Volume 16, Issue 10.2 — May 23, 2018
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Editorial Editorial Editorial
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Control & Signal Processing Projection Audio Unified Collaborative Conferencing Cables, Cases, Furniture, Mounts, Racks, Screens & Accessories Digital Signage
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InfoComm Comes (or Goes) Home
By Gary Kayye rAVe Founder
AVIXA is going out of its way to say that its new Integrated Life @ InfoComm isn’t competitive to the industry’s defacto HomeAV show, CEDIA. But, I call bulls*t.
First, look at this.
That’s basically the what’s new at InfoComm page — letting everyone know what all the new things AVIXA added to the industry’s top ProAV show. And, note that under the header Integrated Life @ InfoComm, the word “home” appears along with the details of the expanded show.
In fact it reads, “We’re expanding the show to include more technologies for smart buildings, homes and spaces where audio, video, control systems and content intersect.”
That says home. They mean home.
First, the backstory.
CEDIA, the association, sold CEDIA, the show, to Emerald Expositions as first reported last January here. In case you don’t know, CEDIA, the show, has historically been the world’s preeminent high-end residential show — while its giant cousin, CES, garners all the attention as the world’s best and biggest consumer electronics or tech show — it’s where all the new gaming systems are launched, where the new TV tech is launched and where nearly everything electronic you use in your home is debuted.
CEDIA, on the other hand, is focused on higher-end residential systems like whole-home audio, smart homes, home theaters and high-quality AV systems.
But, to be perfectly frank, CEDIA, the show, in recent years has lost its compass, in addition to losing Crestron as an exhibitor. In my view, the show has slowly become a hybrid between companies that get lost at CES each year — small DIY app companies and companies trying to copy SONOS — and a high-end cinema theater show. (Note that I didn’t say “theater.” The use of “cinema” is intentional as it’s supposed to delineate between a CEDIA-based projector products and a CES-based projector products. But, even the “cinema” projector companies are at CES now.)
If you find this all confusing, therein lies the problem. It is confusing. And, no one at CEDIA, the show, seems to know what they are, what they want to be or who the right audience is. For years, it was THE home theater and home automation show — it was THE show you’d go to if you did high-end home integration. But, as Apple, Amazon, Google and now Netflix have decimated the traditional home theater profit-centers, CEDIA has straddled the high-end $1,800 tuner market exhibiting next to a start-up the $1.99 home control app company.
CEDIA is lost.
Enter InfoComm (the show). AVIXA pitched this Integrated Life @ InfoComm campaign by casually dropping into a podcast I had with AVIXA CEO Dave Labuskes the last day of InfoComm last summer. It was intentional. Barely anyone noticed, but I asked him about it off-air afterwards. Dave went out of his way to tell me that it wasn’t going to be a mini-CEDIA at InfoComm in future years, but let’s be honest: Integrated Life @ InfoComm is a mini-CEDIA. And, more power to them.
Now, go here.
Left side. See it?
Yep, InfoComm is going to compete with CEDIA, the show. No doubt about it. And, they’ll be successful.
And what does CEDIA, the association, think? Well, this is where things get interesting. The association, technically, doesn’t have any ownership of the show anymore — remember, Emerald Expositions does. And, interestingly enough — in case you didn’t know this — CEDIA and AVIXA (the association that owns the InfoComm show) co-own the ISE show in Amsterdam together. So, they already partner on a show — a big-ass AV show in Europe. Oh, and that show has both a HomeAV and a ProAV side. Hmm.
So, the USA is getting ready to see InfoComm become the ISE of America. InfoComm will slowly add more and more home AV technology to their programs, their expositions and their special events and we’ll all have to wait to see what becomes of CEDIA, the show.
The only real question is how long AVIXA will continue to deny they are competing with CEDIA? Leave a Comment
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InfoComm: A Wild Kingdom
By Joel Rollins rAVe Columnist
When I was a kid, “family television” meant television to be watched by the family, and not television about families rehearsing for their court date or climbing over each other’s bodies to get to the throne. No, “family television” meant “Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom,” hosted by noted zoologist Marlin Perkins. Each week, the show followed a predictable course: Marlin Perkins would remain in the studio while his intrepid assistant, Jim Fowler, trekked into the wilds. Marlin did the voiceover and instructed Jim on how to escape the clutches of the dangerous creatures found in the wilderness.
So, as I prepare to go off to yet another InfoComm show, I thought I would do our readers the same favor, and help them to navigate the dangers of the dense, artificially misted jungles of Las Vegas.
Welcome to InfoComm’s Wild Kingdom.
First, as you leave the oddly-themed and garishly decorated basecamp of your casino hotel, you are likely to encounter two of the convention jungle’s parasitic pests: the Lobby Lizard (lurkus longwindicus) and the Common Barfly. (Note: When encountering a lobby lizard, do not look it directly in the eye. This encourages their aggressive tendencies and they might approach you.) In the lobby, it is also possible that you will encounter one of the jungle’s newer lifeforms, the Preening Retweeter (repeatus adnauseous). The Retweeter is harmless, having become mesmerized by its own smartphone.
Brush off these minor pests. We are here for bigger game.
As you approach the show floor, it is likely that you will have to press your way through dense, slow-moving herds of Bewilderbeast (gawkus noobicus). Confused and seeking out others of their kind for strength in numbers, the Bewilderbeast is the new “end-user” life form introduced to the InfoComm Show Jungle as part of AVIXA’s marketing plan. This introduction of a new life form has altered the AV ecosystem forever. Once a rarity, Bewilderbeast herds now threaten to consume all available resources.
Press onward. You are nearing your first landmark: the main entrance. You can’t miss it. Not only is it surrounded by cascading video walls, it will often be circled by one or more sharp-eyed Order Hawks. You will be able to push safely pass them, as they are waiting for their favorite prey, the Yellow-Bellied Salesucker, who cannot resist the Order Hawk’s shrill cry of “Show Special… Show Special.”
As you venture onto the show floor, keep your eyes open for the wild Tchotchke Hog (teeshirtus grabimus). They roam the show jungle in small groups, and are often mistaken for domesticated beasts of burden because of the overstuffed tote bags they carry. Attempts have been made to tame the Tchotchke Hog, but they are considered too distractible for domestication, and are easily lured away by more shiny objects to put in their bag.
A distant cousin of the Tchotchke Hog is the Voracious Mintsnapper (a marsupial), who roams from booth to booth, filling its pouch with goodies. For your own safety, do not stand between the Mintsnapper and a bowl of Hershey’s Kisses.
The Selfie Bug might be spotted anywhere on the show floor. These strange creatures are quite harmless and can be distinguished by their awkward movements while attempting to position themselves to put their prey behind them. We are left to wonder what kind of natural selection created a creature that is obviously fascinated by its own plumage.
Maneuver carefully near the larger exhibits lest you encounter a Stripesuited Slick (pinstripus clingi). The slick attacks its prey by simply hanging on until the prey becomes tired, and gives up its credit card number. Stripesuited Slicks are mostly domesticated by the larger manufacturers, and are confined to their exhibits, but it is still possible to encounter a free-roaming slick. The buddy system is advised when you enter any area where free-roaming slicks have been reported, so that your buddy can extricate you with an “urgent message from the boss” should you be cornered by a slick.
A relatively new denizen of the jungle, always found near the VR exhibits, is the Blind Pointer. You are most likely to encounter this creature when it accidentally stumbles into you, a VR headset over its eyes, pointing and shouting at something that you cannot see.
Remember: At any time that you become lost, you can look for our version of the game warden — Show Management. Always recognizable in whatever brightly-colored plumage the execs forced them to wear, they can be an invaluable guide to the nearest watering hole, even if their estimate of the number of creatures coming into the jungle this year always seems a little high.
Finally, as you make your way to the exit, ignore the cries of the Order Hawks and their eager hatchlings: no, you don’t want to “experience a revolution in digital display.” You did that yesterday. It’s been a long safari, and there is a spot at the watering hole waiting for you back at basecamp.
Well, that’s all the time we have for this week’s show. And now for a word from our sponsors… Leave a Comment
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The Hard Truth about Soft Serve (Ices)
By Mark Coxon rAVe Blogger
Unless you’ve been in a hole the last few years, you most likely have noticed the increasing conversation in AV about software, managed services, and IP based signal distribution. Given all of the buzz and apparent end-user demand for all of the above, surprisingly, only a select few AV companies have turned the corner on one or all of these categories.
Why is that?
The truth is that selling soft services is hard.
It’s even harder if your business model relies on a 50/50 split between hardware sales and labor. And exponentially harder if it relies on hardware margins to mitigate losses that occur due to labor inefficiencies or poor job costing.
My theory is that three main things are stalling the evolution of AV from hardware to software and services.
- Business models — The reality is that businesses need to make money. The easiest way to do this is by collecting a high profit margin on a high priced item and then charging a premium price for installation of that gear. The software model flips that on its head. There is no high priced hardware and the software is typically sold on a subscription basis which still yields high margins but on a lower priced sale. The long term benefits are great, but the short term impact can be painful. Proliferation across a large number of clients is the only way to build the revenue stream back up to what it was in the hardware based business model, and that transition could be deadly if not managed well. No wonder some companies are gun shy.
- Sales Plans — The second reality here is that sales people are revenue driven creatures. Commissions and bonuses are paid on sales, and selling hardware produces big amounts of income at a time. But how does a salesperson get paid on a yearly subscription service? Even if the integrator can plan the transition, how motivated is the sales team to promote solutions that directly affect their own personal paychecks? Salespeople have families and bills just like everyone else, and for the company to move int a softer ecosystem, they have to be willing to man the front lines of that battle.
- Liability — Finally, many AV companies are not ready to assume liability for their customers computers and networks. I was at a trade show the other day where we loaded some software on a partner’s laptop to play content on one of the screens. He said, ” I’m glad you touched my computer because now everything that goes wrong with it for the next year will be your fault.” The client’s attitude could be that “if you touched it, then you broke it.” That’s scary. And if you think its a scary thought to be responsible for their individual PCs, you can multiply that anxiety when you start thinking about touching the whole corporate network. I once heard an integrator tell his team that they were watching video over IP but they did not want to sell it yet because they didn’t provide the switch and they didn’t want to touch it.
In my humble opinion, these are the three major things that need to be overcome in AV in order to realize the promise of software, managed services and IP based distribution.
The good news is that other industries may hold some clues how to do it and I’ll share those in my next blog!
Do you have thoughts on why software, service and IP have been slow to take off in AV? I’d love to hear them in the comments below. Leave a Comment
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Crestron Adds VTouch Keypad Featuring Cresnet ConnectivityCrestron announced today that, through its new partnership with Vitrea, the VTouch keypad featuring Cresnet connectivity is now a Crestron Connected devices. Crestron Connected devices can be connected to any home network using standard Ethernet cable. Crestron keypads deliver an advanced custom control solution as part of a complete Crestron smart home. The Vitrea VTouch keypad featuring Cresnet connectivity features a chic, modern design, with unique features including LED light identification, multi-press configuration and customizable glass panel designs.
The VTouch keypad featuring Cresnet connectivity is available in a variety of glass colors in standard or matte finish, or with customizable glass panels. Blue LED light surrounds the keypad to make it easy to locate in the dark. The LED light intensity is fully adjustable. Single and double gang models are available with one to 16 keys. Installation can be standard or flush mount.
The Cresnet bus is the communications backbone for Crestron keypads, along with many Crestron lighting controllers, shade motors, sensors, and other devices. Cresnet is a simple, yet flexible four-wire network that provides bidirectional communication and 24VDC power for Cresnet devices. Cresnet supports up to 252 keypads and other devices.
All the details are here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Intros IN1804 Series of 4K/60 Seamless Scaling Switchers Extron just launched the new IN1804, a series of compact four-input scalers that support HDMI 2.0b data rates up to 18 Gbps and incorporate the Extron-exclusive Vector 4K scaling engine with 4:4:4 chroma sampling and 30-bit internal video processing. Offering a host of features including seamless switching effects, logo keying, still image recall, and optional twisted pair input/output capability, the IN1804 Series scalers provide the performance and flexibility to support the most demanding presentation environments.
Two available IN1804 models provide signal extension over shielded twisted pair cable. The IN1804 DI includes a DTP2 twisted pair input that can receive signals from remote DTP and DTP2 transmitters mounted at a conference table, lectern or wall. The IN1804 DO has a DTP2 twisted pair output that can send signals to a DTP or DTP2 receiver mounted behind a flat panel display, above a ceiling mounted projector, or in other remote locations. DTP transmitters and receivers are available in compact, low-profile enclosures, plus wallplate and floorbox form factors to suit a range of professional environments.
In addition to supporting DTP endpoints, the IN1804 DI and IN1804 DO can be integrated into an XTP CrossPoint matrix switcher system. This is ideal for facility-wide AV system applications with a centralized AV signal distribution infrastructure, as well as several presentation spaces with local AV switching and processing. An IN1804 DI in a room can connect into an XTP CrossPoint matrix switcher in a central equipment rack or closet to receive shared AV resources, or a connected IN1804 DO can distribute a local presentation to several destinations in a facility.
Here are all the detailed specs on the IN1804. Leave a Comment
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KanexPro Debuts New Lineup of AV-over-IP Encoders and Decoders KanexPro has announced a new line of AV-over-IP Encoders and Decoders that will debut in booth C3944 at InfoComm 2018. The Network AV over IP Decoder and Receiver (EXT-NETAVKIT) is a set with one HDMI input, one local HDMI output with multiple phoenix connectors for audio output and a LAN (Ethernet) port with RS232 control port for by passing third-party devices. Users can decode IP audio and video up to 330 feet (100 meters) with low latency of 1.5 frames per millisecond with the EXT-NETAVTRX Decoder. Utilizing advanced H.264 compression algorithm, the EXT-NETAVTX Encoder transmits full HD 1080p/60 to HDMI-based displays. The EXT-NETAVTRX is HDCP compliant and can be paired with one to one, one to many or many to many EXT-NETAVTX Encoders creating a traditional matrix scheme of AV signals routing.
The EXT-NETAVKIT offers a configurable low-bandwidth H.264 matrix with what they are calling “lossless resolutions” up to 1920×1080@60fps. With the EXT-NETAVKIT, users can create a video wall or multi-view by adding multiple encoders and decoders to a single application. The EXT-NETAVTX (transmitter sold separately) offers one central control over web-based GUI to manage sources and displays. Featuring a built-in controller, the EXT-NETAVTX manages HDMI sources and display devices utilizing a web-based GUI, a mobile app or any third-party control system.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Extron XTP Systems Now Connect Directly to Canon Projectors
Extron has announced the certification of multiple Canon professional-grade projectors for direct connection and quick setup within XTP Systems. The twisted pair inputs on the Canon WUX5800, WUX6700, WUX5800Z, WUX6600Z, WUX7000Z and WUX7500 projectors can be set to be recognized as an XTP receiver. This enables video, audio, RS-232 control, and Ethernet signals to be transmitted directly to the device. Canon joins the many industry-leading display manufacturers offering commercial projectors and flat panel displays that have been certified to be connected directly to an XTP twisted pair transmitter for simple point-to-point installations or in combination with an XTP II CrossPoint or XTP CrossPoint matrix switcher for AV signal switching and distribution applications.
Extron XTP Systems provide a completely integrated switching and distribution solution for multiple digital and analog formats. They support local connectivity as well as extended transmission capability for sending video with resolutions up to 4K, audio, RS‑232/IR, and Ethernet up to 330 feet (100 meters) over shielded CATx cable and up to 10 kilometers (6.21 miles) over fiber optic cable. Each system is HDCP compliant, and delivers ultra-fast, highly reliable digital switching with Extron’s SpeedSwitch Technology. With hot swappable modular components, a wide selection of XTP transmitters and receivers, and advanced 24/7 system monitoring, XTP Systems are designed to provide continuous, trouble-free operation in the most critical applications.
For a complete list of Extron XTP Systems Certified Display Devices, go here. Leave a Comment
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Eiki Intros the EK-306U and EK-307W Meeting Room Projectors
Eiki International has debuted the EK-306U and EK-307W 3LCD meeting room projectors. The EK-306U offers 5,000 ANSI-lumens brightness and WUXGA (1920×1200) resolution while the EK-307W delivers 5,100 ANSI-lumens and WXGA (1366×768) resolution.
Common to both the EK-306U and EK-307W, are the projectors’ 10,000:1 contrast ratio, lens shift capabilities, with manual adjustments of up to 45 percent vertical and 10 percent horizontal, as well as corner keystone correction. Inputs include HDMI with MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link), two normal HDMIs, two VGA connectors, a 15-pin D-Sub connector for S-Video, plus one USB Type A connector (for Viewer) and a USB Type B port (for Display / Service). Audio In and Out are accessed via 3.5 mm mini-jack connectors as well as for the remote control In.
The EK-306U provides an X1.6 zoom lens with a short throw ratio of 1.07 – 1.75:1 while the EK-307W’s is 1.16 – 1.89:1.
All the specs can be found here. Leave a Comment
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Sennheiser Will Debut TeamConnect Ceiling 2 at InfoCommAt InfoComm 2018, Sennheiser is previewing the next generation of its ceiling microphone, TeamConnect Ceiling 2. The new ceiling array microphone, available from October 2018, will offer better audio quality for voice and video conferences using an automatic adaptive beamforming technology. This automatically focuses on the voice of a speaker in the room -‑ regardless of their position. TeamConnect Ceiling 2 will offer even greater versatility and interoperability with support for Dante networks and Power over Ethernet. It will be compatible with Sennheiser’s Control Cockpit software for efficient remote management, and offer remote configuration and monitoring via an open media control protocol (API), allowing for easy integration into media systems and camera control applications.
Designed for mid to large sized meeting rooms, TeamConnect Ceiling 2 can be installed into the ceiling to allow for flexible usage of a space. Unique on the market, Sennheiser’s adaptive beamforming technology automatically follows the active speaker’s voice letting people speak naturally — whether they are sitting, standing or moving around the room. It’s that simple, and is ready to use without complex configuration. Using 28 omni-directional microphone capsules integrated within the discrete ceiling array, TeamConnect Ceiling 2 claims to eliminate distracting ambient noise.
TeamConnect Ceiling 2 will also offer support for Sennheiser Control Cockpit, Sennheiser’s network control software. Providing a digital workflow for network enabled devices from Sennheiser, the remote software allows centralized administration, configuration and monitoring of one or multiple ceiling mics within the network. Accessible on any device via a browser, Sennheiser Control Cockpit makes TeamConnect Ceiling 2 installations effortless to manage. For integration into larger media control systems, integrators can make use of Sennheiser’s open media control protocol (API) to offer remote configuration, control and monitoring of the TeamConnect Ceiling 2.
Here are the specs. Leave a Comment
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Fulcrum Acoustic Announces FH15 Full-Range Coaxial Horn Product Line
Fulcrum Acoustic has launched its FH15 Full-Range Coaxial Horns. The FH15 Series’ two-way, coaxial horn systems with 15″ horn-loaded woofer and 4″ diaphragm compression driver provide precise pattern control to below 400 Hz, low frequency extension to 54 Hz and extremely high output for products of their size while using only a single amplifier channel.
FH15 Series systems’ large 4″ diaphragm compression driver enables operation at frequencies too low for smaller compression drivers to handle. This allows the high frequency (HF) horn to smooth the polar response of the low frequency section in the frequency range where the HF horn would otherwise cause shadowing. It also allows the compression driver to produce extreme sound pressure levels with an effortless sonic character.
FH1565 (60°x45°) and FH1596 (90°x60°) models are now available with a full complement of horns in development — here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Clear-Com to Debut E-IPA Connection Card for Eclipse HX Intercom Clear-Com will debut the E-IPA connection card at InfoComm 2018 — a high-density audio-over-IP connection card for the Eclipse HX digital matrix intercom family. Natively AES67 compliant and SMPTE2110-30 ready, the E-IPA card provides 64 streams of low-latency and high audio bandwidth connections for linking existing and new IP-based Clear-Com products. With this card, Clear-Com can deliver up to 256 IP ports in the Eclipse HX-Median and Omega systems, making it the highest-density matrix intercom system available on the market for optimizing communication needs.
The E-IPA card comes in 16, 32, 48, and 64-port options, and is compatible with Eclipse HX-Delta, Median and Omega modular systems allowing users to build an extremely dense network with a mix of connectivity options. Compared to other Audio/Intercom-over-IP connectivity options on the market, intercom users can optimize their intercom investment on Eclipse HX and conserve system card slots for other connectivity needs.
E-IPA is natively AES67 compliant and SMPTE2110-30 ready. For example, Clear-Com’s flagship FreeSpeak II wireless intercom system has an all-new AES67-based IP Wireless Transceiver (IPT): with up to 64 IP ports, the E-IPA card can support up to 64 IPTs and 64 FreeSpeak II wireless beltpacks on just one card over AES67 compliant IP networks.
Clear-Com’s E-IPA is here. Leave a Comment
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ProCo Sound to Show Latest Dante-Enabled AoD I/O Modules at InfoComm 2018
ProCo Sound is introducing its new Dante AoD I/O Modules for a simple connection to a Dante network while also providing studio-quality, low-latency audio, at this year’s InfoComm show (Booth C1734). ProCo is also showcasing two new Dante interface enclosure options for both mobile and fixed applications.
Built with uncomplicated designs and the highest quality A to D and D to A converters, ProCo’s AoD I/O Modules guarantee easy delivery of studio-quality, low-latency audio delivered through any analog source or Dante Network. The modules support 44.1, 48 and 96 kHz sampling rates and up to 24-bit depths.
Its latest modules include the AoDoM two-channel interface (AoD-FAN3-2XM) featuring one RJ45 Dante input and two Neutrik XLR analog outputs. Its rugged aluminum extrusion channels offer a durable solution for providing line level analog audio signals to output devices. It is designed with a 3-foot analog audio tail with black Neutrik XLR connectors. The AoDiMX4 four-channel interface is equipped with one Neutrik EtherCon Dante output and four Neutrik XLR analog inputs, while the AoDoMX4 four-channel interface has one Neutrik EtherCon Dante input and four Neutrik XLR analog outputs.
As with all ProCo’s Dante-enabled products, these latest interface solutions can be configured with Audinate’s free Dante Controller software. Users can automatically discover and configure device parameters such as device names, channel labels, signal routing, sample rates and latency. Power is supplied through a standard Ethernet cable via a Power over Ethernet (PoE) capable network switch or from a separate PoE injector circuit. Locking Neutrik EtherCon connectors ensure durability, performance and resilient cable strain relief.
ProCo is offering pro AV integrators two durable enclosure options for its Dante Interface hardware. ProCo’s new Drop Snake Boxes are a portable, handheld unit for audio transport, while its Dante Wall Plates can be easily installed into any established pro AV environment. Both chassis options offer the exact same functionality with differing rugged aluminum extrusion enclosures. Three configurations of two to four Neutrik analog XLRF inputs and/or XLRM outputs are available for each enclosure, along with one Neutrik EtherCon Dante input. Each module is designed with LED indicators, which can be configured to display the status of the user’s Dante ecosystem.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Alteros Expands GTX Series L.A.W.N. Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Wireless Microphone System with New Handheld Transmitters
Alteros has introduced two new handheld transmitters: the GTX24-HHP (performer handheld) and GTX24-HHB (broadcast handheld), along with a remote and network control platform for its GTX Series L.A.W.N. (Local Area Wireless mic Network) Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Wireless Microphone System.
The GTX Series L.A.W.N. UWB system is a broadcast/live performance solution that they claim offers immunity to radio frequency spectrum regulatory changes, bandwidth loss and channel crowding. The GTX L.A.W.N. UWB system is a digital 6.5 GHz solution that sets up without the need for frequency coordination, database registration, licenses or complicated support equipment.
The latest additions joining the GTX3224 control unit, GTX24 body-pack transmitter and GTX32 transceiver include the GTX24-HHP (performer handheld) and GTX24-HHB (broadcast handheld) microphone transmitters. The GTX24-HHP “performer”” version wireless handheld mic is intended for live performance applications and features a lightweight design which accepts popular thread-on microphone capsules using a 1.25″/28 thread pitch, allowing the performer to select the preferred microphone sound and performance from a wide range of manufacturers, including the new selection of Audio-Technica capsules. The GTX24-HHB “broadcaster” version wireless handheld mic includes additional features such as a dedicated “flag mount” section and incorporated “talkback button.” The GTX24-HHB also incorporates interchangeable microphone capsule mounts, allowing for maximum flexibility in sound and performance. Available this summer, the GTX24-HHP (performer) and GTX24-HHB (broadcast) handhelds will round out the Alteros GTX L.A.W.N system, making this wireless microphone system the ultimate in performance and flexibility.
The GTX Series system is currently available with three key components: the GTX3224 control unit, GTX24 body-pack transmitter and GTX32 transceiver. The GTX24-HHP (performer handheld) and GTX24-HHB (broadcast handheld) transmitters will be available in Q3 of 2018. No additional filters, combiners or distribution amplifiers are required.
The GTX3224 simultaneously supports up to 24 channels, an additional 24 channels of talkback audio and eight group assignment channels in just 3U of rack space. The unit features MADI, Dante and AES67 digital outputs that are all available simultaneously and allow for seamless integration with IP-based infrastructures. Fiber outputs support long-distance runs. The 7-inch front-panel touchscreen provides access to system settings, monitoring tools, performance reports and other controls.
Up to 32 GTX32 transceivers may be deployed, connecting to the GTX3224 over standard shielded Cat 5 cable, which is operational to 1,000 feet. The GTX Series system’s powerful management software maximizes operational efficiency, enabling users to set up and confirm operation of 32 transceivers and 24 transmitters in only a few hours.
The GTX24 body-pack transmitter is terminated with a standard LEMO connector, and may be operated with the user’s preference of several popular high-quality microphone brands or one of two Alteros Subminiature Omnidirectional Condenser Lavalier Microphones, the GTX899 or the GTX899SW, latter equipped with an in-line talkback switch. The GTX24’s talkback function allows talent to easily speak to production staff, eliminating the need for a separate wired talkback box, or may be used as a momentary “cough switch.”
Broadcast-friendly features of the GTX3224 control unit include two separate and fully redundant AC power supplies and the ability to synchronize directly to the house clock, with failover to an accurate internal clock. The front-panel GUI offers a real-time battery gauge that displays the remaining operational time for each transmitter and additionally allows users to set custom battery level alerts. The unit may be remotely monitored and controlled from a PC or computer network and offers a timestamped event logger tool that can track and record the performance of every GTX32 and GTX24 for up to one month.
Altero is here. Leave a Comment
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ClearOne Will Debut Seven New Solutions and One New Major Software Upgrade at InfoComm
ClearOne is debuting seven new solutions and one new major software upgrade at InfoComm 2018 in Booth #N1628 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Derived from ClearOne’s latest CONVERGE Pro 2 line of DSP mixers, the new CONVERGE Huddle conferencing solution for huddle rooms and similarly sized meeting spaces will be debuted at InfoComm 2018. Affordable and integrator-friendly, the new solution comes equipped with the latest Acoustic Echo Cancellation and Noise Cancellation audio processing algorithms, and audio and video collaboration applications can be accomplished through a single cable connection to users’ Bring Your Own Devices (BYOD), such as laptops, tablets and smartphones that run applications such as Spontania, Skype for Business and more.
Also making its debut is the new CONVERGE Pro 2 VT Series that includes both VoIP and Telco interfaces in the same CONVERGE Pro 2 unit, simplifying designs and purchasing for integrators, increasing installation flexibility and offering freedom of choice. The new models function the same as the existing V and T offerings and models featuring Dante audio technology will now fall under the VTD series. Additionally, all models are Avaya, Cisco and ShoreTel compliant and support Microsoft Skype for Business built-in client.
The new CONVERGE PA 460 Amplifier is a four-channel x 60 watts or two-channel x 120 watts high-efficiency professional audio power amplifier for auditoriums, lecture halls, conference rooms, boardrooms, training rooms and more. With Class-D power amplifier technology, plug-and-play simplicity, protection from overload and auto-standby for efficient power consumption, the new ClearOne CONVERGE PA 460 Amplifier exceeds the expectations for advanced and reliable amplification in any setting where crisp, audible sound is needed to make an impact.
Expanding its ceiling microphone array product-line, ClearOne will introduce the new Ceiling Microphone Array Dante, which features all of the same great benefits as the first-generation Ceiling Microphone Array and Ceiling Microphone Array Analog-X, with the addition of a built-in Dante audio network interface. The Ceiling Microphone Array Dante is also compatible with any DSP mixer with a Dante interface network as well as with ClearOne’s CONVERGE Pro 2 DSP mixers.
ClearOne will also debut the new WS800 M550 Wireless Microphone System that operates in the 537-563 MHz range in response to new FCC rules limiting the use of certain frequencies in North America. The new solution is necessary to give integrators a full range of frequency options and includes tabletop, gooseneck, hand-held and belt-pack lavalier models of wireless microphones/transmitters and a base-station receiver with either four or eight channels. With the addition of the M550 model, the WS800 is now offered in eight frequency ranges.
The new and lowest priced VIEW Lite AV over IP streaming solution has an Encoder EJ100, Decoder DJ100 and Controller CJ100 that together deliver full-screen, single-image video using JPEG2000 codec standard technology, with a very low latency of around 1.5 frames end-to-end (glass to glass), with resolutions of 4K30 and 1080p60 with 4:4:4 color space support for ultra high quality video for live streaming and distribution applications over a dedicated IP network.
ClearOne will also unveil COLLABORATE Space, a new video collaboration app that connects hundreds of users joining from any device, anytime and anywhere for messaging, calls and meetings. Available on-cloud or on-premise, it includes a variety of collaboration tools such as screen sharing, file sharing, whiteboarding, co-annotation, meeting minutes, recording and chat, which are all accessible anytime during a call or meeting.
ClearOne will also unveil a new software upgrade for its COLLABORATE Pro 300/600/900 systems.
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MSE Audio Launches Outdoor Smart Amplifier Weatherproof OS-440
MSE Audio just announced the OS-440, a smart amplifier that’s made to be outside. Debuting at InfoComm 2018, the OS-440 from MSE Audio is an outdoor smart amplifier featuring IP55 certification. The OS-440 is entirely weatherproof and includes on-board Bluetooth functionality and a Wi-Fi direct mode is it can wirelessly connect to an existing network and function as a Google Chromecast device, interface with DLNA servers and provide multi-zone control. In addition, users have the option to hard-wire a source for analog and digital outputs, allowing it to interface with any existing source or system. The OS-440 boasts multi-zone control, as well as voice-controlled audio control by pairing with an Amazon Alexa-enabled device.
Visit MSE Audio in booth C1937 at InfoComm 2018. Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Clear-Com to Debut 800 Series Encore
Clear-Com will launch its new weatherproof 800 Series Encore Analog Partyline beltpacks at InfoComm 2018. Designed for Industrial and Marine settings, the 800 Series single and dual-channel beltpacks are uniquely engineered and IP-53 rated to be more durable than other Encore models against environmental elements such as water and dust, while maintaining high-quality audio for clear and reliable communication amongst users. The 800-series weatherproof beltpacks are completely compatible with the 700 series Encore Partyline.
The 800 Series beltpacks, (RS-801-IM single channel and RS-802-IM dual channel) as well as the MS-802-IM (two-channel main station), the RM-802-IM (two-channel remote station) and the KB-802GM-IM (two-channel speaker station) are also Marine Certified, since they are DVN-GL compliant, certified asbestos-free and conform with Navigational Compass Safety regulations.
The 800 Series product range can connect and interoperate with current 700 Series Encore product models, such as main stations, power supplies and beltpacks, including all legacy partyline products and other IP connected intercom via the LQ Series IP interfaces.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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MXL Debuts New AC-360-Z Web Conferencing Mic MXL Microphones introduces its new USB-powered table-top web conferencing microphone, the MXL AC-360-Z. The new MXL AC-360-Z has been co-developed with engineers from Zoom, a leading web conferencing and communications software provider, to enhance the microphone solution for Zoom Rooms and Zoom-enabled conference rooms.
The AC-360-Z expands upon the popular three capsule boundary microphone, the AC-404, through its 180° sound arc, with a full 360° pickup. When placed at the center of a large conference table, everyone speaking around the AC-360-Z will be clearly audible.
The AC-360-Z is compatible with any Mac or PC device through simple plug-and-play connectivity without needing to download any drivers. When used with Zoom, each quadrant of the AC-360-Z acts as an independent device for optimal performance and fidelity. Link up to three devices together to cover any room, small or large, and each microphone ships with a complete installation kit including cables and mounting options.
The MXL AC-360-Z is here. Leave a Comment
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Barco Adds Option to Integrate Overture Into ClickShareJust two days following one of Gary’s most popular blogs, Barco’s Overture Dilemma, Barco announced exactly what he suggested inside the blog — they’ve integrated Overture into ClickShare!
In a blog post from ClickShare Product Manager Steven Lampshear, shrouded as an educational piece about how ClickShare can make meetings simpler, near the bottom, is a section on what’s new at InfoComm that says, “Overture can now be configured with the industry-leading collaboration device, Barco ClickShare, which eliminates time spent “passing the cable” from presenter to presenter and creates an integrated and streamlined meeting environment. Overture and ClickShare together manage a full range of customized settings relevant to the meeting environments that are most productive for your team.”
So, at InfoComm, it’s clear Barco will officially announce that Overture will be added as an integration option to ClickShare. This may very well give Overture a new life. Leave a Comment
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Da-Lite To Unveil 16K-Ready Ambient Light Rejecting (ALR) Surfaces At InfoComm
Ambient Light Rejection (ALR) surfaces provide a brighter image in high ambient light environments, allowing users to benefit from larger, more affordable displays that look like flat panels. The latest additions to the ALR lineup include electric screen options as well as additional surfaces that can accommodate borderless screens as well as large venue options.
HD Progressive 1.1 Contrast is a vinyl ALR surface that block 20 percent of light while expanding the types and sizes of screens that can now feature an ALR surface. HD Progressive 1.1 Contrast can be used in borderless applications as well as electric options including Wireline, which is a large venue electric screen that eliminates black drop with up to 29 feet of cable.
It features a wide viewing half angle of 60° and is glare- and speckle-free.
All Da-Lite surfaces are GREENGUARD and GREENGUARD Gold certified and are eligible for the Screen Green program that allows customers to send in old surfaces to be recycled keeping them out of landfills and contributing to a healthier planet. The Da-Lite facility is 100 percent landfill-free. You can find them here. Leave a Comment
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Da-Lite Intros New Electric Screen
While custom and made-to-order products are a cornerstone of the Da-Lite business, sometimes a customer needs a screen fast. The new Da-Lite Descender Pro will be the first product that Da-Lite stocks ready to ship same day.
The non-customizable electric screen will be available in 16:9 and 16:10 formats in sizes from 106”-164” diagonal with four surface options – HD Progressive 0.9, HD Progressive 1.1, Da-Mat and Matte White. The black drop for tensioned screens will be 12” visible and preset while the black drop for the non-tensioned will be 2” visible and preset with a total 12” built into the housing.
The Descender Pro will begin shipping mid-summer and all the details are here. Leave a Comment
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Carousel Digital Signage Centralizes Systems Integration and Management Work in 7.3
At InfoComm 2018, Carousel Digital Signage, a division of Tightrope Media Systems, will emphasize the systems integration and IT management benefits of its new 7.3 software release for enterprise-class digital signage. The demonstrations will bring the cost and labor-reducing value proposition of Carousel Digital Signage to the forefront for systems integrators, consultants and dealers/distributors tasked with deploying, scaling and maintaining expansive digital signage networks.
Since first partnering with BrightSign several years ago, the Carousel Digital Signage team has focused on reducing the amount of time and labor required to configure, deploy and manage players across large corporate, higher education and other enterprise networks. The new 7.3 software release further strengthens the “zero-touch approach” of BrightSign player management introduced in Q1’s Carousel 7.1 release. Key auto-provisioning benefits include:
- Automatic, high-speed configuration of all BrightSign players, which removes the need to write SD cards for each player on the network
- Secure storage of player settings on the Carousel server, accelerating recall of players by serial number for management and troubleshooting
- Remote adjustment of settings and firmware updates by player, group, or enterprise-wide – all accomplished through Carousel’s responsive user interface
- Apple TV Management and Control
Carousel last year announced a new initiative to commission Apple TV consumer devices as media players for less expansive networks, where smaller IT departments are more typically tasked with managing their signage networks. First introduced for K-12 schools in a partnership with Jamf, a device management provider that specializes in helping IT departments work with Apple computers and devices, initial rollouts have since proven that the cost and simplicity of such deployments also translate to multi-site networks. This gives Carousel customers another cost and labor-efficient option for enterprise-scale content playout.
Carousel Digital Signage more recently developed a tvOS app to help AV integrators and IT departments streamline the configuration and deployment of Apple TV devices as digital signage players. The app even offers advanced management features, including manual disabling of AirPlay to prioritize delivery of important messages, such as weather or security bulletins.
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For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe ProAV Edition out there, hopefully you enjoyed another opinion-packed issue!
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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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