Volume 8, Issue 10 — October 31, 2014
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Trick or Treat
By Joel Rollins rAVe Columnist
Picture it: October 31, 1970, just about dark. Joel Rollins is applying some last minute upgrades to his Halloween costume. Dark sweats, red cape — check. But the mask has got to go. A mangled pair of black glasses — better. Deftly, he fashions two letters out of duct tape and smooths them onto his sweatshirt. He’s the only trick or treater who offers to come in and fix your VCR. He’s AV Man!
Kind of makes my career in AV seem like destiny, doesn’t it? I still fix the odd vintage gadget for old times’ sake (especially when rewarded with candy), but today I’m here to distribute the treats. And/or tricks. And some suggestions for our readers’ Halloween costumes.
The 2014 round of audio video trade shows wrapped up in September, and we’ve had awhile to reflect on the products and trends that were introduced this year. Were there any genuine treats for those of us who sell, rent or work in AV? Did we find any lumps of coal in our stockings ?…Wait, wrong holiday.
What tricks (or treats) will this mean for us this Halloween?And, equally pressing, can we provide some suggestions for answering the eternal Halloween question: What does an AV person go as?
Well, to start with, a classic for this year is “Standard Zombie.” Not to be confused with the zombies so popular on television today, not only are Standard Zombies always decomposing, they are forced to carry a huge bag of three letter abbreviations around with them for trick-or-treat. The treat associated with this costume is a whole new fleet of equipment to accommodate standards.The trick (as always) is to re-engineer an existing fleet to accommodate a standard which may or may not “take.”
Another great costume is the “Phantom Exhibitor”made popular at InfoComm 2014 this year by Microsoft. The truly efficient thing about this character is that it isn’t necessary to make a costume at all. Wear a Microsoft T-shirt, hide in the shrubs when they open the door and tell them that unless they give you a treat they will see you next year.
“Home Theater Man” would be another cool get-up. Go dressed in a Best Buy uniform, and offer to help your unsuspecting victims integrate their home theater. This is actually giving them a treat. Then, for the trick, offer to help them with their boardroom. This should scare the living daylights out of them, and woe be to any CIOs it doesn’t scare.
For something topical, how about “BYOD Gremlin?” Festoon yourself with mobile devices, wrapped in miles of wires with proprietary connectors. Tell them that unless they give you a treat you will spend the next ten days trying to integrate your phone with their projector to watch YouTube. Leave anytime you want, with the job undone, telling them that you need to contact the manufacturer for their drivers. (Just don’t put this little job on your resume.)
JRR
P.S. – If you’ll indulge me, I’d like to take a minute to remember Everett Hall, founder of Everett Hall Associates, and my mentor and friend. Ev’s birthday was October 31. Happy birthday, Ev. I know you’re working that great gig in the sky. And to all you AV guys and gals out there — Happy Halloween! Leave a Comment
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Mackie Introduces Six New Compact Mixers Mackie today announced its new Mix Series Compact Mixers with three models, the Mix5 5-Channel Compact Mixer, the Mix8 8-Channel Compact Mixer and the Mix12FX 12-Channel Compact Mixer with Effects. Mix Series mixers are the most affordable mixer produced by Mackie.
The Mix5, Mix8 and Mix12FX compact mixers feature the right mix of I/O, EQ and routing for applications that don’t require a lot of inputs or multiple racks of output. Ideal for singer/songwriters, small band rehearsals or instrumentalists on the go, Mix Series mixers deliver high-quality Mackie pre-amps and electronics in proven high headroom, low-noise designs. Additionally, Mix12FX offers a selection of 12 integrated effects including reverbs, choruses and delays to easily create mixes that sound great. Each model features an all-metal chassis, high-quality components and a sleek rugged design that’s built to last.
Mackie Mix Series compact mixers are already shipping and the Mix5 lists for $69.99 and the Mix8 lists for $109.99 and the Mix12FX lists for $159.99 and their specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Barco Intros Present-C Line With 10 New Single-Chip DLP Projectors Barco has introduced 10 new corporate AV projectors under the brand Present-C. Present-C projectors are all single-chip DLP projectors with brightness levels ranging from 3,000 up to 8,000 lumens. Resolutions include 1080p, WUXGA, Panorama and WQXGA, with all models spec’d at low noise dB levels.
Here are all the announced models, with additional specs and links to more information:
- CVHD-31B: 3,000 lumens, Full HD 1920x1080p
- CVWU-31B: 3,000 lumens, WUXGA (1920×1200)
- CTHD-61B: 5,500 lumens, Full HD 1920x1080p
- CTWU-61B: 5,500 lumens, WUXGA (1920×1200)
- CTPN-41B: 3,800 lumens, Panorama (2560×1080)
- CTWQ-51B: 5,000 lumens, WQXGA (2560×1600)
- CNHD-81B: 7,500 lumens, Full HD (1920×1080)
- CNWU-81B: 7,650 lumens, WUXGA (1920×1200)
- CRPN-62B: 5,500 lumens, Panorama (2560×1080)
- CRWQ-72B: 7,000 lumens, WQXGA (2560×1600)
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Analog Way’s Software Toolbox App for Android and iOS Now Available Analog Way announced that AW Toolbox, a wireless app to remotely operate the LiveCore series of AV processors, is now available for download.
The app offers the ability to manage the Soft Edge Blend function, recall presets, operate transitions and configure the processor’s inputs and outputs. One unique feature is that AW Toolbox displays sources and logos through dynamic snapshots automatically refreshed every second. Compatible with Android tablets and the Apple iPad, AW Toolbox is available on both the Google Play Store and iOS App Store. One weird thing is that Analog Way is charging for it?! That is not a good idea.
Here it is on the Google Play store. Here it is for Apple iOS. Leave a Comment
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TASCAM Releases New DSLR Recorder to DR-60DmkII TASCAM has updated its recorder for use with DSLR video to the DR-60DmkII. The four-channel recorder gets new microphone pre-amps with up to 64 dB of gain for recording quiet voices on set. Designed as a portable recorder, the DR-60DmkII contains a tripod mounting screw on top and socket hole on the bottom, integrating with cameras from Canon, Nikon, Sony and others. The camera output attenuates down to mic level before passing the signal to the camera to prevent distortion. The new version includes an improved microphone preamp for up to 64 dB of gain.
A pair of XLR microphone inputs feed TASCAM’s latest HDDA microphone pre-amps and provides phantom power for condenser microphones. The pre-amp gain and other controls are easily accessed from the front panel with physical controls instead of software menus for quick adjustment. A second pair of inputs can be patched to wireless receivers or other sources for four-track recording. These pre-amps far outshine the camera audio and individual headphone and line outputs allow an additional feed on-set. Four channels can be recorded or the unit can be set to Dual Recording mode, which records a safety track at a lower level to prevent distortion.
At a cost less than competing preamps, the TASCAM DR-60DmkII is the ultimate 4-track recorder designed for filmmakers, television, live events and web broadcast.
- Four-track WAV or BWAV recording up to 96kHz/24-bit
- Designed to attach to a DSLR camera with top and bottom tripod mounts
- Easy-to-use interface with switches instead of menus
- Dual record mode captures a safety track so there’s a backup in case of overload
- High-quality microphone pre-amps, analog/digital converters and recording format (BWAV) — much better than the camera audio specs
- Improved microphone preamp with up to 64 dB of gain
- Camera output pads down to mic level so it doesn’t overload the camera
- Records to SD card media
- Individual headphone and line outputs
- Slate function plays a tone for easier synchronization with camera audio
- Two XLR/1/4” combination jacks plus stereo 1/8” mini jack
- Powered via AA batteries or USB input
It will list for $199. Details are here. Leave a Comment
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db Technologies Launches DVX Theater Series Stage MonitorsItalian loudspeaker manufacturer dB Technologies just launched the DVX TH “theater” series stage monitors. The initial introduction includes the DVX-DM12 TH and DVX-DM15 TH active two-way stage monitors, both spec’d as high output (136 dB max SPL) and featuring either 12” or 15” neodymium woofers with 4” voice coil coupled with 1.4” exit HF neo compression driver with 2.5” voice coil. The cabinets feature rotatable HF driver (for left or right configuration), double EQ preset, input and output panels on either side with universal switch mode power supply. Frequency response on the DVX-DM12 TH is 63Hz-16 kHz and on the DVX-DM15 TH is 55Hz-16 kHz (+/-6 dB).
A unique feature of the TH series monitors is the ability to rotate the front panel to configure the monitor with the horn on the right or on the left for stage positioning and stereo configuration purposes. In addition, the 90×40 horn can be rotated for proper pattern coverage.
dB Technologies says the TH series incorporates a two-way Digipro G2 amplifier which splits the power delivering 750-watts RMS to the low frequency section and 375-watts RMS to the high frequency section. Integrated with SMPS (Switched-Mode Power Supplies) and PFC (Power Factor Correction) technologies assure operation with supply voltages between 100 VAC and 240 VAC.
The monitor cabinets are constructed of heavy-duty 15-mm multi-layer birch, painted with a black polyurea for ruggedness. All inputs (Powercon and XLR input) are located at one end with the links (Powercon and XLR output) at the opposite end for ease of pass-through connectivity. The input section also includes LED indicators monitoring the internal limiter circuit, amplifier status, power voltage, input sensitivity and audio signal presence. Two recessed side handles facilitate transport.
All the technical specs are here for the DMX-DM12 TH and here for the DMX-DM15 TH. Leave a Comment
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Antelope Audio Introduces MP32 32-Channel Microphone PreamplifierAntelope Audio is launching the MP32, a 32-channel, console-grade microphone preamplifier with integrated software control. Housed in a 2U rack space, MP32 each of the class-A pre-amps on the MP32 feature phantom power and four of them can operate as Hi-Z instrument inputs. By using the MP32’s control panel (compatible with both Mac and PC), users can manipulate each of the unit’s input types and mic gain levels remotely.
Each preamplifier on the MP32 was designed to be what Antelope is calling open and transparent, introducing an increased level of sonic realism in recorded material. The unit offers excellent headroom and up to 65 dB of gain in 1 dB steps — more than enough power for even the most demanding ribbon mics.
The MP32 is scheduled to ship Q4 2014 and will list for $2,995 and here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Apogee Introduces New Ensemble Apogee Electronics’ new Ensemble is a 30×34 Thunderbolt 2 audio interface. Using Intel’s Thunderbolt technology, Ensemble provides everything you need to record, edit, mix and master professional quality audio on your Mac using Logic Pro, Pro Tools or any Core Audio based DAW.
At 1.1 milliseconds, Ensemble offers the lowest round-trip latency performance available in any all-in-one audio interface, eight mic pre-amps featuring Apogee’s Advanced Stepped Gain circuitry, front panel Guitar I/O, built-in talkback functionality and the most comprehensive user interface of any Apogee product. Ensemble’s proprietary Thunderbolt audio driver and full 32-bit playback path provide incredible CPU efficiency, allowing you to leverage the power of your Mac to monitor through a DAW with native plug-ins and simplify your workflow.
Ensemble Features:
- Thunderbolt 2 Mac audio interface
- Eight mic pre-amps with up to 75 dB of gain and Advanced Stepped Gain circuit
- Two front panel Guitar I/O channels with class A JFET inputs, dual mode re-amp outputs
- 16 analog outputs of premium Apogee conversion
- Complete input/output control with Apogee’s Maestro software
- AD/DA conversion for recording up to 24-bit/192kHz
- Works with Logic, Pro Tools, Ableton or any Core Audio compliant app on Mac
It lists for $2,495 and here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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DVIGear Launches DisplayPort Cables Supporting 4K / 60Hz DVIGear’s new line of High Resolution DisplayPort Copper Cables transport DisplayPort signals with bit rates up to 21.6 Gbps. over cable lengths of up to 15 meters (approximately 50 feet). These cables support uncompressed DisplayPort resolutions up to 4096×2160 / 60 Hz.
Long distance transport of high resolution DisplayPort signals over copper cables must overcome several challenges, such as insertion loss, differential skew and jitter. Insertion loss is caused by cable capacitance, which acts as a low-pass filter, blocking higher frequency signal components from passing. Skew occurs when the differential DisplayPort signals get delayed and become out of phase as they pass over a long cable. Both factors contribute to increased digital jitter, which degrades the performance of the cable. This jitter becomes more severe with higher resolutions, higher bit rates and longer cable distances. Conventional cables that support lower resolutions at short distances are often unable to support the data rates required by higher resolutions at longer distances. The resulting video can be disrupted by visual artifacts or may not be visible at all.
To overcome these challenges, DVIGear says its HR Series DisplayPort Cables are constructed using heavy gauge 24AWG copper wires that provide ruggedness and durability. The heavier wire gauge has increased cross-sectional cable area, as well as decreased capacitance and lower differential skew, which allows high speed signals to pass with minimal jitter. These features enable cable lengths of up to 15 meters with full compliance with DisplayPort 1.2 signal parameters.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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The Neumann U47 is BackAn icon of 1970s music scene was the Neumann U 47 fet microphone. As the transistorized successor of the U 47, it permitted the processing of very high sound pressure levels for the first time, for instance allowing positioning directly in front of loud amps. Due to this feature, and the capsule sound derived from its famous tube-based predecessor, the U 47 fet contributed to many legendary recordings of the time.
Now the U 47 fet is back! For the new “Collectors Edition U 47 fet,” Neumann has resumed production of this classic mic and say they are building it to the original production documents and schematics. The Collectors Edition is supplied in a wooden case with special packaging, and an individual certificate with the serial number of the microphone.
In terms of technical design, the U 47 fet is a condenser microphone with a cardioid directional characteristic and fet 80 circuit technology. If required, a switchable low-cut filter raises the lower cutoff frequency electronically from 40 Hz to 140 Hz, and switchable attenuation can reduce transmission levels by 10 dB. In addition, to prevent overloading of the connected preamp, the output signal can be reduced by 6 dB via a switch on the bottom of the microphone.
The $4,000 mic can be seen here. Leave a Comment
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TASCAM Debuts Wireless Linear Recorder TASCAM’s DR-10C series recorders connect to your lavaliere microphone to create a compact recording system that fits on a belt pack. Two versions are available: the DR-10CL for Lectrosonics mics and DR-10CS for Sennheiser microphones. Additionally, option kits are available for Shure (AK-DR10CH) and Sony/RAMSA (AK-DR10CR).
The DR-10CL & CS recorders have both inputs and outputs, so they can either be used stand-alone or with a wireless transmitter. When used with a transmitter, the DR-10C acts as a backup to protect against wireless dropouts during recording. For lectures or worship services, the DR-10C can record the entire program before it gets to the front of house system. And for events like weddings and reality TV production, the DR-10C is a compact recording system for body mics.
The DR-10C runs for hours on a single AAA battery. It records to standard microSD media. Recording features include auto-gain and a low-cut filter for simple setup. Its dual recording feature records a safety track of your audio at a lower level, so in case of distortion you have a non-clipped backup. When multiple units are used, an infrared signal can synchronize settings between recorders.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Neumann Debuts Midfield Monitor Neumann is expanding its KH line with its first midfield monitor, the KH 420. The active three-way system (10″+3″+1″) designed for larger 5.1 and 7.1 configurations and listening distances of up to 11 meters.
With a corner frequency of 52 Hz, the KH 420 uses something they call Mathematically Modeled Dispersion Waveguide (MMD), acoustical controls for matching the speakers to the listening room, a highly flexible input section, and a wide range of mounting hardware make the KH 420 a versatile monitoring tool for the audio professional. The KH 420 has been designed to provide optimum dispersion regardless of the orientation of the cabinet. This is possible thanks to the rotatable waveguide section which contains both the high frequency and mid-range drivers.
An optional Digital Input Module (DIM 1) will be available for the KH 420, which provides the monitor with digital AES3 and S/P-DIF inputs and a delay function. This feature, which is available on both the digital and analog inputs, may be used for audio/video lip synchronization and to compensate for non-equidistant speaker placement. Maximum delay time is 409.5 ms with a minimum resolution of 0.1 ms.
Here are the specs. Leave a Comment
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Mackie Launches DL32R Digital Live Sound Mixer Mackie launched a new 32-channel digital mixing system controlled wirelessly from Mackie’s intuitive Master Fader iPad app.
The Mackie DL32R features a mix of flexible, professional I/O in a 3U rackmount design. Each of the 32 inputs (24 XLR, 8 XLR/TRS combo) feature Mackie’s all-new Onyx+ recallable mic pre-amps, with remote control over preamp gain and phantom power. The new Onyx+ pre-amps outperform the industry-proven Onyx design, which has garnered rave reviews for its boutique-quality sound and performance.
Fully-assignable using the Master Fader control app, there are 14 XLR outputs great for anything from stage monitors to matrix outputs. The front panel also features a stereo AES digital output for connecting gear like speaker processors. A dedicated stereo monitor output is ideal for connecting an in-ear monitor system for detailed listening from anywhere in the venue.
With complete wireless control of the system using Mackie’s Master Fader iPad app, a new world of mixing possibilities opens up. There is no longer any need for a fixed FOH position. Place the mixer where it works best – be it next to the stage, backstage or even tucked away in a utility closet. This can also eliminate the need for an expensive, bulky analog snake.The DL32R does away with troublesome FOH positions such as under a balcony, behind a pillar, etc. The user can tune the room right from the problem spots and get on stage to ring out monitors or work with the band to dial in the perfect monitor mix.
Multiple engineers can work wirelessly from a single DL32R mixer using their own iOS device, including monitor engineers and performers who wish to control their own monitor mixes. The lead engineer can apply access limiting to additional control devices, keeping the user from making unwanted changes.
Multi-track recording and playback are critical for professional applications and the DL32R features two flexible methods for multi-track recording and playback. The first of these is direct to USB hard drive, which is currently a 48 kHz, 24-bit, 24 input by 24 output platform. This will be expanded soon to 32×32 via a free firmware update. The direct-to-disk option delivers unprecedented wireless control over your multi-track recording and playback
An additional USB 2.0 computer audio interface is available for 32×32 recording and playback that can directly connect with any DAW, great for studio applications and rehearsal spaces. Both methods provide the ability to record the band and perform a virtual soundcheck at the next show.
The DL32R is loaded with powerful DSP that eliminates the need for racks of expensive outboard processing. Each of the 32 inputs features a 4-band parametric EQ with a separate high-pass filter plus gating and compression. Four return channels feature dedicated EQ and compression. Each of the 14 aux sends, six matrix busses and main L/R busses feature a 4-band parametric EQ, 31-band GEQ, a compressor limiter and alignment delay. Six subgroups feature EQ and compression. Each processor features Modern and Vintage voicing options, delivering sonic choice to the user. Three separate effects processors with dedicated sends allow for two reverbs and one delay with tap control. Six VCAs and six Mute Groups round out the processing.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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PreSonus Adds Dante Networking to StudioLive AI Loudspeakers PreSonus has introduced the SL-Dante-SPK, an optional input card that adds Dante networking to the company’s StudioLive AI-series Active Integration loudspeakers, making StudioLive AI-series the first Dante-enabled active loudspeakers on the market. The SL-Dante-SPK card houses one network port for Dante audio networking and remote control via the free SL Room Control application for StudioLive AI-series loudspeakers.
Dante-enabled StudioLive AI-series three-way active loudspeakers allow users to create a complete, networked audio system with any Dante-enabled mixer using a standard 1Gbps Ethernet switch and Audinate’s Dante digital-media networking technology, which offers self-configuring digital audio networking. Dante is the audio networking standard of choice for more than 130 manufacturers.
Users can also connect non-Dante mixers to the analog inputs of a Dante-equipped AI loudspeaker and then broadcast the signal over the Dante network using standard Cat5 cables.
The Dante upgrade works with StudioLive 312AI, 315AI, 328AI and 328i loudspeakers and the StudioLive 18sAI subwoofer. It lists for $199 and details are here. Leave a Comment
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K-Array Launches the Next Generation of Touring Line Array SpeakersThe KH8 is one of the world’s first flexible digital “slim array technology” line array speakers (S.A.T); slim and compact in design, self-powered and weather resistant providing an exceptional peak output of 145 dB SPL offering a rather different solution to the touring audio market. It is fully controlled by the on-board DSPs for hyper detailed beam steering and maximum operational flexibility. Its counterpart, the KS8, is a compact, self-powered, weather resistant subwoofer element providing a peak output of 148 dB SPL. This too has dynamic set up options for optimum delay calibration.
A system of 24 KH8 units can be flown in just 10 minutes. This is possible because it is not necessary to dismount the entire cluster: the speakers are anchored in groups of three within rigid frames that can be connected quickly to create longer clusters (uJZ picp to 24 units). Compared to traditional systems that require wiring and a mechanical connection for each speaker, the KH8 saves time. Every unit can be independently tilted to focus the sound mechanically and then digitally steered. The portability and ease of assembly are just some of the advantages of configuring a “straight array.”
For example, suppose you want to change the inclination angle of a speaker when the cluster has already been hoisted: with the KH8 it is not necessary to pull the cluster down, it is sufficient for someone to change the tilt of the single speaker, an operation that requires no more than a few minutes. In addition, the “straight array technology” minimizes the cluster’s volume and allows maximum freedom on where they are hoisted. For instance, you don’t need much space in depth behind the cluster which instead can be flown almost attached to a wall or a Layer tower.
More details will be on the K-Array website here. Leave a Comment
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Planar Adds Two New Ultra-Narrow Bezel Models Planar Systems today announced two new “ultra-narrow” bezel LCD models in its line of Clarity Matrix LCD Video Wall System with G2 Architecture: a 46” model with 800 nits brightness and a 55” model with 500 nits brightness. The new models feature a tiled bezel width of just 3.7 millimeter (0.15 inches) between adjacent LCD displays and also includes an extended video and power transmission system to video wall for distances of up to 500 feet (150 meters).
Thus, the Clarity Matrix video wall system design eliminates the need for AC power outlets behind the displays. With the electronics and power supply off-board, the weight, depth, heat and potential points of failure can be placed in a convenient location for easy maintenance. Built-in video extension capabilities have been expanded so electronics can be co-located with the source up to 500 feet (150 meters) away from the video wall. A single remote power supply module can power up to six displays.
The new Clarity Matrix MX46HDU and LX55HDU models will be available Q4 2014 and here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Extron DisplayPort to HDMI Scaler Featuring Audio De-Embedding Now Shipping Extron is already shipping its DSC DP-HD A, an HDCP-compliant scaler that converts DisplayPort signals to HDMI. It accepts DisplayPort video at resolutions up to 3840×2160 @ 30 Hz with reduced blanking, and offers high performance scaling with multiple output rates up to 1920×1200, including HDTV 1080p/60 and 2K. The DSC DP-HD A features Extron video signal processing with 1080i de-interlacing and Deep Color processing for optimal image quality. It includes many integrator-friendly features such as auto-memory presets, on-screen display, test patterns, EDID Minder, stereo audio de-embedding and a DisplayPort input loop-through, while the compact enclosure simplifies installation.
The DSC DP-HD A offers several features that enhance and simplify AV system integration. EDID Minder automatically manages EDID communication between the source and display to ensure reliable operation. The DSC DP-HD A includes a buffered DisplayPort input loop-through that provides an output signal for a local monitor. Additional audio capabilities include selectable audio muting and output volume control. The DSC DP-HD A includes a convenient analog two channel audio output for sending de-embedded audio to a sound system or other audio destination. This output can be set for stereo or dual mono.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Earthworks Ships 40kHz High Definition FlexMic Podium Mics Earthworks has expanded its FlexMic Series of podium microphones to include 40kHz High Definition models, which feature an extended frequency response from 50Hz to 40kHz.
The original FlexMic models feature a 50Hz to 20kHz frequency response, while the new High Definition models have 50Hz to 40kHz response that the company says offers even greater clarity and intelligibility than the 20kHz models.
All FlexMic and HD FlexMic models feature a new slimmer 7 millimeter diameter gooseneck, and a shorter tip, providing an overall lower profile. The FM and FMHD models feature a fully flexible gooseneck, while the FMR and FMRHD models have a rigid center with flex at both ends. All FlexMic models are available with either cardioid or hyper-cardioid polar patterns in 13, 19, 23 and 27 inch overall lengths.
Every standard and HD FlexMic utilize Earthworks’ patented polar technology, which allows speakers to move as much as 90 degrees off-axis to either side, above or below the mic and still maintain the same sound quality with high intelligibility. All FlexMic and HD FlexMic models are currently shipping and specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Martin Audio Debuts PSX Self-Powered Subwoofer Martin Audio has released its PSX, a self-powered subwoofer for the DD6, XD12 and XD15 loudspeaker systems. Featuring a 15”/4” voice coil and long-excursion driver in a reflex-ported enclosure, it houses two channels of Class D amplification, one channel for itself and one channel to power an XD12, XD15,or up to three DD6s.
The PSX’s Class D amplifier section is spec’d to produce a total peak output of 2400W, with 1400W allocated to the 15” subwoofer and 1000W to drive the full-range system. Its switched-mode power supply auto-ranges to global mains voltages from 100 to 240V 50/60Hz, and Power Factor Correction smooths out the mains current draw over the whole of the AC waveform. The operating range of the PSX is 48Hz to 150Hz, with a peak SPL capability of 136dB at one meter.
An onboard DSP handles delay, crossover and EQ functions, while the PSX plus full-range system can be controlled and monitored from a laptop or wireless tablet PC via intuitive VU-NET proprietary software. PC connection can be made directly via micro USB, or via Martin Audio’s proprietary U-NET network and Merlin loudspeaker and network management system.
An important feature of the PSX is its Internal memory, which allows factory ‘plug-and-play’ or user-generated DSP preset ‘snapshots’ of the PSX/full-range combination to be recalled by means of a preset selector button on the rear panel, instead of using computer control.
The PSX’s plywood enclosure is coated in hard-wearing polyurethane and its Declon backed steel grille is pre-curved to, according to Martin, resist deformation in the field. Practical features include a pole-mount fitting in the top surface, bar handles and protective skids. When stacked, the skids on the base of the upper PSX enclosure align with recesses in the top of the enclosure below.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Harbinger Introduces New LvL Series Mixers Harbinger’s new LvL Series of compact mixers are available in multiple channel configurations and are being marketed as “affordable.” Offered in 12-, 8-, and 5-channel configurations, LvL Series mixers are equipped with what they are calling “professional grade,” studio quality pre-amps and features include integrated LvL Series EQ, Input/Peak indicator LEDs on every channel and a five-segment LED main mix meter. All models feature switchable phantom power for condenser mics, convenient headphone outputs, and RCA inputs for easy connection to computers or external recorders, as well as a robust AC power supply. Plus, all mixers are housed in a rugged, all-metal chassis.
LvL Series mixers are designed for compact and portable applications, including rehearsals and small to mid-sized combos. Small broadcasters and podcasters will likely appreciate the LvL Series for voiceovers, interviews and webcasts.
LvL Series mixers include the 12-Channel L1202FX, 8-Channel L802 and 5-Channel L502 models. The most compact of the series, the L502, features five inputs including XLR mic preamp and dual 1/4-inch stereo inputs, along with 2-band LvL Series EQ and assignable Tape In routing. The mid-sized L802 offers dual XLR mic preamps and two dual 1/4-inch stereo inputs with +4/-10dB sensitivity selection, 3-Band LvL Series EQ, as well as unexpected features like assignable Tape In routing, separate Main and Control Room outputs, and a dedicated Aux Send/Return. The flagship L1202FX model packs even more features into its compact footprint, including four XLR mic preamps with 1/4-inch TRS balanced/ unbalanced line inputs, four more 1/4-inch balanced/unbalanced stereo inputs with +4/-10dB sensitivity selection, four channels of 3-Band LvL Series EQ, 75Hz high-pass filters on each mic input, dedicated Aux Send/Return, on-board digital FX including tap tempo delay and a full-sized master fader.
List price on the L502 is $44.99; the L802 sells for $64.99 and the L1202FX is $109.99. All are here. 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
To read more about my background, our team and what we do, go to https://www.ravepubs.com Back to Top |
Copyright 2014 – rAVe [Publications] – All rights reserved. For reprint policies, contact rAVe [Publications], 210 Old Barn Ln., Chapel Hill, NC 27517 – (919) 969-7501. Email: sara@ravepubs.com
rAVe Rental [and Staging] contains the opinions of the author only and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of other persons or companies or its sponsors. |
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