Hitachi Introduces CP-X3011 3LCD Projector

Hitachi America, Ltd., Digital Media Division, Business Solutions is introducing the CP-X3011 3LCD projector, which offers a brightness of 3,200 lumens and a 2000:1 contrast ratio. The CP-X3011 features 16 Watts of built-in audio while maintaining a low noise rating of 29 dBA in Eco Mode. In addition, the CP-X3011 features a long lamp life of 3,000 hours in Standard Mode and 6,000 hours in Eco Mode.

The CP-X3011 features Hitachi’s proprietary My Buttons functionality, enabling two programmable buttons on the projector to execute any command. The CP-X3011 also offers Input Source Naming allowing users to rename input sources to fit their needs. Closed Captioning functionality is also available with the CP-X3011.

The CP-X3011 includes a hybrid filter that only requires maintenance once every 5,000 hours, providing users with a lower total cost of ownership. With the CP-X3011’s Audio Pass Through function, the projector can output audio in stand-by mode, allowing audiences to listen to external speakers via the projector’s audio output. Moreover, the projector’s Power Saving Mode reduces the stand-by power consumption to 0.5W.

The CP-X3011 contains several features that are exclusive to Hitachi. One of these is the Template Function which allows users to select one of four free-line templates that are very useful when writing on a whiteboard. Second, the Whiteboard Mode limits the peak white by changing the gamma curve. When the projector is used with a whiteboard, this feature limits brightness to protect the eye health of teachers and students. Third, the IR Remote Frequency Change Function enables the frequency of the IR remote control to be changed from the menu to avoid conflicts with fluorescent lights or IR signals from a notebook PC.

Lexicon® Releases New Windows® 7 Drivers for All USB Desktop Recording Interfaces

Lexicon®, a Harman International Company (NYSE-HAR), has released new Windows 7 software drivers for Alpha, Lambda, Omega and the I∙ONIX U22, U42S, and U82S series of Desktop Recording Interfaces. Now all of the Lexicon USB Desktop Recording Interfaces operate seamlessly on any computers running 32-bit or 64-bit Windows 7, Vista, or XP. Also, these interfaces operate on all Mac computers operating on OS X 10.4.9 or higher regardless of whether they are based on PowerPC or Intel processors.

Speaking about the newly updated drivers for the Desktop Recording Interfaces, Business Segment Director for Lexicon Paul Faby stated, “We’re excited to be continuing our effort to offer the latest software updates to support these products. This is a fantastic lineup which offers unbelievable sonic capabilities at very attractive prices.”

Designed to sit in the perfect location when using your DAW, between the keyboard and monitor, the I·ONIX Series is crafted from the highest quality components to ensure superior recordings. Each I·ONIX recording interface features newly designed dbx® 60V high-voltage, ultra-low noise microphone preamps on all analog inputs which are coupled with high-definition converters to ensure pristine 24-bit/96kHz audio to capture every subtle detail of the performance.

The Alpha, Lambda, and Omega Desktop Recording Studios are the perfect choice for anyone putting together their first home recording studio. Each of these completely integrated recording systems has all the tools needed to transform your computer into a professional 24-bit digital recording studio.

The newly updated drivers can be downloaded free from www.Lexiconpro.com.

Vienna State Opera’s Sound Designer Selects A Complete AKG Package To Provide Sophisticated Audio Transmissions For The Vienna Opernball

Showcasing the superior audio quality and sophistication of AKG microphones and wireless microphone systems, sound designer Professor Wolfgang Fritz recently outfitted the Vienna Opera House with a complete AKG package in preparation for Vienna’s Opernball. The package - which included the WMS4500 high-end wireless system, 19 bodypacks and various microphones - was used to support all live sound needs during the opulent promenade, and also drove the live recordings of the Opera Ball Orchestra to ensure clear, memorable reproductions. 

Vienna’s Opera Ball is widely considered to be one of Europe’s largest and most elegant social functions, and frequently attracts some of the world’s most accomplished musicians, politicians and celebrities. For the event, Fritz selected a 20-channel WMS4500 high end wireless system with 19 bodypacks and one handheld microphone, an HC577 headworn microphone with a unique CK77 capsule for the actors, two PT4500 with a CK77 microphone for a moveable piano, and one C414 and C391 microphone each used for the orchestra.

“After comparing the system’s requirements to our options for microphones, it was clear that AKG would be the perfect fit,” stated Fritz, sound designer for the Vienna State Opera, Bregenzer Festival, Mörbischer Festival and other classical events. “I use AKG equipment in every event where clarity, versatility, and precision are essential. They provide a level of price performance that is simply unrivaled by other brands.”

This year’s ball was held in the auditorium of the Vienna State Opera House. In preparation for the event, the auditorium was turned into a large ballroom overnight by removing the seats and installing a new floor that lined up flush with the stage. Fritz and his team then measured the audio acoustics while deciding the best equipment to use, ultimately selecting the AKG package for its ability to deliver clear, powerful sound at an affordable price.

Visual Worshiper Utilizes Hitachi CP-A52 Short Throw Projectors To Bring Life To Sermons And Performances In Houses Of Worship

Consulting and live design company Visual Worshiper, with the help of Hitachi CP-A52 short-throw projectors, designs and implements interactive religious sets to enhance and increase participation of church-related events throughout the nation and around the world, in an effort to create a more dynamic environment for church congregants.

With the cost of a live production or an effects-heavy sermon too high for many religious venues, Hitachi projectors, multiple screens and a mix of pictures and pre-designed animations brings a unique flare to these presentations while keeping the cost at a minimum. 

Camron Ware, visual production designer and worship leader for Visual Worshiper, has been designing these sets since 2007.  “We weren’t able to afford the equipment that we needed to put on our productions, so we looked elsewhere for an innovative solution,” Mr. Ware said.  “Our initial designs were great, but it was difficult to figure out a cost effective and simple way to project the animations on the screens without casting shadows or using bulky equipment in the crowd.” 

The decision to use Hitachi short-throw projectors came very easily to Mr. Ware.  Simply put, “There was nothing else in the market that has all the features we needed for our productions. The projectors travel well, they are compact, they display top-quality images and the price is right.” 
The CP-A52 projectors easily allow the pictures and animations, ranging from static images to intricate lighting animations, to be projected from the floor of the stage, in front or right behind the screens, while taking up minimum space - approximately one foot between the projector and screen.

“The special effects are working very well,” according to Mr. Ware. “In fact, Visual Worshiper has traveled around the world on its mission to increase active participation in the church.  Visual Worshiper has traveled to Russia, Thailand, China and across the United States to help design these attention-grabbing performances.” 

“These visual presentations really make our events stand out, because it is something fresh and engaging for our visual culture,” Mr. Ware continued.

For more information about Visual Worshiper, visit their Web site at www.visualworshiper.com or their blog at www.visualworshiper.com/blog.

Ministry of Sound chooses Soundcraft Si2 Digital Console

Ministry of Sound London’s Technical Manager Alex Barrand moved a step nearer his sonic nirvana with the commissioning of a Soundcraft Si2 digital sound desk for the famous main dance room, The Box. At the PLASA Show last September he was introduced to the Soundcraft Si1 by Harman UK/ROI distributor Sound Technology’s Dave Bradshaw (also former head of technology at the Ministry).

“There are so many digital desks on the market — but I realised that this was the easiest analogue-to-digital conversion desk money can buy,” commented Alex.

As it transpired, Ministry opted for the larger Si2 model. Whereas the standard Si1 has 32 mic inputs mapped on 16 faders, with four dedicated stereo line channels and four dedicated FX Returns from the Lexicon FX processors, the Si2 has 48 mic inputs mapped on 24 faders.

“My other house technicians are delighted with the upgrade,” confirms Alex, who has long been familiar with the Soundcraft topography and excellent signature sound. “ I have used a Vi before and as well as one of the old SM24’s, and have always felt comfortable. But I had never been on this.”

The console was pressed into service straight out of the box. “After patching the desk on the virtual version then uploading the show data it was extremely easy,” he said. “The sound was the best we have ever had, from the moment we turned it on.”

The Si2 is used as master mixer for the main room setups, taking feeds from all the booth DJ mixers — as well as bands. Alex Barrand says the extra fader group provided by the Si2 was a real bonus, adding that he no longer has any need for an outboard rack … although it is simple to make third party inserts, such as a valve compressor.

“With four Lexicon processors and each channel with its own gate, comps and EQ using dbx and BSS heritage components I have everything I need inline. It’s got a lot more weight behind it. Plus every input and output has its own dedicated input (output) socket on the back of the console.”

The Si2 also allows him to download a virtual console on his laptop and save show mixes to a USB from home.

Finally, the 24 Group/Aux busses, available at all times, have made Alex Barrand’s life (and those of his technicians) a breeze. “On our old analogue desks it was a nightmare to do switchovers — you had to put together your outboard racks every night. But using the bus sends on the Si2 anything can be done very quickly.

“Even the strictly analogue guys are over the moon.”

Further information from UK/ROI distributor Sound Technnology Ltd on 01462 480000, info@soundtech.co.uk, www.soundtech.co.uk/soundcraft

Sunrise Pictures Mixes For The Stars With JBL LSR4300 Series Studio Monitors

Demonstrating the quality and dependability of JBL LSR4300 Series studio monitors, New England-based Sunrise Pictures has established itself as one of the leading film production companies in the region with JBL’s LSR monitors playing an anchor role in the company’s audio system.

Based in Middletown, Connecticut, Sunrise Pictures boasts a portfolio of film projects, including independent feature films, television commercials and short films. Taylor Warren, owner of Sunrise Pictures, has grown the company on the strength of his connection with the filmmaking community in the region. “I have cultivated relationships with filmmakers in the area and their challenges, as is the case with any filmmaker, are always related to budget. Many filmmakers don’t have the money to take their project to a high profile mixing suite in New York.”

Using JBL LSR4326P studio monitors, Sunrise Pictures offers high-quality audio mixes in a sophisticated yet comfortable environment, allowing Warren’s clients to bypass the challenge of the commute and the cost of mix tim  in New York City. Warren discovered the LSR monitors while working on the feature film, Being Michael Madsen. “The film was shot documentary style, which meant there would be unavoidable sound compromises on the set,” Warren said. “Because of this, I wanted to upgrade my studio monitors and the JBL monitors seemed to have greater flexibility than any other speakers I heard. They also gave me a very balanced sound field at the mix position.”

The LSR4300 studio monitors are equipped with JBL’s proprietary RMC™ (Room Mode Correction) technology, which compensates for standing waves, or “room modes” in less-than-ideal acoustic spaces. This technology has paid dividends for Warren, who predominantly works out of a very small studio. “There might be speakers that sound as good for $5,000, but for my application there is not a better speaker, especially because my current room is small and not symmetrically shaped,” he said. “Having mixed Being Michael Madsen with these speakers, I had an epiphany when attending the film’s world premiere in London. For the first time, what I heard in the theater was exactly what I heard when I mixed the film.”

Since the success of Being Michael Madsen, Sunrise Pictures has continued to grow its business with its enhanced audio capabilities. “We have used the JBL monitors for every project since we purchased them and they have been nothing short of spectacular,” Warren said.

For more information on Sunrise Pictures, please visit www.sunrisepictures.com.

AKG’s Architectural Microphone Series (AMS) Online Configuration Tool Enables Quick And Easy Customization From Home

In an introduction that couples the versatility of its customizable Architectural Microphone Series with an unparalleled level of convenience, AKG is making its AMS Online Configuration Tool live at the beginning of May 2010. The new tool effectively streamlines the customization process for users seeking to personalize their AMS microphones, and will allow for online selection of over 6,840 customizable settings with an easy to use, interactive website.

The website allows for users to customize their microphones based on seven different variables: capsule design, polar pattern, gooseneck length, connector style, printing, color, and accessories. With the click of a button, users will be able to select from five different capsule designs, including a signal, tech, turrent, flow or cross design. There is an option for hypercariod, cardiod, and omnidirectional polar patterns, and an option for connection preference, based on the most common use of the microphone.

“The new AMS Online Configuration Tool allows users to design their own microphones from the comfort of their home with ease,” commented Mario Siokola, Product Manager for the AMS Online Configuration Tool. “Not only can they choose from a wide range of performance options, but they can also customize the microphone’s appearance to ensure that each microphone fits their needs, no matter what the setting is.” 

In addition to the functional settings, there are also a number of pages on the website where users can adjust the aesthetic qualities of the microphone. There is an option to adjust the neck length from 15 cm to 30 cm to 50 cm, change the color or finish, and even decide what’s printed as a logo. Finally, after the functions and appearance of the microphones are set, users can choose to add a number of different accessories, including: different types of mounting clips, a stand adapter, a screw set, and a windscreen for greater capsule protection.

“Our AMS line of microphones gives users the ability to personalize their very own microphone, without sacrificing performance or functionality,” continued Siokola. “And now, with the Online Configuration Tool, we have simplified this process and effectively allowed everyone to be microphone engineers and designers themselves.”

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.