USA - When officials at Oaklawn Racing Casino in Hot Springs, AZ greenlighted a multi-phased expansion project, one of the big ticket items they wanted to add to the resort was a versatile event space that could host conferences, concerts and more. As the vision came to fruition, the recently opened 15,000sq.ft event centre features the latest technology, including an ADAPTive PA system comprising 20 Anna loudspeakers and 12 Otto subwoofers from Eastern Acoustic Works (EAW). In addition, EAW monitors and side-fills were also employed on the project. The task of equipping the 1,500-seat venue with the latest in AV technology, including a 1,900sq.ft stage with a large video wall, was given to full-service AV integration firm TMG Systems. Designed by Jerrold Stevens of Marsh/PMK International LLC, this is the second project TMG Systems has worked on with Stevens in which
UK - When the Waterboys embarked on their current British tour, they did so safe in the knowledge that their new production supplier, Entec Live, would be able to provide the same integrated sound and lighting package as their old. Entec, head of sound, Dan Scantlebury had brought the Waterboys into the fold, at the blessing of his previous company, dbnAudile. “They introduced us to the band owing to their heavy workload - and since the two companies have similar inventories it has been an easy transition. You generally find both L-Acoustics and d&b on tour riders, and we have the latter. In this instance they fielded two hangs of d&b V series, with a Soundcraft Vi7000 console at FOH and DiGiCo SD12 on monitors. “The major advantage is that the band has one point of contact,” says Scantlebury, who was previously the band’s system tech. “Whether a soun
Denmark - DPA Microphones has released a new accessory, the MS4099 Mic Stand Mount, for its 4099 Core Instrument Mic. The company has also begun shipping the brown version of its new 4466 Core Omnidirectional and 4488 Core Directional Headset Microphones. A flexible solution for mounting the 4099 onto any mic stand, the MS4099 can be used on both three-eighths inch and five-eighths inch threads. Borrowed from the design of other DPA mounting options, the barrel of the MS4099 mic holder makes it quick and easy to attach or remove the microphone. In addition, the mount can be turned for vertical or horizontal use, pending application. It is also compatible with the brand’s 4097 Core Micro Shotgun. Now available in brown, the new 4466 and 4488 headsets feature the brand’s 5mm round microphone capsule and feature the design of the company’s groundbreaking 6066 Submi
Germany - With the current system update for the Prodigy series, DirectOut has introduced more new features. Prodigy.MP now features AutoMix, MirrorMode and the TruePeak Levelmeter. With AutoMix, Prodigy.MP now supports the fully automatic mixing of different input signals – perfect for panel discussions or multi-language feeds at sport events. Tweaking of the control parameters helps to meet even complex requirements, e.g. particularly reverberant event rooms. With the newly implemented TruePeak Levelmeter, Prodigy.MP now fulfills the requirements of EBU R 128. The TruePeak measurement allows reliable detection and display of inter-sample peaks. In DirectOut's own MirrorMode, selected parameters of a Mirror Unit are automatically aligned with the Main Unit. Alignment allows immediate switch-over for seamless operation with the matching device configuration in
Italy - Powersoft has launched two new certified courses on its website, allowing users to gain knowledge about core technologies, DSP, and network connectivity solutions. The two new courses, 201i and 201t are continuations of previous courses already available on the website, providing a more extensive look into topics such as Dynamic Music Distribution systems, Mezzo amplifier platforms, and WM Touch. During the 201i course the user continues on the path started with course 101i, completing the explanation of all the windows and functions of ArmoníaPlus whilst learning how to manage the networking and control through Third-party plugins. In the 201t course, Interactive Tuning is introduced, a tool that uses the potential of Smaart v8, allowing users to measure and align an audio system, even offline. There are also lessons on networking, and a more in-depth
USA - Founded in 1836, Emory & Henry College is consistently ranked among the nation’s best private liberal arts institutions. Central to the college’s southwestern Virginia campus is Memorial Chapel, a 500-seat church building that has served as host to thousands of worship services. This past summer, Memorial Chapel was host to renovation with the installation of a new Danley Sound Labs point source sound reinforcement system. “The previous installation used ceiling speakers that were installed 35 – 40ftt in the air,” said Justin Plaster of JMP Productions. “This prior design required the speakers to be quite loud to drive sound to event and worship service attendees. With the reverberant nature of the Chapel as well as the height and arch of the ceiling, this made intelligibility of the audio from those speakers very poor. The system was also quite d
Austria - For this summer’s Oper Im Steinbruch production at St Margarethen’s amphitheatre, once a Roman quarry now billed as Europe’s largest natural stage, little could outshine the vast projected visual backdrop for the performances of Turandot. The audio for the lavish production, however, was enhanced with TiMax SoundHub object-based spatialisation integrated with an Amadeus active acoustics system which immersed the 4,700-capacity audience, delivering consistent focus and intelligibility across the 80m wide, 30m deep stage. St Margarethen’s sound designer for Turandot, Volker Werner, consistently relies upon TiMax SoundHub so that audiences can easily follow the classical opera narratives, this year specifying two Dante-equipped main and backup units as the spatial processing core of the system. Werner states, “We have always
Germany - Prolight + Sound Frankfurt is set to return from 26 to 29 April 2022, with emphasis on sustainability. With the Green Event Day on 27 April, the fair is offering for the first time a theme day all about the responsible use of natural resources. Companies and associations will present their green initiatives and underline that commitment to sustainability can also pay off economically. Among the players who have already declared their participation in PL+S 2022 are ADJ, Area Four Industries, Ayrton, B. & C. Speakers, Bosch Rexroth, Bütec, Cast, Chainmaster, Chauvet, Clay Paky, ComputerWorks, dBTechnologies, DTS, Elation, ETC, Eurotruss, FBT Elettronica, GLP, Highlite International, HOF Alutec, InEar, JB-Lighting, Kling & Freitag, König & Meyer, KS Audio, Kvant, L-Acoustics, Lawo, Layher, LEDitgo, Lightpower, Link, MA Lighting, Meyer Sound, Moveca
USA - When Ridgeview Classical Schools in Fort Collins, Colorado, a public K-12 charter school serving approximately 750 students, realised it was time to upgrade their auditorium AV system they chose LEA Professional to give them reliable amplifier power within an affordable package. Local AV systems integrator Sight + Sound Technologies was sub-contracted in to help Ridgeview Classical with a sound system upgrade within the school's main auditorium. The project was actually started a few months earlier but was running over budget, and school managers wanted a re-look at the project to see if cost-saving adjustments could be made. "The original estimates only included equipment costs, not labour, and the school had a strict budget they needed to adhere to, but of course, quality and usability were still important," said Kris Johnson, chief operating officer, Sight +
France - The Ultra Son company, founded in 1996 by Patrice Polak in Saint Quentin in the Aisne region of France, initially concentrated on the rental and sale of equipment for DJs and local services. Maxime Polak, Patrice’s son, gave the company new impetus when he took over it in 2011, expanding its activities to servicing concerts and events, providing sound, lighting and structure. This vision paid off, as has its investment in DiGiCo consoles over the years, with the latest addition to its inventory being a Quantum 338. Ultra Son’s DiGiCo console fleet started with the purchase of an SD8 in 2015 and has grown over the years, with S21s then an SD12 added. This July saw them add the Q338, the first Quantum console for the company, its processing quality, flexibility of flexible configuration combined with redesigned ergonomics to cope with any operating req
UK - Inspired by the real-life history of summer camps organised during the 1930s by the German American Bund in support of the 3rd Reich, Bess Wohl’s play, Camp Siegfried is a story of teenage passion against a sinister backdrop of Nazi ideology. Set in 1938, the drama focuses on two young teens, known only as ‘Him’ and ‘Her’, as they meet, chat and fall in love in the seemingly idyllic environment of a summer camp in Long Island. However, the camp’s real aim is soon revealed as the two young people become increasingly consumed and impassioned by fascist rhetoric. Autograph Sound, were responsible for the design and implementation of the audio for this unsual production; sound designer Ian Dickinson selected the new Reference Series loudspeakers from EM Acoustics to form the core of the sound system. “I’d already heard the R10s at a factory visi
South Africa - Stage Audio Works has announced the launch of Plus Audio, billed as a new range of loudspeaker systems for all applications requiring professional grade performance at an affordable price point. Targeted at regional rental companies and worship applications, Plus Audio offers products ranging from powerful, large format line array systems for touring or fixed installation use, compact line arrays for smaller venues right through to a range of versatile point source cabinets that can be used as a distributed system, or as in-fill for larger systems or indeed as a stand-alone PA coupled with the appropriate subwoofers. A range of subwoofers and a dedicated stage monitor as well as amplifiers and a DSP complete the line-up. “We’re delighted to integrate the Plus Audio brand into our portfolio,” says Stage Audio Works CTO Nathan Ihlenfeldt. “We now o
Europe - Audio-Technica has introduced the low-profile BP898 Subminiature Cardioid Condenser Lavalier Microphone and BP899 Subminiature Omnidirectional Condenser Lavalier Microphone. Direct replacements and upgrades to the existing AT898 and AT899, the new BP898 and BP899 are available in a number of different terminations (for wired or wireless use) that suit them to the entire range of lavalier mic applications. The BP898 is available in five black-finished models, all with permanently attached cables and varying termination and power configurations. Available in a variety of different variations, each of the BP899 options features permanently attached cables, varying termination and power configurations and black or theatre beige finishes. Both microphones’ wide dynamic range and tolerance for high sound pressure levels ensures intelligible, natural-sounding
USA - Podcasters on the San Francisco-based Pantheon network are using the AKG Podcaster Essentials bundle to great effect, enjoying improved sound and ease of use from the AKG Lyra USB microphone and K371 headphones. Pantheon Podcasts is a network of more than 70 music-focused shows, running the gamut from casual music exploration to history, production, banjo culture and much more. Pantheon founder and CEO Christian Swain is also the host of Rock N Roll Archaeology, a chronological, episodic podcast that tells the story of how the music of the late 20th century intersected with the changing culture of the times to create what is now one of the greatest moments in music history. According to Swain, the AKG Podcaster Essentials toolkit makes it possible for less-experienced hosts to achieve professional sound easily and lends a cohesive sound to the network’s many shows.
USA - Crusader Stadium is the home of the NCAA Cru Football team at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. During the summer of 2021, Daktronics upgraded the end-zone scoreboard and sound system with the goal of doubling the size of the video display area while minimizing changes to the existing structure. For long-throw coverage, Daktronics deployed six Fulcrum Acoustic AHS speaker modules in the horizontal ‘ribbon’ above the video area of the scoreboard. Each AHS module packs a lot of output into a 31” tall package, with up to four coaxial compression drivers and four horn-loaded 10” woofers per module. The available space within the scoreboard structure allowed for three stacks of two modules each. This provides sufficient output to achieve the project’s sound level goals for the seating areas. The high-frequency driver density provides the output needed to
UK - Britannia Row Productions marked its return to outdoor live music in the UK by providing a control package for Anne-Marie’s Saturday set at the 2021 Pirelli British Grand Prix, held at Silverstone. The package for the Formula 1 fixture was made up primarily of DiGiCo consoles, DPA microphones, Shure and Sennheiser IEMs and KLANG processing. During the show, Anne-Marie - a judge on the Voice UK who is known for hits such as 2002, Don’t Play and Friends - was looked after by Niccolò Antonietti at FOH, while Scott Maxwell took the reins on monitors. “This was my first-time mixing Anne-Marie. I really like her music because it’s a good mix of garage, electronic beats and pop melodies,” said Antonietti. “I tried to replicate the atmosphere of her records as closely as possible, particularly on her vocal effects. She’s us
UK - After its enforced break last year, the traditional black-tie Henley Festival returned this summer with sound system providers, RG Jones Sound Engineering’s association with the event now approaching 40 years. However, the site on the banks of the Thames is not without its challenges when it comes to creating optimum audio. This is highlighted by its main Floating Stage, situated on the river itself. The auditorium here is only around 40m from front to back, but over 100m wide. Obtaining even coverage without hotspots for audiences, both inside and outside the main sound field, is a challenge that has been met head on by a combination of the service providers’ technical expertise, led by designer Simon Honywill, and their deployment of Martin Audio’s MLA. The festival production team had previously acknowledged that MLA’s advanced control technology had en
USA - Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) has announced it has signed a definitive agreement of merger with PreSonus Audio Electronics, designer and manufacturer of recording and live-sound hardware and software solutions. “We are thrilled to welcome everyone on the PreSonus team to the FMIC family and excited about the future growth opportunities available to both companies,” explains Andy Mooney, CEO Fender Musical Instruments Corp. “Our teams share the same passion for music, the same commitment to innovation and the same desire to inspire and equip current and future generations of artists.” “I would like to extend our utmost gratitude to our loyal Baton Rouge and Louisiana community that have supported PreSonus for the last two decades,” says Kevin Couhig, chairman of PreSonus. “It has been wonderful being a part of this incredible journey
Korea - With a total area of 11,265sq.m and the largest LED wall in Korea, VA Corporation’s new VA Studio Hanam provides in-camera visual effects (ICVFX) facilities optimised for immersive content production. Created in partnership with ARK Ventures Inc South Korea, this virtual production infrastructure is powered by Brompton Technology LED processing, with 4K Tessera SX40 processors driving four large LED walls. The new facility offers a full spectrum of creative possibilities for content production, from films, drama, advertising, and gaming to XR broadcasts and live performances, allowing each production to be tailored to the specific needs and budget of the client. VA Studio Hanam includes three main facilities, all featuring cutting-edge technology provided by ARK Ventures, including ROE Visual LED screens and Brompton Tessera processing. With a floor ar
UK - After two years away from Daresbury, Britannia Row Productions returned to cinch presents Creamfields on the UK’s August Bank Holiday to provide sound solutions for the North Stage, the South Stage, and the 15,000-capacity Steel Yard (see a production report on the event in the upcoming LSi November, out next week). Britannia Row has enjoyed a long and productive relationship with the dance festival, and its production company, LarMac LIVE, so as soon as it was announced that the 2021 event would go ahead, Brit Row’s team - led by Audio Crew Chief Alex Hore - were eager to pick up where they left off. “As with many events that have managed to go ahead this year during the pandemic, I think there was a general sense of relief and joy that we could be back in a field enjoying our favourite DJs and the live event atmosphere once again,” says Hore. <
USA - Clair Global CEO Troy Clair and ATK Audiotek president Michael MacDonald have announced that their companies have reached a definitive agreement for the sale of ATK to Clair Global. The deal is expected to close in mid-November. “Everyone in the industry has worked with the ATK team for years to support our clients on major broadcast events,” comments Troy Clair. ATK developed the enviable position of being in the driver’s seat at huge events that span entertainment awards, sports, and political events, and developed techniques to ensure that the sound provided to a live audience is flawless, while maintaining the integrity of audio for broadcast.” Clair went on to say, “Everyone at Clair is excited to have the opportunity to work with ATK.” Scott Harmala, a senior partner at ATK, is enthusiastic about the potential created by this joining-of-forces.
France - A full APG sound system heralded the return of France’s Musique à Beauregard, which this summer welcomed thousands of live music fans to its spectacular mountain-top festival site for the first time since 2019. Like nearly all festivals in Europe, Musique à Beauregard – which has taken place on a protected natural site in the Alpine foothills, in eastern France, since 2017 – was forced to postpone its 2020 edition because of restrictions on large events. For its comeback the festival more than made up for lost time, boasting a diverse, crowd-pleasing music line-up, a brand-new stage, and a state-of-the-art audio setup designed to complement the natural acoustic support provided by the Aravis mountain range. Measuring 15m x 10m, the new stage provided a proving ground for the festival’s new sound system, comprising several speakers from APG’s light,
USA - Fall for Greenville is an annual festival of music, food and drinks which takes place in Greenville, South Carolina. After last year’s festival had to be staged ‘virtually’, artists, public, vendors and production teams alike were all happy to return to the city’s streets in early October for the event’s 40th anniversary. Alcons Audio pro-ribbon loudspeaker systems were used on five of the six stages. Described as ‘a weekend full of flavour’, Greenville’s Main Street welcomed the sound of 78 live acts across the six stages, alongside many tempting tastes and taps, enjoyed by an estimated 150,000 people. AVL Solutions has been the festival’s main sound and lighting provider for over 20 years. With the company being The Ribbon Network member, owner Alan Simonton has previously used Alcons pro-ribbon systems at Fall for Greenville and was very pl
Australia - Due for a complete audio overhaul, the Erindale Theatre recently collaborated with CMI to outfit its facility with JBL Professional BRX300 line array systems. With 443 seats, the Erindale Theatre is the largest theatre space south of the Canberra central business district. Featuring a full fly rigging system for set changes, an acoustically optimized orchestra pit and advanced AV and lighting equipment, the multi-purpose space can accommodate a wide range of functions from theatrical productions and concerts to large corporate seminars and community group presentations. To ensure a high-quality audio experience, Erindale Theatre needed a modern sound reinforcement system. CMI selected the JBL BRX300 modular line array system for its excellent sound quality and coverage in a compact, easy-to-use form factor. According to CMI staff, the variety of performance
