Spain - Allen & Heath's digital processing system, iDR, was utilised on theSpanish version of the TV programme, Hell's Kitchen. Entitled Esta Cocina es un Infierno, the programme ran for ten weeks with a weekly live primetime show and daily catch-up shows.

Each week, two teams of celebrities led by renowned chefs Sergi Arola and Mario Sandoval, were tasked with preparing a menu for 25 people, whilst living together in a reality TV house for the duration of the programme. An iDR-8 16x16 matrix mixing processor and iDR-In and iDR-Out expander units were installed to manage the audio distribution to and from all the zones around the house set.

None of the competitors carried microphones, instead AT3031 Audio-Technica microphones were installed throughout the living space, monitoring the housemates 24 hours a day.

(Chris Henry)

USA - The 121st Audio Engineering Society Convention held from October 5-8, 2006 at San Francisco's Moscone Center saw the first showing in the US of Turbosound's new addition to its award-winning Aspect loudspeaker system, the digitally self-powered TA-500DP.

A new generation of professional lightweight, network-controlled Class D power amplifiers is at the heart of the three-way full range TA-500DP. Its DSP is based on a Sharc processor utilising a 96kHz sampling rate and is controlled over a network via the BVNet protocol.

The TA-500DP's amplifier module offers typical operating efficiency in excess of 90%, contributing to a lighter and more manageable product. The module incorporates sophisticated DSP, including active crossovers, output limiters and impedance monitoring, making up a completely self-contained and optimised audio system that requires only a line level sign

Germany - With the DSM 2060 Software PodWare, HK Audio introduces the suitable PC remote control for the DSM 2060 Controller. The DSM 2060 Controller is a digital controller for touring- and fixed installation applications. With the HFT Hardman Filter Technology, it meets high-end-audio requirements and features high-quality 24 bit/ 96 kHz transformers as well as two inputs and six outputs which can be used individually for FOH and monitor applications in the touring segment as well as in fixed installations. Beside this, in every in- and output, there are six parametric EQs and two additional shelving filters available for the optimal adjustment to the system requirements. The controller features the suitable filter presets for all HK Audio touring- and installation systems.

With the DSM 2060 Software PodWare, the HK Audio DSM 2060 Controller can be connected to a PC and remote

UK - Community Professional Loudspeakers now provides a convenient and safesystem for suspending single enclosures from its CPL, XLTE, Solutions and iBOX ranges. The Community Seat Track Kit is suitable for any installation, but particularly useful for venues like theatres, where loudspeaker positions may change, and for temporary installations such as corporate presentations and exhibitions.

Each STKIT includes four seat track channels and both M10 Metric and 3/8-16 Unified Course (UNC) threaded fasteners for the installer's convenience. All parts in the STKIT are engineered to provide a high margin of safety. Each seat track channel is load rated at 350 lbs with a 15:1 safety factor. The channels are manufactured of milled aluminium and are anodized black. By purchasing multiple seat track kits, one enclosure may be suspended over another.

(Chris Henry)

UK - One of the first of DiGiCo's new D5T12 consoles - designed specifically for theatre productions where space is at a premium - is already at work, touring throughout the UK with the stage production of Me And My Girl.

The D5T12 was delivered to Cardiff-based Stage Sound Services in August and was immediately whisked off to the tour's first show at the Theatre Royal Plymouth, on 1 September. Indeed, so hot off the press is the new console that the show was actually programmed on the prototype console at DiGiCo's UK offices.

Designed in association with theatrical sound designer Bobby Aitken, the new console is a hybrid of the already successful D5T digital theatre mixing system. The D5T12 provides 12 output faders, rather than the standard eight, to provide more VCF control within the standard console surface and footprint.

Having purchased a DiGiCo D1 console from

UK/Iran - Allen & Heath has appointed a new distributor, Shidco, to exclusivelymanage the sales, distribution and service of Allen & Heath product lines in Iran.

"Shidco ticks all the right boxes - existing distribution lines with respected brand names, impressive in-store representation, and proven sales and after-service records - offering a very attractive partnership agreement, and excellent prospects for Allen & Heath in this territory," says Allen & Heath's sales director, Bob Goleniowski.

With over 30 years' experience, Shidco is recognised as a leading importer and distributor of pro audio, visual and lighting systems in Iran. Moreover, the company owns some stores in Tehran and other cities of Iran, manned by highly qualified staff who are dedicated to providing prompt sales and immediate after sales services as well as training programmes to customers.

Sh

USA - FOH Engineer Dave Rat and his company, Rat Sound Systems, has worked on The Red Hot Chili Peppers' tours for nearly two decades now.

For the Peppers' most recent album, Stadium Arcadium, Rat Sound chose to augment its L-Acoustics amplifier arsenal with the addition of two dozen more LA48s to drive the tour's V-Dosc and dV-Dosc rig.

"After the June 2004 European stadium tour with the Peppers, where we used nine local vendors for shows in a dozen countries, I was able to get a good idea of the similarities and differences between the three amp types used in Europe," says Rat. "Though the differences in audio were relatively subtle, our decision to use the LA48 amplifiers was ultimately based on the fact that they greatly reduced our overall touring weight without any sonic sacrifice whatsoever."

For the current Stadium Arcadium outing, t

USA - Launched at London's PLASA Show in September, TurboDrive network control software - a new software package from Turbosound that will help to make the jobs of live sound engineers easier - was also shown for the first time in the US at the 121st Audio Engineering Society Convention at San Francisco's Moscone Centre from 5 to 8 October.

The TurboDrive package gives online access and fast, intuitive control of Turbosound controllers and powered speakers, either individually or in a BVNet network of up to 100 devices.

User control of input EQ, delay and mute is available, while key factory settings such as limiters and driver correction are locked out to ensure maximum flexibility to the user, whilst maintaining consistent voicing and driver protection in the field.

Every parameter of an LMS-D2X controller is allowed, either by typing in exact values or by using on-screen

UK - Clear-Com, a Vitec Group brand and global leader of intercom solutions has introduced a new choice of service contracts and extended warranties for customers.

While Clear-Com products are recognised throughout the live performance and broadcast industry for their construction and reliability, with the increasing complexity of systems, Clear-Com has decided to enhance their after sales service with a choice of service contracts and extended warranties. These new services ensure complete customer confidence through a dedicated global support team, says the company.

The Clear-Com Service Contract can now run for three or five years and is available as an optional service, to all customers. Key features include: technical customer on site training; a maintenance visit; an annual site visit and system service check; global 24 x 7 technical, multi-lingual customer support desk;

South Africa - d&b audiotechnik have appointed Stage Audio Works as a new distributor based in Port Elizabeth, South Africa.

"We started in business seventeen years ago", said Stage Audio Works founder Will Deysel. "Back then there was no one providing a repair service for loudspeaker systems, spares from overseas were just not available, so I started the country's first domestic re-cone and repair company, making everything ourselves."

Deysel, a sound engineer, soon found a ready demand for his business, "It grew and grew, I now have good, well established partners in the three main cities of Johannesburg, Durban and Cape town; the downside is I no longer get much chance to engineer, but I still do bits and pieces to keep my ear in." Keeping his ear in is what led Deysel to d&b audiotechnik, "I'd noticed more and more technical riders coming

Legendary reverb manufacturer Lexicon (Harman Pro) presented two new products, seen for the first time in Europe. The MX400 and MX400XL are both four-in four-out hardware reverb units for studio and live use. The 1U rack-mounted units have an independent processor on each channel, with the only difference between the units being the connectors on the XL sporting XLRs while the 400 is fitted with quarter-inch TRS jacks. The four inputs and outputs also allow for surround processing and effects are included, making the units an affordable way to enter the surround sound processing arena.

Roland Systems Group and its Digital Snake system has been gaining market share since its relatively recent launch. On display at the show was a new interface for the unit, an AES/EBU module with internal and external sync' options and word clock. Also on display for the RSS was a REAC (Roland's Ethernet data transfer technology) ASIO driver, allowing 40 channels of audio to be connected directly into a PC and into a multi-track recording system - in this case Cakewalk's SONAR 5 or 6.

Nestling unassumingly in a nearby rack were the AR-3000R and AR200R audio announcement system. The AR-3000R will record, playback and edit samples for announcements and voice alarms, while the AR-200 is a half-rack playback-only version.

Mackie proudly displayed its new flagship subwoofer at PLASA. The SWA2801z 18" Active is said to provide greater performance than mere 'powered' loudspeakers. Mackie's Active electronics are customised for each new product, providing monitoring and real-time control over critical functions such as crossover and equalisation. The SWA2801z can be stacked or pole-mounted and can be easily integrated with other full-range Mackie products.

For the club scene, Mackie previewed its new four-channel mixer, the d.4 Pro. Due for launch in early 2007, the mixer features Onyx mic preamps, VCA and analogue filter effects and 3-band EQ.

UK - Duncan Payne has been appointed client development manager for Charter Broadcast, reporting directly to managing director Michael Breen. Payne joins Charter from Mitcorp, where he spent over six years, and was responsible for selling top end broadcast equipment in to the rental and outside broadcast markets. Having joined Mitcorp as a sales executive, and progressing to become sales manager, Payne brings a wealth of industry knowledge and expertise, the company says.

At Charter, Payne will focus on developing its already successful dry hire business further by broadening the market it currently services. He will be overseeing Charter's disposals policy, ensuring that Charter reinforces its reputation as a quality supplier of quality equipment. He comments: "I am delighted to be joining Charter Broadcast at such an exciting time. I have worked with Charter many times ov

The Netherlands - The Ampco / Flashlight Group (AFG) has announced the appointment of Dick van Berkum as its managing director from October 1 2006, succeeding industry pioneer Eric de Bruijn.

Van Berkum, a chartered accountant and a well-known figure in the industry, began working for AFG in February 2006 as financial director with a growing involvement in the group's management. His remit is to continue the strategy and policy developed over recent years, while bringing his considerable corporate, financial and organisational experience to help the Group achieve its ambitions.

The group's strategy encompasses both regional growth and diversification of services to meet the demands of the evolving entertainment market. AFG's activities already include sales, rentals, distribution, R&D and manufacturing of sound, lighting, video and rigging.Karel de Piere says: "AFG has a

JBL (Harman Pro), never short of a few new products, didn't fail to please at PLASA, announcing two new additions to its product line in the form of the VRX915M 15" wedge to complement the VRX9000 constant curvature array, as well as the MRX500 lightweight, passive, portable PA system aimed at gigging musicians. Three monitors - the MRX512M, MRX515 and MRX525 - and two subs - the MRX518S and MRX528S complete the line-up.

Ecler's new products - distributed in the UK by MilTec - included the AC6 19" mixer, the Ambit 108 low impedance 100Volt line speaker and the Philos 10A active speaker. Also showing was their DPA, MPA, XPA and DJ amplifiers.

Adam Hall, hardware distributors for pretty much anything you can think of, were showing products from spanish manufacturer Beyma Loudspeakers, for whom they have recently become UK resellers. The Beyma products included new Neodymium and specialised line array drivers. There was also the ASUB-15 from LD Systems; a 400W sub cabinet with built-in limiter and 100Hz crossover along with a selection of other products from the company's extensive catalogue. Finally, the company's SM707 adjustable angle top-hat received a commendation from the judges in the Awards for Innovation.

Managing director Bob Mundy did well off the stand, too - winning the limited edition lithograph of the original score of Yesterday, signed by Sir Paul McCartney and Sir George Martin, in PLASA's prize draw!

Funktion One were showing a full range of products at this year's PLASA Show. The company, who are continuing to make more of their range self-powered, showed the F221 double 21" sub-bass, in addition to the imposing Dance Stack. Additionally, the purple people demonstrated their production versions of the RM12 and RM15 self-powered stage monitors.

Cornered Audio Systems definitely win the show prize for most ingenious use of a product number. Director Hans Madsen detailed the 90 and 60° dispersion corner-mounted C90TRM and C60TRM respectively: "These speakers can mount in the corner of a room without brackets and subsequently are very discrete," he said, adding that the TRM stood for 'The Real McCoy'!

To complement the TRMs, Madsen also demonstrated the Sub Bass Seat, C12PNC or 'Puffy not Cornered' floor-mounted sub. The cabinet, which can be screwed into the floor, is sure to make anyone's night - even without dancing!

If vinyl and CDs are too old-school, then the iDJ could be right up your street. If you are rich enough to own two iPods of any flavour, then the iDJ will allow you to mix them via integrated docking stations and providesS-Video output should you be lucky enough to own a video iPod. However, if iPods are too easy to lose or break, then the HDX Hard Drive Turntable could well be the way to go. A removable 80GB drive allows storage of thousands of songs while the full size platter provides the real feel of vinyl.

On the other hand, if audio isn't your thing then the VJ01 DVD/CD/MP3 player allows pitch, loop, cue, zoom, angle and slo mo control of many audio and video formats. With a built-in screen for monitoring and preview the VJ01 is ideal for the mobile VJ.

Cadac Electronics unveiled its much-anticipated S-Digital mixing console, designed specifically for theatre sound applications. Reflecting the surface architecture of Cadac's J-Type analogue console, its basic configuration offers a minimum spec of 72 input channels, 66 mix busses, and three stereo listen busses.

The S-Digital's key features include: single or multi-operator control with multiple listen systems provided as standard; the ability to configure multiple control surfaces within a single mixing system, allowing control over all console parameters from multiple locations (such as control room and FOH pit, or FOH and monitor); a proprietary high-speed communications protocol; hot swappable input and output modules. Shipping is scheduled for October 2006.

dbx (Harman Pro) announced the launch of the new DriveRack 4820 at the PLASA show. Featuring a 96kHz processing engine, HiQnet and optional CobraNet control the system processor includes a wealth of new algorithms, EQ, delay, classic dbx compression and limiting as well as bandpass and crossover filters. With four inputs and eight outputs, the 4820 is flexible enough to be used in many different installations.

Dolby/Lake Technology won a PLASA Award for Innovation for the Dolby Lake Processor, which provides advanced control and flexibility of complex speaker systems for live events, fixed installations and studio settings. Easy to integrate into any audio system, the processor's software interface is intuitive, and thanks to innovative four front-panel portals and a wireless tablet, engineers can monitor a system easily, making adjustments in real-time.

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