In a unique application that underscores the continued worldwide adoption of JBL Professional VERTEC® line arrays, Ten Years After Audio (TYAA), one of the leading audio rental firms in Thailand, provided the live sound system for the recent Assanee and Wasan Ram-Rai Concert at Rajamangala National Stadium in Bangkok. TYAA deployed VERTEC line arrays throughout the entire venue.
Brothers Assanee and Wasan Chotikul are popular, pioneering Thai rock artists. With a strong following of local fans and support by Thailand’s music industry for over 20 years, Assanee and Wasan are being heralded for having brought back the classic rock era of the ‘70s and 80s. Their latest production, the Assanee and Wasan Ram-Rai Concert, drew a sell-out attendance of more than 50,000 rock music fans. The event, organized by GMM Live in coordination with More Music, was hailed as the country’s biggest live music concert of the year in 2007.
The audio system included a total of 54 VERTEC VT4889 full-size line array elements, configured as 30 enclosures for left and right main arrays serving the open field, with four clusters of six VT4889 line array elements each for delay fill to the rear audience areas in the stadium’s seating rows. In addition, six VT4888 mid-size line array elements were employed as out fill for increased horizontal coverage. A total of 36 VT4880 full-size arrayable subwoofers were co-located with the main left and right arrays to provide extended low-frequency support for high-level music. All VERTEC loudspeakers were powered by a total of 70 Crown MA-5002VZ amplifiers.
Signal processing for all loudspeaker arrays was handled by six BSS Audio FDS-366T Loudspeaker Management Systems running JBL’s new V4 DSP presets, each working independently for their own zones. All incoming signal feeds for the BSS drive units came directly from the front-of-house mixer, for which Ten Years After Audio selected Soundcraft’s new flagship digital mixing console, the Vi6 Digital Live Sound Console. The event marked the first time a digital mixing console has been deployed for a major special event in the venue. All connectivity between the Stage Box of the Vi6 and the Local Rack in the FOH area was achieved via fiber-optic cable.
“Ten Years After Audio is a veteran concert sound firm, and with this show they have readily demonstrated how a properly-configured, multi-array sound reinforcement system operated by a talented audio crew can achieve excellent results for a large-scale live production,” noted David Scheirman, Vice President, Tour Sound for JBL Professional. “Stadium rock shows can be very demanding on both crew and equipment. The widespread acclaim for Assanee and Wasan’s Ram-Rai Concert is a testament to TYAA’s regional expertise.”
Technical assistance for the event was provided by Harman Pro’s exclusive distributor for Thailand, Mahajak Development Co., Ltd.
Ten Years After Audio can be reached at tenyearsafter@gmail.com.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Ten Years After Audio Serves Major Thai Rock Concert With JBL VerTec Line Arrays
Thursday, March 20, 2008
AKG Launches New Perception Series Professional Condenser Microphone
FRANKFURT, Germany – March 12, 2008 – AKG today announced the introduction of the new Perception Series of professional condenser microphones at the 2008 Musikmesse in Frankfurt, Germany. Designed for a wide range of applications used by ambitious hobby musicians as well as professional studios, the four new models included in the product launch provide superb audio quality and performance at a competitive price.
The new AKG Perception Series includes the P 120, P 170, P 220 and P 420 – each offering a 20 dB attenuation pad and a low cut filter for an even wider range of miking capabilities including vocals, brass instruments, electric guitar amps and drums across multiple market applications of studio recording, live sound and broadcast. Designed and engineered in Vienna, Austria, the entire Perception line offers AKG’s signature sound quality captured in a rugged precision-tooled zinc/aluminum alloy body with a dent-resistant stainless steel grille screen.
Perception P 120 is a general-purpose recording mic with a wide, extended frequency response. The 2/3-inch diaphragm condenser microphone offers users outstanding quality, performance and value, making it an ideal studio microphone for home recording and project studio use.
Perception P 170 is a 1/2-inch diaphragm condenser microphone with a cardioid polar pattern. Designed for acoustic instruments, drums and percussion, the small diaphragm true condenser microphone delivers high quality AKG sound in both live and studio applications.
Perception P 220 is a true one-inch diaphragm condenser microphone for studio recording and live sound applications on vocals, percussion, guitar, bass amps and acoustic instruments. The P 220 includes a switchable bass roll-off and a pre-attenuation pad, making it an ideal microphone for sources with high sound pressure levels up to 155 dB.
Perception P 420 is a multi-pattern large-diaphragm condenser microphone for professional studio recording of grand piano, woodwind and brass instruments as well as drums and percussion. Offering high sensitivity and 155 dB maximum SPL, the P 420 delivers a warm transparent sound quality in a selection of cardioid, omni-directional or figure-eight pickup patterns.
“AKG’s Perception microphones have built a strong following among musicians and engineers,” explained Thomas Stubics, Product Manager, AKG Acoustics. “Building on this prestigious reputation, we are proud to introduce the new line of Perception microphones with new features and outstanding value for the money.”
New Powered VRX Portable Line Arrays From JBL Raise Standard Of Performance For Mobile DJ's And Musicians
FRANKFURT, GERMANY, 12 March 2008 — Addressing the MI market’s growing demands for loudspeaker technology that is on par with the world’s most sophisticated staging systems, JBL Professional is showcasing its new VRX932LAP 12-inch powered loudspeaker and the VRX918SP 18-inch powered subwoofer. The new powered VRX models incorporate the same innovative engineering found in JBL’s groundbreaking VERTEC® line arrays and offer built-in amplification from Crown, providing mobile DJ’s and musicians with accessibility to world-class, professional-grade technology.
Utilizing the JBL DrivePack® DPC-2 amplification system designed in cooperation with Crown, both models are fully self-contained, powered loudspeakers. Retaining all the features of the original VRX932LA and VRX918S, self-powered performance has been optimized through integrated DSP, creating the simplest professional powered line array system in the industry.
“The professional audio world has acknowledged the versatility, performance and sonic quality of the VRX900 compact, high-performance line array systems,” said Simon Jones, Director of Marketing, Portable PA, JBL Professional. “With the introduction of the VRX932LAP and VRX918SP, the speed and simplicity of setup has now dramatically increased.”
Designed for use in arrays of up to five units, the VRX932LAP is the ideal choice when line array performance is needed but the venue size does not call for the long-throw characteristics of large line array systems. The VRX932LAP is a 12-inch, two-way powered line array loudspeaker featuring a DPC-2 amplifier module that provides 1750 Watts of peak power. A DSP-based resident input module provides system optimization and equalization.
The VRX932LAP features JBL Professional’s latest 2408J Annular Ring Diaphragm HF driver technology. The Constant Curvature Waveguide mounts three compression drivers on a continuous arc. When additional VRX932LAP loudspeakers are added to the array, the uninterrupted arc continues. In effect, all the drivers work together as if they were a single driver on a very long waveguide. Since there are three drivers in each VRX932LAP loudspeaker, the combined power handling and acoustic output of the system is far greater than a single driver could achieve.
The VRX932LAP uses “amplitude shading” to shape the coverage of the array. For example, switches on the input plate control the output of each high-frequency section in the array. This allows users to set the upper enclosures in an array configuration to deliver more output to reach a distant balcony, while the lower box is shaded back to reduce excessive levels at the front of the listening area. This creates a more coherent sound field.
One or two VRX932LAP loudspeakers may also be used on a tripod or over JBL VRX918SP, VRX918S or SRX718S subwoofers. The integrated rigging hardware is used to securely lock the array together while the dual-angle pole socket provides aiming flexibility. Suspended applications require the JBL VRX-AF array frame or eye bolts.
Designed specifically for use in arrays with the VRX932LAP, the VRX918SP is a powered subwoofer system containing a 2268FF neodymium magnet patented Differential Drive®, 18-inch woofer in a front-loaded, vented enclosure. The VRX918SP features a built-in JBL DrivePack DPC-2 amplifier module designed in cooperation with Crown that provides 1500 Watts of peak power. A DSP-based resident input module provides system optimization, EQ and crossover functionality.
The VRX918SP is equally at home in ground-stacked applications and is equipped with a top-mounted, threaded, 20-millimeter socket that can receive the optional SS4-BK pole. The VRX918SP’s enclosure is constructed of top quality birch plywood, coated in JBL’s rugged DuraFlex™ finish and is heavily braced to maximize low-frequency performance. The attractive CNC-machined, 16-gauge steel grille is internally lined with acoustically transparent foam to provide additional driver protection. The rear of the enclosure is fitted with T-nuts with may be used to attach the optional WK-4S caster kit.
“Since its introduction, the VRX Series has revolutionized the industry’s view of line arrays by incorporating JBL Professional’s legendary VERTEC line array technology into more compact enclosures, bringing line array performance to a greater variety of markets,” Jones added. “VRX loudspeakers have been widely adopted not only in portable applications, but fixed installation environments such as houses of worship. The addition of built-in amplification and onboard DSP will bring added benefits for all users of VRX Series loudspeakers, in all applications.”
For complete product and company information, go to the JBL Professional website at www.jblpro.com.
JBL Professional Debuts New VerTec DP Deries Powered Full Size Models With JBL DrivePack Technology
Harman Professional’s HiQnet™ system for remote control and monitoring.
FRANKFURT, GERMANY, 12 March 2008 — Rounding out its VERTEC® Series line array family of powered and passive loudspeaker models for the professional tour/rental and performance-venue markets, JBL Professional today introduced, at Musikmesse 2008, the JBL VERTEC VT4889ADP Full Range High Directivity Line Array Element and the companion VT4880ADP Ultra Long Excursion Arrayable Subwoofer. Both models are integrated audio systems featuring field-proven JBL DrivePack® technology. Co-developed with Harman Pro Group sister companies Crown International and dbx Professional, the high-performance JBL DrivePack electronics modules with integral digital signal processing couple seamlessly with VERTEC loudspeakers. These latest powered full-size models in the JBL VERTEC DP Series deliver superb audio quality with robust reserve power, with digital electronics perfectly matched to the enclosures.
The available JBL DrivePack DP-3 module features Crown’s exclusive BCA (Balanced Current Amplification) technology, incorporating Class I circuitry with temperature-compensated modulation. State-of-the-art feedback circuits enable the JBL DrivePack to set a new standard for performance in digital amplification, with lower noise and distortion specifications than other high-power switching amplifiers on the market. The units include an auto-sensing Universal Power Supply and a fan-free, passive, cooling design. The three-channel DP-3 offers a full rated output power of 6,000 watts peak, 3,000 watts continuous (at load) for the VT4889ADP, and 6,900W peak, 3,500W continuous for the VT4880ADP subwoofer.
The standard input module from dbx features analog audio inputs, dbx’s Type IV™ analog-to-digital conversion circuitry, and sophisticated onboard digital signal processing technology. Precision bandpass limiting, pre-equalization filters and automatic self-test functions ensure optimized performance. The modular input bay design allows for insertion of optional networked modules.
Powered Full-Size High Directivity Line Array Element
The VT4889ADP 3-way full-size line array element is a powerful, lightweight option for applications requiring powered loudspeaker systems. It is fitted with two 380 mm (15 in) low frequency transducers, four 203 mm (8 in) midrange components and three 76 mm (1.5 in) neodymium compression drivers with beryllium diaphragms. It weighs only 93.1 kg (205 lb), enabling the assembly of large powered arrays of multiple units, yet each unit is capable of delivering 143 dB SPL maximum output (1 m).
The VT4889ADP and its companion subwoofer, the VT4880ADP, are pre-configured from the JBL factory with JBL’s new V4 DSP preset data, developed with the aid of JBL’s exclusive LDM™ (Loudspeaker Data Manager) software, and offering optimized acoustical performance.
Powered Full-Size Ultra Long Excursion Arrayable Subwoofer
The VT4880ADP 2 x 18-inch arrayable subwoofer is a high output, lightweight companion subwoofer to complement VT4889ADP full-range loudspeaker systems. It is fitted with two new 457 mm (18 in) model 2269G ultra long-excursion low frequency transducers, each of which is rated at 2000W continuous, 8000W peak. The subwoofer is capable of delivering 137 dB SPL (1 m). This powered subwoofer weighs only 99.9 kg (220 lb), enabling the construction of extremely powerful VLF (Very Low Frequency) arrays of multiple units. The unit is designed to be suspended in stand-alone arrays, coupled with VT4889ADP’s in the same array, or ground-stacked as required.
Optional Network Modules: HiQnet™ Compatible
The optional networked DPCN (Cobranet™-compatible) input modules from Crown allow JBL VERTEC DP Series systems to link seamlessly into Harman Professional’s HiQnet™ system. With optional network modules installed, users have remote control and monitoring access to system functionality and digital speaker presets, via System Architect software. HiQnet compliance ensures that VERTEC DP Series system products offer a variety of configuration and monitoring functions, through software control panels that address not only JBL DrivePack-equipped loudspeakers, but also other HiQnet-compliant audio products from Harman Professional companies that may be integrated into a sound system.
JBL VERTEC Product Line Compatibility: User Advantages
Most passive system enclosures in the VERTEC Series, including the VT4889-1 and VT4880A upon which the new powered DP Series versions are based, are pre-engineered to be JBL DrivePack-compatible. This allows existing VERTEC system owners, as well as new customers, to leverage the distinct performance and business advantages the JBL VERTEC DrivePack technology platform can provide, with JBL DrivePack retrofit kits. These advantages include reduced system configuration costs, less concern over cooling needs in low-noise environments like performing arts centers due to the JBL DrivePack’s fan-free design, and transportation and installation savings due to lower space requirements when compared to traditional amplifier racks.
“JBL’s latest powered models effectively equip the VERTEC DP Series with options in all size categories for line array elements--compact, midsize and now full-size. This provides a comprehensive set of solutions for high-end, powered loudspeaker applications,” said David Scheirman, Vice President of Tour Sound, JBL Professional. “Now, in addition to the premium-quality sound available with passive models in the VERTEC Series of line array systems, we’re providing a suite of powered models with all of the improved consistency that such system products can offer to our customers in the tour sound and fixed-installation performing arts markets. These new powered full-size VT4889ADP full-range line array and VT4880ADP arrayable subwoofer systems bring all of the integrated-system advantages of our smaller and more compact powered models to the broad range of high-end system users in the concert touring and corporate/AV market segments who require high-performance, large-scale sound reinforcement solutions.”
Hit Theatrical Production "Love, Janis" Premieres JBL New Powered Full Size VerTec System
FRANKFURT, GERMANY, 12 March 2008 — Marking the first commercial use of JBL Professional’s new powered full-size VERTEC® VT4889ADP full-range line array element and VT4880ADP companion subwoofer with JBL DrivePack® technology, San Diego-based Meeting Services Inc. is providing audio, lighting and projection needs for the national tour of “Love, Janis.” The musical theater production is based upon the life and music of 60's rock-and-roll icon Janis Joplin. Inspired by the best-selling book, "Love, Janis" by Laura Joplin, the singer's younger sister, the show’s entire spoken text comes directly from Janis Joplin herself--from actual letters to her family and from her many press, radio and TV interviews. The show is presented by Columbia Artists Theatricals (CAT), which specializes in the distribution and production of commercial and theatrically staged live entertainment on a worldwide basis. The production features general management by Paul Rambacher, set design by Norman Schwab, tour light and projection design by Jeffrey Cady using original 1960s psychedelic lightshow images from San Francisco's legendary Bill Ham, and sound design by Eric Stahlhammer.
“Love, Janis” is playing in a wide range of venues nationwide. The current tour leg is scheduled into midsize proscenium-stage theaters, such as the 1,167-seat Parker Playhouse in Ft. Lauderdale, FL where the show was staged February 29-March 2. This classic stage house features musical performances, dramatic activities and educational programming throughout the year. Sound designer Eric Stahlhammer relied on JBL's new powered full-size system “on the boards” to give the classic-rock, period-authentic show a full-range, dynamic
sound as the production moved through classic Janis Joplin songs like "Piece of My Heart," "Down On Me," "Ball and Chain," "Mercedes Benz" and "Me and Bobby McGee."
"The brand-new VT4889ADP system is powerful and full-bodied, with its 15-inch low-frequency woofers. It has all the acoustical hallmarks of the standard VT4889 with the addition of integrated power and digital signal processing,” commented Stahlhammer, a veteran theatrical sound designer who has designed sound for tours of "Csardas" and "Gypsy Spirit" and counts numerous music-based productions like "Always...Patsy Cline," "Almost Heaven: Songs and Stories of John Denver" and "Hank Williams: Lost Highway" among his credits. "Having a powered speaker system for this production saves us both setup time and backstage space. Now that Meeting Services has supplied this new audio package for the tour, I can't imagine using any other system to do this show."
The JBL VERTEC VT4889ADP full-range, high directivity line array element and companion VT4880ADP Ultra-Long Excursion arrayable subwoofer are integrated audio systems featuring field-proven JBL DrivePack technology. The VT4889ADP weighs only 93.1 kg (205 lb) and each unit is capable of delivering 143 dB SPL maximum output (1 m). The VT4880ADP subwoofer is capable of delivering 137 dB SPL (1 m) and weighs only 99.9 kg (220 lb), enabling the construction of large, extremely powerful arrays of multiple units. The subwoofer is designed to be suspended in stand-alone arrays, coupled with VT4889ADP's in the same array, or ground-stacked as required.
The high-performance JBL DrivePack electronics modules include an auto-sensing Universal Power Supply and a fan-free, passive, cooling design. The standard input module features analog audio inputs, dbx's Type IV™ analog-to-digital conversion circuitry, and sophisticated onboard digital signal processing technology. Precision bandpass limiting, pre-equalization filters and automatic self-test functions ensure optimized performance. The modular input bay design allows for insertion of optional networked modules, which offer users a choice of digital audio and remote control and monitoring access via HiQnet™ System Architect software. The VT4889ADP and its companion subwoofer, the VT4880ADP, are pre-configured from the JBL factory with JBL's new V4 DSP preset data, developed with the aid of JBL's exclusive LDM™ (Loudspeaker Data Manager) software, and offering optimized acoustical performance.
For front fill applications, Stahlhammer's sound design for "Love, Janis" includes JBL's compact VRX928LA two-way loudspeakers, arrayed on the stage lip to cover forward seating rows in the theatrical playhouses on the national tour. "I can see numerous applications for JBL speakers in touring theatrical-style productions," observed Stahlhammer. "My design criteria has always been to give audiences the best sound possible in coordination with a given script and stage set. This system package is giving us excellent results from both a sonic and practical point of view, and the show has been getting excellent reviews. The audience is on their feet and singing along, every night."
“Love, Janis” will be appearing for multiple nights at theater venues in New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachussets, Ohio, Texas and California through June including Philadelphia’s Zellerbach Theater, Boston’s Majestic Theater, Los Angeles’ Wilshire Theater, and Modesto’s Gallo Center for the Arts.
"Touring musical theater productions like 'Love, Janis' can be very challenging for production crews, as setup restrictions, limited backstage space and cross-country travel put time at a premium for stagehands and traveling crews alike," noted David Scheirman, Vice President of Tour Sound, JBL Professional. “These new powered full-size models provide a comprehensive set of solutions for high-end, powered loudspeaker applications. We're encouraged to see how this new system is assisting professional users in not only the traditional concert rental and corporate A/V production segments, but also those who serve theatrical and performing-arts environments."
Program and schedule details for Columbia Artists Theatricals' presentation of "Love, Janis" can be found at http://www.lovejanisthemusical.com/
Meeting Services, Inc. can be reached at (858) 348-0100 and at http://www.msiprod.com/
For complete product and company information, go to the JBL Professional website at www.jblpro.com.
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