Volume 14, Issue 16 — August 17, 2016
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Editorial Editorial Editorial Editorial
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Industry News Audio Projection Control & Signal Processing Cables, Cases, Furniture, Mounts, Racks, Screens & Accessories Digital Signage
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The Cost of Late Adoption
By Mark Coxon rAVe Blogger
If you are a student of technology adoption, you’ve most likely seen this curve.
It’s the Technology Adoption curve and it reveals how people adopt technology over time. Looking at the curve as an integrator, you may use this curve to justify a delayed entry into a tech market. After all, around 70 percent of consumers don’t come into the market until the middle. If you take that viewpoint, you’re not alone. In fact, according to data I heard come out of the InfoComm standards plenary, integrators seem to adopt new technology into their businesses in almost exactly the same way consumers do, with the majority waiting for the swell in the middle. I think that this is a major mistake.
Before you start to disagree too much, let me lay out why I think there is a unique advantage for integration companies to be innovators and early adopters when it comes to offering new products and services in their businesses.
First off, it’s a marketing and sales advantage. 70 percent to 85 percent of the integration community is probably not telling this new technology story to their clients yet. That’s a great advantage when pitching a job, especially if the client is tech conscious or savvy themselves. However, I think there is a unique advantage in the actual numbers as well.
Let’s look at another common curve. The Product Life Cycle curve.
This curve, when over laid on the Technology Adoption curve above, shows that most integrators are waiting until growth has been demonstrated or sometimes even until the product has reached full maturity. This may not sound like a bad thing. In fact, the terms growth and maturity seem to denote stability.
But stability and profitability are two different things.
Now given all of the above let’s look at a couple curves I came up with in thinking through this adoption trend.
The first is the product margin curve.
When a product is first introduced and is novel or innovative, higher prices will be paid by consumers. Given this, typically products have higher margins as they are introduced and as the product reaches maturity and then market saturation, those margins fall and then level off at some small differential above the manufacturing costs.
But selling the product is only half of your integration business. Unless you are a box mover, you are selling installation, programming and support services with these products as well — so you also have a Labor Margin curve to factor in here as well.
Notice anything? It’s almost the opposite of the Product Margin curve. In the beginning, when a technology is new, your integration firm will inevitably spend more time training and installing the product, troubleshooting errors, etc. However, as the product reaches maturity, labor margins increase with the efficiency of the installations, programming and support of the product.
Given this, you really need to look at the sum of both graphs to get a good picture of the Profit curve of a integrating a new technology. If the product costs and integration costs are about equal, then you get something like this.
As you can see the green line is the sum of the two margin curves for Product (orange) and Labor (blue). Of course depending on the price of the product(s) in the system, these curves could move slightly. The point is however that in the example above, the integrator in question adopts the technology early. This means that the product margins offset additional labor expenditure during the learning phase, and then as product margins decrease, the integrators experience with the product provides advantages in actual integration costs to increase labor margins. Overall, the two competing curves can level each other out, creating a stable profit line over time for the technology itself.
But what happens to the integrator who waits?
A delayed entry into the market in growth or maturity mode means that the integrator will not take advantage of early, higher product margins. However, the labor margin curve remains. As an integrator, it still takes your team some time to become familiar with the technology and gain those economies. The result is a product margin curve that remains the same and a labor margin curve that is delayed.
As you can see the delayed entry affects the stability of the green profit line. If you look at the curve profit curve above, you’ll notice that profit actually decreases initially, and that many times causes an integrator to rethink their entry into the new market and perhaps retreat, not knowing that the trend is a direct result of the late entry, and will at some point climb back up as efficiencies in installation and programming are realized.
If you want to compare the profit curves of integrator 1 and integrator 2, it looks something like this.
If you take a look at the two profit curves above, an early entry into the market not only allows Integrator 1 (dark green) the opportunity to turn profit for more time than Integrator 2 (light green), but also gives them an advantage in profit during a huge portion of the Technology Adoption cycle as a whole. They have earned higher profits that allow them to be more competitive in a bid situation as well as present a longer track record of success with the technology.
All in all, the early adopter from an integration perspective can benefit greatly from adopting technology early, capturing a large percentage of early adopters and also creating advantages downstream as the technology matures that allows the same firm to continue an advantage until the product fades toward decline.
From a product manufacturing perspective, many argue that being second may be better than being first in that the follower can learn from the leaders mistakes. That may also be true here with integration if the delay to market is relatively small. However, even in manufacturing, no one argues that there is an advantage to entering the market in the middle or at the end. It may be a good time to look at the way your integration firm is adopting new technology to see if you’re benefiting from an early mover advantage.
I’d love to hear your take here. Feel free to use the comments below to start the conversation. Leave a Comment
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Lean Model to Determine Designs
By Scott Tiner rAVe Columnist
We have all heard, “Well that is how it was designed.” Or, “the integrators made this more complicated than it needed to be.” I, as much as anyone like to pass the buck, but when dealing with customers we need to make sure we provide the end result they want. A lean model of looking at design can help integrators provide the desired result the first time around, improving their relationships, reputation and future revenue stream.
The first step is to look at the Current (as designed) State. This is the state of how something operates right now. So, if you were looking into installing digital signs in a location that previously had corkboards, you would want to know several things about the current state.
- Are there rules about what gets posted on the bulletin board?
- How often is the bulletin board cleared off?
- Who “owns” the bulletin board?
The next step, and maybe the most critical, is to determine the Current (as-is) State. This is the way that things actually work. So, that list of rules you were given about what gets posted on the current bulletin board, does anyone actually know them, or follow them? If they tell you the bulletin board is cleared off on a weekly basis, does that actually happen?
Why are these types of questions important? Because if you design a system according to the as designed state, but that is not the actual as-is state, you are going to have unhappy customers. In the bulletin board example, if there are a bunch of rules, you will build the ability to follow these rules into a new digital signage system. This may cost development time, or a higher cost for the software. However, what if the customer never actually follows any of those rules? You have provided them what they asked for, but not for what they wanted. You have given them a product that costs more than what they need, and possibly added complexity to the system. Additionally, the person who suddenly has to monitor all those rules will feel as though this has caused them more work. Alternately, what if the people tell you they never follow the rules, but that they really want to start? This is critical to know before you design the system as well. Otherwise, you may observe them not following the rules, and build a system that does not allow them to enforce the policies they want.
So they key for these first two steps is to first determine how the current process/system is supposed to work. Often, that will not be how it actually works. Second, you need to determine how the system does actually work.
Now you have what you need to determine the Future (to-be) state. This is where you determine what the design of the new process/system will be. You need to put together what you have learned from the first two steps. As you work through this final step you should reference all the other things you have learned, and observed, through the first two steps. Now, you can start your design. When you present the final design to the customer, you should include your observations of all three states. Make sure you give them the opportunity to correct any of the observations or facts that you have collected. It is only through these steps that you and the customer can be on the same page about what they want. When that happens, you won’t hear the types of things that I wrote in the first sentence. Rather you will hear customers who are very happy with what you provided them. This means they will call you next time they need an upgrade or service. Leave a Comment
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Virtual Reality: Virtually Ready for Pro AV
By Dan Daley Special to InfoComm International
Like a video game, virtual reality (VR) technology allows participants to experience the world in simulated environments. But it may also change the game for the AV businesses. In the span of a couple years, the industry has seen tangential technologies, such as drones and the Internet of Things, become viable solutions in an integrator’s toolbox — far more quickly, for instance, than the shift from tape-based to random-access video sources, or even from analog to digital. Now, it seems, VR and it’s closely related sibling, augmented reality (AR), may be on the cusp of breaking out — and the gears are starting to turn.
Recently, pro AV distributor Stampede Global and Seattle-based VRstudios inked a North American distribution pact that will see Stampede distribute VRstudios’ virtual-reality platform and products. “We believe that virtual reality is going to have a profound impact on the [pro AV] industry,” said Stampede President and COO Kevin Kelly in a statement announcing the deal.
It already has. In education, TechCrunch reports on the surge in companies developing VR and AR platforms for K-12 and higher-education verticals. In medicine and healthcare, VR has been finding applications in everything from pain management to socialization for the medically isolated. In retail, companies like Lowe’s and North Face have been rolling out VR solutions that place customers into virtual environments, such as a renovated bathroom in their own home or the Moab Desert.
With both consumer and the commercial markets for VR proceeding at a fast clip, it’s not surprising that annual revenue is forecast to grow from less than $1 billion today to $30 billion by 2020, according to advisory firm Digi-Capital.
Deep Roots
Virtual reality is an extension of the trend toward immersive experiences that’s been developing in professional AV for the past several years. But instead of enveloping a group of people in, say, a video teleconference, it immerses them instead on an individual basis, pulling as many together as choose to plug into whatever virtual environment the software has cobbled together for them. Where it goes well beyond even immersive teleconferencing is that it also incorporates a user’s physical senses as part of virtual interaction. Virtual realities artificially create a sensory experience, which can include sight, touch, hearing, and smell.
VR began getting real traction in this century as more gaming systems added 3D and haptic feedback capability, and 360-degree viewing became more common through platforms such as Google Earth. The proliferation of consumer VR headsets stimulated the Moore’s Law effect, taking VR out of the expensive realm of applications like military flight simulators and high-end amusement park rides and into a commodity environment.
Augmented reality, on the other hand, describes a live-direct or indirect view of a physical, real-world environment whose elements are supplemented by computer-generated sensory input, such as sound, video, graphics or GPS data. It essentially annotates reality, adding commentary or additional information, enhancing one’s current perception of reality rather than replacing the real world with a simulated one.
Less immersive and more supportive, AR hardware can be less imposing than the bulky headpieces of VR. They’re typified by Google’s Glass product, released widely in 2013, which essentially integrated a smartphone’s worth of processing, including a camera and a heads-up display, into a pair of eyeglass frames. (Google Glass received mixed reviews on its release, generating concerns about privacy and safety. The most recent AR star, the Pokémon Go video game released earlier this year, has revived some of those concerns.)
But despite some mixed press, AR shows considerable potential for business applications. A Gartner analysis suggests that as location services and image-recognition capabilities improve, businesses can use AR for tasks such as vehicle, campus and in-building navigation and identification, and personnel and object-recognition in security and decision-making applications.
Integrators Seize the Opportunity
To some integrators, VR and AR are more immersive and personalized extensions of simulations they’ve done in the past for training, education and other applications. What entering the VR and AR domains has meant is more intensive partnering with content developers.
“The goal is to bundle the entire experience for the client, so we’re working closely with content developers so that we can bring a complete solution, with hardware and software,” explains Dale Bottcher, Senior Vice President of sales at integrator AVI-SPL. Bottcher was speaking from Microsoft’s Worldwide Partner Conference, held in Toronto in July, where he and other integrators looked at hardware such as Microsoft’s HoloLens. That and other VR and AR products from companies like Barco and Zeiss are providing a professional AV product pool for integrators.
On the content side, AVI-SPL’s Senior Vice President of Marketing Kelly Bousman says that big data will inevitably play a part in how VR develops for AV applications. Referring to sports, an area that’s already leveraging VR, she points out that virtual scenarios will require massive amounts of information from which to create viable outcomes for users.
“The data is what will power the simulation that the batter sees of the virtual pitcher he’s facing, to see what he’ll face in reality,” she explains. As good as VR’s AV experience might be, its actual value will depend on how accurate and well-processed the information that creates the simulation is. “It’s like a version of Moneyball,” she says referring to the book and film of that name that used data-based sabermetrics to rebuild the financially challenged Oakland A’s in the 1990s.
Kurt Hoffmeister, Vice President of Engineering and Product Development at integrator Mechdyne, says that while VR and AR have been around for a while and have been the basis for much of the company’s 20 years in business, it’s the recent explosion of consumer activity — particularly the proliferation of VR headset products — that is spurring VR’s growth in the AV sector. However, he adds, VR in an AV environment is more than just the headset.
“In the past, VR mostly used immersive flat-panel displays and projection,” Hoffmeister says. “Now, people want the headset in the mix, but that can complicate collaboration in applications like education and training. So very often, displays also still need to be part of the design, so that others can see ‘over the shoulder.’ It still requires considerable AV integration.”
Headset-based VR is, at its heart, very much a game-based proposition. Viewed that way, Hoffmeister says multiplayer game design can be applied to VR for pro AV applications, but it will require coding and IT skills that integrators may have to develop in order to be able to fully leverage VR in their businesses. “If your ‘game’ is a new assembly process on a factory floor, then a multiplayer game approach can work well,” he says. “But for other applications, the software will have to be adapted. That requires certain skills.”
The Future
Broadcast and live events are becoming fertile fields for VR and AR technology. This year, live VR company NextVR concluded a five-year deal with Fox Sports to produce live and video-on-demand VR content around sports broadcasts and inked a four-year deal with Live Nation, the world’s largest concert promoter, to manage VR for dozens of concerts annually. The company has assembled three mobile VR units that can be dispatched to live-event sites: a truck-based mobile unit that can field up to 10 VR camera rigs that will primarily work events in North America and two flypack units that will have the capability of supporting VR events globally.
Interest on the academic side is also increasing. The 2016 AES Convention, the annual conclave that takes place in the U.S. and is the largest of the organization’s conventions globally, is putting VR and AR high on its agenda for the first time. The AES International Conference on Audio for Virtual and Augmented Reality will co-locate with the 141st AES Convention Sept. 30 to Oct. 1 in Los Angeles. It will include a manufacturer’s expo, essentially creating a mini trade show for the burgeoning sector.
Virtual and augmented reality are now in many AV integrators’ toolboxes. They’ll be in many more in short order. So let the “games” begin.
This column is republished with permission from InfoComm International and originally appeared here. Leave a Comment
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Stratacache Acquires Scala — Good News in the Jungle
By Lyle Bunn Strategy Architect, BUNN Co.
The August 15, 2016 announcement by Dayton-headquartered STRATACACHE of its acquisition of Scala, the high-profile digital signage software supplier is good news for end users, providers of the place-based media and the industry at large.
STRATACACHE operates over 1.5 million software and appliance installations for more than 425 end user organizations including Wal-Mart, McDonalds, Lowes, AT&T, H&M, Huntington Bank and many others. It has acquired and integrated other businesses such as PRN, Optika, Carmanah Signs and most recently intellectual property from VertiGo and Civiq into its increasing capabilities, and has been strengthened by the addition of deeply knowledgeable personnel. STRATACACHE has 18 corporate locations in North America with others in Europe, Asia and Australia. It has five development, four hosting sites and three network operations centers. STRATACACHE has served end users in direct supply and operates with a comprehensive support model.
Scala has a similar 25-year longevity, working with more than 500 partners in 100 countries to operate more than 500,000 displays. Scala’s strength has been in working with channel partners including integrators and distributors while assuring no channel conflict on situations where it would work directly with the end user.
STRATACACHE’s corporate health, deep engineering, operating, analytics and client service in its direct sales model and its experience in serving generally larger deployments of place-based media, is an excellent compliment for Scala with its channel strategy and a base of installations that can reasonably be expected to expand based on astute application of the media and ongoing developments.
This consolidation of capabilities enables better service of needs on the global stage through the combined strengths of these preeminent suppliers, each of which has been central to digital place-based media application and advancement. In STRATACACHE’s augmenting of its direct supply model with supply through channel partners and integrators as used by Scala, STRATACACHE will move the industry’s supply capacities to new levels. Current users of Scala will benefit from a deeper knowledge base and improved corporate stability.
In past acquisitions, STRATACACHE has empowered the acquired business unit while allowing them to operate entrepreneurially bringing subject matter expertise and active support to vertical market clients. It could reasonably be expected that Scala operations will be treated in the same way.
Innovation is a demonstrated priority of STRATACACHE as indicated by its ongoing developments in areas such as content strategy and composition, analytics, omni-channel, hardware price/performance improvement, display enclosures, tablet and mobile interactivity, anonymous audience detection and identification, traffic tracking, gestural interaction, augmented reality, human vision replication and other areas of digital media areas.
So, end users seeking location-based media innovation and the engineering and customer support teams of the two providers will benefit from the merging of innovation programs. And it could be entirely expected that innovation partners of Scala will be welcomed into the bigger sandbox.
Dot2Dot Communications of Toronto for example, acts as Scala Canada. As an independently owned and operated partner Dot2Dot has developed the Ad Manager overlay for Scala. It only operates with the Scala CMS and Dot2Dot’s ad management capabilities are introduced to end users by Scala and other partners where third party advertising or sponsor revenues are an element of the digital signage business model.
The combination of STRATACACHE’s system capabilities to handle in-store promotional spending and campaigns in large retailers (like Wal-Mart) and the Dot2Dot/Scala partnership bodes well for network operators and end users.
The integration of Scala into STRATACACHE operations offers end users an improved entry and migration path in their use of digital place-based messaging and engagement capabilities.
The acquisition of Scala by STRATACACHE provides a substantially stronger base of supply from the standpoint of functionality options, alternatives and scalability.
Consolidation of supply reflects the next natural stage of organic digital signage industry growth and positions the sector for greater contributions media commerce and the economic success of enterprises, industries, countries, regions and countries. As the pace of technology application accelerates for benefits “in the now,” strength of supply, as reflected in this acquisition agreement is a critical success factor.
The accelerated application of digital signage and overall industry development will benefit all. In short, end users will gain a broader and stronger supply option from the expanded STRATACACHE family of providers. The harmonizing and consolidation of research, development, innovation and best practices will accelerate use cases and standards of practice. The struggle of provider sourcing can be streamlined allowing end users to get on with the gaining the benefits of the media. Firms competing with STRATACACHE and Scala will “up their game” in the face of this combined supply capability.
This acquisition puts me in mind of The Jungle Book story that many parents have read to their children and is the subject of another recent movie version.
It’s a jungle out there for retailers, brands and others. But like Mowgli (the jungle boy) who is protected, developed and supported by the panther Bagheera, (representative of the fiercely competitive but somewhat private and elusive STRATACACHE) and a big bear named Baloo (representative of Scala), end users have been in good hands. Their combined contributions equip Mowgli to stand against King Louie who wants to be all-powerful (let’s call this online commerce). The Jungle becomes a better place, just as place-based media through capable champions can do.
Integrators and other channel providers will have access to broader capabilities and a growing market for the medium. Scala partners and proponents will benefit from the broader feature set and stability of supply offered by this acquisition.
Consolidation has not been expected as a needed feature of and for industry expansion. Sales (for suppliers) and acquisition (for end users) costs have hampered industry growth, detracting from investment on innovations that can significantly advance the use of place-based customer experience and engagement technologies. Technology providers such as IBM, Microsoft, HP, Cisco, Harris Corp, 3M and Google have made splashes in the digital signage lake, but without the significant, long-term implication or impact that large and institutional investors seek.
This acquisition of Scala by STRATACACHE is a giant step forward for digital signage and place-based media. More consolidation and expansion can be expected, on the basis that the medium simply makes business and economic sense through the enterprise and value that it delivers.
John F. Kennedy said, “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country,” as a reminder that value in service is the only basis on which progress can occur. In the 1600s, Martin Luther launched the reformation by challenging “indulges” and institutional authority.
The consolidation of STRATACACHE and Scala as the major industry providers signals that the time is come for digital location-based media to reach new levels of enterprise and economic contribution.
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Global Sales of Commercial Flat Panel Products Rise 17 Percent Year-on-Year to Reach Shipments of 855,000 Units in Q2 2016The global commercial flat panel display market totaled shipments of 855,000 units in Q2 2016, a year-on-year increase of 17 percent.
Of the major product categories, the LCD videowall market shows the highest year-on-year growth rate but this positive trend is largely limited to China with sales in other major markets largely stagnant. In China, rising demand from the security industry has seen the market boom in the past two years, with Q2 LCD videowall volumes growing 86 percent year-on-year to reach shipments of over 140,000 units.
Beyond China, the market shows continued signs of stagnation, screen volumes falling 10 percent year-on-year. The replacement of tilled LCD solutions by large screen 4K panels and Narrow Pixel Pitch (NPP) LED products is one of the primary factors holding back the LCD video wall segment.
“The digital signage segment continues to see positive growth rates this quarter, aided by a major Quick Service Restaurants (QSR) installation in the US market. Despite this, rates of growth in the segment are not as high as in previous years,” commented Graham Cooke, Displays Analyst at Futuresource Consulting.
He added, “Rising penetration in key customer groups like Banking, QSR and Automotive means the market is showing signs of maturity in some segments. As volume growth slows, manufacturers are focusing on high value segments, expanding product lines in areas like high brightness, stretched display and 4K product lines.”
With slowing growth in both videowall and signage display sales, presentation markets are becoming an increasingly important segment with growth for both interactive and non-interactive solutions. “Both the education and corporate markets are seeing strong growth across a diverse range of geographies this year. The falling costs of large screen products alongside increasing demands for more collaborative work environments are two of the key factors increasing demand here,” says Cooke. Leave a Comment
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BASSBOSS Intros Budget VS21 SubwooferAustin-based powered loudspeaker manufacturer BASSBOSS just launched their new VS21 powered subwoofer. The VS21’s hybrid vented short horn enclosure delivers exceptional transient response thanks to performance efficiencies at the upper end of its operating range. This is expressed as a fast attack, which is highly desirable for acoustic instruments like kick drums and bass guitars. At the same time, the enclosure is optimized for low frequency performance and depth, thanks to a large acoustical volume, low tuning and the massive displacement of a long-excursion 21″ woofer — up to 58 millimeters of excursion peak-to-peak. With a frequency response of 27-100 Hz and 132 dB of continuous output at the ready, the VS21 offers much deeper and smoother response than similarly-sized horn-loaded boxes, while still delivering high-impact power and tremendous dynamics.
The VS21’s dimensions (36”x24”x36”) allow for easy integration into existing speaker cubbyholes, providing a cost-effective and straightforward path for venues to upgrade the low-end performance of their systems without a ‘rip and replace’ renovation. Its smaller frontal area also allows more output to be focused forward from a limited area than a typical set up with dual 18” subs. The VS21’s enclosure is made from 18mm Baltic Birch plywood with dado joints and stainless steel hardware. It is finished with a rugged, touring-grade, waterproof, polyurea coating. This enables it to stand up to the demands of day-to-day life in the club or on the road. Covers and wheel carts are also available.
Like all BASSBOSS loudspeakers, the VS21 is powered by a built-in 2400W RMS amplifier that includes all of the necessary processing for seamless ‘plug-and-play’ operation. An included low-pass filter provides a broad, flat frequency response without the need for any EQ. The VS21 also features a sophisticated limiter system, which protects the woofer from thermal and overexcursion damage. This enables users to achieve maximum output from the loudspeaker without concerns about overdriving it.
The BASSBOSS VS21 will be shipping in late August and is priced at $3,995 and here are the details. Leave a Comment
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TASCAM MiNiSTUDIO Line ShipsInternet broadcasting and production are easier than ever with new TASCAM MiNiSTUDIO-series personal audio interfaces.
The TASCAM MiNiSTUDIO Personal US-32 is an easily affordable solution for Internet broadcasting, supplying the key tools you need, while delivering excellent audio quality. The MiNiSTUDIO Creator US-42 has all the podcasting features of the MiNiSTUDIO Personal and adds a number of features that are ideal for more advanced audio and video production.
Both TASCAM MiNiSTUDIOs provide high-resolution recording up to 24-bit, 96 kHz with Windows and Mac computers. The interfaces connect via USB 2.0 and can be USB bus-powered. You can also connect them to iOS devices using an Apple Camera Kit (not included). They are compatible with all major DAW software and work with all major streaming software and services.
TASCAM MiNiSTUDIOs also enable you to easily add sound effects on-the-fly, thanks to three self-lighting PON pads that trigger audio files from the Mac or PC. Three sounds are included, but can be easily replaced with by a .wav or .mp3 file of your choosing. A cool Voice Effects feature lets you alter the sound of your singing or speech, as well; it’s a fun effect that adds color to your podcasts.
At showtime, an illuminated On Air button confirms that you’re live on the air and busses audio to and from the computer by way of the MiNiSTUDIO’s powerful Broadcast mode. This ensures that you are hearing everything your audience hears, making the MiNiSTUDIO a well-integrated and easy-to-use interface that lets you focus on your podcast, rather than your equipment.
To complete the package, both models include free software for Mac, Windows, and iOS that provides extensive control of the MiNiSTUDIO’s features in one of two specially designed modes. In Easy mode, you get software control of most-used EQ, compression, and effects presets, while Expert mode lets you dig in deep to program the four-band parametric EQ, compressor and reverb parameters, as well as advanced parameters for triggered sounds.
The TASCAM MiNiSTUDIO Personal US-32 features a built-in microphone and a combo XLR mic/balanced ¼-inch TRS line input with high-quality mic preamp and 48V phantom power. A 1/8-inch input can connect to a smartphone, tablet, or other consumer audio device so you can fly in prerecorded music and dialog. Separate headphone and headset/mic connections are also available.
The MiNiSTUDIO Creator US-42 extends the features of the MiNiSTUDIO Personal by adding a powerful set of tools for producing, as well as broadcasting your podcasts. Instead of the built-in mic, the MiNiSTUDIO Creator adds a second XLR/TRS mic input so you can mic yourself and a guest with lavalieres or other external microphones and enjoy amazingly crisp and clear audio thanks to TASCAM’s professional-caliber HDDA microphone preamps. In addition to headphone outputs, the MiNiSTUDIO Creator offers stereo RCA line-level outputs with separate level controls for connection to powered monitors.
In addition to supporting the Broadcast mode of the MiNiSTUDIO Personal US-32, the US-42 can be switched into the aptly named Creator mode. In this mode, the MiNiSTUDIO Creator behaves like most USB audio interfaces. This mode is recommended for production with a DAW or video editing software. The loopback feature is turned off, and the mic inputs are routed separately to the computer.
The MiNiSTUDIO Personal US-32 and MiNiSTUDIO Creator US-42 list for $129.99 and $179.99, respectively. All the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Bose Professional Ships New Line of PowerShare Adaptable Amplifiers Bose is now shipping its new PowerShare adaptable power amplifier line, consisting of three 1U models: two- and four-channel fixed-install models (PS602 and PS604) and one two-channel portable amplifier (PS602P). Each model delivers 600 watts of power that can be shared across all output channels. With support for both low- and high-impedance loads up to 100V, PowerShare amplifiers adapt to a wide range of applications. Onboard configurable loudspeaker processing and direct access to zone controllers eliminate the need for an additional signal processor in many installations, while outstanding audio performance and reliability are assured with patented technologies inherited from the field-proven PowerMatch line.
Patented PowerShare technology allows installers to use total amplifier power in the application. This enables more flexibility during the initial design, or later on-site when making unplanned changes that take advantage of surplus power.
For applications requiring additional signal processing, the PowerShare Editor software offers real-time selection and control of Bose loudspeaker EQs, 9-band PEQs, mixing, crossover, limiters, delay and mute/output polarity through a USB connection. For basic setups without a PC, rear-panel settings allow installers to recall Bose loudspeaker equalization and protection per output channel. These features eliminate the need for an external signal processor in many applications.
Bose PowerShare products are here. Leave a Comment
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TURBOSOUND Ships Flagship FLASHLINE Monitors TURBOSOUND has today announced the shipping of its flagship FLASHLINE MONITORS range of two-way loudspeakers. Designed primarily as stage monitors, they also accommodate a wide range of portable speech and music sound reinforcement applications. The flagship range consists of four models, two 12” and two 15” models, the TFM122M and TFM152M switchable passive/bi-amp loudspeakers, as well as the TFM122M-AN and TFM152M-AN powered loudspeakers.
The new two-way switchable passive/bi-amp TFM122M and TFM152M monitors feature 1,400 Watts of peak power designed to work in conjunction with LAB GRUPPEN amplification and loudspeaker management systems.
Specifically the TFM122M features a carbon fiber loaded 12” neodymium motor low frequency driver with a titanium dome 1.4” neodymium motor compression driver with the larger TFM152M featuring a carbon fiber loaded 15” neodymium motor low frequency driver with the titanium dome 1.4” neodymium motor compression driver.
The powered models in the range, the TFM122M-AN and TFM152M-AN, deliver 2,500 watts of peak power while featuring the same custom engineered driver technology as the switchable passive/bi-amp models in the range. These models are designed to work individually without a controller so feature an intuitive user interface via LCD display or remote control via TURBOSOUND PC Edit software.
You can see them here. Leave a Comment
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beyerdynamic Debuts New Gooseneck and Array Microphones with Programmable Button beyerdynamic has extended its product range of the Classis installation microphone series with new gooseneck and vertical Revoluto Array microphones, which are fitted with programmable buttons. The button functions can be easily selected with a rotary control.
By using the programmable button of the SP variants you can select the operating mode ON/OFF, Push-To-Talk or Push-To-Mute. The microphone button can also be completely disabled. Furthermore, there are two settings of the frequency response possible: linear or with bass roll-off to suppress low-frequency noise. The LED ring to display the microphone status can be deactivated.
In addition to the features of the SP variants, the RC version allows the operation by an external control. In addition to this an external device can be controlled via the control output when operating the microphone button.
Versions:
- Classis GM 313 SP – gooseneck microphone, 300 mm (12“) long, LED ring, programmable button
- Classis GM 315 SP – gooseneck microphone, 500 mm (20“) long, LED ring, programmable button
- Classis GM 315 RC – gooseneck microphone, 500 mm (20“) long, LED ring, programmable button, remote control
- Classis RM 31 SP – array microphone with Revoluto Technology, LED ring, programmable button
- Classis RM 31 RC – array microphone with Revoluto technology, LED ring, programmable button, remote control
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James Loudspeaker Adds a High-Output Small Aperture Architectural Speaker James Loudspeaker has added to their lineup of Small Aperture (SA) architectural speakers with the introduction of the 63SA-7HO high-output in-ceiling loudspeaker. The 63SA-7HO is a three-way speaker system featuring greater sensitivity than prior models and a new 6.5-inch woofer capable of higher output.
The James Loudspeaker 63SA-7HO features what hey claim is “aircraft-grade” aluminum construction and a modular design, providing long life and easy service, while the built-in limiter offers the utmost in long term reliability. The 63SA-7HO’s compact footprint and 7-inch depth is best suited for in-ceiling applications. The SA series of speakers is available with an array of 3-inch round and square grilles and has also been designed to accept industry standard 3-inch and 4-inch lighting trim kits to allow seamless integration with similarly styled lighting products.
The James Loudspeaker 63SA-7HO utilizes proprietary drivers including a 6.5-inch aluminum woofer, a 2-inch midrange and a ¾-inch tweeter.
The 63SA-7HO is $1,400 and here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Go Getter Now Includes AIR Wireless Companion Speaker Anchor Audio has announced the Go Getter AIR wireless companion speaker. Anchor Audio’s Go Getter AIR is battery powered, operates 6-8 hours or more on a single charge, and can be placed 150+ feet from the transmitter. Transmitters come as an optional built-in upgrade to the main sound system. One transmitter can connect to an unlimited number of AIR wireless companion speakers. The AIR wireless technology offers 100 user-selectable channels operating within the 900 MHz frequency, which is one of the few clear channel ranges available and, therefore, limits interference from competing signals. Furthermore, the 900 MHz band offers expanded wireless range for an increased transmission distance. AIR companion speakers can also operate in ‘wired mode,’ which includes simply flipping a switch and plugging in a cable. The Go Getter is a lightweight and easy to transport. Delivering 109 dB of clear sound, it is meant for both music and voice amplification.
Currently, Anchor Audio’s Go Getter Portable Sound System, Liberty Platinum Portable Sound System and MegaVox Pro Portable PA System offer AIR wireless companion speakers.
The AIR companion transmitter also connects with Anchor Audio’s Assistive Listening Devices (ALB-9000), which operate on the same 902-928 MHz, resulting in an immediate ADA-compliant portable sound system. Main-unit systems are available with up to two wireless microphone receivers in addition to the AIR wireless companion transmitter.
The Go Getter AIR wireless companion speaker is priced at $450. Here are the tech specs. Leave a Comment
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BenQ Launches CH100 LED Projector Aimed at Meeting Room Market BenQ America today announced the availability of the 1080p resolution CH100, the company’s first portable LED projector and using single-chip DLP. Covering a wide color gamut of 90 percent NTSC, the CH100 reproduces the sRGB color standard and has five picture modes — Graphic sRGB, Motion Graphics, Lectures, Vivid Color and Cinema settings.
Powered by a 20,000-hour lamp-free LED light source, the CH100 is spec’d at 1,000 ANSI lumens. The CH100 is approximately the same size of a 13-inch laptop, making is small enough to easily slip into a portfolio. Inputs are three HDMI (with one doubling as an MHL port) and it turns on instantly (now power-up sequence) and features automatic aspect ratio, keystone and source detection.
The CH100 is equipped with short-throw capability to project large 81-inch images from just 6 feet away. Additionally, an optional QCast wireless full HD 1080p streaming dongle stows into a concealed compartment. The BenQ CH100 is now shipping and lists for $1,799. Here are the specs. Leave a Comment
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Extron Announces New HDMI Cable Equalizer for 4K/60 Sources Extron just introduced the HD 4K 101 Plus, an HDMI cable equalizer supporting video signals at resolutions up to 4K/60 with 4:4:4 chroma sampling. Used at the destination end of a long cable run, the HD 4K 101 Plus actively equalizes poor or marginal source signals, reduces jitter and skew, and adds output pre-emphasis to reliably extend the HDMI signal. The HDCP 2.2-compliant equalizer supports HDMI 2.0b specification features, including data rates up to 18 Gbps, HDR, Deep Color up to 12-bit, 3D, HD lossless audio formats and CEC. To streamline integration, the 1/8 rack wide unit can be powered by the connected HDMI source or an optional external power supply.
The HD 4K 101 Plus compensates for poor HDMI source signals and low-quality cabling. It can be used in conjunction with products such as the Extron HD 4K 110 Series to provide a cost effective solution for extending 4K video signals between the source and the display. DDC channels are actively buffered, allowing pass-through of EDID and HDCP information between source and display. EDID pass-through ensures that the source video is at the optimal resolution for the display, and HDCP 2.2 compliance enables extension of encrypted content from Blu-ray players, satellite and cable TV tuners, DVRs, laptop computers, and other HDCP-enabled sources. These capabilities and other features such as a compact enclosure and ability to be powered by the source device make the HD 4K 101 Plus an indispensable addition to AV designs and existing systems with 4K video requirements.
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New Crestron DM-DGE-200-C Claims Simple Meeting Room Solution Crestron announced today it is now shipping its new DigitalMedia DM-DGE-200-C, designed to be a simple meeting room solution for multiple applications. It offers auto-switching between HDMI and 4K/60 DM input (4:2:0), auto-display on/off, and H.264 decoding, IR control and direct connectivity to Microsoft Exchange and Crestron Fusion Cloud via the LAN port. And, the DM-DGE-200-C has a built-in graphics engine to generate custom welcome screens and messaging.
A web-based setup tool built into the DM-DGE-200-C allows it to connect directly to Microsoft Exchange to show the room’s availability on the room display, or detailed meeting information, including the organizer’s name, subject of the meeting, start time, and the duration of the meeting. During the meeting, the room calendar information, including a countdown clock to show the time remaining, can be displayed over the presentation video. The DM-DGE-200-C also connects directly to Crestron Fusion Cloud enterprise management service using the web-based setup tool.
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PureLink Debuts Locking Screw HDMI Cables PureLink today announced the availability of its new line of “locking” HDMI cables, under its TotalWire brand. The cables support HDMI 2.0b technology as well as the transmission of HDR (High Dynamic Range) content and have a screw-based locking feature that prevents strain and loose connections and could eliminate the need for additional port savers or brackets.
The PLH Locking Screw HDMI cables are spec’d at 18Gbps of bandwidth for use with HDMI v.2.0b. They also offer HDR, CEC and HDCP 2.2 compliance to support multi-dimensional immersive audio content and dynamic control options. The PLH has multi-layer shielding, for EMI protection, and supports 4K@50/60 (2160p) at 4:4:4 color format. The new locking screw cables come in a variety of lengths, including 1, 2, 3 and 5 meter (3.3, 6.6, 10 and 16.5 feet) cables.
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Atlona Ships Eight-Output 4K/UHD Distribution Amplifier Atlona announced it is now shipping its eight-output 4K/UHD distribution amplifier that features HDMI-to-HDBaseT distribution of 4K/UHD @ 60 Hz (4:2:0 Chroma sampling) video, HDBaseT transmission up to 70 meters, HDCP 2.2 support, and Power over Ethernet (PoE). The AT-UHD-CAT-8 also provides EDID management and advanced display control functions through Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) for use with home TVs.
In addition to HDBaseT outputs, the new DA provides an HDMI output for signal pass-through and daisy-chaining, and it is equipped with one IR and RS232 connection for the amp as well as one for each output channel.
The AT-UHD-CAT-8, which is rack-mountable and fits in one full-width single RU space, lists for $2,299 and it’s here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Announces New Larger HDMI 4K Distribution Amplifiers Extron has two new 4K distribution amplifiers in the DA HD 4K Series, the DA4 HD 4K and DA6 HD 4K provide reliable distribution of a source video signal to as many as four or six displays, respectively. All three models in the HD HD 4K Series are HDCP compliant and support data rates up to 10.2 Gbps, Deep Color up to 12‑bit, 3D, Lip Sync and HD lossless audio formats. Extron technologies provide easy EDID and HDCP management, and automatic input cable equalization ensures signal integrity up to 50 feet (15 meters) when used with Extron HDMI Pro Series cables.
The DA HD 4K Series offers integration-friendly features that include automatic color bit depth management based on EDID, selectable output muting via RS‑232, as well as front panel indicators for easy monitoring and troubleshooting. They also feature Extron EDID Minder and Key Minder technologies to maintain continuous EDID communication between between connected devices and ensure simultaneous distribution of HDCP-encrypted source content. Each output provides +5 VDC, 250 mA for powering peripheral devices such as an Extron UHD4K 101 or HDMI 101 Plus cable equalizer. Now available in sizes ranging from two to six outputs to match the most common design needs, the DA HD 4K Series is ideal for applications that require the reliable distribution of a single HDMI source signal to multiple displays.
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Extron Introduces eBUS Button Panels for Volume Control and Video Transport Extron has introduced nine additional eBUS Button Panels. Six of these provide volume control, microphone level and muting control, while the other three provide full-featured video transport control. All of these easy-to-use control panels connect to an IPCP Pro control processor and feature customizable, soft-touch buttons that are backlit for easy operation in low-light environments. Each model features two eBUS ports for easy system expansion. eBUS button panels are linked to the control processor and to each other using a single cable that carries both power and communication. eBUS Button Panels are available in Decora, EU and MK form factors. For applications worldwide, the EU models are compatible with Flex55 modules, mounting kits and enclosures.
Extron’s integration-friendly eBUS technology is based on a unique digital bus architecture that allows for easy control system expansion, greater design options, and future upgrades. As with our TouchLink Pro touchpanels, eBUS button panels are designed for use with any Extron IPCP Pro Series control processor. A single eBUS button panel can be used as the AV control interface for a smaller system or multiple button panels and touchpanels may be combined when a more elaborate control system is required.
eBUS button panels come in industry-standard form factors and multiple units may be linked together by a single cable that carries both power and communication. Since they have the same physical appearance as Extron’s broad range of MediaLink controllers, eBUS button panels can be used alongside them throughout a facility while preserving a consistent look and user experience. Buttons can be easily customized using the online Custom Button Builder application.
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Altinex Debuts Neutron MT322-105 and MT322-107 Power Distribution Cards for the MT302-201 Digital MultiTaskerAltinex just introduce the MT322-105 and MT322-107 power distribution cards for use with its MT302-201 Digital MultiTasker. Both units distribute AC power from a single AC source to multiple AC outlets. With these one-in, three-out AC power distribution cards, the outlets can be connected to any type of audio/video equipment. And both cards have built-in current measuring circuits to detect load levels. The value of these loads may be read over the IP port and an alarm can be triggered when power is exceeded.
The MT322-105 contains an IEC male connector for the AC supply input and standard NEMA 5-15R power receptacles for the three outputs. Built in sensors alert the user by flashing the LEDs when the load exceeds 9.5 Amp as well as a warning message over the IP port when the current draw approaches the maximum 10.5-amp limit. The MT322-107 international version contains one IEC male connector for the AC power supply input and three IEC 320 female outlets. With this model, sensors alert the user when the load exceeds 8.5 amps and a warning message is sent over the IP port when the current draw approaches the maximum 10-amp limit. Both cards have safety provisions that cause the cards to automatically start turning outlets off should the system approach maximum power draw. A message informing the user that outputs are being shutdown is sent to the MT302-201 Digital MultiTasker’s IP port.
Both the MT322-105 and MT322-107 are able to turn audio/video equipment on or off in a sequential order and the time delay between switching is also programmable from 0-50 seconds. The threshold level for the on/off detect feature is adjustable to accommodate different loads and determine when AV equipment is on or off.
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Elite Screen’s Manual Grande Large-Venue Screens Debut Elite Screens believes there’s a strong demand for manual screens again — so they are launching a new line of them. The Manual Grande is designed to accommodate large group presentations and its operation incorporates a bead-chain-clutch system similar to the mechanism used in controlling large window drapes. Elite Screens claims this is important because it gives more versatility in the screen’s height settings.
Although lower pricing is an advantage, the Manual Grande fulfills a role in providing a retractable big-screen installation that does not require an electrical source. Various facilities may not be adequately wired to provide outlets for ceiling or near-ceiling attachments. This is especially true with precast concrete buildings and subterranean structures. A larger non-electric screen may also be more appropriate for use in thin-walled structures that have a limited weight tolerance and local code requirements may not permit the necessary wiring for this application. The Manual Grande is GREENGUARD / GREENGUARD Gold (UL 2818) certified.
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DigitalSignBuilder.Com Releases A Digital Signage Solution Aimed at Hospitals and Doctors’ OfficesDigitalSignBuilder.com has announced an “out-of-the-box digital signage solution” for hospitals, doctor offices, clinics and waiting rooms.
DigitalSignBuilder’s new hospital facility digital signage packages allow organizations to blend instant answers to patient questions, important policy updates, available services, payment options, insurance information and other relevant notifications into an easy to manage the system. Features include:
- Keeping staff up to date on policies and HR news
- Provide live, training of new protocols and procedures
- Share news of charity drives and health fairs
- Display wait times and valuable insurance information
- Entertain with feeds of health facts, tips, and advice
In addition, the new Hospital Wayfinding Digital Signage package allows for facilities to provide patients and visitors with Pinch and Zoom 3D “You are here” multi-floor multi-building maps. Every map can be connected to an interactive directory for one-click map directions. Each directory listing can feature a description, image and phone number of the destination. Here are all the details. Leave a Comment
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For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe ProAV Edition out there, hopefully you enjoyed another opinion-packed issue!
For those of you NEW to rAVe, you just read how we are — we are 100 percent opinionated. We not only report the news and new product stories of the ProAV industry, but we stuff the articles full of our opinions. That may include (but is not limited to) whether or not the product is even worth looking at, challenging the manufacturers on their specifications, calling a marketing-spec bluff and suggesting ways integrators market their products better. But, one thing is for sure, we are NOT a trade publication that gets paid for running editorial or product stories. Traditional trade publications get paid to run product stories — that’s why you see what you see in most of the pubs out there. We are different: We run what we want to run and NO ONE is going to pay us to write anything good (or bad).
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Everything we publish is opt-in — we spam NO ONE! rAVe ProAV Edition is our flagship publication with what we believe is a reach of virtually everyone in the ProAV market. rAVe HomeAV Edition is co-published with CEDIA, covering the HomeAV market. We added rAVe Rental [and Staging] in November 2007, rAVe ED [Education] in May 2008 and then rAVe DS [Digital Signage] in January 2009. We added rAVe GHGav [Green, Healthcare & Government AV] in August 2010 and rAVe HOW [House of Worship] in July 2012. You can subscribe to any of those publication or see ALL our archives by going to: https://www.ravepubs.com
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