Volume 11, Issue 2 — February 21, 2017
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Selling Collaboration Boards Through the Rental Market
By Joel Rollins rAVe Columnist
Back in December, my predictions for 2017 included the idea that collaboration would be a top driver for our industry this year, including the rental and staging portion of the industry. Several people wrote in to ask about this prediction, mostly inquiring as to how a rental company prepares for such a change in technology, and what makes me so certain that a driving factor (which has mostly influenced the huddle room so far) will also become a driver for the rental portion of the industry.
Well, first of all, the biggest driver will be a demographic and sociological shift among our clients. The “social media generation” has produced a number of changes in communication styles. The top-down model of management is currently in disfavor (temporarily, because all such changes are cyclical). In its place comes an inclusive”management style that pays attention to everyone’s input, 140 characters at a time. Interactive and collaborative meetings fit this sociological change and organizations are rather eagerly attempting to prove they are “with it.”
Second, and probably most important, is the massive amount of advertising money being spent by some of the world’s top companies to promote it. We have had interactive meeting equipment available for some time, but today Silicon Valley leaders are introducing more than equipment — they are introducing complete meeting environments and toolkits. This is straight out of the iPhone playbook, where the real strength of the product is not in its hardware, but in its ecosystem. Companies such as Microsoft, Google and Cisco are already in the market and their competitors (notably Apple) will not want to be locked out of this market either.
So, if this is the direction that the largest portion of the meetings market will move in, how does a rental company ensure that they are properly positioned to take advantage of the social logical changes — and the marketing money?
To paraphrase Shakespeare, the answer lies not in our inventories, but in ourselves.
The equipment in this market segment, from now on, will be short-lived. In the past, we have had to move quickly, driven by the professional electronics market. Over the last 20 years, most types of equipment, especially digital types, have displayed a product lifecycle that gets shorter with each year, as developments in technology quickly obsolete older equipment. But this is nothing compared to being driven by companies with billions of dollars and heavy experience in consumer marketing. These companies intend to make products in much larger quantities than we have seen before, driving the price down and introducing features and capabilities in each model designed to completely obsolete all older models. This is coupled with an effort to move features and services from being based in hardware to being accommodated in the cloud.
So how does the rental company prepare itself for the market onslaught? The answer is: by becoming users ourselves. And this does not mean just being able to hook up and demonstrate equipment. This change runs deeper than that, and our client organizations are looking for more than the hardware that they see in the in-flight magazines. They are looking for guidance.
There are some concrete steps that you can take to make your staff comfortable with this technology, and to position your company to take advantage — and quite a number of them can have the side effect of improving organizational efficiency, while utilizing money that was already being spent.
First, let’s begin with those internal meetings that we already have. Most rental companies that I have worked with make at least a pretense of a regular staff meeting, but it often devolves into a two-stage meeting where management goes over policy, procedures and upcoming events, and then “goes around the table” to see if the rest of the staff has anything that they want to bring up (even though by now they are looking at their watches). One could begin by simply rotating the responsibility for these meetings and their content among the staff, giving them responsibility to efficiently interact with the rest of the staff both to gather the substance of the meeting, and then to conduct it. Make it a point to conduct a meeting using the interactive technologies that you have available in your inventory. This has the dual effect of both acquainting an employee with the collaborative process, and of helping the entire staff become more comfortable with using the technology. Since another target of the collaborative meeting is efficiency, charge the employees with conducting this meeting and its follow-up without increasing the amount of time spent in meetings, and to come up with validation for the process afterward in the form of a brief post meeting summary that emphasizes points of efficiency that were arrived at during the meeting.
Now, the second thing we have to do to enable our companies to take advantage of this change is much harder than the first.
We have to learn to charge for it.
Now, charging for expertise and guidance is something our industry has never done well. We have a tendency to bill for events from a line item list of the hardware that was used, with a single line for labor. In doing this, we have consistently de-emphasized what we actually do. But if you read back through the points of this article, and you agreed up until this point, then you have to face the fact that equipment will become less expensive, more integrated and shorter lived, making it a smaller and smaller part of each rental as time goes on.
Think on that one for a bit, and decide if you can make the turn required for this segment of the market. Next issue, we will attempt to structure changes to a rental inventory that accommodate the shift without breaking the bank.
By the way, a great reference can be found in “The Collaboration Imperative,” which you can find on Amazon here.
Stay tuned. Leave a Comment
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We Have a Plan But It Doesn’t Work!
By Frederick Ampel President & Principal, Technology Visions Analytics
Suppose you were one of the United States largest businesses, with your estimated net valuation exceeding 63 billion dollars, with gross revenue over 9 billion. Your 32 divisions average over $300 million in gross profit every year, and your divisional COO’s average salary is over 8 million, without considering anything but cash compensation. Who would you be? Have you figured it out yet?
You are the NFL!
Now, you choose to deploy new technology to each and every COO (head coach), in a 400 million dollar endorsement deal with Microsoft. By mandate every coaching staff WILL use Microsoft Surface tablets for every game. There is no option, and there is no pre-deployment discussion on how this is being implemented. It is simply a fait-accompli by direct orders from NFL headquarters in New York City, period.
There Is No Pre-Deployment Discussion
This plan, or lack of one, depending on your perspective, is not unique to the NFL, or for that matter thousands of companies, enterprises and educational institutions across the country and around the world.
A decision is made to implement, deploy, require, mandate or otherwise force technology and devices into the hands of users with little if any consultation with those users or any evaluation of whether what is being planned actually makes any sense or is even practical. Forget about in-field testing and debugging, just ship the stuff out and make it work, if you can, later — the AV system version of the old recording adage “we’ll fix it in the mix.” Yeah! Right! Sure you will!
Too many of the folks that technology is intended to help end up actually resenting the technology.
In the AV integration industry, this is nothing new. How often have we heard stories about how long it takes to launch a video call or meeting?
The AV industry is battling negative stereotypes. “AV — that’s the stuff that doesn’t work,” is practically a mantra in the corporate world, especially among the IT-based purchasers of today.
But you, dear reader, who are probably one of the folks who work for the integration firms that are actually responsible for providing audio, video, communications and automation solutions for organizations shouldn’t be laughing. You should be afraid, very afraid, and if you’re not already doing so, paying VERY close attention to this seemingly built-in perception of your customer base.
All of these issues have been a problem forever it seems. But recently they achieved front-page, lead story, breaking news status, when one of the COO’s who just happens to be the head coach of the New England Patriots delivered a VERY public rant, which exploded in every media format you can think of.
All of These Issues Have Been a Problem Forever It Seems
You may have caught bits and pieces, but it is worth looking at precisely what was said, and why.
What Coach Belichick actually said in his rant was: “As you probably noticed, I’m done with the tablets. I’ve given them as much time as I can give them. They’re just too undependable for me. I’m going to stick with pictures … because there just isn’t enough consistency in the performance of the tablets, so I just can’t take it anymore. The many other critical in-game (emphasis added) communication systems, including the press box to the coaches on the field, the coach on the field to the signal caller or the coach-to-quarterback, coach-to-signal caller system, all have repeatedly failed for us on a regular basis.” (This was a sentiment supported by about half the league’s coaching staffs, according to multiple ESPN on air and online reports aired after the Belichick comments).
He added, “There are very few games that we play, home or away, day, night, cold, hot, preseason, regular season, postseason — it doesn’t make any difference — where there aren’t issues in some form or fashion with the communications or computer equipment.” (Based on the data reported by ESPN, USA Today, and others, that means that out of the total of 512 in-season games played by the league’s 32 teams, about 15 percent have no major issues — which means that 85 percent of the games or roughly 430 games per season have some major communications- or Surface tablet-related problems.)
What Belichick was referring to is the seemingly randomly selected mishmash of headsets in the helmets, wireless belt packs, the league proscribed Internet service connections, all of which are controlled by, approved for in-game use by, selected by and provided by the league from multiple manufacturers, including a well known major audio company in New England, whose logo is on coaching headsets. The various systems (from multiple vendors) are of course using an assortment of RF frequencies or wireless mic bands (the belt packs Belichick mentioned), without, it seems, anyone having done what every knowledgeable live sound company would do automatically — check every system for interference and channel availability at each game location of each game day.
Compounding the issue, Belichick and multiple other coaching staffs noted (again based on reports aired by ESPN and others) the fact that ‘this is all league equipment so we don’t have it during the week.’
I don’t know about you but logically speaking, is it remotely sensible given the HUGE dollars at stake in every game, every week, for every team, that they would have no opportunity to work with these systems all the time and be able to find the guaranteed problems and troubleshoot and correct them for each game BEFORE game day?
Is It Remotely Sensible That Users Have No Chance to Work With the Hardware Before It’s Critical?
But no — the teams only get the equipment a few hours before the game. Belichick pointed out “that’s the first chance our staff (and of course the opponents’ staff as well) has to test it. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. We hope that by game time it is working but more often it is not.”
That’s bad enough but he also pointed out that “during the game… (it is almost a sure bet that) something will happen and it has to be fixed.” That means every team’s tech coordinator and the venue staffs have to figure out, in real time, on national television, is it a battery, the particular player’s helmet, the battery on the coach’s pack or any one of perhaps 15 or 20 other failure options? Doesn’t that sound like a cardiac event-inducing situation — and add in the league’s equity rule that mandates that if one team’s gear drops dead, then the other team’s system has to be shut down to maintain “a level playing field.” This rule affects some but not all systems.
How that particular concept was created remains a mystery to the teams and their staffs, but it is ‘league policy,’ without any explanation. It just is.
Are you wondering by this point just what incredibly naive rules committee or league executive approved this idea and continues to allow this situation to exist? I sure am! (For the full Belichick rant video, go here.)
Did anyone at the top ask the people who have to use these systems to test them out in advance or work with the multiple vendors to insure compatibility, reliability and user functionality? Doesn’t seem that they did, does it?
Unfortunately, this scenario is all too familiar to buyers and end users in the corporate, commercial and hospitality worlds, and our industry is, in many ways, responsible. We don’t determine if what we are providing will work for the people it is intended to serve. This is why so many of the folks that all our glossy digital technology is intended to help end up resenting it at best and hating it all too often.
So Many of the Folks That All Our Glossy Digital Technology Is Intended to Help End Up Resenting It
Think about for a moment, or perhaps have a sleepless night digesting the ramifications. How often have you heard stories about how long it takes to launch a video call or meeting, or the educator who can’t figure out how to use the slick new lectern AV control touch panel with multiple soft keys, or the sales presenter whose 2016 laptop won’t interface with the 2014 presentation system, because the connectors don’t match up?
We are creating a whole generation of users/buyers/decision makers who come into the process with significant doubts and a huge lack of trust in what we say or do. Why? Because we fail to do something so basic, it should be blatantly obvious. ASK the user/buyer about the design and hardware upfront. Provide them a hands-on demonstration to find out if what you propose will actually work for them in their specific situation. Is that educator or company CEO comfortable with that touch panel controller or confused and uneasy enough to not want to use it?
No one running or managing an organization wants to be or can afford to be apprehensive about their infrastructure.
Belichick represents essentially every customer. He might not be the person you’re selling to or the person you’re training. But he’s the person behind the scenes who’s angry when the system isn’t intuitive enough for him to use — or when it simply doesn’t work.
While that infamous quote about AV, that it’s “the stuff that doesn’t work,” is simply not true, it is the stuff that requires ongoing support. The NFL, based on Belichick’s description, is doing its teams a disservice by not providing embedded service technicians to quickly address potential issues with systems that, for them, are mission critical. Are you making the same mistake with your customers, by not offering ongoing service and support up-front as part of the whole project package?
Too many AV integration firms are doing their customers a disservice when they take “no” for an answer when it comes to service contracts. You know, and the customer will rapidly discover, how mission-critical video communication is for most organizations. The powerful folks behind the scenes that depend on it, like Coach Belichick, will be more than willing to pay for that peace of mind.
And just one more thing… it should be pointed out that Microsoft, which generates on average 85 billion in annual revenue, has committed a tiny fraction of its earnings, a reported $400 million over five years, to have its tablets featured in the NFL. Even so, the company can’t be amused to hear Belichick’s stoic condemnation.
Perhaps, though, Redmond should look on the bright side. At least they haven’t blown up. Leave a Comment
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We Have More ISE Show Coverage Than Anyone – Even More Than ISE Themselves!We just returned from Amsterdam having covered the Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) Show via our rAVe [NOW] LIVE show coverage. No other publication covers shows this way and it means that we shot videos of EVERY new product launched at ISE — as well as write stories on virtually every new HomeAV and ProAV piece of gear and technology there. And it’s all available on one comprehensive, dedicated (ISE-only) website here.
We shot 1,300+ product videos, recorded over 50 podcasts, wrote up more than 300 news stories and blogs and even shot 2,100+ photos of the show floor. No one, not even ISE themselves, has this much show coverage and we hope you find it helpful! Here are just a FEW of the highlights:
There are over 1,000 more new products here on our website so be sure to check it out. Leave a Comment
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Dan Dugan Sound Design Announces New Automixer at ISE Dan Dugan Sound Design has introduced the Model E-3A, an automatic microphone mixing controller with AES digital I/O. The E-3A is designed to connect to standard mixing consoles via insert points, making it a versatile and useful tool for sound engineers who frequently manage multiple microphones at live events such as corporate meetings or governmental sessions.
The Model E-3A replaces the prior Model E-3. The new version incorporates a bright OLED front panel which is used for automix gain display, management of six matrix mixing buses, and other control functions. The E-3A accommodates 16 channels of AES I/O at 48kHz or 96kHz, and may be easily linked to other Dugan digital mixers for system expansion. Alternatively, users may utilize AES and ADAT I/O simultaneously for a maximum of 32 channels at 48kHz.
As with all other Dugan automixers, the Model E-3A may be controlled from the product’s front panel, the Dugan Control Panel for Java (supplied free), the updated Dugan Control Panel for iPad, and/or the Dugan Model K Control Surface. The front panel version of the Dugan Control Panel is operated by navigation keys and a rotary encoder for setting values.
Dan Dugan is the inventor of the automatic microphone mixer. His gain-sharing technology is widely recognized throughout the professional audio and broadcast industries for creating the best possible mix of live microphones. The Dugan Speech System provides fast, transparent cross-fades without upcutting, choppy sound or shifts in background noise. Transitions between talkers are smooth and consistent, no matter how many mics are open.
More information will be here once the product is posted on Dan Dugan’s website. Leave a Comment
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Christie Adds 4K20 Projector to Boxer Line With 20,000 Lumens BrightnessChristie is expanding its Boxer line with the new 3DLP Christie Boxer 4K20 projector. It offers 4K resolution while maintaining the same small and rugged design as the rest of the Boxer product line. Suitable for rental stagers who don’t need the 30K brightness that comes with the Boxer 4K30, the Boxer 4K20 features 20,000 lumens and an updated, simplified GUI.
The High Bandwidth Multi-Input Card (HBMIC) in the Boxer 4K20 provides a variety of connections for high bandwidth 4K signals and allows for 4K@60Hz over a single cable using 12G-SDI, HDMI or DisplayPort. The HBMIC also adds direct fiber input capability for use with a Christie Link transmitter that sells separately or as part of a bundle. All inputs offer preview capability and fast synchronizing or switching between inputs.
The Christie Boxer 4K20 ships in February. All the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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norxe Has Coming Out Party With P1 Projector at ISE norxe, the new projector company from the team that brought projectiondesign (now part of Barco) to market some dozen or so years ago, has made its product debut now with the new P1 — a single-chip DLP LED projector that’s available in two native resolutions WQXGA (2560×1600) and WUXGA (1920×1200). Brightness depends on resolution (2,500 to 4,200 ANSI Lumens) and it’s spec’d to have an 8000:1 contrast ratio. Using all-glass lenses, there are four options available from 0.8 to 1.6:1 and the projector is LED light driven.
Inputs include two DVI ports, one DisplayPort and one HDMI; control is either LAN or RS232. The P1 projector uses NO moving parts such as phosphor wheels and color wheels as used in laser phosphor products; it’s actually all solid state.
According to norxe Head of Business Development Henning Kirchner, the target markets for the P1 are simulation, virtual reality, augmented reality, control rooms and medical and visitor attractions.
Their EMEA and worldwide debut will happen next week in Amsterdam at the annual ISE show (in the Dome Projection stand in Hall 12/N44) and here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Extron Quantum Ultra Modular 4K Videowall Processor Ships Extron has announced the availability of the Quantum Ultra, a modular 4K videowall processor with high-performance scaling and windowing technology for a wide range of applications. The Quantum Ultra features the Extron Vector 4K 4:4:4 scaling engine and 400 Gbps HyperLane video bus capable of carrying a multitude of high-resolution sources for unmatched real-time performance. A single processor can support multiple videowalls with mixed resolutions and screen orientations, providing flexible system design with minimal complexity and cost. Portrait and landscape output support, output overlap, and mullion compensation provide compatibility with nearly any display technology. RS-232 and Ethernet interfaces provide direct connections for control systems.
Quantum Ultra utilizes a modular card-frame architecture that can be populated with input and output cards selected to match source and display requirements. Multiple card frames can be configured and operated as a single system to accommodate any size videowall. Quantum Ultra can accommodate a mixture of display devices with varying resolutions. Features such as output overlap, mullion compensation, and output rotation provide compatibility with current and future display devices.
The future-ready Extron HyperLane bus delivers real-time performance unattainable by other videowall processors. It has a maximum throughput of 400 Gbps, sufficient to simultaneously carry more than twenty 4K/60 sources with 4:4:4 chroma sampling. It also possesses the bandwidth required to support evolving signal formats, such as 8K, and the higher resolutions, high dynamic range — HDR, greater color depth, and expanded color gamut these signals will provide.
Sources can be windowed and positioned anywhere on the video display. Static image files such as logos and maps can be stored locally on the Quantum Ultra, and displayed with full keying and alpha channel support. Internally generated clocks can be presented in a variety of time formats, in multiple time zones. The integrated VNC client can decode multiple simultaneous VNC server streams for presentation on the videowall. Custom color borders can be applied to any window, with support for rounded corners, drop shadows, flashing and transparency.
Quantum Ultra was designed for continuous operation in mission-critical environments. Redundant, hot swappable Extron EverLast power supplies, dual IEC power connections, a write-protected, solid-state operating system drive, and secure communication protocols, ensure system redundancy, security and stability.
Quantum Ultra setup and preset configuration are performed using Extron VCS — Videowall Configuration Software. System configuration is broken down into logical tasks, such as wall configuration, source setup, preset design, and EDID Minder for simplified integration. Online and offline editing allows creation and configuration of systems with or without an attached processor. Familiar editing controls streamline layering, aligning, and sizing of source windows. With an intuitive workflow and familiar interface, VCS provides efficient configuration of any Extron 4K videowall processor.
This intuitive application simplifies configuration of even the largest and most complex systems. Settings and preset changes within the software are automatically synchronized and stored on the videowall processor, facilitating direct RS232 or Ethernet connection of remote control systems to the Quantum Ultra card frame.
Here are the specs. Leave a Comment
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AKG Debuts New AKG HC644 and LC617 Hands-Free Microphones HARMAN Professional Solutions today introduced the AKG HC644 head-worn and LC617 lavalier microphones for presentation and speech applications. The new microphones are directly compatible with all AKG body-pack wireless transmitters and are adaptable to most popular wireless systems, making them ideal for presentations in classrooms, lecture halls and multiuse event facilities of any size.
AKG HC644 is a head-worn miniature condenser microphone with a slim headband, and LC617 is a clip-on omnidirectional lavalier mic with rotating clip. RF shielding prevents electromagnetic interference such as the crowded 2.4 GHz frequency, cell phones and other high-power wireless devices from ruining the signal. The built-in MicroDot connector allows each mic to be used with a variety of connection types, as well as all major wireless microphone systems.
Also the AKG HC644 and LC617 are designed to use thinner cables and have more mounting options that enable users to hide the cable and mount the microphone quickly and easily. The moisture-resistant design deflects precipitation and the presenter’s perspiration away from the mic using a protective wire-mesh layer. They are available in black and beige color options.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Clear-Com Shows Dante-Enabled Interface Card Clear-Com has announced that it will launch a Dante interface card for the Eclipse-HX matrix (E-Dante64-HX) at ISE 2017. The card, which is compatible with Eclipse HX-Omega, Median and Delta matrix systems, supports Dante and is AES67 compatible, allowing users to transport up to 64 channels of high quality audio to multiple Dante-enabled devices using standard Ethernet network infrastructure.
The E-Dante64-HX Interface Card provides Eclipse HX with 16, 32 or 64 channels of low latency, high quality AoIP interconnection. It supports all standard sample frequencies for professional use, including a 96kHz/32-channel option. Other features include:
- channel quantity, health and sample rate indicators
- primary and secondary RJ-45 or fiber connections
- port label data exchange to intercom panel keys
- up to 64 ports per card; maximum of seven cards per frame
- supports third party AES67 interfaces
The E-Dante64-HX Interface Card will be available this month. Here are all the tech specs. Leave a Comment
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ASL Launches Enchorus Dante-Based Audio Network With Integrated Mixing for Live Stage DeploymentsASL Intercom, a Riedel company, today announced the launch of Enchorus, the Dante-based audio network for AV professionals. Enchorus offers a scalable Dante solution for live stage applications, production studios and other pro-AV installations.
Each of the four modules in the Enchorus series was designed specifically for the stage and guaranteed synchronization even across multiple switches. With various AES3 and analog audio inputs and outputs, the modules are ideal for feeding analog and digital power amplifiers, connecting effects devices in a side rack, monitoring, press feeds and many other uses.
Each Enchorus module is equipped with two Ethernet ports for building redundant network paths or for daisy chaining, an integrated 16×16 mixer, a four-band equalizer on each input and output and redundant power. The modules also include rubber bumpers that allow them to be stacked on stage easily and safely or, as an option, multiple units can be conveniently rack mounted.
The flagship Enchorus ENC 1201 provides eight high-quality mic inputs with a maximum input level of +24 dBu, more than 152dB of dynamic range, a built-in mixing engine and an internal four splitter with individual level, phase and filter settings.
Configuring Enchorus modules is simple and intuitive via an integrated web interface. Units connected to the network can be named and configured easily, all the way down to filter settings and device configurations can be stored, imported and exported to reduce setup time for installations of any size.
Here’s more information. Leave a Comment
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Delvcam Debuts 4K Compatible Camera Top Monitor with On-Screen Audio Meter
Delvcam just added a new 4K compatible HDMI monitor to their camera-top series that includes an on-screen audio meter. The DELV-HD7-4K 7-inch monitor is designed for video production with a compact, less than one-inch wide and lightweight construction, full HD 1920×1200 resolution, 1200:1 contrast and multiple image control functions. The embedded audio meter displays dB and peaking and an HDMI cable lock ensures continual video transmission.
More information is here. Leave a Comment
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Sennheiser Expands TeamConnect Set Tray MAt ISE 2017 Sennheiser is expanding its range of dedicated business products with two new conferencing solutions: The TeamConnect Wireless Set Tray M offers Sennheiser’s innovative wireless conferencing solution in a new smaller configuration for up to 12 participants. The all-new SL Boundary 114-S DW microphone — part of their SpeechLine family of speech-dedicated microphones, with a fully wireless microphone that ensures effortless room set up and cable-free charging.
The TeamConnect Wireless Set Tray M is a more compact configuration — with two rather than four satellites and is designed for meeting rooms and conferences for up to 12 participants. The new Set Tray M now offers two portable satellites that can be charged with its stationary charging and docking tray. The system delivers multiple connectivity options with any smartphone, laptop or PC via Bluetooth, USB or 3.5-millimeters jack — brilliant flexibility to cater for a broad range of Unified Communications demands.
Dedicated to speech, the new SL Boundary 114-S DW extends the capability of the TeamConnect conferencing system with a wireless solution. The cable free microphone is easily adapted to any conference setting, while its wide coverage ensures that conference participants don’t need to speak directly into or even sit close to the microphone as it automatically picks up and enhances the voices of speakers’ in the room.
The SL Boundary 114-S DW also offers the simplicity of wireless charging and can be charged with Sennheiser’s recently-launched CHG 2W wireless charging solution. The CHG 2W uses inductive power transmission to provide convenient wireless charging for two mobile devices simultaneously. The SL Boundary 114-S DW can also be charged via USB.
All of Sennheiser’s ISE launches are here. Leave a Comment
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MC2 Audio Debuts Delta Series Amplifiers MC2 Audio has launched six models in a new Delta Series of networkable audio processing power amplifiers. Incorporating XTA’s 96kHz DSP, MC2 Audio says the line are DSP-enabled and have three input options: analog, AES3 and Audinate’s Dante networked audio. The units have four inputs and eight outputs and four of the outputs driving the internal power amplifier channels and four available via analog XLR outputs on the back panel. The AUX outputs can be used to drive additional non-DSP Delta amplifiers and can also be made available as outputs to a Dante network. DSP enabled models offer Ethernet, USB and RS485 remote connectivity. Remote control is via their DeltaDirect iPad app and via the industry standard AudioCore platform.
In addition, there are four non-DSP versions that all have Dante networking (a four channel 96kHz Dante input card) allowing the amplifier input sources to be switched between analog and Dante audio. This option adds flexibility, allowing non-DSP Delta amplifiers to be incorporated into any centrally processed Dante audio network where the amplifiers do not require local processing.
You can see the entire line here. Leave a Comment
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DENON Debuts the DN-500R Solid State Recorder
The DN-500R is a solid state audio recorder in a 1 RU chassis that includes an OLED display, SD/SDHC and USB media recording as well as playback and is aimed at houses of worship, education and lecture recording. The DN-500R has analog balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs as well as broadcast-grade AES/EBU digital inputs and a switching power supply for worldwide usage. Not only can audio be captured to an SD/SDHC card up to 24-bit/96kHz, but the front-panel mounted USB port allows for the acquisition of audio as well. And the two record mediums can be used simultaneously with the new Dual Record feature, ideal for conferences that need to have the audio immediately or in applications where proper capture must be ensured. Additionally, the Relay Record feature can extend record times by switching to the other media when the primary memory is full. A front panel USB keyboard port allows for naming of files while a recording is happening and control. Full control can also be achieved by the on-board RS-232c serial connection for integrated systems by AMX or Crestron and the GPIO port allows instant triggerable access to many features, including the DN-500R’s 20 assignable hot start playback files. Recordings can be edited directly on the device or marked with EDLs for later review. When imported to the included DMP Mark Editor Software (Windows only), those marks come with the file, ensuring instant access to points of interest. And not only is the DN-500R the perfect standalone audio recorder, but it is a rock-solid audio playback device making it an affordable and appropriate solution for just about any audio installation. Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Sennheiser Debuts New Version of Control Cockpit
Sennheiser has announced a new version of its Control Cockpit software suite. Now, the latest version, 1.1.0, now includes wider language support with English, French, Spanish and German localization. The Sennheiser Control Cockpit is the central software for easy handling, control and maintenance of the entire SpeechLine Digital Wireless system. Control Cockpit offers network-based monitoring and remote control that can be accessed on any platform via a web browser. It provides a continuous, global dashboard overview of all network enabled SpeechLine Digital Wireless devices, shows status information at a glance and makes setting adjustments for one or multiple devices (bulk editing).
It also now supports the CHG 4N Network Charger, providing 360° monitoring of the status of microphones, even while they are not in use. Naturally, the latest version also offers support for the growing SpeechLine Digital Wireless family, including the SL Tablestand 133-S DW and SL Tablestand 153-S DW, recently launched transmitter types dedicated to podium discussions, speeches and lectures as well as ad hoc press conferences, and in addition will support the forthcoming SL Boundary 114-S DW wireless boundary layer microphone for remote conferencing and boardrooms. Control Cockpit version 1.1.0 is available here. Leave a Comment
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Electro-Voice Debuts X12-125F Flying Subwoofer for X-Line
Electro-Voice just announced the latest member of the X-Line Advance line-array loudspeaker family: the X12-125F flying subwoofer — a dual 15-inch system is equipped with high-output EV-engineered transducers delivering 9600 W output. The X12-125F features the family’s Integrated Rigging System for quick, secure and seamless deployment in arrays, and is sonically matched to the other members of the family: X1 and X2 (high-performance) full-range models, and the X12-128 ground-stacking dual 18-inch subwoofer. The X12-125F can also be used in ground-stacked configurations as well as fixed installations including live performance venues and houses of worship. Its very compact, lightweight 18-ply Baltic birch enclosure is finished in EVcoat for superior durability.
The X-Line Advance family currently consists of two-way vertical line-array loudspeaker elements providing 90- or 120-degree horizontal coverage, the powerful dual 18-inch X12-128 ground-stacking subwoofer, the TG7 system power and processing rack, and a complete package of rigging and transport materials. The new X12-125F subwoofer complements existing X-Line Advance models in a wide range of possible system configurations:
- Flown three-way system with X1 or X2 mains and X12-125F as subwoofer
- Flown four-way system with X1 or X2 mains, with X12-125F flown next to mains in LF mode and X12-128 as ground-stacked subwoofer
- Flown three-way system with X1 or X2 mains and X12-125F above mains as subwoofer in single flown array
- Flown four-way system with X1 or X2 mains and X12-125F above mains in LF mode in single flown array with X12-128 ground stacked as subwoofer
- Ground-stacked three-way configuration with X12-125F as the base of the ground stack in subwoofer mode, with X1 or X2 above as mains
- Ground-stacked four-way configuration with X12-125F as the base of the ground stack in LF mode, with X1 or X2 above as mains and X12-128 as center mono subwoofer array
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Epson Launches New Pro L-Series Laser Projectors at ISEEpson has announced the latest Pro L-Series large venue laser projectors. The Pro L-Series come in five new models ranging from 12,000 to 15,000 lumens of color brightness and white brightness plus WUXGA and SXGA+ resolution. Leveraging 3LCD technology, the Pro L-Series integrate a laser-light source with an inorganic phosphor wheel in combination with inorganic LCD panels.
Designed for rental and staging, as well as permanent large venue installations, the expanded Pro L-Series feature a new remote image capture with a built-in camera for diagnostic purposes, flexible connection options, high native contrast ratio and 360-degree installation and projection at any angle. With Epson’s 4K Enhancement technology, which shifts each pixel diagonally by 0.5 pixels to double the resolution, the projectors accept 4K input and enhance a 1080p signal to surpass Full HD image quality. The new Pro L-Series is also compatible with Epson’s selection of lenses, which is expanding to include a new ultra-short throw option.
The Epson Pro L-Series will be available in fall 2017, with pricing announced prior to launch. The projectors come with a limited warranty of three years or 20,000 hours. All the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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RME Announces Fireface UFX II RME Audio AG just introduced the new RME Fireface UFX II audio production interface. The inclusion of DURec (Direct USB Recording) and RME’s low latency hardware and driver designs, the Fireface UFX II is for home studios and commercial audio production facilities.
With capacity for 60 audio channels (30 input and 30 output), support for sampling frequencies upward of 192 kHz, and the flexibility provided by USB connectivity, the new Fireface UFX II is aimed at recording, mixing and monitoring applications.
The Fireface UFX II offers flexibility that enables the interface to fit into a myriad of production environments. Analog, ADAT, AES, SPDIF and USB 2 are all standard on the Fireface UFX II. It handles: 12 analog, 16 ADAT, and 2 AES for 30 channels input and 30 channels output.
A new PAD-free mic circuit design with +18 dBu maximum input level and 75 dB gain range provides operation for the most demanding recording environments. Further, new low impedance, high power phones outputs (2 ohms) with +19 dBu maximum output level provide ample output power and volume on any headphones, high or low impedance.
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Panasonic Ships 27K Lumen 4K 3-Chip DLP ProjectorDesigned for live events, rentals and staging applications, the Panasonic PT-RQ32K is spec’d to be a 27,000 lumens 3-chip DLP projector that’s native 5120×3200 resolution. The 240 Hz projector incorporates Panasonic’s pixel-shifting quad pixel drive technology and includes various optional lenses for permanent and rental applications. Panasonic claims the need for custom mounting-frames has been eliminated with frame-free stacking or eye-bolt rigging, reducing overall weight for transportation and easy installation of temporary multi-projection mapping projects. A laser light source and an original heat-resistant phosphor wheel design maintain consistent image quality, colour and brightness, particularly useful when using multiple projectors.
The RQ32K joins two high-brightness laser projectors with 31,000 lumens (centre) in WUXGA (PT-RZ31K) and SXGA+ (PT-RS30K). Here are all the detailed specs. Leave a Comment
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Barco Expands Its F-Series With New Rugged Laser Phosphor Projector Barco is expanding its F-Series projection portfolio for the ProAV market with a new rugged laser phosphor model. The F70 projector line has two models set for launch at ISE 2017 including a 4K UHD vision (3840×2160) and a WUXGA version (1920×1200) and up to 8,000 lumens. The F70 will be shipping starting in Q2 2017.
The F70 projector is designed for fixed installation in large continuously-running venues like museums, theme parks, auditoriums, and science centers. Barco says the line uses their Constant Light Output (CLOTM) functionality that they claim guarantees constant brightness and color for a long time span. Just like for the Barco F90 projectors, Barco Pulse processing is the beating heart of the F70. In addition to an intuitive user interface, Barco Pulse’s unique Single Step Processing (SSPTM) technology enables the F70 projector to achieve 4K Ultra High Definition (UHD) resolution in only one step. The F70’s laser phosphor light source provides a long lifetime of up to 60,000 hours and eliminates the need for lamp replacements.
You can see both versions here. Leave a Comment
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L-Acoustics Unveils Syva Segment Source at ISE 2017L-Acoustics has announced the launch of Syva, a new format, high power speaker system featuring six medium-frequency and three high-frequency speakers in a sleek J-shaped progressive curvature format. The groundbreaking transducer arrangement, called segment source, produces an H/V 140° x 26° (+5/-21°) directivity pattern that is optimized for exceptional surface coverage and 115 feet (35 meters) of throw.
Syva can be accompanied by the Syva Low high power subwoofer or Syva Sub infra extension to achieve a 142 dB max SPL. Its companion Syva Low enclosure features two K2-grade 12-inch drivers designed to provide low frequency contour and extended bandwidth down to 40 Hz. Similarly, Syva Sub features one KS28-grade 12-inch driver to further extend the bandwidth of the system in the infrasound domain down to 27 Hz. One LA4X amplified controller can drive up to four Syva enclosures.
Syva can be wall- or pole-mounted, as well as flown, or used alone with its baseplate. Alternatively, Syva can be rapidly mounted on top of Syva Low or Syva Sub using the AutoConnect plug-and-play audio and physical link. An RAL color program allows Syva to melt into any architecture.
The Syva system will be demo’d at L-Acoustics’ ISE booth, #7-X220, in Amsterdam. Go see it here. Leave a Comment
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Barco Intros Narrow-Bezel LCD Displays Barco just announced a new product in its super-narrow bezel LCD video wall portfolio, the OverView HVD5521. Designed for use in control rooms, the HVD features some unique innovations that boost reliability, lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), and minimize maintenance needs.
The new OverView HVD5521 now joins this portfolio, with a screen diagonal of 55” and a brightness of 700 cd/m². Its narrow total bezel width of only 1.8 millimeters (measured between screens) enhances the visual consistency of the video wall.
To counter the classic problem with color and brightness level shifts in LCD video walls, Barco says the new line has something they are calling Sense X, automatic color and brightness calibration system based on integrated color sensors. This technology automatically balances the video wall at all times, eliminating the need for expensive and time-consuming manual calibration.
In addition, an optional redundant external power supply automatically switches to a new unit if one should fail, eliminating downtime due to power supply failure. And because the power supply is located remotely, its maintenance can be performed without disturbing operations. The specs for the OverView HVD5521 are here. Leave a Comment
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beyerdynamic Launches New Version of TG 1000 with Dante beyerdynamic will be presenting a new version of the TG 1000 digital wireless system at the ISE 2017. This 24-bit system now has a Dante interface and can be integrated seamlessly into digital audio networks based on the popular Audinate solution. The TG 1000 dual receiver is equipped with a Dante network interface in the form of an RJ45 connector flanked by status LEDs on the back of the 19″ device (1 HU). The dual receiver’s analogue audio output also comes with a modern digital option — perfect connectivity guaranteed without inconvenient interfaces.
Dante transfers uncompressed digital audio data via standard IP networks; thus, interference-prone, inconvenient multi core copper cables are replaced with cost-effective Ethernet connections. With the help of clearly designed software, even complex networks can be configured with just a few clicks of a mouse. Dante is supported by numerous pro audio manufacturers and allows for effortless multi-channel signal exchange, with negligible latency, between hundreds of pro audio products available on the market.
The beyerdynamic TG 1000 wireless system has an impressive switching bandwidth of 319 MHz in the UHF range (470 to 789 MHz), guaranteeing long-term investment security and smooth operation across the globe. Operation is extremely intuitive thanks to the high-contrast OLED display, one button navigation and Chameleon software.
The total latency from transmitter to receiver is only 2.1 milliseconds. In optimal environmental conditions, the transition range can reach up to 300 meters. In a business environment, optional proprietary encryption ensures that sensitive information remains confidential.
Lavalier, neckworn and earhook microphones are available for use with the TG 1000 beltpack transmitter, and discerning instrumentalists appreciate the beyerdynamic Touring Gear instrument microphones. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Sony Adds More Laser-Phosphor Projector Models, Including Portable Ones Sony is expanding its range of laser light source (Z-Phosphor) projectors by introducing two new LaserLite models aimed at making laser technology more cost-effective for the installation market. Aimed at commercial applications, including classrooms and meeting rooms, the new VPL-PHZ10 (WUXGA) and VPL-PWZ10 (WXGA) projectors bring the benefits of laser technology — image quality, color reproduction and virtually zero-maintenance — to customers who previously may have only been able to experience lamp-based projection.
The new fixed wide zoom lens models provide users with a lower-cost, high-quality option for installing laser projections in rooms traditionally geared toward lamp-based technology. The new projectors’ light source have a total constant brightness of 4500 lumens for up to 12,000 hours depending on usage environment, enabling users to experience the projectors’ original level of image quality over five years in standard use, while achieving a maximum 5,000 lumens of brightness when the constant brightness mode is off.
With these two new introductions, Sony’s laser-based professional projector family now grows to a total of 11 models, with lumen levels starting at 2,000 and resolutions ranging from WXGA, WUXGA up to 4K.
The new projectors inherit many features from Sony’s existing laser models such as BrightEra 3LCD panel technology, which reproduces red, green and blue components of an image separately to ensure natural-looking and vivid colors. The new models are designed to deliver enhanced picture quality with features such as “Reality Creation,” a technology already in use by Sony’s home theater projection systems for high-end consumer entertainment. The Reality Creation engine analyzes and processes every input signal to refine detail, clarity and sharpness for naturally up-scaled images. This provides higher-resolution perspective, even in the lower-resolution WXGA series. The Contrast Enhancer feature expands the perceived dynamic range of the signal by refining light and dark areas of the image in real-time.
Sony’s laser light source means there’s no lamp that needs to slowly warm up or cool down, no lamp to limit tilt angle and no trade-off between high brightness and high resolution. The laser projectors are designed for up to 20,000 hours of maintenance-free operation, depending on the usage environment, which contributes to reducing users’ total cost of ownership.
Planned pricing and availability: VPL-PHZ10 (WUXGA), June, $3,000 and the VPL-PWZ10 (WXGA), August, $2,200. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Sharp Launches New 90″ LCD for Commercial Applications Sharp announces the launch of its new 90” Class (90 1/64” diagonal) PN-LE901 commercial LCD display. The PN-LE901 combines full-HD image quality and a thin profile with a built-in tuner. Businesses can easily manage the functionality of the PN-LE901 commercial LCD display due to its many user-friendly features. This includes a powerful RS232C command set, which permits flexible command and control capabilities from connected devices, three HDMI inputs to connect multiple HD sources including digital signage media player and cable boxes and built-in 20W speakers for superb sound to complement the breathtaking images.
Its USB port allows for displaying images and videos seamlessly and business owners will also benefit from optimal content control with added lockout features including IR Remote, Power, Channel, Volume, Input, OSD disable and LED disable. It also includes a unique, low-power Wallpaper Mode that displays virtually any image on the screen at a reduced light level, mirroring museum conditions so the screen blends beautifully into an installed environment.
The PN-LE901 commercial LCD display will be available for shipping in late February 2017. Here are the specs. Leave a Comment
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Denon Debuts White PodiumThe Lectern Active White is a portable audio lectern for multi-media presentations — designed for hotels, churches, conference rooms and convention centers. This all-in-one unit is loaded with professional features and convenient touches, all designed to make any public speaking or presentation engagement a snap. This product eliminates the need for separate tripod stands, bulky external powered speakers, mixers and having to run a maze of connection cables. With the Lectern Active, you’re always in control, with an easily-portable, easy-to-use solution.
A 200-watt peak amplifier driving four rugged 5 ¼-inch woofers and a horn-loaded high-frequency driver ensures the audience will hear every word and note of your presentation with lifelike clarity. A distortion-limiting circuit keeps the sound clean and clear at all times, while the simple-to-operate two-channel mixer allows you to select and combine different signal sources like a pro.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Barco Adds New Switcher to Event Master Line Barco has added a new switcher to its Event Master portfolio of screen management systems with an expansion unit. The Event Master Ex processor allows for linking the Ex with the Event Master processors (E2 or S3-4K), not only allows users to grow their input and output capacity but it enables them to expand the scaling and switching power of their entire system. When linked with a fiber optic cable the Ex can be in a different location than the E2 or S3-4K, up to 100 meters away, acting as a true stage box. The new Ex processor is currently shipping.
And, two Event Master Ex processors with up to two input cards and two output cards can be connected to each E2/S3-4K link connection. This enables eight inputs and eight outputs per link connection. For the E2, this means up to 32 additional inputs and outputs and for the S3-4K, this adds up to 16 inputs and outputs — all without adding another full-sized processing chassis. What’s more, the Ex allows signals to or from a stage to be concentrated via the Ex processor and transported over a single, bi-directional fiber to the Host unit. In this way it acts as a unique stage box application that doesn’t leave Event Master users flying blind. The Event Master system has been designed from the beginning to accommodate the Ex processor, allowing inputs and outputs on the Ex to be visible in the Host unit’s multi-viewer.
Event Master features modular I/O cards and software that can be used across the entire product family. So, video professionals can flexibly configure their systems and service their units in the field. This also makes cabling and systems simpler. And, as they not only bring the latest interfaces, but new features as well, the cards make the Event Master range future-proof.
The system can be configured to provide a 4×4 scaling matrix of HD sources, or scaling and converting to/from 4K@60p. Users can link up to two stand-alone processors for an 8×8 HD or 2×2 4K60p scaling matrix.
Here are the technical details. Leave a Comment
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Panasonic Debuts New Portable Projection Lineup Panasonic has announced two new portable projector series, including a new short throw range, offering longer lifespans, higher brightness and wireless capability. The interactive 3LCD, PT-TW351R series is spec’d at 10,000 hours maintenance-free operation in ECO Mode and comprises four short throw models, each capable of producing an 80-inch image from as little as 75 cm away. The series consists of two WXGA models (PT-TW351R and PT-TW350) each with 3,300 lumens of brightness and two XGA models available in 3,800 lm (PT-TX410) and 3,200 lumens (PT-TX320). The projectors feature an increased contrast ratio of 16,000:1 for clear and crisp image and text reproduction.
The series allows presenters to notate a projected image using either the optional interactive pen or Panasonic whiteboard software.
In addition, Panasonic is also launching the light weight PT-LB423 series. Weighing just 2.9 kg, the six-model series delivers an impressive 3,600 lumens of brightness at WXGA resolution (PT-LW373) or up to 4,100 lm at XGA (PT-LB423) for superb image quality. A manual 1.2x zoom lens enables a wide range of projection distances for convenience.
Both new projector series feature a wired LAN terminal and a USB input for the optional wireless module (ET-WML100). They support the playback of images via a built-in USB media player, while a second USB terminal offers plug-and-play audio. Media playout is possible from Presenter Light software for Windows PCs, or from the VueMagic Pro app for iOS and Android.
The PT-TW351R series and PT-LB423 series ship in January 2017. Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe Rental [and Staging] 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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A little about me: I graduated from Journalism School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (where I am adjunct faculty). I’ve been in the AV-industry since 1987 where I started with Extron and eventually moved to AMX. So, I guess I am an industry veteran (although I don’t think I am that old). I have been an opinionated columnist for a number of industry publications and in the late 1990s I started the widely read KNews eNewsletter (the first in the AV market) and also created the model for and was co-founder of AV Avenue, which is now known as InfoComm IQ. rAVe [Publications] has been around since 2003, when we launched our original newsletter, rAVe ProAV Edition.
Everything we publish is Opt-in — we spam NO ONE! rAVe ProAV Edition is our flagship ePublication with what we believe is a reach of virtually everyone in the ProAV market. rAVe HomeAV Edition, co-published with CEDIA and launched in February 2004, is, by far, the largest ePub in 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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