On Stage Audio Deploys World’s First Professional-Grade Application Of AVB Transfer Protocol Using HiQnet™-Enabled Harman Technologies From Crown Audio, BSS Audio and dbx

HiQnet™-enabled Crown Audio CTs Series amplifiers with USP4AVB cards, dbx SC 32 Digital Matrix Processor, BSS Audio / NETGEAR® AVB bridges, and HiQnet System Architect™ were employed by On Stage Audio to create a topography for the future of A/V at the Compuware national sales meeting.

NORTHRIDGE, California — In a highly advanced, yet-remarkably simple audio system design that points to the future of professional-grade integration, On Stage Audio (OSA) this month deployed the world’s first real-world test of the IEEE 802.1 AVB Bridging protocol.  OSA’s team, led by Jim Risgin, Vice President, configured and controlled a Crown Audio, dbx, and BSS Audio A/V system using Harman HiQnet for the Compuware national sales meeting in Detroit, Michigan and ran audio using Ethernet AVB standards.  The event, which took place at the Masonic Theater in downtown Detroit, allowed a crowd of 1,500 attendees to enjoy pristine digital audio and let the audio systems crew experience the future of A/V systems configuration, one in which everything works, all the time, and in which simplicity, not complexity, is the norm.

This watershed event marked the first time that AVB — the only standard transport protocol that allows time-synchronized, super-low-latency streaming audio and video over IEEE 802 Ethernet networks – was used as the primary audio transport for a major professional system.  Harman is a leader in the AVB initiative, chairing and editing the IEEE P1722 Committee and editing the IEEE P802.1Qat Committee and the company is also a pioneer in AVB switching and product development, via the groundbreaking efforts of the Harman Corporate Technology Group and System Development and Integration Group (SDIG). Their dedication to the development of AVB is signified by their membership in the AVnu Alliance; the industry forum dedicated to promoting the adoption of the IEEE 802.1 AVB and related IEEE 1722 and IEEE 1733 standards over various networking link-layers for the advancement of professional quality audio video.

At the core of Risgin’s design are 24 Crown CTs 3000  power amplifiers fitted with USP4/AVB cards, four 24-port BSS Audio / NETGEAR AVB bridges as well as four dbx SC 32 Digital Matrix Processors which were used as the AVB “on ramps” for the system processing.  The entire system (DSP and AVB) was controlled using Harman’s HiQnet protocol and System Architect software.

Jim Risgin, himself an early and active contributor to the AVB movement, assembled the Compuware AVB system working closely with SDIG.  Using the intuitive and customizable HiQnet System Architect drag-and-drop design interface to design his system, Risgin configured and programmed the dbx SC 32 Digital Matrix Processor for processing and using the AVB network as the matrix automatically instructed groups of Ethernet AVB amplifier channels associated with each physical zone to switch to that networked audio signal.

The dbx SC 32’s were deployed as the ‘on ramps’ were used to convert the incoming analog audio to digital AVB streams.  Fourteen audio streams were then routed via HiQnet System Architect to the 24 Crown CTs amplifiers with Crown USP4 4th generation DSP-based PIP™ (Programmable Input Processor) input modules connecting the amplifiers to the Ethernet network.  This enabled real-time transport of digital audio via Ethernet AVB and also allowed the CTs amplifiers to be remotely controlled and monitored via HiQnet System Architect.

“The systems performed flawlessly,” says Risgin, who notes that AVB-induced latency was less than 500 microseconds for all devices, and that delay from input to output maintained the <2ms specified by the AVB protocol. “Harman has done a wonderful job of making a complex process far more simple,” he states. “Everything on the network was completely transparent – troubleshooting was simple because we were able to verify that all the signal paths were correct, and there was instant metering available as soon as an AVB stream was connected to the network.  The Crown amplifiers’ load-monitoring capability verified that each speaker was working and with the correct loading, and the drag-and-drop audio routing really streamlined our workflow process.”

Comparing his AVB experience with traditional system design and routing, Risgin identified what has made the establishment of the AVB protocol so critical. “We would have been working with either analog audio signals on twisted-pair copper cabling, with the potential for failure increasing as the number of signal paths increased or other IP based transport solutions that would increase the complexity immensely” he explains. “With analog we’d have had to deal with interference, hum, and noise rejection issues while other IP solutions would have required an IT technician— in short, we’d have been working in a different age. Even with the existing networked audio protocols, AVB improved the simplicity of coordinating the system and organization of the components. Ethernet AVB has changed everything – for the better.”

Echoing this sentiment, Adam Holladay, Market Manager for SDIG notes, “Where HiQnet simplifies and enables complex programming, monitoring and control, AVB simplifies and enables complex multichannel audio and video transport.  The elegance and performance of the HiQnet and System Architect pairing is matched only by the comprehensive integration that is provided by AVB networking.  The commitment of the AVnu Alliance to advance AVB as the universal standard for audio and video transport  — indicated by the ever-increasing company membership —  really shows that we truly can expect significant industry-wide benefits to many members of the professional A/V community in the not-too-distant future.”

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 Harman’s Professional Division and is coordinated by the System Development and Integration Group (SDIG), a team of dedicated systems specialists based in Salt Lake City, Utah.

About On Stage Audio (OSA):
On Stage Audio (a division of OSA International, Inc.), one of North America's leading audio production organizations, With operations in Chicago and Las Vegas, On Stage Audio can be reached by contacting  Jim Risgin (630-227-1008, ext. 410, jrisgin@osacorp.com) or  Carmen Educate (702-458-0445, ext. 219, ceducate@osacorp.com).

For additional contact information see the OSA website at www.osacorp.com.

About Harman:
HARMAN (www.harman.com ) designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of audio and infotainment solutions for the automotive, consumer and professional markets – supported by 15 leading brands including AKG®, Harman Kardon®, Infinity®, JBL®, Lexicon® and Mark Levinson®. The Company is admired by audiophiles across multiple generations and supports leading professional entertainers and the venues where they perform. More than 20 million automobiles on the road today are equipped with HARMAN audio and infotainment systems.  HARMAN has a workforce of about 11,000 people across the Americas, Europe and Asia, and reported sales of $3.2 billion for the last twelve months ended March 31, 2010.  The Company’s shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol NYSE:HAR.
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Harman Professional Links With Com-Net Software To Launch IDX Information Delivery Systems That Couple Harman Audio Networking And Performance With Com-Net Software’s Market-Proven Interface And Control

LAS VEGAS, Nevada — Realigning expectations for high-performance, easy to integrate communication systems, Harman Professional today announced a partnership with information display and paging specialist Com-Net Software to launch a series of new communication technologies starting with the co-branded IDX Information Delivery Systems that debuts today at InfoComm. The IDX System couples Harman’s Crown CTs, BSS London and HiQnet™ technologies on the back end with Com-Net Software ECLIPSX Flight Information Display System or ECLIPSX Transit Information Display System at the front end.  The combined result is great sounding, highly reliable audio networks with application-engineered interface and control in a versatile, cost-efficient package.

According to Van Williamson, Sales & Marketing Manager Commercial Systems, Harman Professional, working with Com-Net Software made a very attractive proposition.  “Rather than build a system from the ground up and learn paging at our customers’ expense, we have the opportunity to work with the market leader in flight information display and message delivery logic.  The new IDX System hits the ground running to deliver considerable audio networking and control without impacting the end-user interface or workflow.  It’s literally the best of both worlds!”

The IDX System delivers audio solutions integrated with signage products and provides integrators serving customers in paging and life safety for infrastructure, healthcare, transportation and government.  Featuring Com-Net software logic and interface software deployed on a database platform speaking to a BSS London and Crown CTs audio network via CobraNet and Harman HiQnet systems configuration and control protocol, the IDX System is a powerful, unified communication system.  Operators can monitor the status of every critical component of a system for status and full control over recording, playback, volume, and scheduling of audio and visual messages.

Commenting on the introduction, Chad Timms, Vice President, Product Development, Com-Net software said today, “Harman Professional deserves considerable respect for recognizing that one size does not fit all: that mission-critical paging systems require very specific feature-sets and fail-safes to the professional audio systems deployed in entertainment, sport or retail!  Because paging is a demanding market where the slightest hiccup can result in mass confusion or personal injury, customers need a proven solution developed by trusted experts — going any other route would be short-sighted and counter-intuitive.”

Underscoring Timms point, Com-Net Software and Harman have worked together closely to deploy several major transit facilities in the United States already prompting the companies to work closer together to productize their solution: The IDX Information Delivery System.  The companies have agreed to work closely together to build upon the platform and develop a range of modular paging systems and signage solutions to make airports, train stations, healthcare institutions and other large facilities safer, friendlier and more communicative.

In doing so, Harman Professional is providing its global sales and distribution teams with a range of compelling new solutions to serve new customers in paging and life safety for infrastructure, healthcare, transportation and government markets.  Harman will immediately be providing the IDX Information Delivery System to international partners.

“Harman is committed to growth and well-positioned to meet that commitment at the corporate level, the brand level, the manufacturer-rep level and the international distributor level,” Williamson concluded.  “We believe that well-directed innovation will provide more customers with better sound and we’re pleased to have partners like Com-Net in this important, exciting mission.”
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 Harman’s Professional Division and is coordinated by the System Development and Integration Group (SDIG), a team of dedicated systems specialists based in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Signature Technologies, Inc. dba Com-Net Software is a leading provider of Audio-Visual Customer Communication Systems for the transportation, retail, hospitality, education and healthcare industries. Com-Net is a market leader in providing sophisticated turnkey solutions that include hardware, software, installation, maintenance and support throughout North America.

HARMAN (www.harman.com) designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of audio and infotainment solutions for the automotive, consumer and professional markets – supported by 15 leading brands including AKG®, Harman Kardon®, Infinity®, JBL®, Lexicon® and Mark Levinson®. The Company is admired by audiophiles across multiple generations and supports leading professional entertainers and the venues where they perform. More than 20 million automobiles on the road today are equipped with HARMAN audio and infotainment systems.  HARMAN has a workforce of about 11,000 people across the Americas, Europe and Asia, and reported sales of $3.2 billion for the last twelve months ended March 31, 2010.  The Company’s shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol NYSE:HAR.

On Stage Audio Deploys World’s First Professional-Grade Application Of AVB Transfer Protocol Using HiQnet™-Enabled Harman Technologies From Crown Audio, BSS Audio and dbx

HiQnet™-enabled Crown Audio CTs Series amplifiers with USP4AVB cards, dbx SC 32 Digital Matrix Processor, BSS Audio / NETGEAR® AVB bridges, and HiQnet System Architect™ were employed by On Stage Audio to create a topography for the future of A/V at the Compuware national sales meeting.

NORTHRIDGE, California — In a highly advanced, yet-remarkably simple audio system design that points to the future of professional-grade integration, On Stage Audio (OSA) this month deployed the world’s first real-world test of the IEEE 802.1 AVB Bridging protocol.  OSA’s team, led by Jim Risgin, Vice President, configured and controlled a Crown Audio, dbx, and BSS Audio A/V system using Harman HiQnet for the Compuware national sales meeting in Detroit, Michigan and ran audio using Ethernet AVB standards.  The event, which took place at the Masonic Theater in downtown Detroit, allowed a crowd of 1,500 attendees to enjoy pristine digital audio and let the audio systems crew experience the future of A/V systems configuration, one in which everything works, all the time, and in which simplicity, not complexity, is the norm.

This watershed event marked the first time that AVB — the only standard transport protocol that allows time-synchronized, super-low-latency streaming audio and video over IEEE 802 Ethernet networks – was used as the primary audio transport for a major professional system.  Harman is a leader in the AVB initiative, chairing and editing the IEEE P1722 Committee and editing the IEEE P802.1Qat Committee and the company is also a pioneer in AVB switching and product development, via the groundbreaking efforts of the Harman Corporate Technology Group and System Development and Integration Group (SDIG). Their dedication to the development of AVB is signified by their membership in the AVnu Alliance; the industry forum dedicated to promoting the adoption of the IEEE 802.1 AVB and related IEEE 1722 and IEEE 1733 standards over various networking link-layers for the advancement of professional quality audio video.

At the core of Risgin’s design are 24 Crown CTs 3000  power amplifiers fitted with USP4/AVB cards, four 24-port BSS Audio / NETGEAR AVB bridges as well as four dbx SC 32 Digital Matrix Processors which were used as the AVB “on ramps” for the system processing.  The entire system (DSP and AVB) was controlled using Harman’s HiQnet protocol and System Architect software.

Jim Risgin, himself an early and active contributor to the AVB movement, assembled the Compuware AVB system working closely with SDIG.  Using the intuitive and customizable HiQnet System Architect drag-and-drop design interface to design his system, Risgin configured and programmed the dbx SC 32 Digital Matrix Processor for processing and using the AVB network as the matrix automatically instructed groups of Ethernet AVB amplifier channels associated with each physical zone to switch to that networked audio signal.

The dbx SC 32’s were deployed as the ‘on ramps’ were used to convert the incoming analog audio to digital AVB streams.  Fourteen audio streams were then routed via HiQnet System Architect to the 24 Crown CTs amplifiers with Crown USP4 4th generation DSP-based PIP™ (Programmable Input Processor) input modules connecting the amplifiers to the Ethernet network.  This enabled real-time transport of digital audio via Ethernet AVB and also allowed the CTs amplifiers to be remotely controlled and monitored via HiQnet System Architect.

“The systems performed flawlessly,” says Risgin, who notes that AVB-induced latency was less than 500 microseconds for all devices, and that delay from input to output maintained the <2ms specified by the AVB protocol. “Harman has done a wonderful job of making a complex process far more simple,” he states. “Everything on the network was completely transparent – troubleshooting was simple because we were able to verify that all the signal paths were correct, and there was instant metering available as soon as an AVB stream was connected to the network.  The Crown amplifiers’ load-monitoring capability verified that each speaker was working and with the correct loading, and the drag-and-drop audio routing really streamlined our workflow process.”

Comparing his AVB experience with traditional system design and routing, Risgin identified what has made the establishment of the AVB protocol so critical. “We would have been working with either analog audio signals on twisted-pair copper cabling, with the potential for failure increasing as the number of signal paths increased or other IP based transport solutions that would increase the complexity immensely” he explains. “With analog we’d have had to deal with interference, hum, and noise rejection issues while other IP solutions would have required an IT technician— in short, we’d have been working in a different age. Even with the existing networked audio protocols, AVB improved the simplicity of coordinating the system and organization of the components. Ethernet AVB has changed everything – for the better.”

Echoing this sentiment, Adam Holladay, Market Manager for SDIG notes, “Where HiQnet simplifies and enables complex programming, monitoring and control, AVB simplifies and enables complex multichannel audio and video transport.  The elegance and performance of the HiQnet and System Architect pairing is matched only by the comprehensive integration that is provided by AVB networking.  The commitment of the AVnu Alliance to advance AVB as the universal standard for audio and video transport  — indicated by the ever-increasing company membership —  really shows that we truly can expect significant industry-wide benefits to many members of the professional A/V community in the not-too-distant future.”

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 Harman’s Professional Division and is coordinated by the System Development and Integration Group (SDIG), a team of dedicated systems specialists based in Salt Lake City, Utah.

About On Stage Audio (OSA):

On Stage Audio (a division of OSA International, Inc.), one of North America's leading audio production organizations, With operations in Chicago and Las Vegas, On Stage Audio can be reached by contacting  Jim Risgin (630-227-1008, ext. 410, jrisgin@osacorp.com) or  Carmen Educate (702-458-0445, ext. 219, ceducate@osacorp.com).

For additional contact information see the OSA website at www.osacorp.com.

About Harman:

HARMAN (www.harman.com) designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of audio and infotainment solutions for the automotive, consumer and professional markets – supported by 15 leading brands including AKG®, Harman Kardon®, Infinity®, JBL®, Lexicon® and Mark Levinson®. The Company is admired by audiophiles across multiple generations and supports leading professional entertainers and the venues where they perform. More than 20 million automobiles on the road today are equipped with HARMAN audio and infotainment systems.  HARMAN has a workforce of about 11,000 people across the Americas, Europe and Asia, and reported sales of $3.2 billion for the last twelve months ended March 31, 2010.  The Company’s shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol NYSE:HAR.

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Harman Professional Puts AVB Front And Center At InfoComm 2010, Hosts A Series Of Seminars And Training Sessions

In a move to provide systems integrators with deeper knowledge of the features, benefits and applications of the AVB protocol for multichannel A/V networking over standards-based Ethernet, Harman Professional will hold multiple training sessions and discussions throughout InfoComm 2010 that focus exclusively on the new protocol. The training sessions and discussion will take place at the Las Vegas Convention Center on separate days throughout the 3-day exhibition, while its new AVB system, which demonstrates the benefits of the technology with an emphasis on Houses of Worship applications, will also be on display at the Harman Professional booth, number C6236.

The House of Worship demonstration system features the three interconnected elements of Harman’s AVB system solution: next generation hardware, next generation software, and the next generation audio network. The next generation hardware consists of a dbx SC Series digital matrix processors, Crown CT series amplifiers with USP4/AVB installed, BSS Audio AVB wall plates, and the BSS Audio / Netgear Ethernet AVB switch. The system is operated through next-generation software HiQnet System Architect™ version 2 with its new configuration and routing paradigms based on designing the system directly ‘into’ a floor plan of the venue; all audio running over the next-generation audio network, Ethernet AVB.  Visitors to the booth will not only be able to experience the extrodinary simplicity of Harman’s AVB routing mechanisms, but also take real-time control of the system with System Architect’s new full-screen kiosk mode functionality.

“As more members of the professional A/V community begin to adopt AVB protocols, and the single A/V network standard becomes a reality, Harman Professional will continue to support and introduce new products that enhance the efficiency of A/V delivery,” commented Adam Holladay, Market Manager, System Development and Integration Group. “It is important for us to educate our customers on the benefits of AVB, and we encourage anyone who is at InfoComm to come by our booth or seminars to learn more – particularly those connected with House of Worship system design.”

The first public event, a training session entitled “Designing The World’s First Ethernet AVB Systems With HiQnet System Architect”, will focus on configuring an Ethernet AVB system with System Architect in a House of Worship system design, and will take place on Wednesday June 9 from 2:30pm-4:30pm at room N208. It will be hosted by a complete Harman Professional team, including Adam Holladay and Tom Cram for SDIG, Iain Gregory for dbx / BSS Audio, and Brad Benn for Crown.

The next event will be an AVnu Alliance™ panel - featuring representation from Harman International, and several other AVnu Alliance member companies - and will take place on Friday, June 11 from 10:30am-12:00pm in room N219. The panel will discuss the new IEEE 802.1 AVB standards and how they affect the A/V community.  See avnu.org for more information about the alliance.

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 Harman’s Professional Division and is coordinated by the System Development and Integration Group (SDIG), a team of dedicated systems specialists based in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Harman Professional will also be showcasing its new AVB product technologies along with other members of the AVnu Alliance at the AVnu Alliance Pavilion at booth number C7934 throughout the show.

AKG’s New iPhone App Delivers Freedom, Flexibility and Functionality For Mobile Monitoring Of Wireless Microphone and IEM Systems

Starting in March of 2010, in addition to great sound and reliable performance of AKG’s wireless systems, users will have a new tool to browse, monitor, and control their wireless microphone and IEM systems: their iPhone®. With the introduction of their new iPhone application - which will be available for free in Apple’s iTunes® store – AKG has effectively streamlined the workflow for wireless microphone monitoring and configuration by linking Harman’s HiQnet® protocol to the iPhone and iPod® Touch app via Wi-Fi® network.

The new application can be used to monitor wireless system parameters and radio frequency connections on stage for some of AKG’s most popular wireless microphone systems, including the DMS 700, the WMS 4000/4500, and the IVM 4 in ear monitoring system. The user can easily browse through the entire wireless system within the device list, monitor each device and it’s parameters separately within the stripe view, or use the RF monitor for checking the radio frequency connection of each wireless device.

“With the introduction of our new iPhone application, AKG has continued to build on the industry-leading versatility offered with our wireless microphone and IEM systems,” said Philipp Sonnleitner, product manager for HiQnet and system integration. “AKG users now have the ability to control and monitor every aspect of their wireless systems from the palm of their hands anywhere on the venue.”

The iPhone application is connected via Wi-Fi to a wireless router, which is connected to the AKG HUB 4000 Q. The application can be used side by side with Harman Pro System Architect® because the entire system is based on Harman’s advanced HiQnet® protocol.

JBL PD Series Loudspeakers Complete An Acoustical Masterpiece At St. Francis Of Assisi Church

 A new audio system at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Bend, Oregon, features JBL Professional PD Series loudspeakers, chosen to deliver the highest articulation with the least amount of speakers possible. Morgan Sound of Lynwood, Washington was responsible for the acoustic consulting and design and, using its past experience with the PD Series as the deciding factor in the choice of speakers, teamed with Anderson Group International of Eugene, Oregon for the installation.

The installation at the St. Francis of Assisi Church initially presented many challenges to the team: it’s a very large space with polished concrete floors, CMU walls and granite and marble covering the substantial altar platform, all of which work together to create a very reverberant room. There was a desire to maximize the presentation of sound without filling the entire auditorium with large, overbearing speakers, which is why Morgan Sound President Charlie Morgan ultimately chose the JBL PD series, powered by Crown amplifiers. With the exceptional pattern control of the JBL speakers, the church presenters are able to reach high SPL levels when needed with excellent speech clarity.

“As the Application Engineer at JBL, Jay Fullmer’s advice was most helpful in using the PD boxes,” said Charlie Morgan, President of Morgan Sound. “The sound in the room is focused, very intelligible and even throughout the entire seating area. In short, we couldn’t be happier with the result.”

In addition to the JBL PD series loudspeakers and Crown amps, there are JBL Control 29AV loudspeakers, all of which are controlled by a BSS London processor. An analog mixer on the platform gives the choir director control of the local inputs, and there is also the option to run everything in static mode with 16 microphone channels controlled through the BSS London processor. The system includes Harman’s HiQnet™ System Architect™ software for quick and easy configuration.

“We finished the installation in the 700-person auditorium of the church two months ago, and the customer is just thrilled with the result,” continued Morgan. “Using the Harman brands together gives the user a tremendous ease of use, and topping it off with the JBL loudspeakers means that they are getting the best possible sound available.”

Morgan Sound, (www.morgansound.com) based in Lynnwood, WA is a 35-year veteran of live sound and design/install services.  The company features a wide range of Harman products in its inventory, including JBL VERTEC Series and Crown Macro-Tech amplification.

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.

Network Connectivity, Configuration And Control Take Center Stage At Pro Light & Sound: Harman Professional Leads Panels And Educational Sessions At Frankfurt Summit

As networked audio and video transform every element of systems integration for touring, fixed installation, studio design and MI, Harman Professional reaffirms its commitment to universal connectivity with leadership of the AVnu Alliance for A/V Standards-Based Networking, and also its determination to provide audio professionals with a highly intuitive yet powerful configuration and control protocol with HiQnet System Architect™.  Underscoring this dual commitment to make the network more useful and more usable, the company will sponsor or participate in two important events at Pro Light & Sound in Frankfurt next week:

HiQnet System Architect – Architecting The Next Generation In Audio System Design Software
Where: Room: Transparenz 2 at the Portalhaus
When: 9:45am, Wednesday March 24
Speakers: Adam Holladay, Iain Gregory

An overview of the new audio system design and workflow philosophies introduced in the next generation of HiQnet System Architect software, which together with the configuration of Ethernet AVB network dramatically impact the design process for the system designer.

The future of A/V Standards-Based Networking: IEEE 802.1 Audio/Video Bridging (AVB)
Where: Room: Frequenz 2 at the Portalhaus
When: 3:45pm, Friday March 26
Panel discussion with members of the AVnu Alliance: Adam Holladay for Harman + representatives from Avid, Meyer Sound, Broadcom and LabX

This panel discussion will explore the role of the IEEE 802.1 Audio/Video Bridging (AVB) Standards in the professional AV industry, as well as consumer electronics and automotive applications. An in-depth explanation of AVB and related IEEE standards will be presented, followed by a discussion of the advantages of an open non-proprietary technology, the role of silicon makers to ensure a cost-effective solution and the critical role that a compliance program will play to ensure interoperability of AVB devices.

Commenting on the sessions, Adam Holladay, Market Manager for Harman International’s System Development and Integration Group (SDIG), noted, “Like all technology businesses, the economic health of the professional audio and video industries has been driven by innovation. We firmly believe that there is massive potential for highly innovative, cost-effective, easy-to-use and efficiently deployed network technology to transform and grow our business and that of our customers!  Today, we’re advancing network functionality with HiQnet, the AVnu Alliance and AVB and we’re transforming design and usability with System Architect. These events at Pro Light & Sound will be valuable educational opportunities for the community of AV professionals to learn more about these important initiatives.”

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.”

Harman Professional Backs Ultima Limited In Award-Winning Television Productions

As Nigeria’s foremost provider of television content and production, Ultima Limited has been using Harman Professional products to drive some of Nigeria’s most successful programs. For five seasons of “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire” and two seasons of “Project Fame,” Ultima Limited has used JBL loudspeakers, AKG microphones, Crown amplifiers and dbx processors installed by ET Quake Multimedia to become Nigeria’s premier television production company.

Also included in the audio system is an array of other Harman Professional products including various AKG microphones like the D5 and the WMS40 Pro Flexx, 20 dbx 266 XLs set up in the production room, and Crown XTi1000 amplifiers. For a show like “Project Fame,” where 15 hopeful musicians, singers, and dancers battle it out on a weekly basis to win the grand prize, a versatile system that provides optimal clarity and intelligibility was essential. There was also a need for a system that could fit into a small space but deliver powerful sound at the same time, and the JBL VRX918SP speakers satisfied those requirements with ease.

“We chose the JBL VRX928LA/918SP line arrays because of its compact size and accurate coverage,” said FOH Engineer Vincent Chime. “Bearing in mind that the system is purely for TV, we wanted something that could deliver excellent coverage, high SPL, and had little or no visibility, and that’s exactly what we got.”

In addition to the JBL VRX928LA, VRX918SP, and VRX-SMAF speakers, AKG microphones, Crown amplifiers, and dbx processors, ET Quake Multimedia also installed a Soundcraft MH2-44 console for its intelligent clarity and definition as well as a number of Lexicon processors. With all of the Harman Professional products in place, system engineers were able to utilize Harman’s HiQnet™ System Architect™ to plug and play the sound with ease.

“The package of Harman Professional products, linked together with Harman HiQnet, allowed us to easily run the entire system,” continued Chime. “With System Architect, we had the system up and running in a very short amount of time, and with the JBL loudspeakers powered by Crown amplifiers, everything sounded fantastic.”

PAXT Limited provided the technical engineering assistance, sales management and shipping to the project. PAXT Limited are a UK based specialist sales and marketing office for the Harman group of companies.

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.”

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 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.

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.”

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.

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.”

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.

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 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.”

Massive Harman Professional Audio System Provides Fitting Platform For China’s National Day Spectacular

In a compelling demonstration of the high performance and depth of integration of Harman Professional audio components, Hong Kong-based ACE Professional Sound and Lighting, deployed an extremely large integrated audio system featuring components from JBL Professional, Soundcraft, Crown Audio and BSS Audio and configured using Harman HiQnet System Architect™ to support China’s National Day celebrations.  Held October 1– the 60th anniversary of the 1949 revolution — this year’s celebrations featured 200,000 participants, an array of large, festive floats representing cultural, sporting and national successes and culminated in a 60,000-person evening rendition of “I Love China” in Tiananmen Square accompanied by a 300,000-shell fireworks display.

Overall sound design was delegated to Radio Film and TV Design Institute of the China Media Group, with the bulk of audio-specific systems integration shouldered by Hong Kong-based ACE Professional Sound and Lighting.  Although the sheer magnitude of audio logistics outstripped the capabilities of any single supplier, ACE contributed the lion’s share – roughly 80% – of all audio gear deployed in and around Tiananmen Square, with near universal reliance on highly integrated systems from Harman Professional.  All told, equipment supplied by ACE included nearly 700 JBL loudspeakers plus more than 480 Crown amplifiers, 57 BSS Audio DSP units, and 46 Soundcraft analogue and digital mixing desks.

“We’d also supplied systems for the 50th anniversary in 1999,” says ACE Vice President Bingo Tso, “but this year’s project was perhaps ten times as large.  The size of the systems, along with newer technologies – line arrays, digital consoles and DSP amplifiers – made it extremely important to have everything working together.  Fortunately, using HiQnet System Architect™, all the Harman Professional equipment integrated perfectly.”

During the parade, the total street frontage requiring audio coverage measured nearly 10 km.  Coverage would have been a simple task, except that the stands adjoined a 17 m wide moat.  To cover the broad expanse, ACE configured fourteen short arrays, each with two JBL VerTec VT4888 3-way cabinets atop a VT4882 subwoofer, with each combination driven by three Crown I-Tech 4000 amplifiers.  The array produced ample power to cross the water, while the “short stack” configuration remained discreetly out of TV camera view.  Two larger but well-disguised arrays, each with eight JBL VerTec VT4888 and four VerTec VT4882, covered the gate tower structure, with augmentation on the VIP balcony from 56 JBL MS26 cabinets on the floor and additional JBL AC16 cabinets mounted overhead, again powered by Crown I-Tech 4000 amplifiers.

For broadcast sound, the discrete live sources, numerous submixes, and prerecorded material converged on a 96-input Soundcraft Vi6 digital console.  Activity at the primary live sound control room (located at the gate stands) revolved around dual Vi6 desks, one with 96 inputs and a second with 64.  A second audio control position (equipped with the same combination of Vi6 desks plus a 48-input Vi4) was set up in Tiananmen Square specifically for the mammoth orchestra and chorus.

“The snapshot memories and internal processing on the Vi6 desks proved extremely useful,” notes Tso.  “As we had so many different signal sources at various distances up to a kilometer or more away. We used the on-board processing for EQ and to time-align sources to a common zero point.”

The live mixes were either delivered directly to the BSS London loudspeaker drive processors, or, for the longer hauls, first distributed through a fiber optic matrixing and distribution network.  In most cases, analog cables paralleled the digital or fiber optic ones as a safety net.  “We had signal redundancy at nearly all levels,” notes Ben Lui, ACE’s assistant general manager for pro sound.  “For example, the new Crown I-Tech HD Series amplifiers have built-in signal sensing with automatic switching.  If the digital signal had failed for any reason – though it never did – then the amplifiers would have instantly switched to the analog inputs.”

The many other distributed main loudspeaker systems and monitoring systems spread through the expansive site would require a small book to catalogue in detail.  However, in brief, we can note that much of the street-side coverage was provided via custom-made (in China) column speakers designed specifically to blend with the ornate lampposts on which they were mounted.  Low-mid drivers were domestically manufactured, with the 4”-diaphragm HF drivers supplied by JBL. The complement of approximately 100 lamppost speakers was powered by racks of Crown I-Tech 5000HD amplifiers mounted in the Great Hall of the People, adjacent to the Square.  Hundreds of additional loudspeakers – drawn from JBL’s PRX, SRX, VRX and Control Series – were assigned duties along the avenues, in VIP rooms, at entrances and exits, around parade marshalling points, and for monitoring in performance areas.

Dozens of supplemental audio mixing points were required as well.  For the parade, 22 small analog mixers (mainly Soundcraft GB2R) were placed along the parade route to, picking up ambient sound and routing into the Nexus fiber optic snake system.  Additional compact digital consoles (Soundcraft Si2 and Si3) were at the hub of smaller indoor and outdoor systems for the various parties and meetings surrounding the main celebrations.

Harman Professional HiQnet™ Audio System Scores Highly At English Premiership Side Burnley F.C. Stadium

Designed by AMS Acoustics and installed by ETA Sound, new audio system is world’s
first deployment of Harman HiQnet™ System Architect V 2.0.

As Burnley F.C. gain promotion to England’s elite, new fully integrated PA/VA compliant
Harman Professional public address system puts Turf Moor system in the same league
as Europe’s greatest stadium systems.

BURNLEY, England —  Harman International Industries (NYSE: HAR), a leading provider of branded audio and infotainment electronics for the home, the car, and sound professionals, today announced the successful completion of an advanced networked audio system at Turf Moor, the stadium of English Premiership football club, Burnley F.C. Having recently gained promotion to English football’s top tier for the first time in 33 years, it was fitting that Burnley F.C’s first clash would be with reigning champions, Manchester United and with such a seeming-massive challenge in hand, Burnley F.C.’s managers sought to effect a 12th man home advantage at Turf Moor.  They engaged acoustic consultants, AMS Acoustics and integrators ETA Sound to design and install a fully integrated PA/VA compliant public address system that would put Turf Moor system in the same league as Europe’s greatest stadium systems.  The resulting system, designed and controlled using Harman HiQnet System Architect™ and featuring components from Harman Professional brands including JBL, Crown and BSS Audio, received a rousing reception, was covered widely in the local press and, most importantly, a famous David vs. Goliath victory was recorded.

AMS Acoustics had already implemented an earlier first phase upgrade last season to bring three stands into VA compliance. During the course of this exercise the capture of a full range of measurements was required and the resultant data, after analysis, was used as the cornerstone for an entirely new design the following year.  During the short closed season, AMS returned with ETA Sound to implant a complete Harman Pro solution, using a fiber-based signal network that would extend to the three main stands — the North (James Hargreaves) stand, the East (Jimmy McIlroy) stand and South (Bob Lord) stand.

Tasked with supplying a voice alarm-compliant system with high STI (Speech Transmission Index), AMS Acoustics’ project designer Helen Goddard made her product selection with care. Her design enabled the voice evacuation system to double up to meet on-pitch entertainment requirements.  The company needed to achieve peak level in an emergency scenario, related to crowd noise. “We knew the system would have to achieve a maximum of 102-105dB(A) and this meant we needed to use loudspeakers that would be able to achieve these kind of levels without going into compression,” Goddard explained.

First, the JBL loudspeakers were set a number of challenges — including a performance evaluation in AMS Acoustics’ anechoic chamber, even to the point of a destruction test. This was supported by Sound Technology, the Harman Professional distributors, who provided all the necessary back-up.  The acousticians then set about designing the control, signal path and zoning matrix, opting for an integrated Harman Professional package based on system optimization and cost-efficiency. “As the budget was quite tight this was the logical way to go,” stated Goddard.

Crown CTs amplifiers, fitted PIP-USP3 speaker processing units, BSS Audio Soundweb London DSP devices, with BLU-link, running on a fiber backbone — and independent HP ProCurve network switches across all rack locations — form the system architecture. Media converters are provided for the BLU-link data and HP GBICS-LC, providing fiber interfacing on the HP ProCurve switches, and the infrastructure provides one dual redundant Ethernet network as well as an independent ring for the BSS AUDIO BLU-Link audio transport.

In this fully-redundant design, UPS systems provide all the power conditioning and mains support in the event of a power failure.  The installation was also notable for the advanced DSP programming skills of ID Networks’ Martin Barbour, using the attributes of Harman Professional’s new System Architect v2.00 software — the first use anywhere in the world.  “Given that this was a fast fit job it saved me huge amounts of time,” Barbour said.

Eddie Thomas of ETA Sound worked closely with Tom Williams, Sound Technology’s acoustician. In fact the latter had been closely involved from the outset of the project — taking part in the initial concept discussions with AMS Acoustics, supporting the equipment testing and measurement procedures, setting up the load monitoring — and finally assisting with system commissioning.

In total 16 JBL AM6315/95 (90° x 50°) full range loudspeakers with rotatable horn and 12 AM6200/95 mid-high loudspeakers have been used. In the South Stand JBL AM6315’s have been deployed, mounted horizontally to counteract sightline restrictions, with the horn rotated. Covering the East stand are three clusters, each with JBL AM6315/95 in the vertical plane and JBL AM6200/64 covering the lower raked seating (90°x 50°).  In the North stand there are five similar clusters of the same, with the JBL AM6315/95 mounted at the top in the vertical plane, and JBL AM6200/64 bolted under to cover the lower rake.  An additional four JBL AM6200/64s (60°x40°) are also suspended on the north stand, specifically to provide pitch coverage.

Each of the three equipment rack locations features two HP ProCurve switches, two BSS Audio Soundweb London BLU-160 DSP’s and Socomec UPS in each room (as well as the two fiber converter interfaces for BLU-Link). Says Barbour: “Two BLU-160s in each location gives us more than enough DSP — they are hugely powerful devices.”

The network services a total of 23 PA zones although these are logically broken down into stands, concourses and turnstile areas. The BSS AUDIO Ausio Soundweb London devices are configured for a maximum of 72 outputs and between 24 inputs.

Barbour explains, “Originally this was to have been a CAT5 installation but when the client moved the rack locations this took us outside the Ethernet 100m range — so we suddenly had to rethink the networking aspect.” Eddie Thomas’s team then designed and arranged a fiber network to be provided and installed within two weeks.

“Installing BLU-Link at this stage provides us with the audio routing headroom we need when the expansion works commence,” Barbour says. “The channel count and ease of use made it an obvious decision.”

The majority of London Architect’s Logic programming is dedicated to the graphical user interface and voice evacuation autonomy, which is permanently monitored. This allows any of the evacuation messages or microphones to be routed to any of the PA zones, while in each rack location there are also local access microphones as a final tier of security.  Each output has its own independent gains and EQ with three volume settings — low (dropping the system down to 85dB), match day level (which runs at 100dB) and the emergency maximum level (of 102-105dBA).

Martin Barbour says that running both the new London Architect v2.06 and Harman HiQnet System Architect v2 software offered huge advantages.  A notable feature of the new Soundweb system designer is the Wire Tags feature. “This feature comes into its own with complex and vast DSP or Logic designs. It enables me to keep the design tidy, easy to follow, and when used in combination with macros, easily expandable.

“And in terms of stability and performance you don’t get any more pressure than a visit from Manchester United FC on your opening home game, with the world’s first System Architect v2.0 install! The system performed flawlessly, and thanks to the time saving attributes of both software applications, we were able to fit the demands to the very tight deadlines.”

His adoption of the new System Architect software was particularly inspired and was the result of having been engaged as a Harman Pro developer partner for the past 12 months. “So we knew well ahead of time what SDIG was planning with its upcoming version of System Architect,” he states.

However, it wasn’t until final beta testing during June / July, where he saw their work in a tangible form, that it became obvious how suited this major update would be for an upcoming stadium project which had an extremely tight time scale.

“I presented the idea of using System Architect v2.0 on the Burnley FC project to Adam Holladay at SDIG who helped by providing an interface with the R&D team as we ironed out some small issues,” he recalls. “As the driving force behind the new workflow based approach to System Architect, Adam was best placed to translate my observations and comments in to some last-minute enhancements ready for the final release.

“During the design stage, my first impressions were that the user interface was more refined and it was obvious that a great deal of thought had been put into how the software would be used. The new layout guides you through a number of basic steps in much the same way that a software configuration wizard could but without the restrictions often associated with multiple choice Q&A based setup guides.

“With the new workflow-based design approach of System Architect v2.0 we can associate the amplifier channels with physical and logical areas within the venue. This allows the software to automatically create default control panels for each logical zone, which would otherwise have had to be built manually.”

System Architect was used to configure the CTs amplifiers across three rack rooms covering three stands and the pitch. Each stand is divided into a number of zones depending upon its size and we were able to quickly build up a collection of panels for either complete stand or zoned control to aid with system setup and commissioning. Multi-parameter assignments and filtering controls allowed us to implement global buttons to activate each of the fault monitoring status reports which was far quicker than going in to each amplifier and activating these controls manually.

What this provided was a topographical view of the venue in a logical form with direct access to a simple user control panel for every area of the venue. Devices are contained in representations of the real rack rooms and individual DSP or amplifier channels are associated with the correct parts of the venue, all without manually building any control panels or links. “This approach basically takes away lots of the legwork required to achieve simple and consistent room control for distributed audio systems,” he says.

Many other features, already found in prior releases of System Architect, have also been reworked — including the ability to associate many parameters with custom controls. This has been made more user friendly through easy access to all devices and new filtering controls.

“We now have a great starting point upon which we can build as the stadium develops further over the next 12-24 months,” says Martin Barbour.

“The exciting thing about System Architect v2 is not just what they have now, but what they have laid the foundations for in the future,” he continues. “System Architect v2 approaches system design with a new perspective, it replaces the need to manually translate physical devices to logical areas. It subtly guides you to a common starting point where you have full access to the critical controls for your venue. It makes the creation of more complete and user friendly control interfaces faster and more efficient.

“In fact if Harman Pro continue to make such significant time saving upgrades in each major release, I’m going to have to start finding more projects to keep me busy….”

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 AUDIO®, 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.”

About ID Networks
ID Networks was formed in 2006 to cater for the growing demand for highly professional design services in the DSP and Networked Audio markets. With a strong background covering many of the leading DSP and Amplifier products as well as networked audio transports, ID Networks has cemented itself as a leading provider for networked audio system design through some of the most iconic venues across the World including Wembley National Stadium, London’s O2 Arena and the Atlantis Hotel and Resort in Dubai. Based in the United Kingdom and handling projects all across Europe and the Middle East, ID Networks is set to tackle the largest and most complex Systems Integration and Programming projects.”

Studer Consoles With RELINK Functionality Play Leading Role At The National Theatre In Darmstadt

The Darmstadt Staatstheater (National Theatre) in Germany is a multipurpose four-section arts centre, dedicated to opera, ballet, musicals and drama. In 2004 it underwent a major redevelopment at the hands of Waagner-Biro and when it reopened in September 2006 it revealed not only a new entrance and foyer, but an entire technology infrastructure including a new stage and control system, based around a Studer Vista 8 digital mixing platform at the front of house position.

The 52-fader Vista 8 is accompanied by a 20-fader remote desk, which can either be used in the hall or as an extension elsewhere. In addition, more than 60 Crown CTs amplifiers were installed, with PIP modules in the output stage, centrally controlled and monitored via the Harman HiQnet™ System Architect™ control interface. This allows control of the amplifiers from the mixer, and the settings of the amplifiers to be called up as snapshots in the Vista 8 — opening up new communication possibilities between the mixer and peripheral audio technology.

The clients were so delighted with the flexibility and reliability of the Studer 8 — providing a control universe of 550 inputs and 480 outputs — that when they came to equip their recording studio recently, they opted for a Vista 7. They knew this would ease workflow by keeping control within the same operating environment, but there was also one other important aspect, which helped drive the sale.

For both the Vista 8 and Vista 7 can now be connected using Studer’s new RELINK Resource Linking I/O Sharing System, which enables the sharing of resources in both directions.

Christoph Keller was the project leader for Audio Pro Heilbronn, Studer’s German distributor, which was responsible for both console sales: “This was an important development, due to the fact that this is a new technology offered by Studer, and was only launched at last September’s IBC Show. This is one of the first installations where this technology has been used,” Keller said.

The Vista 7 was specified with 42 faders; Dual Joystick Integrated matrix with 400 inputs and 340 outputs: 96 microphone inputs; 24 analogue inputs; 72 analogue outputs; 32 AES In- and Outputs; Aviom Interface for Personal Monitoring; three MADI Interfaces for Digital Audio Workstation.

Largely dedicated to opera, the main concert hall has seating capacity for 956, with another eight seats in the disabled area. The smaller auditorium, predominantly for drama and dance performances, can house 482 spectators, while a new 130-capacity studio theatre was built during the 2006 renovation.

The engineers of the National Theatre are particularly impressed with the Studer Vistonics™ operating concept, the networking over HiQnet and the ability to link and share the desks’ resources. From a practical point of view this allows very fast working within the console environment, they say.

Studer 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.”

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.

Harman Professional Debuts Next Generation HiQnet System Architect Version 2.0 At InfoComm 2009

In an introduction that radically simplifies professional audio networking, delivers greater design and integration capabilities to audio professionals and improves system performance and efficiency, Harman Professional today debuted HiQnet System Architect™ version 2.0. A highly intuitive, highly functional audio configuration and control interface for designing specialized audio networks for a wide array of applications, HiQnet System Architect 2.0 takes a newer approach to system design than the previous generation by providing users with intelligent choices based on job function, system application and system sophistication.

System Architect 2.0 features a new system design philosophy centered on workflow and the use of a diagrammatic representation of the installed or live sound venue. Devices are arranged by both their physical and logical placement allowing the designer to ‘educate’ System Architect about how they are to be used. In return the software is able to provide automation of many of the laborious system design tasks for free. For example, once the user has defined the layout of the venue and informed the software about which areas of it the amplifier outputs logically serve, System Architect provides embedded control panels which are automatically tied to the correct devices and provide source-selection, level, mute and metering, instantly accessible for each user-defined space, directly from the main Venue View. The factory-supplied panels can also be edited or completely replaced with fully-customized user control panels. The use of the user-defined spaces also provides feedback to the user by informing of any errors or warnings of the devices contained within by turning yellow or red, depending on the level of the condition. Combining this functionality with control panels for each space within the venue is the beginning of a long-term plan to merge the boundaries of system design with system control and monitoring.

According to Rick Kreifeldt, Harman Professional SDIG Vice President, System Architect Version 2.0 is a significantly more intelligent application than any professional audio industry application that has come before. “System Architect Version 2.0 is powerful because it seeks to combine the intelligence, experience and objectives of its users, and it’s been designed in close cooperation with the world’s leading practitioners in AV integration,” Kreifeldt explained. “The workflow oriented interface readdresses the interaction between designers and system design by framing his or her input not simply in terms of technology components but also on how the system is used. Couple this with a new informed approach that provides each participant with a tool suited to their needs and permissions, and you’ll quickly appreciate how System Architect makes the design process more efficient”

System Architect 2.0 also provides tour sound professionals and fixed installation system designers with considerable additional organizational benefits: adding the ability to create racks and arrays directly in the workspace, further enhancing the mechanisms of grouping devices. And by understanding more about the responsibilities of a certain device and its physical location within a rack, an array or a room, finding a specific device is made easy with new comprehensive list filtering techniques.

“System Architect Version 2 improves the system design experience for all users of the application, enabling significantly more efficient workflows,” Kreifeldt continued. “Designers can start with their end-goal — more often than not the loudspeaker configuration — and very quickly and intuitively work backwards because System Architect essentially connects the dots in an intelligent, logical way to evolve the speaker configuration into an AV system.”

In interviews with industry professionals, several complicated or time-consuming system design elements became common threads of conversation. The philosophy behind System Architect 2.0 is to speed up system design by tackling the organization of devices, the grouping of devices for control, system-wide routing of networked audio and creation of custom control panels. Importantly for the future, the underlying mechanisms by which these common issues have been addressed in version 2.0 also provide the foundations for several more considerable time-saving system design tasks to come.

At InfoComm this year, SDIG will also demonstrate Harman HiQnet™ products streaming Ethernet AVB in a technology preview. The company will showcase several new Ethernet AVB products including a dbx SC 32 Digital Matrix Processor, an Ethernet AVB architectural wall-plate from BSS Audio and a Crown CTs amplifier. The demonstration system will be connected together with an Ethernet AVB switch. The demonstration brings to fruition over three years of research and development as well as comprehensive participation and leadership in the IEEE AVB 802.1 Audio/Video Bridging (AVB) Task Group initiative.

A preview of System Architect will demonstrate how it will use the new venue design concepts to provide Ethernet AVB routing not just on a device-by-device level, but also to entire physical and logical spaces within a system, with one simple drag of the relevant signal.

Harman Professional Debuts Next Generation HiQnet System Architect™ Version 2.0 At InfoComm 2009

In an introduction that radically simplifies professional audio networking, delivers greater design and integration capabilities to audio professionals and improves system performance and efficiency, Harman Professional today debuted HiQnet System Architect™ version 2.0. A highly intuitive, highly functional audio configuration and control interface for designing specialized audio networks for a wide array of applications, HiQnet System Architect 2.0 takes a newer approach to system design than the previous generation by providing users with intelligent choices based on job function, system application and system sophistication.

System Architect 2.0 features a new system design philosophy centered on workflow and the use of a diagrammatic representation of the installed or live sound venue. Devices are arranged by both their physical and logical placement allowing the designer to ‘educate’ System Architect about how they are to be used. In return the software is able to provide automation of many of the laborious system design tasks for free. For example, once the user has defined the layout of the venue and informed the software about which areas of it the amplifier outputs logically serve, System Architect provides embedded control panels which are automatically tied to the correct devices and provide source-selection, level, mute and metering, instantly accessible for each user-defined space, directly from the main Venue View. The factory-supplied panels can also be edited or completely replaced with fully-customized user control panels. The use of the user-defined spaces also provides feedback to the user by informing of any errors or warnings of the devices contained within by turning yellow or red, depending on the level of the condition. Combining this functionality with control panels for each space within the venue is the beginning of a long-term plan to merge the boundaries of system design with system control and monitoring.

According to Rick Kreifeldt, Harman Professional SDIG Vice President, System Architect Version 2.0 is a significantly more intelligent application than any professional audio industry application that has come before. “System Architect Version 2.0 is powerful because it seeks to combine the intelligence, experience and objectives of its users, and it’s been designed in close cooperation with the world’s leading practitioners in AV integration,” Kreifeldt explained. “The workflow oriented interface readdresses the interaction between designers and system design by framing his or her input not simply in terms of technology components but also on how the system is used. Couple this with a new informed approach that provides each participant with a tool suited to their needs and permissions, and you’ll quickly appreciate how System Architect makes the design process more efficient”

System Architect 2.0 also provides tour sound professionals and fixed installation system designers with considerable additional organizational benefits: adding the ability to create racks and arrays directly in the workspace, further enhancing the mechanisms of grouping devices. And by understanding more about the responsibilities of a certain device and its physical location within a rack, an array or a room, finding a specific device is made easy with new comprehensive list filtering techniques.

“System Architect Version 2 improves the system design experience for all users of the application, enabling significantly more efficient workflows,” Kreifeldt continued. “Designers can start with their end-goal — more often than not the loudspeaker configuration — and very quickly and intuitively work backwards because System Architect essentially connects the dots in an intelligent, logical way to evolve the speaker configuration into an AV system.”

In interviews with industry professionals, several complicated or time-consuming system design elements became common threads of conversation. The philosophy behind System Architect 2.0 is to speed up system design by tackling the organization of devices, the grouping of devices for control, system-wide routing of networked audio and creation of custom control panels. Importantly for the future, the underlying mechanisms by which these common issues have been addressed in version 2.0 also provide the foundations for several more considerable time-saving system design tasks to come.

At InfoComm this year, SDIG will also demonstrate Harman HiQnet™ products streaming Ethernet AVB in a technology preview. The company will showcase several new Ethernet AVB products including a dbx SC 32 Digital Matrix Processor, an Ethernet AVB architectural wall-plate from BSS Audio and a Crown CTs amplifier. The demonstration system will be connected together with an Ethernet AVB switch. The demonstration brings to fruition over three years of research and development as well as comprehensive participation and leadership in the IEEE AVB 802.1 Audio/Video Bridging (AVB) Task Group initiative.

A preview of System Architect will demonstrate how it will use the new venue design concepts to provide Ethernet AVB routing not just on a device-by-device level, but also to entire physical and logical spaces within a system, with one simple drag of the relevant signal.

JBL VERTEC® DP Series Powered Line Arrays And Madema SpA Serve One Million Music Fans At Rome’s Primo Maggio Festival

Demonstrating the premium fidelity, high output power capabilities and versatility of JBL VERTEC® DP Series powered line array systems, Italian audio system provider Madema SpA deployed a large, multi-array VERTEC system for the Primo Maggio festival in Rome on May 1. The free annual public event commemorates the Italian Labor Day. Held in Rome’s Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano, the temporary stage for Primo Maggio is traditionally set up in front of the historic Basilica of St. John Lateran, the first church to be built in Rome, with first construction dating to 313 A.D

Once each year the historic religious site comes to life as hundreds of thousands of live music fans converge on the plaza. Many arrive early, camping in the square to claim the best seats. This year’s event drew a crowd estimated at more than one million spectators, largely due to the special appearance by legendary rock singer Vasco Rossi. In addition to Rossi and his band, performers for 2009 included Edoardo Bennato, Alessandro Mannarino, Robben Ford, Caparezza and Subsonica. Featuring 30 different bands in total, the event was broadcast live throughout Europe on RAI to another estimated four million persons.

As it has for the past several years, Madema exclusively handled all concert sound reinforcement duties for Primo Maggio. The company’s event sound system design featured a total of 127 VERTEC system enclosures. The main PA system was formatted as a left-right configuration of 18 enclosures per side, comprising VT4888DP-AN midsize powered line array elements with DrivePack® technology, with three additional VT4888DP-AN line array elements provided for front fill. The main arrays were each flanked by 12 VT4880 full-size arrayable subwoofers, flown in arced companion arrays. For additional low-frequency reinforcement, 24 VT4880A ultra-long excursion ground-based subwoofers were spaced along the front of the stage.

All non-powered subwoofers were driven with Crown Macro-Tech MA5000VZ power amplifiers, and a total of 700,000 watts of peak power was available for the overall system. The Madema team utilized Harman’s HiQnet™ System Architect™ software for configuration and control of the system. This user-interface platform gave complete access to onboard DSP and amplification channels across the entire system of nearly one hundred networked devices, whether traditionally-powered passive subwoofers or internally-powered full-range speaker arrays.

To reach additional listeners in the spacious, 40,000 square-meter (430,000 square ft) listening area and surrounding boulevards, Madema also set up four delay towers of 14, 12, eight and six VT4888DP-AN line array elements. With such a huge crowd onsite, an asymmetrical audience area, and placement constraints due to the plaza’s historical architectural features, the largest delay tower had a throw requirement of nearly 200 meters (660 feet), a challenge for any loudspeaker system. Madema’s equipment selection and system design approach met the challenge.

"I simply love JBL!" offered Davide Micheli, Madema's Event and Technical Manager for Primo Maggio, upon hearing the entire multi-array VERTEC DP system during pre-show testing. Micheli was assisted onsite by a group of the company’s key technicians, including System Engineer Carmelo Carlaccini and FOH Engineer Gianmario Lussana, who was responsible for assisting sound mixers for bands on

the show. Madema's Stefano Brugiotti managed wireless radio-frequency systems, Luca Molinari was in charge of the complex stage monitor system, and Moreno Zamperini of Audio Equipment handled user-interface and network management issues.

The audio team from Madema maintained a multi-day presence at the outdoor show site. Stage setup for the huge event began on April 26th, with scaffolding towers, FOH mix position and cable runs put in place on April 27th. The VERTEC system was flown and adjusted on April 28th. Two days of individual artist soundchecks followed, in preparation for the marathon concert on May 1 which lasted late into the evening.

"Massive, large-scale outdoor entertainment events like Primo Maggio challenge the skills of any rental sound company and crew," noted David Scheirman, Vice President, Tour Sound for JBL Professional. "With this event, Davide Micheli and his team of audio professionals have clearly shown why Madema has earned its reputation as one of the Mediterranean region's premier concert sound system providers."

For more information on Madema SpA, please visit www.madema.it