product pick of the month

Martin Maxedia Media Server

Maxedia, Martin Professional's entree into the world of media servers, is capable of handling digital media ranging from images, video, 3D graphics, etc., output as a video signal to video/plasma screens or any type of video image projector. With a stocked media library for access to special effects, Maxedia incorporates 3D effects and mapping (bitmap or video), real-time layer manipulation, and various playback and real-time transition effects. The system includes integrated DMX control, providing full control of both lighting and video elements. It runs up to a maximum of 20 layers simultaneously, depending on the type of layer.

One interesting feature of Maxedia is its ability to manipulate images in real-time, without the need for offsite editing. Real-time changes appear instantly with no delays. Effects such as ocean scenes for example can be manipulated various ways — intensity of wave, waveform change from peak to smooth, etc. — all edited on the Maxedia in real time, producing effects ranging from a quiet, smooth stretch of water to a thunderous storm. Effects are then saved as a preset cue, ready for immediate playback.

Programming is done on the system itself, as opposed to using DMX alone, and playback is then completed via DMX. However, programming and playback can be done without the use of a DMX lighting console. No more than 25 DMX channels are used.
MARTIN PROFESSIONAL
AARHUS, DENMARK

WWW.MARTIN.COM
WWW.MAXEDIA.COM
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ETC Emphasis Version 1.8.0 Software

ETC has unveiled Version 1.8.0 software for the Emphasis lighting control system. This release is part of the ETCNet2 Version 4 Suite, compatible and interoperable with other Net2 products. Emphasis v1.8.0 includes many new features, including added support for moving lights like ETC's Source Four® Revolution.

This release boasts Dynamic Effects, allowing users to quickly create effects like ballyhoos, figure eights, color and iris chases for moving lights, using a combination of fixture lists, dynamic templates, and editable parameters. The new Source Four Revolution library files and dedicated encoder setup option is designed to make Revolution set-up even easier.

The new Emphasis Offline Editor (EOE) v.1.8.0 runs on a PC and provides the ability to edit show files offline. EOE does not require a WYSIWYG dongle, so anyone can use it. WYSIWYG users using WYSIWYG Report, Design, or Perform dongles will benefit from the increased visualization functionality. This first release will be file and feature compatible with Emphasis v1.8.0 and is available as a software kit or can be downloaded. EOE requires WYSIWYG Release 8 to be installed on the PC, but again, no WYSIWYG dongle is required.

ETC has also improved the key layout on the facepanels. The Dimmer key on Express, Expression®, and Insight facepanels is now a softkey. A new Fixture hard key allows faster access to automated fixtures. The Tracksheet key on Expression and Insight facepanels has been replaced with a Spreadsheet key. This allows immediate access to Spreadsheet functions that were only available before from the Blind display. New labels and replacement keys are available and will be included with all v1.8.0 software upgrade kits.
ETC
MIDDLETON, WI

WWW.ETCCONNECT.COM
CIRCLE 101 ON READER SERVICE CARD

Clay Paky Alpha Series

Clay Paky has introduced the Alpha, a new line of 575W moving head professional fixtures. Described by the manufacturer as bright, lightweight, highly practical and virtually silent, these new fixtures are designed for any professional, architectural, and show business environment. The Alpha Spot HPE has a new optical module with a 10°-40° zoom and fully electronic focusing. CMY color mixing is augmented by a seven-position plus white color wheel and a linear CTO for gradual color temperature correction. In addition to three gobo wheels, the Alpha Spot HPE also has a “fast clamping” graphic disc, which allows for the quick transition to other graphic effects discs and can be used in conjunction with any or all of the gobo wheels to enliven projection effects.

The Alpha Spot is an economical version of the HPE. It has a 15°-35° zoom and, like the Alpha Spot HPE, has fully electronic focusing. It is fitted with two, seven plus white color wheels and two wheels of six easily interchangeable, indexable/rotatable gobos.

Alpha Wash features a bright and efficient optical unit that's coupled with a 4°-80° zoom. CMY color mixing is augmented by four position plus white color wheel. Congo blue and a deep saturated red are supplied as standard, leaving the additional two slots open for custom colors. A linear CTO for gradual color temperature correction completes the color system.
CLAY PAKY AMERICA
VALENICA, CA

WWW.CLAYPAKYAMERICA.COM
CIRCLE 102 ON READER SERVICE CARD

SGM X-Line Idea

SGM has introduced the X-Line Idea, a new family of moving heads which offer great reliability plus a stylish and modern design. The Idea line is made of four models, fitted with 250W or 575W discharge lamps: Idea Spot 250, Idea Wash 250, Idea Spot 575, and Idea Wash 575. The Idea Spot 250 has a 13° beam angle (18° and 21° on request); Idea Spot 575 has three selectable beam angles (13°, 18°, and 21°). Idea Wash 250 and Idea Wash 575 are equipped with a motorized zoom that allows linear beam adjustment between 13°-23° (Wash 250) and 16°-28° (Wash 575).

Thanks to the motorized focus (Idea Spot 250 and Idea Spot 575), projected images can be kept in focus at any projection angle and from any distance. Idea Spot 250 and Idea Spot 575 are fitted with a color wheel comprising eight colors plus white with dichroic filters with high chromatic yield. Idea Wash 250 and Idea Wash 575 offer a CMY color generation system integrated by a color wheel with six colors plus white, and two conversion filters (3.200°K and 5.600°K), designed to enable a wide range of colors. The Idea Spot 250 and Idea Spot 575 gobo group consists in a wheel containing seven gobos (two dichro and five metal) which can be rotated in both directions and are indexable; all of them are easily interchangeable. Besides the built-in gobos, five additional metal gobos are supplied.
SGM
TAVULLIA, ITALY

WWW.SGM.IT
CIRCLE 103 ON READER SERVICE CARD

SOUND

Alcons LR16B Bass System

Alcons has introduced the LR16B high-output bass-system, designed for both permanent and portable applications, intended to serve as a low-frequency extension to the LR16 line-array speaker module, in both flown and stacked configuration.

The main focus with the development of the LR16B was to get the highest efficiency possible, within the weight/size parameters set by the line-array application. A flown application means the system is placed in “full-space” conditions, which brings a substantial reduction (-3dB) of output, versus a “half-space” stacked application. In order to achieve a higher efficiency than the conventional front-loading arrangement, the long-excursion 15" drivers are double-vented, double-tuned in a band-pass loading configuration. The resulting true 102dB (1W/1m, full bandwidth 46-200Hz) efficiency, in combination with the 3200W power handling, brings a 137dB peak SPL from the cabinet.

As the LR16B is primarily designed to be used in flown applications, special attention has also been paid to the weight of the system; the cabinet is made of 15mm/0.6" birch wood with bracing for a lightweight yet rigid construction. The drivers are two long-excursion 15" woofers with Neodymium magnet structures and low power-compression design.
ALCONS AUDIO BV
ZWAAG, THE NETHERLANDS

WWW.ALCONSAUDIO.COM
CIRCLE 104 ON THE READER SERVICE CARD

Lake Technology Mesa Quad EQ

Lake Technology Ltd. has introduced the Lake Mesa Quad EQ, a 4×4 digital matrix processor designed for use in standalone or networked concert sound, recording, mastering, and broadcast studio applications. Incorporating the same advanced DSP-based equalization, delay, and dynamics processing tools found in the Lake Contour digital speaker processor, including the asymmetrical Mesa Filter function, the Lake Mesa Quad EQ is also supported by the Lake Controller software in its latest release, Version 3.0.

In addition to shelving and parametric filters, all four discrete channels of the Lake Mesa Quad EQ feature Lake's powerful EQ Overlay processing, which may be configured to provide both Lake Mesa EQParametric Overlays and Ideal Graphic EQ Overlays according to the demands of the situation. A virtually unlimited number of EQ filters may be implemented.

The Lake Mesa Quad EQ offers four independent channels of galvanically isolated 24-bit, 96 kHz converters. As standard, each channel features an analogue in-put and output in addition to AES/EBU digital I/O. Inputs may be selected as digital or analogue in pairs, with assignment of any combination of inputs to outputs handled by a 4×4 matrix. All eight outputs — four digital and four analogue — are available simultaneously, allowing the unit to be used as a distribution matrix if desired.
LAKE TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
SAN FRANCISCO, CA

WWW.CONTOUR.LAKE.COM
CIRCLE 105 ON READER SERVICE CARD

CAD equitek2 Mikes

CAD's equitek2 condenser mikes, designed for recording and live sound applications, include the e1002 condensor, the e602 instrument and the e3002 large diaphragm condenser. The e1002 supercardioid electret condenser features an extended frequency response of 10-18 kHz; dynamic range of 132dB; total harmonic distortion of less than 0.15%; high output capability of 148dB SPL with pad; transformerless balanced output circuits; and an internal power reservoir system. The e1002 has a single capsule for the single supercardioid polar pattern, and the e2002 employs twin capsules for producing three patterns (supercardioid, omnidirectional, and figure 8). The e3002 features a large diameter (1.1") externally biased, dual diaphragm capsule for producing three polar patterns (cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure 8).
OMNITRONICS LLC
MENTOR, OH

WWW.CADMICS.COM
CIRCLE 106 ON THE READER SERVICE CARD

Meyer MILO 120 Speaker

Meyer Sound Laboratories is now shipping the new self-powered MILO 120 high-power expanded coverage curvilinear array loudspeaker, a variation on the standard MILO. The MILO 120 provides 120° of horizontal and 20° of vertical coverage and is intended for situations requiring curvilinear arrays with wide horizontal and vertical coverage. Lower profile arrays of MILO 120 can be built with only a few elements.

MILO 120 is optimized for the shorter throws and lower SPL of downfill applications, and is designed to be the perfect downfill complement to standard MILO or M3D line array cabinets, as well as performing well in other fill applications that can be satisfied by one or two cabinets.

MILO 120 is designed to be used in conjunction with the 700-HP ultrahigh-power subwoofer or the M3D-Sub directional subwoofer. Optimal performance is obtained when the MILO 120 is driven with Meyer Sound's LD-3 compensating line driver.

QuickFly® rigging hardware and Meyer Sound's RMS remote monitoring system are included standard. The MILO 120 cabinet shares the same dimensions as the standard MILO model to facilitate seamless integration with a MILO or M3D array.
MEYER SOUND
BERKELEY, CA

WWW.MEYERSOUND.COM
CIRCLE 107 ON READER SERVICE CARD

Atlas Sound QR-2 Adaptor

Atlas Sound has unveiled the QR-2, a new quick-release adaptor. The two-piece design uses a ball bearing interconnect designed to save set up and tear down time in touring applications. For installation the QR-2 assembly is threaded between the 7/8" tube and base of the mic stand. After the show, the technician simply steps on the low profile outer release ring of QR-2 allowing the entire upper tube assembly to be separated from the base saving the time consuming operation of unscrewing the base/tube for storage.

The QR-2 is constructed of durable machined steel and finished in black chromate to blend in perfectly with the top of the mike stand base for an unobtrusive onstage look.
ATLAS SOUND
ENNIS, TX

WWW.ATLASSOUND.COM
CIRCLE 108 ON READER SERVICE CARD

Magix Audio Cleaning Lab

Magix has introduced Audio Cleaning Lab 2005, designed for cleaning and burning analog and digital music and audio from a variety of sources, including LPs and cassettes, downloaded MP3 music, and soundtracks from old VHS tapes. Audio Cleaning Lab takes music from any source and removes unwanted noise, enhancing for sharpened fidelity and clarity, and adding special effects like 3D sound. The flexible program allows as much control as the user desires: from fully automatic for fast, effortless results to complete manual control for customized sound. Simply select a track and a cleaning or re-mastering problem preset from the drop-down menu. These presets can be customized and saved for batch-processing future projects, or the manual draw mode can be used for more detailed removal of individual scratches.

Other features include software pre-amp for LP recording without additional hardware pre-amplification; recording timer for scheduling recording events at a more convenient time; automatic volume adjustment for leveling playback volume across all tracks; and surround sound effects.
MAGIX ENTERTAINMENT CORP
MIAMI BEACH, FL

WWW.MAGIX.COM
CIRCLE 109 ON READER SERVICE CARD

STAGING

Le Maitre Power Fog Industrial

Le Maitre's newest addition to its fog machine family is the Power Fog Industrial, designed for theme parks and other similar installations. Utilizing a 1,400W heater block that incorporates Le Maitre's award-winning Rapid Change Technology (RCT), the machine is capable of continuously producing large volumes of fog. A two-channel DMX Interface is also standard. The unit is enclosed in a stainless steel shell.
LE MAITRE SPECIAL EFFECTS
LONDON, ON, CANADA

WWW.LEMAITREFX.COM
CIRCLE 110 ON READER SERVICE CARD

American Harlequin ConfiDance

The most recent addition to American Harlequin Corporation's product line is called ConfiDance, a concentrated liquid rosin which can be used on wood, tile, linoleum — virtually any hard surface. ConfiDance slows down a dance surface to guard against slippery spots on the floor. It can be diluted slightly for very slippery surfaces, or diluted heavily for surfaces that need just a bit of traction. Although Harlequin's traditional dance vinyl roll floor is slip-resistant, the company says there have been many requests to provide a liquid rosin for hardwood and tile floors. ConfiDance is sold in one-gallon containers; it will make a minimum of 21 gallons and up to 35-40 gallons depending upon the strength.
AMERICAN HARLEQUIN
MOORESTOWN, NJ

WWW.HARLEQUINFLOORS.COM
CIRCLE 111 ON READER SERVICE CARD

Navigator Systems RentalDesk NX

Navigator Systems has unveiled the RentalDesk NX Rental Management System. RentalDesk NX sports a new server system that is designed to enhance the speed of the system over a network and on single user systems. It also allows an increase in the number of simultaneous users from three up to five. Enhanced graphical overviews of the company's schedule give the user more information in a less cluttered environment. Warehouse operations now allow the user to check equipment out or in with or without barcodes or through an intuitive check out/in system. RentalDesk NX's advanced report designer also gives the user greater control of all printed forms generated within RentalDesk NX. A new email client allows the user to create quotes in RentalDesk NX and email an Adobe Acrobat® PDF to the customer, all from within the program. RentalDesk NX also features new documentation, including a new help file with exact steps for the user to follow. Greater control over billing and collecting money has also been included, and an improved interface to QuickBooks© Accounting has also been improved.
NAVIGATOR SYSTEMS
BATH, UK

WWW.NAVIGATOR.CO.UK
CIRCLE 112 ON READER SERVICE CARD

Pro Co Sound ProCat Cat5 Cable

New from interconnect manufacturer Pro Co Sound, ProCat Cat5 cable is intended primarily for live and other portable applications in need of a flexible category five cable for distances up to 80 yards. Constructed of four color-coded twisted-pair 24 AWG stranded copper conductors, ProCat is engineered to meet all compliance specifications of standard Cat5 solid copper conductor wire for all uses. Both inner and outer jackets are specially constructed to increase the diameter and feel of the cable so you can work with it like the most flexible and supple microphone cables built. ProCat is available in bulk as well as custom and standard lengths, and terminations including RJ45 to Neutrik Ethercon, RJ45 to RJ45, or Ethercon to Ethercon
PRO CO SOUND
KALAMAZOO, MI

WWW.PROCOSOUND.COM
CIRCLE 113 ON READER SERVICE CARD

Neutrik A/B Series XLR Connectors

Neutrik has introduced a new series of five-pin, A/B series XLR chassis connectors with an integrated switch. These five-pole XLR receptacles can be used for audio, lighting, and industrial purposes and are offered with vertical PC contacts. Since the switch is activated when the plug is inserted, it is possible to indicate, monitor, and control mated connections. The switch provides a normal open and normal closed contact, with a current rating of 100 mA and a voltage of 12V dc. These XLR receptacles have the same features as the standard A/B series in both male and female configurations. The A series comes equipped with plastic housing while the B series has a metal ring for additional RF protection. The XLR switch connectors will be offered under these part numbers: NC5FAV-SW, NC5MAV-SW, NC5FBV-SW and NC5MBV-SW.
NEUTRIK USA
LAKEWOOD, NJ

WWW.NEUTRIK.COM
CIRCLE 114 ON READER SERVICE CARD

PROJECTION

Folsom Encore Control System

Barco Events has introduced the new Folsom Encore video processing and control system. The system provides source selection, advanced windowing features, switching, video effects, and integrated control for professional video presentations. Both seamless widescreen and independent display applications are supported. Designed for a multitude of show sizes, the system is fully scale-able to efficiently support from one to 32 screens.

The Encore Video Processor incorporates universal analog and digital video inputs. The Encore Video Processor is packaged as a 3RU rack-mount unit. Up to three mixer/effects boards may be populated in the system. Each M/E provides all mixing and keying functions for the associated layer. Motion adaptive de-interlacing is provided for both standard and HD source video. The incoming videos are processed by the Barco Folsom Athena scaler, a proprietary scaler that supports real-time window size and position control coupled with low transport delay. Two un-scaled background channels provide a high-resolution backdrop that also supports seamless transition and keying effects.

The controller controls one or more Encore Video Processor units as needed for a specific show. The controller provides fully integrated control of real-time events and can be used with Barco's Events Manager software to synchronize operation with external devices and pre-programmed show sequences. The controller runs on an embedded real-time operating system (RTOS) to provide high reliability, rapid power-up, and true real-time performance for video processing sequences. Addtionally, the controllers support integrated control of matrix switchers and video source devices.
BARCO EVENTS USA
SACRAMENTO, CA

WWW.EVENTS.BARCO.COM
CIRCLE 115 ON READER SERVICE CARD