Austria - The Vienna Volksoper (Volksoper Wien), Vienna’s grand house for operetta, opera, musicals and ballet is home to not only opera and theatre facilities, but also to a recording studio and modern control room. And those facilities now also boast a new Lawo mc²56 console, commissioned by Lawo technicians using remote-control technology. Volksoper Wien’s facilities are used to record performances for both television broadcasts and concert recordings, especially of premieres, and also to create audio clips used during performances. In fact, all of the opera’s publicly available audio content is produced within their own walls. As the only multi-purpose venue in Vienna which produces a full complement of opera, operetta, musical and ballet, flexibility is key; more than 150 singers, 95 orchestra musicians and 100 dancers are part of Volksoper Wien’s ensembl
UK - disguise takes on the new ‘normal’ with the launch of r17.3, its latest software release that delivers an improved workflow for enhanced efficiency and successful completion of projects post-lockdown. New features include Indirections, Multi-layer Editing, Object Assignment Hotkeys, Crossfaded Loop Section Mode as well as a number of improvements and bug fixes to further streamline the user experience. Headlining the release is the introduction of ‘Indirections’, which gives all new flexibility to change keyframe objects. Users can now quickly and easily change keyframe objects such as mappings, video clips, textures and configurations remotely via third-party protocols such as OSC, DMX or a dedicated API. This functionality unlocks new workflows for esports, making changes to the visual experience in response to gameplay, for example, to spotlight who is leadin
UK - A movement that started in Berlin during lockdown has now spread to 65 cities across the world. United We Stream Brighton (UWSB) launched on 18 June with a programme of live performances to raise funds for Brighton's night time economy, which has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Loudspeaker manufacturer Funktion-One is partnering with the initiative, supplying its new F5 / SB8 sound system for in the room playback. United We Stream was founded in Berlin to support clubs, artists and event organisers drastically affected by lockdown, through livestreaming from an empty venue direct into people’s homes. The idea of the ‘living room rave’ has captured imaginations around the globe, spreading to 65 cities across every continent. While the streams are free, those tuning in are encouraged to make donations - so far raising over a million euros for worthy c
Denmark - Production specialists DPA Soundco took Coda Audio to new heights for 24-hour live stream concert Covidhagen, which took place on the flat roof of Copenhagen’s famed Opera House. Experienced audio engineer Ally Kerslake was the project manager for this ambitious event. Dealing with more than 50 acts, some with multiple personnel, would be a tall order on any stage - to present them seamlessly for twenty four hours on a roof accessed via a small elevator and an even smaller stairway was something of a challenge. Kerslake comments: “This was only the second time an event had been staged on the Opera House roof. The first was a Red Bull diving event in 2018 where we supplied an audio solution, so having been chosen again, we knew the kinds of challenges we’d face. Safety was a key concern, both in terms of COVID-19 and the access issues.” Th
Europe - Audio-Technica has released the Version 1.1.1 update of its Wireless Manager software, available for immediate download. Wireless Manager is a Mac OS/Windows application for remote configuration, control, monitoring, spectrum management and frequency coordination of compatible Audio-Technica wireless devices. For those customers who have Wireless Manager previously installed the software will be automatically updated. Updated features in Version 1.1.1 include improved usability, layout and control, enhanced scrolling capability, improved visibility of all frequency coordinated devices, updated and expanded channel list reports, upgraded user tools and minor bug fixes. The software is compatible with Microsoft Windows 8.1, 10; macOS High Sierra (Version 10.13), macOS Mojave (Version 10.14). Audio-Technica Wireless Manager software is compatible with all wireles
Finland - Helsinki law firm Castrén & Snellman is a pioneer of sustainable business practice in the legal services industry and was the first Finnish law firm to join the UN Global Compact initiative. The company recently carried out an extensive renovation of their client areas and staff workspaces, with the goal of taking the 130-year old law firm to the next level. Castrén & Snellman turned to Finnish AV integrator, 4Business Oy, who specialise in delivering tailored AV and automation systems. The solution integrated a large number of Genelec loudspeakers throughout the building. “Genelec was simply an ideal choice for this project,” states 4Business COO Janne Lankinen. “On top of Genelec’s product quality, visual appearance and neutral sound reproduction, the company’s values and commitment to sustainable development fit beautifully into the or
UK - Located on the top floor of the former Dickins & Jones department store at Oxford Circus in London, Aqua is a combination of the Japanese Aqua Kyoto sushi restaurant and Aqua Nueva contemporary Spanish restaurant. Set on a vast 17,000sq.ft space, it also includes a large central bar and balcony/terrace bar. Opened more than a decade ago by Hong Kong-based Aqua Restaurant Group, it recently underwent a design metamorphosis, which included an upgraded Martin Audio sound system, while still retaining its distinct nightclub flavour. Having carried out maintenance work there previously, Evolve Install, in the shape of partners Elliot Patterson and Robert Stemson, were alerted to the imminent refurbishment. They began talks with the management last April / May, budgets were discussed, and the decision was taken to keep the sound system under the Martin Audio umbrell
Europe - Shure is introducing the new Shure Tech Portal, an interactive technical resource library developed for systems integrators, dealers, audio engineers, service providers, consultants, and other professional and technically-minded users. The portal provides fast and direct access to complete product and technical information, document downloads, and resources to support the specification, design, deployment and operation of Shure products across all markets and applications. The Shure Tech Portal is an intuitive, fully searchable online platform that offers professional users streamlined access to comprehensive Shure product information. With a complete document library for each product, key specifications, global SKU and variant information, software and firmware downloads, imagery, FAQs, and more, Tech Portal users can get all the information they need, all in
UK - Music Support continues to hold weekly online support group meetings to allow the music industry’s 12 Step recovery community to continue to connect during these challenging times, with numbers of attendees growing weekly. Meetings take place every Monday 18:00-19:00 GMT throughout the summer, providing a confidential and non-judgemental space for people to share and encourage one another on the journey of recovery. “We’re pioneering a change of culture within the industry that suggests another lifestyle is possible within it and as beacons of that, we host a weekly online support group meeting for those in our business who are members of any 12 step fellowship,” says the team behind Music Support. “We acknowledge that although each fellowship uses different words, they speak the same language of hope – and that’s why now more than ever, it is imper
UK - An important part of The University of York’s Department of Theatre, Film, Television and Interactive Media’s curriculum focuses on audio recording and delivery. To teach students in its audio programmes about loudness compliance and metering, the school relies on Nugen Audio’s VisLM plug-in. “We first heard about Nugen from a commercial client who requested the VisLM software,” says Richard Sykes, technical officer, University of York. “We purchased a copy so they could use it when they came in to mix in our studios. We were immediately impressed with the software and have since incorporated it into the curriculum for our film, television and sound production programmes. “The placement of the graphics makes long-form work a lot easier, which is especially important for students to properly understand what’s going on,” adds Sykes. “When you are
Vietnam - At the Hoiana Suncity gaming and entertainment venue, VISCO Joint Stock and ihD has deployed Harman Professional audio-visual (AV) and background music (BGM) solutions. Hoiana is the first beachfront integrated resort in Central Vietnam. The resort consists of entertainment and gaming facilities, an 18-hole golf course; and hotel facilities. "The client wanted the latest hi-tech audio-visual, background music, lighting solutions and LED video walls to enliven its gaming and entertainment venues. One of the challenges that we faced was that we began the project with 50 percent of architectural drawings, while the rest of the design was put in place as the establishment was being built," said David Chua, general director, VISCO Joint Stock. "We used HiQnet Audio Architect Software for programming and configuring all of Harman’s audio systems. Integrating a mu
USA - St. Matthew Catholic Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, offers 100-plus active ministries and is distinguished as the Catholic church with the largest congregation in the United States. In 1996, to accommodate its large and growing membership, the church dedicated a 2,200-seat, fan-shaped worship space that presently hosts at least eight services each week. Although St. Matthew updated its sanctuary sound system in 2012 with a newer loudspeaker setup based on an exploded cluster design, in recent years, that system suffered from clarity and reliability issues, and ultimately succumbed to a lightning strike late last year. The church’s production team had already been in talks with SES Integration of nearby Concord to design a retrofit PA system that would provide improved intelligibility, coverage and dependability. As the integration division of Winston-Sale
UK/USA - Studiomaster has appointed Italian Speaker Imports (ISI) as its exclusive authorised US distributor. Formed in 2014, the New York State headquartered company boats a roster of brands that includes FBT, JTS and Bespeco. In a deal cemented at this year’s NAMM show, ISI adds the British PA company and its ranges of audio mixing consoles, amplifier products and loudspeakers to its existing portfolio. ISI’s owner and president, John Krupa, states, “The partnership represents the combination of high-quality products and outstanding service and integrity. A significant aspect of ISI’s mission is to work with premium global brands in the audio industry and bring outstanding quality products to the U.S. market. Studiomaster offers superior products that are held to the highest standards of quality control, resulting in a range of sound mixers, amplifiers, and l
The Netherlands - With over 30 years’ experience of mixing live music and theatre, Richard van Dorland is a Dutch sound engineer with a musical heart. Working with artists who mix acoustic and electric instruments to craft songs with a high level of dynamics, he sees himself as an extension of the musicians and their performance. His investment in an Alcons Audio pro-ribbon system has ensured that audiences enjoy every detail of the sound. “I pride myself on having an ear for detail,” he says. “I give every musician the attention they need, creating space for their instrument and the ensemble sound. Each instrument gets its own place in the acoustic image, creating a clear balance to give the listener an open, transparent experience.” Richard is well known in the Netherlands for his work with various national and international artists, including renowned Dutc
The Netherlands - Restaurants in Amsterdam recently began to re-open their outdoor spaces, and in an effort to enrich the customer dining experience, AVL Rent teamed up with food wholesaler Bid Food and popular Dutch rapper Lange Frans to stage a day of performances at six popular eateries. Lange Frans’s whistle-stop tour involved arriving at each venue by car, performing two or three songs, taking a bow and moving on to the next assignment. Wouter Ruijiter, owner of AVL Rent, explains: “Times are very tough right now, but from the start of lockdown we kept our minds open to every possibility, thinking of ways we could operate safely within the restrictions. People love live entertainment and their appetite for it was only going to increase during this crisis. As soon as certain restrictions began to be lifted, it was clear we could do something on a small scale th
Europe - Powersoft reports it has gained certification for its amplifiers to be used in Public Address and Voice Alarm (PAVA) systems according to the European EN 54-16 requirements. The EN 54-16 certification describes the required testing and performance criteria for a Voice Alarm Control and Indication Equipment (VACIE) for use in alarm systems installed in buildings, where the alarm signal is in the form of a tone, or voice message, or both. The certification now covers the extended range of Powersoft’s fixed install dedicated amplifiers, including the Ottocanali, Quattrocanali, Duecanali, as well as the X Series. The importance of PAVA systems is widely recognised as an effective way to produce a timely reaction in most people when using voice guidance in emergency situations as opposed to the response to text and alarm bell information, which under half of ind
Japan - Founded in Los Angeles in 2012, 800º Degrees Woodfired Kitchen boasts eight outlets across the US, two in the Middle East and three in Japan. The latest, at the Tokyo International Forum, features a Yamaha background music system. The first 800º Degrees restaurant in Japan opened at Tokyo’s Shinjuku City, followed by one in nearby Minami Aoyama. The latest is in the heart of the city’s Marunouchi business district, with seats for 100 diners and a VIP room for 10 people. “While maintaining the core Californian brand and taste, we have a dedicated concept for each restaurant, with a specially-designed interior and menu in each location,” says Mr Kazuma Suzuki, general manager of the market development department of Lumine Co, the Japanese retail developer which has brought the 800º Degrees brand to Japan. “The new restaurant is relatively large
China - State broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV) has installed China’s first full IP video mobile system for video production. This premiere mobile studio project uses the Lawo V__matrix software-defined IP-routing, processing and multi-viewing platform as its core technology infrastructure. CCTV, in conjunction with Lawo China and video partner Acro-bright, worked in cooperation with China’s large regional system integrator, Beijing Yutian, to achieve this success, the latest in a number of joint Lawo / CCTV installations which include HD / UHD OB vans, audio SCRs, and studios in CCTV’s Beijing headquarters. The UHD 4k designed mobile studio installation, originally planned to play a central role during the Summer Games 2020 broadcasts from Tokyo, began construction in January 2019 under the supervision of the CCTV Production Department. The project’
Iceland - The National Theatre of Iceland has made the leap to digital with Sennheiser. Reykjavik’s premier arts venue regularly attracts large audiences who expect the very highest quality every time the curtain raises. When it was time to update the venue’s audio equipment, Sennheiser’s Digital 6000 wireless microphone system - including the SK 6212 mini-bodypack transmitter - was the choice for Kristinn Gauti Einarsson, head of sound at the theatre. With three different shows every day and more than 10 premieres each year across its five stages, the National Theatre is operated with a leaner team and budget than most national theatres. Einarsson shares the secret behind their success: he has worked with the same musical composer, set designer and director for six years. “It’s so amazing to start new, great shows with the same team. Our collaboration and co
UK - PLASA has launched #WeMakeEvents, a new campaign with the aim of amplifying the industry’s voice and gaining meaningful Government support. Central to the campaign is a video highlighting the vital role of supply chain companies along with the freelance community and the devastating impact of the coronavirus pandemic upon the live events sector. PLASA is calling for people from across the industry to share the video across social media to give much needed exposure to the supply chain to events including production and rental companies, manufacturers and freelancers, to raise awareness of the need for longer term financial support. In addition to sharing the video, PLASA has published two infographics illustrating the complexity of the live events supply chain and
USA - LEA Professional has announced that its 160W and 80W Connect Series amplifiers are now shipping globally. The eight low-power models of IoT-enabled professional amplifiers provide system designers and integrators simple and cost-effective solutions for professional-grade, small-scale system installations, says the company. The new models consist of the Connect Series CS84, CS88, CS164, and CS168 in both Network and Dante. All eight of the Connect Series low-power models are built with fully-routable analogue input/outputs, as well as three network connection options: using the built-in Wi-Fi Access Point, connect to an existing Wi-Fi network, or using a Local Area Network Ethernet connection. Once connected to a network, integrators have access to LEA’s new cloud platform, leaprofessional.cloud for remote control and monitoring. “We’ve already seen
Belgium - Audac has announced the release of the AMP203 mini stereo amplifier. The unit features network input through Dante or AES67 providing a complete media networking solution to distribute uncompressed audio via standard Ethernet networks with near-zero latency, while allowing all other data to be connected on the same network. Various DSP functionalities are implemented in the AMP203. This allows all configurations to be made in Audac Touch 2 or via RS485 and Ethernet, making it a true 2 x 30W amplifier. The output connector has been implemented using a 4-pin terminal block connector, featuring an output power of 30W per channel and 60W when bridged. The AMP203’s brand new TouchLink technology ‘provides the perfect solution to create virtual zones by linking multiple TouchLink compatible devices such as the AMP203 with each other’. In Audac Touch 2 you can
UK/USA - Minnesota-based Williams AV will represent Ampetronic in the USA and Canada for all loop systems and support services from 1 July. This extends the companies’ strategic partnership into the USA and Canada having first announced a similar relationship for the UK and Europe in April. Ampetronic MD, Julian Pieters comments: “Ampetronic and Williams AV are long established as global champions for assistive listening, sharing a dedication to meeting the needs of hard of hearing people. This announcement comes at a time when we are seeing rapid growth of the North American and global hearing loop markets along with strong growth in the adoption of all installed hearing assistance. “We are delighted that Williams AV have chosen Ampetronic’s hearing
UK - PLASA is gearing up to launch a new video highlighting the vital role that the supply chain and backstage crew play in the production of concert touring, theatre, and live events. It is hoped that the video will shine a light on product manufacturers, production & rental companies, crew, designers, programmers and more – all in vital need of on-going Government support and often overlooked in mainstream media coverage of the effect of the coronavirus pandemic on the entertainment industry. Earlier this month, PLASA released two infographics illustrating how the live events supply chain will be impacted without further government support. The graphics reflect the number of people it takes to deliver just one performance - on average 443 professionals, spanning planning, design, preparatio
