JBL Loudspeakers Employed for the Tree of Prosperity Attraction at the Wynn Macau Hotel And Casino

An invigorating show of both serenity and extravagance, the Tree of Prosperity attraction at the Wynn Macau resort hotel and casino in Macau, China is an award-winning, multi-sensory experience. Joel J. Gread Associates, Inc. (JJGA) served on the show design team as the audio/video/control (AVC) engineering consultant. Conceived to excite resort guests with a show of theatrical excellence, the Tree of Prosperity’s sound system features a variety of JBL loudspeakers. Electrosonic Systems, Inc. (ESI) installed the AVC system, supporting the project out of its Burbank, California and Hong Kong offices.

The Tree of Prosperity show features spectacular movement of kinetic sculptures, video, lighting and dynamic music. The Wynn’s atrium, where guests first arrive on their visit to the resort, depicts Chinese and Western astrological symbols on upper and lower domes. The show begins with thunderous music as the upper dome opens, revealing an abstract light show on a massive video screen above. The screen soon splits in the middle as a huge crystal chandelier descends. The lower dome then opens as a 38-foot tree ascends from below. The stunning Tree of Prosperity’s 60 limbs have 2,000 branches and 98,000 leaves made of 24k gold and brass leaf. Audiences are amazed and thrilled throughout the presentation.

Originally, the Tree of Prosperity show had no existing sound design concept other than a generic single point-source track used for preliminary visual concept presentations. When JJGA designed the audio system, with input from JBL Professional, principal engineer Joel Gread specified a configuration of eight AM6340/64 full-range loudspeakers, recessed above the outer atrium ceiling. An additional eight ASB6118 subwoofers are co-located with the AM6340’s, while four AC2212/64 full-range loudspeakers are aimed virtually straight down from high above the audience, providing aural effects associated with the crystal chandelier. Lastly, there are four Control 29AV’s playing audio from the rotating base of the golden prosperity tree.

The eight AM6340/64 loudspeaker systems each have discrete audio sources and amplification, configured as four alternating left-right stereo pairs. Sound effects such as a sweeping wind effect are sequenced during the show at appropriate moments. Powering the loudspeaker systems are Crown CTs series amplifiers, each with an IQ Network DSP-based programmable input processor. There are five CTs 600, nine CTs 2000, and five CTs 3000 amplifiers, all with IQ-PIP-USP2/CN. For Macau, Crown provided amps in 220V versions.

The Tree of Prosperity attraction was so successful that the show and its team members recently earned a Thea (Themed Entertainment Association) Award for Outstanding Achievement for the project. “The Thea Award signifies that our contributions have been recognized by our peers, and that's rather nice,” Gread said. “It was particularly nice working with pros like those at JBL, and I look forward to our next opportunity to collaborate.”

Soundcraft Si Series Gains Offline Editing, Graphic EQ’s And MADI Interface

Following last month’s launch of the compact Soundcraft Si2, sister to the acclaimed Soundcraft Si3 last month, Soundcraft has announced a new software revision to include Graphic equalizers on the desk and the availability of an offline editor, Virtual Si, for the platform.

Si software version 2.0 adds the capabilities to display composite EQ curves on the touch screen for any channel or output, but perhaps more importantly provides a BSS Audio 30-band graphic equalizer on every output (groups, auxes and matrices), which is controlled by the faders in the same way as on the larger Soundcraft Vi Series platforms.

When switched to Graphic EQ mode, the Soundcraft FaderGlow™ system lights the first 15 faders on the desk in red to indicate EQ mode, and the OLED display above each channel shows both the ISO frequency of the filter and the gain or cut. A really nice feature is the pseudo centre-detent provided in the motorized fader at the 0db point. Simple scrolling allows the faders to control all 30 bands in three sections of the low, mid and higher frequencies.

The Si Series now has a full complement of gates, compressors, graphic EQs and Lexicon effects engines inside the single box analogue-replacement solution.

Completing the new software functionality is the ability to integrate with a Harman HiQnet system and send Venue Recall messages to equipment in the network. Existing Soundcraft Si2 and Si3 owners can upgrade software via the website, www.soundcraft.com.

Channel direct outputs on the Si Series will shortly be provided through an optional MADI interface card, which fits into one of the option slots on the rear of the Si Series chassis. The card, based on the Studer D21m I/O system card and a version of which is also used on the Vi Series, provides up to 64 direct outputs from the channel down a MADI stream, which can be fed to a MADI-based audio multitrack recorder to record live shows, or even used as a stage splitter to feed the inputs to another console which has a MADI interface to its inputs. The card is expected to ship by the end of April.

The new Virtual Si software allows an engineer to completely setup a show, with channel labels, aux/group assignments, EQ settings and cues etc, offline on a PC or laptop, save the show to a USB memory stick and load it directly into the console, saving valuable set-up time at a gig. The software GUI is an exact replica of the desk, so can be used also as a learning or tutorial aid.

A free download of Virtual Si is available at www.soundcraft.com

AKG Expands Industry-Leading WMS 4500 Capabilities With The Addition Of Two New Frequency Bands

Today at Musikmesse, AKG announced the addition of two new frequency bands to the WMS 4500 wireless system capabilities with the introduction of Band 7 and Band 8. The recent expansion to the WMS 4500 frequency range now allows users to operate on two additional user channels and multi-channel applications in today’s crowded RF environment.

The two new frequency bands, Band 7 (500-530 MHz) and Band 8 (570-600 MHz), support the WMS 4500 system’s components; the SR4500 receiver unit, the PT4500 emitter and the HT4500 handheld microphone unit.

Since the wireless systems release at InfoComm 2008, the WMS 4500 has been selected for large-scale events such as the 2009 GRAMMY’s, and has produced outstanding results for artists such as Steven Tyler, Missy Elliott, Busta Rhymes, Kanye West, Jay-Z and Brooks & Dunn.

The WMS 4500 offers a wide range of available components for operational adaptability and has been modified for greater durability and flexibility with accompanying wireless applications.

The SR4500 receiver unit features an adjustable backlight setting, a factory reset, modified presets and the elegant new casing displays a stylish stage black finish. The receiver’s internal software features AutoSetup for inter-modulation free channel selection, EnvironmentScan settings for RF range scanning, and a RehearsalMode selection, which can be used to save system data during rehearsal set-up. Important settings like squelch threshold, carrier frequency selection, and the listed user name can be edited and stored with an easy-to-use menu.

The PT4500 emitter has also been redesigned with enhanced durability that protects the system from years of rigorous stage use. The major electronic components are enclosed in a metal casing for protection.

The PT4500 bodypack accepts both microphone and line-level input signals as well as adjustable input sensitivity. A lockable TA-3F Mini-XLR attachment easily connects with a broad range of AKG headsets, lavalieres, instrument microphones and instrument cables.

The HT4500 handheld transmitter also features an updated metal casing with a stage black finish that allows for interchangeable microphone modules to be removed and switched to meet any vocalist’s needs. Models available for the WMS 4500 system include the D5, C5900, C5, and C535 EB, as well as the new D7.

The WMS 4500 can be integrated into a Harman HiQnet™ system using the optional HUB 4000 Q. With the System Architect™ software, the WMS 4500 can be configured, controlled, and monitored remotely from a PC. System Architect makes frequency management incredibly easy with tools like the new 1 Click Setup RF Monitor, Device Manager, Environment Scan and Auto Setup.

AKG Announces New Limited Edition D 7 LTD Reference Class Dynamic Microphone

– AKG announced the release of the redesigned and limited edition D 7 LTD vocal microphone today at Musikmesse. AKG’s new reference dynamic microphone delivers high-end performance and exceptional sound for every studio and on stage application. The new deep-drawing Laminated Varimotion diaphragm allows the microphone to be fine-tuned without any extra tuning resonators. Also, the aesthetically pleasing D 7 LTD offers an elegant silhouette to visually compliment any performance.

The redesigned D 7 LTD creates a subtle and full-bodied sound in all frequency ranges that condenser microphones are famous for, but the D 7 LTD also has the powerful resonance to be an industry-leading dynamic microphone. The integrated high-pass filter permanently eliminates all handling noises and the new acoustical designed inner windscreen provides users with additional protection from unwarranted interruptions in live applications. The inner windscreen of the D 7 LTD can be replaced with the extra windscreen that is supplied with the microphone, to further expanding the lifespan and durability of the microphone.

“The release of the D 7 LTD microphone continues our dedication to providing the microphone industry with the most versatile and professional sounding microphone for every recording and live stage applications,” comments Alfred Reinprecht, Vice-President of Marketing at AKG. “The D 7 is a mainstay for many famous recording artists world-wide and we anticipate the same outcome for the D 7 LTD,” Reinprecht concludes.

Baltzell Audio Design And ATK AudioTek Utilize JBL VERTEC® Line Arrays At 2009 Academy Awards

The 81st Annual Academy Awards took place February 22, 2009 at the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles, commemorating the film industry’s most accomplished professionals and productions of 2008. For the event, Valencia, CA-based audio system provider ATK AudioTek deployed the sound reinforcement system, which was designed by Pat Baltzell of Baltzell Audio Design and included JBL VERTEC® line arrays.

One of the biggest nights in entertainment, the 81st Annual Academy Awards were broadcast live on ABC and were hosted by Hugh Jackman. The evening’s highlights included “Slumdog Millionaire” winning Best Motion Picture of the Year, Sean Penn taking home Best Leading Actor for his performance in “Milk,” and Kate Winslet earning Best Leading Actress for her role in “The Reader.”

As with numerous high-profile events in recent months, including the Presidential Inauguration, the GRAMMY Awards and the EMMY Awards, Pat Baltzell designed an audio system built around JBL VERTEC line arrays. “I have had tremendous success working with VERTEC for some of the most-watched events of the year,” Baltzell said. “The Academy Awards presented another opportunity to utilize the easy rigging and reliable performance of VERTEC line arrays.”

The main PA system included two arrays in a left-right configuration, each containing 14 JBL VERTEC VT4889 full-size line array elements. Additionally, 140 JBL Control 25T surface-mount loudspeakers were set up underneath the audience seats in critical-listening VIP areas for the nominees and special guests. These were powered by Crown I-Tech 4000 amps.

Additional JBL elements in the overall system design included MS28 low-profile loudspeakers for under-balcony fill, along with two EON 10 G2 portable loudspeakers for backstage announcements, and six EON 15 G2 portable loudspeakers for red carpet announcements.

According to Baltzell, the VERTEC line arrays once again performed to expectations. “I was able to tune the system very quickly and focus my attention on mixing for the variety of performances and presenters throughout the evening,” Baltzell said. “The VERTEC line arrays allow me to operate with confidence in the technology, which makes a huge difference.”

“Our continued collaboration with Pat Baltzell for events like the EMMY Awards, the Super Bowl, and now the Academy Awards, has proven to be very successful, and the VERTEC line arrays have played a significant role in that success,” said Scott Harmala, Vice President of Engineering, ATK AudioTek.

For more information on ATK AudioTek, please visit www.atkcorp.com

Soundcraft Announces Lower-Priced Si2 Addition To Si Series Digital Console Family

Digital consoles seem to be freely flowing from the Soundcraft Studer team these days, as a new member of the Si Series is announced. The Soundcraft Si2 is a smaller partner to the Si3, launched only in September last year, and is bound to appeal to those wanting a compact and highly-featured digital console at a competitive price.

The Si2 comes in a smaller footprint than its bigger brother, and has 48 mic inputs mapped on 24 faders (the Si3 has 64 inputs), but this is where the differences end. The Si2, like the Si3, has four dedicated Stereo Line channels, four dedicated FX Returns from the four stereo Lexicon FX processors, 8 balanced insert sends and 8 balanced insert returns. Si2 is complete with 24 Group/Aux busses available at all times, 8 matrix busses and a full complement of monitor talkback and main bus outputs. One of the most unique and compelling features of the Si series is that every input and output has its own dedicated input (output) socket on the back of the console.

Like the Si3, the Si2 uses a combination of rotary encoders and OLED screens on every channel so the engineer mixes at source, without recourse to a central screen; an interface welcomed by many engineers since the console’s launch last year. Four assignable on-board lexicon effect engines supplement 4 stereo inputs to provide a really powerful mix package in a width of 1.4m for a UK list price of £17,950.

This package will be highly suited for installations where a smaller footprint is critical, such as theaters, houses of worship and smaller tour sound systems.

With all input and output connections and power supply on board, the Si2 can simply drop in where an existing analog console sits, utilizing existing copper cable snakes and splitter systems.

For more information and to find out what the reviewers are saying, visit www.soundcraftdigital.com.

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!”

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.”

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.

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.”

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.

Crown Audio Breaks The Power/DSP Barrier With New I-Tech HD Series Amplifiers

In an introduction that dramatically resets expectations of what a professional-grade touring amplifier should deliver in terms of performance, processing, integration and ease of use, amplifier pioneer Crown Audio today introduced the new I-Tech HD Series amplifiers that have been meticulously engineered to advance every criteria by which an amplifier is judged. At its core, I-Tech HD features a new user-inspired DSP engine co-developed with BSS and Linear Phase FIR filters that offer unrivaled performance. Together with Crown’s Class-I amplifier technology; new software that makes I-Tech HD robust and very easy to configure; an industry-leading choice of input options including CobraNet and the all-new LevelMax™ limiters (Peak, Thermal and RMS), I-Tech HD is a stunning product of engineering R&D, more than 60 years of amplifier heritage and systematic user input from tour sound leaders in all markets.

“I-Tech HD, our new flagship amplifier, advances the state-of-the-art on no less than seven fronts,” said Mark Graham, President of Crown Audio. “A remarkable achievement in engineering, I-Tech HD Series is a destructive technology in the sense that it obsoletes all that came before it. It’s a worthy testament to Crown’s engineering team and the tour sound professionals around the world who helped with the development.”

Developed in conjunction with sister company BSS, the next generation OmniDriveHD DSP Engine at the heart of I-Tech HD is built on a new architecture specifically optimized for fast and efficient audio processing to provide tour and contracting professionals with a new platform for signal processing. The new FIREWALL™ FIR filter technology provides significantly improved midrange clarity and dramatically improved off-axis response. The OmniDrive HD reduces latency, safeguards sonic integrity and advances system reliability. AudioCore features 24- bit, 192 kHz A/D and D/A converters.

In yet another industry first, Crown Audio links the limiters in its new family of amplifiers: Crown’s innovative LevelMax™ limiter technology links the previously independent Peak, Thermal and RMS Limiters, enabling more effective, elegant protection of connected speakers while advancing system performance. LevelMax limiter actions are better informed for more effective, efficient results and minimal sonic degradation.

Crown I-Tech HD benefits from the software R&D firepower of Harman Professional’s System Development & Integration Group (SDIG) and is easily configured via HiQnet™ System Architect™ Software. The user interface has been completely redesigned. Managing large networks of amplifiers on the road has never been easier. System Architect mirrors the typical browser navigation interface to provide tour sound and contracting professionals with a familiar interface to access a host of power configuration and control functions. System Architect includes context-sensitive, alphanumeric keypads, which pop up automatically with relevant parameter units when a value or text entry box is selected with the stylus.

Further simplifying ease of use, Crown I-Tech HD Series features a road-warrior-inspired front panel USB slot for load and recall of amplifier settings. Chief engineers can simply hand pre-loaded USB keys to entry-level staff who can now quickly, cost-efficiently and accurately configure entire racks by inserting the correct key and pressing the load button. A patent-pending intuitive front panel work surface with LCD display provides fast and easy menu-based system setup and full amplifier diagnostics.

Crown Audio’s commitment to networking and interoperability goes beyond the USB slot. I-Tech HD boasts a category-leading arsenal of standard input options including CobraNet, AES/EBU and analog XLR inputs, allowing distribution of many channels of real-time, high quality digital audio for a vast array of touring and contracting applications.

I-Tech HD builds upon Crown Audio’s remarkable 60-year heritage of amplifier design and the category-defining legacy of the original I-Tech amplifiers. Patented Class-I Amplifier Technology featured in the new I-Tech HD delivers the highest output voltage in the industry, which provides clean transient peaks.

“Today, great power comes with great functionality,” Graham continued. “With I-Tech HD, Crown Audio has achieved the enviable balance of matching functionality with ease of integration, network scalability, intuitive operation and power performance. Just as I-Tech set the benchmark for integrated DSP and amplification — topping many millions of watts on the tour sound circuit and in fixed installation — I-Tech HD provides members of our user community with distinct audio and commercial advantages that make them better, faster, more competitive and lighter than their competition!”

Protected by a rugged 2U chassis, the I-Tech HD weighs in at a lightweight 30 lbs. (13 kg.) but its proven, Class-I output design packs a heavyweight punch to deliver massive amounts of power while generating minimal heat. Crown Audio’s patented Power Factor Correction (PFC) techniques allow I-Tech HD to draw current from the mains more efficiently, which in concert with the Class-I output enables I-Tech HD to provide the highest output voltage available and a clearly audible difference driving high-performance loudspeakers. Minimum guaranteed power ratings are as follows:

Power per channel with both channels driven:
I-T5000 HD: 2,000W at 2 Ohms; 2,500W at 4 Ohms; 1,250W at 8 Ohms
I-T9000 HD: 2,800W at 2 Ohms; 3,500W at 4 Ohms; 1,500W at 8 Ohms
I-T12000 HD: 3,750W at 2 Ohms; 4,500W at 4 Ohms; 2,100W at 8 Ohms

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.

Crown is a unit of Harman International Industries, Incorporated (www.harman.com). Harman International designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of audio and infotainment products for the automotive, consumer and professional markets, and maintains a strong presence in the Americas, Europe and Asia, employing 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.”

AKG Debuts New WMS 40 Pro Wireless Frequencies To Comply With New FCC Regulations

To address the recently enacted FCC regulations, AKG announced the immediate availability of new frequencies for its popular WMS 40 PRO Series wireless systems. All of WMS 40 PRO’s new 660-MHz range frequencies are compliant with regulations that the FCC enacted on August 15th, which will take effect when the transition period to DTV broadcast ends on February 17, 2009.

AKG’s WMS 40 PRO wireless systems are targeted towards budget-conscious wireless users who want excellent performance coupled with simple operation. The WMS 40 PRO wireless system is available in three series of models: FLEXX are frequency-selectable diversity systems; DUAL systems combine two fixed-frequency systems in a single ½-rack receiver; PRO are high-performance, cost-effective fixed-frequency systems. Each series is available in handheld, lavalier, head-worn and instrument configurations. All of the new frequencies will deliver intermodulation-free performance if used side-by-side with the previous WMS 40 PRO systems.

All WMS 40 PRO systems deliver best-in-class performance and ultra-low operating costs, thanks to 30 hours of operation time from 1 x AA battery. The all-metal receiver chassis and miniature-sized transmitters make them easy and comfortable to use. The WMS 40 PRO has achieved wide acceptance from musicians, houses of worship, educational, rental and presentation markets for its unique value and excellent reliability.


AKG’s Director Of Marketing Services, Mike Torlone, states, “AKG WMS 40 PRO wireless systems have consistently proven themselves to be reliable and easily used with an outstanding sound in a range of applications from worship and education to live performance and corporate. The availability of these news frequencies ensures that the WMS 40 PRO products will be compliant with the changes in the U.S. RF spectrum allocation and will continue to provide customers with great sound and solid value for years to come.”

AKG Launches C 214 Stereo Set Offering Maximum Consistency And Accurate Localization For Stunning, Three-Dimensional Recordings

Demonstrating the outstanding performance value and versatility of the C 214 microphone, AKG today launched the C 214 Stereo Set today at NAMM. The rugged construction of the C 214 delivers a highly detailed and accurate sound not only in the studio, but on the road as well. The introduction of the Stereo Set provides users with a complete solution that delivers outstanding performance and excellent quality from a pair of C 214’s.

“Realistic stereo recordings require microphones with outstanding performance and excellent quality,” comments Thomas Stubics, Product Marketing Manager for Recording and Broadcast at AKG. “It also requires performance consistency and accurate localization from the pair of microphones. Therefore, every factory-matched pair of C 214’s is created from thousands of individual microphones selected by AKG's sophisticated computer-aided matching method and the result is the highest possible correlation over the whole frequency range and virtually identical sensitivity for stunning, 3-dimensional recordings.“

The C 214 is a cost effective alternative to the revolutionary C 414 and is capable of handling the rigors of high-pressure sound, such as amplified guitars, with sensitivity perfect for voice and orchestral instruments as well. The C 214 boasts the highest dynamic range in its class and features a low cut switch enabling operation in low phantom power voltages from 12 to 48 volts.

Additional features include 156 dB SPL capability, an integrated suspension, double mesh grill and high RF immunity. The circuitry in the C 214 provides maximum SPL capability with minimum noise and the XLR-type output connector offers loss-free signals.

Commenting on the C 214 is Grammy Award Nominee, Hal Winer, owner of BiCoastal Music. “I've been using the C 214’s regularly and I absolutely love them! I've used them for a wide range of recording applications and I find them especially great for jazz kick drum. It's been very difficult to find a microphone to represent that small and tight sound that a jazz kick has and the C 214 is absolutely the best microphone I’ve ever used in that application. Piano, voice and guitar amp applications have been equally successful."

Hal Winer has produced records for world-renowned artists including Rob Thomas, Björk, Joe Lynn Turner, Tony Levin, John Patitucci and Mike Stern. "They have become my ‘go to’ microphone for almost everything and I keep them mounted on stands for regular use," said Winer.

Accompanying a pair of C 214’s, the Stereo Set includes spider-type shock mounts, stand adapters, windscreens, and a stereo pair certificate for authenticity.

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.”

Harman International Teams Up with Music Legend Quincy Jones

STAMFORD, Connecticut – Harman International Industries, Incorporated (NYSE: HAR) announced today it has formed a marketing relationship with legendary musician, producer and humanitarian Quincy Jones to explore and evaluate opportunities for licensed and co-branded products in the consumer, automotive and professional audio fields. The partnership is intended both to celebrate Mr. Jones’ rich contributions to the music industry and the impact of Harman audio technologies in the recording, broadcast and entertainment fields.

Mr. Jones will also make a number of appearances at Harman-sponsored events and contribute his distinguished personage to various corporate and brand-level marketing activities. With six decades of experience as a renowned member of the music community, Mr. Jones has a deep appreciation for the technologies required for premium sound production. He has used a wide range of Harman International products, including AKG® microphones, Crown® amplifiers, Studer® and Soundcraft® mixing consoles, JBL® speakers and Lexicon® signal processors to help faithfully capture his artistry.

“Quincy’s passion for excellence in the entertainment field is a natural complement to our own respected audio brands,” said Dinesh C. Paliwal, Harman’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “His iconic status and musical genius pair strongly with Harman’s technical leadership and legacy of innovation and provide an exciting expression of our mutual commitment to delivering superior performances.”

“Creating memorable musical experiences is both my business and my passion,” said Quincy Jones. “The value of any production is established when the performers’ true talents are expressed in the studio, the concert hall, or the homes of our shared customers through superior audio equipment. I have long respected Harman systems for meeting this requirement, and I’m pleased to join Harman in celebrating our shared commitment.”

“This new relationship brings Quincy, a recognized leader in sound production, together with Harman, a recognized leader in sound reproduction,” said Robert Thorne, CEO of Quincy Jones Enterprises.
About Quincy Jones

Quincy Jones (www.quincyjones.com) is one of the world’s most successful and admired artists in the entertainment field, earning 79 Grammy nominations and 27 Grammy Awards, 7 Academy Award nominations, the Jean Hersholdt Humanitarian Award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and an Emmy Award. During a musical career that spans six decades, he has distinguished himself as bandleader, solo artist, songwriter, producer, arranger, film composer, record label executive, film, television and Broadway producer and humanitarian. The remarkable diversity of his career is evidenced by the breadth of artists with whom Jones has worked, ranging from Ray Charles and Frank Sinatra to Paul Simon and Michael Jackson.

Harman Professional Expands Relationship With Dobbs-Stanford: Adds AKG And Florida To Manufacturer’s Representative’s Responsibilities

NORTHRIDGE, California — As part of its ongoing commitment to provide dealers, contractors and customers with standardized, quality sales and support services for its range of professional audio technologies, Harman Professional today announced an expanded relationship with manufacturer’s representative, Dobbs-Stanford, that sees the longtime partner add AKG microphones and headphones to its line of products supported. In doing so, Dobbs-Stanford will provide audio professionals in its territory with comprehensive sales and support for the entire range of Harman Professional brands including Soundcraft, Studer, Crown Audio, JBL, BSS Audio, dbx and now also AKG.

In addition to the added opportunity of AKG, Harman Professional also announced today that Dobbs-Stanford will assume sales responsibility for the entire Harman Professional product line in the state of Florida effective January 1, 2009.

Headquartered in Dallas, Texas with six regional offices located throughout its territory, Dobbs-Stanford was founded in 1968 and covers Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and western Tennessee. The company serves the professional audio-video, consumer electronics and digital signage markets and is led by Fred Dobbs, Woody Taylor and vice president and professional division manager Larry O'Neill.

Today’s announcement was made by Michael MacDonald, Harman Professional Executive Vice President of Marketing & Sales, who pointed to Dobbs-Stanford’s comprehensive professionalism, organizational strength and sales leadership as key drivers for the decision to award AKG and the Florida sales territory to Dobbs-Stanford’s responsibilities.

“There are a lot of choices out there when it comes to mic lines and we are really pleased that the Dobbs-Stanford team has chosen to represent AKG’s outstanding products. AKG enjoys an enviable heritage in transducer design and manufacturing and an unparalleled opportunity to leverage that pedigree into the broader, larger contracting, MI and pro sound markets,” MacDonald said today. “Couple this with the exciting range of new products that the company has planned and the opportunity for sales growth at AKG is among the strongest in the Harman Pro portfolio. I’m very pleased that Larry O’Neill and his team have seized on this opportunity and will be representing AKG across their expanded territory. Dobbs-Stanford is the model rep organization with a strong emphasis on training and education, a proven commitment to customer and dealer care and unparalleled professionalism throughout the organization.”

Commenting on the announcement, Larry O’Neill noted, “AKG is a brand with tremendous potential and we’re very pleased to bring their excellent headphones and microphones to our dealers and their customers. We look forward to working with the distribution team here in the United States and with the headquarters in Vienna to bring the heritage, quality and innovation to the broadest customer communities within our territories. We’re eager to deliver our brand of professional, fast and friendly service to the professional audio dealers, contractors and customers of Florida.”

Crown Macro-Tech I Amplifiers Power Sounds Of Summer At Multiple Concert Events

Continuing a tradition of providing the leading amplifiers for tour sound applications, Crown’s MA-12000i amps were featured in XXXX Audio System’s live applications for a number of sold out shows this past summer. Artists such as KISS, Sammy Hagar, Jason Aldean, Frankie Valli, Daughtry, Lifehouse, Ne-Yo, John Michael Montgomery, Gladys Knight, Al Green, Sheryl Crow, Mike Ness and the Black Keys all performed with sound systems that integrated MA-12000i amps and JBL VerTec speaker systems.

Doug Pumphrey, sound integrator for XXXX Audio Systems, said, “We constantly rely on the MA-12000i amps because they are built for tour sound applications. These amplifiers are made to power the larger venues we dealt with on a consistent basis this past summer. We have and will continue to utilize Crown, specifically the MA12000i for all the artists we work with.”

Comprised of three models – the MA-5000i, MA-9000i and MA12000i – the Macro-Tech i Series builds upon its predecessor by incorporating Crown’s advanced, patented Class-I circuitry, which efficiently delivers significantly greater power while simultaneously reducing overall amplifier weight by more than half. The new lineup is also equipped with comprehensive status, fault, and load monitoring via standard Ethernet networking and Harman Professional’s HiQnet™ connectivity and control protocol and System Architect™ interface. Furthermore, a universal power-factor corrected power supply ensures that the new models can be used literally anywhere in the world, delivering full rated power regardless of where touring schedules may lead.

At 28 pounds, the Macro-Tech amps garner new appreciation because of their practicality for portable applications. “In our work, anytime you make something lighter and increase its performance at the same time you’ve done your job. We will continue to implement additional MA-12000i amps into our inventory for concert system applications,” stated Pumphrey.

BML-Blackbird Brings Events To Life With JBL Loudspeakers At Espace

Demonstrating the combination of versatility, high output and visually discreet appearance of JBL Professional loudspeakers, BML-Blackbird Theatrical Services recently installed the audio and lighting system at the new Espace entertainment space in Manhattan.

Located in midtown Manhattan on 42nd Street, Espace (pronounced es-pah’-chay) is a modern events venue that holds up to 500 people for seated dinners and 1,000 people for standing receptions. The 10,000-square-foot space hosts a variety of events including fashion shows, corporate functions and fundraisers.

While high-quality audio was an absolute requirement for the system, the owners of Espace did not want the audio equipment to interfere with the visually stunning appearance of the event room. “The owners of Espace wanted sound coverage everywhere possible in the room, but they didn’t want to see it,” said Don Quinton, Audio Engineer, BML-Blackbird. “The loudspeaker system had to be blended into the ceiling.“

Because of their optimal combination of high output, even coverage and visually discreet profile, BML opted for JBL Control 300 ceiling speakers for the lobby area and selected AC2212-WH loudspeakers in white for the main event space. The entire system is powered by Crown CDi4000 and I-Tech amplifiers. The system also includes a Soundcraft GB4 mixing console and processing with a dbx DriveRack 4800. “The speakers had to be in places where they could be heard but not seen, so we used the JBL Control 321 ceiling speakers and 312CS ceiling subwoofers, which took care of the pre-party room,” Quinton said. “The main room has JBL AC2212 loudspeakers throughout the room along with SRX718S subwoofers.”

“Using products from the Harman lineup gave us a great selection to use to meet the venues requirements,” Quinton added. “The system has a lot of flexibility for different types of events, and the finished system provides the ability to assign the audio to specific zones depending on the client’s request.”

For more information on BML-Blackbird Theatrical Services, please visit www.bml-blackbird-theatrical-lighting-video-sound.com/

A Video News Release on the Espace installation can be viewed here.