Out Board Electronics, the manufacturer of sound and power control products, is to go into creditors voluntary liquidation. The Cambridge-based company, founded in 1987, has designed and developed a number of audio control systems, most notably the award-winning TiMax matrix system, together with the SS2 fader automation system, the Octopus automated sound effects console and the QP4 manual quad panner. A shareholders’ meeting will be held on 30 November ar 10.30am when a resolution to wind up the company voluntarily will be proposed and a liquidator appointed.

Directors of the company include managing director Robin Whittaker, operations director John Drake and commercial director David Haydon, who joined the company from BSS Audio in July 2000.

Further information can be obtained from chartered accountants Martin Sklan & Co, telephone +44 (0)20 8455 8248

Peter Boizot MBE, the man who made his fortune from Pizza Express, has unveiled his opulent new leisure extravaganza - a £15 million restoration of Peterborough’s Odeon cinema, as part of a larger, fully-featured leisure complex.

Architect Tim Foster set about fulfilling Boizot’s dream of recapturing the splendour of traditional cinema in a state-of-the-art modern facility.

Strand luminaires, control and networking components form the lighting backbone in the 1,200-capacity art deco auditorium - specified by Northern Light, who won a competitive tender issued by Theatre Projects Consultants. Northern Light also undertook all the house electrical contracting, working with builder Marriot Construction, while for the specialist lighting they reported directly to Peter Boizot’s company, Mistvalley Ltd over the duration of the 10-month contract. The lighting designer on

TSC Music has announced a new partnership with Smith and Western Restaurants. TSC recently fitted out Smith and Western’s restaurant at Boxhill, Surrey with a state-of-the-art Hard Disc music management system to select and play the finest in country music to enhance the restaurant’s ambience. TSC will also be providing similar music systems to restaurants at Chichester and Horsham in the near future.

Douglas Scheller, TSC account manager for Smith and Western said: "When Smith & Western met TSC at a recent exhibition they were looking for a music system that was not only more reliable than their existing CD players but one that could virtually run itself. They also required very specialist country and western music to create the correct atmosphere in their authentic American themed restaurants. The perfect solution was our soundserver hard disc player, which is design

Known for decades as ‘Hollywood’s talent factory,’ the legendary Pasadena Playhouse launched the careers of dozens of notable actors, writers and directors. But in recent years, the Playhouse’s ageing audio system had fallen far short of the venue’s tradition of excellence. To design a new system on rather short notice, Tom Ware, producing director for the Playhouse, called on independent sound designer and audio engineer Rick Boot. Working closely with Lori Burke at Delicate Productions in Camarillo, Boot created a system design based around Martin Audio Wavefront loudspeakers. The main left and right systems each comprise two Martin Wavefront W8C full-range three-way cabinets augmented by a single W8CS bass cabinet. A removable centre cluster utilizes two Martin Wavefront Theatre WT3 three-way systems. Sub-bass comes from a pair of discreetly-placed Martin

A cast of hundreds, with armies, horses, camels and even an eagle: this was the ‘mega-opera’ spectacular ‘Aida’ staged for a sell-out crowd of 78,000 at the Stade de France in Paris. The huge circular football stadium, home to the last World Cup, is an unusual setting for Verdi’s monumental opera, but Dutch production company Companions Opera took full advantage of the 75m x 120m pitch, presenting a 130-piece choir, the 90-piece Radio France Philharmonic Orchestra, and more than 550 extras.

Louis Buskens was responsible for the choir (from the Sofia Opera House in Bulgaria), who would be moving around as well as singing during the performance. The job of choreography was critical because of the microphone technique: a DPA 4061 miniature mic was mounted on the shoulder of every fourth choir member, for his or her own voice and that of three other singers. S

BassBox Pro and X.Over Pro are a suite of programs designed to give the constructor a hassle-free method of constructing their own speaker cabinets.

BassBox Pro has a selection of seven cabinet styles with user-customizable parameters including dimensions, driver choice and vented or enclosed styles. A wide variety of drivers are available from including single, dual and three-way cone drivers and flat radiators. The BassBox software is aimed at the home/semi-professional constructor looking to build cabinets for the home hi-fi, small venue or car.

To this end the software has a section depicting typical home and car acoustics to help the constructor choose their design. X.Over Pro is a standalone crossover design program that is quite comprehensive and allows the user to design their own crossovers or modify examples. All parameters are calculated and response graphs updated as va

Arbiter Group has launched the ProVocal from dbx Professional. The ProVocal is a unique, dedicated and powerful vocal processor, featuring state-of-the-art microphone and preamp modelling, award winning compression and dynamic effects, a 24bit digital effects section and a selectable 44.1 or 48Khz digital output. There are 18 microphone models and 10 microphone pre-amp models. Effects include compressor and de-esser, as well as chorus, flanger, delay parametric EQ and reverb. The ProVocal features a 24-bit, 44.1 or 48kHz digital S/PDIF output and is MIDI controllable.

Marquee Audio hs supplied a Trantec S5000 8-way radio system - including CTX handheld transmitters, active antenna distribution units (ADUs) and splitters - as part of a communications upgrade at The International Convention Centre in Birmingham. Currently celebrating its 10th anniversary, the ICC is a long-standing customer of Marquee Audio, who in turn are main dealers for the Trantec award-winning UHF diversity systems. The order was placed by the venue's technical facilities manager, Paul Dipple, for use in the main Hall 1 of their 11-hall complex. "We use several radio systems throughout the Centre and we systematically identify products for upgrade," said Dipple. "In this instance price wasn’t an issue - we bought the Trantecs purely on the quality of the product."

Having carried out their own research the ICC arrived at their decision after witnessing t

SigNET AC Ltd, an electronics manufacturer in Tyne and Wear has been named North East regional winner in the Trade Partners UK National Languages for Export Awards 2001, in the category for small business, sponsored by NCM credit Insurance. The company won the award for noticeably changing its attitude and ways of doing business in a number of export markets.

The company which specializes in the design and manufacture of voice alarm, paging and background music systems, believed that early exporting initiatives were conducted tentatively. Richard Sice, marketing manager said: "In order to be more competitive in international markets we have taken a strategic approach to the use of our human resources and polices. We have taken steps to hire people with native language skills and also to employ UK graduates who have studied a foreign language. In addition, we are taking a fresh loo

Adam Hall has announced the opening of their new Spanish sales office, based in Barcelona. The company has been targeting the Spanish market for the past two years in preparation for this event and says it is confident, even in the current economic climate, that this is the right way forward. The Spanish sales office contact is Gabriel Medrano Bultel, known as 'G' to his friends and colleagues. Bultel has been with Adam Hall for two years and has become and important member of the team in this time.

Adam Hall can be reached in Spain on tel: +34 93 213 3644.

In the wake of the recent launch of Midas's latest innovation, the Legend 3000, the Klark Teknik Group hosted a two-day event at their Kidderminster factory for over 30 customers of EVI France in order to introduce them to the new console. The company also took the opportunity to present an in-depth, hands-on demonstration of the Klark Teknik DN9848 loudspeaker processor, as well as give their guests a full factory tour.

Guest enjoyed both presentations and the factory tour with ample opportunities for Q&A sessions in just one afternoon. Delegates were shown a full DVD presentation of the new Legend console in French, and French-speaking staff were on hand throughout in order to minimize communication difficulties. According to EVI France's Cecile Dehlinger: "Events like this where we can really concentrate one-on-one with our customers and offer them the opportunity to meet the m

With 15 years' experience, principally in the professional audio industry, Aviva Ozin has finally fulfilled her life-long ambition and set up Faith Communications, a consultancy offering PR and marketing services.

After a long association with the Autograph group of companies, working for both the sales and the sound design and rental divisions, Aviva has an in-depth understanding of the industry. She has also worked in the recording sector, prior to a two-year break from the industry, as the communications manager of a humanitarian aid organisation. In her new role, Aviva continues her association with the Autograph group, which has become one of Faith Communications' first clients. The consultancy is also talking with several other pro audio-related businesses and has recently won a contract from a company operating in the leisure sector.

In addition to its PR and consultancy servi

London-based sound rental company Thames Audio has recently purchased eight QSC PL236 (PowerLight 2 series) amplifiers from UK distributor HW International. These will be used to power its Funktion One system comprising Resolution 2 and Resolution 4 touring loudspeakers and F218 self-powered subwoofers.

Thames Audio’s technical director Graham Simpson commented: "When we first heard the Resolution Series at Funktion One, we decided unanimously that this was the only speaker system for us! It’s superb musicality was complemented by the PL236's dynamic delivery, which was a noticeable improvement on our existing switchmode amplifier stock. Our choice of amplifier also conforms in general to the touring preference of existing Resolution users." Since the purchase, Thames Audio have utilized the equipment on Brian Conley’s UK tour and for Hedwig at the Edinburgh

The Production Services Association (PSA) is arranging a series of informal get-togethers around the country to enable its members to share stories and network with others in the industry. The first of these regional meetings will be held at Vari-Lite’s Greenford premises on Tuesday 11th December at 7.00pm. Those attending will have a chance to view the company’s facilities and see how it is tackling the challenges of 2002. The evening will also feature a demonstration of Vari-Lite’s new lighting systems in the demo room.

Anyone interested in attending should contact Keith Owen on 0121 693 7109 or e-mail keith@psa.org.uk.

Nady Systems, one of the world's largest wireless microphone manufacturers, has introduced a cost-competitive UHF package via its recently-appointed exclusive UK distributor, Lamba plc. Lamba see the UHF-10 as being one of the best value-for-money products on the market, the system offering all the advantages of clear-channel operation on the uncluttered UHF band (operating between 794-805MHz). Featuring the full 120dB dynamic range, the UHF-10 promises a typical operating range of 250ft - extending to up to 500ft in open areas.

Features of the UHF-10 receiver include DigiTRU Diversity for maximum range and drop-out protection, Tone Squelch for locking out potential interference; noiseless transmitter; both quarter-inch unbalanced and balanced XLR outputs and full LED indicators. The BodyPack Transmitter (UB-10) features: Off/Standby/On switch; low battery LED indicator; locking 3.5mm

Roxy Music’s world tour came to a close in late September, having reminded sell-out audiences across the globe of what they were missing during the bands 18-year separation. The three-month circuit of dates, which included appearances in Canada, USA, Australia and Europe received great critical acclaim for the quality of its sound, which was achieved by front-of-house engineer Levi Tecofski, with the help of Audio-Technica microphones.

A huge logistical operation, the show occupied over 70 input channels across two desks, with Bryan Ferry employing three separate vocal positions alone. Main stage and piano positions were handled by AT4054s and an ATW7373 handheld radio mic was in place at the keyboard. Also on an AT4054 vocal mic was principle pianist Colin Good, while the guitar amps of Phil Manzanera and Chris Speading were taken care of by AT4047s. For drummer Paul Thompson, T

Yesterday, Pioneer introduced to the world its first Pro DJ 19" rack-mount mixer; the DJM-3000. To ensure the widest possible music-making flexibility, the DJM-3000 is equipped with an industry-first Effect Mix Mode that easily and accurately effects phrases in a BPM-linked operation along with an improved auto beat effector. In addition to Echo and Zip, Pioneer has come up with a new effect, 'Roll'. This runs a mix while changing the pitch of the song up the chromatic scale to the beat of the music.

The Auto BPM Counter automatically measures and digitally displays a track's BPM (measurement range: 70-139 / 91-180 / 70-180 / Manual) allowing the user to merge one song into another smoothly. Tapping on the TAP button enables the user to manually input BPMs of tracks that are difficult to measure. DJs can now see the music beat, making it faster and easier to mix tracks with differ

When Britannia Row were asked by MJK Productions to provide sound equipment for an event jointly hosted by Cadbury's and Popworld late in October, little did they know what a prestigious line up of bands would be there. The shows, held at the Hammersmith and Manchester Apollo venues, were private affairs for an invited audience of around 6,000 young pop fans, the winners in a national Cadbury's 'back of the packet' competition. The envy of many, the lucky fans were entertained by Westlife, S Club 7, Blue, Mis-Teeq and Jo Breezer in a stunning show compèred by Neil 'Doctor' Fox.

"It was a bit like the old BBC 'Crackerjack' show with bags of goodies and fun stuff between the major acts," said Mick Kluczinski of MJK, a regular user of Brit Row equipment: "They provide the kit and people I need, when I need them." Said Kluczinski. "This time, after previously test

CIE-Audio has once again received the award for the world's leading Inter-M distributor. As part of a network of 94 distributors in 72 countries throughout Europe, America, Asia, Africa, Middle East and Australasia, Nottingham-based CIE-Audio exclusively distribute the complete commercial audio, pro sound and CCTV product ranges from Inter-M. "The latest news of our Inter-M sales figures exceeding all other distributors throughout the world reflects not only our commitment to the brand, but also the popularity of the product range within the UK market," said Chris Edwards, CIE-Group marketing manager. "This will be our 10th consecutive year as the Number 1 distributor and, for such a small country to provide the highest sales figures is an acknowledgement of the dedication and hard work our staff continue to provide."

The news of CIE-Audio's achievement comes as th

Former Audix, Delta Sound and Federal Signal Sales Manager, Charles Turner, has been appointed UK field sales manager by SigNET. Charles will be responsible for sales of the SigNET range of products, including a new loop amplifier and voice alarm system, throughout the UK. He has been involved in the voice alarm/public address industry for the last 10 years and has been successful in securing key projects including Manchester Airport, Birmingham Airport, the Commonwealth pool and many projects for ADT Fire and Security and Siemens Cerberus.

Telford-based broadcast sound equipment hire company Soundsense has announced a series of cuts to its hire charges to make it easier for Restricted Service Licence operators get on the air. The cuts mean that prices have fallen by an average of 14% across the board. To help bring the cost of transmission to an all-time low, Soundsense have introduced the Broadcast Warehouse TX20 20W transmitter to its hire fleet. With internal RDS encoder and on-board compressor limiter, Soundsense are offering 'ready to go' stereo transmission packages from just £250 (inc VAT) per month. The new transmitters make their debut as part of the equipment package being supplied to Red Dragon Rally FM, the RSL station for the Network Q Rally which is on air from 21-25 November.

Soundsense's Derek Tallent told us: "We're aware of just how tough it's becoming in the current economic climate to get an RSL

A newly-appointed Icelandic distributor of Baldwin Boxall's has recently purchased 12 Vigil Eclipse Voice Alarm systems for installation in a new shopping complex in Reykjavik, Iceland. HT&T visited International Fire Expo (May 2001) where they met with Baldwin Boxall, who were giving the recently-launched Vigil Eclipse its UK debut. HT&T thought the Eclipse was the perfect solution to the Smaralind Shopping Complex's voice alarm (VA) requirements as the wall-mounting unit is simple to commission and easy to install. The 12 Vigil Eclipses were built in Baldwin Boxall's factory in Sussex and shipped to Iceland, ready for installation - a very quick process for HT&T, saving them valuable on-site time.

Vigil Eclipse is a stand-alone, wall-mountable system, which can operate up to four zones of VA - all dual circuit if required. The system, which utilises Baldwin Boxall's well established

Leading London-based rental company John Henry's Ltd has just taken delivery of a batch of QSC Powerlight amplifiers to upgrade their main PA racks. The purchase of the PL236 and PL6 units came after a lengthy evaluation of a number of different amplifiers with their existing EAW speaker system. "Having expanded our main EAW KF850 system at our sister operation in Dubai, we shipped our existing amp racks out to power it," said Aden Gregory, JHL's Audio rental department manager. "This gave us the opportunity to review our amplifier stock. We decided to check out a range of different switch-mode power amplifiers and after extensively testing a number of brands we chose the Powerlights from QSC. We were surprised that the PL6.0PFC weighing only 59lbs could deliver so much energy and have such a fast recovery rate. Not only do they sound excellent but they also have the added

Digital Audio Research Limited (DAR) has launched the Trigger Audio Replay System, building on its innovative workstation and disk-recorder technology to create a unique, flexible and powerful system for live television productions, as well as for radio and live theatre. Ideally suited to game show applications, Trigger provides easy-to-use instant-play facilities, allowing sound effects, music segments and voice-overs to be managed from a single system.

Trigger offers the the ability to record, edit, assign and replay audio segments from within a single-screen display. Mono and stereo audio segments can be assigned across up to four stereo outputs, with segments sequenced as four separate Playlists, or triggered individually by the 32 instant-play Trigger keys. Specific segments can be programmed for triggering by external switching - including contestants' and presenters' buttons, an

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