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27 June 2025

Singapore - Stage 4 AV, a busy rental and technical production supplier working primarily in the high-end corporate, social and lifestyle sectors, has recently invested in Astera QuikSpot wireless LED spotlights, with the purchase of 24 fixtures from Singapore distributor, Total Solution Marketing.

These were added to the company’s general lighting rental inventory because they were “the right product for our markets,” explains S. Ramesh, Stage 4 AV’s managing director, who is also responsible for equipment procurement and key client management.

Ramesh specifically wanted luminaires that looked neat and elegant and could be used effectively for tasks like illuminating tables at a gala dinner event and in scenarios where they could be deployed quickly and accurately and run without any light spillage.

QuikSpot was specifically devised

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27 June 2025

Germany - The Beatsteaks, one of Germany’s most successful punk rock bands, have been out on their Please tour, in support of the album of the same name, since spring 2024. This tour has continued in 2025.

Lighting designer Joanna Ossolinska, who has worked with the band for several years, developed a completely new lighting concept for the tour – with some deliberate references to previous tours. The characteristic line of light and the Viennese curtain as a backdrop have long been part of the Beatsteaks’ DNA and needed to be retained.

The goal was to create a flexible setup that would accommodate both the highly variable set list and the logistical requirements. At the same time, it was important to capture the band’s signature style.

“The Beatsteaks have always preferred a stage design without traditional spotlights, gob

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27 June 2025

UK - Tribute band Queen Extravaganza’s latest tour celebrated the 50th anniversary of Queen’s seminal Bohemian Rhapsody. Providing an appropriately lavish setting for this celebratory tour was a production created by Rick Lipson of Stu Fish, who designed the set, and lighting designer Rob Sinclair.

Ensuring that the concert production continued to deliver dynamic and colourful looks on a consistent basis as the tour made its way from one sold-out venue to the next was Jason Hyne, who ran the one-track time-coded show (with some cue stacks), on his own ChamSys MagicQ MQ250M Stadium Console. The flexibility of that console was invaluable in helping him scale the show to different venues.

“We worked at a lot of different sized venues on the tour, which is always a challenge, but it keeps it interesting when you need to make the show fit i

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27 June 2025

Switzerland - Building on the success of Pyramix 15, Merging Technologies is launching an update to its flagship media server and sequencer with Ovation 11. Ovation has been widely adopted across professional and commercial installation markets, and Merging’s new updates help transform the user experience for a range of AV applications.

With a new design and streamlined usability, Ovation 11 introduces a refined dark-mode interface and intuitive navigation that puts powerful show control and audio playback at your fingertips. The redesigned integrated mixer, panner, and renderer are now fully customisable – giving users complete flexibility to tailor buses, strips, and aux channels to their workflow, whether for straightforward stereo playback, multizone or complex immersive formats. Support for VS3 plugins with up to 32 audio channels ensures Ovation 11

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27 June 2025

Europe - The newest addition to Elation’s Fuze series, the Fuze PFX, brings all the power and versatility of a multi-purpose automated fixture - now in a compact footprint. Designed to deliver serious output and feature-rich flexibility in a smaller package, the Fuze PFX is designed for both production and installation environments where space and performance matter.

For applications that demand a high-output, multifunctional light, the Fuze PFX combines the precision of a profile fixture with the creative potential of an effects light. It delivers over 15,000 lumens of output and can handle everything from tight beams and precise framing to expansive washes.

Despite its feature-packed design and powerful 400W white LED engine, the Fuze PFX maintains a compact and lightweight form factor, making it an ideal choice for venues where rigging space is

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26 June 2025

Canada - Vertus Group, a division of Jonas Software, has acquired CAST Group of Companies.

CAST is an Emmy award-winning developer of software and hardware solutions for the entertainment, special events, and meetings industries. Its flagship products include the industry-leading WYSIWYG lighting design and pre-visualisation suite, and the real-time tracking platform, BlackTrax. These tools have earned the trust of top professionals around the world to design and execute complex productions with precision and impact.

“After more than 30 years of building, growing, inventing, and leading CAST, it was time to pass on the torch,” said Gilray Densham, founder of CAST. “We found the perfect home in Vertus Group. They will continue our legacy and drive the company forward through innovation, the very thing that makes CAST an industry leader.”

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26 June 2025

UK - Crystal Palace Park became the epicentre of ‘a sonic revolution’ as Polygon Live LDN delivered the UK's largest outdoor 360° immersive sound festival from 2-4 May 2025. The three-day event brought together artistry and spatial audio innovation, with artists such as Jon Hopkins, Max Cooper, Cosmo Sheldrake, and Halina Rice performing specially crafted sets within Polygon's signature hemispherical dome – a space where sound ‘moves beyond traditional stereo boundaries to surround listeners from every direction’.

For CEO Nico Elliott, the Crystal Palace event represents the culmination of nearly a decade spent reimagining how audiences connect with music. "We're creating audio environments where every element can move through three-dimensional space with purpose," Elliott explains. Since first integrating L-ISA technology at Thailand's <

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26 June 2025

UK - The ABTT Theatre Show 2025 attracted increased visitor numbers, record-breaking engagement and international draw.

There were over 3,200 people on the show floor this year, making the ABTT Theatre Show at Alexandra Palace busier than ever. With a 15.6% increase in unique attendees, a 16% increase in revisits on Day 2, this year’s event confirmed its growing importance as a central hub for live performance professionals.

The show welcomed over 200 global brands, featured a vigorous seminar programme, and hosted hands-on workshops led by renowned industry figures – all aimed at advancing careers, showcasing innovation and facilitating powerful new connections. 

ABTT CEO Liz Sillett commented: “My first ABTT Theatre Show as CEO was a whirlwind of excitement and brilliance. The buzz was incredible, coming from such a talented and insp

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26 June 2025

UK - A hat-trick of Powersoft amplifier platforms, including multiple models from the company’s Ottocanali series, are powering a new public address and voice alarm (PA/VA) system at Elland Road stadium in Leeds.

Complemented by Unica- and Mezzo-series amplifiers, also from Powersoft’s extensive fixed-install range, the Ottocanalis provide the amplification backbone for a safety-first, EN 54-certified PA/VA system delivered by UK-based system integrator ImPerium Integration.

Opened in 1897 and originally home to a semi-professional rugby league team, Elland Road has been home to three-time English football champions Leeds United FC since the club’s formation in 1919. Like many heritage stadiums in the UK, Elland Road’s layout betrays its humble roots, with different parts of the venue having been updated separately in the 128 years since its

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26 June 2025

UK - London’s Trafalgar Square was transformed into the capital’s brightest basketball stage as the inaugural Jr NBA 3v3 Finals were held under the gaze of Nelson’s Column and the National Gallery, and featured 10 city secondary schools in an electrifying final. 

The tournament was held on Friday 6 June and operated by London Marathon Events (LME) in collaboration between the NBA and LME, designed to get more children across the capital playing basketball for boys, girls and wheelchair competitions.

The team at Henley Theatre Services (HTS) were appointed to construct the three separate NBA courts in the middle of Trafalgar Square for this prestigious one-day event, working in partnership with PopUpArena.

Three truss structures were erected to formulate the temporary courts, which consisted of two 18m x 15m courts built from 10m tall P

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26 June 2025

Japan - The Nagoya Betsuin of the Shinshu Otani-ha is a historic temple located in Aichi Prefecture’s Nagoya City. Affectionately known as Higashi Betsuin, it has grown into a central place of worship in the Japanese region since its construction in 1632.

As well as hosting Buddhist ceremonies and religious events, the temple is used for exchange events and markets, making it an important meeting place for the local community. However, the building’s distinctive architecture comes with complex audio challenges, including intelligibility in the main hall.

To resolve long-standing acoustic issues and improve clarity for attendees, the Taimensho reception hall recently enjoyed a significant upgrade with the help of Renkus-Heinz distributor Beetech, who installed an Iconyx Compact audio system.

The reception hall is a large, traditional templ

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26 June 2025

Austria - Prime Studio, one of Europe’s most scenic and technically sophisticated recording destinations, has once again partnered with Van Damme to bring high-spec custom cabling to its latest room: Studio C.

Located in St. Gilgen in the Austrian Alps, Prime Studio is known for its world-class acoustics, rare vintage gear, and surroundings. The studio’s founders, Bjorn Heitzer and Gerhard Buchbauer, previously worked with Van Damme on Studio A, and returned in late 2023 to equip Studio C; a mastering and post-production control room built around legendary Abbey Road EMI TG12345 MK IV and TG12410 consoles.

The new installation was completed using a range of bespoke Van Damme assemblies, including: EDAC looms made with 12-pair Blue Series cable, D-sub looms using both 8-pair and 16-pair Blue Series, AES digital connections using Green Series cable

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26 June 2025

USA - The Miller Centre for the Arts at Reading Area Community College in Pennsylvania is a visually striking, acoustically refined performing arts centre known for hosting a wide array of national acts, local productions, student showcases and community programming. With more than 100 ticketed events annually, and many more college and civic engagements, venue leaders sought to modernise its aging sound system to meet the expectations of both audiences and touring professionals.

Stray Production Services, a longtime user and integrator of JBL Professional products, partnered with the college to deliver a comprehensive audio upgrade anchored by the JBL VTX A6 line array system and Crown iTech Series amplifiers. The new setup provides pristine clarity, even coverage and a sleek aesthetic that complements the unique design of the room.

“This beautifu

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26 June 2025

UK - Solid State Logic has announced the launch of Oracle - A Future Analogue Console. “Delivering analogue sound with instant, effortless, and complete recall and reset across the entire console, Oracle fulfils the dreams of producers, engineers, and studio owners around the world: a true professional solution, delivered with SSL quality, reliability, and support,” says SSL. 

“Today, the company is proud to announce Oracle: a fully analogue in-line mixing console offering large-format features in a compact, AWS-size footprint, with instant, effortless, and complete recall of all processing, routing, gain, and pan settings thanks to the company's innovative new ActiveAnalogue technology.”

With the ability to instantly switch between mixing or tracking setups, change the session’s workflow in less time than it takes the artist to switch tra

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26 June 2025

Hungary - Lightware’s Lara Wizard makes it ‘quicker and easier than ever’ to set up audio-visual (AV) room automation and control configurations, ensuring anyone, from systems integrators to IT teams, can achieve their desired system configuration in minutes.

Lara is Lightware’s built-in room automation platform, which simplifies AV system control in meeting spaces. Pre-integrated into Lightware’s core products, it empowers everyone to design, deploy and manage professional AV systems quickly and efficiently. A key part of this efficiency is the Lara Wizard interface. This online service is the quickest way for users to get started, delivering reliable room control without writing a single line of code.

Visitors to Lightware’s InfoComm 2025 booth will have seen Lara featured in multiple demonstrations, with the Lara Wizard also having its

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25 June 2025

Australia - Harman Professional Solutions has announced the consolidation of its audio and video control distribution in Australia. Effective 1 August 2025, MadisonAV will become the exclusive distributor for the complete Harman Professional audio and video portfolio across the region. Distribution of the Martin Professional lighting portfolio will continue with Show Technology.

“The Harman Professional portfolio is evolving in a way that R&D investments in new hardware and software platforms are reshaping the portfolio and our business,” said Amar Subash, vice-president and general manager, Harman Professional APAC. “As we look to the future, there are great benefits in consolidating distribution as it will allow us to leverage the full potential of the investments made to the portfolio, and I’m pleased that MadisonAV will carry us forward.”

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25 June 2025

Ireland - d&b audiotechnik loudspeaker systems have been chosen for installation in Dublin’s Guinness Storehouse, one of Ireland’s leading visitor attractions. Three systems, designed and installed by d&b partner Acoustik to meet a new live music concept from John Brady Events, plus new installations in two other visitor zones, were meticulously planned and predicted using d&b’s ArrayCalc software, and employ d&b’s installation-specific xS-Series cabinets.

Guinness Storehouse is celebrating its 25th anniversary as an attraction this year, having pulled in over 25m visitors in that time.

In 2024, Guinness Storehouse was looking for innovative ways to further enhance that visitor experience. Their aim was to introduce a lively new element of culturally relevant activities. The question was, how could they add to the mix on offer

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25 June 2025

USA - The Grammy-nominated Common Kings have toured with A-list artists like Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars, and Meghan Trainor – headlining shows and festivals worldwide.

Audio engineer Tim Koch started working with the California-based Reggae group about four years ago, mixing some of their local events between tours. "I've been fortunate to be asked back as the band continues to grow," said Koch. "We've done some killer shows together. I've worked with them as an A2, monitor engineer, and occasional FOH as well."

Common Kings recently hosted a ‘takeover’ event at The House of Blues in Anaheim, CA - with the band hosting three separate shows in three different rooms within the venue for three consecutive days. The multi-room event proved to be an enormous technical hurdle, but nothing beyond what Koch and the team could handle.

"It too

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25 June 2025

Germany - The Ehrlich Brothers have been delighting a wide audience with their spectacular live shows for over a decade. Their new production, Diamonds, premiered in mid-November in Dortmund’s Westfalenhalle before visiting the largest arenas in Germany, where they have been presenting the best of their most popular illusions. With the help of lighting and stage technology, the successful magician duo is once again setting standards in the live entertainment world.

Thomas Gerdon (Gerdon Design) is once again responsible for the production design. He and his team have been accompanying the Ehrlich Brothers on their tours since 2019. For the Diamonds tour, Gerdon developed a new concept that intensifies the essence of magic through light. “If you have seen illusions before, it is all the more important to present them visually in a new an

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25 June 2025

Saudi Arabia - Luminex kicked off the festival season at the inaugural edition of A Thousand and One, Riyadh’s newest large-scale music festival.

Across five distinct stages, Qafilah, Sahaab, Bizar Bazar, Bustan, and Qasr, the festival hosted both world-class DJs and rising stars. Colour Sound Experiment provided complete lighting, video, and control solutions for all stages, backed by robust and intelligent networking infrastructure.

Each stage relies on a dependable network backbone built around Luminex GigaCore switches. Every stage has multiple racks: FOH, stage left, stage right – all connected via GigaCore switches’ ISL ports. Using Luminex’s RLinkX feature, the team created a redundant ring network with ultra-fast recovery, ensuring automatic fallback in case of link failure.

Each stage was routed to a dedicated backup