years.  The DriveRack PA+ Wizards enables even less experienced users to set up a system that will sound like a seasoned audio professional tuned it.

While the new DriveRack PA+ has been updated with new features and functionality, it still has all the groundbreaking features that made the original DriveRack PA so popular.  These hallmark features include an industry-standard dbx compressor/limiter module, a high-quality 6-channel output system that includes parametric EQs, and Peak Plus™ limiters, the patented dbx Advanced Feedback Suppression (AFS®) system to eliminate feedback, and the bass thumping dbx 120A subharmonic synthesizer function.  It also continues to have two independent signal paths linked DPS processing power and linkable 28-Band Graphic Equalizer. These features, combined with the easy to use crossover function and alignment delay, help PA+ users deliver optimal, all-inclusive sound processing for almost any speaker system.

“The best just got even better with the new DriveRack PA+. We have managed to improve upon the incredibly successful DriveRack PA while staying true to what the PA so great,” stated Jay Woolley, marketing director for portable sound, Harman Music Group. “We are confident users will find that the PA+ is easy to use and makes their speaker systems sound better than they ever thought possible.”

Crown’s HiQnet™ Band Manager™ Breaks The 10,000 Download Barrier

Over the past year, 10,000 users have experienced Crown’s ground-breaking HiQnet™ Band Manager™ system configuration and control software and are deploying it in a number of portable PA applications from DJs, to bands and singers. The free-of-charge application provides an intuitive user centric, 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.

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 success of Band Manager over the last year, Andy Flint, Crown Marketing Manager for portable PA stated, “Band Manager is successful because it provides real value. It simplifies the process of setting up and optimizing the PA system, while at the same time allowing users to extract the maximum from their system. Put simply, it’s a performance accelerate.”

BSS Audio® BLU-100 Provides Upgraded Signal Processing To Soundweb™ London Series

BSS Audio®, a Harman International Company (NYSE-HAR), today added a cost-effective signal processor to its acclaimed Soundweb™ London family of digital signal processors. The new Soundweb London BLU-100 represents a premium, open-architecture solution in the form of a highly flexible, cost-effective and scalable package.

The BLU-100 offers a fixed configuration of 12 inputs and eight outputs, configurable signal processing, logic processing and a fault tolerant digital audio bus. The configurable signal processing capability offered by the BLU-100 is roughly twice that of the Soundweb London BLU-80 and BLU-16 devices.

The analog inputs of the BLU-100 provide software configurable gain in 6dB steps up to +48dB per channel and software selectable Phantom Power per channel. Phantom Power, Signal Present and Clip information per channel is easily accessible, without the requirement for a PC, from clear front panel LED indication.

The BLU-100 features a low latency, fault tolerant digital audio bus of 48 channels which uses standard Category 5e cabling giving a distance of 100m between compatible devices. Fiber media converters can be used to increase the distance between devices to over 10km (6.2 miles) using single mode fiber.

The BLU-100 is configured, controlled and monitored from HiQnet™ London Architect and is compatible with other members of the Soundweb London family. Its 48 channel digital audio bus represents channels 1-48 of the larger 256 channel digital audio bus when integrated with the BLU-800, BLU-320, BLU-160, BLU-120 and BLU-BOB devices. Up to 60 digital audio bus compatible devices can share channels on a single bus.

As with other Soundweb London devices, 12 Control Inputs and six Logic Outputs allow the BLU-100 to be integrated with GPIO compatible devices.

Iain Gregory, market manager for installed sound at Harman Music Group stated, “The BLU-100 is an example of where user feedback, combined with the leveraging of Soundweb London’s technology, functionality and flexibility has resulted in the development of a truly game-changing product. The BLU-100 broadens the reach of Soundweb London and makes a solution strongly associated with high-profile projects available to many more applications.”

The BLU-100 and the other members of the Soundweb London family provide the building blocks of the perfectly tailored system solution.

AKG Microphones Rock The Music World In 2009

From California to Japan, artists around the world used AKG to drive live and recorded performances in 2009; delivering uninterrupted sound with a variety of AKG microphones and wireless microphone systems. With rap legends like Kanye West, Jay-Z, and Missy Elliot, country superstars Brooks & Dunn, and acapella rockers Rockapella turning to AKG for all their live performances, AKG was able to demonstrate the sonic integrity it’s known for to the world.

With the WMS 4500 wireless microphone system, Jay-Z performed in a variety of different venues; from small house of blues venues to heavily populated frequency areas for television events seen by millions. Using a handheld C 5900, he was able to keep a full mix without sacrificing any of the clarity necessary for his speedy rap style.

Missy Elliot selected the D 5 handheld microphone for many of the same reasons when she performed live on David Letterman’s Late Show. The laminated Varimotion diaphragm that comes standard on all D 5 microphones gave her the most sensitive transmission available and allowed her to concentrate on her raps without worrying about unanticipated feedback. 

“This has been a great year for AKG,” said Alfred Reinprecht, AKG’s Vice President of Marketing and Product Management. “We have worked closely with artists and audio engineers to ensure that our products meet and exceed expectations for everyone who uses them. From artists performing in front of millions of people to local theaters putting on recitals and plays, AKG has been able to deliver every time.”

Another artist to adopt AKG for his international “Glow In The Dark” tour was Kanye West. Starting at the beginning of the year, West used the WMS 4500 wireless system and IVM 4 in-ear monitoring system in 40 cities and six continents around the world. Darcy Khan, audio engineer for West’s tour, selected the WMS 4500 for the clean RF transmission and ease-of-use; saving the presets for each city in separate folders on his computer to open upon arrival.

“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,” Khan said.

The global endorsement of AKG came in response to a series of groundbreaking introductions that included the DMS 700 Digital Wireless system, the C 414 XLS, and the C 414 XL II. Also introduced in the second half of 2009 was AKG’s Perception 120 USB: a microphone that can be easily used to record audio from the desktop and plugged into the computer.

 “AKG re-established itself as the leader in live and studio microphone engineering this year,” Reinprecht continued. “We were used by some of the biggest artists in the business, we introduced some of the best products on the market, and we even joined the METAlliance Pro Partners. With the year coming to an end, we have started to look forward to 2010 as we prepare to carry the momentum from 2009 into the New Year”

Harman Professional Names New Manufacturer’s Representatives To Serve Hawaii And The Pacific Northwest

Underscoring its commitment to provide professional audio dealers and integrators in the Pacific Northwest and Hawaii with the most comprehensive service and support programs, Harman Professional today announced the appointment of Plus Four Marketing to serve as its manufacturer’s representative in Oregon, Washington, Montana, Alaska and Idaho and also announced the appointment of Sunnyland Marketing, Inc. as its manufacturer’s representative in Hawaii. Plus Four Marketing has been associated with Harman Professional since 1986, when it was appointed to serve JBL Professional and Soundcraft for Northern California and Northern Nevada. According to Scott Robbins, Vice President of Sales, Harman Professional, the appointments, effective immediately, will provide dealers in these regions exceptional service and technical support through these world class representative companies.

“Sunnyland Marketing Inc. and Plus Four Marketing are two excellent representative firms that share a proven track record of dealer care, deep technical expertise and unmatched commercial integrity and experience,” Robbins said today. “I am confident that our customers in Hawaii and the Pacific Northwest will benefit from these appointments and I look forward to working with these companies to ensure that we’re listening closely to our dealers in these territories and putting products and programs in place to enable their success.”

Plus Four Marketing is an award-winning representative firm known for providing dealers and integrators in Northern California and Northern Nevada with comprehensive technical and design support coupled with thorough product knowledge and responsive and efficient administrative services. Led by Jim Mathews, Principal, the Plus Four Marketing team includes Keith Erickson, Sales; Sean Barnett, Sales; Suzy Sheets, Office Manager and Allison Mathews, Business Management and Accounting. The company is headquartered in San Francisco and has recently appointed Pacific Northwest representative veterans Todd Finney and Steve Malone to help lead their efforts in this region.

Sunnyland Marketing enjoys a similarly strong culture of dealer care, technical expertise and product and project experience.  Sunnyland was founded in 1985 and has successfully represented a host of respected professional audio and video brands and won numerous awards.  Headquartered in Honolulu, the company is led by Principal, Alan Gaylor.

“Harman Professional is a market-driven company that builds innovative products that customers want,” Gaylor said today.  “Harman clearly understands the unique challenges of the Hawaiian market and is committed to improved support for our dealers. I am very pleased that Sunnyland Marketing will support that process and that we represent such a dynamic and respected group of brands.”

Commenting on the expansion of his company’s reach into the Pacific Northwest, Jim Mathews noted, “The key to our success in Northern California and Northern Nevada has been that we take nothing for granted:  Each day we work hard for our manufacturers and our dealers to provide them with product sales and services and also the exchange of information and ideas to ensure the communication between manufacturer and dealer is mutually responsive and productive.”

Harman International Industries, Incorporated (www.harman.com), designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of audio and infotainment products for the automotive, consumer and professional markets. Harman International maintains a strong presence in the Americas, Europe and Asia, and employs more than 11,000 people worldwide. The Harman International family of brands includes AKG®, Audioaccess®, Becker®, BSS®, Crown®, dbx®, DigiTech®, Harman Kardon®, Infinity®, JBL®, Lexicon®, Mark Levinson®, Revel®, QNX®, Soundcraft® and Studer®. Harman International’s stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “NYSE: HAR.”

Hitachi Introduces CP-DW10N 3LCD Short-Throw Projector

-- The CP-DW10N 3LCD Projector Features Short-Throw Display Capabilities, Networking Functionality And WXGA Resolution --

CHULA VISTA, California, January 15, 2010 — Hitachi America, Ltd., Digital Media Division, Business Solutions Group, is introducing the CP-DW10N 3LCD projector, combining short throw capabilities with networking functionality and widescreen display,. The CP-DW10N is the ideal projector for presenting on interactive whiteboards.

The Hitachi CP-DW10N features a short throw distance of three feet, projecting an 80-inch image, while eliminating image obstruction in front of the screen. The CP-DW10N projector can be controlled and maintained through a LAN network connection, providing the ability to network, control and maintain the projectors remotely. The network functionality is capable of controlling multiple projectors in different rooms, as well as monitoring for functions such as remaining lamp life.

In addition, the Hitachi CP-DW10N features WXGA (1280 x 800) resolution and a 16:10 aspect ratio, making the projector compatible with widescreen laptop computers and providing the ability to project on an 87-inch-wide interactive whiteboard from a distance of 37 inches.

The CP-DW10N projector also offers numerous features that ease administration and maintenance. For example, the projector’s Messenger function transmits text data from a remote computer to the projector via the network allowing the projector to display the message. This is ideal for campus notifications, school activities, daily schedules, and community/local news.

The CP-DW10N also features a hybrid filter, making maintenance and cleaning less frequent, translating into longer operation. With the hybrid filter, cleaning frequency is extended to 4,000 hours. The CP-DW10N is equipped with advanced security features, including a security bar that allows the easy attachment of a security chain. By using the CP-DW10N’s PIN lock, the projector can limit the number of users. In addition, the transition detector can prevent unauthorized use of the projector.

The CP-DW10N projector is also ideal for teachers and students, as well as small conference rooms. With the projector’s Template Function, the projector can display lines, circles and a world map, making it easier to write on an interactive whiteboard. With the CP-DW10N’s Partial Magnification Function, presenters can magnify part of an image up to four times. The CP-DW10N also provides a 10W audio output, eliminating the need for external speakers. Furthermore, an HDMI input terminal allows the projector to receive digital video signals without any loss in quality.

Griffin Butler Appointed Hitachi Software’s Midwestern Education and Training Consultant

-- Butler Brings 28 Years Of Sales And Marketing Experience To Lead Hitachi Software Sales In The Midwest Region--

CHULA VISTA, California, January 13, 2010 – Hitachi Software Engineering America, Ltd. today announced the appointment of Griffin Butler as Midwestern Educational and Training Consultant. In his new role as education and training consultant, Butler will serve as the primary liaison with educators and customers at various educational institutes throughout the Midwest to introduce Hitachi products and demonstrate how the StarBoard line can satisfy their education and business goals across Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Ohio and Wisconsin.

Mr. Butler brings a wealth of experience in the education sales markets.  Prior to joining Hitachi, he served as an account executive for Pearson Digital Learning, an educational publishing company. Butler also previously served as a sales representative for Thomson Learning, providing customized learning solutions for education, government, and corporate applications.

His primary responsibilities include growing Hitachi’s customer base in the Midwest and participating in various sales-related events and trade shows. Mr. Butler will also assist in training for dealers and end users.

“Griffin brings a wealth of sales leadership experience in the education market. We are excited to see the Midwestern region benefit from his enthusiastic approach and commitment to his clients,” said Ted Wakabayashi, president of Hitachi Software Engineering.

“Hitachi Software is well known for the quality of products and service they provide,” stated Butler. “Through my professional experience, I’ve become very familiar with Hitachi’s innovative and leadership position in the interactive whiteboard market. I look forward to growing the market presence of the StarBoard and all Hitachi Software products throughout the Midwest region and providing our current and future clients with the highest level of service and support.”

JBL LSR Series Monitors Bring Latin GRAMMY Awards Telecast To Life On The Univision Network

The 10th Annual Latin GRAMMY Awards at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas on November 5, 2009 turned in the best television performance in the show’s history, honoring the top artists in Latino music. The event, which featured performances by stars including Alicia Keys, Daniela Mercury, Reik, Alejandro Sanz, Calle 13 and Ruben Blades, set a record for the telecast with over 12 million viewers. TV viewers heard a brilliant musical soundscape, embellished by layers of percussion, large horn sections and passionate vocals. GRAMMY and EMMY Award-winning music mixer Eric Schilling chose a pair of JBL LSR4328P bi-amplified studio monitors and an LSR4312SP powered subwoofer to create the music mix for the broadcast and he plans to expand the system for future 5.1 surround mixing projects, as well.

Schilling first became familiar with the LSR4328P and LSR4312SP monitors on another Univision music project in South Florida earlier this year, where they were installed in the remote audio truck. “I’m familiar with the JBL sound but this was a kind of new product for me,” said Schilling, who is acclaimed for his work with artists from Cachao and Babyface to Shakira and Madonna, and the recipient of four GRAMMYs and 10 Latin GRAMMYs, in addition to two EMMY Awards. “I worked with the LSR4300 Series studio monitors over the course of 10 weeks on that project and was impressed by their sound, their adaptability and their smooth linear response.” Schilling was so impressed he specified them for his station in the Remote Recording broadcast truck at the Latin GRAMMYs, and the LSR4300 Series monitors did not disappoint. “Latin music is very dense, with many components and tons of percussion and big horn sections – we had as many as 30 players on stage at one time – and there’s a lot to sort out,” Schilling explains. “The LSR monitors have tremendous definition, which is exactly what you need for a complex broadcast mix like this. There is no ear fatigue, and their linear response meant that I knew what to expect at any volume level. They’re simple and straightforward to use and highly adaptable in any environment. For all those reasons, I plan on using them in the future.”

The JBL LSR4300 Series are the first professional studio monitors with computer connectivity, digital inputs, networking, and JBL technologies that allow accurate mixes even in acoustically challenging workspaces. The LSR4328P is engineered using JBL's Linear Spatial Reference design criteria that optimize frequency response and imaging at the mix position. JBL's RMC™ Room Mode Correction system incorporates a powerful analyzer into each speaker that analyzes and automatically compensates for problems caused by problematic low frequency standing waves. Speaker tuning is simply accomplished with the push of a button using the supplied calibration microphone. The result is a calibrated listening environment in which the monitors work in harmony with the room, enabling mixes that translate reliably to the outside world. The LSR4312SP 12" Powered Subwoofer extends the low frequency response of the system into the 20Hz region and is networked with the main speakers for centralized control and tuning of the entire system.

The live sound component of the event featured JBL VERTEC® line arrays, along with products from fellow Harman Professional companies, including dbx 226 compressor/limiters and an AKG IVM4 wireless in-ear monitoring system. The main PA system, provided and manned by ATK Audiotek, included a total of 63 VERTEC® VT4889 full-size line array loudspeakers, with the main system featuring 22 on each side of the stage and three more attached to the bottom of eight VT4880 full-size arrayable subwoofers that made up the center cluster. Six VRX932 compact line array cabinets were used as front fills. Two rear delay clusters were comprised of eight VT4889 line array elements each.

AKG Integrates The DMS 700 Into Its System Architect Plug-In For Full HiQnet™ Compatibility

In an introduction that couples AKG’s legendary wireless performance with Harman System Architect’s ease of use, AKG recently updated its System Architect plug-in for the HUB 4000 Q to version 3.5 with the introduction of the Harman System Architect 2.1 release.

The professional digital wireless microphone system DMS 700 is now fully integrated into System Architect. Users have the ability to setup and monitor multichannel DMS 700 systems with tools such as 1 Click Setup, RF Monitor, Environment Scan and Offline Configuration. With AKG’s 1 Click Setup, the frequency coordination of DMS 700 multichannel systems can be done with ease with just a single click.

The 1 Click Setup is easy and straightforward and allows for optimal frequency coordination for all of AKG’s wireless systems. With a single click, the algorithm completes a full frequency coordination by performing an environment/frequency scan, calculating the inter-modulation-free frequencies for each device and programming each device automatically.

The new upgrade allows AKG’s professional wireless systems – including the DMS 700, the WMS 4000/4500 as well as the IVM 4 – to be completely integrated with Harman’s new System Architect™ 2.1. The new System Architect Plug-In allows anyone who has an AKG wireless system equipped with the HUB 4000 Q and System Architect to be prepared for any future wireless implementation.

AKG To Receive Technical Grammy® Award For Contribution To Recording Arts And Sciences

In recognition of more than 60 years contribution to the art and science of music recording and performance, storied microphone and headphone innovator, AKG was recently named to receive a prestigious technical Grammy® award from the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences (NARAS).  The award, which will be presented at this coming Grammy Week in Los Angeles in January 2010, represents an historic first in AKG’s history of firsts — not simply in terms of technology innovations, but also in great recordings and performances.

From The Beatles’ watershed performances in Shea Stadium in 1967 to Aerosmith, the Rolling Stones, Frank Sinatra,  and today’s most progressive and successful artists like Jay Z, Missy Elliot and Kayne West, AKG microphones and headphones have provided great sounding technologies to support the most demanding and creative projects.

AKG is in good company, with this year's only other GRAMMY Technical Award to be presented posthumously to Thomas Edison, inventor of the phonograph, early motion picture technologies, and the incandescent light bulb.  Harman's JBL brand also earned a GRAMMY Technical Award in 2005, the first and only loudspeaker manufacturer to be so honored.  Founded in 1947, AKG has been providing state-of-the-art microphones and headphones for a variety of live and recording applications.

"This year's honorees are a prestigious group of diverse and prominent creators who have contributed some of the most distinguished and influential recordings," said Recording Academy President/CEO Neil Portnow. "Their outstanding accomplishments and passion for their craft have created a timeless legacy that has positively affected multiple generations, and will continue to influence generations to come. It is an honor and privilege to recognize such talented individuals who have had and will continue to have such an influence in both our culture and the music industry."

"We are humbled by this recognition from the recording industry's preeminent organization," said Dinesh C. Paliwal, Harman International Chairman, President and CEO. "Our AKG products have long supported the industry's leading artists and technicians, and we are honored to share the spotlight with them at the legendary Grammy Awards."

This year, AKG continued it’s tradition of innovation; introducing some of their most advanced microphones and headphones to date. With the release of the Perception 120 USB in September, AKG gave users the ability to record studio-quality sound from their desktop; with the C 414 XLS and XL II, they introduced two of the most sensitive and versatile microphones available; and with the DMS 700, AKG presented their first digital wireless audio system.

“From its formation many years ago, AKG has been singularly committed to quality,” said Alfred Reinprecht, AKG Vice President of Marketing and Product Management.  “It is not surprising, therefore, that so many quality recording artists, producers and engineers have gravitated to AKG and made our microphones and headphones the tools of their trade and the instruments of their craft.  To be awarded this prestigious and rare honor is recognition of the wonderfully creative and committed people who have designed and built AKG products for more than half a century and to the loyal customers who have partnered with us to make our best products even better!”

Everyone at AKG is honored to be recognized by The Recording Academy for Technical Achievement,” “Since the company was founded in 1947, AKG has been dedicated to producing the highest quality microphones and headphones with the most advanced recording technology. This award not only signifies our ability to do so, but it also validates AKG as one of the leading international providers in audio equipment.”

Harman Professional Launches New And Improved HiQnet System Architect™ 2.1 For Faster, More Comprehensive HiQnet™ Support

Building on the new workflow principles and operational paradigms offered with its HiQnet System Architect™ 2.0, Harman Professional recently made its new System Architect 2.1 available to HiQnet™ users worldwide. The upgrade, which was made live on Thursday, December 17th, allows System Architect to automate many of the more time consuming system design tasks based on the application’s greater, embedded understanding of how a user constructs a system.

System Architect 2.1 has been upgraded to allow greater compatibility between HiQnet devices from Harman Professional’s legendary brands, including Crown, JBL, dbx, AKG and BSS Audio.

New with version 2.1 is the support of the new Crown PIP-USP4/CN Card and control of the AKG DMS 700 digital wireless system via the HUB 4000 Q.  Frequency coordination of DMS 700 wireless systems can be performed with 1 Click Setup from AKG’s plugin. ‘1-Click Setup’ calculates discrete, inter-modulation-free frequencies for the entire wireless system on the fly with just a single click.

The upgrade means that System Architect takes multiple like-devices within rack and arrays and automatically groups these into master panels.  These are then made accessible from icons associated with the relevant racks or arrays directly in the Venue. Additionally, user-defined panels can also be assigned to racks, arrays and areas, putting access to control exactly where it makes sense and where it should be.

“With this new upgrade to System Architect, Harman Professional  offers its customers the ability to manage all the products within a HiQnet system with remarkable efficiency,” said Adam Holladay, Market Manager, System Development and Integration Group. “With the operational and performance optimizations that come with the new upgrade, each HiQnet product can effectively work towards providing a more unified system, together reaching a greater potential than alone and with minimal work from the engineer.”

Additional features added to System Architect 2.1 include the ability to readdress devices directly in the venue, both online and offline; the ability to reorder devices in racks and arrays by address and a new region indicator control for use in advanced Custom Panel design. The user interface was upgraded to include a file load progress bar, and also provides enhancements to the intelligent Network Troubleshooter to assist with solving network complications.

“System Architect 2.1 continues our goal of offering users the greatest functionality with the least amount of labor,” continued Holladay. “With System Architect ‘generation 2’, Harman Professional is effectively providing engineers with a helping hand to make the even the most complex audio designs as simple to configure as possible.”

Vince Lauria Gets ‘Reel’ Sound With JBL LSR Studio Monitors

Highlighting the quality and accuracy of JBL LSR4300 Series studio monitors, guitar virtuoso and composer Vince Lauria purchased JBL LSR4328P monitors to mix and master the music for the new independent feature film, Nowhere Fast: The Forgotten Story of Approach Control.

Many of Lauria’s projects are finalized at The Tone Factory, Vinny Castaldo’s Las Vegas recording studio. “Vinny’s studio has very high-end, expensive studio monitors, and when I used to bring my mixes there, they would not sound right,” Lauria said. “But it’s such a huge difference now with the LSR’s. My mixes translate so well from room to room.”

Lauria recently won a Gold Medal award for “Best Impact of Music in a Documentary Film” at the 2009 Park City Film Music Festival for the feature documentary, Pigweed Philosopher: The Untethered Zen of Kimball Johnson, which also recently earned “Best Documentary [International]” at the London Independent Film Festival. Lauria also won a 2008 Gold Medal at the Park City Film Music Festival for the feature documentary, Man Of A Thousand Faces, executive produced by actor James Hong (Blade Runner, The Day The Earth Stood Still). The music for both Man of a Thousand Faces and Pigweed Philosopher was mixed using JBL LSR4328P monitors.

"I love the uncolored sound the JBL’s have, because my mixes are consistent and accurate when I go to a mastering studio," says Lauria. "Unlike other brands I've used, I don't have to compensate for the inadequacies of the speakers."

As a guitar virtuoso, Lauria has numerous instructional textbooks to his name. As a composer, Lauria has collaborated with notable recording artists such as Denny Laine (The Moody Blues, Wings), award-winning film composer Jeffrey Gold and Jazz great Richie Cole. He composed and performed the Clio Award-winning melody for the Made In The Shade Jeans commercials. Lauria is also producing and engineering a new album with producer Rafael C. Garcia for recording star Donnie Vie of Enuff Z’nuff.