CONTENTS 24
Every Day Is Game Day
How ASG deployed a new facility for Pac-12 Networks in just a year.
People
Technology
20 Executive Q&A
32 NDI Reigns over AVoIP Protocols
RCI Custom’s Doug Macuch explains the cost
With NDI 6 on the horizon, supporters laud its
efficiencies of going with custom solutions.
success.
By Mark J. Pescatore
By James Careless
22 Executive Q&A
34 Videobars: Conferencing Simplified
Wharfedale Pro’s Peter Peck explains why the
Experts discuss the appeal and limitations of an
company prioritizes hands-on manufacturing.
all-in-one solution.
By Mark J. Pescatore
By Wayne Cavadi
Business
28
30
26 Historic Chapel, Modern Sound WPS helped Princeton University Chapel look to the future while maintain the aesthetics of yesteryear. By Wayne Cavadi
Viewpoint
28 Mitigating the Content Quality Mismatch
42 The Burden of Burnout
PAMA thinks it’s time for companies to turn old
stress effectively.
conference rooms into video production resources.
By Mel Baglio
By Mike Dias
30 Women in the Workforce Learn how to attract and retain talent in the Pro AV industry. By Carolyn Heinze
More than ever, Pro AV personnel need to manage
Departments 4 SYSTEMS CHECK 6 NEWS 18 NEWSMAKERS 40 NEW PRODUCTS
Vol. 31 No. 3 March 2024 Systems Contractor News (ISSN 1078-4993) is published monthly by Future US, Inc., 130 West 42nd Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10036-8002. Periodical postage paid at New York, NY and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to: SYSTEMS CONTRACTOR NEWS, P.O. Box 1051, Lowell, MA 01853. Subscribe online at www.MySCNews.com. Please allow 6-8 weeks for address changes to take effect. ©Copyright 2023 by Future US, Inc. PRINTED IN U.S.A.
avnetwork.com // March 2024 // SCN
3
®
SYSTEMS CHECK
ISE 2024 boasted record-high attendance, exhibitors, and show floor space.
avnetwork.com
MARCH 2024 VOL. 31 NO. 3 CONTENT
Content Director Mark J. Pescatore, Ph.D. mark.pescatore@futurenet.com Senior Content Manager Wayne Cavadi Contributors Mel Baglio, James Careless, Mike Dias, Peter Hansen, Carolyn Heinz Art Editor Rob Crossland Production Managers Nicole Schilling, Heather Tatrow A DV E R T I S I N G S A L E S
ISE 2024: Big Show Without Next Big Thing MARK J. PESCATORE Content Director
A
ttention, ISE attendees: Cleanup on aisle … well, every aisle. No, Integrated Systems Europe 2024 didn’t switch gears and start selling mops and buckets in Barcelona. But the show felt less like it was trying to dazzle
and more like it was focused on the details. Exhibitors weren’t actually cleaning up messes; instead, they were refining their solutions.
mark.pescatore@futurenet.com
It’s a safe bet that 2024 will not experience a Pro AV paradigm shift. You won’t see the likes of the widespread 4K adoption or, more recently, the sudden emergence of videoconferencing as an essential, everyday communications tool. But it might just be
facebook.com/ systemscontractor
remembered as the year where the industry took a moment. And then truly made things better. In other words, the show wasn’t about the Next Big Thing. Instead, it was focused on the little things. One thing that isn’t little is ISE itself. This show just keeps growing. According to
LINKEDIN linkedin.com/company/ systems-contractor-news
AVIXA and CEDIA, co-owners of ISE, this year was the most successful in the show’s 20-year history. There were a record-high 73,891 attendees, an increase of 27% over 2023, from 162 countries. The show also broke records with its highest number of exhibitors (1,408) and a show floor that was 30% larger than last year. And while ISE didn’t have the Next Big Thing, there was certainly plenty of big things
TWITTER twitter.com/scnmag
to see. It’s heartening to know AV professionals can still get wowed on the show floor. For example, LG literally stopped foot traffic with a 20-foot-high digital media art display, which combined stunning graphics with synchronized moving LED display tiles. Back to the little things. Joe Andrulis, EVP of corporate development for Biamp, acknowledged an intentional shift toward usability and scalability of the company’s solutions. It’s not the only company making a concerted effort toward improving existing solutions. Across the show floor, exhibitors spoke of tighter, simplified interfaces and product integration for end users, as well as easier ordering (read: fewer SKUs) for integrators. When the pandemic hit, there was a flurry of activity in Pro AV—at least until supply chain issues delayed or derailed so many projects. Perhaps it was a response to the corporate market reassessing its post-pandemic workflows and technology options that brought a different energy to ISE 2024. “In a way, customers took a breath last year,” offered Julian Phillips, managing director of XTG, the AVI-SPL Experience Technology Group. His team saw a lot of uncertainty in the corporate world in 2023, and many companies were simply not making forward-looking decisions. The other story, Phillips added, is that customers are now ready to move forward. C-level executives are learning that doing nothing isn’t an answer. Employee engagement is a real issue—and with the emergence of remote work, teams aren’t functioning in the same way. Through technology, AVI-SPL and other integrators will be working to help the corporate world build better environments and rebuild the concept of teams. ISE 2024 may have been about the little things, but the oncoming flurry of corporate technology investments promises to be anything but little. All that attention to detail represented across the show floor is about to start paying serious dividends for Pro AV.
4
SCN // March 2024 // avnetwork.com
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DN-300
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Full-bandwidth USB 2.0 support
DisplayNet also provides software-defined MultiViewer and Advanced Video Wall engines that power a wide range of applications without the expense and complexity of ancillary products. A highly intuitive web-based UI and API greatly simplifies setup and installation, as well as integration into third-party control systems. Contact us today to see how DisplayNet can move your next AV system into the future.
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Powered by © 2024 DVIGear, Inc.
NEWS
Brad Sousa
I
AVIXA Foundation Establishes Brad Sousa Impact Fund
n January, the AVIXA Foundation established the
“Brad joined AVI Systems more than 15 years ago
Brad Sousa Impact Fund to support the founda-
and was instrumental in elevating our industry and
tion’s work, with a key focus on developing AV
the work our employees do across industries and
and digital transformation professionals and their
around the world,” said Jeff Stoebner, CEO of AVI
understanding of each other’s overlapping needs.
Systems. “Establishing this fund in his name is a
Sousa, 62, passed away on Nov. 8. He was the CTO of AVI Systems and served on the AVIXA Board
fitting continuation of that work.” “We look forward to working with Brad’s family
of Directors. He had recently been elected by
and the Foundation Board to specifically identify
AVIXA’s global membership to serve as secretary-
programs and opportunities around the world which
treasurer, with intended ascendancy toward the
can benefit from the financial resources that this
chairman of the board. Sousa also served on the
effort will make available,” added Sarah Joyce,
board of the AVIXA Foundation. He was committed
executive director, AVIXA Foundation.
to making a difference in all his pursuits, both personal and professional.
More details on the Brad Sousa Impact Fund and how to contribute will be announced later this year.
NAB Show Accepting Entries for Sustainability Awards
AVI-SPL Launches Enterprise Managed Services F
A
or the second year, NAB Show is accepting entries for its Excellence in Sustainability Awards, which will recognize contributions
in media technology and production that dem-
VI-SPL has launched its Enterprise Managed
onstrate significant sustainable impact, as well
Services solution, which covers AV, digital
as foster economic and social development. The
signage, and UC technology throughout
deadline for entry submission is March 22.
the modern workplace—in rooms and the cloud.
AV and UC investments by improving technology
It covers the entire lifecycle of these technologies,
uptime and supporting employees.
with services including asset inventory, device
Key highlights of AVI-SPL’s Enterprise Managed
Nominations will be accepted from businesses and individuals working in the media technology and/or production industries according to the
monitoring, software and firmware upgrades, cloud
Services include simple deployment and comprehensive
category description and criteria. Nominees do not
administration, preventative maintenance, remote
support. The solution offers 24/7 remote support from
need to be NAB Show exhibitors to participate. The
incident and problem management, field dispatch
AVI-SPL’s Global Help Desk as well as local onsite
awards program is supported by AWS, which is
when needed, and analytics and reporting.
support in more than 60 countries. The service also
known for its commitment to reach net-zero carbon
seamlessly integrates with third-party calendaring,
emissions by 2040.
In a world where video communications fuel modern work, organizations increasingly rely on the availability and performance of these collaboration
ticketing, and manufacturer cloud solutions. “Our turnkey approach to Enterprise Managed
The Excellence in Sustainability Awards will include several categories, including four that are
solutions. However, IT professionals often face
Services ensures IT leaders can focus on strategic
new in 2024. Judged by an independent panel of
challenges with technology reliability and cite
initiatives, confident that their entire
experts, award winners will be chosen in each
concerns about IT talent scarcity. AVI-SPL’s
communications and collaboration technology
category based on the criteria defined for each
Enterprise Managed Services alleviates this burden,
domain will perform seamlessly,” said Tim Riek, EVP
category. Awards will be presented during a special
enabling IT leaders to accelerate the return on their
of technology solutions, AVI-SPL.
ceremony at NAB Show on April 14.
Legrand | AV Achieves Security Certification
explained Tim Troast, VP of technology and product strategy at Legrand | AV. “This certification
Legrand | AV passed certification for ISO/IEC
systems, and IT systems that are created at its R&D
ensures the security and quality of Legrand |
27001:2013, an international standard for
facilities in Fairfield, NJ, Draper, UT, and
AV solutions meet the standards required
information security management systems
Minnetonka, MN. The certification includes the
by IT decision-makers when an AV system
published by the International Organization for
company’s C2G, DaLite, Luxul, Middle Atlantic, and
will require network access.”
Standardization (ISO). This certification confirms the
Vaddio brands.
company achieved the rigorous standards for
“We have seen increased inquiries at both the
Legrand | AV’s certification was issued by one of the world’s leading bodies,
protection and security within the software and
dealer and end user level for details on our
Bureau Veritas, upon successfully
firmware used for its connected devices, embedded
cybersecurity process with connected product lines,”
completing the formal audit process. Tim Troast
6
SCN // March 2024 // avnetwork.com
NEWS
IPMX Reaches Major Milestone
PSNI Launches Global Service and Support Initiative
I
Advanced Media Workflow Association (AMWA), creators of NMOS, remain
Service and Support Network Operations Center
milestone in the development of the
committed to the collaborative effort,
(NOC) and Global Help Desk at ISE 2024. Powered by
Internet Protocol Media Experience
with the aim of announcing additional
Diversified’s Pulse, a tenured PSNI Certified Solution
(IPMX) standards during ISE 2024 in
significant developments soon. These
Provider (CSP), the Service and Support platform
Barcelona earlier this year. Conclud-
efforts underscore a continued dedication
delivers a global service solution with advanced
ing a rigorous VSF testing event held
to evolving IPMX into a fully realized,
remote monitoring, diagnostics, global help desk,
open standard that meets the diverse and
and onsite services.
n collaboration with the Alliance for
AIMS and VSF, as well as the
IP Media Solutions (AIMS), the Video
PSNI Global Alliance officially announced its Global
Services Forum (VSF) announced a
at the Matrox Video facility in Munich, where multiple manufacturers with
Samuel Recine
interconnected needs of the modern Pro
IPMX implementations validated core specifications, IPMX has now achieved a crucial phase
AV landscape.
The service partnership enables organizations to ensure security, stability, and longevity across their
“There is no question that IPMX is gaining
AV and IT operational landscapes. Combining PSNI’s
momentum in the Pro AV market,” said Samuel
global strength, the service provides deep expertise
The event marks the transition of many of the
Recine, VP, global strategic partnerships, Matrox
in networked technology with a proven track record
essential IPMX documents—encompassing critical
Video, and Pro AV Working Group chairperson for
of supporting highly visible, business-critical
aspects of audio and video transport, HDCP, control
AIMS. “The elevation of these documents from the VSF
operations worldwide to monitor, manage, report,
plane requirements, and system timing—from draft to
will only accelerate that trend—and that is an
and analyze the IoT landscape.
finalized specifications. This step not only underscores
enormously important milestone for IPMX and the Pro
“Our aim is to provide maximum uptime in
the collaborative effort behind IPMX but also signals a
AV industry as a whole. With these documents in their
system performance for enterprise customers,
new era of innovation and interoperability in the Pro
final form, IPMX can now be implemented by even
coupled with Tier 3 dispatch support through our
AV market.
more manufacturers, which is what is needed for a
more than 250 support locations worldwide. The
robust, open AV-over-IP ecosystem.”
PSNI supported resources will be scalable,
of maturity.
While the testing event heralds the release of several key IPMX specifications, a milestone in the
sustainable, and flexible,” said Steve Riley, PSNI’s
protocol’s development, the journey of IPMX toward
director of professional services, who was a driving
becoming a comprehensive solution for the Pro AV
force for the initiative.
market continues. Work is ongoing on aspects such as
The PSNI Service and Support NOC subscription
interoperable USB extension, profiles, and detailed
is available through its CSPs worldwide. Chris Miller,
testing requirements.
executive director of PSNI Global Alliance, sees the platform as a new dimension in how the Alliance
CTI Acquires Vistacom CTI, headquartered in St. Louis, MO, has acquired Vistacom of Allentown, PA. According to John Laughlin, CEO and president of CTI, Vistacom’s proven NOC and control room design and integration services mark a significant expansion to CTI’s portfolio. “I have long admired the outstanding work done by the team at Vistacom,” Laughlin said. “The people-focused culture that’s powered their success is a solid match for CTI. By bringing together our strengths, I am confident our combined team will continue to do amazing work
combines its strengths. “The addition of support
AVI Systems Expands Northeast Presence
A
Alliance is uniquely positioned to deliver Tier 1-3 services—from Help Desk to on-site dispatch— through the connected network of more than 250 licensed locations.”
together with AVI’s industry leadership makes a great combination. Not only will our employees benefit, but our clients gain access to AVI’s breadth of offerings, support, and global
VI Systems announced
capabilities.”
that New Jersey-based
“The Northeast region of the
Audio Visual Associates
U.S. is AVI System’s fastest growing
as we support client needs and expand access to
(AVA) will join AVI Systems as it
opportunities for our employees. I’m honored
32nd U.S. location. The majority of
that we’ve been entrusted with the next evolution
AVA employees will become employee
of a nearly 70-year-old family business.”
owners at AVI Systems when the transition
CTI serves customers nationwide, with 35
services ties it all together,” he explained. “The
is complete.
geography with strong demand from global customers,” added Jeff Stoebner, CEO at AVI Systems. “AVA resources are ready, set, go for rapid expansion, and the New Jersey facilities will compliment AVI’s
locations spread across the country, and
AVA specializes in the design, sale, service,
worldwide as a member of the PSNI Global
installation, and rental of AV solutions found in
Alliance.
corporate and hotel environments. Ed Susco,
AVI locations in Boston, New York City, and
founder of AVA, will serve AVI as managing director
Washington, DC, in 2023. AVI Systems will also
in New Jersey, continuing to offer the high-touch
continue to grow strategically in 2024, with new
boutique experience for which AVA is known.
locations in Phoenix and Washington, DC, as well as
“We are so excited about becoming part of AVI Systems,” said Susco. “Our 35-year history
8
SCN // March 2024 // avnetwork.com
fastest growing location in New York City.” The acquisition comes after announcing new
expansions in Dallas, San Francisco, and Sioux Falls, SD.
NEWS French said the upgrade became necessary because he needed more flexibility and the capacity to handle more inputs and especially more outputs than the previous console, which was installed in 2009 when the stadium opened. The new SSL S500m console is custom-configured with 48 faders in a 2.5-bay frame. French has set up three metering displays: one for inputs, one for outputs, and one for mix-minus feeds and various other signals. According to Mike Mason, regional vice president, Clair Global Integration, the control room was converted from CobraNet to Dante, and some AES3 A new SSL console has improved audio at AT&T Stadium during Dallas Cowboys football games and other events.
AT&T Stadium Upgrades Audio with SSL
A
connectivity was added to integrate with existing equipment. “Gary went from nine to 48 feeds to and from video,” he said. “We added a Dante link to the truck dock; SSL provided an HC Bridge SRC for Dante conversion. Now, Gary’s got a full 256 channels of Dante that he can send to and receive from the broadcast dock.” With such a busy events schedule, Pro Media worked to make the transition fast and painless. “We
T&T Stadium, home of the NFL’s Dallas
during the venue’s very busy yearlong calendar of
set the console up next door to the control room for
Cowboys, has significantly upgraded the
sports, entertainment, and corporate events.
about three weeks, and had it all completely
capabilities of its main audio control room
The control room is the hub through which all
connected, sitting on tables, so Gary could do all of the
with the installation of a Solid State Logic System
audio signals pass for almost every event. “This room
pre-programming,” Mason recalled. “SSL came in
T S500m console. The new system was supplied by
routes audio for the whole venue, to the bowl PA
and did the training and we got everything
Clair Global Integration’s Pro Media Audio Video
system, the X clubs, back-of-house, concessions, and
configured. The actual transition from the old console
division and integrated last summer in time for the
bathrooms, as well as broadcast feeds,” said Gary
to the System T only took two days. There was no
2023-24 NFL season. It is primarily used to mix and
French, head of audio for the Dallas Cowboys. “You
learning curve once we installed the SSL because it
route audio throughout the 80,000-seat stadium
name it, we route it through here.”
had already been set up for weeks before.”
NETGEAR Welcomes New CEO, Partners with Panasonic
W
ith the retirement of NETGEAR’s Patrick
The NETGEAR AV OS provides a template-based approach to switch configurations.
NETGEAR’s ongoing initiative to develop AV-over-IP solutions for the broadcast and Pro AV industries. KAIROS is an IT/IP Platform for live production that gives professionals the control to deliver content for broadcast, large screen displays, and live streams. experienced in a connected world, and I am all for the
KAIROS adds ST 2110 to its standard baseband and
next chapter of the NETGEAR story.”
streaming connectivity for I/O flexibility as well as
Prober is a seasoned business leader who has
content creation flexibility of its GPU/CPU processing.
focused on driving growth, transformation, and
Its layer-based interface enables a quick learning curve
innovation in his past roles. Previously, he served as
for content creation.
president of Life360, CEO at Tile (acquired by Life360),
NETGEAR M4250, M4300, M4350, and M4500 series
COO at GoPro, and SVP of digital publishing at
of managed switches were designed with an
Electronic Arts (EA).
AV-oriented interface. The NETGEAR AV OS provides a
C.S. Lo, who co-founded the company
“As an innovator and pioneer, NETGEAR is an
and served as CEO and chairman of the
admired and respected brand by both consumers and
simple AV-friendly, template-based approach to switch configurations, which enables integrators and
board, Charles (CJ) Prober was appointed to succeed
businesses at a time when connectivity matters more
installers to dive right into projects with the confidence
him as CEO. Prober is also joining NETGEAR’s board
than ever,” said Prober said. “I have built my career on
that all the network settings are correct for their
of directors. Lo is remaining as a strategic advisor to
delivering innovative and industry-leading products
desired workflows. This eliminates the steep learning
support a seamless leadership transition through July.
and services and am proud to join the NETGEAR team
curve and cumbersome setup normally associated with
“When Mark Merrill and I founded NETGEAR 28
to continue this path and to create value for all
network switch configurations.
years ago, the internet was beginning to show its
stakeholders, continuing the company’s
impact on the world,” said Lo. “We seized the
strong focus on innovation in the industry.”
process to help broadcast Pro AV engineers migrate
opportunity, and we’ve been innovating and
The company has also partnered with
from legacy workflows to IP workflows with more
leading the industry in the creation of advanced
Panasonic Connect to bring interoperability
confidence,” said Tod Musgrave, senior broadcast
networking technologies for homes and
with the Panasonic Connect KAIROS IT/IP
BDM at NETGEAR. “There is no better platform to
businesses around the world ever since. We’ve
platform for live production. The M4350
prove our interop capabilities than the Panasonic
pushed the boundaries of what can be
series ST 2110-capable switches are part of
KAIROS system.”
10
SCN // March 2024 // avnetwork.com
Charles (CJ) Prober
“NETGEAR has pioneered an easy configuration
NEWS
The new Barista Parlor in Indianapolis features a LEA Professional amplifier to drive its record playerbased sound system.
Barista Parlor Offers Handcrafted Coffee and Audio
A
t every Barista Parlor location, the reimag-
Laboratories, an ideal match as the integrator on the
702 (CS702), a
project as he specialized in custom, handcrafted
2-channel
technology that is as beautiful as it is functional.
amplifier with 700
Hazelwood turned to LEA Professional for the audio
watts per channel that
ined interior curates the perfect atmo-
technology that fits the unique set of needs of Barista
works with the LEA Cloud
sphere to accompany the specialty coffee.
Parlor. LEA Professional has an open API where he
platform for remote control and monitoring. He has
The Nashville, TN-based coffee chain’s newest
could develop equipment around its platform, allowing
also specified LEA Professional amplifiers for two
location is nestled inside the old Stutz factory in
Hazelwood to build a system that perfectly fits his and
locations in Nashville and one in Louisville, KY.
Indianapolis and delivers its music straight from the
Barista Parlor’s needs.
“The LEA Cloud service is a huge benefit to me and Barista Parlor. The fact that I can log in from here in
source—a classic record player. This unique method
“I worked with the LEA team directly, and they were
of entertainment required an equally unique sound
extremely accommodating in answering my questions
Nashville and troubleshoot issues or make adjustments
system for support. Barista Parlor turned to LEA
about development,” said Hazelwood. “The
for them if they need, it’s game-changing,” Hazelwood
Professional’s technology to carry the tune.
adaptability truly pushes the LEA amplifiers ahead. No
explained. “There’s very little that we can’t access
matter how specific my needs are, I know they’ll live up
remotely, and it saves our customers money in the long
to the task.”
run because we don’t have to dispatch the local
Barista Parlor favors a handmade approach to its furniture, lighting fixtures, and now, audio systems. This made Joseph Hazelwood, founder of Hazelwood
Hazelwood specified the Network Connect Series
technician, or we don’t have to drive up there.”
WatchHouse Brews Up AV/IT Solutions
R
ecent visitors to Central London have prob-
elaborate on the distinctive aesthetic of each location.
Epson 4K super-ultra-short-throw laser projector is
ably noticed WatchHouse, a new chain
Maintaining each House’s individuality may
used to display the digital menu onto a beautiful solid
of design-conscious cafés. Tateside, a
present a challenge when it comes to scalability—
marble wall,” said Cornish. “We used a 4K BrightSign
London-based integrator, has added digital signage,
but has instead proven to be an opportunity for the
player, as we love their reliability, and we used Embed
background music, and other AV/IT solutions across
Tateside team, which can showcase the versatility
Signage for our cloud-managed CMS for all remote
several of the chain’s 15 locations, and will support
of their skills and the diversity of the AV brands
content management and scheduling.”
the brand’s expansion moving forward, including the
they work with by providing bespoke solutions at
opening of new locations in the United States.
each House.
“WatchHouse sought a partner to handle both IT
Tateside not only designs and integrates the AV system for WatchHouse, but also provides a
For background audio, for example, Tateside
comprehensive solution covering passive and active
and AV aspects during the scaling of their
specified loudspeakers in various formats. “One
IT infrastructure and ongoing support. “Whilst the
operations,” recalls Jack Cornish, technical director at
example of the work we’re doing with WatchHouse is
backend stays the same, each House requires
Tateside. “We’re providing them with a complete
the Fenchurch Street branch, where we utilized Origin
something different, so we’re drawing up the plans
solution, from initial design through to
Acoustics discreet opening speakers and subwoofers
for each branch, organizing and fitting the Wi-Fi, the
implementation and ongoing support.”
to provide a great audio experience with minimal
switches, the routers, dealing with the ISP and the AV
visual impact,” Cornish explained. Tateside also
system,” Cornish noted. “After the installation is
Bermondsey House is its Roastery, which allows
Around the corner from the chain’s inaugural
installed compact Powersoft DSP amps with simple
complete, we’re then available to provide support in
WatchHouse to create unique local blends and
user control provided by on-wall control panels.
case of any issues and keep the system up to date
premium coffee across all its locations. WatchHouse
Some of the latest locations have included digital
through our Managed Services team.”
is recognized for the stylish interiors of its branches
projection for menu displays, which required careful
WatchHouse plans to open 500 Houses by 2033.
and works with interior designers to define and
placement of projectors within joinery or walls. “An
Tateside is currently working on active projects in several other London locations as well as New York
Each unique WatchHouse café features AV and IT solutions from London-based Tateside.
City, with additional Houses in the pipeline. “As WatchHouse grows, it’s reassuring to know that our technology needs are entirely taken care of by Tateside,” said Roland Horne, CEO and founder of WatchHouse. “Each of our Houses possesses a unique identity—and working with the Tateside team we’re able to retain the same language of our spaces whilst ensuring a consistent high-quality execution of the technology.”
12
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NEWS
Sony BRAVIA Displays Help Connect ReliaQuest Centers
R
eliaQuest, a cybersecurity company known for its GreyMatter security operations
for our teammates and customers.”
located in regions with natural bright light, the displays have no issues providing vibrant image quality. Sony’s BRAVIAs and other technologies have helped in enhancing the overall experience for their customers and teammates. ReliaQuest set up its displays so everything could be managed centrally,
ReliaQuest went with 55, 65, 75, 85, and 100-inch
which is very helpful for teammates, especially when
platform, has multiple U.S. locations, as
models of the Sony BRAVIA displays. The first phase
the displays run on a schedule to maximize the energy
well as spaces in Dublin, London, and Pune, India.
of the install went live in January 2023, and there was
efficiency and minimize wear. With BRAVIA’s screen
With new company spaces being created, ReliaQuest
a rolling go-live in its operating centers through
mirroring feature, employees work collaboratively by
decided to obtain new technology and equipment.
August 2023. “The high-quality, consistent, and
utilizing Microsoft Teams.
With guidance from AVI-SPL, its solutions provider
reliable experience that we have with the displays
and integrator for the new installations, 150 Sony
gives us peace of mind. We know that they’re going to
BRAVIA professional displays were selected to address
work every time and the images are crisp, they’re
ReliaQuest’s needs in its many operating centers.
clear, they’re colorful, and they’re stable,” said
“Our mission is to make security possible,
AVI-SPL installed 150 Sony BRAVIA displays to bring ReliaQuest meeting rooms and operating centers to life.
Marrow.
therefore, it’s critical that we have access to the latest
The displays are used broadly for playing videos
technology,” said Regina Marrow, ReliaQuest’s CIO
and running meetings in collaboration spaces, huddle
and EVP of operations. “On any given day, we are
rooms, conference rooms, common areas, and
hosting customers from large enterprise companies,
performance centers where the company holds its
and the technology that we are using, and our
trainings. They’re also used for multipurpose
operating centers, serve as the underpinnings of
collaborations with customers and teammates,
those interactions. So that technology must be
sitewide communications and company town halls,
reliable because it reflects our brand. This technology
and digital signage in the open areas of the operating
directly impacts the effectiveness of those
centers, such as cafés and reception spaces. Although
interactions because consistent experience is crucial
the company buildings having large windows and are
avnetwork.com // March 2024 // SCN
13
NEWS
Expect to See These ISE Product Trends at InfoComm By Mark J. Pescatore
American market in 2024. At ISE, Humly showed off two accessories for the compact Humly Booking Device,
I
which can be mounted on or below a working surface f you weren’t able to attend ISE 2024 in Barce-
and indicates on its LCD display (via green or red
lona earlier this year, you missed a lot. Luckily,
lighting) if the work area is available or occupied.
Biamp’s Evoko-branded solutions were among the several hotdesking options that were on display at ISE 2024.
An Emphasis on the Ecosystem
you’re going to get a chance to see much of it in
The first add-on provides PoE power to the Humly
June if you’re heading out to InfoComm 2024. There
Booking Device as well as a connection to control desk
Finally, it’s all about the ecosystem. Manufacturers are
are three product areas in particular that are gaining
positions, so adjustable desks can be automatically
working hard to make it easier to manage and monitor
momentum and should be on full display when the
positioned according to the user’s preferences. The
their equipment. With an ever-growing number of
show floor opens on June 12, though the first one is
second accessory, ideal for phone booth-styled meeting
cloud-based software solutions, there seems to be a
admittedly designed to be looked through.
spaces, is an external sensor that switches the device to
concerted effort across the industry to reduce truck rolls
“booked” mode (red) when someone enters the space.
and resolve problems remotely.
Now You See It
Biamp announced its acquisition of Evoko, a
Kramer, for example, unveiled Panta Rhei, its own
A recurring theme from display manufacturers this
Sweden-based manufacturer of scheduling systems,
cloud-based platform designed to manage complex
year was transparent signage. Companies like LG and
last year. Joe Andrulis, Biamp’s EVP of corporate
environments. Developed over two years, it manages
Samsung showcased their own versions of the
development, said hotdesking is an “emerging
the entire lifecycle of Kramer products, including setup
technology, which brings a new level of promotion to
category” for the company, and it’s being addressed
and management, monitor and support, analytics,
a retail display area. It’s not a brand-new concept,
through its Evoko-branded solutions. Andrulis praised
session management, AVoIP management, and
and photos don’t do the effect justice, but there’s a
the Evoko Liso room manager and Kleeo desk manager,
administration. Panta Rhei also serves as bridge
definite push toward making it more mainstream. I
but said the “magic” happens in the cloud-based Evoko
between Kramer and third-party products. Gilad Yron,
suspect you will see this eye-catching tool become
Desk Booking Software.
Kramer’s CEO, said the platform represents a
more commonplace in the near future, starting with
“significant shift” from hardware-based solutions to
several exhibits at InfoComm.
software.
Year of the Hotdesk
definition of the ecosystem. There’s a lot of talk these
Room scheduling is well established at this point, but
days about return-to-office, hybrid workflows, and
hotdesking … well, is it really taking off? Many
running office environments more efficiently. One
exhibitors think so; after all, hybrid workspaces aren’t
company that’s addressing these needs—and offering a
going away anytime soon, and flexible seating is a
potential recurring revenue opportunity for systems
problem that needs solving.
integrators—is Ask UMA. The company was established
Of course, some companies have a broader
You can expect to see plenty of solutions at InfoComm. For example, Anders Karlsson, CEO of Humly, said the company will be focused on the North
in 2016 and began delivering solutions in 2020. Kramer introduced Panta Rhei, its cloud-based product management platform.
As Stephen Milner, chief strategy officer, explained, the company provides a workplace management software platform designed to optimize spaces for efficiency and sustainability. It’s a modular solution that provides resource booking, visitor management, analytics, and more. Basically, Ask UMA provides data—a lot of data—that helps companies save money on things like space usage and utilities, while also tracking hybrid employee activities. The software is agnostic and can work with most leading platforms, and already has integrations with AMX, Jabra, Poly, Yealink, and others. Milner added that Ask UMA is usually backward compatible, so integrators can approach previous clients with the opportunity to improve operations and sustainability through the platform. The company is already active in 27 territories, including the United States, and has about 100,000 unique users. No confirmation yet on whether Ask UMA will be exhibiting at
Companies like LG are promoting transparent signage solutions for retail and other applications.
14
SCN // March 2024 // avnetwork.com
InfoComm—but if they make the trip, you might want to add a visit to your to-do list. Stephen Milner
Extron equipment powers the gaming experience for cadets with AV for simplified operation and ultra-low latency streaming.
NEWS
centralized hub, providing a variety of options for their use throughout the facility. For example, Extron technology allows the signals from player POV cameras and gaming computers to be presented as a single video signal, which feeds the video streaming and recording program.
Army West Point Esports Powers Up with Extron
E
“We are enthusiastic to provide AV for the Army West Point Esports Competition and Training Center,” said Casey Hall, chief marketing officer for Extron. “In addition to enhancing gameplay experiences for participants and audiences within the physical space, Extron AV is integral to how each source is represented
xtron is helping the Army West Point
Esports to the next level of collegiate competitive
on social media and live streaming broadcasts.”
Esports club upgrade its facility in prepara-
competition. That alone is a powerful statement as the
tion for its 2024 competitive season. Extron
world of collegiate esports is on the rise and poised to
competitive program that offers experiences in small
equipment powers the gaming experience, includ-
be a dynamic foundation for the future of esports.”
unit team management, communications, strategy,
ing the AV needed to simplify system operation and
The school’s esports program—located in the
Army West Point Esports is a cadet-led
critical thinking, building resilience, and the
management, flexible switching and distribution,
same facility as West Point’s simulation training,
demonstration of a strong winning spirit. Exposure to
ultra-low latency streaming, gameplay annotation,
the Computer Assisted Virtual Environment—
capabilities such as those demonstrated with this
and high-quality, impactful audio systems.
shares many of the same goals all cadets have:
Extron AV integration shows cadets what doing a job
strengthen the development of the winning spirit,
right looks like. Each cadet esports player will have
Academy strives to provide superior learning
fight for excellence, accomplish the mission, and
real-world experience through the esports program
experiences for cadets as they work to develop to
win. The Extron upgrade hopes to enhance that
on the roles of professional AV in a large application—
become leaders of character and to commission as
cadet experience through interactions with
and how well-implemented AV design can pay off.
Second Lieutenants for the United States Army,” said
competitive gaming.
This knowledge and experience can work at the
“Whenever possible, the United States Military
Victor Castro, director of Army West Point Esports. “Extron’s AV capabilities take Army West Point
At the West Point facility, Extron enables the seamless integration of all sources into a versatile
highest levels of command cells and training facilities, such as Mission Training Centers.
avnetwork.com // March 2024 // SCN
15
NEWS
Epson Projectors Part of Multimedia Performance at Historic Church
C
ommissioned by nonprofit arts organization FirstWorks, Boston-based artist collective MASARY Studios leveraged Epson laser projectors to create an immersive performance installation for visitors at the historic
Grace Church in Providence, RI. As part of Providence’s “Three Nights of Lights” public celebration last December, MASARY Studios delivered “Recursion and Release,” an immersive experience of illumination and sound. MASARY Studios is a transdisciplinary art studio that explores environments
The new BenQ Boards allow teachers to record, save, and share lessons.
Leadership Academy Network Upgrades Smart Boards with BenQ
T
o prepare students for the future, educators must foster creativity, effective communications, problem-solving skills, and collaboration. When the Leadership Academy Network (LAN) in Fort Worth, TX, decided to update
its old smart boards, selecting ones that aligned with its mission and fully prepared students became paramount. BenQ Boards proved to be an ideal fit. A pioneering partnership between Fort Worth Independent School District and Texas Wesleyan University, LAN aims to enhance learning outcomes at the district’s six PK-8 Leadership Academies. Its mission revolves around accelerating student
through site-specific installations using sound, light, interactivity, and
achievement through service and an unwavering commitment to excellence,
performance. “Recursion and Release” explored three environments at Grace
including its approach to technology upgrades.
Church through an acoustic vocal ensemble, digital audio manipulation, video
The factors that went into the school’s decision were simple but critical.
projection, and dynamic lighting. In harmony with the spatialized sound and light,
“Number one, is it good for students? And two, is it good for teachers?” explained
the immersive experience featured a new composition for vocal ensemble by Kitty
Alex Seltzer, executive director of operations, LAN. “My job is to make sure that
Brazelton.
teachers and students have exactly what they need. It was a yes to both questions
“Right in the middle of downtown Providence, Grace Church is an iconic building combining neo-Gothic and modern architectures, a true masterpiece for
when we evaluated the BenQ Boards.” BenQ Boards’ active learning features are the result of partnerships with schools
us to use as a canvas for this project,” said Samo Okerstrom-Lang, principal,
and continuous feedback from educators, including the EZ Write whiteboard and
MASARY Studios. “The pavilion we worked within at the church has a glass facade,
annotation tools that allow students to work hands-on with concepts. Educators
and we used the Epson projectors on the contemporary vaulted ceiling to create an
and students can draw, take screen grabs, and easily incorporate them into the
immersive artwork driven by choral singers. Three levels of vocal music were
lesson with additional annotations and graphics to further comprehension.
realized into visual images to perform and create a light and sound installation to inspire multiple senses.” MASARY Studios leveraged five Epson Pro Series 15,000-lumen, 3LCD laser
The smart board can record, save, and share lessons easily. Teachers simply tap the record button on the onscreen menu to create tutorials on the fly. These can be saved to the network, cloud (such as Google Classroom), or any connected storage
projectors with 4K Enhancement Technology2 to create the installation. “The
for students to refer back to later. To drive collaboration opportunities, multiple
Epson laser projector technology gave us the brightness and high-quality images
students can work at the smart board simultaneously.
we needed to make a lasting impression for visitors,” said Okerstrom-Lang.
The BenQ Boards are also providing educators at LAN with what they need do
“When working within a historic building like Grace Church—that wasn’t designed
their jobs better. For example, they can use the smart board’s InstaShare wireless
for the modern technologies we have today—we rely on the flexibility of the
presentation system to foster stronger connections with students by allowing them
technology to create impactful images within tight space constraints. Epson offers
to move around the room as they teach, as well as invite collaboration by allowing
projector frames and lens options for a variety of ranges that make our installation
students to share to the screen from their own device.
seamless.” “We were thrilled to welcome well over 1,000 people to Grace Church through
Plus, educators can get started using the boards right away from any BenQ Board on campus. With a swipe of their personalized NFC card, educators can log into any
this magical event,” said Rev. Canon Jonathan Huyck, rector, Grace Church
BenQ Board instantly. All their settings, files, and apps are ready for them, and they
Providence. “As rector of the parish for the last 14 years, I have never seen our
have access to their chosen cloud service. This helps streamline content sharing by
pavilion more creatively used, and it was wonderful to see the church host such a
allowing them to pull up lessons stored anywhere, or save them, without being
joyful gathering in this holiday season.”
connected to a laptop. BenQ Boards natively integrate with leading apps, such as Kahoot, ANTON, and Genially, which are ready at login.
Epson projectors helped create an immersive experience at the historic Grace Church.
With the implementation of BenQ Boards, the new school year at LAN kicked off strong for students and teachers. “We’re in a digital and interactive age where there can’t be any walls around access or learning,” added Seltzer. “BenQ Boards provide an additional layer of interactivity and connectivity across campuses.”
PHOTO BY MISHA BARSHTEYN
New BenQ Boards have been installed in six Leadership Academies in the Fort Worth Independent School District.
16
SCN // March 2024 // avnetwork.com
NEWS the old year. Long-standing
Pro AV Ball Is Rolling in 2024 By Peter Hansen
W
The AV Employment Index (AVI-E) is off to a
issues of supply and labor force
modestly less positive start than the AVI-S. At 57.1, this
continue to be a thorn in the side
January reading is roughly in line with the 57.8 observed
of many businesses—though we
in December. However, this marks the third
stress that things are much
consecutive month with a sub-one-point change, but
better than at this time last year.
the trend is downward since all changes have been
Improvement in supply also translates to positivity in
negative. In addition, the 57.1 observed in January is
the index.
below the 2023 average level of 58.2. That said, as
While some data suggests continuity between 2023
covered previously, 2023 AVI-E numbers were higher
and 2024, our data on the top issues for Pro AV show
than expected based on in-period sales growth since
several positive shifts. Since September 2022, we have
companies were still boosting staffing levels to catch
asked respondents to identify their most significant
up with the 2022 revenue boom. Going forward, if the
business challenge over the last month. January was
AVI-S can maintain its level of around 60 or 61, we
the first month where “We have not had any
would expect the AVI-E to increase to 58 or 59.
significant challenges” was the top response (18%).
In the wider economy, the news is better. U.S.
A second noteworthy shift was in “Rising costs/
employment data for January again showed surprising
inflation.” Over the life of the index, this issue has
robustness, with 353,000 jobs added alongside a 4.5%
hile 2023 was a steady, unspectacular
ranged in mid to high in the rankings, reliably below
increase in average wage (well above inflation). This is a
year that saw the AV Sales Index (AVI-
“Supply issues” but often near other high-ranking
strong indicator of U.S. economic health and should
S) average 58.8, 2024 is off to a better
categories such as “Hiring/retention” and
support confidence that recession is unlikely.
start, with the January AVI-S measuring 60.7. This
“Recession/business cycle.” But in a sign of the
is almost exactly the level the AVI-S averaged back
turning times, it was by far the lowest of our major
monthly survey of the AVIXA Insights Community, a
in 2017 (60.6). While 60.7 is still not a spectacular
categories at 8% in January. The next lowest was
research community of industry members that tracks
level, it’s also a positive one and hopefully a harbin-
“Supply issues” at 12%.
business trends in commercial AV. For more
ger of a healthier 2024 for our industry. On a micro level, comments from survey respondents show that the new year looks a bit like
Times have changed in Pro AV. And that change is
The Pro AV Business Index report is derived from a
information about joining the AVIXA Insights
likely to continue. We strongly expect these categories
Community, visit www.avixa.org/AVIP.
to continue to fall throughout 2024.
Peter Hansen is an economist at AVIXA.
PEOPLE NEWSMAKERS
AVI Systems Promotes Four to Leadership Roles
Michael Safranski
ASTERA has created a new
strengthened its
Product Management
distribution in Mexico by
Department, which will be led by newly appointed head of product
REPRESENTACIONES DE
management, BEN DÍAZ. Díaz
AUDIO to develop the brand’s presence in the
brings more than two decades of
MI retail, AV, and home audio markets.
experience in product
Representaciones de Audio will work alongside
four industry veterans to
management, business development, sales, technical
existing distributor Video Audio
new roles.
marketing, and user experience design. His role as
Representaciones e Ingeniería (VARI), which
senior product manager at ARRI resulted in the
will continue to supply Genelec solutions to
promoted to chief revenue
creation of the SkyPanel X. Before that, he served as
Mexico’s professional audio community.
officer. After serving as EVP
head of product management for SGM Light. MIDWICH GROUP has acquired THE FARM,
of global sales, his new role not only oversees the sales
JIM SCHANZ has joined BOSE
joining forces with the group’s U.S. operation,
engine that drives AVI’s
PROFESSIONAL as VP of sales for
Starin Marketing, to expand its geographical
growth, he will also include
the Americas. Schanz brings more
footprint and enhance its current levels of
developing the company’s
than 25 years of Pro AV experience
customer and manufacturer support. The Farm
new vertical market teams in
in sales and marketing. In his
CEO and president John Hood said the move
federal and education.
most recent role as VP of global
enables his company to invest in building and
sales at Shure, he developed and
deepening services—starting with current
Mastro will continue to serve
Jim Schanz
as the overall leader of global
executed a global strategy for integrated systems,
sales teams for GPA.
leveraging his deep understanding of the customer and
partners Q-SYS and Visionary Solutions.
trends in the evolving AV industry. In his new role,
who joined AVI Systems in
Schanz will be responsible for leading the sales
customers from pre-sales conceptual design to
2004 and was most recently
strategy across the Americas.
post-sale commissioning. Reconnu has more than 30
VP of services operations—
years of IT and networking experience, including 19
was promoted to VP,
MIKE MALY has joined CADON
years at Cisco in various roles and network manager
managed services. In his new
TECHNICAL SALES COMPANY as
for Seattle Children’s Hospital.
role, Safranski will create
territory manager. His primary
alignment and scalability of
responsibilities will be managing
HIVE has appointed NIGEL
the company’s expanding
product information, education,
SADLER to the role of sales
managed services offerings.
sales, and service for customers
director. Sadler, who began his
located in Western Missouri,
career as a teacher, entered the
After serving Keith Yandell
appointing
Ben Díaz
MICHAEL SAFRANSKI—
Zach Valigura
Rep Report
AVI SYSTEMS has promoted
DON MASTRO was
Don Mastro
GENELEC has
professionally in various AV
Mike Maley
Western Iowa, and the states of Nebraska and Kansas.
Pro AV industry as a sales
industry roles since 2010, ZACH VALIGURA joined
Maly has more than 17 years of experience in
AVI Systems in 2021 as enterprise delivery
installation, system design and sales, live event
Nigel Sadler
manager. Now, as VP of integration and delivery,
production, and project commissioning in multiple
at ETC Europe and DHA. In his role, Sadler will act as a
Valigura oversees AVI’s technical services team
market verticals.
global ambassador for the company and is responsible
across the United States, bringing cohesive
manager at M&M Lighting in 1992 before later taking on roles
for setting up worldwide distribution channels and
strategy to all integration services and projects.
D&B AUDIOTECHNIK welcomed
routes to market for Hive’s growing portfolio of media
First joining AVI in 2003, KEITH YANDELL
MARCO BAUMGÄRTNER to the
playback solutions.
has served as a design engineer, technical
role of territory manager for the
services manager, and director of engineering.
Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.
MACK MCLAUGHLIN has joined
Since 2019, he has led the company’s AV
Baumgärtner has been with d&b
IKAN as its new chief revenue
since 2017, and previously held
officer. McLaughlin brings a
the position of director corporate
wealth of experience from his
development. In his new role, he
tenure at FX Design Group, where
solutions practice team and is now the VP of innovation. In this new role, Yandell will lead AVI’s practice areas, support complex client
Marco Baumgärtner
engagements, and develop AVI’s roadmap of
will take responsibility for the company’s subsidiary
future innovations to be brought to market.
in Singapore as managing director and oversee
Mack McLaughlin
operations across Southeast Asia, South Korea,
extends across scenic and lighting design, augmented
Australia, New Zealand, and Japan.
by work in virtual and AR/XR environments. At Ikan,
RANDY HALL has been elevated to
Randy Hall
creative officer. His expertise
McLaughlin will lead sales and marketing efforts.
president at ALARMAX. Working
With multiple high-level
with AlarMax for more than a
certifications under his belt, ROB
MATT SCHWARTZ has signed on
decade, Hall has more than 35
RECONNU has been promoted to
as director of sales and business
years of experience in the security,
director of technical services,
development at LOWELL
surveillance, and AV technology
network technologies, for
MANUFACTURING. Schwartz has
sectors. He is overseeing key
EXTRON. His team, the Network
more than 25 years in systems
initiatives for vendor innovation and dealer success in
Rob Reconnu
the evolving custom integration landscape.
consists of expert network engineers that assist
18
he served as CEO and chief
SCN // March 2024 // avnetwork.com
Technologies Support Group,
integration, working with several Matt Schwartz
known integration firms as well
NEWSMAKERS PEOPLE
as his own company. His approach will guide Lowell’s
director of education sales in
MIKE JORDAN has joined RTI as
internal and independent sales teams in representing
North America. VanTreese joined
chief product officer. In this new
the Lowell brand to customers as well as the
PPDS in September 2021 as
role, Jordan will oversee product
consultant community throughout the United States.
education sales manager. In his
development activities to deliver
new role, he will lead and
RTI products and solutions to
As the new MAXHUB sales
advance the team’s education
customers. Jordan has more than
manager UKI, JAMES JEPSON
Patrick VanTreese
will be responsible for the further
identifying new business opportunities, partnerships,
industry, previously serving as SVP of products at
expansion of the company in the
relationships, and revenue streams.
Snap One. Prior to Snap One, he held a similar role at
strategy in North America,
United Kingdom and Ireland.
Mike Jordan
12 years of leadership in the
Core Brands.
With Jepson, MAXHUB has gained
PREMIUM AUDIO COMPANY
an experienced AV professional
(PAC) has promoted VINCENT
CRAIG SHOLDER has joined the
for its sales team. He started his career in the IT
BONACORSI to COO. Bonacorsi
SNA DISPLAYS sales division. He
services industry in 2009, before joining ViewSonic in
has been an integral part of PAC’s
is primarily responsible for
2017 as business development manager. Further roles
growth and success since 2007.
managing accounts in the
followed at Northamber AV and Sound Technology.
With 16 years of global finance
Western United States. A
James Jepson
Vincent Bonacorsi
and market development
seasoned executive in the
Lighting industry professional
experience, Bonacorsi will guide operational efficiency
Craig Sholder
KOY NEMINATHAN, who joined
for a diverse portfolio of premium audio brands
display industry, Sholder also supports SNA Displays’
Elation as director of business
including Klipsch, Onkyo, Pioneer, Integra, and Jamo.
Preferred Partner channel program. Previously,
development in May 2023, has
commercial AV and digital
Sholder was VP of sales and later EVP of business
now transitioned to a business
PRYSM SYSTEMS has appointed
development position with
FRANK DEMARTIN as head of
OBSIDIAN CONTROL SYSTEMS,
product marketing. In this role,
On Jan. 1, TOA ELECTRONICS
the company’s lighting control brand. Before joining
DeMartin will strengthen the
appointed YUMA KAWAI
Elation, the industry veteran served as sales director
company’s market strategy,
president and CEO. Kawai
at lighting console manufacturer Avolites, where he
support new product
previously served as president
development, drive product
and CEO of TOA Corporation’s
Koy Neminathan
development at Christie.
worked for more than 23 years in sales and business
Frank DeMartin
development. Neminathan is now focused on the
positioning, and broaden business
Obsidian range of lighting control and data
relationships. With more than 20 years of industry
Yuma Kawai
distribution products.
experience, DeMartin has been responsible for
as CTO of TOA Electronics last year and worked closely
accelerating revenue growth and has played an
with his predecessor, now former president Hiro
PPDS has promoted experienced AV/IT education
integral role in developing new product lines and
Omura, throughout the year to foster a smooth
specialist, PATRICK VANTREESE, to the role of
businesses for Mitsubishi, Sony, Sharp, and Samsung.
transfer of leadership in the company.
Shure Expands Spectrum and Regulatory Affairs Team SHURE has hired two senior managers of global regulatory policy: GUILLAUME MASCOT, based in Paris, and MARTIN BROCK, based in London. With nearly 20 years of leadership experience in government and public affairs within multinational telecommunications companies, Mascot will bring Guillaume Mascot
his knowledge of the European and Asia-Pacific markets to the development of Shure’s institutional strategy. In the French market, Mascot will be responsible for building sustainable strategic relationships with public decisionmakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders. Brock will support spectrum issues in the United Kingdom, Europe, and India, as well as cybersecurity and AI
Martin Brock
issues in the United States, United Kingdom, and India. He
has 20 years of operational and policy experience at U.K. regulator Ofcom, where he led the development of spectrum policy for program making and special events (PMSE) and served for several years as secretary to FM PT51, the European Conference of Postal and Telecommunications Administrations’ (CEPT) project team for PMSE frequency management.
avnetwork.com // March 2024 // SCN
19
Canadian subsidiary, TOA Canada Corporation. He came on board
PEOPLE EXECUTIVE Q&A
What’s It Worth? RCI Custom CEO Explains Cost Efficiencies of Custom Panels and More By Mark J. Pescatore
Doug Macuch
Philadelphia Phillies in the playoffs and the Texas
Position: President and CEO
Rangers during their World Series run this year—
Company: RCI Custom
knowing that the broadcasts of both teams were
Overtime: When not working or traveling for business,
passing through panels we’d manufactured. Same
I’m usually hanging with family. When I’m not with
thing with Super Bowl LIV at Hard Rock Stadium in
family, I still play drums with some fantastic musicians
Miami, or any of the many other sports venues that
in the Baltimore/DC area.
broadcast through RCI Custom Products. Studio SCN: What made you decide to open RCI Custom back in 1991?
builds for big name artists are always interesting, too. If I have to pick a recent favorite, it would be
of him already. PanelBuilder was the answer. It allowed
Doug Macuch: Well, I didn’t really “open” the
designing and creating large, tamper-resistant
users to easily drag and drop components on a panel
company as much as I recognized a great opportunity.
tabletop turrets and security-level, pole-mounted
and get a price in real time—along with a drawing or
I was actually working for a company called RCI
card readers for a dealer working within the prison
spec sheet for most basic panel types—in less time
Systems. We did design, installation, live sound, and
system down south. The project was very complex and
than it takes to even request a quote from an estimator.
production. The owner of the company, Jay Kingery,
involved, and was very collaborative in nature.
and his chief engineer, George Saur, were working
Working with customers and consultants to solve
over the years. Input and suggestions from our
with Jeff Loether at Marriott on design and build
problems that can’t be solved with an off-the-shelf
customers and consultants have driven continual
activity for hotels around the globe. That process
solution is really rewarding.
improvement of the app. We regularly add new
included designing and manufacturing the standard
It has evolved into a much more sophisticated app
functionality, panels, and sub-assemblies, and
wall plates and rack panels used in ballrooms, some
SCN: You’ve got custom Pro AV solutions in several
manage our ever-growing library of connectors and
patch bays, press mults, and some signal processing
verticals, but what markets are keeping you busiest
component parts as customer requirements develop. It
equipment that was used in each installation.
these days?
has become much bigger than when it first launched in
DM: The strongest markets for us have been education,
2002. Users love that they can get a DWG drawing and
could buy these items that I approached Jay with the
sporting venues, and hospitality. Casinos and gaming
budgetary number for use in their internal CAD
idea of creating a separate manufacturing division to
in general seem to be strong as well, but there is
drawings, while we manage the parts library. It’s been
sell our own products. At that time, connectivity
opportunity everywhere. IT, marine, and aircraft
a great tool for everybody, even our competitors.
panels were basically left to the integrator’s discretion.
applications are abundant. There are very few
They would source the metal, cut the holes, grain the
limitations with custom work.
Enough subcontract installers began asking if they
raw metal, paint or plate them, get engraving, and buy
SCN: What are some important considerations for a customer who needs to design an AV equipment
the connectors. As you can imagine, there was very
SCN: We know you do custom work, but you’ve got
rack?
little in the way of standards or consistency. We simply
some off-the-shelf components available, too. What
DM: Space, ventilation, and wire management. Do you
provided a service: the ability to design and
are some of your more popular in-stock items?
want your blank panels to match your rack finish, or
manufacture connectivity solutions, and deliver the
DM: The past year, standard items that grew in
match your custom panels? Tie bars or lacing panels for
product ready for install. It worked out pretty well.
popularity included LED logo panels and rack power
wire management? And do you plan to add your
strips, which we customize with company logo and
corporate brand/service info to the rack via a logo panel
SCN: When people hear “custom,” they think
corporate brand. It’s an amazingly eye-catching way to
or logo power supply?
expensive. How reasonable are custom solutions for
advertise. NEMA box enclosures with doors have also
Pro AV projects?
become very popular, as consultants and integrators
SCN: We’ve all dealt with “spaghetti” behind
DM: Not surprisingly, I think custom is very
seek to combine as much necessary connectivity as is
equipment racks. How does RCI Custom clean up
reasonable. It really comes down to value. If we can
reasonable into one designated space. Smaller sizes
wiring issues, and what advice can you give to help
save a business the time and expense of the panel
have a single customizable panel inside to populate,
others minimize the mess?
process, what is that worth? We are a company
while larger units come with rack rail and can be fitted
DM: Well, obviously planning and wire management
dedicated to making custom panels, and we can
in a modular fashion. Finally, trim kits are a “stock”
are critical. Organization and execution of wiring
provide all the efficiencies associated with that that
item that still need to be custom configured for each
racks is critical for smooth installations, operation,
most integrators don’t have.
application. Most video walls have exposed edges after
serviceability, and longevity of a project. Proper use of
I would suggest that with skilled human resources
install, so a trim kit is a great way to professionally
lacing panels and tie bars for lacing and harnessing of
and time at such a premium these days, engineers,
dress up the edges, as well as hide wiring and lights
internal wiring down the sides of a racks with
project managers, purchasing managers, and install
that blink behind the monitors.
common separation between high and low impedance
techs have more important things to do than manage
signals and power should always be of high
the panel process. Whether it is RCI or some other
SCN: How has your PanelBuilder SE design tool
importance. When practical, pre-wiring racks in the
company, it has to be less costly and more efficient for
developed over the years, and how does it help your
shop using screw terminal and other connectivity
the integrator to buy the finished product than to
customers?
panels to aid in field termination is a big advantage.
manage the manufacturing process.
DM: Great question. That was an idea that came about
This allows for a more controlled work environment,
in the late 90s. We needed a very basic and easy way to
as well as pre-testing of the system before
SCN: What is one of your favorite recent jobs?
allow customers to get a quick drawing and budgetary
installation. It also minimizes potential mistakes,
DM: There are so many interesting projects, it’s hard
number for commonly used panels without having to
skilled labor, time on site, and simplifies equipment
to single one out. It was awesome watching the
wait for an estimator who might have 10 RFQs in front
upgrades and changes in the future.
20
SCN // March 2024 // avnetwork.com
PEOPLE EXECUTIVE Q&A
Peter Peck Position: Marketing Manager Company: Wharfedale Pro
The WLA-210XP line array element features EVO-Fold waveguide technology.
Quality Is Under Control Peck: Wharfedale Pro Prioritizes Hands-On Manufacturing for Customer Satisfaction SCN: When I think Wharfedale Pro, I think
SCN: Immersive audio is a popular buzzword these
speakers—but you also sell microphones. Are your
days. How difficult is it to design immersive audio
mics just made for music, or are they gaining interest
systems?
SCN: How long have you been with this company,
in corporate and education environments?
PP: For this question, let’s check in with Alex Lane,
and what are your responsibilities?
PP: As a brand, it is important for us to always
our applications and solutions manager, who deals
Peter Peck: I have been with Wharfedale Pro for
remember what we are good at. Our philosophy for all
with this on a daily basis. Alex said, “Speaking purely
eight years. My main responsibility is simply to
products has always been to manufacture durable,
on a loudspeaker/amplification basis, it’s not so
“make it easy.” Regardless of the marketing manager
easy-to-repair, and value-for-money solutions. This
difficult, but it can be costly. Luckily, there are some
title, the critical responsibility is to ensure that we
also applies to our microphones. Customers use our DM
great software tools in immersive audio now that can
make everything we do easy for the channel. Our
series of dynamic mics in the most extreme conditions
compensate for speaker position, allowing flexibility
distributors, dealers, and customers have busy lives
and, as a result, we have built a strong reputation for
in system design and architectural limitations.
and often complex businesses—so, at every point in
general-purpose mics that just work for any occasion.
Simply put, the selection of the correct speaker, DSP,
By Mark J. Pescatore
the process, we need to deliver communications,
and amplification electronics is the key. Coaxial
products, and solutions which simplify the journey
SCN: What makes your IMPACT-X Series of
speakers like our GPL series provide a fantastic polar
from product concept to completed project.
loudspeakers and subwoofers unique?
pattern and lend themselves well to spatial audio.
PP: As part of the “make this easy” process I
With this, combined with multichannel DSP
SCN: There have been a lot of changes in audio
mentioned above, we have streamlined our portfolio to
amplifiers and audio over Ethernet (our DP-N range,
technology over the past quarter of a century.
be a good/better/best offering. IMPACT-X is our “good”
for example), you can remove a lot of cable spaghetti,
What do you think have been some of the most
series of passive loudspeakers designed for budget-
resulting in reduced costs in copper and a value-for-
significant?
conscious, entry-level applications. Often, competitive
money DSP/amp platform.”
PP: Of course, we are all aware of the technological
entry-level or budget product is manufactured in
advancements that have happened, such as the
third-party OEM factories using common components.
SCN: Each bar or club is different, of course, but what
growth of the line array, the continued
However, at Wharfedale Pro, we simply don’t do that.
are some of the common audio challenges in these
improvements of amplification efficiency, and the
IMPACT-X is manufactured in our own dedicated
environments?
creation of single cable networked solutions.
factory using our own staff, our own machinery, and
PP: Architecture, budget, application, acoustics, and
However, the most significant changes in my view
our own drivers, which are also made in-house. This
many other factors come into it. It’s always key to
revolve around the customer experience. Here there
means that we are in control of the product quality so
properly assess the specific clients’ goals and
are two key changes. First is product reliability. In
that the entry-level customer is not disappointed.
limitations to find the best possible solution. Yes, every
today’s world, the product must be reliable and
bar and every club are different, but the most common
(worst case) spare parts must be available globally.
SCN: How does your EVO-Fold waveguide
challenge is to get the clear requirements and
Quality of service has significantly improved over
technology improve your speaker performance?
expectations for the project. In our face-to-face training
the 25 years. Second is the expectation of sonic
PP: Our EVOFold waveguide has been meticulously
seminars for our global distribution partners, a big focus
quality from the audience. We all enjoy high-
(some might say obsessively) designed by Remo
is on communication. Asking the right questions can
quality audio at home and in the car, so the audience
Orsoni, our R&D director. EVO-Fold reduces the usual
save time and help ensure a successful project.
also expects high-quality audio in the café or at the
phase issues that traditional two-way line arrays have
gig. The audience expects to be impressed with
due to them having the drive units physically some
SCN: How is Wharfedale Pro celebrating its 25th
today’s quality.
distance apart in the array. The EVO-Fold horn
anniversary?
combines a unique folded and manifold design. The
PP: We’ve been thinking about how to celebrate this
SCN: How does AI figure into Wharfedale Pro’s
most advanced FEM technology has been used to
anniversary for … 25 years! What has made Wharfedale
product development?
create this. The high-mid energy exits produce a
Pro so successful over those years is the enthusiasm and
PP: At this moment, the reality is that AI is not a
uniphasic sound in the widest range of frequencies.
support of our business partners and our loyal
critical tool for us internally. It certainly didn’t help
And visually, the detail of the EVOFold waveguide is a
customers. We’re therefore planning an event in Q4
at all with this interview! Of course, let’s see how it
work of art. In the end, EVOFold delivers smooth
where we will have the chance to celebrate with music
plays out into the future.
frequency dispersion.
and entertainment with our partners.
22
SCN // March 2024 // avnetwork.com
BUSINESS LIVE PRODUCTION The new broadcast studios for Pac-12 Networks include a studio with dedicated control room for halftime shows and other productions.
project manager, was the overall project manager, responsible for delivering all aspects of the project to Pac-12, while Mike Surman, senior broadcast engineer, co-led the overall system design effort. It was also necessary to make additions to ASG’s engineering team to move fast. This led to the recruitment of Nik Kumar, ASG technology specialist, who co-led the overall system design effort alongside Surman. This included the ST 2110 integration, for which they collaborated with Steve Young, ASG’s head of systems design. Young noted that the need for a high level of adaptability in Pac-12’s systems architecture was due to changes that were being made to the broadcaster’s operational requirements after the 2023-2024 season. “The IP-based ST 2110 solution empowers Pac-12 with significantly more flexibility to adapt to future operational requirements without having to redesign the core systems,” he said. In other words, ST 2110 addressed both immediate and future needs.
Every Day Is Game Day How ASG Deployed a New Facility for Pac-12 Networks in Just a Year
Pre-Builds and Priorities The facility is loaded with gear, including Grass Valley K-Frame production switchers, Ross XPression graphics, Evertz DreamCatcher Production Suite and replay servers, Quantum storage systems, High Tech Furnishings furniture, Middle Atlantic racks, and much more. Because of the tight project timeline, ASG opted to prototype as many solutions as possible prior to deploying them. The firm built a lab in the Bishop Ranch location for this purpose, enabling both ASG and Pac-12
By Carolyn Heinze
O
ASG has been working with Pac-12 since the
team members to collaborate in person in real time.
construction of its original facility 12 years ago. “It was
“When you have a new technology [like ST 2110],
pretty revolutionary what they were doing at the time,
you want to be able to lab as much of it as you can,” Van
riginally located in San Francisco, Pac-12
this concept of taking and backhauling all of the
Hoy said. “When you’re in a highly constrained
Networks recently moved its broadcast
contributions from the venues to a central location—
timeline, you want as few surprises at the end as
studios to the Bishop Ranch office park in
doing all the production that normally gets done for
possible.” This exercise wasn’t easy due to continued
nearby San Ramon, CA. It’s in this 42,000-square-
sports in a truck,” said Dave Van Hoy, president of
supply chain disruption. Kumar and Young drove the lab
foot, SMPTE ST 2110-compliant space that operators
ASG. “[Doing this] in a fixed facility was pretty smart
effort, with Garrick Huey, ASG’s regional sales leader,
will now oversee the production and broadcast of
and cost-effective, as it turned out.”
more than 850 live sporting events each year. entertainment, and broadcast engineering solutions
ASG began the design of the new facility in Summer
firm headquartered in Emeryville, CA, oversaw the
2022. The firm pitched a time and materials (T&M)
Software-Defined Approach
design and build for the entire facility, which includes
model, in addition to a cost-plus approach, in respect
At the heart of the software-defined control room
one television studio, five production control rooms,
of the broadcaster’s defined budget. This was the best
is, as the term suggests, a computer running
four software-defined production control rooms, five
pricing approach considering the speed at which the
software. ASG president Dave Van Hoy explained
audio control rooms, a graphics bullpen, and a replay
project had to be executed.
that this design approach enables broadcast
Advanced Systems Group (ASG), a digital media,
room. In partnership with Randy Sparks, founder and
On the Clock
“It needed to be collaborative if we were going to
facilities like Pac-12 Networks to be more cost-
managing principal at San Francisco-based
make it,” Van Hoy recalled. “From the day that they
effective. After all, why occupy a $1 million
technology design and consulting company RLS, ASG
signed the contract with us to the day that we had to be
production space when you can get the job done
also oversaw the acoustic design for the production
on air was 364 days, which, for a network sports hub, is
in a room that cost $40,000?
studios and control rooms.
a very short period of time [when you’re deploying]
Pac-12 Networks serves as the content branch of the Pac-12 Conference. The broadcaster comprises
from scratch.” Michele Ferreira, vice president of ASG’s systems
“Within the context of the mission of Pac-12, you’ve got events like football games where there are millions of people watching them, but they
seven 24/7 television networks (one national network
integration and support, was the overall lead on the
also [broadcast] junior varsity lacrosse, and maybe
and six regional networks) and is available through
project. The ASG acoustics team became the primary
there are 100 viewers,” Van Hoy said. “That’s one of
various streaming platforms. Pac-12 broadcasts
coordinator of the physical layout and furniture design,
the things that Pac-12 Networks has really
everything from high-profile football and basketball
with Erika Lisman, principal acoustical architect, and
mastered: [combining] the right technology with
games to smaller varsity matches.
her team running point. Harrison Gardanier, ASG senior
the right production values for the right content.”
24
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LIVE PRODUCTION BUSINESS
working with manufacturers to set up demo gear. “The lessons learned from applying a multitude of stress tests during the pre-commissioning lab setup early on helped us gauge the system’s conformance to
consoles, received the highest level of isolation, with
the level of collaboration between the client,
higher-grade acoustic doors than the production
integrator, and all subcontractors involved. “It’s a
control rooms.
really forward-facing plant that can do a lot of
Systems integrators often face what seem like
incredible things,” he said. “I’m incredibly proud of
Pac-12’s overall operational workflow requirements
impossible deadlines, and this project was no
our team who—quite frankly—pulled off as close to a
and technical standards,” Kumar explained. “We used
exception. Van Hoy attributed the project’s success to
miracle as I think I could describe.”
these lessons to ensure that the critical path to project completion would not be affected, especially given the extremely fast nature of the project.” In cooperation with one of its subcontractors, ASG leased a pre-build space outside of Atlanta—again, in the interest of moving as quickly as possible. “We had about 50 racks going in there, so we wanted to pre-build and pre-wire as much as we could to make the deadline,” Van Hoy said. After over a decade operating out of San Francisco, the Pac-12 team had a deep understanding of what was important to them. This sped up the process, Van Hoy observed, since in many projects part of ASG’s job is guiding clients through their real priorities, which takes time. “They were incredibly self-actualized on what was going to matter to them and what wasn’t,” he added. For example, Pac-12 team members don’t always close their control room doors because they need to move quickly between rooms. Acoustic doors are expensive; if they’re going to be open 80% of the time, it’s not necessary to specify the highest-grade model. Conversely, the lighting in the TV studio—used for halftime shows and commentary—was very important, as was operator comfort in the control rooms, where much effort was made to optimize sightlines and provide well-designed broadcast furniture. Since there are 2,088 fiber links in the facility, the clean management of fiber optic cables was also a high priority.
Room Design Requirements The main design goal behind the control rooms and production spaces was that they would operate in a similar fashion. The exception to this is Production Control Room (PCR) 1, which is used for the television studio. “It has all of the camera shading and those functions in it, whereas the others—because it’s all remote contribution—could be a little smaller,” Van Hoy explained. Interconnectivity between rooms was another requirement. “Let’s say they were doing beach volleyball in Software-Defined Control Room [SDR] 1 and something happened to the computer there, they wanted to be able to jump into SDR 3,” Van Hoy illustrated. “The routing infrastructure had to be able to [accommodate] that, and it’s all set up as presets so that they can jump rapidly. This is sports and there are no do-overs—it’s all live, and so that mattered to them.” Another important issue ASG needed to address was room-to-room sound bleed. While Pac-12 team members may leave control room doors open much of the time, it was still necessary to isolate production spaces and control rooms. The audio control rooms, equipped with Calrec Artemis digital broadcast
avnetwork.com // March 2024 // SCN
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avnetwork.com // March 2024 // SCN
25
BUSINESS AUDIO DESIGN
Historic Chapel, Modern Sound WPS Looks to the Future While Maintaining Aesthetics of Yesteryear
creating a concert hall like experience for choral and orchestral music,” he continued. “These two speaker systems combined to provide very musical and accurate lift and playback of musical performances while simultaneously allowing for highly intelligible speech lift.” Also in use is an Allen & Heath Avantis digital mixing console and Dante-based network, plus a Clear-Com communication system, Listen Technologies systems for assisted listening, Shure wireless microphone system, and additional mics from DPA, Earthworks, and Audix.
Chapel-Sized Challenges According to Fish, the single greatest challenge was matching the right speaker system to the acoustic space, but there were several other challenges that existed simply because of the age and architectural complexities of Princeton Chapel. The building itself has a cruciform shape and a 65-foot vaulted ceiling, which made cabling a great challenge. “The speakers in the chandeliers were fed from speaker cables that were integrated into the support chains leading into termination cabinets in the attic The Princeton University Chapel maintained its historic aesthetic while WPS future-proofed the audio systems for worship, weddings, lectures, and musical performances.
space,” he explained. “They were then routed from the termination cabinets to a tower that ran from the attic to the basement. In the basement, the speaker
By Wayne Cavadi
D
esigned in Collegiate Gothic style, Princeton University Chapel in Princeton, NJ, is believed to be one of the largest
impressive, considering the chapel remained in use
cables were run in cable tray to the new audio rack
throughout the project. Per Fish, all work had to cease
location. Each of the 24 chandelier speakers had its
during services, but could continue in a quiet manner
own 12-gauge cable that led to three QSC CX-Q 4K8
during organ and choir rehearsals.
8-channel amplifiers.”
WPS had the advantage of understanding the old
Remember those Renkus-Heinz speakers?
system, which the company installed in the 1990s
Network audio distribution to the speakers was
university chapels in the world. Visitors to the
(and was designed by Acentech). “It was a
handled using individual home runs of 12-core,
chapel come for worship, weddings, and musical
combination of custom pew-back speakers in the
single-mode fiber leading down to the new audio rack
performances, enjoying an aesthetic that reminds
transept and custom-tapered nine-element column
location. Fish said four of the cores were used for
them of days of yore.
arrays throughout the nave,” Fish explained. “That
Dante primary and secondary circuiting, while the
Unfortunately, so did the audio system.
the system lasted for 30 years is a tribute to its
remaining eight cores are for future implementation
Washington Professional Systems, which installed
successful implementation—but within the last
of a distributed video system.
the existing sound system in the 1990s, was called
decade, the system’s performance certainly suffered
upon once again to modernize the Princeton Chapel
from the age of its components.”
audio system with technology set for the future—all
Other challenges included mounting. The chandeliers were renovated with LED lights and had
The new system, designed by Sam Berkow of SIA
to be lowered, removed, and hoisted back into place
while keeping the integrity of the university’s house of
Acoustics, includes a wide array of Pro AV solutions.
once upgraded, making installation of the Fulcrum
worship entering its 96th year of service.
As Fish explained, it uses more than a dozen Renkus-
Acoustic speakers a challenge in both function and
Heinz Iconyx digitally steerable line arrays.
time. The architecture made the installation of other
Let There Be Sound
“For the purpose of delivering highly
speakers tricky as well. “Mounting of the Iconyx speakers onto the
The Princeton Chapel is not simply a historic house of
intelligible voice lift, the design could have
worship, but an elaborately decorated one, with
stopped there,” Fish said. “But the system
structural columns was especially difficult
high-arching ceilings, ornate stained-glass windows,
design went on to provide a means to
given that there was not a flat surface to be
and a pipe organ. As John Fish, WPS senior engineer,
support the extensive use of the space as a
utilized on any of the columns,” Fish noted.
recalled, the challenging installation required a
performance venue. This was accomplished
“This was made even more difficult given the
complex system.
with the use of 24 Fulcrum Acoustic 5 and
edict that there was to be no penetration into
8-inch coaxial speakers mounted within
the stone. Unique brackets, customized for
Project engineering began in December 2022, with the installation starting in April 2023. The project was complete in September 2023, though WPS provided some fine tuning throughout October. That’s quite
26
SCN // March 2024 // avnetwork.com
the newly refurbished chandeliers.
each column, were positioned in the concave space created where two
“These speakers had the effect of wrapping the listener with music,
John Fish
cylindrical details on the
AUDIO DESIGN BUSINESS
“Multiple presets are accessible on a touchpanel
Princeton’s project management team, the chapel’s
vertical custom steel assembly was installed onto the
located under the pulpit,” explained Fish.” Each one
operational staff, the audio design consultants, the
brackets, providing a flat surface onto which the
recalls a unique configuration of the system for each
general contractor, the electrical contractor, and
Iconyx columns were mounted.”
denomination and various weekly events at the
WPS’ project team,” Fish said. “Of greatest
columns met. Once the brackets were in place, a
While the architecture proved challenging,
chapel’s main altar and the altar in the Marquand
importance is listening to everyone who is involved.
keeping the integrity of that historic pipe organ was
Chapel. The ‘non-operator’ mode is designed to
Great ideas and solutions are not the exclusive
essential. “The prime directive for the pipe organ was
allow for the use of the fixed microphones and
domain of architects, designers, and engineers.
‘do no harm,’” said Fish. “Since the pipe organ relies
certain wireless microphones for voice lift.”
Simple comments from the loftiest executive to the
on the acoustics of the chapel, it is sometimes hard to
The pandemic changed the way people do so
humblest worker can lead to the best solution.” “I’ve only heard very positive things,” said Rev.
ascertain where the instrument stops and the
many things, and that includes in-person services.
building begins. There was a small amount of acoustic
The sound system was designed with three modes for
Alison L. Boden, Ph.D., dean of religious life and of
treatment, designed by SIA Acoustics, put onto the
broadcasting and streaming. Additionally, there is a
the chapel, Princeton University. “People can
south walls of the transept to control a spectral
rack with an Apple Mac Pro running Avid Pro Tools
decipher our words and hear music in an
reflection back into the chancel area. An interesting
with four Focusrite RedNet HD32R interfaces for
appropriately blended way. People who formerly
footnote is that the fabric covering the treatment was
broadcasting. Using the fiber backbone of the
needed assisted hearing devices from the chapel
printed with a high-resolution image of the stone
system, the rack allows for 128 channels of recording.
don’t need them anymore.”
wall onto which it was installed.”
Ready for Service
The user-friendly design of the sound system has
“The chapel lighting restoration and sound
been well-received by both the parishioners and
system replacement project was a complex project
visitors, as well as the Princeton Chapel staff. With
that required attention to detail and collaboration
One of the keys of the new sound system was
advanced capabilities and future-proofed solutions,
with the design team and client throughout
ensuring ease of use. Clergy and staff had to be able
Princeton Chapel is set for enhanced and crystal-
construction, system startup, and turnover,” added
to pick up on things relatively quickly to get the
clear auditory experiences for—like its predecessor—
Alexis Mutschler, assistant director of special
right aural tone. WPS installed the system with a
another 30 years or more.
projects at Princeton. “WPS was a team player and
“non-operator” mode to simplify the process and
“In historic spaces at Princeton University, every
always prepared with an alternative solution or
allow everyone involved to utilize the audio system
alteration must be run through an extensive review
suggestion on how to better the system to give the
for services.
process involving Princeton’s architectural team,
university the best sound possible.”
avnetwork.com // March 2024 // SCN
27
BUSINESS CONTENT CREATION
Mitigating the Content Quality Mismatch It’s Time for Companies to Turn Old Conference Rooms into Video Production Resources By Mike Dias
W
compare our mediocrity against that young talented
well-healed companies, it is time to start building out
streamer they were watching right before our
your own project studios.
meetings. e have all become connoisseurs of
If we don’t act, we will lack the means of communicating with our future customers. The only
fine content. After sitting through
Keep Up with Creativity
years of endless Zoom meetings and
There is a fundamental mismatch happening in the
consumers is for companies to produce content that is
sifting through thousands of hours of YouTube
market right now between the content that
at least on par with the expectations of potential and
how-to tutorials, we all know what works—and
businesses are producing versus what individuals are
current customers. Content created by businesses
what doesn’t. And yet, as professional audio
creating, with businesses falling short. It is time for
must look and feel as good as content created
manufacturers who supply the gear and equipment
companies to create evergreen content that looks and
independently by end users and influencers.
for the creative economy, we run the risk of looking
feels modern and relevant. It is time to turn those old
and feeling woefully out of sync with our customers
conference rooms into productive resources as
For serious video calls or productions, think in terms
and their needs when the content that we produce
content creation and event-hosting centers. And for
of professional broadcasts. You should consider
in-house isn’t up to snuff. Bottom line: As businesses and individually as
way to stay top-of-mind and relevant with
Visual impressions should affect your gear choices.
whether a headset is the best look, or if it makes you look like a drive-thru worker. (Under no
professionals, we can no longer get away with bad
circumstances should you ever use AirPods in these
audio feeds and lackluster presentations. Especially
settings.) If you care about how you look and sound,
when our clients and peers judge our performance and
take a page from professional entertainment and start
Audio-Technica recently announced its new System Solutions Test Lab.
28
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CONTENT CREATION BUSINESS
using in-ear monitors whenever you’re on screen.
months, and we’re only now starting to unpack and
Writing on behalf of PAMA, Mike Dias is the
Microphones also matter visually as well as
understand all the ramifications and opportunities.
executive director of the In-Ear Monitor
audibly. “Professional-level content creation tools
One thing is certain: Consumers and casual content
International Trade Organization. He often
are more accessible and affordable than ever for
creators have embraced the technological shift and
discusses what entertainers can teach executives,
businesses,” said Eduardo Valdes, associate vice
leapfrogged corporate content offerings. It’s time
as well as the intersections and overlaps between
president for consumer and pro global marketing at
for the business community to catch up.
pro audio and consumer electronics.
Professional Audio Manufacturers Alliance (PAMA) member company Shure. “There are a variety of microphone types—and styles—that fit every business need. This includes in-house equipment as well as options for remote and mobile workers.”
Content Is (Still) King How companies look and sound matters. What they produce matters even more. Half of all searches happen on social platforms. If your company is not producing videos, tutorials, and podcasts, you are missing half of all potential search opportunities. Content is king and this applies to businesses now more than ever. As many have moved back to the office, we’ve seen and assessed what has fundamentally changed and what no longer works. Keeping the message within the old conference room walls no longer works—and the sooner we repurpose the space and our focus, the faster business can move forward. PAMA member company Audio-Technica recently announced a new System Solutions Test Lab at its U.S. headquarters in Stow, OH, which addresses the new realities. The new facility was designed for analysis, development, testing, demonstration, and troubleshooting of AudioTechnica’s commercial products in applications including presentations, huddle rooms, classrooms, boardrooms, and more. “Commercial products, especially for videoconferencing, are best experienced from the far end as an end user will experience it,” explained Mark Donovan, applications engineering manager, professional markets, Audio-Technica. “Additionally, the room lends itself well to content creation for short, informative ‘how-to’ videos about various aspects of our commercial lineup.” Selling professional audio gear into the corporate environment is simply the next extension of the initial work-from-home wave. Now that employees have invested in their home office setups, it is only natural for them to want to continue to look and sound as good as they did remotely after they return to the office. As professional audio manufacturers, we’ve reaped the rewards from the openings of many new markets. Everyone is a creator now. And every business is a potential new customer for microphones, audio interfaces, professional lighting, sound paneling, speakers, headphones, and in-ear monitors. It starts with the conference room, but don’t be surprised to see high-quality broadcast gear in every office. We’ve stuffed 15 years of change into the last 48
avnetwork.com // March 2024 // SCN
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BUSINESS LABOR ISSUES
From Left, Christina Cruzeiro, Jennifer Goodyer, Gina Sansivero, Jan Sandri, Sarah Joyce, Tammy Fuqua, and Danilda Martinez
Women in the Workforce How Integrators and Others Can Attract and Retain Talent in the Pro AV Industry By Carolyn Heinze
A
difficult to attract them to the industry, explained
electronics production floor, supply chain
Gina Sansivero, president of WAVIT (Women in AV/
management, and human resources.
IT) and VP of marketing and corporate
Sandri attributes FSR’s diverse workforce to a
s of 2024, the Pro AV industry continues
communications at AtlasIED. “When there are so few
mindset that values top talent, no matter the
to remain largely male (and largely white).
women [in Pro AV], it’s really hard to convince other
candidate’s race, religion, or gender. “The people who
To combat the ongoing issue of attracting
women that there’s a place for them here,” she added.
are in charge of hiring—whether it’s a manager or an
top talent, organizations within the industry have
Jan Sandri, co-founder and president of FSR,
HR person—have to be open to the fact that we accept
more work to do in attracting and supporting a more
noted that between 78-80% of her organization’s
diverse workforce, including women of all ethnic
employee population is made up of minorities. She
backgrounds.
explains that women hold supervisory positions in all
Advancing Careers
aspects of the company, including in the metal shop,
Sarah Joyce, chief global officer at AVIXA, realyed
However, one of the challenges that organizations
everyone,” she said.
face, is that Pro AV careers are still a bit of a secret.
that when she mentors women seeking to advance
Little Suzy may dream of being an architect when she
According to Christina Cruzeiro, co-chair of the
Neutrik Americas Sponsors WE
their careers, she encourages them to develop a
AVIXA Women’s Council and regional sales manager
In January, Neutrik Americas, part of Neutrik
can expand their knowledge and avoid being
for Canada at Atlona, this is beginning to change. “A
Group, announced its sponsorship of Women in
pigeonholed. “Go to a finance course; you don’t need
lot of companies are starting to realize that they can’t
Electronics (WE), a community of progressive
to be an accountant, but understand finance and
let people continue to fall into this industry,” she
leaders at all stages of their careers dedicated to
business planning,” she said.
said. “Organizations [need] to be part of the solution
expanding the opportunities for women in the
and part of training people earlier that this is an
electronics industry, industrial industry, and
certain career path. “You have to speak up,” Sandri
option, this could be a career for you.”
related markets.
said. “If you want to move up or change [roles], you
grows up, but she probably hasn’t considered experiential AV design because she’s never heard of it.
broad spectrum of business skills. She also urges women to educate themselves on subjects that are outside of their own roles and experiences, so they
It’s also necessary to voice one’s desire to pursue a
Pro AV also needs more women in leadership,
Established in 2017, WE was built on the
argued Jennifer Goodyer, founding board member of
premise of women working collaboratively to find
Women in AV/IT (WAVIT), co-founder of Rosie
inspiration, strength, and empowerment through
Riveters Explores Pro AV, and sales director at RT
a sense of community, while uniting with male
Council and developer partner manager at QSC, noted
Sales. When organizational leadership is primarily
colleagues to collectively fill the next leadership
that for women to gain credibility, they must
made up of white men, it’s difficult to gain diverse
pipeline. Neutrik Americas recognizes the
demonstrate their competence. “I know it can be
insight and perspective. “It’s all fine and dandy if you
importance of WE’s efforts and is committed to
super-intimidating being the only woman in the
have diversity on the lower rungs [of the ladder], but if
helping the organization.
room—I’ve been the only woman in the room many
there’s no one actually influencing the decisions being made, you’re not going to see change,” she said.
Barriers to Entry
“Neutrik Americas is proud to partner with
have to speak up for yourself, because the people in charge are not mind readers.” Tammy Fuqua, co-chair of the AVIXA Women’s
times,” she said. “But when you show that you know
Women in Electronics, an organization that
what you’re talking about and find that voice, then
champions gender diversity and empowerment in
speak up and use it.”
the electronics industry,” said Stacy Kaskon, VP of
Building a varied skillset early on can be of great
In 2023, women made up 15% of attendees at both
Neutrik Americas. “We are excited to engage with
help when women move into leadership positions,
Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) and InfoComm,
WE, offering our team access to exceptional
said Danilda Martinez, a producer and editor based in
according to AVIXA. While this is a slight increase
resources and programs that promote professional
West Palm Beach, FL, and director of programs and
over previous years—13% and 14% of attendees were
and personal growth. This collaboration is more
outreach at #GALSNGEAR. “The higher you go, the
women at ISE and InfoComm, respectively, in
than a sponsorship; it’s a significant step towards
more you can pull from that experience when you
2019—women remain a minority. This makes it
a diverse and vibrant future in our industry.”
wore boots on the ground,” she added. She
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LABOR ISSUES BUSINESS
inappropriate photography and recording, sustained
champion them. “They need to find [a woman]
disruption of talks or other events, inappropriate
within their organization that are trying to break
physical contact, and unwelcome attention.”
through and get to that next step in their career, and
Harassment victims are encouraged to report
they need to be that person’s champion,” she said.
inappropriate conduct to event management during
Cruzeiro noted that the industry can also support
AVIXA events so it can be investigated and
women by supporting men. She cites workplace
addressed.
flexibility as an example: In many organizations, it’s
While this may help protect women on the show
assumed that women handle the bulk of childcare at
floor, it’s after-hours events, client dinners
home, and thus can benefit from working remotely.
throughout the year, or even run-of-the-mill
Many men, however, would like the opportunity to
meetings where sexism and harassment can surface,
clock off every now and then to take the kids to their
encourages women to try new things, even when they
according to Sansivero. She encourages women who
doctors’ appointments and extracurricular activities.
may not meet 100% of the “necessary” qualifications.
experience sexism and harassment to call it out. “The
There is no reason, she argued, that Pro AV
At the same time, Martinez holds women
more we talk about it, the more we push for things
companies cannot provide this flexibility to
accountable for the work that they do. “We’re
like the code of conduct being visible at trade shows,
everyone. “Women are not the only ones responsible
working in these environments, whether it’s
the more we push employers to reprimand behavior
for parenting,” she said. “Until we fully get that
production or installation, where things have to flow
like that, the more we require our industry to step up
engrained in everyone’s head and it’s a bias that goes
smoothly. You need to be able to troubleshoot—to
to the plate with respect, the more we’re going to see
away, we’re not going to be on equal footing.”
have a Plan B to your Plan B to your Plan B—and
this dwindle over time, hopefully,” she said.
constantly show up,” she added.
While the industry has more work to do in
The goal should be to create a safe space for everyone. “And, if there’s anybody that’s not in line
Harassment: It Still Exists
building awareness of its existence, selling it to women should be easy. Why?
with that,” Sansivero added, “then there’s no need
“For me, it’s the magic and the science,” Joyce
Several years ago, AVIXA began including a
for them, there’s no use for them, there’s no future
explained. “You need the technological
harassment statement in its InfoComm show policy.
for them here.”
understanding, but you also need that little bit of
The organization states that it “will not tolerate
magic—because everything that we’re doing is
harassment of any kind,” including that which is
Pro AV: An Easy Sell?
based on “gender, sex, or sexual orientation.”
Because they’re often the decision-makers within
people, and place. Everything we do is about a
For AVIXA, harassment “includes but is not
companies, men in Pro AV are well-positioned to
solution, an outcome, and an experience. That’s why
limited to offensive gestures and verbal comments,
help bring women into leadership roles. Instead of
I love it and have stayed in it and wouldn’t wish to be
deliberate intimidation, stalking, following,
mentoring women, Cruzeiro encourages men to
anywhere else.”
Pro AV Women’s Organizations
looking at those important vectors of content,
provide opportunities for women to
to create the understanding that we
speak at events to give them more
exist [and] there are many different
exposure, and offers a space for women
options for getting a job in this industry,” she said.
AVIXA Women’s Council
Riveters, a nonprofit that funds free
to meet each other. "It's a really cool
STEM programming to school-age
virtual environment where we connect
The mission of the
girls. The goal, explained co-founder
the industry to women looking for jobs,
AVIXA Women’s
Jennifer Goodyer, is to let girls know
but also women looking to meet other
Women in Consumer Technology (WiCT)
Council is “to provide a global
about the Pro AV industry and its career
folks in their industries," said Danilda
WiCT strives to provide an environment
community of AVIXA members and
opportunities.
Martinez, director of programs and
where women can build their
outreach at #GALSNGEAR.
professional networks and develop their
other professionals committed to
“If we don’t start bringing more
supporting and empowering women
diversity into our industry, we’re going
who work in the technology and AV
to be left in the dust,” Goodyer said.
industry.”
“We need to bring in young, diverse
WAVIT (Women in AV/IT)
people to the industry, and that’s
Officially launched in
Tammy Fuqua, co-chair of the
careers. The organization hosts live and virtual events through which its members can connect, educate each other, and exchange ideas.
AVIXA Women’s Council, accepted
something that we are focused on with
January 2023, WAVIT’s aims “to provide
These networking opportunities
the role to drive awareness of the
Rosie Riveters.”
a network that supports and empowers
are the reason that Carol Campbell,
women in the AV and IT industries
founder, encourages young women
through education, representation, and
to join industry groups. “These are
opportunities this industry offers. “We want to have more young women
#GALSNGEAR
come into the industry,” she said. “I
#GALSNGEAR
inclusion.” The organization addresses
organizations where you find yourself—
feel like I’m doing something to give
aims to train and
issues such as attracting women to AV/
on a committee, on a working group, on
back to them, to show them that
support women in the entertainment
IT and retaining them, the gender pay
whatever it is—with Ms. Senior
there are pathways into the industry
and media industries. Through its
gap, bias, and lack of leadership
VP, with Mr. EVP, with Ms.
and reasons to stay in the industry.”
Tequity Hub, a training and networking
opportunities.
Position That You Aspire To,
AV Gives
platform, students can access
WAVIT president Gina Sansivero
and you get to know them,”
upskilling opportunities, with topics
explained that the organization also
she said. “The opportunity
AV Gives shares a
including AI, audio workflow, project
performs outreach to high schools and
here to stand out is
continued STEM
management, and more.
colleges with the goal of educating
tremendous. You have to
students about Pro AV. “We’re helping
get involved.”
initiative partnership with Rosie
The organization also tries to
Carol Campbell
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31
TECHNOLOGY AVOIP
an easy-to-use replacement for peer-to-peer SDI connections for live video production. “Using the existing LAN, NDI allows automatic discovery and one-to-one or one-to-many AV connections among multiple cameras and video mixers via a single Ethernet cable,” Shane explained. “Simplicity and low cost of implementation are the biggest driving factors for implementing NDI workflows. A single Ethernet cable carries bidirectional AV and camera control signals via standard IT infrastructure. No additional wiring or switching is required, while multiple IP protocols can co-exist on LAN, including NDI and Dante.” NDI’s many advantages explain why JVC has integrated the protocol into its cameras and video mixers. “NDI provides our customers with a simple and cost-efficient workflow and ensures Advances in NDI technology make it more useful in cloud-based production workflows.
interoperability with many other brands of production equipment,” Shane added. “Most
NDI Reigns over AVoIP Protocols With NDI 6 on the Horizon, Supporters Laud Its Success
recently, this included a collection of remote production solutions that provide our customers with high-quality, price-effective, glass-to-glass tools. With these latest solutions, broadcasters, houses of worship, and event facilities of all sizes can stay competitive in our evolving media market.” ENCO Systems employs NDI in its automated/ real-time captioning and TV-channel-in-a-box broadcast software solutions. “Part of what makes any standard really take hold is its accessibility across different systems and reliable integration with other
By James Careless
S
NDI became part of the Vizrt Group. At press time, the
products,” said Bill Bennett, ENCO’s media solutions
industry was awaiting the release of NDI 6, the latest
and accounts manager. “NDI has been around for a
iteration of the widely-used AVoIP standard. Limited
while, is supported well, and is regularly updated—all
ince its introduction by NewTek in 2015,
beta testing via select partners has been in progress
crucial when it comes to staying powerful. Its further
NDI (Network Device Interface) has
for months, and a public beta version is expected
development by adding useful, cloud-friendly, and
revolutionized and simplified AV-over-IP
soon. While we wait, here’s a deeper dive on what
cross-platform NDI Tools only further improves its
makes NDI so popular.
usefulness for all kinds of applications where
signal transport. In strict terms, “NDI is a video connectivity
affordable, high-quality AVoIP transport is essential.
protocol that allows any two devices or a device and a
Formula for Success
software on a computer to exchange audio, video, and
Edgar Shane is general manager of engineering and
metadata,” explained Miguel Coutinho, NDI’s head of
product development with JVC Professional Video. He
strategy. “What makes it so successful is the ability of
likes NDI because, unlike other protocols, it features a
A History of Progress
any software company to adopt NDI or to support NDI
“plug-and-play configuration where all sources
NDI has gone out of its way to give equipment and
free of charge.”
[cameras, encoders, PCs, etc.] can be automatically
software makers the freedom to manage and
The fact that NDI is a free-to-use open AVoIP
discovered by NDI-capable video players, decoders,
advance the AVoIP standard directly, rather than
standard is one reason why this video connectivity
and video switchers. No IP or port configuration is
enforcing direct control itself. “We want to be
protocol has been adopted by major AV and IT
needed, provided all sources are connected to the
decentralized, meaning we want NDI to be
equipment manufacturers industry-wide. They
same LAN.”
supported by as many software companies as
wouldn’t have adopted NDI if it didn’t work—but it
Where NDI really comes to the fore, he added, is as
does.
From a cost standpoint, being royalty-free has also opened a lot of doors.”
possible. We don’t want to be a middleman where, if you buy a full set of NDI-enabled
“On the end user side, I would say NDI
equipment, you are then supposed to
is probably the easiest to use and most
come back to us, pay for our software,
effective video over IP protocol that’s out
and be locked to whatever we think is the
there,” Coutinho said. “This doesn’t mean
best set of features or user interface,”
that NDI should be the go-to solution if
Coutinho explained. “I would say that’s
you are looking to deploy something on a
the main difference between us and our
12 gig network. But it is the connectivity
competitors.”
technology that covers the most use cases
NDI’s willingness to share has made
and allows you to do more with more
this standard extremely compelling to
flexibility and less costs.” When NewTek was acquired in 2019,
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companies like ENCO. “Without From Left, Miguel Coutinho, Edgar Shane, and Bill Bennett
question, the low/zero cost to employ
AVOIP TECHNOLOGY
“Simplicity and low cost of implementation are the biggest driving factors for implementing NDI workflows.” Edgar Shane, JVC Professional Video NDI and its ever-growing suite of tools make it a
a router, support for 4K, smartphone apps, and
hard option to pass up,” said Bennett. “Native
webcam make it even more useful throughout a
integration into more applications makes using NDI
workflow.”
Daniel Nergård
become very user-friendly, meaning even non-
designed to interconnect multiple NDI domains via
technical users can set up NDI transmitters and
WAN and the internet. “NDI’s latest enhancements
NDI Appoints New President
receivers or use their tools easily.”
make it more useful in cloud workflows,” Bennett
In January, NDI announced its new president,
seamless to workflows, and their interfaces have
NDI Bridge is another development; it is
Since NDI was introduced at
added. “Right now, many
Daniel Nergård, who will be responsible for
IBC 2015 by Dr. Andrew Cross (the
churches, municipalities,
driving the company’s continued expansion. As
driving force behind the standard
streamers, radio stations, and
the community of users keeps growing and
and recent inductee into the SCN
live event producers use NDI
adopting NDI into more segments, Nergård will
Hall of Fame), the protocol has
entirely within their private
lead the team to harness that growth and bring
been regularly revised, expanded,
LANs. However, once the ease at
NDI to many more industry-leading companies,
and improved. Case in point:
which NDI enables cloud-based
devices, and software applications.
“NDI was originally based on the I-frame SpeedHQ
and internet workflows becomes more commonly
Nergård’s leadership comes at a pivotal
codec and required a high bandwidth for AV
known, many users may start adding those remote
moment, aligning with the company’s strategic
transfer,” recalled Shane. “The NDI HX/HX2/HX3
capabilities to their local productions.”
vision to further scale its presence among major
variants introduced later feature H.264 and HEVC
This history of progress will continue when NDI
partners and product manufacturers, as well as
codecs for significant bandwidth reduction to
6 is released—and Coutinho is excited by its
scaling the usage of NDI within major cloud
accommodate multiple HD and 4K streams over
prospects. He expects to see NDI being deployed
service providers. The current ecosystem boasts
standard Gigabit networks.”
more in office settings, medical facilities, video
more than 700 NDI-enabled hardware products
games, and prosumer AV equipment.
and 300-plus software applications.
NDI appeared when the concept of streaming was alien and unfamiliar to many end users.
“NDI 6 is the first true release of this new stage
“NDI is leading in video connectivity
“Running audio—let alone video—over Ethernet
of NDI as a standard and as a company, because it’ll
technology, as both flexibility and ease of use
was a very disruptive concept at first, and it still is
open a door for better and more native integration of
have become the standard in the various
evolving and gaining trust in new markets,” Bennett
NDI on compact form factors, starting with camera
industries we serve,” Nergård said. “After a few
said. “When NDI came out, it was fairly simple.
devices,” he said. “It will also meet expectations in
years of watching NDI’s growth, I am excited to
Major quality, discovery, and routing improvements
terms of increased video image quality that our user
lead this team into its next phase. We envision a
and tools came later in its successive versions, only
base is looking for, both for small video operations
significant expansion into diverse devices and
enhancing NDI’s usefulness. The latest additions of
and national TV networks.”
various market segments, driven by the increasing demand from our partners and the user community. Our commitment to investing in and supporting our valued partners and users within the expanding ecosystem remains our top priority.” Nergård brings a wealth of knowledge to the role, having previously served as chief revenue officer of Vizrt and a part of the management team. He has also held key roles in general management and leading commercial initiatives across diverse software segments, including fintech, mobile applications, infrastructure, and enterprise software. “In 2023, NDI achieved remarkable acceleration, witnessing a 130% surge in the number of new NDI Advanced licensees,” said Michael Hallén, chairman of NDI’s board of directors and CEO of Vizrt. “Daniel’s extensive background will contribute significantly to JVC has integrated NDI into its cameras and video switchers.
further increase the rate of adoption while expanding NDI’s technology capabilities.”
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TECHNOLOGY VIDEOBARS Videobars have become a popular trend for hybrid workspaces. Owl Labs offers the Owl Bar, which is part of the company's meeting ecosystem.
Videobars: Conferencing Simplified Experts Explain the Appeal and Limitations of an All-in-One Solution By Wayne Cavadi
T
he hybrid world keeps turning and meeting
ing remote participants into meetings no matter
videobars are solutions that are easy to deploy,”
where they were. But what if there was a way to get
explained Sam Kennedy, senior director of product
all that in one device?
marketing, Crestron. “For most bars, all one needs to
The videobar provides that all-in-one solution and has become one of hybrid’s biggest trends. The
monitor. Solutions like that—which are repeatable at
concept was to get videoconferencing just
reason? The simple answer is … simplicity.
scale—simplify the process of bringing connectivity
right with multiple pieces of Pro AV gear—like PTZ
“With the rise of hybrid work, organizations need
cameras, speakerphones, and ceiling mics—bring-
video collaboration in as many spaces as possible, and
From Left, Nathan Coutinho, Hal Truax, Ben Macdonald, Sam Kennedy, and Fredrik Hörnkvist
34
do is plug in the power, Ethernet, controller, and
equity has been a major focus. Originally, the
SCN // March 2024 // avnetwork.com
and collaboration into every meeting space.” There are a lot of videobars to choose from, so it’s
VIDEOBARS TECHNOLOGY important to remember not all are created equal;
important to remember that size matters.
user and the meeting space,” Truax said. “Larger
some are for huddle rooms, while others are designed
“Room aesthetics play a part, but ultimately a
videobars may offer better audio quality and wider
for larger boardrooms. So, which is the right videobar
videobar has to deliver in terms of visual and audio
camera coverage, suitable for big conference rooms.
for your next installation?
performance,” Hörnkvist said. “A high-capacity
Smaller ones are ideal for personal use or small
lens, powerful speakers, and mics are needed for
meeting spaces and huddle rooms where portability
larger rooms.”
and space-saving are priorities.”
Conference Room in a Box There are quite a few advantages in selecting a
“The choice depends on the specific needs of the
videobar for the current hybrid landscape. As Boom co-founder Fredrik Hörnkvist explained, videobars are literally conferencing in a box. “They combine a camera, microphone, and speakers in a single unit, simplifying setup and reducing clutter in meeting spaces,” added Hal Truax, president, commercial division of WyreStorm. “This integration is ideal for remote communication and virtual meetings, making them a preferred choice in the evolving landscape of workplace communication.” That doesn’t mean videobars are 100% the answer for everyone, as they do come with some disadvantages. “As a static device, they are not always ideally suited to larger rooms or multipurpose environments, where people can be sat further away,” Hörnkvist observed. “Not all offer the ability of expandable audio. We sometimes recommend a PTZ camera instead for larger rooms.” Advances like the Owl Labs ecosystem are reasons to believe that these disadvantages will improve in the not-so-distant future. “Videobars are, unfortunately, often only placed at the front of the room, making everyone in the meeting look small and clumped together,” said Ben Macdonald, vice president of global sales and channels at Owl Labs. “Everyone joining remotely feels like they aren’t a part of the conversation. When our Owl Bar is paired with the Meeting Owl, you have a front-of-room and center-of-room camera that covers almost the entire meeting space. This helps conversations flow better and allows everyone to feel included.” “While the disadvantage can be lack of options that address unique organizational needs, continued innovation has successfully addressed this challenge,” added Nathan Coutinho, head of analyst relations and business strategy at Logitech. “From the use of AI for improved call quality to offering a variety of sizes and pricing to building products with sustainability in mind, the videoconferencing product experience is elevated to offer mostly benefits and make the purchasing decision tailored and easier. Today’s portfolio of products addresses the core challenges of a videoconferencing solution that is easy to manage and that creates an equitable experience for all participants regardless of where in the room they sit or if they are joining remotely.”
AI and Other Features A videobar has the same goal as any hybrid conferencing solution: Enable all participants to see and be seen and hear and be heard. Thus, most manufacturers and videoconferencing experts agree that video and audio quality is top of mind. It is also
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35
While ensuring that an inclusive conferencing
TECHNOLOGY VIDEOBARS
space is established via the technology within the videobar, it is also important to consider the size of the room and where the videobar will be installed—
1
not simply the location in the room, but if it will be attached to a display or rest on a tabletop—because mounting options become pivotal at that point. “Something one might overlook is cloud vendors’ support of Android versus Windows,” Kennedy added. “Typically, Microsoft brings more advanced features to Windows first, so if you’re looking to deploy the ‘latest and greatest,’ consider a Windows solution. If you’re looking for a quick, super-simple solution, Android bars make a lot of sense.” Kennedy also reminded potential buyers to make sure the videobar
2
has the right inputs and outputs for the space. And, of course, what is a Pro AV discussion without looking at artificial intelligence. “Like other products and industries, videoconferencing
3
equipment has exciting opportunities to reimagine how we connect with each other through strategic implementation of AI,” Coutinho said. “Our research shows that employees are open to increased use of AI in the workplace,” Macdonald said. “Our 2023 State of Hybrid Work survey found that 44% of workers believe generative AI will help them do their jobs faster and more effectively in the next five years.”
4
“AI is becoming increasingly important in videobars for intelligently enhancing both video and
So which videobar fits best in your hybrid
seamless conversation. The videobar combines dual
3
workspace? With so many out there from which to
4K lenses, 113-degree field of view, and an optical 18x
includes a wide-angle 4K PTZ camera with high-
choose, SCN has compiled a list of 16 videobars on the
zoom to capture sharp, detailed images of wide and
quality optics along with auto-framing and auto-focus
following pages to get you started.
deep viewing angles. AVer’s built-in SmartFrame
technology to identify meeting participants and adjust
technology centers meeting participants from up to
the focus and zoom as attendees move about the
22 feet away. It also features Presentation Tracking
space. For audio, the VBC 2500a features a 27-element
and Conversation View—the former locates and
Beamtracking microphone array across three zones to
frames the area around a speaker, while the latter
actively track and intelligently mix conversations. For
tracks the speaker in real time, smoothly
easy setup, the Launch software automatically
transitioning as new participants enter the meeting
determines the acoustics of the room and then
and creating a more engaging, immersive experience.
optimizes the performance of the bar at the touch of a
audio quality,” Truax added. “AI can enable features like auto-framing, voice tracking, noise reduction, and lighting adjustment, significantly improving the overall meeting experience.”
“AI can enable features like autoframing, voice tracking, noise reduction, and lighting adjustment, significantly improving the overall meeting experience.” Hal Truax, WyreStorm 36
SCN // March 2024 // avnetwork.com
1
AVer VB350 The VB350 was designed to capture all attendees in a meeting while enhancing
2
Barco ClickShare Bar Barco’s new ClickShare Bar enables wireless conferencing in small to medium-sized
meeting rooms. Available in two models, it brings ease of installation, a reduced total cost of ownership, and flexibility to the meeting room. The ClickShare
Biamp Parlé VBC 2500a The Parlé VBC 2500a is an all-in-one, professional-grade videobar for huddle,
small, and medium-sized conferencing rooms. It
button. For individuals requiring hearing assistance, the VBC 2500a is compatible with assistive listening systems via a dedicated 3.5mm output connector.
4
Boom HALO This all-in-one solution was designed with larger rooms in mind. The Boom HALO
Bar Core combines essential collaboration
features a 4K UHD camera, six microphone array, and
functionalities with high-quality audio and video. The
high-fidelity speakers for smooth and seamless
ClickShare Bar Pro adds extra functionalities like
collaboration. Available in white and black, it boasts
advanced AI speaker framing, interactivity features
many advanced features such as facial recognition,
(touchback, annotation, and blackboarding), and a
speaker tracking, intelligent noise reduction, and AI
wired room dock for 4K content sharing and
auto-framing. Additional ports allow for audio
alternative connectivity. It also supports dual-screen
expansion for flexible rooms and growing teams. A
configurations, allowing people and content to be
120-degree wide angle field of view, 10x zoom, smart
shown side by side on two displays.
mic array, and 8 MP CMOS sensor ensure an enhanced
VIDEOBARS TECHNOLOGY
9
5 effective collaboration. Intelligent picture framing powered by EPOS AI adjusts to include all people in the room, while
6
a wide-angle 4K camera with Sony sensors and electromechanical pan/tilt ensures optimal room
meeting experience for a variety of spaces. Dual
coverage. Stereo speakers and beamforming
7
microphones guarantee crisp voice pickup as well as effective noise and echo cancellation. Leveraging
10-watt speakers and a 48kHz sampling rate provide
algorithms and acoustics thanks to EPOS’
lossless audio and full spectrum sound for meeting
BrainAdapt technology, the EXPAND Vision 5 helps
participants.
the brain focus and orient while in hybrid meetings.
5
Direct USB connection to a PC or Mac lets
Bose Professional Videobar VB-S
participants bring their own device (BYOD) and run
The Bose Professional Videobar VB-S installs
any UC solution from their laptop.
9
quickly and easily to deliver enhanced
Jabra PanaCast 50
performance. With signature Bose Professional audio and a 4K camera, the VB-S delivers a high-quality meeting experience. Featuring a beamforming array
With its AI-powered, software-defined platform, the Jabra PanaCast 50 Video Bar
ensuring remote participants feel like they’re in the
7
meeting spaces (up to 15 square feet) while
through Bluetooth, wired Ethernet, and Wi-Fi
room. Its simple, in-box mounting options, low-
accommodating up to seven participants. The small
(WPA-2 personal and enterprise). The solution also
profile design, and USB plug-and-play functionality
room solution, which can be used with any display,
meets the strict security requirements of Microsoft
make installation and operation a breeze.
includes the all-in-one DTEN Bar paired with the
Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms. The system includes
DTEN Mate tabletop meeting controller. It delivers
an integrated videobar with speakers, microphones,
AI-powered audio and video, combined with simplicity
camera, and Android UC processing power, as well as
Crestron Videobar 70 is the company’s first
of deployment, use, and management, and flexibility
a 10.1-inch touch controller. It is easy to install,
all-in-one collaboration bar, extending the
to meet the needs of various room configurations, with
manage, and use, with one-touch start/join.
of four microphones, which automatically focuses on voices in the room and reduces noise, the camera provides two auto-framing modes—Group and Individual—for sharp video and a wide field of view,
6
Crestron Videobar 70
System is designed to adapt to evolving UC
DTEN Bar with DTEN Mate
experiences and hybrid workplace needs in any small
The new DTEN Bar is a complete
to medium-sized room. It comes with enterprise-
videoconferencing solution designed for small
grade security, including encryption on the device
options available in the Crestron Flex portfolio.
a center camera that can be mounted horizontally or
Combining intelligent video, high-quality audio, and
vertically (see above). The solution is BYOD capable
Android OS into a single form factor, Crestron
and is certified for Zoom Rooms (with Microsoft Teams
Videobar 70 makes it easy to add engaging and
certification expected later this year).
10
Logitech Rally Bar Huddle Logitech Rally Bar Huddle is an all-inone, appliance-based videobar for
videobar designed to elevate
8
integrate with Tap IP through CollabOS. Rally Bar
accurate speaker tracking. Purposely designed with
videoconferencing experiences for small and
Huddle builds on existing Rally videoconferencing
beamforming microphones that cover a wider
medium-sized meeting rooms. Certified for
cameras by offering an option for smaller meeting
frequency range, the Videobar 70 provides enhanced
Microsoft Teams Rooms on Android and Zoom
rooms of up to six people and the ability to mount via
noise-reduction and increased speech perception.
Rooms, the Vision 5 empowers frictionless calls and
table, wall, and display.
productive hybrid meetings to medium and large spaces. Specialized microphone arrays are built into the bar to accurately detect where the audio is coming from—both in distance and direction—for
8
huddle spaces and other small rooms. Designed to
EPOS EXPAND Vision 5
deliver equitable videoconferencing meetings, it is
The EPOS EXPAND Vision 5 is an all-in-one
quick to set up, simple to manage, and easy to
10 avnetwork.com // March 2024 // SCN
37
TECHNOLOGY VIDEOBARS
16 11 12
15
14
13
11
camera allows for full HD video up to 30fps with a
13
120-degree field of view, and its Auto Frame
in mid-sized meeting spaces by ensuring equal
feature enables intelligent face detection. The
participation for both in-room and remote
system uses a six-element microphone with a
participants. With 20 MP 4K 95-degree FOV camera
voice pickup range of up to 26 feet, and includes
and innovative audio and video capabilities such as
camera into a singular, efficient device. Designed for
both an 8-watt loudspeaker and a 3-watt low
Poly NoiseBlockAI, Acoustic Fence, and Poly
the diverse demands of modern meeting spaces, the
frequency transducer to ensure crystal-clear audio
DirectorAI smart camera technology, users can
VX20 has HDMI and USB-C inputs as well as wireless
performance with rich low end. The UC S07 is a
expect a premium hybrid meeting experience. The
casting capabilities from Airplay and Miracast
plug-and-play solution for easy operation and
all-in-one design makes setup quick and easy, while
devices. A 4K camera comes equipped with advanced
provides connectivity via its USB-C connector,
users have the flexibility to join the cloud-based
functionalities like presenter tracking and
allowing for BYOD functionality.
video provider of their choice. Plus, IT professionals
AI-assisted adaptive lighting. Additionally, its stereo
can remotely monitor and troubleshoot devices with
speakers and expandable microphone capabilities
the Poly Lens App.
deliver an immersive, room-filling sound, ensuring a
MAXHUB UC S07 Microsoft Teams certified, the UC S07 facilitates easy setup and operation. Its 4K
12
Owl Bar
Poly Studio X52
included. The Cynap Videobar is suitable for up to 10
The Poly Studio X52 videobar is
people in small or medium-sized hybrid meeting
specifically designed for hybrid meeting
rooms and huddle spaces.
environments. It simplifies and enhances meetings
15
WyreStorm Apollo VX20 The Apollo VX20 seamlessly integrates a video switcher, speakerphone, and
meetings even more immersive. The Owl Bar works
14
wirelessly with a 360-degree, center-of-the-room
rooms. It combines Cynap BYOD wireless
camera for a complete front-and-center
presentation technology together with a 4K AI
equipped with a 4K camera, Hexa beamforming
videoconferencing experience. The Owl Labs
camera, beamforming array microphone with
microphone, and full-range speaker for comfortable
ecosystem uses its proprietary, AI-powered
WolfVision Advanced Voice-Processing Engine
and productive remote meetings in huddle rooms
software to automatically switch between cameras
(WAVE), plus premium-quality speaker system from
and offices. Using the positioning data provided from
to capture the best view of in-room attendees,
audio specialist Fohhn. Platform-agnostic BYOM
both the voice and camera pickup, Yamaha’s new
enabling more natural face-to-face conversations
web conferencing functionality enables users to
SoundCap Eye AI technology pinpoints participant’s
between in-person and remote participants.
connect wirelessly to the Cynap Videobar and run
locations and blocks out unwanted background noise
hybrid meetings directly from a laptop. Whiteboard
in potentially noisy environments, ensuring that
and annotation tools, a room booking module, and
everyone in the room can be heard clearly by the
cloud-based remote management software are also
participants on the far end of the call.
The Owl Bar is a standalone front-ofroom camera, microphone, and speaker
that also pairs with the Meeting Owl device and Whiteboard Owl camera to make hybrid
38
SCN // March 2024 // avnetwork.com
WolfVision Cynap Videobar The WolfVision Cynap Videobar is an all-in-one wireless presentation, web
conferencing, and collaboration system for meeting
clear and precise audio and speech experience for all the users.
16
Yamaha CS-800 Collaborate and connect easily with the Yamaha CS-800, a video soundbar
TECHNOLOGY NEW PRODUCTS
Videotel Digital VidBeam Pro The VidBeam Pro provides directional audio precision while enabling immersive sound experiences. Designed to elevate the audio experience, the VidBeam Pro allows users to direct and contain audio within a pre-designated area,
Klipsch Professional Surface Mount Speakers
Bluefin International Flex-OS Series The Flex-OS series of displays offers a blend of
listeners in a virtual cocoon of sound. The
The Professional Surface Mount line delivers
advanced technology, seamless performance, and a
elimination of sound-spill, coupled with delivering
improved sound performance and dispersion, thanks
flexible design, making it an ideal choice for a wide
rich and detailed audio with exceptional clarity,
in part to Klipsch’s new Tractrix Hyperfold Port for
range of digital signage applications. Its thin-bezel
makes the VidBeam Pro ideal for a wide range of
maximum port bass power and new compression
design delivers stunning visuals and reliable
applications in spaces that closely abut one
driver innovations. The PSM series offers convenient
performance. Finished housing is available in a range of
another, such as museums, retail spaces, medical
multi-tap transformers for 70-volt or 100-volt audio
sizes from 27-55 inches, as well as ultrawide options
facilities, hotels, and banks. Intuitive controls can
systems, with a bypass mode that allows regular
from 20.9-49.1 inches. A choice of integrated System
easily adjust the direction and intensity of the
8-ohm operation for installations that do not require
on Chip (SoC) provides powerful processing
sound, making it useful for interactive displays,
a transformer. All PSM Series products employ a
capabilities, simplifying installation and eliminating
while its sleek, modern design with a built-in amp
Phoenix Connector for quick and intuitive connection,
the need for additional hardware. Choices include
blends seamlessly with any environment,
and an IPX6 rating delivers better durability for
Android, Linux, and BrightSign. A future-proof HDMI
enhancing the overall visual appeal of the space.
outdoor performance. With a sleek new look, the PSM
override provides flexibility to use an external
Series is offered in black and white finishes (with
device, ensuring compatibility as future technologies
paintable grilles), and is an ideal fit for hospitality,
improve. The HDMI input also allows for easy
government, retail, universities, medical, and bar/
connection to a variety of devices, making it easy to
restaurant environments.
display content from any source. The Flex-OS series is
eliminating ambient noise to envelop one or more
available with touch and non-touch capabilities.
Key Digital KD-FIX418-2 The third-generation KD-FIX418A-2 HDMI Fixer is a
Lectrosonics BAGFRAME
diminutive connectivity repair and audio
The new BAGFRAME organizers are designed to
de-embedding device that resolves common HDMI
mount portable receivers via specialized accessory
integration obstacles. It offers switchable 4K
kits—and keep those receivers organized in a bag.
downconversion to 1080p to support legacy monitors
Aurora Multimedia SKR-22T-XFR
and projectors, as well as de-embedded digital audio
The lightweight SKR-22T-XFR delivers clear sound
receivers and one for three receivers, and there are
via a TOSLINK optical port. It features fully licensed
with fidelity not normally found on typical ceiling
three heights: S (short), M (medium), and T (tall).
HDCP 2.2 compatibility, deep color support, and
speakers. Its ability to reproduce a 180-degree sound
Kits are shipped ready to be assembled by the
HDR10 and Dolby Vision extended luminance level.
field allows the use of only one speaker in a room for
customers. All BAGFRAME units are constructed of
Key Digital’s Full Buffer System manages TMDS
mono operation. Installation is quick, less costly, and
aluminium alloy, making them sturdy and tough yet
reclocking/signal regeneration, HDCP authentication
less messy, as there is no cutting of ceiling tiles or back
lightweight. The BAGFRAME units use snap-in
to source and display, Hot Plug management, and
boxes to mount. Just drop the tile into a 2x2 ceiling
inserts for all receiver mounting. Some receivers
EDID control handshake. Analog and digital audio
grid and connect the speaker wire. With a full range of
also require screws and mid-frame mounts, so
de-embedding is facilitated through 3.5mm analog
audio, not only do presenters sound clear and crisp,
there are specific parts or mounting kits required to
stereo and optical digital connectors to enable
but the presentation material is produced without
mount the receivers. Audio and data connections
integration of HDMI transported audio into
missing the lows or the highs compared to typical
are all handled per receiver via whatever audio
distributed audio systems, audio DSPs, amplifiers, or
round ceiling speakers. The DTX-AMP25-M can take
outputs or backplates are used on those receivers.
sound bars. The digital audio output supports PCM
line in for analog systems, or add a 25-watt PoE+
stereo audio and Dolby and DTS formats from stereo
Dante amplifier using the Aurora DTX-AMP25-M to
to 7.1 channels.
further complete the room audio solution.
40
SCN // March 2024 // avnetwork.com
Two BAGFRAME widths are available, one for two
NEW PRODUCTS TECHNOLOGY
Shure Microflex Wireless neXt 2 The newest addition to Shure’s Microflex Ecosystem, Microflex Wireless neXt 2 is a two-channel wireless system that offers a cost-effective, intuitive, and all-in-one audio solution for diverse
Barix MultiCoder M400
spaces and hybrid
Barix’s new MultiCoder M400 offers a secure,
environments. It
low-latency IP encoding solution that can send audio
provides high-quality
streams to receive points in four different formats.
Alfalite AlfaArt
audio for spaces of all
For the MultiCoder M400, the enhanced buffering
Alfalite has teamed up with digital artist César Yagüe
sizes that require only two microphones, connecting
performance of Barix’s next-generation FLEXA
to create AlfaArt, a complete turnkey solution
seamlessly to videoconferencing systems for
eliminates all stream buffering within the device—an
consisting of large format LED displays that transform
situations with remote presenters. MXW neXt 2
important benefit given the presence of multiple
entire walls into living canvases, with media players
enables quick and easy integration for different
encoding engines under the hood. This means
and moving ambient artwork, curated and delivered
rooms with an all-in-one base unit that combines an
customers can encode audio into four formats,
ready for enjoyment anywhere in the world. AlfaArt,
APT/charger and advanced onboard DSP, reducing
including OPUS, AAC+, PCM, and 320KB MP3, and
which aims to redefine the concept of luxury through
the amount of hardware required. Users have a choice
send multiple audio RTP/BRTP streams to receiving
digital art, is designed for large corporations, hotels,
of three microphone form factors (bodypack,
devices without delay while retaining exceptional
entertainment venues, and more. AlfaArt offers
handheld, or boundary), each with an added LCD
quality. The MultiCoder M400 pairs well with the
different size and format options. From intimate
high-resolution matrix display for monitoring
recently introduced Exstreamer M400 for customers
personal corners to expansive corporate walls, the
remaining battery life and connection quality. Other
that want to use the AAC+ and/or OPUS formats for
solution adjusts to the dimensions and shapes of each
features include upgraded security, increased
their audio streams. The device also pairs with legacy
location. It also allows for custom resolutions,
dynamic range, up to 28 hours of battery life, and
Exstreamer decoders, so the MultiCoder M400 can
ensuring that every pixel conveys the artist’s vision
comprehensive audio I/O connections, including
serve all existing Exstreamer decoders across a large
and the essence of the work, while the dedicated
USB, Dante, and analog audio.
enterprise organization.
media player provides 24/7 playback.
FIBER CABLES
FLYPACKS & ROAD CASES
FURNITURE
MODULAR FLOOR BOXES
INSTALLATION PRODUCTS
To Advertise in the SYSTEMS CONTRACTOR NEWS CLASSIFIEDS, Contact Zahra Majma at zahra.majma@futurenet.com
For the latest industry news and information, visit us online at
avnetwork.com avnetwork.com // March 2024 // SCN
41
VIEWPOINT
The Burden of Burnout More Than Ever, Pro AV Personnel Need to Manage Stress Effectively By Mel Baglio
When you are completely drained and fatigued,
Inefficacy: Poor Productivity
you may notice it’s difficult to focus or comprehend
Burnout also encompasses a symptom known as
I
the bigger picture. Even simple tasks that used to
inefficacy, which refers to feelings of incompetence,
n 2022, the events industry experienced a
bring joy now seem like a burden, and getting yourself
a lack of achievement, and reduced productivity.
significant demand for staffing, prompting
to and from work might become an arduous task.
When experiencing inefficacy, individuals with
companies to seek top talent. However, as we've
It’s crucial to prioritize self-care and take
burnout feel as though their skills are slipping and
settled in to 2024, the prevalence of burnout has
proactive steps to address and combat exhaustion.
worry that they won’t be able to succeed in certain
reached an all-time high.
Engage in self-care activities that promote relaxa-
situations or accomplish their tasks effectively. This
tion, such as practicing mindfulness, exercising
symptom often develops alongside exhaustion and
reported feeling burned out, compared to 39% in May
regularly, maintaining a healthy diet, and ensuring
cynicism—because individuals experiencing
2021. It is noteworthy that those experiencing
sufficient sleep. Taking breaks throughout the day,
burnout are lacking the energy and connection to
burnout are more than three times as likely to express
even if short, can help recharge your energy levels
their work necessary to perform at their best.
intentions of searching for new job opportunities
and enhance your mental clarity. Additionally,
within the next year.
consider setting boundaries in your personal and
address the underlying causes and work toward
A recent U.S. survey revealed that 41% of workers
Workplace burnout is linked to chronic stress in the
To address this part of burnout, it is essential to
professional life to create a healthier work-life
restoring a sense of competence and achievement.
occupational setting. It occurs when job-related
balance, allowing yourself time for hobbies, social-
This starts by recognizing and accepting that
stressors surpass the restorative abilities of breaks,
izing, and other enjoyable activities outside of work.
inefficacy is a symptom of burnout and not a
weekends, and time off. This state of persistent stress
reflection of personal failure. It is a result of the
can lead individuals to exhibit physical, mental, and
Cyncism: Danger of Detachment
emotional exhaustion because of the pressures they
Cynicism is sometimes overlooked as a symptom of
face in their jobs or workplaces.
burnout but can be just the tip of the iceberg. You can
New data suggests that for almost 70% of
start to disconnect from your work on a psychological
people, their manager has more impact on their
and inefficacy, which together create a potentially
level. Instead of feeling engaged and invested in your
mental health than their therapist or their doctor—
disastrous combination. By acknowledging the
assignments, projects, colleagues, and customers, you
and it’s equal to the impact of their partner.
symptoms of burnout and its detrimental conse-
become detached, negative, and callous.
Engaging in self-care practices that replenish
Symptoms of burnout include exhaustion, cynicism,
quences, people can take steps to prioritize their
This feeling of cynicism can arise from factors like
demanding work environment and the toll it has taken on an individual’s energy and motivation.
energy and foster a sense of accomplishment can be
well-being, establish support systems, and implement
work overload, high conflict, unfairness, and exclusion
instrumental in combating inefficacy. Setting
ways to manage stress effectively.
from decision-making processes. You become
realistic goals and breaking tasks down into
disconnected from the people you serve to the point
manageable steps can help build confidence and
where they lose their individuality. Recent research
restore productivity.
Exhaustion: Unfocused and Fatigued Exhaustion is a big part of burnout, which can
has expanded our understanding of this experience to
manifest as physical, mental, or emotional fatigue.
include negative attitudes toward clients, customers,
supervisors can also provide guidance and
Seeking support from mentors, colleagues, or
It’s important to note that excessive working hours or
or your job, plus irritability and withdrawal or detach-
encouragement to overcome feelings of
a high-stress environment are not the sole causes of
ment from work.
incompetence. Additionally, it is important to
burnout. It can also result from various factors such
Cynicism may manifest as demotivation, pessi-
as lack of managerial support, unfair treatment, or
mism, disengagement, anger, underperformance,
contributing to burnout. Advocating for realistic
even feeling unchallenged in one’s current role. Even
feeling stuck, or loss of trust. Workplace cynicism is not
workloads, clear expectations, and access to
a lack of control over work or scheduling can contrib-
a reflection of personal character flaws or being a
necessary resources can create a more supportive
ute to feelings of exhaustion.
pessimistic person. It stems from the work environ-
and conducive environment for success.
ment. Experts view workplace cynicism and depersonalization as defensive coping mechanisms. Even optimistic individuals can succumb to these
GETTY
SCN // March 2024 // avnetwork.com
Burnout is a complex issue that affects individuals in the events industry and beyond. It can have detrimental effects on both personal
protective measures when subjected to prolonged and
well-being and work performance. It is crucial to
intense stress. It’s best to work to set clear boundaries
recognize and address these symptoms to promote
between work and personal life to achieve a healthier
a healthier work-life balance and prevent further
work-life balance.
negative consequences.
Set realistic expectations and communicate your
42
address the work environment and any factors
Implementing the above strategies can help
needs to colleagues and supervisors. Seek out support
combat burnout and restore a sense of fulfillment
from trusted individuals who can offer perspective
and purpose. By taking proactive measures and
and guidance. If needed, consider seeking professional
prioritizing well-being, individuals can work toward
help, such as counseling or therapy. If the workload is
overcoming burnout and finding joy in their work
overwhelming, discuss workload redistribution or
once again.
delegation with your supervisor, and seek mediation for
Mel Baglio is the former director of operations for
conflicts impacting motivation and engagement.
AV Chicago.