AV Technology's Tech Manager's Guide to The Audio Guide - July 2024

THE TECHNOLOGY MANAGER’S GUIDE

JULY 2024

THE AUDIO GUIDE PLUS: 15 AV/IT THOUGHT LEADERS WITH SOUND ADVICE

BEST OF S

HOW

WINNERS ANNO UNCED

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AV/IT TEAM CREATES NEW ERA OF IMMERSIVE AUDIO 25 AV/IT ENTERPRISE AND CAMPUS-WORTHY PRODUCTS 9 CASE STUDIES TUNE INTO OUTSTANDING AUDIO

SPONSORS: ATLONA | BOGEN COMMUNICATIONS | HOLOSONICS | SENNHEISER | | SHURE | SOUNDTUBE | YAMAHA CORPORATION OF AMERICA |

WINNERS IN THIS ISSUE

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Editor’s Note.............................................................................. 04 Cindy Davis reflects on how networked AV has changed audio deployments.

AV/IT Teams .............................................................................. 06

Sennheiser

06

The team at Duke Kunshan University ushered in a new era of immersive audio.

Thought Leaders ...................................................................... 12 15 AV/IT industry thought leaders share their insights and sound advice on all things audio.

Case-in-Point ..............................................................................20 Nine outstanding examples of audio solutions on the cutting edge.

Infocomm 2024 Best of Show Winners .............................. 32 We are celebrating the InfoComm 2024 Best of Show winners for AV Technology, Digital Signage, and our sister publication, Tech & Learning.

PK Sound

20 Cover Image: Yamaha Corporation of America

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Products That Matter ............................................................. 72 Because without audio, there’s no there [videoconferencing], there, or anywhere.

FOLLOW US twitter.com/AVTechnologyMag CONTENT Brand and Content Director, Cindy Davis, cindy.davis@futurenet.com Contributing Writer, Macy O’Hearn Graphic Designers, Sam Richwood, Marc Miller Production Managers Heather Tatrow, Nicole Schilling ADVERTISING SALES Managing Vice President of Sales, B2B Tech Adam Goldstein, adam.goldstein@futurenet.com,

EDITOR’S NOTE

MAKING AUDIO SENSE

by Cindy Davis

212-378-0465 Janis Crowley, janis.crowley@futurenet.com, 845-414-6791 Debbie Rosenthal, debbie.rosenthal@futurenet.com, 212-378-0473

NETWORKED AV HAS CHANGED HOW

investing in reliable, high-quality technology that

audio systems are chosen, installed, and used.

meets current market standards.”

Flexibility, scalability, monitoring, and ease of use

While most audio solutions aim to ensure

845-678-3752

were associated with automated room systems.

speech intelligibility, sound masking does the

SUBSCRIBER CUSTOMER SERVICE

Today, an audio workflow not only applies to the

opposite. “Sound masking is more than just

front-of-house for big productions but also for

a white noise or pink noise generator,” said

audio in multiple meeting spaces and classrooms

Ronald Garcia, channel marketing manager at

across a global campus, performance theaters,

Bogen Communications. “It works by making

transportation spaces, and more.

conversations less intelligible to unintended

Zahra Majma, zahra.majma@futurenet.com,

To subscribe to AV Technology or Future’s other AV industry brands, go to https://www.smartbrief.com/subscribe LICENSING/REPRINTS/PERMISSIONS AVTechnology is available for licensing. Contact the Licensing team to discuss partnership opportunities. licensing@futurenet.com

Great audio doesn’t just happen; it requires

listeners, enhancing privacy, and helping people

MANAGEMENT

planning. Sennheiser’s Insight manager,

concentrate better. This boost in focus can

SVP, MD, B2B Amanda Darman-Allen

David Missall, emphasized, “Engaging AV

significantly increase productivity and performance

VP, Global Head of Content, B2B Carmel King

and architectural professionals from the

while making the workplace more comfortable by

beginning ensures that audio requirements

cutting down on distracting chatter.

MD, Content, AV, Anthony Savona VP, Head of US Sales, B2B, Tom Sikes Managing VP of Sales, B2B Tech Adam Goldstein VP, Global Head of Strategy & Ops, B2B Allison Markert, VP, Product & Marketing, B2B Scott Lowe Head of Production US & UK Mark Constance Head of Design, B2B Nicole Cobban FUTURE US, INC. 130 West 42nd Street, 7th Floor New York NY 10036

All contents ©2024 Future US, Inc. or published under licence. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used, stored, transmitted or reproduced in any way without the prior written permission of the publisher. Future Publishing Limited (company number 2008885) is registered in England and Wales. Registered office: Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All information contained in this publication is for information only and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. Future cannot accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such information. You are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard to the price of products/services referred to in this publication. Apps and websites mentioned in this publication are not under our control. We are not responsible for their contents or any other changes or updates to them. This magazine is fully independent and not affiliated in any way with the companies mentioned herein.

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Chief Executive Officer Jon Steinberg Non-Executive Chairman Richard Huntingford Chief Financial and Strategy Officer Penny Ladkin-Brand

Tel +44 (0)1225 442 244

are fully incorporated into the overall design,

Check out the AV/IT Teams article to learn how

troubleshooting issues and minimizing any

Duke Kunshan University developed a fully digital

future ones.”

and distributed AV-over-IP architecture for the

“It’s important to remember that we don’t

campus. Based on Dante, Sennheiser’s TCC 2 is

deliver sound to a room, but rather to the users of

seamlessly integrated into the campus network,

the room. Who needs to hear the presentation?

together with other audio equipment.

Who doesn’t? This perspective helps to guide our

Then, check out our nine case studies that

equipment selection to ensure we meet all the

highlight some of the most cutting-edge audio

users’ needs,” said Joseph Stulpin, technical sales at

technologies available. For instance, the main

Holosonics.

theater of the Kani City Cultural Creation Center

“Today’s systems with distributed architecture

has an acoustic reflection pattern that has a short

(DSP built into the microphones) offer advantages,

reverberation time. Yamaha’s Active Field Control

keeping room system designs simple and

(AFC) Immersive Audio System was deployed to

flexible,” said Tim Mackie, field sales Engineer at

help solve the problem.

Yamaha Corporation of America. “This makes

The South Terminal Complex of the Orlando

accommodating many applications like combining

International Airport features an innovative

and dividing rooms a simple task.”

experiential media environment that creates an

Vanessa Jensen, market development manager

unforgettable travel experience for passengers.

at Shure, added, “When selecting an audio

Key audio requirements included providing

solution, confirm which technology is certified for

ambient, multichannel audio to complement the

use with other collaboration tools present in your

visuals on the Windows on Orlando video screen.

space. Knowing which audio solutions are certified

We’re always looking for great case studies to

for platforms like Microsoft Teams Rooms helps

feature. If you have a project you’d like to see in the

IT professionals and AV managers know they are

spotlight, email me at cindy.davis@futurenet.com.

AV/IT TEAM

A New Era of Immersive Audio When a university with global ties makes a massive microphone upgrade, enhanced hybrid teaching capabilities are just the beginning.

By AV Technology Staff

With the installation of 116 units of Sennheiser's TCC 2 throughout the campus, the university ensured that every space could benefit from reliable, high-quality audio.

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L

ocated in Kunshan, China, Duke Kunshan University is a world-class, research-oriented educational institution with a strong focus on liberal arts and sciences.

Set within an expansive 80-hectare campus, the university offers a broad spectrum of high-quality and innovative academic programs. It provides an inclusive and multicultural environment for students from around the world, with the objective of nurturing future leaders across disciplines.

The Duke Kunshan University project is the university’s phase two deployment of audio-video system. It is a large-scale project that involves implementation of solutions across 22 buildings, covering 29 classrooms, 20 conference rooms, as well as a visitor’s center. After considering several top global brands, the Duke Kunshan University team headed by chief engineer William Wan selected Sennheiser’s TCC 2, which stood out for its state-of-the-art audio technology, brand-agnostic integration, and a proven track record of successful global applications. So far, the university has equipped 50 multifunctional classrooms and spaces with a total of 116 units of Sennheiser TeamConnect Ceiling 2 (TCC 2). These TCC 2s offer an exceptional hybrid learning experience, characterized by superior sound quality and efficient setup.

Photos courtesy of Sennheiser

HYBRID TEACHING, REMOTE CONFERENCING The classes at Duke Kunshan University are taught by not only locally based professors, but also professors from Duke University in the United States and many others from across the globe. Therefore, one of the school’s requirements for this project was to make sure that all the classrooms could support a hybrid learning experience. The university was especially particular about the audio system; they wanted crystal-clear sound quality delivered by a stable and reliable system, ease of operation and,

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last but not least, a flexible system that can be used in different room types, configurations, and learning environments.

TCC 2, equipped with patented dynamic beamforming technology, can automatically identify speakers' positions and seamlessly switch between different speakers in real-time, ensuring clear voice capture. Lecturers now have freedom of movement and can interact with students freely. This technology also offers flexibility in arranging classroom layouts, which greatly enhances the learning experience. Its 28 integrated broadcast-level microphone capsules ensure superb speech intelligibility. The remote participants can hear the speakers as if they were in a face-to-face interaction.

In addition to classrooms, Duke Kunshan University also placed a great emphasis on the audio and visual system design and integration in its conference rooms, where virtual meetings are conducted. For this project, the TCC 2 is integrated with the Biamp DSP and the Sony PTZ camera tracking functionality to synchronize the speaker’s location with the cameras.

Consequently, real-time camera switching based on speaker changes becomes possible, which delivers a more realistic, efficient, and immersive experience.

Another highlight of this project is the visitor’s center. The university constructed this spacious, 400-square-meter facility to encourage exchanges between professors and students. The center was also designed to be a flexible space that could be configured to serve as an event and exhibition area. For this space, the school wanted not just high-quality audio for conferencing use, but also a system that could elevate in-room audio capabilities. To fulfill this requirement, three units of TCC 2 were installed in the visitors center. The TruVoicelift functionality guarantees that everyone’s voice can be heard clearly from every corner of the room, without any distortion or delays.

SIMPLIFIED AND BRAND AGNOSTIC It took the Duke Kunshan University three years to complete this phase two deployment from design to complete implementation.

Besides it being a large-scale project, it is also incredibly complex, since an extensive variety of products from different brands, such as Biamp DSP, Bose speakers, and a Crestron control system had to be integrated. Therefore,

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The comprehensive technical and training support that Sennheiser provided contributed greatly to our progress and success in tuning and optimizing the system."

— William Wan, chief engineer of Duke Kunshan University

seamless product integration at every stage and simplified workflows were crucial. This is also the principal challenge that the team at the Duke Kunshan University faced.

Wan oversaw the audio system design. His team developed a fully digital and distributed AV-over-IP architecture for the campus. Based on Dante, TCC 2 is seamlessly integrated into the campus network, together with audio equipment from various brands. This allows the IT manager to monitor and control a variety of different devices across the campus in real time, through mobile tablets or desktop devices. This substantially simplifies the workflow, while ensuring reliable performance.

Sennheiser Global Alliances is founded on its brand-agnostic approach, which ensures maximum flexibility for customers. Platform certifications play a crucial role in this approach, as they guarantee seamless interoperability of Sennheiser products with platforms for which they are certified. The TCC 2 is certified for use with numerous mainstream video conferencing platforms, including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Tencent Meeting, and DingTalk Meeting. This satisfies the diverse preferences and needs of various users.

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CUSTOMER-CENTERED SERVICE Throughout the course of the project, Sennheiser engineers made numerous visits to the site, meticulously working and adjusting room by room to ensure optimal placement and angling of every TCC 2 to achieve the best speech intelligibility.

“The exceptional quality of the TCC 2 is unquestionable,” Wan remarked. “The Sennheiser team also played a significant role in the successful execution of the project. The comprehensive technical and training support that Sennheiser provided contributed greatly to our progress and success in tuning and optimizing the system.”

Wan continued. “For future development plans, we look forward to continuing working with Sennheiser to further enhance our audio-video facilities, thereby enhancing the immersive learning and collaboration experience for our educators and students.”

Sennheiser will continue to pay close attention to the evolving trends and shifting requirements of the education sector, and is committed to shaping the future of audio for smart education, with continuous innovation, unparalleled audio products, and cutting-edge technologies.

William Wan is the chief engineer at Duke Kunshan University.

Pictured left to right: Vega Cao, Sennheiser Gary Gu, Duke Kunshan University Vivian Zhao, Sennheiser Daniel Sennheiser, Sennheiser William Wan, DKU Julius Zhang, DKU

We look forward to continuing working with Sennheiser to further enhance our audio-video facilities, thereby enhancing the immersive learning and collaboration experience for our educators and students."

— William Wan, chief engineer of Duke Kunshan University

THOUGHT LEADERS

SOUND ADVICE

By Cindy Davis and Macy O’Hearn

N

etworked AV has changed how audio systems are chosen,

installed, and used. Flexibility, scalability, monitoring, and ease of use were terms associated with automated room systems. Today, an audio workflow not only applies to the front-of-house for big productions but also for audio in multiple meeting spaces and classrooms across a

global campus, performance theaters, transportation spaces, and more.

We asked 15 AV/IT industry thought leaders to share their insights and sound advice on all things audio.

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Photograph courtesy of Sennheiser

DAVID MISSALL Insight Manager Sennheiser Despite the prevalence of video, the last few years have proved how essential high-quality audio is to collaboration and productivity in meetings and classrooms.

Almost everyone has felt how frustrating the meeting experience can become when there’s an echo, the audio drops out—or worse—the audio and video goes down. However, great audio doesn’t just happen; it requires planning.

Engaging AV and architectural professionals from the beginning ensures that audio requirements are fully incorporated into the overall design, troubleshooting issues and minimizing any future ones.

When planning a space for audio conferencing, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the space’s primary use cases, size, and the end user’s workflow. Is it a two-person huddle room or 50-person lecture hall? This foresight helps in making informed decisions about the type of audio equipment needed, whether that’s a soundbar, boundary mics, ceiling microphones, or a combination of many audio elements. It’s also important to think about whether advanced features like voice lift or beamforming technology are necessary to enhance audio quality.

Room acoustics also play a significant role. Rooms with hard surfaces can result in echoes and reverberation, making it difficult to understand speech. Using sound-absorbing materials like carpets, curtains, and acoustic panels can mitigate these issues. Room layout can significantly impact acoustics as well, so arranging furniture to minimize sound reflections will ensure an optimal listening area. Additionally, regularly test and calibrate your audio equipment to maintain peak performance.

For those looking to streamline the planning process, Sennheiser offers its Room Planner configuration tool. This free, browser-based platform allows AV teams to map out their space and identify the best audio solutions tailored to their environment. Whether designing a new room or updating an existing one, the Room Planner helps you visualize and implement the optimal setup for any given space.

JOSEPH STULPIN Technical Sales, Holosonics Today’s meeting spaces present unique and emerging challenges for specifying the most suitable audio equipment.

It’s important to remember that we don’t deliver sound to a room, but rather to the users of the room. Who needs to hear the presentation?

Who doesn’t? This perspective helps to guide our equipment selection to ensure we meet all of the users’ needs.

We must consider all anticipated configurations of the space before we can truly address the system requirements. For example, a meeting room may need to serve a single user for a private one-on-one conferencing session, but then quickly shift gears to accommodate a huddle meeting or larger group presentation. In an open concept environment, this flexibility may require array microphones and/or controlled directivity loudspeakers that offer precise coverage for the individual, with supplemental equipment intended for the larger crowd.

An agile system that is able to adapt to various configurations can be essential for a meeting space to be used to its full potential.

True success means delivering value to all users of the space. Rather than taking a “one-size-fitsall” approach, we should encourage exploration into the latest advancements in AV technology, and rethink how we design our spaces to be more user-centric. By focusing on the people, we can create environments that truly enhance communication, collaboration, and productivity.

RONALD GARCIA Channel Marketing Manager Bogen Communications Sound masking in AV setups is a game-changer for improving speech privacy and reducing distractions from unwanted sounds. Since the 1990s, sound masking systems have been helping to mask conversations, making them harder to overhear. This not only protects privacy, but also minimizes distractions for others nearby, letting them stay focused on their tasks.

But sound masking is more than just a white noise or pink noise generator! It works by making conversations less intelligible to unintended listeners, enhancing privacy and helping people concentrate better. This boost in focus can significantly increase productivity and performance while making the workplace more comfortable by cutting down on distracting chatter.

To create an optimal acoustic environment, think about the ABCDs of acoustic design: absorb, block, cover, and divide. The “cover” part is where sound masking comes in, effectively controlling unwanted sounds without compromising your open layout and floor plan.

Privacy needs can change throughout the day and week, so sound masking systems should allow for customizable zones that can be individually tuned. This means you can schedule when and where sound masking is active, control the volume, and adjust settings as needed. A good system will also ease people into the sound masking experience by starting at a lower level and gradually increasing the volume over several days.

Sound masking is essential for protecting sensitive information and creating a pleasant atmosphere in various settings. From corporate offices and educational institutions to healthcare facilities and houses of worship, any place that needs more speech privacy and fewer distractions can benefit from this technology.

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TIM MACKIE Field Sales Engineer Yamaha Corporation of America Best practices for optimizing audio for conferences and meeting spaces start with careful consideration of room acoustics, microphone and speaker choice and placement, and the correct digital signal processor (DSP). It’s also critical to understand the end user’s expectations of how they will be using the room.

Room acoustics affect productivity, communication, and overall well-being during a conference. Excessive background noise and reverberation lead to decreased concentration, heightened stress, or misunderstandings. The size and shape of the room, construction materials, and the layout all influence acoustics.

Acoustic treatments including panels, carpets, soft furnishings, curtains, and strategically placed non-reflective services also help to reduce reverberation and absorb sound. A minimal investment in cloth and wood can go a long way.

Today’s systems with distributed architecture (DSP built into the microphones) offer advantages, keeping room system designs simple and flexible. This makes accommodating many applications like combining and dividing rooms a simple task. Intelligent automation (AI) with auto setup and auto tuning, gain control, noise reduction, dereverberation, microphone automixing, and acoustic echo cancellation optimize speech intelligibility.

There are many microphone types to choose from: omnidirectional, directional, beamforming, handheld, wearable, et cetera. Directional microphones close to the participants are best, as these microphones are focused on the audio we want and not the ambient noise in the room.

Dynamic multibeam microphones are an excellent choice for cost-effective coverage of larger areas.

We know that evenly distributed sound is crucial for effective meetings. Speakers should be positioned strategically based on speaker output, decibel level, and dispersion pattern to avoid feedback loops and to ensure clear audio throughout the room. High-performance PoE line array speakers have really changed the game in all types of meeting environments, since they provide controlled sound dispersion, consistent volume level, and even coverage whether participants are sitting close or further away.

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VANESSA JENSEN Market Development Manager Shure As we shifted from in-person meeting experiences to today’s hybrid corporate and educational environments, achieving highquality audio has become even more critical to facilitating effective collaboration. Delivering superior audio performance requires optimizing your conference and meeting spaces through a range of adjustments, including altering the space and choosing technology that works together to meet each room’s unique acoustics.

When rooms are not set up for hybrid environments, the lack of cooperation between the technology in use and the space’s acoustics becomes apparent and can lead to distractions and lack of clarity.

For this reason, the selection of audio technology is critical to ensuring complete optimization of a space. This choice will depend on how your space is set up, which is why it is important to ensure these adjustments can take place concurrently. If you are in a smaller meeting space, one microphone may be enough to ensure participants’ intelligibility.

As rooms get larger, you will need more technology to capture clear audio from all meeting participants in the room. For example, a ceiling array microphone would allow for optimal coverage at the far reaches of a large conference room.

When selecting an audio solution, confirm which technology is certified for use with other collaboration tools present in your space.

Knowing which audio solutions are certified for platforms like Microsoft Teams Rooms helps IT professionals and AV managers know they are investing in reliable, high-quality technology that meets current market standards.

A successful conferencing environment, whether for corporate or educational environments, provides technology that is easy to set up and encourages communication among participants. With a high-quality suite of audio devices that provide solutions for all participants, regardless of where they are located, we can ensure that all employees and students have access to the same high-quality level of collaboration.

PETER GRANBERG Pro Audio and Software Product Manager Panasonic From state-of-the-art classrooms and lecture halls to corporate environments, audio plays a crucial role in delivering clear and crisp sound to all audiences. As administrators and professors seek technology that can easily adapt to the needs of any space, corporations and higher ed institutions continue to invest in ceiling microphones and wireless audio solutions.

When it comes to setting up any audio solution, it is crucial to understand the environment the audio is going into. Here are some questions to ask: How big will the room be? Will the room layout change or will it be the same? Will the room have any reflective surfaces, or will there be some sound proofing?

Is there an existing audio system and will new pieces need to be integrated, or will the room be created from scratch? Do you want analog or digital, or both? These are some of the many questions that will need to be answered when installing any type of audio solution. Without understanding the environment, one can put the best and the most expensive audio system in, and it might not even sound all that good!

A favorite audio solution right now are ceiling microphones; however, not all are created equal. For best results, look for ceiling microphones that are easy to install and which automatically adjust the microphone’s sensitivity based on the location of the speaker, regardless of where they are standing. Ceiling microphones should be designed with intuitive software and built-in integration with PTZ cameras, offering easy operation for more realistic experiences so presenters can focus on presenting and educators can focus on teaching—not on worrying about controlling technology. It is also equally important to work with a solutions partner who works closely with their customers to provide peace of mind and a worry-free ownership experience.

VIVEK SEKAR Director of Product Management Logitech Clear audio is a critical component for any productive and equitable meeting but, at Logitech, we also focus on the adaptability teams need for various work styles and spaces.

Medium and large meeting spaces present unique audio issues, where the placement of microphones and the room’s layout can negatively impact capturing back-of-the-room participants. This leads to unproductive and inequitable experiences. It can be more difficult in larger spaces to ensure each in-room participant is equally heard by remote attendees. Larger rooms also pose challenges, with an increased number of participants and diverse layouts resulting in irregular distances between the microphone and speaker(s), while long and narrow spaces with obstacles like columns can also impact acoustics and audio setup.

“We recommend identifying the space dimensions that impact the audio and the needs of in-room participants.”

— Vivek Sekar, director of Product Management at Logitech

To address these challenges, we recommend identifying the space dimensions that impact the audio and the needs of in-room participants to narrow down corresponding solutions that ensure optimal experiences for everyone.

For example, in large meeting rooms with distributed participants, Logitech’s Rally Mic Pod allows for versatile placement of multiple peripheral microphones, capturing the audio of participants seated farther from the front of the room. In rooms that require additional cameras to capture the meeting space, Logitech Sight, our AI-powered tabletop product, works with Rally Bar or Rally Bar Mini to stream the

video of the in-room participants and capture conversations from around the room with microphones. It is designed to give remote attendees a view of each in-room participant as if the remote attendees were physically present in the middle of the room. Rally Bar, on the other hand, has ultra-low-distortion speakers with RightSound 2 technology, offering the audio output needed for larger meeting rooms.

When thinking about today’s spaces and meeting experiences, we emphasize crystalclear audio regardless of room size, the flexibility to fit any configuration, and unmatched clarity and power.

BRIAN REILLY Regional Sales Manager Listen Technologies When planning audio for a classroom or corporate meeting space, accessibility should be paramount.

Approach room setup and equipment procurement with an inclusive mindset. Consider how you can help everyone in the physical meeting space, as well as all remote participants, hear clearly and feel included. There are a number of best practices AV/IT managers, administrators, and presenters can take to ensure everyone has a positive listening experience.

First, audit the meeting space to identify and address potential audio challenges. These could include background noises, visual distractions, multiple presenters, and the distances students or employees will be from audio sources. Also consider how you can support neurodivergent meeting participants, people with hearing loss, and anyone needing language interpretation.

Second, ensure microphones, speakers, video monitors, assistive listening systems, and other audio-visual equipment are available and functioning properly. Check that audio from video conferencing platforms feeds into the in-room assistive listening system. If confidentiality is important, ensure audio will not spill over into adjacent spaces.

Third, encourage class and meeting participants to speak clearly and slowly, use microphones, and face their listeners as they are able. Request that remote participants mute microphones when they are not speaking and minimize background noise and visual distractions as much as possible.

Fourth, seek guidance from student accessibility resources and/or company HR departments to understand and ensure compliance with all assistive listening accessibility requirements.

And finally, provide assistive listening devices and make them easily accessible to anyone who would like to use them. Notify participants (via posted signage, social media, et cetera) that an assistive listening system is available and provide instructions on how to access the system. System technology options include induction loop, radio frequency, infrared, and audio over Wi-Fi. When classrooms, meeting rooms, and other public spaces are designed for audio accessibility, all participants can hear and fully engage.

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GRAHAM HENDRY Vice President of Loudspeaker Strategy AtlasIED Speech intelligibility is paramount, whether a meeting or class is in person, virtual, or hybrid. If attendees can’t hear or understand what’s being said, their ability to learn and retain information is compromised. The higher the speech intelligibility, the easier it is to retain information and understand the topic of conversation. Speech intelligibility can be improved by focusing or directing the sound on the audience instead of unused areas in the room like the ceiling or floors. An excellent solution to address these challenges is digitally steerable loudspeaker technology.

Beam steering allows the user to focus acoustical output on a specified listening area without physically or mechanically aiming the loudspeaker. There are no motors inside the loudspeaker. Instead, each transducer has its own DSP and amplifier channel, resulting in the ability to tailor beams via software in very granular increments, allowing acute steering capability to wherever the user desires.

By directing sound towards the audience and away from other surfaces that may cause reflections, digitally steerable loudspeakers deliver highly intelligible speech and natural music reproduction. In many cases, digitally steered products are the only way to achieve the required levels of speech intelligibility in reverberant spaces. Eliminating the need to physically tilt the loudspeakers means that digitally beam-steered loudspeakers can often be mounted directly to the wall, hung plumb, or even placed flush inside the wall.

Implementing beam-steering technology has completely reimagined countless meeting spaces and classrooms. When we’re provided with all of the information we need, it’s no surprise that we perform better.

JOE DA SILVA Vice President of Marketing Extron It may be surprising, but the primary mode of interaction within a presentation space isn’t speaking, it’s listening. Typical meeting and educational spaces often face acoustical challenges, such as background noise, reverberation, and distance, that undermine the presenters’ efforts and the audience’s comprehension. One of the ways to overcome these barriers is to create a sound field within the space using a wired or wireless microphone, amplifier, and speakers.

In classrooms, studies have shown that significant gains in student achievement and teacher effectiveness can be made by simply ensuring that the teacher can be heard.

Extrapolating this practice to a meeting space can yield equally effective outcomes.

The function of a space will largely drive the form and configuration it takes. Making a better human connection should be a priority, as the ability to be heard and seen is necessary for today’s communications. While targeting facial expressions and body language will increase this human connection and bring the hybrid space to life, quality audio is the key ingredient.

For larger gatherings, a formal meeting room equipped with integrated sound reinforcement is necessary, so that all participants can be fully engaged. In each of these environments, the inclusion of unified communications and conferencing technology allow remote meeting participants to collaborate effectively.

Quality presentation environments always incorporate high-quality audio technologies.

Recent innovations in microphone, speaker, and amplifier design make it easier than ever to turn a typical classroom-sized space into a well-suited presentation or learning environment where intelligibility is a primary goal.

Whether you are setting up a single room or multiple spaces, leveraging the expertise of experienced professionals can make a significant difference. While there are many options to consider, investing in the right audio setup and seeking professional guidance to do so, will ultimately enhance comprehension, engagement, and overall effectiveness in your meeting or educational spaces.

DAVID ALBRIGHT Senior Business Development Manager, Hybrid Collaboration and Learning Legrand | AV When evaluating the audio quality of collaboration and learning spaces, it’s crucial to consider the room holistically. The goal is to design environments that prioritize people, no matter where they are. This approach fosters organizations where employees and students feel valued, have a sense of belonging, and perform at their best.

Post-pandemic, we’ve recognized the need for equity in both physical and virtual spaces.

Historically, in-person meetings and classrooms offered a superior experience compared to remote participation. During the pandemic, remote participants enjoyed a more personalized experience, thanks to the proximity of laptop microphones. Now, as people return to legacy conference rooms and classrooms, it’s those in person who struggle to feel included. The priority must be to elevate the in-room experience, ensuring

“A comprehensive strategy not only elevates the user experience but also drives better outcomes.”

— David Albright, senior Business Development manager, Hybrid Collaboration and Learning at Legrand | AV seamless connectivity and engagement for everyone, whether they are present physically or joining remotely. This requires room designs that enhance the audio conferencing experience while keeping the technology user friendly.

There are specific ways to achieve a superior design. Audio bars, like our Vaddio Venture VideoBAR, are excellent solutions for many spaces.

However, ceiling or table microphones, such as the EasyIP CeilingMIC or TableMIC, can provide more localized spatial audio. Paired with AI-capable video cameras, these solutions help to manage the flow of conversation, ensuring that speakers are heard clearly without interruptions or troubleshooting.

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Furniture and acoustic treatments also contribute significantly to meeting equity. The Middle Atlantic Forum Collaboration Suite, including display stands and table options, is designed to orient meeting attendees around the camera or video bar, ensuring they are seen and heard clearly.

The suite includes dampening materials to mitigate reverberation, enhancing audio quality.

Organizations that take a holistic approach to audio design will be better positioned to create effective, productive collaborative and learning environments. This comprehensive strategy not only elevates the user experience but also drives better outcomes.

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DUSTIN PLUMB Senior Manager, AV Solutions Crestron As with video, audio solutions depend on the room. One needs to consider everything from the size of the space to its intended function.

For a small niche or a huddle room, a video bar’s built-in mics and speakers are often sufficient. As rooms get larger, however, many more considerations come into play.

First, how “live” is the space—is some manner of sound diffusion or absorption needed to keep reverberations to a minimum? The fix can often be as simple as heavy drapes or upholstered furnishings, but, failing that, can audio be tuned via DSP? Next, are the microphones part of an intelligent video system that assists in speaker tracking? (There are five types of mics, and each has its own best use cases.)

Is the room so large that it demands some kind of sound reinforcement for in-person meeting attendees? Some boardrooms have been effectively outfitted with mix-minus mic and speaker setups that amplify everyone’s voice in the room—keeping collaborators from raising their voices to ensure those at the other end of the space can hear them. Those mics double as an audio source for remote collaborators.

Are there enough speakers in the room to distribute audio effectively throughout the space without distortion? While it seems counterintuitive, the more speakers you have in a space, the less volume (and power) you’ll need.

In-ceiling speakers seem to be the default option for most business and educational applications, but some industrial spaces demand pendant speakers. Front-of-house PA audio systems are also sometimes a must for lecture halls or large training rooms.

And lastly, is the room built for multiple configurations? For our part, we’ve created Crestron Flex Pods for these deployments. It’s a hub-and-spoke system featuring movable pods—each outfitted with a mic and speaker in a single unit. They’re also an excellent option for retrofitting a room without opening the walls.

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EDDY BØGH BRIXEN Audio Specialist DPA Microphones Acoustics have an enormous impact on communication. The most important audio consideration in a conference/meeting space is the reverberation time (RT) of the room, which impacts intelligibility and acoustic comfort. Using the RT60 standard (the time it takes a sound source to reduce by 60dB) the recommended RT of a space should normally be less than or equal to 0.6 seconds, and it should remain consistent throughout the frequency range. However, rooms can often become overdamped at higher frequencies, while other common acoustical problems regarding sound insulation include doors missing seals, lightweight walls, open ventilation ducts, or loudspeakers mounted on walls.

In a classic boardroom or classroom, the ceiling can function as a reflector, contributing to the sound distribution. Highly absorbent ceilings muffle sound, so no one in the back row can hear what’s happening unless there is adequate microphone/loudspeaker coverage.

Additionally, rooms with glass windows on all sides present a major challenge. If there are no curtains to reduce reflections, it can be quite uncontrollable. This is especially true for solutions with multiple microphones or arrays controlling cameras via the presenter’s vocal cues.

Room noise can also come from traffic, projector fans, or the installation itself, but room noise should remain low to ensure an ideal conference setup. Fortunately, it’s now rare to find electro-acoustical systems that emit a buzzing noise due to poor wiring.

Good acoustics require adequate soundproofing, especially for confidential conversations. Further absorption materials should be distributed on different surfaces for higher efficiency and to avoid flutter echo.

Using high-quality, professional solutions— like DPA’s 4098 CORE Supercardioid Gooseneck Microphone—which feature very low noise will further enhance the audio of a conference space.

NANCY KNOWLTON Chief Executive Officer Nureva Increasingly, we hear from our customers that flexibility in the use of their spaces is a prime consideration.

Organizations are advising IT managers that they want the ultimate—for anyone to do whatever they want within a space, whenever they want—and IT managers are actively committing to enabling just that. In a higher ed environment, that could mean a room is used as a classroom, a faculty meeting space, an active collaboration space, or a student workspace, both with and without remote participants. At a base level, furniture and technology products must be aligned with those needs.

We think it’s prudent to start with some baseline assumptions about the prime use configurations and make sure they’re well supported. IT managers should share those setups with users to ensure alignment and provide a starting point for their planning.

Furniture on wheels is a must so users can set up the room in the way that works best for their purpose. A big table, multiple small group tables, and clusters of chairs for conversation are all possible within the same space when furniture can be easily moved.

The communications platform—Microsoft Teams or Zoom—can handle both in-room and remote collaboration needs. Multiple wallmounted cameras can deliver different camera views. Multiple displays around the room can create different focal points and collaboration spaces. Of course, the audio system needs to pick up voices anywhere in the space for a great experience for remote participants.

And, don’t forget that some technology can be made mobile as well—large displays on stands can be pulled into rooms for the ultimate in small group collaboration.

This model for delivering flexible usage doesn’t have to be complicated. With so many systems and components being plug and play, users and IT managers really can have it all.

TOM OLIVER Director of Commercial AV Vanco International Over the last several years, video has gotten a lot of attention from AV technology managers, and I can see why. When it came to solving the needs of hybrid environments, video represented a hole in a lot of systems, and the advancements in video technology seemed to be running at a steady pace. But as we all know—what is video when it’s not backed by great audio? There are some simple ways to maximize the audio in meeting rooms and classroom spaces. Below are the top three things I would recommend paying special attention to on your next project.

First, the key to effective audio in a classroom or meeting space is achieving uniform coverage. A 70V system is ideal because it ensures even sound distribution, avoiding “best” and “worst” listener positions.

For large or complex spaces like an auditorium-

“Audio systems require careful consideration to provide the most effective solutions.”

— Tom Oliver, director of Commercial AV, Vanco International

style classroom, use overlapping coverage patterns and test rigorously to meet the AVIXA Audio Coverage Uniformity standard, which suggests no more than a 6dB drop-off in sound levels across the room.

Second, an amplifier that can handle multiple input types and balance them correctly is essential to maintaining a seamless audio experience. This includes handling both wireless and wired inputs effectively, ensuring that there are no drops or latency issues during presentations or discussions. A well-chosen amplifier is also key for finding that coverage uniformity we discussed earlier. Selecting an

amplifier with built-in DSP allows you to fine tune the audio output to match the room’s acoustics.

Third, simplify operation by setting up presets that can be activated with a single button. This reduces the risk of errors during use and ensures consistent audio quality.

Programmable buttons linked to clearly labeled presets can make system management intuitive for anyone who is using the room.

Audio systems require careful consideration to provide the most effective solutions. By focusing on these three areas, you can ensure every project gets off to the right start.

Photos courtesy Yamaha UC

CASE IN-POINT

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AUDIO CONTROL ENABLES LIVE CULTURAL EXPERIENCES Kani is a city of 100,000 residents located in the south-central Gifu Prefecture of Japan. At the heart of the city lies the Kani City Cultural Creation Center. The venue was built to serve as a focal point for the city’s civic activities, including large-scale performances that involve local talent and community-building workshops, as well as to provide a nurturing environment for performing artists and community arts workers.

The main theater of the Kani City Cultural Creation Center is designed primarily for live theatrical performances, with an acoustic reflection pattern that has a short reverberation time of about 1.6 seconds. In early 2024, the venue hosted an event in which contemporary dance was performed to an orchestral accompaniment. The performance involved dancers on stage, while the orchestra was seated in a pit that was raised from the pit floor to stage level at different times during the performance. The event challenged the venue staff to find a way to enhance the experience for the audience, as the theater’s acoustic reflectors and additional curtain decorations used in the performance would significantly absorb the sound and not provide a rich, reverberant and immersive atmosphere. The acoustic and audio engineers saw this as an opportunity to elevate the audio experience for the audience, so they reached out to Yamaha for its renowned Active Field Control (AFC) Immersive Audio System that would transfer audio over a Dante network.

“The AFC system is based on the assumption that all signals, from the AFC engine and digital mixer to the processor, are exchanged via Dante,” Hayato Ikeda, a sound engineer with the Kani City Cultural Creation Center said. “This theater has permanent audio equipment that is fully compatible with Dante, from the Yamaha digital mixer to the power amplifiers, so we were able to make the decision to give AFC a try.”

The detailed, dimensional, regenerative electronic reverberation control capabilities of Yamaha’s AFC Enhance were used in the theater to create acoustic spaces in which acoustic images were positioned and controlled by AFC Image.

For AFC Enhance, two rows of four microphones

were hung from the ceiling to collect the natural sound in the theater, and Ikeda used that sound to process and create a consistent resonance throughout the room regardless of the orchestra pit position. For AFC Image, 37 microphones were set up in the orchestra pit, and seven boundary microphones were mounted on stage for the dancers. The microphones in the pit were mainly targeted at string instruments and reinforced the parts of the performance where the sound of string instruments has difficulty reaching the audience when the orchestra pit is lowered. The microphone inputs were passed to a Yamaha QL5 digital mixer for EQ before being sent to the AFC engine for spatial processing before being amplified through 37 NEXO speakers installed throughout the theater.

The effect of the spatial audio experience delivered during the performance was transformative and sounded very natural—so natural that when Ikeda turned off AFC Enhance during practices, it was noted that it felt strange.

There were also no complaints from the musicians or the maestro, who were very strict about sound quality—an endorsement in and of itself.

“We made full use of Dante during the show, transmitting data from all 52 microphones through the Dante-enabled Yamaha digital mixers and the AFC engine and out to the amplifiers,” Ikeda said. “This performance would have been virtually impossible without Dante.”

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ORLANDO AIRPORT’S WINDOWS ON ORLANDO DELIVERS AN IMMERSIVE AUDIO AND VIDEO EXPERIENCE

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the visuals on the WOO feature, which creates an immersive and memorable experience for passengers.

“The unique glass mount product with a commercial high-quality manufacture legacy made this a simple choice. The SD-1G has been very reliable and is used in a 24/7 operating airport,” said Neil Hahn, vice president of Hahn Integrated Systems and the owner’s authorized representative on the project. “This is a unique application because the screens all have multichannel audio feeding these drivers that are attached to the glass panels to protect the features from the passengers. They image very well because of the multichannel feeds.”

“The EME system is very complicated, with a multi-million-dollar content distribution system.

It’s driven with QSC equipment and some Meyer Sound speakers for the moment vault feature due to size constraints.

My favorite aspect of the project is that I insisted on audio being part of these features during design and the impact it has with the amazing screens and content the airport commissioned. The client was so impressed with the environment it created.

Overall, the SoundTube SolidDrive audio solution has been a crucial component in delivering the client’s vision for the Experiential Media Environment at the Orlando International Airport’s new South Terminal Complex.”

Photos courtesy Neil Hahn, Hahn Integration

The new South Terminal Complex at Orlando International Airport features an innovative experiential media environment (EME) that creates an unforgettable travel experience for passengers. The Windows on Orlando (WOO) video feature is a key component of the EME. The Windows on Orlando comprises three adjacent panoramic screens that form a 100-feetlong, 32-feet-tall display. The triptych video wall is 31 feet by 33 feet with mirror reveals built into the wall, creating a huge digital window.

The moving images displayed on the WOO cross the different windowpanes to unveil surprising and compelling visuals of Orlando for arriving passengers, creating anticipation and expectation. For departing passengers, it serves as a lasting impression and memory of their Orlando experience.

The WOO aims to uniquely showcase Orlando, displaying local content such as space launches, underwater adventures, and the story of Florida’s transformation from springs and ranchlands to the dawn of theme parks and spaceports.

The audio system for the WOO feature was crucial in providing passengers with an immersive and high-quality experience. The key audio requirements and goals included providing ambient, multichannel audio to complement the visuals on the WOO video screens, ensuring high-quality audio distribution and reproduction to match the visual experience, and integrating the audio system seamlessly into the glass panel architecture of the WOO feature.

To meet these requirements, the project team selected SoundTube’s SolidDrive SD-1G speakers for the WOO feature. The factors that influenced this decision included that the SD-1G speakers could be discreetly mounted directly onto the glass panels of the WOO, minimizing the visual footprint. In addition, the SD-1G speakers provided a point source audio approach, allowing for precise multichannel audio placement to match the video content. Lastly, SoundTube’s reputation for high-quality, commercial-grade audio products gave the team confidence in the reliability and performance of the speakers.

The SoundTube SD-1G speakers are reliable and well-suited for the airport’s 24/7 operation.

The client has praised the audio integration with

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SCHOOL SYSTEM GETS A MAJOR INTERCOM UPGRADE

Photo courtesy Bogen

When Fairchild Communications was called in to replace two of Crawfordsville Community Schools’ elementary school intercom systems, Fairchild knew that Bogen’s Nyquist E7000 solution would be the perfect fit. After considering a wide range of options, the Crawfordsville Community Schools Corporation’s assistant superintendent and technology director determined that Nyquist offered both the operational reliability and technological capabilities to keep CCSC’s facilities secure and informed.

Juggling several ongoing construction projects and operating under financial constraints, the Crawfordsville Community Schools Corporation ultimately elected to install Nyquist in two— and then four—of the six public schools in the Crawfordsville Community district. Bogen’s Nyquist delivered a cost-effective way to update the schools’ respective paging and intercom systems with a robust, reliable platform that would serve the schools’ administrative staff, teaching faculty, student population, and guests at school facilities.

Some of the key benefits included upgrading an outdated announcement system, finding a budget-friendly and robust solution, and installing a reliable system that will stand the test of time.

Over a three-day period, Hoover and Nicholson elementary schools had their old systems’ central

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equipment completely removed, and the Bogen Nyquist E7000 solution installed. With only one day of full downtime, things were up and running again quickly. “It was fairly effortless,” Doug Lengerich, CCSC’s technology director shared. “The installer knew what he was doing, and it went smoothly.”

In addition to the simple installation, the school’s administrative staff found that training on the Nyquist platform was quick and efficient. “Normally you can see the tension in people’s faces when they’re getting ready to be trained, and rather quickly they were able to see that the training, much like the installation, would be no problem at all,” Matthew Ranft, director of Sales and Marketing at Fairchild Communications recalled.

The Crawfordsville Community School Corporation was so pleased with the results that they chose to install Nyquist in Crawfordsville High School the following summer. The high school installation was part of a larger, month-long renovation project updating the school’s facilities to serve the nearly 700 high school students in the Crawfordsville Community district.

Nyquist helped to streamline all three schools’ intercom and paging systems, while putting in place a solution designed for both long-term

reliability and ease of use. “The school appreciates that with their permission we can remotely access their systems for diagnostics and programming,” Ranft shared. “One of the main features the school principals and administrators were excited about was the simple way to adjust the bell schedule based on the school schedule, to choose different bell schedules, or even to have them preprogrammed.”

Beyond bell schedules and the day-to-day needs of Crawfordsville Community Schools, Nyquist was able to improve student safety measures. “One of the things that we were able to do that wasn’t originally planned was to provide inputs to some of the existing large group area sound systems, for example, a gymnasium, so that emergency calls or tones could be heard even during loud events, adding yet another level of safety for our students and faculty,” Ranft shares.

In the fall of 2020, the district used remote learning as an opportunity to install Nyquist in its third and final elementary school, Hose Elementary. Having no previous history of buying Bogen systems, CCSC is now planning to install the Nyquist E7000 platform across all the primary, intermediate, and secondary schools in the Crawfordsville Community district.

“Bogen was a perfect fit for Crawfordsville, with great enhancements to our technology, minimal disruption to the schools, and the ability to use most of their existing infrastructure,” Ranft explained.

Bogen has been Fairchild Communications’ product partner for twenty years. “We’ve enjoyed a good, close partnership over the years where we’ve had input on product development,” Ranft said. “We have direct connections with engineering and sales, and really see it as a true partnership—not just a dealer arrangement.”

Fairchild values Bogen products for their durability, knowing that by the time Bogen brings a new product to market, it has been thoroughly vetted. Fairchild is also excited about the Nyquist E7000 solution’s regular cadence of new software releases; the system is constantly being upgraded with new features and capabilities. “Bogen has given us something that we can win with,” Ranft shared. “Bogen’s E7000 is a very forward-looking product path, but also a very graceful way to integrate legacy systems. There’s a bridge from the past to the future.”

Nowhere is California’s beauty more evident than in one of its 280 state parks—from massive redwood forests and poppy fields in bloom to pristine mountain habitats full of diverse wildlife.

Beyond sheer beauty, nature in its many forms offers an inimitable learning environment.

Students who venture to state parks can observe and interact with the natural world around them—an experience that’s hard to replicate in the classroom.

However, not every student can visit these wonders. To bring California’s vast natural treasures to every pupil, California State Parks established the Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students (PORTS) program. The PORTS Program offers free live and on-demand presentations, allowing students to explore the state’s outdoors—virtually.

PORTS immerses students in experiences like dynamic videos of kayak rides around Point Lobos, and interactive, field trip-style explorations of Hearst Castle. The program brings the magic of nature and history to classrooms across the state in more than 5,000 virtual learning presentations a year.

For PORTS to succeed, the program’s 60 park staff working from 55 California state parks must be able to communicate clearly with everyone listening, which can include up to 10,000 students in one hour. Students must be able to hear and engage with these experts who are streaming from unique environments like windy mountaintops and rivers with rapids. The PORTS Program needed audio and video tools that could contend with these challenges and make outdoor learning a reality.

“Our goal is to bring the state’s park resources to more students, especially those who might not otherwise be able to experience them. Having high-quality audio and video is critical to bringing the historical, cultural, and natural legacy of California to life virtually,” Brad Krey, California State Parks’ Interpretation and Education program manager said.

To meet these challenges, PORTS selected Jabra’s line of PanaCast video conferencing cameras, which provide premium video collaboration experiences—whether you’re outdoors or in a classroom. Equipped with a range of AI-driven intelligent features like Intelligent Zoom for presenters on the move,

Photo courtesy Jabra

CONFERENCING TECH BRINGS NATURE TO THE CLASSROOM

and a unique 180-degree field of view, the Jabra PanaCast series provides a natural, engaging, and inclusive experience for all participants tuning in.

BlueParrott headsets are engineered for superior calls in high-noise environments.

Designed for comfort and flexibility, the headsets are lightweight and discreet, and provide numerous wearing styles—even under a park ranger’s hat. And with an IP54-rating for protection against dust and moisture, they are built to last.

“We’re constantly evolving and trying to have more and more high-production quality experiences for students. That’s what they get with gaming and social media today, and that’s what they’re expecting from virtual learning as well. Jabra tools are helping us achieve this,” Krey said.

For PORTScasts featuring panoramas like sweeping forests and wide museum rooms, the Jabra PanaCast 50 intelligent video bar provided a unique 180-degree field of view in panoramic 4K, allowing presenters to capture expansive views with no distortion. PanaCast 50’s intelligent features helped everyone feel like they’re in the action together, even when they’re

spread in classrooms around the state. For one PORTScast, the program brought PanaCast 50 a quarter mile into the redwoods for a Women’s History Month live broadcast on the “Heroines of the Redwoods”—providing panoramic views and bringing viewers an immersive learning experience.

Jabra PanaCast 20 provided a lightweight and portable, yet powerful tool for park staff to leverage for PORTScasts. With Intelligent Zoom to automatically keep the presenter in frame, as well as high-quality video and simple USB-C connection to get up and running from anywhere in seconds, PanaCast 20 helped to power strong PORTS visual storytelling on the go. Additionally, utilizing BlueParrott headsets like the C400-XT in the noisiest environments, park staff were able to limit background distractions and create a more engaging audio stream for students tuning in from afar.

“The right technology has been and will continue to be a key enabler for us in carrying out our mission,” Krey said. “We look forward to the future of the PORTS Program and will continue to bring California’s state parks to more students across the state—and even across the country—in new, immersive ways.”

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A CRYSTAL-CLEAR CHOICE FOR SAFETY AND PRODUCTIVITY

Photos courtesy Q-SYS

Cardinal Glass, one of the world’s largest glass manufacturers, recognizes the importance of clear and efficient communication to ensure safety, productivity, and quality across their 31 plants nationwide. With a significant expansion at their plant in Tomah, Wisconsin, they are taking proactive measures to enhance the PA system. This system serves multiple purposes, including as a commercial doorbell, an emergency alert and notification system, and a warehouse speaker system for background music (BGM). To achieve this improvement, they equipped their 1-million-square-foot building with Q-SYS for audio and control.

This investment in Q-SYS also extends to the company’s extensive training facility, illustrating Cardinal Glass’s commitment to effective communication across their entire operation.

According to Bryan Werner, director of Business Development and partner at AMS, “Life safety is of utmost importance for Cardinal Glass. Doorbell chimes, internal paging, and emergency alerts, such as those for tornadoes or active shooter situations, are set up through the Central Alerting System (CAS). These events are triggered through Q-SYS Touch Screen Controllers, broadcasting prerecorded messages to 27 zones throughout the building. Additionally, Cardinal Glass wanted to improve the work experience with distributed background music (BGM). They are a company that understands the value of the technology, which is why our team at

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AMS decided to go with Q-SYS integration.”

AMS implemented a comprehensive Q-SYS solution to address Cardinal Glass’s safety and audio needs. The solution included redundant QSYS Core 110fs for centralized control, 22 Q-SYS Touch Screens with customized UCIs for simplified user control, and 16 Intermediate Distribution Frame (IDF) locations with Q-SYS CX-Q Series Network Amplifiers to deliver power to the 400 pre-existing speakers spread across the facility. Manufacturing plants are often noisy with the constant sound of machinery and equipment operations. This can lead to increased stress levels and decreased concentration.

The Continuous Ambient Compensator, native to Q-SYS OS, analyzes the ambient noise levels and automatically adjusts the volume of the plant’s sound system to compensate for the background noise. This helps to reduce the overall audio levels in the plant, making it easier for employees to communicate, concentrate, and perform tasks effectively.

The main training room in the new building serves as a vital hub for fostering effective communication and collaboration among team members. This versatile space can accommodate up to 135 individuals, providing an ideal setting for employee training and onboarding sessions.

Equipped with a state-of-the-art 220-inch LED wall for dynamic presentations and video displays, the training room offers a cuttingedge environment for sharing information and

knowledge. The adjacent break room has been designated as an overflow room and is equipped with an 85-inch LED display for additional viewing capabilities. Both the main training room and the overflow break room are furnished with Q-SYS AcousticDesign Series 8-inch Ceiling Speakers powered by a 4-Channel Q-SYS CX-Q Series Network Amplifier. The entire audio and video system is controlled and processed through a Q-SYS Core 110f and two Q-SYS TSC-101-G3 network touchscreens, ensuring smooth operation and an optimal user experience.

“AMS has been using Q-SYS for nearly a decade, and has built a self-sustaining business model around it,” Werner said. “Q-SYS is our go-to product for background music, paging, sound masking, and advanced controls for clients. The ease of customization and integration with other systems, such as access control and video conferencing platforms, make Q-SYS a preferred choice.”

Cardinal Glass was thrilled with how Q-SYS performed and its impressive capabilities. Werner said, “Q-SYS has been critical in allowing our team to upgrade Cardinal Glass’s existing systems zone by zone and room by room without taking existing systems offline. It has allowed us to scale by adding network amplifiers as the client needed them. We have also been able to add additional touch screens, ambient noise compensation microphones, and features as the customer’s needs change and grow.”

Photo courtesy KV2

ADVANCED LOUDSPEAKERS TAKE CENTER STAGE The Bregenz Festival (Bregenzer Festspiele) has been an icon on the European cultural landscape for over 75 years. The jewel in the Austrian festival’s crown is undoubtedly the Seebühne, set in the spectacular waters of Lake Constance. The largest floating stage in the world, the Seebühne, with its 6,658-seat open-air amphitheater, is the star venue for the festival’s musical and operatic productions. This year’s production was Puccini’s Madame Butterfly, staged on a vast, 23-by-33m, 300-ton set designed to represent a giant leaf of delicately creased Japanese paper.

The technical challenges involved in a production of this nature are enormous, with sound being amongst the most critical. This year, KV2 systems made up the core of the highly complex main system serving the Seebühne and its auditorium.

“We have been using a point-source-based system for many years now, as we found it was the most efficient way to handle the various constraints of working on an outdoor production with a live orchestra and a complex set,” Clemens Wannemacher, head of sound for the festival said, “Martin Lukesch, head of sound at the Volksoper Opera in Vienna mentioned that I should listen to KV2, so we organized a shoot-out amongst several brands. That’s when I heard KV2’s ESR212 and ESR215 for the first time. As luck would have it, Alwin Bösch, who has been working with Bregenz for over 28 years and is now my deputy head of sound, was also at the shootout. We were both impressed by what we heard that day.”

Wannemacher continued, “When I started with Bregenz in 2020 and was looking into upgrading our loudspeaker setup, both Alwin and I immediately settled on the ESR212. We loved the sound, even more than the ESR215, and we also loved the fact that you can rotate the horn in the 212. That comes in very handy as we have to hide the speakers in the set, and by rotating the horn we can use it horizontally which makes it very versatile.”

The loudspeaker setup is highly complex, with over 40 loudspeakers from four different brands hidden in the stage alone, including VHD1.21 and VHD2.16subs from KV2 and three horizontally orientated ESR212s. “The stage has ‘holes’ with small platforms behind them that house the loudspeakers,” Wannemacher described.

“The holes are covered with a metal grid that is (partially) covered with plaster and then painted.

There are no dedicated monitor-loudspeakers for the singers. They are effectively standing in front of the PA, so they pretty much hear what the audience hears.”

As for the rest of the PA system—it is equally complex, with loudspeakers mounted on a series of poles surrounding the listening zone. Four large poles next to the set (two per side) house four levels of loudspeakers including two KV2 ESR212s in the middle which are supplemented by Kling & Freitag Spectra 212s top and bottom. Smaller poles surround the rest of the listening area, equipped with three levels of K&F Spectra 212 and CA1001CX and two levels of Adamson P12.

There are also several K&F LINUS loudspeakers

placed beneath the seats in the middle of the audience zone, as well as some JBL subs.

“There are a few reasons why we ended up with this loudspeaker mosaic,” Wannemacher explained. “Firstly, we try to use speakers that are fit for the different tasks we require. For example, the KV2ESR212s on the poles and inside the set are primarily used for amplification of the orchestra. Here, we need a powerful system with broad coverage so we can reach a large audience area from the L/C/R positions. However, for the voices, we prefer loudspeakers with much narrower coverage to target specific areas of the audience where we can control the delay.”

To add a little more spice to the mix, since 2006, the orchestra has been housed in the nearby Festspiel hall rather than on an outdoor stage. This adds a further layer of complexity but gives Wannemacher and his team much more scope when it comes to creating an immersive experience for the audience.

“We’ve implemented a 3D sound system using different speakers at different heights, including under-seat speakers for middle stalls. I wanted to mirror this to capture room sound, so we set up microphones in a three-level arrangement to feed the three levels of loudspeakers. When combined with our 3D electronic acoustic room system, we achieve a very realistic and pleasantsounding room that benefits the entire audience.

Thanks to an intricate setup of both microphones and loudspeakers, we’ve managed to create an immersive experience for the audience, even in an outdoor environment.”

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SUBMARINE DISCOVERS THE “SOUND OF THE EARTH”

Photos courtesy Clear-Com

Germany-based wireless cameras and comms specialist HDwireless chose Clear-Com digital wireless solutions supplied by Audio-Technica to power their comms during a submarine expedition to the bottom of the deepest lake in Austria, part of a research project dubbed “Tiefenrausch” which was meant to discover “the sound of the Earth.”

The expedition spanned five 12-hour days, and reliable communication technology was essential, in part because the crew had to obtain approval from the Austrian military to sail out to the dive site each day. Ultimately, HDwireless decided to use Clear-Com’s FreeSpeak Edge Wireless System due to its wide range of possible applications and perfect audio quality, according to Patrick Nußbaum, managing director at HDwireless. “We were not only responsible for the communication within the submarine and to

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the crew ashore, but we also used the FreeSpeak Edge system for the entire broadcast sound of the television transmission,” Nußbaum explained.

Once at the dive site, “at a depth of nearly 200m, you have to be really safe,” Nußbaum continued. “If you’re out there and have no way to communicate with the submarine, the OB van, or the crew on land, you have a real problem. It’s a big security factor.”

The submarine was manned by four people: a pilot, a co-pilot, a presenter for the TV show, and a guest—all of whom were equipped with FreeSpeak Edge beltpacks. The intent of the submarine’s voyage was to retrieve a hydrophone previously sunk to the bottom of the lake, which, along with other recording devices, captured the sounds made by the Earth.

All crew members on the submarine could communicate with each other and send their feeds to the TV production’s OB van on land, which was equipped with an Eclipse HX Digital Matrix System and V-Series Iris Keypanels.

The crew on the land and pontoon boat were also able to communicate via the Agent-IC mobile app.

In fact, the crew didn’t use any additional audio equipment; the production relied solely on Clear-Com systems. “That was one big reason we chose Clear-Com,” Nußbaum said. “The products simply work. And we would do this all again using that equipment.”

HDwireless is the go-to specialist when it comes to wireless comms and camera solutions in Europe, and they heavily favor Clear-Com equipment. Other applications using Clear-Com include TV shows; corporate events; music productions; and large sports events like Formula 1 and the 24-hour motorsports race at the Nürburgring, the biggest racetrack in Germany.

Nußbaum said he will always use Clear-Com products not only because they work well, but because of the company’s excellent customer support. “When you’re planning challenging projects like this, when there are sudden changes or problems—or when you need additional equipment at very short notice—outstanding support is crucial. Audio-Technica as the German distributor, as well as the colleagues at Clear-Com in Europe and the USA, provide us with this.”

The Moreno Valley Unified School District in Riverside County, California recently opened its Cyber Innovation Center at Canyon Springs High School. Here, students gain knowledge and skills in computer network maintenance and cybersecurity, earning six college credits and preparing to pass CompTIA A+ and Networking+ certification tests—the gold standard for IT skills competency. Integral to the teaching and esports activities at the Cyber Innovation Center is an extensive audiovisual system powered by Extron switching, distribution, control, and audio, with NAV Pro AV over IP at the center of AV signal distribution throughout the facility.

The Esports Computer Lab is equipped with 36 high-performance gaming computer workstations with 240fps displays, three 84-inch flat panel displays, eight ceiling-mounted FF 120T Flat Field speakers, and a ceilingmounted SF 10C SUB SoundField subwoofer.

A six-input SW HD 4K PLUS HDMI switcher preselects HDMI content from among the six workstations in each of six rows, feeding the selected HDMI via a NAV encoder to the NAV Pro AV-over-IP network. The instructor can easily select which content is shown on the large displays throughout the Cyber Innovation Center using an Apple iPad running the Extron Control app. Gaming video and audio content is sent to a Tricaster, which is used to store gaming action for playback, mix the gaming action with content from other sources, and stream content to the Internet during competitions.

Four DTP wallplate transmitters located around the Esports Lab accept HDMI and analog audio from mobile 86-inch interactive touchscreen teaching stations. The wallplates connect to the NAV Pro AV-over-IP network via NAV E 101 DTP encoders, allowing content from the touchscreens to be shown on other displays around the facility. A ShareLink Pro wireless hub connects to the NAV Pro AV-over-IP network via a NAV encoder, allowing mobile devices to provide content wirelessly via Wi-Fi. Audio is an important part of the gaming experience. The players hear the gaming action through headphones, and spectators listen to that same action, plus shoutcaster commentary, with sound coming through the Esports Lab’s eight full-range ceiling speakers and powerful inceiling subwoofer. The sound is mixed, tailored

Photo courtesy Extron

IMPROVED SIGNAL DISTRIBUTION FOR A CYBER INNOVATION CENTER

for room acoustics, and distributed by a DMP 64 Plus audio DSP processor, which drives the ceiling speakers through an XPA 4-channel amplifier with 100W per channel. A separate 800W NetPA amplifier with integrated DSP drives the subwoofer. Audio is delivered to the DSP processor and the subwoofer amplifier digitally via the AES67-compatible NAV Pro AVover-IP network.

The Cyber Classroom has 48 computer workstations, four 84-inch flat-panel displays, and eight SF 26PT SoundField pendant speakers.

The classroom also has mentoring conference rooms, each with a 75-inch flat-panel display for collaboration. There are more computer workstations and displays in the Cyber Classroom, so there are more HDMI switchers and more NAV Pro AV-over-IP endpoints. This is where NAV proves its versatility, allowing AV installations to grow by simply adding encoders and scaling decoders. Users control the AV system from a TouchLink GUI on an iPad, just as in the Esports Lab. The same DSP-equipped sound system that drives the Flat Field speakers in the Esports Lab drives the pendant speakers in the Cyber Classroom, via a separate XPA Ultra amplifier. Similar to the Esports Lab, the Cyber Classroom has DTP wallplates where mobile interactive touchscreen teaching stations can plug into the NAV Pro AV-over-IP network to share lesson content to other screens.

The Cyber Innovation Lab includes 24 computer workstations on two tables. The primary display in this room is the video wall

comprising a 5-by-3 matrix of 49-inch flat-panel displays. The AV system in the Cyber Innovation Lab follows the same design as the other rooms: HDMI switches pre-selecting HDMI content from each group of six workstations feeding into the NAV Pro AV-over-IP network. That network supports the video wall with NAV WindoWall technology, feeding the 15 flat panel displays through 15 NAV scaling decoders. Four pendant speakers hang from the ceiling and are driven by their own separate amplifier located in the Intermediate Distribution Frame (IDF) equipment room. There are three DTP wallplates where mobile interactive touchscreen teaching displays can plug into the NAV Pro AV-over-IP network.

As the hub of the Cyber Academic Pathway program, the Cyber Innovation Center serves as an education facility; an esports and National Youth Defense competition venue; and a cybersecurity training resource for the community’s small businesses, veterans, and others.

Donna Woods, MSc.Ed, Career Technical Education Cyber Pathway instructor, as well as teachers Ana Velazquez and Mary Baez pointed out that, “Successes are not limited to the top academic students. We have cyber career pathway students from special-ed and English-as-a-second-language backgrounds. It’s amazing when you see them working together.

Every child feels welcome and participates in the Cyber Education Center’s educational offerings, regardless of their academic knowledge or wherewithal.”

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A HARD-HITTING ROBOTIC LINE ARRAY SYSTEM The World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) brand is a global behemoth, beloved by loyal fans in over 1 billion households throughout 180 countries. Its events are among the most electrifying experiences in live entertainment, taking over the world’s biggest and best-known sporting venues and packing them to capacity on a weekly basis.

On occasion, WWE brings private events home to its new Stamford, Connecticut-based corporate headquarters, where the company seeks to deliver the energy and excitement of its live events to select invitees in a more intimate setting—its stunning, sunlit atrium.

“WWE takes pride in being at the leading edge of media and production technology, redefining the standards of excellence in content creation, broadcast and, of course, live entertainment,” Joseph Solari, vice president of Studio Operations, WWE said. “We program events like company town halls and parties in our lobby space, which presents some major acoustic challenges.”

That’s why the world leader in sports entertainment tagged in the team at OSA International to design and install a PK Sound T10 robotic line array system for the unique space.

The atrium is a long, tall, narrow rectangular space with the building’s massive glass façade on the west side and three stories of interior, open balconies on the east, each with a high-resolution LED video screen as its fascia and a fourth lining the top of the space. The central LED wall on the south end spans four stories from the base of the main floor and commands attention from any vantage point.

Content for the audiovisual system is fed through a range of sources, including The Studios at WWE—a new 30,040-square-foot, state-ofthe-art production facility equipped with five studios and highlighted by a cutting-edge virtual production stage.

A main array of eight PK Sound T10 robotic line source modules is installed above the center of the south video wall via a custom rigging solution by Atlanta Rigging Systems, with a column of three T218 intelligent

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subwoofers flown behind it for ample lowfrequency reproduction.

“WWE sets the standard for content creation and delivery, and we knew a PK Sound robotic line array system could overcome the atrium’s challenging acoustic environment and match the excitement and impact of the LED video content,” Jim Risgin, vice president of Design and Engineering, OSA International explained.

“Designed with support from PK Sound and ACT Entertainment, our solution gives them the flexibility to optimize acoustic coverage remotely and in real-time. The result: the best possible audio in any application, whether it’s a short spoken-word address for a few inside teams or a packed, high-energy party with WWE Superstars on stage and music covering multiple floors.”

Owing to its patented robotic rigging system, the T10 delivers ample vertical coverage with 0.1-degree of precision for the long space without the need for a rear pullback point.

From there, variable horizontal coverage is configured on each module in the array from 60 to 120 degrees symmetrically or asymmetrically—and easily reconfigured remotely and in real-time via PK .dynamics control software. For events with smaller crowds, coverage can be symmetrically focused only on the ground floor, whereas for busier events with spectators on the upper floors, sound can be directed asymmetrically to include the crowds on the balconies while minimizing spillage onto the reflective LED fascias.

With PK’s patented multi-axis robotics, the system’s acoustic coverage is precisely tailored to the atrium’s architecture to maximize clarity and consistency, augmenting its expansive LED video system to deliver a guest experience befitting WWE’s stellar reputation.

“The PK Sound solution devised by OSA is configured to keep acoustic energy off reflective surfaces and focused only where people are gathered, and the results are truly phenomenal,” Solari added. “Our first townhall with the new system was like night and day compared to our previous events, with clean, intelligible, and impactful sound reproduction across the board.”

Photos courtesy PK Sound

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INFOCOMM 2024 BEST OF SHOW AWARD WINNERS Congratulations to the InfoComm 2024 Best of Show winners for AV Technology, Digital Signage, and our sister publication, Tech & Learning.

Every year, Future Publications contracts with AV/IT industry experts to evaluate products submitted by manufacturers exhibiting at InfoComm for Best of Show.

Our judges are experts in the categories of products we have chosen for them to evaluate and always remain anonymous to the manufacturers. They are your peers, AV/IT managers, directors, engineers, industry consultants and integrators.

Check out the comments from the judges.

WINNERS 32

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WINNERS

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ADTECHNO Dante AV Ultra Encoder and Decoder DAV-02

ADTECHNO’s Dante AV Ultra Encoder (DAV-02HT) and Decoder (DAV-02HR) feature advanced source-switching capabilities. These devices deliver visually lossless video and perfectly synced audio with a single network clock, eliminating any lip-sync issues. They support the transmission of 8-channel audio, up to 4Kp60 4:4:4 video, USB, and RS-422 serial commands over a 1GbE network. Users can conveniently manage all signal streams through the widely used Dante Controller software. Both units are designed for optimal heat dissipation without the need for a built-in cooling fan, ensuring silent operation, increased reliability, and reduced maintenance needs. These devices are perfect for enhancing AV performance in high-end conference settings, educational environments, and professional meetings. ad-techno.com

What the Judge had to Say: “I have not seen many products that do Dante video just yet, and this device does it well with simple installation.”

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p

AMX MUSE Automation Controllers

AMX’s MUSE Automation Controllers provide a powerful, secure, and reliable dedicated computing resource to run HARMAN Professional’s MUSE automation platform in any environment where AV systems, software applications, or other devices require control and automation. AMX MUSE Automation Controllers feature a modern embedded processor that’s 10x faster than the processor in AMX NX Controllers, bountiful memory, and rugged, industrial grade eMMC storage. Built on HARMAN’s secure Linux platform, MUSE controllers are designed to surpass the requirements of the most secure installations. They can also simultaneously process a virtually unlimited number of scripts written in JavaScript, Python, or Groovy and natively support LowCode development with Node-RED. amx.com

AMX SVSI N3300 Series Encoders and Decoders

AMX’s SVSI N3300 Series Encoders and Decoders are a fantastic solution for almost any streaming application but is ideal for colleges and universities, casinos, hospitality, and government applications. High-quality 4K60 H.26x and Dante AV-H streaming is perfect for transmitting the highest quality video at lower bandwidth. Hybrid learning applications will especially benefit from the significant cost savings of simultaneous dual-stream encoding and local recording to an external USB 3.0 drive. Dante Controller handles all device routing, naming, and configuration, while Dante Domain Manager provides IT-level management over device organization, user access, multiple subnet coordination, and complete audit logs for every endpoint and user. amx.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The AMX SVSI N3300 Series provides impressive video performance across a network and the ability to record locally to a USB 3.0 drive proves to be a value add for a lot of workflows.

Dual-stream Dante AV-H and H.26x video capabilities set this product apart from the competition.”

What the Judge had to Say: “Speed in small packages with all the right inputs and outputs returns AMX to the elevated tier of control/automation solutions for which they were previously known. AMX has made it so much easier to program using the new Muse controller line, and the new HControl experience builds on the legacy of HiQNet.”

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WINNERS

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Apantac 4K@60 KVM-over-IP Solution on openGear

Apantac’s 4K@60 KVM-over-IP Solution on openGear (OG-KVM-IP-Tx-UHD) is the manufacturer’s latest advancement in KVM technology. The OG-KVM-IP-Tx-UHD is hot pluggable and 10 cards can be installed in a 2 RU openGear frame with dashboard control, network monitoring, and redundant power supplies This solution operates on a distributed architecture, eliminating the need for a central KVM server, and emphasizing convenience and flexibility. When used with Apantac 4K@60 KVM receivers, operators can extend and/or switch HDMI video streams with visually lossless image quality and ultra-low latency of 2ms.

The OG-KVM-IP-Tx-UHD leverages gigabit Ethernet and is designed for both retrofitting existing networks and accommodating new installations, offering interfaces in both fiber and copper. apantac.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Combining low-latency video transport in the KVM system, the solution can maximize existing gigabit networks using copper or fiber connectivity.

Apantac continues to provide the AV industry one of the stronger KVM solutions on the show floor.”

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Arthur Holm DynamicCable Retract

Arthur Holm’s DynamicCableRetract is an innovative motorized retractable cable system designed for seamless integration into modern furniture. This cuttingedge solution combines functionality with elegance, offering a user-friendly experience that enhances any living or working space. For added convenience, the DynamicCableRetract can be controlled remotely, by RS-422 and by the wireless App: AHlink. This feature allows to extend or retract the cable from a distance, making it perfect for meeting room tables where all the AV is remotely controlled. And beyond USB-C, the patented DynamicCableRetract is also available with HDMI cables, catering to a wide range of connectivity needs. arthurholm.com

What the Judge had to Say: “This product is so simple and easy to use that, if you blink, you may not see it, as it blends well into a surface/table.

One touch brings it up and extends it out for quick connection, and when done, that same one touch will retract and hide the cable.”

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Blackmagic Design ATEM Constellation 4K

Blackmagic Design’s ATEM Constellation 4K line of live production switchers includes two powerful models, ATEM 1 M/E Constellation 4K and ATEM 2 M/E Constellation 4K. The 1 M/E includes 10 standards-converted 12G-SDI inputs, six 12G-SDI outputs, DVE, four ATEM Advanced chroma keyers, a 16 way multiview, media players, talkback, and USB webcam output. The larger 2 M/E has 20 standards-converted 12G-SDI inputs, 12x 12G-SDI aux outputs, two DVEs, eight ATEM Advanced chroma keyers, two multiviews, and a SuperSource for a total of six DVEs. The compact design is perfect for portable live production, with the rear of the switcher including connections for 12G-SDI inputs, aux outputs, balanced audio, and Ethernet for control. blackmagicdesign.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The ease of use for Blackmagic Design’s ATEM Constellation 4K line is great. Its features are robust and the front screen is just the right size.

Additionally, the preview before hitting send is nice.”

WINNERS

Auri, powered by

Stumpfl q AV AnyShape

q Ampetronic and

Listen Technologies

Auri, powered by Ampetronic and Listen Technologies, is the first complete installed assistive listening system utilizing Auracast broadcast audio, a new Bluetooth capability that will transform the way audio is delivered in public spaces. In spaces where Auracast is available, people with devices that are Auracast compatible will be able to connect to receive high-quality audio; however, it may take years before Auracastcompatible wearables and devices are widely available and adopted. The complete Auri system, including the transmitter, receiver, neckloop, and signage, is ADA compliant and lets venues and end users adopt Auracast broadcast audio now. Auri is expected to ship later this year. listentech.com

What the Judge had to Say: “This is a great product for assistive listening, and Bluetooth allowing for a connection to the user’s personal device is a great option.”

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Aurora Multimedia ReAX Core Studio AI

Aurora’s Multimedia’s ReAX Core Studio AI is a professional-grade software for creating graphical user interfaces and control logic code. AI will now allow a programmer to enter in the required parameters, and in seconds JavaScript code will appear for use.

This will make programming quicker and easier, and will educate new programmers on how to code for circumstances of varying complexity. The intuitive drag-anddrop interface allows for easy and flexible design, while enabling rapid duplication and reuse of code blocks. Control programs are published to any ReAX capable control system as a web page. Best of all, ReAX Core Studio is available for free—no purchase fee, registration fee, or certification fee. auroramm.com

AV Stumpfl’s AnyShape now offers an ingenious way of ordering a custom-built projection screen, with a great variety of frame shapes—angled and curved—and sizes straight from the factory, with all of our popular projection surface materials available. AnyShape is available in both our traditional and borderless frame systems. If you can visualize it, there‘s a good chance we can build it. avstumpfl.com

What the Judge had to Say: “AV Stumpfl’s AnyShape product line allows creative teams to develop nontraditional projection surfaces that can be used, disassembled, and redeployed multiple times. I really appreciate their willingness to meet the evolving needs of production environments with solutions that provide optimal visual experiences for audiences.”

What the Judge had to Say: “Aurora likes the challenge of innovating and pushing the market forward as an industry leader. The tasteful and strategic implementation of AI into the Core Studio is subtle, but makes a dramatic difference in how you program, allowing AI to generate code strings to feed Core Studio functions.”

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WINNERS

q Avocor E92

p AVer MD120UI AVer’s MD120UI is highly-versatile and explicitly designed for patient monitoring and telemedicine. The MD120UI is equipped with cutting-edge AI technologies that streamline the monitoring process, enabling healthcare providers to remain attentive to patient needs. With its 20X optical zoom and 4K imaging capabilities, coupled with an IR night view function, the MD120UI delivers crystalclear visuals and 24-hour monitoring with no blind spots. The MD120UI features additional helpful functions, including fast focus speed for seamless patient viewing and embedded microphones, which capture all sounds in the patient room and transmit them to the nursing station in real time. averusa.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The price point is reasonable for this medical-grade camera. The features are good since it includes the microphone and ability to be cleaned by IR.”

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Avocor’s E92 is the latest addition to its ultra-wide category of 21:9 displays. The E92 offers a generous, 92-inch canvas to enhance communication and collaboration.

Designed to streamline complex setups, the E92 can be used to replace dual-monitor configurations and offers users a single, cohesive solution for a variety of meeting scenarios. The E92 fully utilizes software platforms that offer a 21:9 resolution such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom, facilitating a fully immersive and engaging experience.

The E92 utilizes Avocor’s UiQ touchenabled interface. From the home screen, participants have access to Montage to wirelessly screen share, enable Rise Vision for digital signage when the screen is not in use, and easily switch between connected inputs. avocor.com

What the Judge had to Say: “This is a nice large, interactive display which can bring in different sources at the same time.”

Vision LTVp AWOL 3500MAX Projector AWOL Vision’s LTV-3500MAX Projector comprises some of the industry’s best components for its laser light engine. The LTV-3500MAX has a Texas Instruments 0.47 Digital Micromirror Device (DMD), a NICHA RGB laser diode light source, and a stateof-the-art Ricoh all-glass lens. Premium components, combined with great picture tuning, have resulted in performance that rivals any major projector manufacturer.

AWOL Vision has always chosen the best components and tried to incorporate the latest technologies, including Tri-Laser light sources, better optics, and features like Dolby Vision and HDR 10+. AWOL Vision projector owners have benefited from the additional features that have been added via over-the air- firmware updates at no cost. awolvision.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The AWOL Vision LTV3500MAX is one of the better looking ultra-shortthrow projectors on the market. I like that they’ve adapted the projector line to also support 21:9, as the short throw can be used in some conferencing environments if display costs are out of reach.”

WINNERS

Audio q AXIS Manager Center

q Barco Encore3

AXIS’ Audio Manager Center is a subscription-based hybrid cloud service that enables complete control of all audio across up to thousands of sites from a centralized location. A single interface enables access to all sites using AXIS Audio Manager Edge, so users can remotely set up, operate, and update audio content wherever and whenever they need. Users can automatically distribute scheduled announcements, background music, ads, and more to speakers in their selected sites and zones. Centralized control prevents unapproved audio content (i.e., unlicensed music), while flexible user permissions enable users to turn over the type and amount of control they choose to regional or on-site personnel. axis.com

Barco’s Encore3 screen management system offers every live event AV professional broader canvas space, expanded system resources by easy linking, and advanced transition between layers during runtime. On top, you get cutting-edge hybrid features and unrivaled flexibility—all boxed into one future-proof solution for peace of mind. So, you’ll be ready for what comes next. With Encore3, we’ve introduced the world’s most versatile screen management system, designed to safeguard your investments through card and controller reusability. And rest assured: This highly flexible platform seamlessly transitions to ever-expanding inputs and outputs with even higher bandwidths in the very near future. barco.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The AXIS Audio Manager Center finally makes it easy to schedule announcements and background music across enterprise networks.

I really appreciate that they’ve decided to make it available in a premium subscription version and a free, standard version with fewer features.”

ClickShare p Barco Bar Pro Barco’s ClickShare Bar Pro is a premium, carbon-neutral, all-in-one video bar that enables engaging, effortless wireless conferencing in medium-sized meeting rooms with any videoconferencing platform.

Thanks to its advanced AV capabilities (dual screen and 4K content sharing) and interactive features (touchback, annotation, and blackboarding), it enables crystal-clear audio, sharp views, and enhanced interactivity for meetings where all participants feel heard and seen. This solution offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing IT managers to easily equip their meeting rooms. Paired with a five-year warranty, the bar overall reduces the total cost of ownership by consolidating all collaboration, audio, and video functionalities into one powerful device. barco.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Nice card frame for video routing with Barco’s Encore3.”

What the Judge had to Say: “This is a nice video bar that works well with the ClickShare; it will share the video and speaker with the source connected.”

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WINNERS

BTB115 q Bedrock Advanced TalkBox

p Barco TP1.2-I Barco’s TP1.2-I is a cutting-edge indoor LED video wall that sets a new standard for visual excellence, seamlessly combining smart engineering, energy efficiency, and ergonomic design. This new introduction complements Barco’s existing TruePix portfolio, and is applicable in a wide range of markets, including control rooms, TV studios, and corporate lobbies. barco.com

What the Judge had to Say: “It’s a video wall, but with the mount they use it allows for ease of removing panels without risking breaking panels around it.”

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Bedrock’s BTB115 Advanced TalkBox is an accurately calibrated acoustic signal source for AV testing. The TalkBox is designed to approximate the radiation pattern of a human talker. Simply place the TalkBox where normally a human talker would be (typically in front of a microphone of a system under test), and it provides acoustic test signals with an accurately controlled level and spectrum. The TalkBox is an essential tool for speech intelligibility testing (STI/STIPA) and makes a wide variety of AV tests much easier to carry out. The internal high-power digital signal processor offers high-precision equalization; the spectrum is controlled within 1dB per 1/3 octave band, fully automatically. bedrock-audio.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The BTB115 Advanced TalkBox is a refined AV testing device that should be a part of every audio system commissioning toolkit. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is a bargain when you consider how efficient it will make your work in the field as you close out projects.”

Kleeo p Biamp Desk Manager Biamp’s Kleeo Desk Manager is the perfect desk booking device for any office using flexible seating. Primarily for organizations with a workforce of 20 or more persons, the Kleeo is designed to reduce stress at all levels of the organization, while boosting productivity. For the user, the experience often starts with the mobile app; the Kleeo will signal to all workers which workspace is available, checked in, or waiting for the reserved worker to sit at the booked desk.

Administrators can utilize the Workplace Admin app to easily set up and administer everything from locations, users, rooms, and desks to analytics designed to help managers make more informed decisions. meetevoko.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Biamp Kleeo Desk Manager addresses many of the areas that cause stress for employees and employers. The interface is easy to use and adaptable to a wide variety of workspaces. The desktop visual cueing is minimalistic, yet highly effective and easy to use.”

WINNERS

q

Bose Professional EdgeMax LP

Bose Professional’s EdgeMax LP combines high-fidelity sound with patented directional technology to break free from the limitations of the in-ceiling loudspeaker category, delivering the coverage patterns, high SPL, and frequency response of larger surfacemount loudspeakers, but with a clean visual aesthetic. The secret to EdgeMax speakers’ room-filling sound lies in their patented PhaseGuide technology, directing sound asymmetrically into the room and creating coverage found in no other loudspeaker. All models offer the same impressive output and tonal performance that set EdgeMax apart, allowing you to mix and match between them. The series is designed for easy installation; our QuickHold springloaded mounting system and magnetically attached grilles are designed to provide quick access to wiring and tap settings. boseprofessional.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Just like their other EdgeMax, this is a great speaker, and the LP has a shallow back plate which makes it easier to install in the ceiling. This feature comes in handy, as ceilings do get tight.”

q

Soundweb p BSS OMNI BSS’ Soundweb OMNI is ideal for a range of installed applications. From large venues like stadiums, arenas, and theme parks; to hospitality projects like hotels, casinos, and cruise ships; to corporate, education, and government—Soundweb OMNI delivers the most comprehensive open-architecture DSP solution. The Soundweb OMNI family combines enterprise-grade processors; flexible I/O expanders; Dante/AES67 networked audio; an onboard scripting engine developed by AMX; and a vast library of processing objects, including media playback, AEC, VoIP, and more. The platform is seamlessly managed through AVX Architect and AVX Control, an all-new software suite, built from the ground up to support the latest installed products from HARMAN Professional. bssaudio.com

Chief Tempo Flat Panel In-Wall Mount System

Chief’s Tempo Flat Panel In-Wall Wall Mount System is an all-in-one configurable wall mounting system designed to improve efficiency by streamlining installation workflow. AV professionals can increase productivity and add money to the bottom line with this new system, especially for mass rollouts. Install on any wall and neatly store AV devices with simple, unparalleled service access. Install two to six small devices behind the display on integrated Lever Lock storage panels.

The Chief Tempo Wall Mount System is thoughtfully designed with feedback from installers for faster deployments. legrandav.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The Chief Tempo Flat Panel In-Wall Mount System is so much easier to use than previous generations of in-wall boxes. I appreciate that the system is designed to be installed during the rough-in stage, and in many cases removes the need for wood blocking reinforcement.”

What the Judge had to Say: “The Soundweb OMNI’s embrace of Harman’s AVX software configuration makes configuring BSS audio systems easier than ever before.

The upgraded audio preamps and flex channels provide value to users without bulking up the price point of the product.”

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WINNERS

q Clear-Com Gen-IC

p Cinegy Multiviewer Cinegy’s Multiviewer is the software solution turning COTS hardware into an infinitely scalable video and audio monitoring, signal analysis, and alarming system. Designed for the world of IP signals and traditional broadcast inputs alike, Cinegy Multiviewer can be used on-premise, on the edge, or in the cloud. From simple automatic layouts to multi-screen custom layouts created with the integrated WYSIWYG layout designer, there are endless ways to visually present live incoming signals. The outputs can be directed to one or multiple screens and/ or IP streams. Monitoring feeds from other apps such as Cinegy Capture or Cinegy Air, additional operational metadata can be displayed, like storage levels, CPU load, bandwidth, or other relevant data, to achieve one-screen-shows-all operation. cinegy.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The software-based Cinegy Multiviewer is fully customizable and easy to deploy. The ability to monitor SDI and NDI, SRT, and SMPTE show the versatility of Cinegy, while the web UI remains approachable and not bogged down like some other experiences.”

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Clear-Com’s Gen-IC Virtual Intercom and SkyPort Virtual System Management Platform combine the flexibility of cloud production with Clear-Com’s renowned reliability, offering a versatile solution for modern broadcasting needs. The system is designed to seamlessly integrate with existing hardware ecosystems or function as a standalone software solution. Its scalability allows users to easily add virtual clients as needed, with the option to integrate with Clear-Com’s hardware infrastructure over LAN, WAN, and the Internet. This flexibility ensures that users can adapt to changing production requirements with ease. ClearCom has addressed the issue of latency in audio communication by developing a unique application that can be deployed on selectable regional targets, ensuring seamless communication. clearcom.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The cloud option of this product allows for easy management of bringing users into the system.”

1 Beyond p Crestron Cameras Newly released 1 Beyond Cameras by Crestron capture everyone in the room clearly. With 1 Beyond PTZ cameras’ broadcast-quality video and optical zoom up to 20x, AV/IT teams can be confident that they are bringing in-room participants closer without losing resolution. The 1 Beyond cameras deliver a premium experience for both in-person and remote participants that matches the level of professionalism required for meeting room discussions, classroom lectures, or auditorium presentations. 1 Beyond cameras work with Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms software to bring a one-touch join experience to your medium and large rooms with clear, crisp, intelligent video. crestron.com

What the Judge had to Say: “One Beyond cameras can now be connected (up to two) without a VC server. Set the zone and when the presenter walks into the zone, the camera tracks them. Time-intensive implementation is going away as more integrator training is brought online.”

WINNERS

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Datapath Aligo TX100 AVoIP 4K Transmitter

Datapath’s Aligo TX100 AVoIP 4K Transmitter is highly scalable, and can ingest a single 4K source, or up to four independent HD sources for IP distribution to any suitable endpoint in its multi-award-winning Aetria solution. Each source also has a dedicated USB connection for independent KVM control. Alongside the visually lossless stream of each connected source, Datapath’s SQX technology provides a simultaneous compressed stream for transmission across low-bandwidth networks, integration with third-party systems, or archiving. Routing up to four independent HD sources over the TX100’s 10GB connection reduces the cabling and switch ports required. datapathltd.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The unit’s small form factor packs a punch, with the ability to transmit four independent HD signals across an ultra-secure 10GB network.

Datapath’s Aligo product line lives up to their name, as they’ve shown their ability to transmit data securely without latency or security issues.”

q Draper StyleLine

p

Digital Projection Radiance LED Reference 0.9 HDR Panel

Digital Projection’s Radiance LED Reference 0.9 HDR Panel produces a benchmark 281 trillion colors and 1200 nits brightness, the highest of any flip chip COB microLED (1200 nits) in the industry. Combined with a high pixel density of 0.9 for superior 4K imaging with a 15000:1 contrast ratio, it sets a new performance standard in the microLED category. Other industry-leading features include a refresh rate of 7680 Hz and an incredibly slim LED cabinet enabled

by COB flip chip technology. The high refresh rate enables seamless interoperability with advanced next-generation video components, and the dramatically thinner panel creates a sleeker profile and room to add coatings to the surface without causing space constraints. digitalprojection.com

Draper’s StyleLine offers the performance of multiple screen types in a single, flexible screen model that comes packed with features and is easy to order. The StyleLine Fixed Screen is available up to 15 feet wide with two bezel trim options—5/8 inches or 3-3/16 inches—and in an edgeless version.

The aluminum frame features a back channel for attaching LED backlighting, and both bezels are covered with Veltex, a black, velvety textile that eliminates light reflections from projector over scan. The StyleLine is light and installer friendly thanks to a quick-connect subframe, hook and loop fabric attachment, and screw-on decorative frame. It also offers up to 1-3/8 inches of horizontal and vertical surface tension adjustability. draperinc.com

What the Judge had to Say: “StyleLine is the cleanestlooking fixed-frame projection screen—perfect for installation in retail, hospitality, museums, and higher education.

The two bezel and edgeless options allow you to customize the look, and with screen sizes up to 15 feet, your options are almost limitless.”

What the Judge had to Say: “Digital Projection’s Radiance LED Reference 0.9 HDR Panel is by far one of the most impressive displays on the show floor this year. One of the distinguishing characteristics of the Radiance LED Reference Series is the impressive contrast ratio, without sacrificing brightness.”

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q Elgato Stream Deck +

p

DTEN Vue Pro Meeting Camera System

DTEN’s Vue Pro Meeting Camera System is a set of side-mount cameras that work in tandem with AI technology to further enhance video coverage, clarity, and convenience for D7X Series All-in-One Video Meeting appliances. Vue Pro 4K cameras can be installed in seconds, and are cleverly designed to capture in-room participants at eye level, providing up to four additional cameras to provide eye-to-eye connections for in-room participants to interact with remote colleagues. Additionally, Vue Pro’s 4K camera lens systems utilize advanced, smart-framing AI to identify and dynamically frame participants with crisp headshots, regardless of distance from the front-ofroom system. dten.com

What the Judge had to Say: “This large room camera system sets up easily and offers 160-degree views without the fisheye. The system captures participants quickly to set up the preferred camera views.”

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Elgato’s Stream Deck + features LCD keys, dials, and a touch strip. It is fully customizable, making it perfect for any workflow. Stream Deck + is your audio mixer, studio controller, production console— anything you want it to be. It allows you to trigger actions; control mics and cameras; and adjust volume, lighting, and more. With Stream Deck +, create limitless pages for different apps and swipe between them on the fly. Set up with ease in the Stream Deck app. Unlock Elgato Wave Link mixing software, and hit the Stream Deck Store for plugins, icon packs, thousands of royaltyfree music tracks, sound effects, and more. With new plugins and updates added regularly, Stream Deck + evolves with your workflow. elgato.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The Stream Deck + might just be the most valuable tool for your AV environment, as it allows you to customize workflows and streamline repeated tasks. The best feature is the four rotary encoders that build on the traditional LCD keys that Elgato is known for.”

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ENCO enCaption Sierra Live Captioning and Translation System

ENCO’s enCaption Sierra Live Captioning and Translation System represents the next generation of the groundbreaking enCaption solution for fast and accurate automated conversion and delivery of captions in AV and broadcast environments. For the first time, enCaption Sierra brings ENCO’s marketleading automated captioning technology together with an SDI captioning encoder to create an all-in-one solution for on-prem environments and containerized deployment options for the cloud. enCaption Sierra’s modern GUI features a simple calendar scheduler and various configuration settings, including custom dictionaries, word models, filtering, and bilingual language options.

ENCO has also sharpened the listenability and responsiveness of the system, improving performance in challenging audio environments. enco.com

What the Judge had to Say: “ENCO has significantly enhanced the capabilities of the enCaption platform and it has never been easier to maintain ADA compliance within AV and broadcast environments.”

WINNERS

Video q Epiphan Pearl Nexus

q EvertzAV BRAVO Studio

Epiphan Video’s Pearl Nexus is the first purpose-built rack-mount capture appliance designed for Pro AV and higher education.

Pearl Nexus seamlessly works with your existing AV infrastructure to deliver a superior, automated video capture experience at scale. Pearl Nexus records and streams up to three channels of 1080p video with a suite of creative controls and cloud management tools. A complete array of video inputs (SDI, HDMI, USB, SRT, and NDI), in addition to professional audio inputs (XLR, USB, and 3.5mm), make Pearl Nexus the most flexible appliance in the industry. The included 1TB SSD drive, CMS integrations, and automated file management ensure all content gets safely recorded and delivered exactly where it needs to go. epiphan.com

EvertzAV’s BRAVO Studio is an allencompassing cloud-based production control suite. Leveraging the robust capabilities of MAGNUM-OS for orchestration, BRAVO Studio equips corporate event producers with the tools to meticulously plan and automate event workflows. This includes the intuitive routing of remote feeds, strategic allocation of production resources, and precise configuration of operator stations, enabling a smooth and effortless transition between different segments of corporate events. The platform’s robust feature set includes the ability to ingest multiple live camera feeds, conduct live video and audio mixing with professional transitions, create sophisticated video overlays for branded content or multi-panel discussions, enable slow-motion replays for impactful presentations, manage clip playout, and produce highlight packages. evertz.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Pearl Nexus is a strong lecture capture solution due to compatibility with AV control systems and CMS platforms. The web-based Edge control interface unlocks the power of the Nexus hardware with automated streaming and recording via schedules and efficient hardware management.”

p EPOS IMPACT 700 The IMPACT 700 by EPOS is an on-ear, wired USB headset which uses industryleading microphone technology to deliver rich, natural sound, no matter the level of background noise.

With a rich feature set powered by secondgeneration EPOS AI, which runs continually within the headset, the IMPACT 700 is designed to isolate and relay incoming and outgoing voices with complete clarity.

IMPACT 700 headsets are carefully crafted with a lightweight design and soft memory foam earpads to deliver unprecedented levels of comfort for extended use.

Additionally, to protect users’ hearing from all-day audio exposure, the IMPACT 700 leverages best-in-class passive noise dampening and EPOS ActiveGard, which works to prevent loud spikes of sound and supports noise-at-work compliance. eposaudio.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The BRAVO Studio is robust and easy to use, and features the best mix of digital and hardware mixing and control for audio. Overall, I’m very impressed.”

What the Judge had to Say: “I’m very impressed with the build quality and comfort of these headphones; you can quite possibly forget you have these on. The battery life is great for all-day use, especially for call center/help desk personnel.”

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Technologies q Hall ComAlert System

p EvertzAV NUCLEUS EvertzAV’s NUCLEUS, an AV-over-IP distribution and control platform for generalpurpose IT-centric deployments, is an AV routing ecosystem developed exclusively for customers looking for a simplified, all-in-one AV distribution, presentation, collaboration, and control solution. The NUCLEUS platform comprises the NUCLEUS Session Manager and UXP AV Gateways, and utilizes IGMP with COTS-managed switches. Any combination of modular and standalone UXP AV Gateways can be interconnected using a COTS switch and then configured, controlled, and managed using the NUCLEUS Session Manager. Other features include ultra-low latency video capabilities; 1GE/2.5GE/10GE copper or fiber network support; high bitrate audio support; and independent video, audio, serial, and USB media routing functionality. evertz.com

What the Judge had to Say: “NUCLEUS may be ahead of its time. The fact that it is modular and flexible to use is a major plus.

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Hall Technologies’ ComAlert System is for use in conference rooms, classrooms, or wherever mics or wireless lavalier mics are needed. The system can be used with Hall Technologies collaboration solutions as well as any system capable of accepting a microphone or USB input. The heart of the system is the ComAlert Microphone Controller, named OSIRIS-DSP1, which is a central audio processing device for extending sound pickup systems in classrooms, conference rooms, et cetera. It has a web interface for controlling the unit and easy setup; it can send alert messages to safety and emergency systems; and it provides mixing and DSP control of all connected microphones. halltechav.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The ComAlert is a safety alert system that provides users a traditional voice lift system with panic button functionality. The magnetic microphone mount and lanyard provide multiple options for wearing the small transmitter without having to worry about the presenter’s clothing. I can see where ComAlert could become a vital component for teachers and instructors.”

p HP Poly Studio G62 The Poly Studio G62 is a modular video conferencing system that brings enterprisegrade video and audio to large and flexible spaces. The Poly Studio G62 seamlessly integrates with various peripherals such as cameras, microphones, and controllers, making it an ideal solution for board rooms, classrooms, and flex spaces.

With sustainability top of mind, the Poly Studio G62 is made up of 80 percent postconsumer recycled plastics and 20 percent recycled metals. And it’s a breeze to set up, with flexible mounting options to suit any space. Poly Studio G62 is certified for Microsoft Teams and is pending certification with Zoom and Tencent. hp.com

What the Judge had to Say: “In today’s ever-changing workplace and classroom environments, the ability to easily scale and move systems as needed. I am looking forward to the Poly Studio G62 being certified for both Teams and Zoom.”

WINNERS

ScalableLine q IHSE Pro Series 5K

TOGGLE q INOGENI ROOMS XT

IHSE’s ScalableLine Pro Series 5K, supporting up to 5K60 video, has optimized firmware that makes it possible to transmit full 4:4:4 color space running over a typical 10G network switch up to 5120x1440 @60Hz. These extenders offer 0.47ms latency for delay-free transmission of video, keyboard, and mouse. Unique features include the ability to control and display up to 16 computer sources on a single display, and manage them via a single keyboard and mouse. In addition, up to four Scalable Pro receivers can be network-bonded to allow up to 64 sources across the four displays.

Other benefits of the ScalableLine Pro includes redundant power, redundant signal ports, and options for audio and RS-232 data transmission. ihse.com

INOGENI’s TOGGLE ROOMS XT switches six peripherals between two hosts. It revolutionizes BYOD/BYOM in large room setups with its 4K60 Pro AV system and unified communication capabilities.

Automatically or manually switch up to five USB devices and one display between a room PC and laptop hosts—all through a single USB-C cable. With the capacity to support one display application for medium to large rooms and flexibility for up to two laptops, TOGGLE ROOMS XT ensures seamless transitions between devices. Its impressive reach of 132 feet (40m) at 4K60 from room PCs and 230 feet (70m) at 1080p, along with a 20-foot diameter for USB laptop connections, underscores its versatility and adaptability for various meeting setups. inogeni.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Connecting multiple digital signage players to one KVM is a user’s/administrator’s dream. The ScalableLine Pro Series 5K is easy to use and easy to scale up depending on where digital signage players are located (in one or many buildings) on the customer’s site.”

p Ikan LBX8-POE Ikan’s LBX8-POE is a cutting-edge and compact panel soft LED light that is designed specifically for studios, conference rooms, classrooms and various spaces with low ceiling clearance. Engineered for easy installation, this light is simultaneously powered (via PoE++) and DMX controlled (via ArtNet or sACN) through a single Ethernet (RJ45) cable. Boasting high CRI LED chips and a soft panel, the LBX8-POE emits a gentle, wraparound light, crafting artifactfree shadows. With a broad 110-degree beam angle, coverage is extensive, and the sturdy yoke, featuring tension knobs, ensures effortless adjustments and secure placement at any angle. The intuitive yellow control knob on the back, paired with the LED readout, simplifies fine-tuning of brightness, color temperature, and DMX channels. ikancorp.com

What the Judge had to Say: “How easy TOGGLE ROOMS XT is to install and set up makes it ideal for teams who don’t have a lot of resources to put into a room AV system.”

What the Judge had to Say: “Combined with the lowprofile nature of the LBX8, the single-wire POE design saves time, money, and reduces the bulky wiring found in traditional studio grids and makes your subjects shine in all the right ways.”

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P2V ULTRA q IPEVO Object Camera

p Insta360 Connect Insta360’s Connect is an all-in-one, dualcamera video bar designed for small- and medium-sized meeting rooms, delivering exceptional audio and video quality that will transform your meetings. Insta360’s first-ever video bar, Connect, seamlessly blends cutting-edge hardware and AI algorithms to provide an immersive and realistic experience for both in-room and remote participants. Connect boasts a dual 4K camera setup, consisting of a wide-angle camera and a telephoto gimbal camera. The two work seamlessly together, capturing 4K group views and individual close-ups for unparalleled visuals. With a 14-microphone array and a cutting-edge 3A audio algorithm, Connect picks up voices from up to 33 feet away with balanced volume, supreme clarity, and a natural, immersive sound. insta360.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Already known for their impressive action cameras, Insta360 delivers a very strong first entry into the video collaboration space with their dual-camera design that also boasts strong audio performance in a very attractive, commercial-grade housing.”

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IPEVO’s P2V ULTRA Object Camera is a compact, portable USB camera that redefines versatility and video quality.

Equipped with a 13-megapixel CMOS sensor and 4K video resolution, it offers outstanding performance, including a Super Macro Focus feature. This feature helps capture fine textures and details as close as 0.39 inches (1cm), and allows you to effortlessly display small objects, artwork, or specific parts with precision and clarity. It also provides highresolution output in UVC format, enabling seamless integration into various system platforms, including computer vision, AI inference, and edge systems. Use the P2V ULTRA as a handheld camera, as a webcam for online meetings and live streaming, or as a document camera. us.ipevo.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Despite the small, handheld form factor, the optical performance and macro performance is impressive and when combined with a single USB-C connectivity, you have an extremely versatile solution that can travel with ease.”

PanaCast 50 p Jabra Video Bar System Jabra’s PanaCast 50 Video Bar System is an Android collaboration bar to facilitate next-level hybrid meeting experiences. It is an integrated solution with speakers, microphones, video camera, and an Androidbased compute unit, as well as a 10.1-inchhigh resolution Touch Controller. It delivers all features and functions of the Jabra PanaCast 50, including the Panoramic-4K 180-degree field of view, Virtual Director, Intelligent Zoom, and Dynamic Composition.

It offers a full suite of flexible, scalable deployment options with a one-touch start/ join controller, offering a collaboration experience on native UC applications like Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms. jabra.com

What the Judge had to Say: “ The strength of the PanaCast 50 VBS is the 10.1-inch LCD controller that eliminates the need to use a computer to host Teams and Zoom meetings. The soundbar is equipped with class-leading optics and an adequate audio support package for small- to mid-sized collaboration spaces.”

WINNERS

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JBL Venue Synthesis Software 3D Acoustic Simulation Software

JBL’s Venue Synthesis Software 3D Acoustic Simulation Software makes it easy for live sound engineers to design and optimize even the most complex JBL sound reinforcement systems for any environment, at any scale, and validate equipment for rigging. It’s ideal for rental companies, venue owners, acoustic consultants, and live sound engineers who design acoustic systems for both mobile and fixed installations.

Venue Synthesis offers both 2D and 3D visualization of real-time, holistic JBL system acoustic coverage and equipment mechanical validation. Create or import 3D venue models, interact with realistic 3D models of JBL Professional loudspeakers and accessories, and predict coverage on any audience or architectural plane for a full system of JBL products. jblpro.com

What the Judge had to Say: “My favorite feature is the ability to create scale models using 2D PDF plans directly in the app, saving so much time when building out your venue and allowing you to focus on configuring systems and not building wire frames.”

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p Jetbuilt Jetbuilt, the dedicated AV project management solution, remains an incredibly agile and adaptable product that is continuing to evolve as the industry itself evolves and new requirements come to light. Jetbuilt’s Client Portal is a dynamic resource for realtime communication and information sharing between integrators and clients to enhance project delivery, increase transparency, and provide an information legacy. Jetbuilt is also the first fully encompassing AV-centric project management platform to offer a comprehensive commercial workflow for designing, presenting, building, and supporting projects in multiple languages— the first phase rollout of which includes German, French, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese simplified, Chinese traditional, and English. jetbuilt.com

JVC Professional Video KY-PZ540 Series PTZ Cameras

The multi-award-winning KY-PZ540 and KYPZ540N PTZ Cameras by JVC Professional are JVC’s first PTZs to incorporate a 40x focal length, and are ideal for large event spaces and instances when the need to zoom in from a distance is essential. The cameras feature JVC’s 4K imager and renowned Variable Scan Mapping technology, which dynamically scans the 4K sensor to produce a seamless and lossless image transition up to 40x in full-resolution HD. The cameras also incorporate the brand’s award-winning features, such as AI-enabled advanced SMART auto-tracking operation and NDIsupported IP-based remote operation capabilities. Additionally, presets for exposure, color, and image are included. jvc.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Not everyone has a 40x camera! JVC Professional has one for a large room, with map scanning to make seamless transitions.”

What the Judge had to Say: “This product is a must for any professional that works on AV or other, related projects. The ability to track everyone’s progress, its ease of use, and its scalability are also pluses for users.”

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WINNERS

Zone p Labgruppen Amplifier Series Labgruppen’s Zone Amplifier Series features comprehensive speaker processing and Ethernet control for installation applications, and comprises models from 600W to 4,800W across four channels.

All Labgruppen Zone Amplifiers are Dante enabled. labgruppen.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Labgruppen might just have developed the perfect amplifier, with massive power and advanced audio processing built into the Zone Amplifier Series. The only thing this amplifier doesn’t have is a large chassis, so it fits any rack with ease.”

Studio 54-inch q LED EDGE Pro LED Studio’s 54-inch EDGE Pro, part of the EDGE Series LED display range, is the latest step in LED Studio’s mission to eradicate “throwaway culture.” The EDGE Series LED displays have been meticulously designed to reduce raw material usage versus standard 16:9 LED cabinets. The world’s largest single die-cast cabinets are designed as a direct replacement for popular LCD video wall panels, offering increased sustainability with up to 30 percent energy savings. LED Studio’s proprietary V1 Architecture cabinet infrastructure allows for pixel technologies to evolve at the end of the product life cycle.

During upgrades, only the modules of the display require replacement, reducing waste, aiding project forecasts, and maximizing ROI. theledstudio.co.uk

What the Judge had to Say: “I have to applaud LED Studio’s effort to mitigate a ‘throwaway culture’ by designing a cabinet form factor that has sustainability built-in.”

p LG Business Cloud LG’s Business Cloud centralizes the brand’s leading scalable SaaS solutions in a single web-based platform to help technology integrators, property owners, and IT managers monitor and manage their digital signage networks, distribute content, and customize experiences including unique hospitality welcome screens, tiered channel offerings, and interactive services. It’s a multi-service SaaS cloud platform that provides integrators and business owners simple access to the powerful capabilities of LG ConnectedCare, LG Pro:Centric Cloud, LG Pro:Centric Stay, and LG SuperSign Cloud. LG Business Cloud also includes the brand-new LG DOOH Ads platform, optimizing services for display owners and advertisers to maximize advertising’s impact and value. lgbusinesscloud.com

What the Judge had to Say: “In my opinion, this is a long-overdue and good update to the LG software suite. Kudos.”

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WINNERS

q

Lightware Taurus TPN

Lightware’s Taurus TPN expands USB capabilities into network environments.

Taurus TPN is a robust, reliable, and userfriendly UC-over-IP solution designed for medium to large conference rooms. At the heart of the Taurus TPN are the Taurus UCXTPN and HDMI-TPN devices, both powered

by SDVoE technology. These devices enable the creation of dynamic UC-over-IP matrices, ensuring seamless integration and flexibility. Supporting up to 4K60 4:4:4 video resolution and full bandwidth USB 2.0 transmission over 10G Ethernet networks, the Taurus TPN ensures high-quality audio, video, and data distribution with 100W charging. Its seamless handling of HDMI 2.0 signals sets new standards in media delivery, while advanced USB extension technologies facilitate independent device-to-host pairing. lightware.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The Lightware Taurus TPN has impressive signal routing and seamless switching performance and the ability to support multiple USB cameras, adding significant value in today’s collaboration environments where UC software can select the best angle to capture presenters.”

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p

Lumens VC-TR60A Voice Tracking Camera

Lumens’ VC-TR60A Voice Tracking Camera is the world’s first professional voice-tracking and motion-tracking PTZ camera. It is also the first cost-effective dual-camera unit which offers both dual video and picture-in-picture output. In all modes, VC-TR60A offers fully autonomous operation, with no need for external processing, dongles, or additional software.

It features a six-microphone beam-forming array, allowing the camera to compute the angle of the voice in relation to the camera and immediately focus on that individual to deliver a perfectly framed shot.

Additionally, VC-TR60A has multiple video outputs (HDMI, USB, and IP) for integration with AV, video conferencing, broadcast, and streaming platforms. mylumens.com

MAXHUB XBoard Interactive Flat Panel Series

MAXHUB’s XBoard Interactive Flat Panel (IFP) Series—available in 55-, 65-, 75-, 86and 92-inch sizes—provides an advanced video conferencing experience and is ideal for daily collaboration sessions. Powered by the MAXHUB MeetingOS, these displays have a built-in three-camera system with advanced AI capabilities (65-inch and above display size) as well as the ability to support active speaker tracking and auto framing. The XBoard IFP Series offers 4K touch displays with a modular PC running Windows IoT. This provides a wealth of interactive capability using a wide range of source content. To ensure superior audio quality, these displays also provide 16 built-in microphone arrays with AI noise suppression. maxhub.com

What the Judge had to Say: “From a collaboration standpoint, this product is top notch. The AI functionality (cameras and mics) really boosts this display’s effectiveness for end users, and should provide them with a top-notch tool to aid them with their needs.”

What the Judge had to Say: “The VC-TR60A boasts strong video quality, but the new voice- and motion-tracking performance is spectacular—aiming to simplify installations and drastically improve the viewer experience. Lumens delivers a stronger performance than many other products.”

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WINNERS

Labs q Owl Meeting Owl 4+

p

Megapixel HELIOS LED Processing Platform

Megapixel’s HELIOS LED Processing Platform has become the go-to choice for LED processing in the Pro AV market. Relied on for projects such as the Eurovision Song Contest 2024, the world’s largest virtual production stage at NANT Studios in Melbourne, and multiple large-scale installations for financial institutions, HELIOS can handle the most complex of LED deployments with ease. Megapixel’s recently released 100G fiber input module enables native SMPTE ST 2110 IPMX ingest capabilities for HELIOS, which is now viewed as critical infrastructure in the corporate AV and fixed installation markets. No other LED processing platform offers the reliability or flexibility that HELIOS offers to the Pro AV market. megapixelvr.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The ability to support unlimited canvas sizes with complete redundancy and an ultra-compact chassis is impressive. The platform is easy to use and supported with regular firmware updates to extend the performance and capabilities of systems already deployed in the field.”

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Owl Labs’ Meeting Owl 4+ is an all-in-one camera, speaker, and mic device that combines 4K Ultra HD, 360-degree video with award-winning software and enterprise features to power engaging hybrid collaboration in any space. The flexible, plug-and-play Meeting Owl 4+ is enterpriseready and takes less than six minutes to set up. Features include upgraded video quality, including a 64-megapixel camera; and wide-range audio, including powerful, 360-degree speakers and smart mics with an 18-foot pickup radius. The Meeting Owl 4+ also pairs with other Owl Labs’ devices to capture 360-degree angles of workplace discussions, so remote meeting participants don’t miss a thing. owllabs.com

What the Judge had to Say: “OWL LABS changed the UC market with the Meeting Owl, and now with the 4+ you have a 64MP 4K Ultra HD sensor that significantly improves the video quality. The new color scheme and ability to power the Owl via POE are also welcome changes for corporate environments.”

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Panasonic Connect PT-RQ7 Series 1-Chip DLP 4K Projector

Panasonic Connect’s PT-RQ7 Series 1-Chip DLP 4K Projector pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in large-scale projection mapping, bringing immersive experiences to life with high-definition 4K visuals and geometric adjustment to enable fast image and video adjustment across curved and elongated surfaces. Equipped with DLP technology, images are reflective, so gate and source lines do not block light, which helps images achieve higher aspect ratio.

The RQ7 Series operates up to 20,000 hours maintenance free, keeping costs and repairs low and run time up, with higher brightness and quiet operations to prevent disruptions for an optimized viewing experience. panasonic.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Paired with the flexible media processor, you gain some advantages, with the ability to automatically configure settings to ensure you’re getting an image that is optimized for the environment.”

WINNERS

q PepperDash Portal

q Realmotion Engine

PepperDash Portal is an AV operations platform that enables you to accurately define audiovisual standards organization wide, efficiently deploy them across the globe, and intelligently manage them in real time. Features include unified device management, process management, compliance monitoring, device configuration, file sharing, and the ability to share data with internal and external project teams. pepperdash.com

Engine can handle both dynamic, interactive elements in real time and linear video content. Integrated with commercial-grade sensors and content creation platforms, it offers unparalleled flexibility, performance, and reliability for projects of all scales. Realmotion Engine can be leveraged in various scenarios, including interactive digital experiences, projection mapping, digital art installations, broadcast, live event venues, and more. A key strength is its ability to integrate sensor data, media outputs, media playback, lighting management, and content management through one scalable software. realmotion.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Real-time feedback on the health of systems across the campus or the world through the secure APIs exceeds other attempts on the market and will help customers save labor costs while improving customer experiences.”

p Q-SYS VisionSuite The Q-SYS VisionSuite represents a shift in intelligent video solutions for educational and collaborative spaces. By integrating cutting-edge AI technology from Seervision with the robust capabilities of Q-SYS, this solution offers a sophisticated and versatile platform that redefines the standards of presentations. At its core, the collaboration between Q-SYS and Seervision establishes an AI-driven presenter tracking system that seamlessly adapts to various presentation styles. Seervision’s AI accelerator, powered by computer vision, enables precise presenter tracking and framing, allowing for dynamic adjustments and customization to suit specific preferences. qsys.com

What the Judge had to Say: “I was very impressed with the performance of the real-time, sensor-driven AV experience. As Realmotion releases a software-only solution, the possibilities are nearly limitless for the next generation of experiential AV systems in 2024.”

What the Judge had to Say: “It’s very easy to use VisionSuite’s UI and control.

The solution works well and solves some key pain points in modern presenter tracking. In general, this product is top tier.”

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Roland V-80HD Direct Streaming Video Switcher

Roland’s V-80HD Direct Streaming Video Switcher is a compact, hybrid event switcher with diverse video connectivity, advanced automation features, and SRT support. The companion Roland Graphics Presenter Software provides an easy-touse solution for creating professional titles and motion graphics for live productions with the V-80HD. Additional Roland video switcher models will receive Roland Graphics Presenter and SRT support with free system updates coming later in 2024. The versatile V-80HD covers comprehensive video production needs. The flexible I/O features eight inputs for 3G SDI, HDMI, and SRT video sources; seven outputs that support 3G SDI, HDMI, USB 3.0, and LAN (RTMP/SRT) connections; plus integrated PTZ control. proav.roland.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The V-80HD Direct Streaming Video Switcher packs massive live production power in an ultracompact platform. Plenty of inputs, outputs, and strong graphics support means you’ll have optionality in your production workflow to accommodate nearly any source and destination.”

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Salamander Designs Acadia Tabletop Display Mount

Salamander Designs’ Acadia Tabletop Display Mount empowers effortless, compact conferencing system deployment in under 40 minutes, providing the ideal solution for smaller, retrofit, and temporary spaces while also accommodating traditional meeting rooms. The Acadia Tabletop mount is the first purpose-built tabletop display mount made for video conferencing with on-board equipment storage. It empowers integrators, businesses, and all stakeholders to deploy a sophisticated video conferencing solution most quickly and efficiently, without the need for any construction whatsoever.

The Acadia Tabletop is compatible with large screens ranging from 43 to 65 inches and features a universal camera mount for flexible positioning above or below the display to optimize the field of view. salamandercommercial.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The Acadia Tabletop Display Mount is a versatile solution for education and corporate environments where change happens rapidly. Its ability to quickly deploy screens without construction allows you to be nimble without sacrificing safety for the equipment or the user.”

SAVI

p TOUCHPAD.One with SAVI Glass

SAVI’s TOUCHPAD.One with SAVI Glass sets a new standard for modern in-room control, featuring a sleek, capacitive touchscreen and visually stunning UI. Perfect for bars, restaurants, suites, event spaces, and conference rooms, TOUCHPAD.One gives end users a whole new way to interact with their SAVI system. SAVI Glass enables dealers to create modern and engaging end-user control experiences. It’s now easier than ever to create specific UIs for a single device, room views, or multiple locations through a new level of simplified customization.

Unlike anything on the market, SAVI Glass requires zero coding and offers a dragand-drop widget grid system, empowering dealers to design sophisticated and stunning in-room control for an unparalleled end-user experience. savicontrols.com

What the Judge had to Say: “SAVI’s TOUCHPAD.One is one of the best-performing touch panels on the show floor. The ability to mount the TOUCHPAD.One multiple ways, and the fact that it uses features such as proximity sensors, gives you the means to elevate the user experience.”

WINNERS

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Shure Microflex Wireless neXt 2 Microphone System

In today’s hybrid environments, AV/IT professionals require user-friendly, highquality audio solutions. Shure’s Microflex Wireless (MXW) neXt 2 Microphone System is a two-channel wireless system that offers an intuitive, all-in-one audio solution for hybrid environments. MXW neXt 2 takes minutes to set up out of the box, simplifying complex installation workflows for AV/ IT professionals. It provides high-quality audio for higher education and corporate spaces that only require two wireless microphones, and connects seamlessly to video conferencing systems for remote presenters. The all-in-one base unit combines a wireless access point, docking charger, and onboard IntelliMix DSP to reduce the amount of hardware required. shure.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The MXW neXt 2 is a super reliable system, with a clean and robust design.

We expect nothing less from Shure, and aren’t disappointed.”

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SiliconCore Mobile All-In-One 136-inch HD+

SiliconCore’s Mobile All-In-One 136-inch HD+ LED display solution brings the benefits of the manufacturer’s unique and patented technologies into a high-performing, flexible presentation solution, ideal for collaboration rooms, engineering environments, training suites, and multi-purpose rooms. The 1.25mm pixel pitch display can be folded and wheeled into any environment, then expanded through a motorized display mechanism when in location to deliver a seamless, higher-than-HD 2,400-by-1,350resolution display. The Mobile All-In-One offers superior performance with an optional 240Hz frame rate display. It can also enable Multi Point of View (MPOV) in 3D active environments, and additionally provides a much smoother image with less lag, reducing eye fatigue in intensive viewing environments. silicon-core.com

SMART Technologies SMART Board QX Pro

SMART Technologies’ SMART Board QX Pro is a revolutionary interactive display designed to meet the highest demands of IT buyers in business sectors, including those in architecture, engineering, design, manufacturing, and more. The QX Pro boasts a 4K UHD resolution, ensuring crystalclear visuals that enhance presentations, collaboration, and interactive learning experiences. Utilizing SMART’s proprietary HyPr Touch with InGlass technology, the QX Pro offers a highly responsive and precise touch experience, supporting up to 20 simultaneous touch points. Additionally, the QX Pro is equipped with multiple HDMI, USB, and wireless connectivity options, easily integrating with existing IT infrastructure. It supports seamless connections with devices running Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Chrome OS. smarttech.com

What the Judge had to Say: “I like how two people can be using the QX Pro at the same time without hindering each other as they write.

Also, being able to connect remotely and do the drawings, in real time, is a nice option.”

What the Judge had to Say: “I love this spin on the AIO LED display product.

By making it foldable, they increase usability and ease of installation. I also appreciate the investment in the core tech; developing their own driver IC allows them to provide better power efficiency, higher refresh, et cetera.”

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Pro BRAVIA p Sony 98-inch BZ53L Sony’s Pro BRAVIA 98-inch BZ53L features the company’s innovative Deep Black NonGlare Coating which combines anti-glare and low-reflection technologies, while maintaining deep blacks, high contrast, and precise image quality. The BZ53L boasts an extraordinary 780-nit screen brightness with full-array local dimming and peak brightness of 1,500 nits. It also incorporates cinematic color, a wide viewing angle, a processor with cognitive intelligence, and 32GB memory.

Ideal for corporate, education, and retail applications, the BZ53L display addresses common concerns related to digital signage in challenging, high-ambient-, or directlighting environments. pro.sony

What the Judge had to Say: “This is a beautiful example of a large-format LCD. While there are similar products on the market, this display is just breathtaking; it has phenomenal blacks, the contrast is fantastic, and the high luminance means it can perform even in brightly lit spaces.”

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Tempest Fly Rental and Staging Projector Enclosure System

Tempest’s Fly Rental and Staging Projector Enclosure System is a revolutionary professional enclosure system for video projectors up to 50,000 lumens. Fly enclosures are incredibly lightweight, and fold flat for compact shipping and storage.

Fly protects projectors from heat, cold, and all kinds of weather, and networking is available for system monitoring. Fly comes with a wide range of rigging accessories, including a unique super-lightweight tower for stacking up to four enclosures in either portrait or landscape configurations. tempest.biz

What the Judge had to Say: “The fold flat design of the Fly and ease of stacking units shows how impressive the design of the system is for rental and staging markets. If I need a system to protect projectors from the elements or to reduce acoustical signatures, I wouldn’t be tempted to use any other product on the market.”

WINNERS

q XTEN-AV

p

ViewSonic ViewBoard IFP92UW Interactive Display

ViewSonic’s ViewBoard IFP92UW Interactive Display, with its unique 21:9 aspect ratio and 5K resolution, provides increased width for more usable interactive areas while delivering stunning visuals for making presentations, producing content, and sharing ideas. Designed specifically for Microsoft Teams Rooms, the IFP92UW is perfect for Front Row, decision-making, and collaboration. The 92-inch display provides up to 33 percent more screen space when compared to an equivalent 4K 16:9 display, and comes with multiple connectivity options including USB-C with 100W of charging, HDMI, DisplayPort, and RS232. It also features dual-pen 40-point touch, allowing multiple users to interact with the screen simultaneously, wireless/cable-free casting and sharing, digital whiteboarding, and remote monitoring and management. viewsonic.com

What the Judge had to Say: “I love this 21:9 screen size/form factor for this application. Overall, it’s a nice product.”

XTEN-AV is a pioneering cloud-based audio-visual software that allows users to complete AV designs and create winning proposals on the same cloud-based platform. XTEN-AV acts as a single source of truth for all data: project, design, and sales data, and is people and machine agnostic, helping users service existing and future customers. The platform incorporates innovative technology like VR, AI, automation, and cloud computing to synchronize data—down to the level of a single drawing in a design. Additionally, at the core of XTEN-AV lies X-DRAW, an intuitive drawing and diagramming tool that seamlessly blends design automation with AV-specific functionalities. xtenav.com

What the Judge had to Say: “XTEN-AV is the best in the market because it is simple to use and streamlines the design process. From design to proposal, XTEN-AV does it all and produces professional results in a fraction of the time.”

p Xyte Device Cloud Xyte’s Device Cloud (XDC) is the first allin-one servitization platform purpose-built for device and hardware manufacturers. It enables OEMs to cloudify, service, support, and commercialize their connected devices in one place, transforming them into integrated business solutions that combine hardware, software, and services. With XDC, device and hardware manufacturers can manage the complete lifecycle of their connected devices. XDC includes features like Xyte Connect, which enables OEMs and their value chain partners to share data through the cloud and collaborate on device configuration, setup, support, updates, and monitoring and management; as well as Xyte Anywhere, which enables OEMs to guarantee cloud connectivity for their products regardless of end customers’ enterprise networks. xyte.io

What the Judge had to Say: “XDC provides manufacturers an easy way to create branded cloud services to support their product lines without the expense of coding professionals. It is a great value add for smaller companies or those looking to push something to market quickly with IoT app support.”

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WINNERS

u 22Miles Offline AI 22Miles’ Offline AI allows users to experience instant responses to questions, accessible offline from anywhere, without Wi-Fi or cellular connection. Offline AI enables customers to engage with 22Miles’ proprietary AI model as a downloadable mobile app that occupies as little as 77MB of storage. Because it leverages a proprietary AI model, Offline AI is notably faster than online ChatGPT response, providing nearly instantaneous answers, while keeping customer data secure with local storage. Offline AI also offers predictable pricing regardless of query volume since it does not rely on tokens or pay-per-query like popular online AI models.

22miles.com

What the Judge had to Say: “22Miles continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible today with their Offline AI system. Users will appreciate that the system keeps customer data secure using local storage, which is a distinction compared to consumergrade cloud solutions.”

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WINNERS

q Appspace Digital Signage The integration of Appspace’s Digital Signage platform with Microsoft Teams Rooms allows joint customers to transform meeting areas into vibrant communication hubs during idle times, ensuring employees and visitors are well-informed and engaged. Utilizing these screens extends employee communication to every collaboration space, maximizing the impact of workplace messaging and information sharing. Additionally, the integration enables one-click activation, eliminating complicated workarounds and providing organizations with a convenient and hasslefree experience. Moreover, organizations can centrally manage and share content through Appspace playlists, enhancing workplace communication and engagement. This centralized approach simplifies content distribution, thereby fostering a more connected and informed workforce. appspace.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Appspace hits a home run with its Microsoft partnership, activating idle Teams Rooms displays with customized content. Appspace has really begun to round out their platform and this integration is a huge step forward considering the strength of their digital signage offerings.”

q BrightSign XT5

48.5-inch p Bluefin Flex-OS Display Bluefin’s 48.5-inch Flex-OS Display is a solution designed for the visual display market. Key display quality features include an ultra-high resolution of 3,840 by 720, ensuring crystal-clear image; a maximum brightness of 400 nits, guaranteeing excellent visibility even in well-lit environments; an impressive 89/89/89/89 viewing angle, providing consistent image clarity from virtually any perspective; and a contrast ratio of 1000:1, delivering deep blacks and bright whites for a superior viewing experience. Advanced system integration features include an incorporated System on Chip (SoC) for seamless operation and enhanced performance; standard HDMI for straightforward connection to various devices; and an available mini-USB touch screen override option, adding an interactive dimension to the display. thebluefin.com

All of BrightSign’s XT5 models elevate and future proof digital signage activations to create captivating experiences for years to come. The XT245 delivers robust 3D motion graphics in 4K and vibrant HDR video, from Full HD to breathtaking 8K, all while being powered over Ethernet for highly efficient deployments. Meanwhile, the XT1145 enables live video playback via an HDMI input and expands engagement options with USB and serial connections. Brands can seamlessly blend broadcasts into signage, including live news and sports, to offer an engaging atmosphere. And finally, the XT2145 can control two screens simultaneously with dual HDMI outputs. This capability has become more critical as brands look for ways to engage consumers with more dynamic visual content. brightsign.biz

What the Judge had to Say: “The ability of the XT2145 to display content on dual screens simultaneously without sacrificing performance is a win. BrightSign understands the signage market of today and the potential down the road, and their platform provides all the tools necessary to provide years of service.”

What the Judge had to Say: “System on Chip enables seamless operation. The ability to add interactivity makes this display worth checking out.”

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Clear Digital Evo Roll

q and Evo Roll Pro

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Chief TiLED Series dvLED Universal Wall Mounts

Chief’s TiLED Series dvLED Universal Wall Mounts are designed for adaptability, scalability, and precision. They introduce a new floating button-capture technology and universal mounting hardware, making them compatible with a multitude of interlocking panels, regardless of the manufacturer. Their design streamlines the specifying, ordering, and installation process, allowing for global stocking of a single set of part numbers. The mounts offer three-axis adjustments (X, Y, Z) for accurate alignment of panels, compensating for uneven installation surfaces. They also feature double depth adjustment for creating flawlessly flat video walls and independent column adjustment for perfectly level installations. Their design is futureproof, ready to adapt quickly to market changes and new display evolutions. legrandav.com

What the Judge had to Say: “TiLED Series dvLED Universal Wall Mounts are a vast improvement over other products on the market, allowing three axis adjustments post installation. From an integrators point of view, having a universal solution like TiLED makes sense and saves dollars on the install.”

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Clear Digital’s Evo Roll shines indoors with its stunning HD display and sleek design.

Captivate audiences for over 10 hours on battery, effortlessly update content, and schedule playlists with our CMS (Sho).

Impact resistant and weatherproof (IP54), it’s a mobile marvel for events, retail, or anywhere that needs a burst of brilliance.

The Evo Roll Pro takes it outside. Built for adventure, its 2,000-nit brightness and antiglare screen conquer the sun, while the IP65 rating laughs off rain and dust. Punctureresistant wheels and lockable support keep it rolling smoothly, indoors or out. From captivating crowds in lobbies to informing bus/car riders, the Evo Roll series delivers.

So, ditch the static and roll with brilliance today. getcleardigital.com

What the Judge had to Say: “I love the portable, batterypowered signage system, and the Evo Roll is the first model of its kind that meets my expectations for a high-quality visual experience without the bulk or clunky programming experience.”

i5LED IllumiWrap

p powered by LightnTec

i5LED’s IllumiWrap powered by LightnTec is a revolutionary LED foil with an ultrathin, flexible design that redefines display technology. Easily attached to any substructure frame or banner using Velcro and controlled remotely, it allows for quick and effortless deployment. Perfect for both indoor and outdoor applications, this lightweight, flexible LED foil offers unparalleled versatility and creativity.

With an IP66 rating, IllumiWrap is built to withstand outdoor weather conditions, ensuring reliability and durability. Available in pixel pitches of 5mm, 8mm, and 16mm, our product caters to diverse needs, from indoor event displays to large-scale outdoor banners, providing vibrant visuals and energy-efficient operation. i5led.com

What the Judge had to Say: “IllumiWrap is one of the most flexible (pun intended) LED products on the market. The biggest advantage is that the product does not require a traditional aluminum backplane, shedding weight and providing optionality for deploying the hardware in various environments.”

WINNERS

ScalableLine q IHSE Pro Series 5K

Experiential q Korbyt Signage

IHSE’s ScalableLine Pro Series 5K, supporting up to 5K60 video, has optimized firmware that makes it possible to transmit full 4:4:4 color space running over a typical 10G network switch up to 5120x1440 @60Hz. These extenders offer 0.47ms latency for delay-free transmission of video, keyboard, and mouse. Unique features include the ability to control and display up to 16 computer sources on a single display, and manage them via a single keyboard and mouse. In addition, up to four Scalable Pro receivers can be network-bonded to allow up to 64 sources across the four displays.

Other benefits of the ScalableLine Pro includes redundant power, redundant signal ports, and options for audio and RS-232 data transmission. ihse.com

Korbyt’s Experiential Signage empowers businesses, universities, and corporate organizations to create truly immersive, interactive digital experiences with a near-endless array of third-party sensors and devices, including touch-interactive tablets, pressure sensors, mechanical and capacitive-sensing buttons, temperature sensors, lift and learn sensors, or even optical sensors. Experiential Signage is the newest addition to Korbyt’s cloud-based CMS that lets administrators engage employees, students, customers, and guests via various channels, including digital signage, desktop, email, and mobile devices. With more than 1 million endpoints, 300 cloud migrations, and more than 100 native integrations to date, Korbyt Anywhere is the most advanced platform to captivate audiences on any screen, anywhere. korbyt.com

What the Judge had to Say: “This product is a win for most, if not all, digital signage users/ administrators, as it can pull all your device’s KVM needs into one.”

p Kitcast 2.0 Kitcast 2.0 by Kitcast leverages powerful AI technology to optimize your digital signage experience. The AI-driven content management system automates content creation and scheduling, ensuring messages are displayed at the right time. AI analytics provide insights into audience engagement, helping you fine tune your strategy for maximum impact. Designed for ease of use, Kitcast’s drag-and-drop interface allows anyone to create and manage stunning content effortlessly. Choose from a library of customizable templates and a wide range of content options, including videos, images, social media feeds, and live data. Whether you manage a single screen or a vast network of displays, Kitcast’s cloud-based architecture allows you to update content remotely, ensuring consistent and timely communication. new.kitcast.tv

What the Judge had to Say: “This new addition from Korbyt is a great product in the world of digital signage.”

What the Judge had to Say: “With Kitcast 2.0 we see the same sleek user interface, but with a more mature product offering that is much more adept for commercial environments. I also appreciate how they have developed an offline mode for the times network connectivity is compromised.”

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WINNERS

Nanolumens Nixel

q Series Flex Display

p LG Kinetic DVLED LG’s Kinetic DVLED display offers vivid color expression powered by HDR, with a wide color spectrum and high contrast ratio, to deliver extremely lifelike and engaging content. The Kinetic DVLED display features vibrant colors, an incredible 1,000-nit brightness level and is available in 3.9mm, 2.9mm, 2.6mm, and 1.9mm pixel pitches for an enhanced visual experience everywhere from transit hubs and retail stores to stadiums and hotels. Powered by LG’s high-performance system controller, the Kinetic DVLED display is compatible with LG software solutions including SuperSign CMS, LED Assistant, and ConnectedCare, which provide customers with efficient display control and customization. lg.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Combine LG’s Kinetic DVLED display with its software solutions, and you’ve got a great package.”

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The Nixel Series Flex Display by Nanolumens—with its ultra-tight radius and narrow pixel pitch—is designed to elevate the standard for curved displays, making it an ideal choice for a variety of applications, including military simulation and training, digital signage, and immersive installations.

One of the standout features of this new Nixel Flex product is its remarkable bend radius of 11.5 inches, achieved in a cylindrical screen measuring 23 inches in diameter with a pixel pitch of 1.56mm. The Nixel Series Flex displays feature fine pixel pitches starting at 0.9mm, combined with True Curve Technology to achieve exceptional angular resolution. nanolumens.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Combining the high brightness and long lifespan of the LED panels, the Nixel Flex Series Display presents a wide variety of options for digital signage, especially when it comes to the upclose viewing distances of today’s immersive environments.”

Luminate p Planar Ultra W Series The new Planar Luminate Ultra W Series fine-pixel-pitch LED video wall display pairs the latest advancements in LED technology with a 16:9 wide aspect ratio, allowing users to create standard resolution in fine-pitch outdoor LED and redefine close-up outdoor viewing of media-rich content. The new solution features models in 1.3mm, 1.6mm, and 2.0mm pixel pitches, which can be configured to perfectly match Full HD and Ultra HD resolutions; and brightness of up to 3,000 nits supports viewing from as close as 8 feet. Planar Luminate Ultra W Series models also incorporate MicroLED technology to produce enhanced black levels and high brightness, even in direct sunlight. planar.com

What the Judge had to Say: “This product features the high-quality engineering that we have grown accustomed to from Planar. There is Planar staff dedicated to installation, and while they do offer integrator certifications, they are intentional about offering their team to deliver the finished product.”

WINNERS

Color q Samsung E-Paper EMD Series Samsung’s Color E-Paper EMD Series seamlessly blends digital ink with innovative full-color e-paper technology, marking a significant leap forward in the signage market. This advanced product features a 32-inch display that supports QHD resolution (2,560 by 1,440) and supports 60,000 colors (six colors per pixel), allowing businesses and advertisers to create captivating and dynamic content to engage audiences. At just 17.8mm thick, and even slimmer at 8.6mm at its thinnest point, this lightweight e-paper weighs less than 3kg (excluding batteries), offering unmatched portability and versatility for various applications. Additionally, ultra-low power consumption translates to cost-effective operation, providing prolonged functionality while keeping energy costs to a minimum. samsung.com

What the Judge had to Say: “I love that this e-paper technology is finally making its way onto the AV market. The extremely lower power requirements will broaden adoption of digital signage, and over time we will see it used exclusively for QSR and other types of info signage.”

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SpinetiX iBX440 Digital Signage Player

SpinetiX’s iBX440 Digital Signage Player makes video walls accessible to everyone.

Four HDMI outputs, a cutting-edge Intel Core processor, the purpose-built DSOS operating system, and user-friendly SpinetiX ARYA CMS all work together to enable impressive 4x4K video walls at 60fps while making setup easy for everyone. SpinetiX ARYA comes standard with every iBX440 and now features a custom intuitive wizard to guide you through the setup of your video wall. Combined with powerful templates, it helps you easily set up impactful content in various video wall layouts in either vertical or horizontal mode. Now anyone can do it. spinetix.com

What the Judge had to Say: “SpinetiX has always delivered extremely durable hardware and the iBX440 continues that trend but adds value with quad HDMI outputs in a single chassis. The included ARYA platform is easy to use and will let all users unlock the power of multiple displays quickly and efficiently.”

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WINNERS

AMX SVSI N3300

u Series Encoders and Decoders

AMX’s SVSI N3300 Series Encoders and Decoders are a fantastic solution for almost any streaming application but are ideal for colleges and universities, casinos, hospitality, and government applications. High-quality 4K60 H.26x and Dante AV-H streaming is perfect for transmitting the highest quality video at lower bandwidth. Hybrid learning applications will especially benefit from the significant cost savings of simultaneous dual-stream encoding and local recording to an external USB 3.0 drive. Dante Controller handles all device routing, naming, and configuration, while Dante Domain Manager provides IT-level management over device organization, user access, multiple subnet coordination, and complete audit logs for every endpoint and user. amx.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The N3300 Series is a powerhouse, but the best feature might just be the ability to record non-HDCP video sources directly to a USB 3.0 external drive connected to encoders.”

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WINNERS

q

Atlona Velocity AT-VKP-8E Keypad Controller

Atlona’s Velocity AT-VKP-8E Keypad Controller is an alternative to touch panels for AV control in smaller spaces and less complex applications. The AT-VKP-8E features eight buttons and provides IP-based system control in environments where a simple and straightforward keypad interface is preferred, such as standard classrooms and small meeting spaces. The VKP-8E is set up using the new Atlona Cloud online configuration and management platform.

Atlona Cloud provides an intuitive interface for defining the e-paper label/icon and LED color for each button as well as macros for controlling room technology added from an extensive database of Atlona and third-party drivers. atlona.com

What the Judge had to Say: “I really like the e-paper GUI experience for users, and cloud configuration means you’ll be up and running in no time.

E-paper really unlocks the slim form factor, with the ability to dynamically change the display content depending on user input.”

Design q Blackmagic 2110 IP Converters

Multimedia p Aurora IPBaseT IBT Series Aurora Multimedia IPBaseT IBT Series AV Distribution Solution comprises two transceiver devices: IBT-1-BX (box) and IBT-1WP1 (1-gang wall unit) are the building blocks to create up to a 255-by-255 low-cost 4K60 4:4:4 matrix using a network switch. The IBT Series has the simplicity of HDBaseT with the scalability of AVoIP. IBT-1-BX features include HDMI in/out; PoE LAN; IPBaseT LAN port; SFP for single or multi-mode fiber; RS-232, IR, and CEC; USB 2.0 extension; a front display with buttons; analog audio line in/out; the ability to rack mount four in 1RU or 16 in 4RU; and energy consumption as low as 3W. IBT-1-WP1 features include HDMI in/out, PoE LAN, CEC, USB-C 2.0 extension, rear dip switch for configuration, and energy consumption as low as 3W. auroramm.com

Blackmagic Design’s 2110 IP Converters include mini and rack-mount models that support Ultra HD using low-cost 10G Ethernet. Designed to integrate SDI equipment into 2110 IP systems for customers in broadcast, live production, and AV, Blackmagic 2110 IP Converters conform to the SMPTE ST-2110 standard for IP video, which specifies the transport, synchronization, and description of 10bit video, audio, and ancillary data over managed IP networks for broadcast.

Blackmagic Design has a wide range of SMPTE-2110 IP video products, including converters, video monitors, audio monitors, and even cameras. blackmagicdesign.com

What the Judge had to Say: “New 2110 IP Converters continue to build on Blackmagic Design’s storied history. The 2110 IP series has a variety of form factors, but each remains easy to configure when you connect the device to a standard 10G Ethernet switch using copper or fiber.”

What the Judge had to Say: “I really appreciate that they’ve designed the platform to function as point-to-point devices or as a large matrix with simple configuration.

Aurora has embraced transceiver technology, bringing integrators and end users the most value in the least amount of hardware boxes.”

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Epson ELPCS01

q Mobile Projector Cart

Stream Deck p Elgato Neo Elgato’s Stream Deck Neo is an eight-key controller that makes everyday tasks fast and fun. It automates the little, repetitive stuff such as pasting text or browsing folders so students, teachers, and other educational professionals can focus on bigger things. Tap to manage presentations or mute your mic in Teams, Zoom, et cetera, even when apps are running in the background. Customize your keys with a simple drag-and-drop, all inside free software for Windows or Mac. It has an InfoBar that shows your most important info in real time, plus two touch points to tap between pages of actions. Others will wonder how you do it. elgato.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The Stream Deck Neo controller allows users to automate and accelerate workflows. I’m really excited to see how many different ways I can incorporate the Stream Deck Neo into my daily workplace and production environments. At $100, the ROI can be achieved in minutes.”

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Epson’s ELPCS01 Mobile Projector Cart is a smartly designed integrated AV furniture solution that works exclusively with the Epson PowerLite 810E (white) and 815E (black) extreme-short-throw display. Built to assist with temporary display needs for shared spaces in education and corporate environments, the sleek and versatile ELPCS01 mobile display solution works with the projector to effortlessly transform nearly any wall into a larger-than-life display and learning experience. With true mobility, the spacious cabinet and built-in USB hub allows quick and easy connectivity to speakers and web cameras to support hybrid learning and meetings. Additionally, an intuitive control panel and built-in Wi-Fi supports device and display management. epson.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The ELPCS01 Mobile Projector Cart system provides users an aesthetically pleasing experience in a true plug-and-play cart.”

Technologies p Hall ComAlert System Hall Technologies’ ComAlert System is for use in conference rooms, classrooms, or wherever mics or wireless lavalier mics are needed. The system can be used with Hall Technologies collaboration solutions as well as any system capable of accepting a microphone or USB input. The heart of the system is the ComAlert Microphone Controller, named OSIRIS-DSP1, which is a central audio processing device for extending sound pickup systems in classrooms, conference rooms, et cetera. It has a web interface for controlling the unit and easy setup; it can send alert messages to safety and emergency systems; and it provides mixing and DSP control of all connected microphones. halltechav.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The ComAlert system really adds value to traditional wireless microphone systems in classrooms, allowing users to trigger safety alert systems using buttons on the microphone. I’m extremely impressed by how well thought out the hardware and software workflows are.”

WINNERS

q Hisense GoBoard Series

Professional q JBL Pro Soundbar PSB-2

Hisense’s GoBoard Series contains cuttingedge technology, including superior processors and the latest touch technology, ensuring best-in-class user experiences.

Seamlessly integrating wireless connectivity, collaboration becomes simple and engaging, fostering productivity and creativity in any setting. Experience stunning 4K Ultra HD picture quality, as well as perfect color and rich details in any environment. With a 4K user interface, the GoBoard delivers vibrant imagery, enhancing the user experience like never before. With built-in ambient light sensors, screen brightness adjusts automatically according to current light conditions, optimizing energy efficiency while maintaining visual clarity. Additionally, the GoBoard and GoBoard Live displays feature Google Certification and the latest Android 13 operating system, offering unparalleled access to Google services and applications. hisense-b2b.com

JBL Professional’s Pro Soundbar PSB2 adds to the PSB soundbar lineup by adding HDMI and Bluetooth digital source inputs. With room-focused sound, simplified digital connectivity, and durable materials and finish, the JBL PSB-2 is an ideal solution that’s perfect for a wide range of professional hospitality, corporate, and education applications. Specifically tuned for human speech, PSB-2 integrates a frontfacing speaker that delivers significantly enhanced fidelity over internal television speakers. The improved clarity at low volume levels ensures that users can hear clearly without the need to increase volume unnecessarily. Featuring commercial-grade materials and construction, PSB-2 is also designed to withstand the rigors of daily commercial use. jblpro.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The GoBoard Series delivers value to end users with large, interactive displays at approachable price points.

Hisense, in embracing Android, has equipped users with a suite of tools they are familiar with, and the hardware build quality seems up to the task for many classrooms.”

p IPEVO Vurbo.ai IPEVO’s Vurbo.ai is a groundbreaking software that seamlessly integrates with IPEVO hardware products. This innovative pairing promises users a heightened level of functionality and convenience, revolutionizing the user experience. Vurbo.ai introduces a suite of AI-powered tools aimed at optimizing document management on both Windows and Mac platforms. With features including voice-to-text transcription, intelligent summarization, real-time translation, and AI-assisted tasks, Vurbo.ai serves as the ultimate productivity partner, speaking the user’s language in more ways than one.

Instantly transforming speech into text and facilitating rapid content comprehension, this revolutionary software empowers users to reclaim up to 90 percent of their workflow time, allowing them to focus on what truly matters. us.ipevo.com

What the Judge had to Say: “One of the most streamlined audio bars on the market from an integrator’s standpoint—the JBL PSB-2 Soundbar fills the need for improved audio without having to resort to using a device designed for unified communications.”

What the Judge had to Say: “The demo of Vurbo.ai is very impressive and the software has the potential to be used in a variety of environments. The low price point and straightforward user interface make this offering from IPEVO one of the best from InfoComm 2024.”

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p LG CreateBoard LG’s CreateBoard stands as a purposebuilt solution catering to in-person, remote, and hybrid learning environments.

It is among one of the most specialized educational solutions available, featuring a cutting-edge, up-to-40-point, multitouch interactive display, which facilitates real-time annotations on digital files and a comprehensive suite of tools for content creation, sharing, and management. The full LG CreateBoard lineup includes 55-, 65-, 75-, and 86-inch models, ensuring that students can easily view presentations, regardless of their seating location or size of the room. Additionally, the LG CreateBoard Share enables users to show up to nine shared screens in real time when the LG CreateBoard Share app is installed on the device. lg.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The LG CreateBoard is a mature interactive display device that will provide years of service in classrooms.”

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MAXHUB XBoard Interactive Flat Panel Series

MAXHUB’s XBoard Interactive Flat Panel (IFP) Series—available in 55-, 65-, 75-, 86and 92-inch sizes—provides an advanced video conferencing experience and is ideal for daily collaboration sessions. Powered by the MAXHUB MeetingOS, these displays have a built-in three-camera system with advanced AI capabilities (65-inch and above display size) as well as the ability to support active speaker tracking and auto framing. The XBoard IFP Series offers 4K touch displays with a modular PC running Windows IoT. This provides a wealth of interactive capability using a wide range of source content. To ensure superior audio quality, these displays also provide 16 built-in microphone arrays with AI noise suppression. maxhub.com

What the Judge had to Say: “While many manufacturers have started integrating cameras into their displays, the built-in three-camera system on the XBoard out performs most, and the ability to order in a 92-inch ultra-wide model sets this product line apart.”

p NUITEQ NEXT Hub NUITEQ’s NEXT Hub is an affordable and eco-friendly display update solution. With features like EDLA, enhanced audio and visual performance, and compatibility with the three-in-one microphone system, the NEXT takes it a step further with the integration of the Clear Touch HC200 Camera. This sleek and modern design is perfect for those seeking simplicity. The NEXT’s audio performance is significantly enhanced by its two 10W dual-channel highpower speakers, seamlessly complementing the three-in-one microphone system by delivering superior audio output quality.

Additionally, it incorporates noise reduction, echo cancellation, reverberation resistance, and a built-in AGC algorithm, ensuring exceptional voice capture capabilities. next-hub.com

What the Judge had to Say: “NEXT Hub is already one of the best products on the market to extract value out of existing displays. NUITEQ improves the user experience for meeting participants with their threein-one microphone options, including a neck collar and handheld options which can be used simultaneously.”

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Optoma Creative Touch 5-Series Interactive Flat Panel Displays

Optoma’s Creative Touch 5-Series Interactive Flat Panel Displays offer advanced tools and added functionality, supporting educators and professionals with enhanced learning and remote, real-time collaboration.

Enterprise Device Licensing Agreement certification gives users access to the full Google Workspace experience, and the Optoma Solution Suite offers several annotation tools; a file manager; display share; and a digital whiteboard with an improved floating toolbar, customization tools, and an infinity canvas. The nextgeneration 5-Series is compatible with the Optoma Management Suite. This intuitive display management solution streamlines operations, offering IT administrators and technicians a real-time remote platform to monitor, manage, and diagnose multiple displays simultaneously. optomausa.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Hands down my favorite feature is the floating toolbar, but the infinity whiteboard and embedded browser features are close behind. The web management suite also provides a strong value if users deploy multiple units in their environments.”

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p PepperDash Portal PepperDash Portal is an AV operations platform that enables you to accurately define audiovisual standards organization wide, efficiently deploy them across the globe, and intelligently manage them in real time. Features include unified device management, process management, compliance monitoring, device configuration, file sharing, and the ability to share data with internal and external project teams. pepperdash.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The strength of the portal is PepperDash’s Unified Device Management Family of Manufacturers so users are not limited to APIs designed by single manufacturers.”

Samsung WAD Series Interactive White Boards

Samsung’s WAD Series Interactive White Boards are the brand’s first Google Enterprise Devices Licensing Agreement (EDLA)-certified interactive displays.

Powered by Android 13, the WAD Series— available in 65-, 75-, and 86-inch models— provides teachers and students with a seamless, intuitive experience. It provides access to educational apps through Google Play, while allowing access to Google services such as Google Classroom and Drive. It offers a natural writing experience with infrared (IR) touch and supports up to 40 simultaneous touchpoints. A three-inone USB-C port simplifies connectivity and allows connected devices to be charged at up to 65W, and an HDMI output enables easy content sharing. samsung.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Samsung’s integration of AI for automatic transcription and transcribing lesson audio into text is a significant industry development.

Providing automatic class notes and post-instruction quiz opportunities to measure students’ reception of the material has the capability of improving performance outcomes.”

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4W-B Series p Sharp AQUOS BOARD Sharp’s 4W-B Series AQUOS BOARD interactive display puts collaboration and communication at users’ fingertips in the classroom, workplace, and virtually everywhere else through precise 20-point, multi-touch functionality and versatile connectivity. Key product features include wireless casting, precise multi-touch detection, simultaneous writing for multiple users, and a user-friendly Sharp Pen Software interface. Sharp’s Pen Software gives users access to pen settings and functions to personalize the user experience for stand-out perks like handwriting recognition, whiteboard mode, and overlay mode. The 4W-B Series AQUOS BOARD also includes an HTML5 browser app to allow users to leverage web-based content, an additional feature promoting productivity. business.sharpusa.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The Sharp AQUOS BOARD 4W-B Series gives users a strong interactive display experience, with an exceptional pen and multi-touch performance.

Overall, the build quality is above average.”

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SMART Technologies SMART Board RX Series

SMART Technologies’ SMART Board RX Series embodies the spirit of innovation and sustainability in education technology, with features focused on saving time, unparalleled versatility, and commitment to enhancing educational experiences.

The RX Series’ built-in patented Tool Explorer technology and optional SMART programmable tools blend the digital and physical world to allow students interact with content like never before for a more immersive and participative learning journey. Moreover, this performance display comes with the most precise inking experience on the market, simple student device integration, and ease of use for educators that is unmatched. Plus, with its market-leading upgradability, this durable, high-performance display doesn’t just last—it evolves with your needs. smarttech.com

What the Judge had to Say: “The strongest features of the SMART Technologies SMART Board RX Series are the programmable stylus and accessibility tools. The SMART Board RX Series is one of the best solutions for the K-5 market.”

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TouchView Interactive ULTRA Series

TouchView Interactive’s ULTRA Series stands apart in the crowded interactive panel market due to a focus on ease of use and security from design to delivery. Panels are available in sizes from 65 to 98 inches.

Rated for 50,000 hours, all sizes feature 4K resolution, up to 40 points of touch, and perpetual software licenses. Including a built-in camera, line array microphone, and powerful front facing speakers, the ULTRA Series is video conferencing and distance learning ready. Now featuring an Android 13 OS with Google EDLA license, the ULTRA Series includes Google Play, providing easy access to applications for education and corporate environments. touchview.com

ViewSonic ClassSwift Software

ViewSonic’s ClassSwift Edtech Software Solution is designed to empower educators and allow teachers to create dynamic, realtime lessons using any format, gain instant insights into student comprehension, reduce prep time, enhance student engagement, and maximize learning. ClassSwift utilizes existing materials for a more efficient teaching process. The software offers educators a way to create interactive, push-and-response content, and can be easily integrated with their lesson planning.

ClassSwift allows teachers to customize their materials and student evaluations.

It features comprehensive, real-time student performance insights, which can help teachers modify lessons and adapt new tactics based on learning preferences.

A centralized dashboard is available so teachers can view individual class reports, such as attendance, assignment distribution records, and test logs. viewsonic.com

What the Judge had to Say: “ViewSonic ClassSwift education software is an appealing value add for K-8 programming as it provides teachers an easy way to evaluate student comprehension. Overall the software is simple and time efficient to use.”

What the Judge had to Say: “ULTRA series panels continue to be my favorite display when it comes to natural handwriting using pens. The displays are bright and provide highcontrast images, even in rooms with high ambient light. The form factor is minimalistic in all the right ways, without sacrificing capabilities.”

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Vanguard LED Displays Infinity Controllers

Vanguard LED Displays’ Infinity Controllers utilize a card/chassis system, allowing for the optimal customization of any LED video display system. By combining Infinity with Vanguard LED Displays, there is no need for expensive switcher/multi-window processors which will result in significant savings. A plethora of input and output options guarantee that Infinity Controllers can meet and exceed the requirements of the most complex direct-view LED systems. Infinity Controllers can also be paired with the Vanguard LED VE4K encoder to enable dynamic screen sharing from a high volume of connected machines. Additionally, three chassis sizes allow for the perfect configuration of inputs, outputs, and optimal functionality. vanguardled.com

What the Judge had to Say: “Customization is what makes the Vanguard LED Displays’ Infinity Controllers stand out.”

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PRODUCTS THAT MATTER

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THERE’S NO VIDEO WITHOUT AUDIO

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TeamConnect Ceiling Medium

Sennheiser’s TeamConnect Ceiling Medium (TCC M) microphone, with a coverage range of up to 40 square meters, is the right choice for midsize lecture or collaboration spaces. The TCC M is a real problem solver that allows for cable-free tables and flexible furniture arrangement, while offering Sennheiser’s trusted audio quality, efficient setup, brand-agnostic integrations, simple management and control, a sleek design, and a sustainable impact. It is certified for Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Tencent, DingTalk, and more.

sennheiser.com

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CSD1X2U-V2 Drop-In Ceiling Speaker

Bogen’s CSD1X2U-V2 Drop-In Ceiling Speaker is designed for a wide-range of applications. This versatile, full-range speaker supports 8-ohm, 25V, and 70V configurations and features an innovative integrated mounting plate for easy connection with Bogen Nyquist IP-based plenum-rated intercom or amplifier modules. With PoE amplifier modules, the CSD1X2U-V2 transforms into a source amplifier/speaker, powering additional 25V or 70V speakers. This speaker’s flexibility streamlines your inventory, reducing the need to remember multiple part numbers.

bogen.com

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Gain 120 Amplifier

Atlona’s Gain 120 Amplifier (AT-GAIN-120) is a compact power amplifier designed for low- or high-impedance applications. A mode selector switch allows the Gain 120 to deliver two channels of 60W each into 4 or 8 ohms, or a single channel of 120W at 70 or 100V. It is available with the AT-GAIN-NET networked audio card, featuring an AES67 and Dante dual-channel audio bridge. The AT-GAIN-NET adds the capability to accept two channels over a network from a Dante or AES67equipped DSP and Atlona OmniStream encoders. This Class D amplifier is energy efficient, convection cooled, and ENERGY STAR qualified.

atlona.com

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RM-CR Remote Conference Processor and Controller

Yamaha’s RM-CR Remote Conference Processor and Controller is at the heart of the ADECIA family of products, replacing traditional digital signal processors (DSPs) for 90 percent of today’s conference rooms.

ADECIA uses distributed architecture with the DSP built into the microphones. The RM-CR combines the signals and routes them onto four interfaces: USB, line in and out, SIP, and Bluetooth. The RM-CR features intelligent automation, “AI” acoustic autotuning, and signal routing. With just a few mouse clicks, even less technically inclined folks can easily set up a system. The RM-CR also provides audio engineers with all the traditional tools and granular adjustability they may need for challenging environments.

yamaha.com

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IPD-TSB2.0 DanteEnabled Soundbar

SoundTube’s IPD-TSB2.0 Dante-Enabled Soundbar is designed for modern conferencing environments. This ultra-thin two-way soundbar, just 1.5 inches thick, delivers exceptional audio quality with four 3-inch woofers, four bass radiators, and two 0.75-inch tweeters. Seamlessly integrating with Dante networks, it offers end-to-end connectivity and flexibility for integrators.

Built with high-quality materials and stylish brushed metal aesthetics, the IPD-TSB2.0 features a built-in amplifier, DSP, and PoE compatibility for easy installation. Ideal for conference rooms, classrooms, and offices, this versatile soundbar provides superior audio performance in a sleek package.

soundtube.mseaudio.com

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Microflex Wireless neXt 2

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WX-AM800 Ceiling Array Microphone

In today’s hybrid environments, AV/IT professionals require user-friendly, highquality audio solutions. Shure’s Microflex Wireless neXt 2 (MXW neXt 2) is a twochannel wireless system that offers an intuitive, all-in-one audio solution. The MXW neXt 2 takes minutes to set up out of the box, simplifying complex installation workflows for AV/IT professionals. It provides high-quality audio for higher education and corporate spaces that only require two wireless microphones, and connects seamlessly to video conferencing systems for remote presenters. The all-inone base unit combines a wireless access point, docking charger, and onboard IntelliMix DSP to reduce the amount of hardware required.

As classrooms and workplaces have evolved, so has the demand for sharp, clear audio to ensure all participants can actively engage and hear the speaker. Panasonic Connect’s WX-AM800 Ceiling Array microphone covers a 30-by-30-foot area with four adjustable zones, and automatically adapts its sensitivity based on the speaker’s location. The ceiling microphone can connect to the new WX-AU202 Antenna/Receiver to add two Panasonic DECT Wireless microphones without consuming rack space, and provide more options for speakers.

The ceiling microphone can also integrate with one Panasonic PTZ camera for 16 camera presets with no extra controllers or programming needed.

shure.com

connect.panasonic.com

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Engage 50 II Headset

Jabra’s Engage 50 II Headset features three microphones that help it surpass the standards of Microsoft’s Premium Microphone for the Open Office standard, canceling out up to 36 decibels of noise.

The headset also comes with a SmartRinger feature, alerting users of incoming calls even when not in front of their computer within their home office. Beyond its superb audio quality, the Engage 50 II is equipped with innovative Engage+ software, which analyzes conversations as they happen. Engage+ delivers live on-screen pop ups focused on call experience, including background noise, the position of the headset’s microphone, silence, and interruptions.

jabra.com

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HDL310 and HDL410 Pro Audio Systems

LITE 10 SmartBoom Headset

Nureva’s HDL310 and HDL410 Pro Audio Systems, powered by patented Microphone Mist technology, deliver full-room mic pickup without complex or costly setups.

Designed for large and extra-large rooms, these groundbreaking systems comprise just one or two microphone and speaker bars and a connect module for audio coverage in spaces up to 35 by 55 feet (10.7 by 16.8m).

Certified for Microsoft Teams and Zoom, the HDL310 and HDL410 also work seamlessly with other UC&C platforms and standard USB devices. Nureva Console is included with purchase so devices can be monitored and managed remotely. A customized, live online demo shows how the technology handles challenging acoustic environments.

Pliant Technologies’ SmartBoom LITE Headset now includes enhancements to its existing list of renowned features. Among these is a new, field-replaceable cable for exceptional flexibility and a newly designed swivel earcup for long-term comfort and stability. An on/off microphone muting feature allows the adjustable microphone boom to act as an on/off switch for quick muting. It incorporates a closed back; supraaural on-ear design; and a lightweight, singleear form factor, providing enhanced acoustic isolation. The ambidextrous, swiveling mic boom is flexible and has a dynamic. noisecanceling cardioid microphone optimized for voice communications and outstanding audio quality.

nureva.com

plianttechnologies.com

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Aimline ALX-D Series Digitally Steerable Column Loudspeakers

AtlasIED’s Aimline ALX-D Series Digitally Steerable Column Loudspeakers round out the brand’s comprehensive technology catalog. The loudspeakers comprise seven models with state-of-the-art beam steering and Dante audio standard. The series includes the ALX-4D, ALX-8D, ALX-16D, ALX-24D, ALX-32D, ALX-40D, and ALX48D models—each aptly named based on the number of DSP channels/transducers included per model. Modern facilities often use highly reflective surfaces such as glass, marble, and stone, which create significant acoustical challenges. The digitally steerable ALX-D column loudspeakers were designed to address these acoustical challenges, resulting in optimal venue coverage and the best possible direct-to-reverberant ratio.

atlasied.com

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12 EdgeMax Series

13 Flex Pods

Bose Professional’s EdgeMax Series sounds like a surface-mount loudspeaker, looks like an in-ceiling loudspeaker, and directs sound asymmetrically into spaces where traditional loudspeakers can’t go. The EdgeMax series combines high-fidelity sound with patented directional technology to break free from the limitations of the in-ceiling loudspeaker category, delivering the coverage patterns, high SPL, and frequency response of larger, surface-mount loudspeakers, but with a clean visual aesthetic. The secret to EdgeMax speakers’ room-filling sound lies in their patented PhaseGuide technology.

Instead of a typical downward-firing conical pattern, PhaseGuide directional technology directs sound asymmetrically into the room, creating coverage found in no other loudspeaker.

Crestron’s Flex Pods provide flexible, high-quality audio for hybrid meetings and are scalable across many spaces. All components are designed to be used out of the box with no audio setup. No matter where the people are in the space, the solution can be moved to ensure optimal range and reach so everyone can hear and be heard clearly. In-room participants experience consistent audio levels, as volume levels are synchronized across all Crestron Flex Pods in the room. Users can easily mute, unmute, and adjust the speaker volume right on the Crestron Flex Pods, putting control where the people are.

boseprofessional.com

crestron.com

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Audio Spotlight AS-24iX Directional Speakers

Holosonics’ Audio Spotlight AS-24iX Directional Speakers create sound in a narrow beam precise enough for a single listener, eliminating unnecessary noise, sound bleed, or the need for headphones/ headsets—even in open, shared spaces.

Featuring a built-in amplifier/processor and flexible IO, the product is compatible with any line-level audio feed, and also includes an output for daisy chaining multiple speakers to extend the focused sound field for larger groups.

The flagship AS-24iX model conveniently replaces a standard 2-by-2-foot ceiling tile without any additional hardware, making it an excellent choice for conference rooms and collaboration spaces. Max output is 95dB SPL @ 1kHz, with a level reduction greater than 90 percent a single step outside the direct beam.

XPA Ultra FX Series

15 Parlé VBC 2800

16 Amplifiers

Biamp’s Parlé VBC 2800 is an all-in-one video and audio bar with upgraded camera optics ideal for all meeting spaces up to and including large rooms. The Parlé VBC 2800 features a dual-camera system with a 120-degree horizontal field of view and up to 16x digital zoom, offering an enhanced field of vision with AI auto framing that automatically switches between cameras for the best shot. It also features integrated Acoustic Echo Cancellation and industryleading AI Noise Reduction to suppress distracting sounds, utilizing a 27-microphone array with Biamp Beamtracking technology that actively tracks and intelligently mixes conversations from around the room.

Extron’s XPA Ultra FX Series Amplifiers play a key role in high-performance, multizone audio applications. The amplifiers offer exceptional flexibility and can be set up in a variety of configurations to support large systems with multiple speaker types.

XPA Ultra FX amplifiers feature Extron InstaWake+ technology, offering the ability to return to full power from standby in under 5ms. This ensures no part of the audio is ever cut off. With an appealing design, the fan-cooled enclosure can be part of a high-tech aesthetic or hidden away in a rack, without requiring adjacent empty space for ventilation. The XPA Ultra FX amplifier is the go-to solution for any multi-zone application requiring mixed speaker types and power levels.

biamp.com

extron.com

holosonics.com

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Modular 17 TruTile Wall Tiles

18 ListenWIFI

19 SONO

Legrand | AV’s TruTile Modular Wall Tiles transform spaces, improving acoustics and providing a quick and cost-effective way to enhance the appearance of the walls.

Organizations can mix and match TruTile Designs and play with tile orientation to create unique accent walls or bespoke wall art pieces that enhance interiors and occupants’ comfort. These 2-by-2-foot PET felt tiles are available in two dozen colors, boast a Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) of 0.30, contain up to 50 percent recycled plastic, are Declare Certified, and are Living Building Challenge Red List Free.

Listen Technologies’ ListenWIFI is an audio-over-Wi-Fi assistive listening solution that lets users access venue audio via their smartphones or dedicated receivers.

ListenWIFI features servers, software, LWR-1050 receivers (the first dedicated audio-over-Wi-Fi receiver to let venues offer guests a choice on how they wish to receive streamed audio), and LA-490 Beacons that provide location-based audio for a fully automated and seamless user experience. Beacon technology also ensures audio does not extend beyond a designated space, making it ideal for environments where confidentiality is critical. Applications for ListenWIFI include assistive listening, interpretation, video description, and settings with multiple screens.

Telycam’s SONO AI-enhanced wireless speakerphone is designed to improve the way participants experience audio during video conferences in personal workspaces, as well as small- and medium-sized rooms.

SONO incorporates a high-performance 1.75-inch speaker and eight advanced omni-directional microphones, with its direction-of-arrival recognition algorithm dynamically adjusting pickup towards the current speaker. A generous pickup distance of 5m ensures that everyone in the room can be heard. SONO’s unique AI-driven noisereduction algorithm continuously learns and adapts dynamically to filter out noise such as keyboards, chairs, air conditioning, and other environmental sounds while ensuring that voices remain natural and clear. Linking supports larger rooms.

legrandav.com

listentech.com

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Triad SA1

Snap One’s Triad SA1 is a powerful, Ryffenabled streaming amplifier offering premium features including an all-metal chassis, 2x200W power delivery, advanced integration support for Control4 and MoIP systems, presets for Triad and Episode speakers, and more. Triad SA1 empowers partners to integrate wireless audio throughout homes to support multizone systems, media room audio, and listening room solutions. With ARC/eARC capability, audio quality can be optimized to the maximum available quality for any audio format. The Ryff audio platform offers incredible audio quality and includes MQA support and network-based audio synchronization to prevent echoes and lag across zones.

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PAEXEARC Digital Audio Extender with eARC

Vanco’s PAEXEARC Digital Audio Extender with eARC transmits HDMI eARC/ARC digital audio signals up to 328 feet and S/PDIF signals up to 656 feet over a single Cat5e/6 cable. It supports bi-directional PoC, allowing power supply from either end, and features simultaneous SPDIF and HDMI outputs for a customized audio solution. With CEC pass-through in eARC/ARC mode, it enables integrated control of multiple devices.

Designed for reliable performance and compatibility with various audio systems, the PAEXEARC is ideal for enhancing audio distribution in meeting spaces and classrooms, ensuring high-quality sound and ease of control in large or complex setups.

vanco1.com

22 Razor Coastal Source’s Razor—spread across three sizes (the Razor 100, 200, and 300 Series) and eight models (satellite, 2.5-way, three-way, high-power three-way, stereo soundbar, LCR soundbar, line source, and quad-driver subwoofer)—is the first line of outdoor wall and hardscape speakers built with true HiFi performance in mind. Designed to provide superior performance in a slim and beautiful form factor, Razor modular speakers bring the sound Coastal Source is known for to the patio, where they deliver striking sound quality from a slim-profile speaker system that elegantly disappears into the background.

coastalsource.com

snapone.com

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SBX118F 1-by-18-inch Powered Arrayable Subwoofer

Eastern Acoustic Works’ SBX118F 1-by-18inch Powered Arrayable Subwoofer can be used to enhance any EAW full-range enclosure and is designed to rig directly to the popular NT Series of professional solution products. With SBX118F, the NT Series offers performance fit for highend installed applications and touring productions. It is a high-output, mid-size subwoofer system designed to provide low-frequency extension for any full-range system. It uses a 4-inch voice coil to ensure the best sonic performance, meeting expectations for venues of all sizes. It can be ground stacked, flown by itself, or arrayed with NTX210L. The SBX118F subwoofer rounds out EAW’s NT Series of professional solutions.

eaw.com

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4098 CORE Supercardioid Gooseneck Microphone

DPA’s 4098 CORE Supercardioid Gooseneck Microphone—featuring outstanding audio quality, wireless podium capabilities, and high rejection of radio frequency interference—is an ideal solution for instances when high speech intelligibility is paramount, such as in government facilities, where the spoken word must be simultaneously translated into multiple languages for dignitaries. Suited for podium micing, the 4098 can be paired with the TSM4001 Table Shock Mount or DM6000 Microphone base for various applications.

It can also be used with the DM6000 in a ceiling-mount design, as it attaches securely to most electrical back boxes and comes in balanced or unbalanced configurations.

dpamicrophones.com

Line 25 Robotic Source System PK Sound’s Robotic Line Source System comprises the T8 robotic line source element and T18 intelligent subwoofer.

This sub-compact line source range offers robotic control—a first in the industry.

Featuring PK’s patented multi-axis robotics, T8’s stunning output—with peak SPLs reaching 143.5dB—is precisely controlled down to 400Hz in both the vertical and horizontal planes, providing an unparalleled degree of flexibility and precision in system dispersion. Used in tandem with the T18, PK Cell modular touring rack, and PK .dynamics control software, the system delivers PK Sound’s patented remote, real-time, multiaxis robotic coverage control to a wider range of users and applications.

pksound.live

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