Product Focus: Club Effects
SoftSkies
SoundSpectrum
SoftSkies is a music visualizer and screen saver that produces photo-realistic cloudscapes with color and motion. It features mood-enhancing color designs, patent-pending cloud animation, dynamic imagery, and detailed visual controls. SoftSkies runs as a software plug-in to any media player, as a screen saver display, or as a stand-alone application. Users can customize the software to design their own skyscapes with varying weather conditions and colors palettes. It includes an assortment of color combinations designed in collaboration with Colorcalm Inc. to add atmosphere and complement décor, and it also displays scenic photos as “living images” with animated cloudscapes that create a mesmerizing onscreen experience.
www.soundspectrum.com
Design LED 36
Elation Lighting
Design LED 36 uses RGB color-mixing technology and a 39° beam angle to cover wide stage areas with color washes at short range. Thirty-six long-life Luxeon LEDs (12 red, 12 green, 12 blue) illuminate and highlight stage sets and performers from a distance of about 25' or less. Using four channels of DMX operation, the fixture is small enough to fit into standard 12" box trussing and can be used as a truss warmer or mounted on its own. A special bracket design allows floor mounting. Additional features include a 3-pin XLR serial data connection, built-in power supply, on/off power switch (120V, 60 Hz), 12-position binary dipswitch, master/slave auto program, sound activation trigger, and flicker-free operation. In addition to stage and concert use, the unit is also suited to architectural applications and permanent installs. The 36 colored LEDs and one white LED are rated at 100,000 hours.
www.elationlighting.com
Rerun Upgrade
Doug Fleenor Design
Rerun DMX recorder, a lighting control station capable of storing up to ten 40-minute shows, now has new features. These include Grand Master of show levels, HTP merging of the DMX input, loss of DMX fade-out or hold last look, show-to-show crossfade, button lockout, and end-of-show stop transmission. Shows are recorded by capturing the output of a DMX console. The recorded show start and end points may be trimmed non-destructively, and each show can be set to hold the last look, loop to itself or link to another show. Pressing one of the ten show buttons starts a show. Rerun comes in an architectural version (Rerun-A), a portable version (Rerun-P), and a rackmount version (Rerun-RM).
www.dfd.com
Constellation Centerpiece
Chauvet
Constellation™ is a DMX-controllable centerpiece with six scanning heads that fill dance floors with sweeping beams and gobos. An HMI 575W lamp powers the unit, while six scanning heads cover up to a 73° beam spread. Each head has a gobo wheel fitted with seven dichroic glass gobos, plus an open slot. Some functions, such as pan and tilt, are individually controllable in each head. Others, such as gobo selection, are controlled in opposing pairs of heads. The entire unit can dim, strobe, or be blacked out using the shutter, and it can also be reset remotely. The fixture runs in either a 13- or 19-channel DMX configuration but also performs in stand-alone or sound-activated mode.
www.chauvetlighting.com
ClubSpot and ClubWash 600CT
ROBE Show Lighting
ClubSpot 600CT is based on the Spot 575XT fixture, complete with a 575W discharge lamp, remotely controllable motorized focus, motorized multi-step zoom with three different apertures (15°, 18°, 22°), two color wheels, a static gobo wheel, and a rotating gobo wheel with indexable and replaceable gobos. ClubWash 600CT offers all of the features of the Wash 575XT, including a CMY color-mixing system, color wheel with four dichroic filters and three correction filters, and an effects wheel for additional beam effects.
www.robeamerica.com
Hippotizer Version 3
Green Hippo
The latest release of Hippotizer software features built-in encoding of any digital media file, with no naming issues and no CODEC problems. Users can load the file into Media Manager on the interface, and the Hippotizer automatically prepares an encode that works best, without master encoding software. A built-in programming interface with a timeline eliminates the need for additional gear rental to get a lighting console to run it. Hippo Net allows users to easily control multiple setups, with one server mastering all others, even to the extent of coordinating media moving across all of the collective screen real estate. In addition, complex surface shaping now allows projecting on non-traditional surfaces without additional gear. Hippo's code for warping imagery also minimizes pixel loss and distortion.
www.tmb.com
www.green-hippo.com
Maxxyz/Maxxyz PC Version 2.0 Software
Martin Professional
Version 2.0 for the Maxxyz and Maxxyz PC controllers, as well as Maxxyz OS 2.0, adds new features and updates to the range. Key features include a new graphical user interface, including savable GUI configurations, new window docking, and 16 views per touchscreen. Maxxyz and Maxedia Media Composer also now share the same user interface. Fixture cloning allows users to copy fixtures for expanded lighting systems or to replace fixtures within the show file between different types. An auto-update feature saves selected parameters and timings automatically for all programmed presets, cues, and cue lists, if required. This also allows users to adjust cues backward inside the cue list. With the new menu system, users can load and save show files on the fly from USB and CD. This includes a new automated backup system that saves the show file at specified intervals without interrupting console operation. A console statistics window shows the amount of channels used, groups and cues written, etc., and all settings are now centrally located in an easy-to-browse interface and are logically grouped. Hot-key shortcuts have also been added. Global desk timings allow for a fast override of programmed chase speeds and effect speeds, adding speed to values in the programmer and giving direct manual playback. An improved fixture patch can now be exported into XML format, and the patch window can display each universe graphically. In addition to Ether2DMX, Maxxyz also supports the use of the Universal USB DMX box. Each device adds two universes via USB port. The use of presets in cues can be exported into an XML file. The Maxxyz and Maxedia synchronize thumbnails for fast access to programmed cues on the Maxedia Media Composers. Users can also fine-tune the desired behavior of playbacks, including fader levels, automated release on advancing through the various fader banks, and adjustment of global release times. In addition, overall operation has been improved for playback and programming. The new version is available for download.
www.maxxyz.com
Matrix Switch SNX-64×64
Smart-e Limited
Designed for corporate use, this high-definition-compatible audio and distribution SmartNet matrix switch offers a range of switching and distribution options for all video formats. The system is easy to operate and projects high-resolution images and sound myriad screens and video walls.
www.smart-e.co.uk
LEDart Screens
Osiris
LEDart touring LED screens produce bright images that are visible in direct sunlight. The screens have hundreds of LED units placed in a plastic-injected reticular structure. Each unit contains an LED layer, as opposed to an LCD, built by red, blue, and green diodes. The image reproduced is received via a fiber-optic signal from the Osiris LEDart internal processor. From that processor, the signal is sent to the LED units that use different color combinations to create the final image. The LEDs can also create a harmonious giant image with a 5,000cd/sq-m. brightness and a horizontal visual angle of more than 130°. The LED capacity to withstand wide temperature variations guarantees uninterrupted coverage, even under freezing conditions.
www.osiris-proline.com
240VA UPM
ETA Systems
ETA Systems has introduced the second generation of Uninterruptible Power Manager (UPM) products. As part of the new product line-up, ETA has included two new models rated at 240VA: one for North America (60Hz) and the other for international (50Hz) applications. At 240VA, this product is suitable for use with small digital audio and video editing workstations and computer loads. As with all of ETA's isolation transformer-based products, users get clean conditioned power and a fluid sine wave form when the UPM goes on battery. The battery warranty covers two years and a five-year warranty extends to the electronics. All models are also in full compliance with the European Union's WEEE and ROHS directives. ETA UPMs also meet DOT, NEMA, and FAA guidelines for ensuring transportation safety.
www.etasys.com
Sirius Pro and Sirius Lite
Orion Software
Sirius Pro is a Windows-based, rental-management software that enables control of activities, clients, and inventories while integrating with accounting software packages such as QuickBooks. According to Orion, Sirius Pro features the lowest total cost of implementation in the industry. Sirius Lite focuses on the main aspects of rental management, including quotations, reservations, availability, contracts and invoicing, accounts receivable, and inventory control.
www.orion-soft.com
GoboMan Color Filters
GoboMan
GoboMan has launched a full line of color filters comprising 116 colors available in 20"×24" sheets. The heat-resistant filters are manufactured on a high-grade polymeric base material using a wide range of accurate and consistent colorants. They are also surface-coated for clarity and consistency from batch to batch. The line will use the already well-known European numbering system currently in use. Also new are UV fade-resistant filters for coloring high-output fluorescent lamps.
www.GoboMan.com
S6 Right-Angle
LEDtronics®
S6 Right-Angles are candelabra LED lamps that fit almost any S6 screw base with a right-angle mounting fixture-to-lens setup. They produce very little heat, consume 0.935W, and are available in cool and warm white in both normal and super-bright applications for 120V AC outputs. The normal LED gives off 3 and 2 lumens for cool- and warm-white colors, while the super-bright cool and warm color LED outputs 5 and 3.8 lumens, respectively. The S6 cool white uses 8,000°K LEDs and puts out 13,000 MCD at 17° angles, while the warm white 3,000°K LED puts out 14,000 MCD at 20° angles.
www.ledtronics.com
KDX200
SmartAVI
The KDX200 extends any DVI-D signal, keyboard, mouse, and audio signals up to 250', with minimal loss of image quality. It supports DVI video interfaces and DVI operations with resolutions of up to 1,600×1,200 at 60Hz using STP Cat-5 cables and enables access to one server from multiple remote locations, facilitating data sharing among departments. The KDX200 safeguards the servers by storing them in a secure and climate-controlled environment while still providing access from the production floor. It also facilitates testing and performance evaluation of software and equipment and can be used in multimedia presentations or where presentation information is to be broadcast to various KVM locations.
www.applica.com
www.smartavi.com
RPA Elite™ Projector Mounts
Chief° Manufacturing
Designed as an upgrade to RPA Mounts, the Elite Series includes the same features as the RPA Series — such as independent roll, pitch, and yaw; integrated cable management; and All-Points™ Security — packaged in a new slim design. In addition, new features have been added. New MicroZone™ adjustments allow for fast and precise independent micro-adjustment of roll, pitch, and yaw with the use of a number two screwdriver. This also allows post-installation yaw adjustment of flush-mounted projectors up to 12°. Centris™ Technology allows for macro adjustments using the center of gravity to adjust the projector. The Q-Lock™ Integrated Security System allows quick detachment of the projector from the mount for regular maintenance and easy access to the lamp and filter without losing registration. Custom models are available in black; universal models are available in black, silver, or white. New Speed-Connect™ accessories including ceiling plates, extension columns, and suspended ceiling kits are also available.
www.chiefmfg.com
Special Report: LDI New Sound Products Roundup
M4 Monitor
d&b audiotechnik
The M4 is a compact, two-way stage monitor employing an integrated 15"/1.3" exit coaxial driver with a CD horn and passive crossover network. In its standard 50°×70° dispersion configuration, it provides a precisely defined coverage area onstage. It can be operated in two-way active mode by changing the d&b D12 amplifier's configuration without any modifications to the loudspeaker. It produces 138dB or 140dB SPL when driven in passive or active mode, respectively. In addition, the latest firmware for the D12 and E-PAC amplifiers now includes a dedicated MAX configuration for passive operation of MAX or MAX12 cabinets. The new configuration has a highpass filter, low-end equalization, and an excursion limiter specially tuned for the loudspeakers, providing increased headroom and improved low-frequency performance. The characteristic of the D12 amplifier MAX two-way active configuration has also been modified to provide a similar performance enhancement.
www.dbaudio.com
WS218X SUB
Martin Audio
The WS218X is a high-performance sub-bass system designed to provide maximum bass impact and definition for theatre sound systems, club sound reinforcement, and special effects sub-bass applications. Designed for use with large-scale Wavefront and Blackline systems, the WS218X features twin 1,000W 18" (460mm) drivers capable of reproducing low frequencies down to 35Hz. Each driver employs a magnet structure and is suspension-engineered for maximum linear excursion along with high-temperature 4" (100mm) voice coils. It produces an output of 136dB continuous and 142dB peak. The birch ply cabinet is fitted with six pocket handles and four 4" (100mm) castors for easy deployment. It also features large area porting to reduce air noise.
www.martin-audio.com
D5 Live Console, Version 4
DiGiCo
Version 4 is a new system for the D5 Live console, comprising a combined software and hardware upgrade, with additional upgrades to the rest of the DiGiCo product portfolio to follow. Primary features of the package include extra configuration flexibility, expanded busing and routing options, partial session loading, enhanced onboard effects and graphic equalizers, new snapshot features, additional monitoring functions, augmented aux and group bus control, and additional system options. The hardware upgrade includes a new, non-volatile random access memory board, an upgraded processor board, and new, high-density mini drives. The software, free of charge with purchase of the revised hardware, includes a completely revamped operating system and application software. Highlights include a redesigned hardware configuration panel; refined networking with graphic interface; auto-route inputs; improved auxiliary architecture; a channel presets recall scope; effects presets featuring improved parameter definition, which can be stored and recalled with snapshots; snapshot groups; graphic EQ presets and ganging; enhanced monitoring functions; four new modes for channel snapshot safe; enhanced aux and group bus control; and a Macros panel for quick access to most console functions via keyboard function keys or dedicated buttons.
www.digiconsoles.com
Studer
Vista Series Upgrade
Studer has upgraded the DSP backbone of its entire Vista range of consoles with the introduction of the smaller Score Live DSP platform. The system occupies 6U of rackspace, provides for up to 10 DSP card slots, and can also hold up to 12 I/O cards of various formats and additional GPIO. Like its predecessor, the Performer core, it is user-configurable to maximize the use of DSP in different applications so the user can specify and purchase the optimum amount of DSP for current needs without compromising future production requirements. The System Configuration Editor software, available as an option, allows adjustment of factory-defined settings, including changing the number of input channels, buses, and outputs. The signal flow capabilities within the console may also be changed on an application basis. A new facility in DSP allows delays of up to ten seconds to be added to signals to compensate for video delays through satellite links, etc. The system maintains full redundancy, with redundant power supplies and DSP card redundancy. A redundant link between desk and core is also available, as is a redundant communication card. Score Live uses the highest quality converters with the same processing algorithms with 40-bit floating-point arithmetic as its predecessor for the best resolution at all signal levels, particularly in the AD/DA converter stages. Customers with existing Vista Series consoles can upgrade to the new Score Live. In addition, a new Dolby E card is also available for use with the Vista Series' new DSP core
www.studer.ch
TiMax Track the Actors
Out Board
TiMax Track the Actors is an automatic audio image tracking system developed in a marketing and development joint venture with Norwegian technologists TTA. It comprises a 1'-sq. antenna array mounted in the grid above the stage that receives signals transmitted by small radio tags worn by each actor. The data is fed via Ethernet to the software, which analyzes it to derive positional information about the actors. The software then sends MIDI messages to the TiMax ShowControl software, which outputs level/delay instructions in a system delay matrix to localize the actors sonically to the appropriate zones on stage.
www.outboard.co.uk
www.1602group.com
MPM Range
Soundcraft
The MPM Series of multipurpose mixers are suited for live sound, recording, houses of worship, multi-speaker installations, and other applications and are available in two standard frame sizes offering either 12 (MPM12/2) or 20 (MPM20/2) mono inputs, each model with two additional stereo input strips. The highly transparent GB30 mic preamp, also used on Soundcraft's larger LX7ii and GB Series desks, features high-resolution adjustment over a wide gain range of 55 dB and provides +22dB headroom through the console. Professional 48V phantom power accommodates all types of condenser microphones. Both the MPM12/2 and MPM20/2 are equipped with three auxiliary buses, configurable for use as effects or monitor sends, and all main connectors are professional XLR-type and 1/4" metal jack sockets for maximum reliability. RCA phono connectors are additionally provided for disc and stereo playback inputs and record outputs. Equalization on the mono inputs is 3-band with a swept mid (fixed mid on stereo inputs). All mono input channels have TRS insert sockets, and inserts are also provided on the mix output. High-quality 60mm faders for accurate channel control, an intuitive and comprehensive solo system, and 10-segment LED output metering are included. The monitor output and headphone output work in parallel so performers can listen on phones while an engineer is listening on studio monitors. Each mixer can be converted for rack mounting by adding optional rack rails.
www.soundcraft.com
D-Show Profile
Digidesign
D-Show Profile offers a size-conscious alternative to the D-Show flagship console/controller in Digidesign's Venue line of live mixers. It is compatible with all existing Venue hardware and software, including existing stage and FOH racks for connecting to Pro Tools HD and Pro Tools LE systems via a hardware option, allowing seamless recording and/or playback of sound effects, pre-recorded tracks, music beds, etc. It also offers expanded show control options with the new General Purpose Interface (GPI). Its eight GPI I/Os allow it to send or respond to external equipment via simple switch closures for automation cues, etc. With the new Event List feature in D-Show 2.5, users can build and customize macros that enable the console to perform multiple functions with a single button push, footswitch press, or fader movement. And as D-Show and D-Show Profile operate on the same control software and operating system, users won't have to learn new software or rebuild their console settings from scratch when moving between Venue mixing consoles.
www.digidesign.com