USA - JBL Professional announced at NAMM the introduction of its EON210P Portable PA system, a complete powered system that is compact, lightweight and simple to use.

"Our new EON210P makes it easy to enjoy great sound almost anywhere. It's ideal for live music, schools, churches, presentations, parties or anywhere you need clear, powerful sound," noted Richard Ruse, JBL director of marketing for portable PA. "And because it's so intuitive you don't need to be an audio pro to use the EON210P - you can be up and running in just a few minutes."

The JBL EON210P includes two 10-inch, two-way speakers, an eight-channel powered stereo mixer with four digital effects, two 15ft speaker cables and a convenient storage compartment for microphones and accessories. The mixer and storage compartment attach to the rear of the speakers, allowing for ease of movement when

USA / Japan - Peavey Electronics this week announced at NAMM a new distribution partnership with Japanese distributor Kyoritsu Corporation. Under the terms of this alliance, Kyoritsu Corporation will be Japan's sole distributor of Peavey MI and Pro Audio products.

"We're thrilled to have Kyoritsu Corporation as our distribution partner for Japan," said Courtland Gray, chief operating officer of Peavey Electronics. "Japan is one of the most important markets in the world, and we believe Kyoritsu Corporation is the right partner to represent the Peavey product line and will help us increase our market share in the region. We look forward to a long relationship which will see us both grow and prosper."

(Jim Evans)

USA - Crown Audio today has announced changes in its senior management team. New leaders have been added as "the company implements continual improvement initiatives in fundamental disciplines including sales, operations and general management".

John Fitzgerald, vice president of programme management at Harman Professional, will take the additional position of general manager for Harman's Elkhart, IN based Amplifier Business Unit and will be responsible for all aspects of Crown Audio's business.

John Batliner, vice president of sales for Harman's High Performance Audio Video group, will assume additional responsibilities as vice president of sales for Crown Audio and Matt Bush, previously director of sales for Crown Audio is appointed senior director of operations for Crown Audio.

According to Rob Urry, vice president of Harman Professional's Amplifier and Processi

UK - Academy Music Group (AMG) has announced a fourth Students' Union joint venture, with plans for O2 Academy Bournemouth to work in partnership with The Old Fire Station, Bournemouth . One of the most iconic venues on the South Coast, the Grade II listed ex-central fire station has a capacity of 550.

"The partnership between O2 Academy and The Old Fire Station will improve availability for artists between the venues, and will act as a valuable development ground for newer artists helping to build a live fan base before they play O2 Academy Bournemouth . Together we can create joint marketing initiatives and awareness to a wider reach of fans," says Angus Carter, marketing and communications manager, The Old Fire Station.

This announcement follows AMG's recent success with the University of Leicester Students' Union, opening a new 1,450 capacity venue on campus, O2

USA - Waves Audio introduced the C6 Multiband Compressor at NAMM. For years, the Waves C4 has been popular with studio engineers the world over, and in live sound, it has become a must-have for front-of-house and monitor engineers, says the company. The C6 builds upon its predecessor's functionality, and "takes it to the next level".

To create the C6, Waves took all the functions of the C4, and then added two additional floating bands plus a sidechain feature, for one-stop vocal and instrument shaping. The C6 lets users zero in on problem frequencies with "surgical precision". With four crossover bands plus two additional floating bands and a flexible sidechain feature, the C6 offers a solution for vocal and instrument shaping, offering de-essing, de-popping, feedback management and more, giving users "all the multiband compression and dynamic equalizati

Germany - The DGB rally on 13 November 2010 was the largest gathering organised by the Confederation of German Trade Unions in more than 30 years: over 30,000 trade unionists and sympathizers attended the event in Nuremberg's Corn Market and adjacent areas. The speakers included Matthias Jena, chairman of the Bavarian DGB, and Dr. Dorothea Deneke-Stoll, president of the Bavarian Synod of the Evangelical Church. The programme was rounded off by artistic performances of various kinds, including live music.

To ensure the demonstrators, who had travelled from all over Bavaria to attend the event, were able to hear the speeches without any difficulty, the organizers engaged the team from Barowski AG to handle the sound reinforcement.

"Originally, the DGB organisers were expecting some 15,000 people to attend the rally, but two days before the event was due to take place, they

USA - Steinberg Media Technologies announced at NAMM the release of two pro-audio VST/AU signal processing plug-ins that reflect the overarching alliance between Yamaha, Rupert Neve Designs and Steinberg. Both 5033 EQ and 5043 compressor plug-ins will soon be available.

"By announcing the release of two virtual pendants of the renowned Portico signal processors, the alliance between Yamaha, Rupert Neve Designs and Steinberg is coming to fruition. I'm elated to count these two highly sophisticated effect plug-ins to our product range, as both meet Steinberg's exacting standards," comments Andreas Stelling, Steinberg's managing director.

"With the Yamaha VCM technology, we're able to pick up the amazing quality of musicality and accuracy that was inherent in the original Rupert Neve Designs Portico modules," states Rupert Neve.

The RND Portico 5033 five-ban

USA - At NAMM, Audio-Technica introduced the ATW-CHG2 Two-Bay Recharging Station for its new 2000 Series wireless transmitters. This unit charges ATW-T220a handheld transmitters and/or ATW-T210a UniPak transmitters (in any combination). Batteries are charged within the transmitters.

The ATW-CHG2 has many protective features to preserve the integrity of the transmitters. A built-in safety feature monitors cell voltage and automatically turns off the unit if problems are detected. The unit will also automatically shut off if damaged or alkaline (non-rechargeable) batteries are installed. Maintenance charging prevents battery self-discharge until the transmitter is removed from the charger. Two AA 2000 mAh Ni-MH rechargeable batteries are included.

Other recent enhancements to the 2000 Series include the addition of a second operating frequency band for more flexibility and incre

Finland - msonic, the Finnish entertainment technology company set up by Mikko Palomäki, has added to its roster of advanced audio tool solutions after winning the territorial distribution rights for Optocore.

"When we set up msonic in 2009 our aim was to represent only leading brands and manufacturers with top quality service, and ensure 100% satisfaction for both our partners and customers," he says. "Optocore certainly falls into that category." The brand joins a developing portfolio of studio and broadcast audio, lighting, truss systems, LED and video projection.

With a background in professional audio and lighting distribution dating back to 1985, Mikko Palomäki has been quick to establish his new sales and service operation, which gives him a nationwide marketing reach, aided by a strong social network presence.

"Optocore is regarded as the b

UK - Visitors to ISCEx2011 at the Park Inn Hotel in Watford on Tuesday 1 March will once again have the opportunity to network with professionals from the sound industry and view the latest products during the ISCE's annual exhibition and seminar day. The seminars, which run alongside the exhibition, will provide the latest information on a wide range of topics.

Of particular interest to those who work in the Voice Alarm industry will be Voice sounders for evacuation - where are they now?, by Tony Payn of Vimpex.

Technologies continue to converge and Video for audio engineers, by David Tyas of Ikon AVS will be of interest to many. Gordon Morris of Gordon Morris Ltd , who is himself deaf, will present Why loop systems are failing, and Peter Alberry-King of Penton UK who have recently been through the third-party certification process, will present Loudsp

Germany - Optocore has announced the release of the DD4MR-FX and DD2FR-FX dual MADI, video and data network devices.

Following on from the release of the DD32R interface last Autumn, these two 1RU products have been designed for compatibility with Optocore's new Cat 5-based SANE platform, allowing up to 256 channels over Cat 5. The existing DD4ME and DD2FE MADI devices have thus been re-engineered to function within this environment, and include RJ45 SANE network connectivity, while the optical port upgrade (to 2Gbit LC SPF's) allows for simple user exchangeable single or multimode fibre transceivers.

The expanded capacity provides each ring with the capability of carrying up to an unprecedented 1024 audio channels over a 2 Gbit network, and at the same time create cost-effective copper based, 24 ID sub network rings from any of the 24 devices that can appear on the prime fibr

The Netherlands - d&b audiotechnik marks its inaugural appearance at Integrated Systems Europe 2011 with the promised launch of two new series within its White range.

Designed to target permanently installed applications where selection of components is driven by technical specifications and application requirements, the xS-Series and the xA-Series address stand-alone and arrayable permanent applications respectively.

(Jim Evans)

UK - Rycote has added three telescopic carbon-fibre boom poles to its range of accessories for broadcast and location sound recordists: the 1.63m long G3, with three sections, and the 2.49m long G5, with five sections. The G5 is itself available in two versions, a standard version and one with an internal coiled cable and built-in Neutrik XLR connector in the hilt.

For several years, following their takeover of US boom pole manufacturer Lightwave Audio, Rycote has been selling telescopic boom poles under the Lightwave name. However, with the launch of the Rycote-branded G-series carbon-fibre poles, the entire range, including the A3 and A5 aluminium poles, will now be rebranded as Rycote products.

Featuring the same lightweight patented triple-cam 'grip and twist' locking system as the A3 and A5 poles, and with no metal parts to add to their weight, the new G3 and G5 combine l

The Netherlands - Professional loudspeaker systems manufacturer Fohhn Audio will exhibit its Linea Focus electronically steerable, active line array systems at Integrated Systems Europe in Amsterdam next month.

The company will present its entire family of Linea Focus loudspeakers, which range from the flagship LFI-450 and LFI-350 systems, to the more compact LF-220 and LF-120 models. Designed for both mobile and fixed installation applications, particularly in environments with challenging acoustics, the loudspeakers' design enables their vertical sound dispersion characteristics to be directed towards specific audience areas and remotely controlled in real time, from a central location, without any need to mechanically alter the speaker's position.

The speakers' slim appearance makes them suitable for integration into a range of architectural settings, from cathedrals and co

UK - Tannoy's VQ Live self-powered portable PA system has been winning new fans across the live touring sound sector over the past 18 months since its launch. Ted Pierce, FOH engineer for the Michael Jackson tribute show, Who's Bad, counts himself as one of the most fervent of recent converts, having had the opportunity to try out the system on the UK leg of their current tour.

This production comes direct from the US and brings Jackson's music back to the stage. Formed in 2004 by Vamsi Tadepalli, the band have been playing Michael Jackson's hits, including everything from ABC to You Rock My World, across America. Now, the show is on the road on this side of the Atlantic, with over 30 dates in the UK from Glasgow to the IndigO2 in London.

Experienced system tech Pierce previously specified conventional line array systems on earlier Who's Bad tours but after readi

Germany - Berlin-based AFMG, creator of EASE, the software for acoustic simulation, will assume the German distribution of its software packages EASE, EASERA, and SysTune as of January 2011.

Former German sales partner audioone will continue sales and support through March of this year to guarantee a smooth transition. "Our relations with audioone are very cordial," says Stefan Feistel, managing director of AFMG. "We have made this move with great accord to provide continuous and extensive support to our customers now and in future. All our software from audio measurement through to acoustical simulation will now be available from one distributor."

Historically AFMG has been the distributor of their applications EASE Focus, EASE Address and EASE SpeakerLab for a long time. Several new versions and programmes will be available soon - all of them with "g

UK - The National Skills Academy for Creative & Cultural is getting ready for its biggest event of the year, the Annual Industry Conference. On Tuesday 1 and Wednesday 2 March 2011, training providers, industry employers and membership organisations, will join forces at the newly renovated Pavilion Dance in Bournemouth, to work on the future of skills in the music and backstage theatre sectors.

Building on the success of the 2010 inaugural event in London, the conference is delighted to host John Hayes MP, Minister of State for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning, who will address delegates on the importance of improving and consolidating partnership links between the creative and cultural industry and the education sector.

Attendees will have the opportunity to network with key industry figures, attend lively and practical seminars and celebrate achievements the S

USA / UK - Clear-Com, the voice communication systems specialist, has announced the appointment of Orbital Sound Ltd as its UK distributor in the Live Event/Live Performance market, with effect from 1 January 2011. Orbital, specialising in sound and communication systems for the theatre, event and broadcast markets, will offer Clear-Com's full range of professional intercom products.

Clear-Com says this partnership with Orbital "signals a continued commitment towards growth in the region, coupled with a dedication to enhancing the customer experience". Orbital Sound will carry a local supply of Clear-Com products, making it easier for users to purchase intercom systems based on the specific needs of a live event at short notice. Orbital Sound will also provide trained technical staff to assist with after-sales support and services, as well as designing and running a de

Show Business - The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) has announced the final registration and exhibitor numbers for the 2011 NAMM Show. At show close, NAMM reported 90,114 registered attendees, a three percent increase from last year and representing a new attendance record for the 109-year-old show. International registration also experienced a two percent increase from last year to 10,400. Another sign of economic recovery in the industry, the association reported 1,417 exhibitors at this year's show, including 247 new exhibitors.

"The world's brightest minds and most innovative music companies came together in Anaheim for four amazing days of commerce, networking and learning," said NAMM president and CEO Joe Lamond. "After meeting with NAMM members from around the world, I am continually impressed and amazed at the resolve and optimism our indust

USA - D-Tools has announced the release of SI5.5 Service Pack 3. The release will be made available to all customers via automatic updates beginning Tuesday 18 January. D-Tools System Integrator is currently used by over 3,000 companies to streamline the design, estimation, and documentation processes associated with the installation and integration of low voltage systems.

In addition to enhancements and bug fixes, SP3 includes expanded support for the tools that r customers rely on to manage their business, says the company. This includes new support for QuickBooks 2011, Outlook 2010 and Visio 2010. In addition, D-Tools confirms limited support for AutoCAD x64 installations. In combination with third-party Longbow software (purchased separately), SI5.5 SP3 has been tested against current versions of AutoCAD 64-bit.

(Jim Evans)

USA - Harman Professional has named Mark Posgay as sales director for the United States. Posgay will be based out of Harman Professional's Elkhart, Indiana Sales & Support Centre and will report to Scott Robbins, vice-president of sales.

"Our moves to consolidate sales operations in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Potters Bar, UK have paid a strong dividend in terms of effectiveness and efficiency," Robbins said yesterday. "Having Mark Posgay onboard to lead the Elkhart-based national sales team promises equally strong results from our new US sales operation.

"Mark's strong track record of sales success, coupled with his deep commitment to innovation and education, means our customers can look forward to a more responsive, effective Harman. Our sales partners can expect strong leadership and effective toolsets and our operations and suppo

USA - David Taylor, the theatre consultant and lighting designer, died in Taipei, Taiwan on Monday, January 17. He was 48. He died falling from the 14th floor of the Howard Plaza Hotel. Early newspaper reports suggested that the death was a suicide; however, updated reports indicate that the police have refused to speculate on the cause of death. A full police report is said to be pending.

A popular, well-connected, and highly involved member of the industry, Taylor was born in London. He studied theatre aesthetics at the University of London, followed by attendance at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and graduate studies at Royal Holloway, University of London.

Taylor spent 21 years at Theatre Projects Consultants where he was involved in a number of acclaimed and high-profile projects, including the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, New Amsterdam Theatre in New York, Hyper

UK - Pearce Hire has continued to expand its dry hire operations into 2011 with the appointment of a dedicated hire manager.

"Jim Brown will be responsible for dealing with the requirements of Pearce's increasing dry hire customer base, delivering them to the highest standards," says managing director Shaun Pearce.

"The company has invested in a significant range of lighting, power distribution and audio equipment and Jim will manage our continually expanding inventory, ensuring optimum service levels through efficient stock control and ongoing maintenance and testing at the company's Peterborough HQ."

After years of touring as an audio freelancer, Brown began working with Pearce Hire in 2010.

Other advances shaping Pearce Hire's start to 2011 see Dan Shelton promoted to become head of operations, while Daniel Stratton has been promoted to company elect

Korea - Proel Group exhibited at Kosound+Stagetech, held at the end of the last November in Gyeonggi-Do, Korea, at Kintex, Korea International Exhibition Centre.

Proel Group took part in the show through its subsidiary Proel Korea, which also presented a broad range of Turbosound products. The company says it received "great feedback" after the Axiom line array demo.

"This is the first time we have taken part in the Kosound+Stagetech," says Agatha Moon, managing director of Proel Korea. "We were absolutely pleased with the success of the event and with the feedback we received on Proel and Turbosound systems - we definitely plan to come back next year."

(Jim Evans)

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