THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 2, Episode 10: Audio Advantage: How Sound Shapes Competitive Play

When it comes to AV in esports, we often talk about eye-popping visuals and massive LED displays—but there’s another critical piece of the puzzle that doesn’t always get the spotlight: audio. In the latest episode of THE rAVe Esports Show, I’m joined by Josh Kell, CEO of Esports Integration and Horizon AVL, to unpack the […]

THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 2, Episode 10: Audio Advantage: How Sound Shapes Competitive Play

Authentic Esports: The Path to Pro — What It Really Takes

From Cafeteria LANs to Center Stage: A Player’s Journey The first time they sit down on stage, the lights are blinding, the crowd is buzzing, and every camera is pointed their way. The monitor flickers, the countdown starts, and the dream of going pro suddenly feels real. But this moment doesn’t happen overnight. It doesn’t […]

Authentic Esports: The Path to Pro — What It Really Takes

THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 2, Episode 9: Two Years in the Game: Show Recap

What a journey it’s been. When we launched THE rAVe Esports Show, we had one big goal: bridge the gap between the esports and AV communities. Along the way, we’ve uncovered incredible stories, visited some jaw-dropping venues, and had conversations that reshaped how we think about the future of gaming, education, and technology. And now, […]

THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 2, Episode 9: Two Years in the Game: Show Recap

rAVe October 2025 Temperature Check Survey — Now CLOSED

The October Temperature Check survey is now closed. Keep an eye out for next month’s survey!  Esports used to be “something the kids were into.” Now it’s a global business with universities building arenas, brands hosting tournaments and integrators racing to keep up. We want to know: Are you in the game, on the sidelines […]

rAVe October 2025 Temperature Check Survey — Now CLOSED

THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 2, Episode 8: Building Esports Spaces from the Ground Up

I’ve said it before: esports spaces don’t just happen. Behind every arena, every shoutcaster desk, every perfectly lit player POV—there’s a whole lot of planning, tech, and collaboration. In this episode of THE rAVe Esports Show, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Lucas Hayworth, one of the most passionate and knowledgeable figures I’ve […]

THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 2, Episode 8: Building Esports Spaces from the Ground Up

THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 2, Episode 6: Building Equitable Esports Spaces

In this episode of THE rAVe Esports Show with Bubba Gaeddert, Kevin Diltz of Extron breaks down what it means to design esports environments that are not just high-tech, but truly inclusive. Kevin emphasized the difference between equality and equity: equality gives everyone the same tools, but equity ensures everyone has what they need to […]

THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 2, Episode 6: Building Equitable Esports Spaces

THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 2, Episode 5: Level Up: Touring the HyperX Esports Arena at Luxor

  In this episode of THE rAVe Esports Show, I had the chance to step inside one of the most legendary esports venues on the planet — the HyperX Esports Arena at the Luxor Hotel in Las Vegas. If you’ve ever wondered what makes a truly world-class esports facility, this is it. We started by […]

THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 2, Episode 5: Level Up: Touring the HyperX Esports Arena at Luxor

Authentic Esports: Can the Ecosystem Survive Education — and Everything After?

This article features the audiovisual industry’s role in this dramatic trilogy — and serves as a polite wake-up call to the industry and manufacturers. Every great movement in history eventually hits that awkward moment when the hype train pulls into the reality station. Esports is no different. Once the underdog of digital entertainment, it’s now […]

Authentic Esports: Can the Ecosystem Survive Education — and Everything After?

THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 2, Episode 4: The Business of Esports: Monetization, Partnerships, and Sponsorships

On the latest episode of THE rAVe Esports Show, I had the chance to sit down with Chris Postell for a great conversation about something that doesn’t get talked about enough in this space — the business of esports. Esports isn’t just about gameplay and production value — it’s a full-on ecosystem with real revenue […]

THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 2, Episode 4: The Business of Esports: Monetization, Partnerships, and Sponsorships

THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 2, Episode 3: InfoComm 2025 Esports Tech Breakdown

InfoComm 2025 had a ton of next-gen tech on display, and in this episode, I shared what it all means for esports. I highlighted standout launches, booth moments, and innovations in displays, audio, control systems and more—everything shaping the future of live esports events and competitive gaming. Whether you were on the show floor or […]

THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 2, Episode 3: InfoComm 2025 Esports Tech Breakdown

Authentic Esports: Gaming vs. Esports (A Tale of Two Realms)

A good author knows that before reaching the story’s climax — or final boss — you have to build the world, introduce the characters, set the stakes, and never skip the setup. Likewise, in this column, I’ll avoid rushing straight into listing AV gear as if it’s patch notes. I want to capture the heart […]

Authentic Esports: Gaming vs. Esports (A Tale of Two Realms)

Authentic Esports: An Introduction

Welcome to Authentic Esports, a monthly series where I take you deep into the heart of the esports and gaming market. If you’re expecting the usual corporate jargon about “cutting-edge AV solutions” or a thinly veiled sales pitch dressed up as expertise, hit Alt+F4 now. This isn’t that. Here, we talk about real esports, real […]

Authentic Esports: An Introduction

THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 1.5, Episode 3: The Esports Stadium Arlington Facility Tour

It’s time for another episode of THE rAVe Esports Show with Bubba Gaeddert. Today, I’m taking you on a tour of the Esports Stadium Arlington in Texas. We’ll explore the facility, including the main stage, the backstage area, and the spectator experience. Join me for an inside look! Do you want to be notified before […]

THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 1.5, Episode 3: The Esports Stadium Arlington Facility Tour

Here’s How the University of Staffordshire Used the Panasonic KAIROS to Build an Esports Broadcast Venue

University of Staffordshire has created a state-of-the-art esports broadcasting course with the support of Panasonic and its long-term partner, Digital Garage. This will enable the university to run esports events, accommodate more students onto the course and position itself as a leader in academic esports broadcasting. University of Staffordshire was the first university to launch […]

Here’s How the University of Staffordshire Used the Panasonic KAIROS to Build an Esports Broadcast Venue

How to Get Into Esports Part 1: A Recap

Esports is rapidly growing and becoming a crucial part of both the entertainment and education sectors. During this week’s LAVNCH & LEARN, Gary Kayye talks about how to delve into the world of esports, but most importantly, why you should. To find out more about the opportunities esports present for AV professionals, be sure to […]

How to Get Into Esports Part 1: A Recap

Esports Will Award Nearly $2B in Prize Money in 2024 and will Eclipse 640 Million Players Globally

Soulbound.gg reports that the top 100 esports games will award $1.72 billion to 131,543 players through 52,451 tournaments as of 2024. The global audience is expected to exceed 640 million by 2025. Leading games include Dota 2, Fortnite, Counter-Strike, League of Legends, and Arena of Valor. China leads in earnings with $289.1 million, followed by […]

Esports Will Award Nearly $2B in Prize Money in 2024 and will Eclipse 640 Million Players Globally

THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 1.5, Episode 2: From CRTs to Cutting-Edge Monitors: The Evolution of Esports Technology

It’s time for another episode of THE rAVe Esports Show with Bubba Gaeddert. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of gaming, exploring its history, where it all started and talk about classic CRTs. We also cover where esports is today and the technology around today’s high-power monitors and the advantages. Do you […]

THE rAVe Esports Show — Season 1.5, Episode 2: From CRTs to Cutting-Edge Monitors: The Evolution of Esports Technology

THE rAVe Esports Show Season 1.5 — Episode 1: Boise State University Esports Facility Tour

Explore Boise State University’s esports facilities with an exclusive tour and get an inside look at the Collegiate Esports Commissioners Cup. Discover how cutting-edge technology is shaping the future of competitive gaming, guided by insights from industry leader Chris Haskell. Plus, hear from a student-athlete about their experience and gain further perspective on the evolving […]

THE rAVe Esports Show Season 1.5 — Episode 1: Boise State University Esports Facility Tour

Esports in the Olympics and the Esports World Cup: A New Era of Competitive Gaming

In a historic move, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has officially embraced the “digital revolution” by creating the Olympic Esports Games. This decision, made during the 142 IOC Session on June 23, 2024, marks a significant milestone for the esports community and the broader sports world. The first edition of the Olympic Esports Games will […]

Esports in the Olympics and the Esports World Cup: A New Era of Competitive Gaming

THE rAVe Esports Show — Kickoff to Season 1.5 of THE rAVe Esports Show with Bubba Gaeddart

Join host Bubba Gaeddart as we kick off season 1.5 of THE rAVe Esports Show. Episode one includes: A recap of the incredible first season Insights into the latest esports technologies Engaging interviews with industry experts at InfoComm 2024 Learn about the integration of esports in education, the importance of connectivity in competitive gaming and […]

THE rAVe Esports Show — Kickoff to Season 1.5 of THE rAVe Esports Show with Bubba Gaeddart

A Recap of InfoComm 2024: An Esports Expert’s Perspective

Attending InfoComm 2024 in Las Vegas as the esports expert for rAVe [PUBS] was an exhilarating experience. The sheer size and scope of the event were beyond my expectations, with thousands of attendees and hundreds of booths showcasing the latest advancements in AV technology. The energy and enthusiasm of the crowd, combined with the impressive […]

A Recap of InfoComm 2024: An Esports Expert’s Perspective

rAVe [TV] Episode 167.2: InfoComm 2024 Day 2

Gary and I offered more show-floor thoughts on Day 2 of InfoComm 2024, live from the Shure booth. Featuring guests Chris Lyons from Shure, Rochelle Richardson from AVIXA, Kevin Henneman from KMH Integration, and THE rAVe Esports Show’s Bubba Gaeddert. Plus stay tuned after the show at a sneak peak of the new season of […]

rAVe [TV] Episode 167.2: InfoComm 2024 Day 2

Sneak Peek: InfoComm 2024 — A Game Changer for Esports

As a video games and esports enthusiast, expert and industry veteran, I couldn’t be more excited about InfoComm 2024 in Las Vegas! This year’s event, the largest ProAV trade show in North America, promises an unparalleled showcase of cutting-edge technology and innovation. As a representative of rAVe [PUBS] and THE rAVe Agency, I’ll be hosting […]

Sneak Peek: InfoComm 2024 — A Game Changer for Esports

THE rAVe Esports Show — Episode 12: Silent Strats: Unveiling Esports Secrets with an AV Expert Coach

Join us for the rAVe Esports Show with Bubba Gaeddert, where in this episode esports meets cutting-edge AV expertise! Dive into the world of competitive gaming with a unique twist—explored through the lens of a former esports coach turned AV specialist. Delve into the strategies, tactics, and behind-the-scenes secrets of esports, all while gaining insights […]

THE rAVe Esports Show — Episode 12: Silent Strats: Unveiling Esports Secrets with an AV Expert Coach

CCS Presentation Systems Opens Esports Center

A system integrator’s success comes from identifying the right growth markets, and CCS Presentation Systems is doubling down on Esports. The Mesa, AZ-based integrator, with more than 30 years’ experience, is building an Esports demo room in its newly built U.S. headquarters outfitted with all the technology a modern gaming production needs, including Sony’s point-of-view […]

CCS Presentation Systems Opens Esports Center

InfoComm and AVI Systems Team Up Again to Present InfoComm Esports Live 2.0

FAIRFAX, VA – April 11, 2024 – InfoComm and AVI Systems have teamed up again to present InfoComm Esports Live 2.0 at the show this June 12-14 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Attendees will experience esports in action all three days with a Gaming Stage featuring live match play competitions; esports expert presenters and […]

InfoComm and AVI Systems Team Up Again to Present InfoComm Esports Live 2.0

THE rAVe Esports Show — Episode 11: Accessibility in Gaming: Ensuring Inclusivity in Esports

On THE rAVe Esports Show with Bubba Gaeddert, we explore the importance of accessibility in gaming and esports, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate. Beyond discussing the significance of accessibility, we provide insights and practical solutions for making gaming and esports more inclusive. Experts in the field of accessible gaming technology share their […]

THE rAVe Esports Show — Episode 11: Accessibility in Gaming: Ensuring Inclusivity in Esports

SPIRE Academy Adds Esports Training Program

SPIRE Academy announced the launch of its General Esports program. This is aimed at providing new Esports athletes with opportunities for training, skill development and career pathways. With this program, SPIRE continues to lead the industry by offering advanced initiatives that empower esports athletes to excel. SPIRE says its commitment to Esports extends beyond training […]

SPIRE Academy Adds Esports Training Program

THE rAVe Esports Show — Episode 10: Entering the Metaverse: The Intersection of Gaming, Esports, and Virtual Reality

In this episode, we embark on an exciting journey into interactive entertainment, where gaming, esports, and marketing create an immersive digital universe. We explore how the digital media space is changing the way we game, compete, and socialize. Our experts discuss the impact of extending the experience outside of the game. The blurring of lines […]

THE rAVe Esports Show — Episode 10: Entering the Metaverse: The Intersection of Gaming, Esports, and Virtual Reality

THE rAVe Esports Show — Episode 9: Inside the Venue: Unveiling the Tech Powering West Point Academy’s Esports Arena

In the latest episode of THE rAVe Esports Show, host Bubba Gaeddert provides an exclusive glimpse into the electrifying world of esports arenas, focusing on the state-of-the-art facilities at the West Point Academy. Victor Castro, the director for Army West Point Esports, offers an in-depth walkthrough of the innovative solutions deployed to create an esports […]

THE rAVe Esports Show — Episode 9: Inside the Venue: Unveiling the Tech Powering West Point Academy’s Esports Arena

How Gaming Engines and AI are Shaping AV

In 2016 I wrote a blog called, “Why aren’t we talking about NVIDIA?” If you missed it, the general conclusion was that AI and large-scale video applications would drive NVIDIA to success well beyond gaming. When I wrote that blog in April of 2016, NVIDIA was trading at $8.50. Today, NVIDIA is at $776 with […]

How Gaming Engines and AI are Shaping AV

THE rAVe Esports Show — Episode 8: From Pixels to Profits: Monetizing Esports in Colleges

Uncover the financial side of esports in education and events during THE rAVe Esports Show with Bubba Gaeddert. This episode explores how schools can generate revenue through esports programs. Bubba will interview Angela Bernhard-Thomas, the Chief Esports Officer at Collegiate Sports Management Group / EsportsU. Discover the strategies and best practices used by educational institutions […]

THE rAVe Esports Show — Episode 8: From Pixels to Profits: Monetizing Esports in Colleges