In an intensely contested international design competition, beyerdynamic has been selected to receive the prestigious Hannover Design Forum 2000 award for their S600 Handheld Wireless Microphone. The judges were impressed by the ergonomic design, attractive finish and the simple interchange between microphone heads to condenser, dynamic and shotgun lavalier microphones. Introduced in February '99, the S600 completes a range of products and accessories available for the U600 UHF wireless system which includes base stations, bodypack transmitters, bodypack receivers, antenna distribution systems as well as a computer interface and software for programming and monitoring of the radio frequency and audio frequency functions of the system.
Audio Toys Inc, a subsidiary of the ATI Group has released the Mini Paragon, a mixing console with all of the attributes of the now established Paragon II less 24 input channels. Like the Paragon II, the Mini Paragon is an automation-ready console: each input featuresan ATI patented compressor, a gate, and four bands of parametric EQ. Each channel has a variable direct out switchable between stereo or dual mono. Half of the 16 groups are stereo, with the remaining eight switchable between stereo or dual mono. The desk saw its first use on Canadian rocker Brian Adams' 34-date swing through Europe.
Alain Bardouil from White Butterflies Productions took delivery in December of the first Compulite SparkTop system. White Butterflies has owned a Spark system for several years primarily for controlling Hardware for Xenon projectors. The system had its first outing to St Brieuc in the North of Brittany for a Millennium night show controlling Hardware double image scroller projectors.
Cerwin Vega! has introduced the SUB-15, a compact, direct-radiating 15" sub-woofer which, the company claims, matches the performance of products usually twice the size and price. The high-powered enclosure (500W programme, 1000W peak) offers an attractive advantage to installers, say Cerwin. The SUB-15 is available exclusively in the UK through its distributor Lamba plc.
Jands Electronics has launched the new Hog 500 lighting console, a lower-budget version of the Echelon 1K, which was first shown at Entech 1998 in Sydney and has since been selling well worldwide. Features such as auto-menus and palettes for beam, colour, position and groups make initial programming of the Hog 500 fast and easy, while user-definable fixture libraries and auto-menus make patching and set-up very simple. Any cue can quickly be called from memory. 512 control channels are available, and a MIDI interface allows allows reception of MIDI show control, notes, timecode and command strings. A standard 3.5" floppy disk is available for show storage.
Multiform Electronics has added the DMX 424 - a 24-channel DMX decoder - to its range of control products. The mains-powered decoder is designed to provide the 10V DC analogue control signals essential for dimmer packs, colour-changers, effects lighting, smoke machines and special effects in systems using the DMX 512 control protocol. The 24 output channels can be set to provide control signals of 0 to +10 volts, or from 0 to -10 volts DC.The unit will decode a block of consecutively numbered channels and the BCD switches select the number of the first DMX channel. Other features include Watchdog and Rx data monitors, test programme and user back-up memory.
DPA Microphones is highlighting its new omnidirectional microphone at the Paris AES. The Type 3541 is a complete microphone kit for all kinds of high-quality solo recordings such as vocal performances, strings and wind instruments. The new 3541 is based on the same large-diaphragm capsule technology as the established gold model Type 4040 Hybrid Microphone. Supplied as a complete kit with suspension mount, windscreen and pop-filter, as well as the state-of-the-art Microphone Amplifier Type HMA4000 and a special microphone cable, the 3541 also introduces a completely new versatile modular capsule and preamplifier system. The capsule can be separated from the microphone preamp and the preamp exchanged, giving the engineer a choice between musical colouration of the Type MMP4000-T tube preamp, or the transparency of the solid state preamplifier Type MMP4000-S. Both are included in the micr
The BBC's Tomorrow's World programme last night featured a new development which, according to its designer, is capable of transmitting sound in a straight line Sound Beam is a new device which sends sound in a straight line - working on much the same principles as a spotlight. Designed by Joe Pompei, a researcher at MIT media lab in Boston, it can be used to relay audio to just one person in a crowd. Pompei's design is based upon high frequency ultrasound waves which are beyond our hearing which act like a 'carrier' for audible sound. His design combines music with ultrasound; this then recreates the complex wave patterns of the music at a much higher frequency that can't be heard. A specially designed speaker is then used to send out this high frequency ultrasound beam. Physical properties in the air then distort the beam producing a range of frequencies, including audible sound. The s
Strand Lighting has introduced the ParkNet lighting management and control system. A veteran of theme park lighting tasks with projects recently completed for Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Florida, several Cruise ships and a host of themed attractions, Strand has developed a sophisticated central control system that offers simple point and click access for the control of a wide range of facilities. The new ParkNet system incorporates control for up to 18,000 DMX devices whilst the systems graphic user interface accommodates scheduling of events and includes an astronomical time clock that precisely calculates sunrise and sunset, and can execute events related to those times.
Stanton has completed its new range of DJ mixer products, instituted with the takeover of the company by Gerard Cohen's Tracoman. Announced at the 1999 PLASA Show, four models are now in production, and available through UK distributors, Lamba plc. The SK ONE is a slim, two-channel unit, offering two line and two phono inputs, with gain, two-band EQ (+9/-26dB) and pan control on each channel. The SK TWO is another two-channel unit, offering two line and two phono inputs, with gain, three-band EQ (+9/-26dB) and pan control on each channel. The RM THREE is a three-channel professional DJ mixer, offering six line, three phono and two mic inputs, with gain, three-band EQ (+9/-26dB) and pan control on each channel, whilst the SK FIVE is a two-channel DJ mixer aimed at the budget-conscious customer.
Yamaha's famous PM series mixing consoles have now entered the digital domain, with the introduction of the company's new PM1D digital mixing console, designed specifically for live and installed sound applications. The CS1D control surface operates the DSP1D digital audio processor, which can either be located with the interface, or at a remote position. The PM1D can be configured in 48- or 96-channel versions, with 48 mix busses, 24 matrices and 12 DCAs. Conversion is 28-bit A/D and 27-bit D/A, and internal processing is 32-bit. Dual inputs are available on all channels. Other features of the lightweight, compact system include an ethernet-based comms system. All console-to-stage control signals are transmitted via one 68-pin cable per 32 channels and three ethernet cables.
Audient plc has released three new variants of its ASP8024 console, along with news of a number of additional options. Frames to accommodate 24-, 48- and 60-input channels have been added to the original 36-channel frame size. An integral patchbay has also become an option and has been fitted with Neutrik bantam jack sockets and a D-Sub based studio systems interface. 144 tie lines are included as standard. A producer's table for applications requiring a dedicated script space can also be specified. The first 48-channel consoles shipped to UK and Dutch studios in December and a pair of 24-channel consoles will be delivered in early February, for use in mobile classical recording.
Turbosound's latest loudspeaker management system, the LMS-D6, is now shipping. Based on the XTA DP226, it is a compact and powerful DSP-based programmable crossover, supplied with factory-loaded programmes for use with Turbosound Flashlight, Floodlight, QLight, and HiLight series loudspeaker enclosures, and TFM series floor monitors.One of the first large purchases was by AVAB-CAC in Norway, which has 12 LMS-D6 units in daily use with Flashlight and Floodlight on events and tours. Asle Nilsen, AVAB-CAC's managing director commented: "The sound quality is fantastic - the LMS-D6 has made Floodlight sound like a new system."
New units and accessories have been added to the Scanner range of budget radio microphone systems, distributed in the UK by John Hornby Skewes & Co. The Scanner S3 non-diversity single-channel VHF radio microphone system features quartz-locked, fixed-frequency operation (160 - 250MHz), with a compact half-rack receiver unit. Dynamic range is rated at >100dB.Also new to the range, the Scanner S4-AD plug-in system converts any wired microphone with an XLR connector, dynamic or electret format, to full wireless operation, providing around 15 hours of operation time from a single 9v battery.
Yamaha has announced the availability of the D24 digital multi-track recorder and the CDR1000 professional CD recorder. The D24 is a 24-bit, 96kHz professional system aimed at recording, editing, mastering and post production applications for television and film. Based on 3.5" magneto-optical disks, the D24 offers 16-bit, 20-bit and 24-bit eight-track simultaneous record and play capability at 48kHz and four-track record and play at 96kHz.The CDR1000 CD recorder is a 2U rack-mount audio recorder providing both record and re-write, sample rate converter and word clock input, aimed at studio / pro recording markets.
Spirit by Soundcraft will be launching the new 324 Live digital console at the LIVE! Show at Alexandra Palace, London, on 9-10 February. The 324 Live is a fully-featured digital desk in a characteristically compact frame.
Cliff Electronic Components has developed a new range of jack sockets with innovative features. The S1 mini Stack jack receives both mono and stereo quarter-inch jacks, with patented Nickel-Silver alloy self-cleaning contacts for superior performance. The narrow body of dual stacked versions offers high board packing densities (2:1). The S1V (vertical mount) sockets also offer optional chassis grounding versions, grounding chassis to plug and PCB. Life expectancy is a minimum of 10,000+ operations.
Sennheiser is showing a number of new products at AES Paris. The Digital 1090 is a fully digital wireless microphone system which claims crystal clear audio transmission, due to its FSK modulated digital audio signals at 900MHz and the absence of a compander system. The Digital 1090 is particularly suited to complex instruments such as guitars, where extra LF response and HF transients are produced. Sennheiser is also showing the MKH 800 studio condenser microphone, which offers 50kHz HF recording capability - unique in a switchable polar pattern condenser microphone, say Sennheiser.
Sensorcom has launched a range of in-ear products including Micro-Monitors, incorporating new Sony drivers, and Pico Monitors, which fit into the ear canal when a discreet acoustic device is required. Sensorcom has also introduced a new mould for use with bud style ear drivers - the Sqidgy Range. Made from and ultra-soft Platinum-cured silicon, the Sqidgy moulds combine ultimate comfort with durability and are available in a wide range of colours.
Triflite Cases, a division of Trifibre Containers International Ltd, has introduced new lightweight shock mounted 19" rack flight cases to its range. The cases incorporate a new lightweight aluminium floating frame suspended by eight rubber suspension mounts. Vertical rack mounting strips on the front and rear of the units allow standard 19" rackmounted equipment to be fixed in any position.
Tannoy has introduced the first Active Ceiling Mounted Subwoofer, engineered to render extended, low frequency reinforcement and impact from a concealed position in installations such as retail outlets, theme pubs and clubs. The CMS110B has been designed to fit unobtrusively into a 2ft x 2ft ceiling tile opening and utilises standard air-conditioning covers in place of speaker grilles for additional concealment.Featuring an adjustable low and high frequency filter and EQ boost, the CMS110B also possesses phase and earth lift switching, in addition to gain control. Furthermore, the speaker's long excursion 10" bass transducer is powered by a 110W amplifier with compressor limiting overload protection and fully balanced dual inputs and outputs.
HW International has announced additions to the Phonic Powerpod range of mixer-amplifiers for small to medium PA applications - the Powerpod 1860 and 1060. The 1860 features eight input channels and insert points for out board processing devices. The built-in two-channel power amp can be configured to any of three different modes: 2 x 300W stereo (FOH), 2 x 300W stereo (FOH/monitors) and 600W bridged mono. Other features include a built-in digital effects device offering 255 effects programs, and two seven-band graphics – one per amp module. The 1060 meanwhile offers eight mic and 10 line inputs, a tape-in and out, a built-in digital effects package and three power amp modules offering a choice of two modes: 2 x 200W stereo FOH plus 200W monitors, or 400W mono (FOH) bridged plus 200W monitors.
Tannoy's new B225 15" direct-radiating bass speaker is aimed at installations where live sound reinforcement requires extended bass response from a compact cabinet. Making an ideal companion to Tannoy's successful i/T series speakers, the B225's power handling is rated at 400-800W/8 ohms, and integrated M8 flying points make for easy installation.
White Light has released a new, safe and fully rated solution to a standard lighting problem: rigging sidelighting on a lighting ladder. Until now, adjustable lighting ladders have generally been adjustable frameworks constructed from scaffolding. However, the advent of the new Lifting Of Loads and Equipment Regulations (LOLER), which came into force during 1998, means that this solution is no longer acceptable. Under the guidance of Richard Wilson, the company has designed a new adjustable ladder system, christened the LOLER Ladder. It consists of 2m vertical tube sections with spigots to accept cross-pieces at spacings suitable for commonly used conventional and moving lights. Cross pieces are fitted onto and then bolted to these spigots to form ladders with the desired rung spacing and, since standard diameter pipe is used throughout, lanterns can then be hung on the ladder using thei
