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08 August 2024

Germany - Sommer Cable has launched the SYSCAT4 family. It enables the simultaneous and reliable transmission of up to four analogue or eight digital AES/EBU or DMX signals over distances of up to 100 metres via stage-compatible CAT cables.

The core element of the SYSCAT4 family is a splice adapter consisting of the compact and robust Hi-Housing metal enclosure with integrated EtherCON RJ45 full metal panel jack and a sturdy cable gland, split into a 50cm long four-fold splice made from the flexible and resistant SC-Semicolon 2 digital patch cable in combination with Neutrik or Hicon XLR connectors (three- or five-pin, male or female). The channel numbers are clearly marked - in Sommer style - on the connectors: Channel 1 = pin 4+5; Channel 2 = pin 3+6; Channel 3 = pin 1+2; Channel 4 = pin 7+8.

The SYSCAT4 family also includes matching floor stage bo

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07 August 2024

China - A team from Netherlands-based creative studio Live Legends recently completed a bold technical scheme for the Sir.Teen Group and their Club Been, a new venue and entertainment concept that has burst onto the highly competitive nightlife scene in Beijing, China. Headed by project director Serge Patist and lighting designers Thomas de Vries and Bas Knappers, the brief encompassed set, video, lighting and audio.

For the venue’s lighting design, over 250 Robe moving lights were selected, including 144 Spikies, 76 Viva CMYs and six T1 Profiles.

Other creatives involved in the project from Live Legends included Daan Oomen (creative director and principal designer), Stefan Peters (interior designer), Rik Schoutsen (video specialist), VFX artists Jim de Brouwer, Robbert Lubken and Boudewijn de Kraaij, plus music producers Joos van Leeuwen and Maart

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07 August 2024

Spain - The ancient temple of San Miguel in the Spanish city of Cuenca provides a stunning backdrop for Luz Cuenca, a fully-immersive sensory experience offering an artistic expression of the cultural wealth of the city.

Drawing on the city’s history, which is closely linked to art ­- and especially abstract art - Luz Cuenca is a multimedia exhibition that combines artistic lighting techniques and a dramatic orchestral music score with 2D and 3D projection mapping.

Digital immersive experience specialist Ibercover Studio was in charge of production and content design, turning to leading AV company Fluge to design and supply a high-quality sound system for the project.

Jesús Catá, AV project engineer at Fluge, explains: “Ibercover Studio asked us to design an immersive, robust and high-quality audio system as a key ele

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07 August 2024

France - The Twist Years at the Eiffel Tower Theatre in Paris follows a group of young people who traverse the moral and social revolutions of the tumultuous 1960s through some of that decade’s formative music. Recounted via music classics of the era, from French and international artists, all songs are presented live beneath an Elation rig of Fuze Profile and KL Profile FC luminaires.

Boris Jacob, from Elation’s French distributor Best Audio & Lighting, handled lighting design on the project. He comments: “This show really gives pride of place to the Elation brand with the Fuze Profile and the KL Profile FC. The luminous flux and high CRI, the identical colorimetry between the Fuze and KL series, as well as the silence, make these fixtures the perfect choice!”

A flexible framing fixture for theatre and TV, the Fuze Profile house

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07 August 2024

UK - ETC architectural lighting and power control has been selected for the refurbishment of major music and arts venue, Bristol Beacon. Specialist systems integrator and ETC dealer LSI Projects installed the lighting fixtures and power systems including ETC ArcSystem fixtures, Echo and Paradigm, F-Drive, Sensor3 and ColorSource ThruPower power controls, Response networking and more.

Hailed as ‘one of the great cultural icons of modern-day Britain’ by Arts Council England, the Bristol Beacon is recognised as a world-class music and arts venue which has been hosting performances - including for artists such as The Beatles and David Bowie - for over 150 years.

The selection of ETC products is a significant upgrade aimed at enhancing the Bristol Beacon’s visual and operational capabilities. The chosen products, which include Paradigm and Echo syst

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07 August 2024

Spain/UK – LED displays from Spanish manufacturer Alfalite have been installed in a new centre of excellence for education and research in AV content and process at London’s University of Greenwich. The centre, which has been named SHIFT (Shared Hub for Immersive Future Technologies), aims to be a pioneer in the study and development of advanced AV technologies.

The installation includes an Alfalite Modularpix Pro 1.5 ORIM VP XR LED wall, which will provide an advanced platform for the creation and display of XR content. The system was supplied and installed by Mo-Sys along with StarTracker Max systems and other XR solutions for a complete VP XR experience.

Through the new centre, the University of Greenwich will design virtual production training programmes for industry professionals, participate in research and knowledge exchange projects to id

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07 August 2024

Denmark – Copenhagen’s Bremen Teater has recently upgraded its audio system, with the Midas HD96-24 Console at the heart of the setup. With a seating capacity of 650, the venue is renowned for hosting a variety of events, including the popular TV2 shows Live Fra Bremen and ALOHA!. It has also been the chosen venue for award ceremonies like the Steppeulven and the GAFFA Awards.

Given the eclectic schedule and the necessity to accommodate guest productions with unique lighting and sound setups, Bremen Teater faced significant audio challenges. 

To address this, the theatre collaborated with Danish ‘super partners’ Matrix Sales, led by Claus Pederson, and Bremen Teater’s chief engineer Mikael Flensborg, to design an audio system that could seamlessly integrate with the existing infrastructure.

Centra

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07 August 2024

Germany/USA - Colorado-based Brown Note Productions recently fielded 120 GLP impression X4 Bar 20s and 12 JDC1s to help provide a riveting backdrop and enhance the natural wonder that is the Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

The production they were brought in for was a fast-moving, high-octane performance by South African DJ/producer Black Coffee, who was joined by LP Giobbi, THEMBA and DJ Holographic.

Situated south-west of Denver, at an elevation of 6,500ft, the amphitheatre is a 9,525-capacity, sloped, all-seated venue with an illustrious history since opening in 1941.

Working to a set designed and project managed by James Dutton of High Scream, Brown Note Productions has - over the past 16 years - produced over 1,000 events at Red Rocks, ranging from concerts and films to private events, according to its president, Ryan Knutson. For this productio

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07 August 2024

Netherlands - Since 1996, Concertzaal Tilburg has been an important platform in the Netherlands for a wide range of performances, from classical concerts to pop music and spoken word events. The 743-seat auditorium, known for its versatility, hosts everything from small symphonic and chamber music to amplified concerts, festivals, musical theatre and conferences. To better serve its diverse programming and audience, Concertzaal Tilburg has upgraded its audio with a new L-Acoustics Kara II concert sound system, marking another step in the venue's ongoing commitment to providing quality experiences for both performers and attendees.

"Our goal with this upgrade was to address some of the acoustic challenges we've faced over the years," says Pernel van Herpt, technical manager at Concertzaal Tilburg. "The Kara II system gives us more flexibility to accommodate o

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07 August 2024

Belgium - Spa is best known for its mineral water and legendary Formula One circuit, but each July the small Belgian city welcomes almost 200,000 visitors for the annual Francofolies Festival.

This internationally renowned festival promotes contemporary music, conceived and designed with respect for the environment and sustainable development. The programming and artists reflect the values ​​upheld by the festival: multiculturalism, the dissemination of Francophilia worldwide, and advocacy for a modern and innovative vision of culture.

With headline performances from French singers Christophe Maé and Patrick Bruel, Congolese singer and rapper Gims and French folk-rock band Louise Attaque, this year’s festival took place from 18-21 July.

Sound for the Pierre Rapsat main stage was provided by Belgian production technology specialist Art

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07 August 2024

USA - As a New York City XR Studio dedicated to democratising virtual production, WLab leverages cutting-edge Brompton Technology LED processing and Pixreal Avatar series, offering a unique opportunity for first-time virtual production filmmakers to kickstart their journey in this revolutionary field.

WLab emerged from a fundamental quandary: the world of virtual production, while evolving rapidly within studios such as Disney, Amazon, and Sony, remains an enigma and a luxury to students, artists, and independent creators. “We questioned why such a critical and transformative aspect of modern filmmaking should only be accessible to a privileged few, and how we could resolve this imbalance,” says WLab’s co-founder, Tommy Wu.

With a team of passionate filmmakers from New York University (NYU), School of Visual Arts (SVA), and Savannah College of

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06 August 2024

UK - Cadac Consoles has announced the strategic decision to locate manufacturing of its new CM-System in the United Kingdom. The move marks a significant transition from its previous China production base under the Soundking Group.

Mr. Xianggui Wang, president of the Soundking Group, emphasised the benefits of the relocation. "To fully realise Cadac Consoles’ potential and ensure its long-term sustainability, both Soundking Group and Cadac Consoles’ management team recognise the importance of partnering with a UK-based manufacturer specializing in low volume, high value products, in ensuring that the high expectations of its customer base are fully met.

"This decision additionally enables Soundking to reallocate resources to our broader product range, accelerating our ability to drive Soundking’s global growth across the AV sector."

Jam

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06 August 2024

UK - It’s with mixed emotions, after 40 years of dedicated service to the television lighting industry, that Richard Martin Lighting Limited (RML) has announced its decision to close the business and sell its name and assets.

Owner of the business, Richard Martin, says: “It’s been an immense honour to serve the television lighting industry for the last 40 years. We will always remember the exciting, inspiring, and occasionally challenging opportunities it has afforded us.

"First and foremost, I would like to say a very big, sincere thank-you to the people who made this business so successful. The vision and knowledge of our operations director, Steve Wells, as well as our staff, customers, and suppliers have all helped RML grow and prosper. RML’s ethos has always been to listen to and then respond to the industry appropriately. It’s never e

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06 August 2024

Australia - AtlasIED has announced its partnership with Australia-based National Audio Systems (NAS). Through this partnership, NAS will sell and distribute AtlasIED’s technology catalogue, including audio, security, and mass notification technologies.

Established in 1998, NAS is a respected and leading distributor of world-class professional audio and visual brands focused on commercial installation and production markets across Australia and New Zealand. The company’s ethos and focus are to provide the finest solutions, products, and industry-leading customer service.

“AtlasIED has been of much interest to NAS for some time,” said Brad Kivela, business & product manager, NAS. “We have been watching the development of new innovative products and a large investment in personnel over the last 12-18 months. We see clear product roadmaps a

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06 August 2024

UK - SWG Events joined forces with fellow Martin Audio network partner 22live recently to field a massive 80 premium loudspeakers from the British manufacturer at Ashton Gate, home of Bristol City FC, over a memorable weekend.

The Saturday event, called Ashton Gate Presents BS3, saw American singer-songwriter Ne-Yo headlining an all-star 10-act bill, that included Craig David, Jess Glynne, Dizzee Rascal, DJ Spoony and local legend, Roni Size, playing to a 27,000-capacity crowd.

The staging then changed for the Sunday, which saw Kings of Leon playing the venue as part of their Can We Please Have Fun world tour.

SWG Events’ head of sound, Simon Purse explained the PA design, which he had overseen. Left and right main PA comprised drops of 16 WPL, supported by two out-hangs of 12 elements in each. 

There were a further two delay tower

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06 August 2024

Saudi Arabia - The Ultimate Fighting Championship hit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the first time this summer. On 22 June, UFC Fight Night lit up the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, with Unusual Rigging & Engineering on board to supply the full production rigging.

Richard Hoare, rigger at Unusual commented; “This event wasn’t just a first for Riyadh, but for us at Unusual too. We’ve served as house-riggers for the event when it’s taken place at the Etihad Arena previously, but on this occasion, we won the contract to supply the full scope of production rigging. We worked alongside DLM, the rigging consultants for IMG and Bowie Ebrill who was onsite overseeing the installation and removal.

“Production manager Phil Campbell of IMG, was really pleased with the work and professionalism that our team had supplied as house riggers in Abu Dhabi an

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06 August 2024

UAE - Zenon Dubai at Kempinski Central Avenue in the Dubai Mall, is a new restaurant and lounge that, using cutting edge immersive technology with AI-powered performances and interactive displays, promises its customers an unforgettable sensory experience. It is the first nightclub in Dubai to be fitted with all-Ayrton moving lights.

The design, installation, programming and system integration were all the responsibility of Alex Douglas, lighting consultant with Em-Tec, UAE’s leading AV installation and maintenance provider. Douglas put Ayrton fixtures front and centre of his design, alongside two floor-to-ceiling video walls and two holograms. He chose Ayrton Zonda 3 FX, Zonda 9 FX and Cobra fixtures to create an elaborate overhead ‘chandelier’ comprising 3 concentric circular trusses suspended 18m above the DJ and lounge area, augmented by a side dis

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06 August 2024

Postponed - Venues around the country have reported postponed shows and damage to property following violent riots. Sunderland Empire was forced to postpone two nights of performances following riots in the city, which also saw nearby venue the Fire Station report damage to its premises.

Elsewhere, a children’s dance performance at the Regent Theatre in Stock-on-Trent was cancelled, after the ATG-owned venue went into lockdown because of nearby violence and Theatre Royal Plymouth cancelled a performance of The Devil Wears Prada musical on 5 August.

Fringe Matters - Edinburgh city centre was affected by a widespread power outage that wreaked havoc on the first day of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The outage caused disruption at several venues, including Pleasance Dome, Gilded Balloon Patter House, Assembly George Square St

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05 August 2024

China - DirectOut has announced Digital Media Technology Co (DMT) as a new distributor for its audio solutions in the Greater China region.

Founded in Hong Kong in 1990, DMT has established itself as a leading supplier of audio and video system solutions. With four additional offices in Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai and Taipei, DMT offers a full range of services, from design to support.

"DMT's technical expertise and deep understanding of the market make them an ideal partner," said Luca Giaroli, chief solution officer at DirectOut. "This collaboration ensures optimal integration of our audio solutions."

Over the years, DMT has successfully implemented complex installations, including music recording systems and networked post-production environments, expanding its reach and capabilities in the broadcast, music production, and live sound sect

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05 August 2024

UK - 22live has become one of the first suppliers to achieve the AGF (A Greener Future) Greener Supplier certification. This certification underscores the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its proactive efforts to reduce emissions and waste across operations and services.

The AGF certification is an independently verified acknowledgment of green credentials, helping events, venues, festivals, and tours easily identify green suppliers. This recognition will save both suppliers and clients time and resources in evidencing their commitment to sustainability.

The journey to certification involved a thorough assessment of 22Live’s practices in various key areas of environmental sustainability, including energy management, food & beverage sustainability,

transportation efficiency, waste management practices, water con