Sound Technology Installed Audio Newsletter September 2014

TECHNOLOGY

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I NS TA L L E D AUD IO N E WS

S U MM E R 2014

BSS introduces Soundweb Contrio networked control and audio distribution platform

The Soundweb Contrio platform and its two initial products, the Contrio server and Contrio Wall Controller range, are the first within the Soundweb Contrio family that will ultimately provide enhanced system control capability and audio routing flexibility for a variety of applications.

Significantly, these and all future Soundweb Contrio products will be backward compatible with existing BSS Audio Soundweb London devices, providing the widest and most comprehensive choice of audio processing, distribution and control devices available in a single system solution today.

CONTRIO SERVER At just 1U rack space, the Soundweb Contrio server is powered by an embedded iteration of HARMAN’s HiQnet™ software. It provides advanced system control, system management and media server functionality at a central point of the network.

It offers a comprehensive logic and scripting environment, enables system self-healing and error

management, networked audio message playback and system-wide preset and media scheduling.

WALL CONTROLLERS The Contrio wall controller lineup features four models that, in addition to advanced multiple zone control, can easily be employed in a room-combining and splitting environment.

The controllers are available in white or black, US and EU form factors and provide visual feedback for endusers to easily manage and adjust audio operation in a specific environment.

For more information please call us on 01462 480000. > http://bit.ly/1ro6Vn5

BSS Contrio wall controllers ship in September and will be available to fit EU and US wall plates

JBL expands AWC outdoor speaker range JBL Professional has expanded the popular AWC range with the AWC159 and AWC15LF compact all-weather loudspeakers.

Designed to deliver world-class sound quality and high SPL capability for outdoor applications, the AWC’s widerange, smooth frequency response and high sensitivity ensure high-fidelity music reproduction and superb

projection of clear, intelligible speech.

The AWC159 is a compact, 15-inch, 2-way coaxial loudspeaker with compression-driver high frequency, while the AWC15LF is a 15-inch low-frequency loudspeaker designed for outdoor applications where additional low frequency is required.

Both can be operated as direct low-impedance (8 ohms) or on a 70V or 100V

distributed line via built-in 300 Watt low-saturation, multi-tap transformers.

Components are highly weather-treated and a 3-layer grille with vapourbarrier backing minimizes direct rain contact with the system transducers.

and swimming facilities, as well as for arenas, general public address and a variety of other indoor and outdoor applications. > http://bit. ly/1tu8AUV

The IP-56 outdoor rating and wide frequency response makes them ideal for projects such as racetracks, stadiums, theme parks, fairgrounds, skating rinks

JB L AWC loudspeakers at Preston North End FC. Installer: TG Baker

TECHNOLOGY

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JBL expands Control 40 and Control 60 series JBL Professional has added the Control 45C/T to the premium Control 40 series. The two-way 5 1/4” coaxial ceiling loudspeaker is designed for applications that can benefit from extremely wide bandwidth and very consistent coverage from a ceiling speaker with a small footprint.

Crown launches world’s first AVnu Alliance® certified AVB amplifiers Crown has expanded its DriveCore Install amplifier range with the introduction of the DCi Network Display 8|600ND and 4|1250ND models, featuring front-panel status displays and AVB connectivity.

The new eight- and four-channel amplifiers will be the first professional audio amplifier to be certified by the AVnu Alliance.

prietary DriveCore amplifier IC chip for powerful, highly efficient operation from a compact form factor measuring just 2U high.

Like all Crown DCi Series amplifiers, the DCi 8|600ND and DCi 4|1250ND utilize HARMAN’s pro-

The DriveCore chip combines the amplifier driver stage into the power output stage along with additional audio-signal functions, yet is about the size of a postage stamp. The DriveCore-based Class D, next-generation PWM design dramatically reduces size and power consumption and yields much more energy-efficient operation.

> http://bit.ly/1mpNmTX

> http://bit.ly/1oUSpBi

Two new AKG tabletop microphones for wireless use AKG has introduced a pair of tabletop microphone solutions for wireless use.

The CBL31 WLS and STSDAM+ WLS are based on heavy-duty tabletop mechanics and accept AKG pocket transmitters - including the WMS40/45/420/470 and DMS700 - to transform the stations into complete wireless solutions.

The CBL31 WLS includes the well-known cardioid CK31 capsule from the DAM Series while the STSDAM+ WLS is designed to accept AKG DAM+ Series modular gooseneck microphones, including the GN15/30/50M and CH41/43/49.

Also new is the Control 60 P/T subwoofer, part of the popular Control 60 series. With a 150W power rating and 8” driver, the Control 60 P/T provides bass extension and impact in a pendant format and has 8 ohm and 70/100V inputs. A built-in passive crossover allows for up to four satellite speaks to be connected to the Control 60 P/T.

Both models offer a rugged mute switch and LED bar to clearly show mute status. A 3.5mm input allows connection of external sources such as the AKG CBL410 or computer audio output.

> http:// http://bit.ly/1tu8ufQ

Crown DCi certification Crown Audio now offers online certification for its DriveCore Install (DCi) Series amplifiers.

Available free of charge, the program offers instruction covering Crown’s DCi Analog, Network and Network Display amplifier models and information about the company’s exclusive DriveCore technology that is at the heart of the amplifiers’ powerful and efficient operation.

The course is available online at: crownaudio.com/usa/drivecore-install-series.html.

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> http://bit.ly/1hg7iJO

Crown Audio cinema amplifiers and processor Crown Audio has announced two new amplifiers and a monitor-crossover processor for the cinema market.

The XLC2800 and XLC2500 incorporate DriveCore™ technology for high efficiency and although extremely powerful at 775W and 500W per channel respectively, are lightweight and measure only 2U rack spaces high.

It provides tunings for a number of JBL cinema loudspeakers, on-board monitor speakers and a fault detection system which integrates into Theatre Management Systems. HD-25 connectors and HD-15 connectors all for quick and hassle-free connectivity. > http://bit.ly/1wdbbb6

Designed for easy installation, the XLC2800 and XLC2500 feature Power, Signal, Clip and Fault indicators and limited front panel control, with volume controls for each channel on the rear panel.

The CXM2000 is a Cinema Monitor and Crossover System that is compatible with XLC amplifiers.

01462 480000| info@soundtech.co.uk | info@soundtech.co.uk | www.soundtech.co.uk 01462 480000 | www.soundtech.co.uk

JBL Commercial DriveCore™ Powered Soundcraft ViSi Mixer/Amplifiers now shipping Remote update JBL Commercial has announced its six Commercial Series Amplifiers (CSA) and two Commercial Series Mixers (CSM) are now shipping.

The CSA amplifiers use Crown’s proprietary DriveCore amplifier IC offering significantly reduced power consumption, size and weight while delivering outstanding sound quality.

manufactured under HARMAN’s GreenEdge initiative for increased energy efficiency and lighter weight while delivering topquality performance. CSA amps and CSM mixers conform to lead-

The CSA and CSM line-up combines outstanding value and performance and fulfils the need for small, affordable, easy to use sound reinforcement in retail and other applications where an elaborate A/V installation isn’t required.

The CSM mixers are simple to set up and use, with a minimum of front panel controls and illuminated rings around the knobs for easy visibility.

free RoHS standards, use recycled copper, aluminium and steel from factory processes and benefit from additional environmentall conscious manufacturing procedures. All CSA products are also ENERGY STAR® certified.

HARMAN GREENEDGE JBL Commercial components are

> http://bit.ly/1pNG2Gr

Soundcraft has released ViSi Remote V2.1 for iPad. The update adds several new features including: • Gain and 48V control • Channel & Bus metering • Gate & compressor graphs • Meters page with fader jump • Vi3000 console support

ViSi Remote 2.1 is compatible with all Vi, Si Expression, Si Performer and Si Compact consoles and is available to download for free from the Apple App store now. > http://bit.ly/1tkQG8K

AKG introduces new infrared language distribution system Ideal for conferencing, tour guide and assistive listening applications, the new CSX IRS10 offers 10 channels of digital infrared transmission and uncompromised security.

The heart of the system is the CSX BIR10 breakout box. It takes either the channels of an AKG CS5 system or any other 10 channels fed to it and modulates them on the infrared carrier. Two new radiators, designed for different room types, transmit the IR light into the room; a floodlight for lower ceilings and a spotlight to cast the IR signal a greater distance.

The receivers offer jog dial selectors for channel selection and headphone volume level, both of which plus battery status, are shown on an OLED display.

A charging/storage case for 50 units is available to charge the 2700mAh NiMh rechargeable batteries (up to 20 hours operation time). > http://bit.ly/1AB30nR

TECHNOLOGY

Sound Technology demo facility Sound Technology boasts a 4000 square foot demo facility at our offices in Letchworth Garden City, providing an environment for installers, consultants, resellers and hire companies to listen to a comprehensive selection of the Harman Pro product portfolio.

For more information or to arrange a visit please call us on 01462 480000 or email info@soundtech.co.uk

01462 480000 | info@soundtech.co.uk | www.soundtech.co.uk

AKG launches new digital wireless microphone system AKG has introduced the DMS Tetrad digital wireless microphone system, which includes several advances in technology to improve performance and reduce dropouts.

Ideal for a variety of applications ranging from concerts and clubs, to conferences, this 2.4GHz license-free wireless system offers uncompressed audio transmission, superior RF performance and 128-bit AES standard encryption.

With 24bit, 48kHz audio coding, DMS Tetrad provides uncompressed studio-quality transmission and a linear frequency response, for uncompromising vocal and instrumental performances. The DMS TetraD’s 128-bit AES standard encryption prevents tapping of the audio signal, which makes it a perfect solution for high-security conferences. > http://bit.ly/1v1fxRl

AKG’s DROCON technology, exclusive to DMS Tetrad, radically improves performance and stability

DROCON - How DMSTetrad is getting the drop on dropouts DMS Tetrad operates in the 2.4GHz bandwidth, a popular but crowded frequency range among those looking for worldwide license-free operation, competing with an array of other wireless equipment, including Wi-Fi routers and an ever-expanding array of Bluetooth devices. To prevent interference, the DMS Tetrad uses three key countermeasures: Dynamic Frequency Selection: When interference is detected, the system automatically jumps to a different channel; Time Diversity: Automatically detects a lost signal and asks the transmitter to resend it; Antenna Diversity: Two antennas are included with the system and it switches between the two to select the antenna with the best reception.

As effective as these are, they’re not foolproof and sometimes a dropout sneaks in. To handle those rare occurrences, AKG developed a technology that can accurately extrapolate the missing signal to conceal the dropout and thus prevent the clicks they can cause.

Called DROCON, for DROpout CONcealment, it requires a mere two milliseconds to simultaneously process all four of the DMS Tetrad system’s channels and has only a marginal impact on the receiver’s power consumption. With addition of AKG’s DROCON technology, even the occasional dropout won’t compromise a performance.

Twin Soundcraft Vi1s and BSS Soundweb at LSE Student Centre LSI Projects has installed two Soundcraft Vi1 consoles and a BSS Soundweb digital audio network at the new Saw Swee Hock Student Centre in central London.

LSI specified three fixed configuration BLU-100’s to route signals throughout the seven storey building over BLU-Link, BSS Audio’s proprietary low-latency, fault-tolerant digital audio bus. Together with discreet BLU-3 wall panel remotes, this allows local source selection and volume control on every floor.

The two Vi consoles are installed in the centre’s nightclub and live music venue, together with a 64-in/32out MADI Vi Stagebox and since the Student Union contains a radio station as part of the building they will be able to use the MADI link for broadcast/record purposes should the need arise.

Free certified BSS Soundweb training from Sound Technology Sound Technology offers free BSS Soundweb training for our customers.

We run two courses - Introduction to Soundweb London, and Soundweb London Advanced - every month.

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Please visit www.soundtech.co.uk for upcoming dates and to register to attend

> http://bit.ly/1q2yDC7

TECHNOLOGY

01462 480000 | info@soundtech.co.uk | www.soundtech.co.uk

New dbx feedback suppressor dbx has announced the AFS2 Advanced Feedback Suppression processor, designed to completely eliminate feedback from a PA system.

The AFS2 is ideal for bands, DJs, live sound and fixed installation applications and offers a host of upgraded features including a Wizard auto-setup function, a completely re-designed Advanced Feedback Suppression module, and a large LCD display. > http://bit.ly/1s4p2dp

JBL expands EON 600 Series JBL Professional is adding two new models to its EON600 Series: the EON610 (10” 2-way) and the EON612 (12” 2-way) loudspeakers. Along with the previously introduced EON615 loudspeaker, the EON610 and EON612 deliver high-end studio monitor quality sound in a rugged, lightweight design.

Both feature built-in, 1000-watt power amplification, custom JBL high- and low-frequency transducers and a breakthrough approach to waveguide design that controls the sound radiation at the high frequencies, the crossover point, and at the low frequencies. > http://bit.ly/1s4nO1S

Need free advice for any audio installation project?

Please contact our Project Team on 01462 480000

Crown DCi at hub of new Wimbledon upgrade RG Jones Sound Engineering installed Crown multiple Crown DCi amplifiers at the All England Lawn Tennis Club ahead of this years’ Wimbledon tournament.

The upgrade was necessitated by the relocation of the PA room in the Broadcast Centre and in total 16 fourchannel network amplifiers — a combination of DCi4x300N and DCi4x600N — were deployed, as well as new Soundweb London BLU-160 DSPs. “The ability to network the amplifiers alongside our existing Soundweb system has already proven extremely useful,” said RJ Jones’ Jon Berry.

Photo credits: Tim Speight

“Having in-depth, instantaneous monitoring of the amplifiers and circuits themselves allows us great amounts of control and response.

“And by sitting on existing Blu-Link rings we are able to reduce analogue cabling while improving on the redundancy and security of the system.

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The success of this solution at Wimbledon has given RG Jones the confidence to subsequently specify the DriveCore Install amps in various other applications. > http://bit.ly/1qtpHmD

01462 480000| info@soundtech.co.uk | info@soundtech.co.uk | www.soundtech.co.uk 01462 480000 | www.soundtech.co.uk

Vi3000 enjoys immediate success in installation and rental sectors

Soundcraft’s next generation Vi3000 digital console has successfully entered the rental and installation sectors within the UK, with Adlib supplying the first installation desk to the University of Liverpool’s Guild of Students — one of a suite of Soundcraft consoles and racks supplied to the Students Union as part of an extensive refurbishment of its technical facilities.

With MADI and Dante fitted as standard, and swappable I/O ports available, the Vi3000 eliminates the need for venues such as Liverpool Uni to hire in additional outboard to meet the needs of touring engineers.

With 96 mix channels, the Vi3000 is the first Soundcraft console to incorporate a Dante interface as part of extensive connectivity, with a full complement of analogue and digital I/O’s and upgraded DSP. UA PLUGIN INTEGRATION The console also accommodates the new Soundcraft Realtime Rack, designed in collaboration with plugin manufacturer Universal Audio, that provides access to 74 industrystandard UAD plug-ins. > http://bit.ly/1v1gf0L

JBL VTX V20 line array presented in London With the arrival of the new JBL Professional VTX V20 line array system in the UK last month, UK distributor Sound Technology Ltd hosted a listening event at LH2 Studios London presented by the designer of the system, Paul Bauman.

An impressive number of leading UK rental companies, engineers, installers and audio consultants were in attendance to see and hear the next generation line array which features numerous technical innovations and extraordinary attention to detail designed for touring sound and fixed installations.

Visitors were able to listen to the system and evaluate the consistency of its coverage pattern in the huge LH2 rehearsal space.

The demonstrated system consisted of two hangs of eight VTX V20 dual 10” line array elements with a total weight of approximately just 350 kg per array. Eight VTX S25 subs and three VTX S28 subs were ground-stacked, with the S28s in cardioid configuration. Three VT4886 sub-compact line-array elements were added as front in-fills. > http://bit.ly/1qtpQXl

TECHNOLOGY

01462 480000 | info@soundtech.co.uk | www.soundtech.co.uk