PRODUCT NEWS

Product Focus: Consoles

grandMA pico

MA Lighting

The grandMA pico, specifically designed for theatre use, is similar to the grandMA micro, but with hardware optimized for theatres. A number pad, a Go-plus, a Go-minus, and a pause key are all present, as are one-color touchscreen displays, five manual faders, five physical playback buttons (on 128 pages), 1,024 DMX channels, and free visualization software. It is also possible to connect one remote and up to four grandMA video stations. The console uses the same syntax, windows, and menus as the larger consoles in the range.
www.actlighting.com

SmartFade ML

ETC

SmartFade® ML (the ML is for “moving lights”) is suitable for small touring acts, schools, house of worship venues, industrials, and a variety of other applications. The console features capacity for up to 24 moving lights, an additional 48 intensity channels (dimmers), and the ability to patch to two complete universes of DMX (1,024 outputs). It also includes palettes, parameter “fan,” and built-in dynamic effects, and has a direct-access style of operation designed so students, volunteers, and non-technical staff do not require extensive training. Color-coded backlit keys allow operation without additional worklights. The keys and built-in LCDs also provide status feedback for the rig, without the need for an external monitor.
www.etcconnect.com

Maxxyz Compact

Martin Professional

The Maxxyz lighting console is now available in a Compact version that offers full Maxxyz functionality in a modular, mid-sized design. Maxxyz Compact features four modules: Cerebrum, Programmer, Motorized Playback, and Master. The Cerebrum Module is a complete standalone, embedded and shielded computer system, offering the ability to control up to 32 DMX Universes (four direct, 28 via ArtNet). The Programmer and Playback Modules are to ease creation and running of shows. The Master Module has two faders, Grand Master and Flash Master by default, and features customizable buttons. Maxxyz Compact includes an embedded touchscreen with the option of connecting two additional external screens. It is fully compatible with the Maxxyz Controller Series and networks with Martin's Maxedia media server.
www.martin.com

Rendition Series Consoles

Lehigh

The Rendition Series consoles are for theatre applications and range from two-scene manual to full memory control with multiple cue lists: 24/48 and 48/96 two-scene control models are available with up to 1,536 memory channels in 125, 250, 512-channel configurations, plus 1,024 ML channels. The consoles have two playback pairs, 24 submasters, and trackball control, and include full moving-light control capability with 16-bit fades, LTP, focus presets, predefined ranges, automatic fixture groups, fixture library, and built-in fixture editor. Ethernet is supported for 2,048 outputs using ArtNet or Pathport protocols, and the consoles are also ACN-ready. Additional Ethernet support includes remote video/control and wireless focus remote on PocketPC. The consoles support Cast Lighting's wysiwyg Perform and Perform CE with features for visualization, Auto-Patch, and Auto-Focus control from wysiwyg. A graphical user interface allows either keyboard or mouse point-and-click operation. An industrial processor with Intel core and a Flash-based hard drive power the operating system and onboard show storage. USB Flash key support is provided for show backup and software updates. An offline version for Windows XP can be run with wysiwyg.
www.lehighdim.com

Road Hog

High End Systems

The Road Hog console provides 2,048 DMX channels of control. Two internal touchscreens display data and allow quick access to its many features. The console uses standard Wholehog console hardware and the combination of Windows XP Embedded with the Wholehog operating software. Features include a backlit trackball with four configurable buttons for cursor and position control; 10 playback faders with familiar playback controls; internal hard disk drive; support of USB timecode widget for SMPTE input; removable USB Flash drive; USB ports for Wholehog Playback and Expansion Wings; real-time clock; dimmable desk lights, feedback LEDs, integrated worklight; and auto-ranging mains input (90-250VAC). A cover is included, and an optional road case is also available.
www.highend.com

Isis 2.34

ADB Lighting

Version 2.34 of the Isis software for Phoenix and Mentor lighting consoles now includes cue list functions, allowing up to 96 simultaneous crossfades to be run from any physical or virtual submaster. The operator can include and edit channels and the proportional intensity level of memories in each step of the cue list. Once created, the cue list can be controlled manually or incorporated into playback by using the Link function already in the software. Other new features include the ability to control 16-bit intensity parameters; up to 9,999 fully addressable memories; and an extended part-copy function, allowing the manipulation of multiple fixtures across a given range of memories and the addition and editing of fixtures in a range or sequence of memories.
www.adblighting.com

DiGiCo Plug-Ins

ADK

ADK is providing a recording component for DiGiCo live consoles, offering plug-in capability and simultaneous 56-track recording or 112-track recording, if plug-ins are not required. The Pick ‘n Mix solution also allows users to specify specific plug-in cards for their favorite effects, such as those from Universal Audio (UAD), Waves, and TC Electronic (PowerCore). Recordings are made in industry-standard Broadcast WAV, allowing playback and editing in any software/DAW package. Connection to the console is via two MADI cables for plug-ins, recording, and playback. All channels of playback are instant and via a single button push, with no need to reboot.
www.DiGiconsoles.com

Vi4

Soundcraft

The Vi Series of digital live sound consoles has been extended with the debut of the Vi4, which offers the same functionality and facilities of the Vi6 but in a more compact footprint. The console provides access to 48 inputs on 24 faders, with a total of 27 output buses available for use as masters, groups, auxes, or matrices. All other features of the Vi6 — Vistonics II touchscreen user interface, FaderGlow fader function display, and audio quality — are inherited by the Vi4. Also available on the Vi4 is the new Processing Card option, which adds eight assignable Lexicon effects sections, together with 30-band BSS Audio graphic equalizers available on every output.
www.soundcraft.com

Lighting:

Stackers Tapered Top Hats

City Theatrical

Stackers Tapered Top Hats feature a patent-pending design that allows them to stack neatly on a shelf, but a ridge on the top hat prevents sticking regardless of pressure applied. Black-flocked interiors reduce light bounce, and round frames allow rotation of half top hats to the most advantageous angle. Twenty varieties are available, including diameters of 6", 7", 10", 12", and 14" in full, half, short-full, and short-half styles.
www.citytheatrical.com

AR-32 DMX Recorder/Playback System

Elation

Designed to mount on the wall, the AR-32 Architectural DMX recorder/playback system produces light shows downloaded from any standard DMX controller. The system comes factory-programmed for LED fixtures operating in 3-channel or RGB mode, and it can also control automated moving lights and DMX-compatible dimmers and power packs. Programs and scenes recorded into the controller are played back in one of three ways: automatically via a built-in date/time clock; on command using a DMX controller or the included infrared wireless remote; or via a manual trigger. The unit can store eight shows of up to four pages each, for a total of 32 show locations. The system comes with Editor Software, allowing linking to a PC via USB input for editing. Additional features include power-failure memory and 3-pin XLR DMX I/O. The unit can be mounted using a single gang box or on a tabletop. The complete system includes a controller, power supply, wireless remote control, software, an RJ-45 LAN cable, and a Cat-5 power supply cable.
www.elationlighting.com

LitePad

Rosco

Rosco LitePad is a slim (0.3"-thick) profile light source that generates a soft, even beam of light and almost no heat. Drawing just a few watts of power, it is suitable for use in film, television, theatre, live entertainment, retail, and event lighting. With a color temperature of 7,000°K, it features a lamp life of 100,000 hours. Available in six sizes — 3"×3", 3"×6", 6"×6", 3"×12", 6"×12", and 12"×12" — the units are sold individually and include a simple 12V transformer. A complete kit is also available that includes two each of all six sizes.
www.rosco.com

Toru Followspot

Selecon

Toru, a member of the Performer Series followspots, delivers the same performance and features as the wider angle Rua (9°-16°) and Tahi (18°-24°) models, but outputting 100 footcandles at 280'/4° and 100 footcandles at 170'/8°. Straightforward layout of operational controls includes black-out iris, mechanical douser, cutters, CTO, and frost. Features include flicker-free electronic power supply, dimming to 50% of its output, and an exhaust system.
www.seleconlight.com

Vue

Chauvet

Vue is a line of portable, DMX-controllable, LED-fitted beam effects. A Fresnel-style lens condenses the light from each LED in the array and then projects it in the form of individual beams and spots, similar to a standard moonflower but with more control. All models are DMX-controllable or will operate in standalone mode. The low power consumption allows running of multiple units on a single circuit. Vue I is the smallest and lightest in the series and is fitted with 84 red, green, and blue LEDs, each creating its own beam. Vue II features 183 LEDs (60 red, 36 green, and 66 blue), a larger frontal lens, and linkable power. Vue III has seven individually controllable clusters of 67 LEDs, for a total of 469 LEDs, each projecting an individual beam (280 red, 63 green, 126 blue). As with the Vue II, these can be daisy-chained. Average life is 100,000 hours.
www.chauvetlighting.com

XC Series

Lightronics

The XC Series is a line of compact dimmers featuring a wireless DMX option, LED, 4- and 6-channel capacity, 600W and 1,200W per channel, soft patch (each dimmer), dimmer limiting, dimmer curve/relay selection, DMX operation, built-in Chase function, “set and forget” intensity, architectural interface, and AMX/Crestron interface. The units are covered by a full five-year warranty.
www.lightronics.com

Blues System

TMB

The Blues System is designed for backstage lighting applications in the working theatre. The system comprises two dimmable fixtures, plus optional controllers and accessories. BlueDome is a wide-angle, dimmable LED fitting for low-level applications such as stairwells, lobbies, wings, and seating areas. BlueBeam is a narrow-angle dimmable LED fitting for high-level installations, including loading galleries, upstage crossovers, scene docks, and under fly floors. Blue Beams are available in 5°, 10°, or 20° beam angles and are effective from 1' to 50'. Both Dome and Beam are available in non-dimmable versions for emergency lighting and other applications. The fixtures are IP67-rated. Available accessories include various baffles, louvers, and J-box adapter plates. Blues System is manufactured in the UK by Global Design Solutions Ltd.
www.tmb.com

Video/Projection:

Sync Processor

Analog Way

Sync Processor is an interface that adapts computer signals to monitors, screens, projectors, and other video-display devices requirements. It automatically detects the input synchronization signal and converts it to SOG, HV Composite, or separate H and V. It can handle most input formats and synchronizations (RGsB, RGB/S, RGB HV). The synchronization type of signal can be independently set on each of the two outputs. Features include a 400MHz bandwidth, high-quality cable-loss compensation, universal automatic input sync processing, and universal built-in power supply. The unit is also a booster/equalizer. A high-resolution video signal (on BNC) can be driven on a BNC output up to 300m/1000'.
www.analogway.com

Media Fusion

Robe

Media Fusion is video software aimed at lighting designers wanting to incorporate video into their designs. It plays a variety of video file formats and processes them through a large number of effects. The software provides access to video loops and pictures, available through 256 banks of 256 visuals. It can also use connected video inputs (e.g., live cameras) as a media source. Features include the ability to enter text messages used to customize Macromedia Flash files; setting up of the interface between computer and DMX lighting desk; use of multiple projectors with soft-edging or keystone correction; simultaneous play of eight layers with optional effects; and preview of active media, layers, and final compositions. The software can run from a laptop if the DMX console is not present, and is suitable for live productions, TV, clubs, theatres, museums and retail, trade shows, and architectural applications.
www.robe.cz

HDMI-X Fiber-Optic Extender

Rapcohorizon Company

The HDMI-X fiber-optic extender is designed for high-definition multimedia in applications as video wall systems, large LEDs, and TV broadcast. It includes an HDMI transmitter and receiver and an external 12V power supply adapter. It also contains a variety of HDMI equipment cables: four-strand 50/125 fiber cable, Cat-5e cable, and HDMI cable, all of which can be terminated at a specific length. Additionally, it allows transmission of uncompressed digital video and audio up to 100m and can also be applied to Widescreen Ultra eXtended Graphics Array format. While maximum suggested run for conventional HDMI cables is no more than 50', the unit allows for transmission up to 330'. The extender is DDC line-compliant and meets HDCP standards.
www.rapcohorizon.com

Staging/Rigging:

Prism2 Flame Projector

Le Maitre

The Prism2 Flame Projector is the sequel to the company's original Prism system, but smaller and lighter, with similar performance. Using Magic Corona fluid and compressed air, the unit can shoot colored flames up to 15' high. Up to four fluid bottles can be housed inside the unit, allowing the user access to any color or combination on demand via DMX. Available colors include green, red, blue, yellow, purple, and orange.
lemaitrefx.com

Sound:

UPJunior

Meyer Sound

UPJunior, a self-powered Vario loudspeaker, is suitable for an extremely broad range of applications, including A/V presentations and small to medium-sized main sound reinforcement systems, as well as fill, delay, effects, under-balcony coverage, stage monitoring, and distributed systems. The unit combines the advantages of self-powered systems with the placement and arraying flexibility afforded by a rotatable 80°×50° Vario horn. The horn's constant-Q design provides uniform response throughout the coverage area. The loudspeaker delivers a peak power output of 126dB SPL at 1m, making it suitable for use either as a single, primary loudspeaker or within multi-cabinet horizontal and vertical arrays. The low-mid frequency section features an 8" neodymium magnet cone driver, while the high-frequency section uses an efficient 0.75" exit, 2"-diaphragm compression driver. As a self-powered loudspeaker, it offers integral amplification, complex crossover, driver protection, and frequency and phase-correction circuitry onboard. It exhibits flat frequency and phase response across its operating range of 65 to 20kHz. Metric M8 threaded points allow simple mounting using either eyebolts or third-party pole assemblies. QuickFly® rigging options including the MAAM-UPJunior array adapter, MUB-UPJunior U-bracket, and the MYA-UPJunior mounting yoke assembly. Other options include weather protection and custom color finishes for applications requiring specific cosmetics.
www.meyersound.com

PRO850, DX200 Accessories

HME

HME offers new accessories for its wireless intercom systems: the RAK850 remote antenna kit and the RMK850 and RMK200 rackmount kits. The RAK850 system is a practical, low-cost solution for PRO850 installations experiencing RF reflections and dropouts. With the RAK850, the antennas for the PRO850 wireless intercom system are relocated up to 30' away from the base station to help overcome environmental conditions that interfere with reception. The rackmount kits fit into a rackmounted configuration, enabling the antennas (which normally would be mounted to the back of the intercom's base station) to be fitted on the front of the rack panel, clearing reception path by overcoming the metal rack unit walls. The RMK850 and RMK200 are 1U panels that match the size of the base station.
www.hme.com

SC28 System Controller

QSC

Housing preset tunings developed expressly to optimize the performance of QSC loudspeakers, the SC28 system controller is a 2-input, 8-output DSP device, offering user-adjustable EQ and delay. The unit is rooted in 48kHz, 24-bit A/D and D/A conversion technology with 32-bit, floating-point DSP with wide dynamic range and low distortion. Balanced, line-level, analog XLR connectors are provided at all inputs and outputs, while all DSP tunings incorporate IIR (Infinite Impulse Response) and FIR (Finite Impulse Response) filtering. System tunings can be selected by scrolling through a list of loudspeakers found on the front LCD panel and selecting the desired configuration (two-way, three-way, etc.). A nearly identical process is used to select amps and input sensitivity. New tunings can be loaded into the controller via a USB port found on its rear panel. Integral 6-band parametric equalization can be added along with high- and low-shelving filters, and signal delay. Fully password-protected, the unit also provides thermal and excursion loudspeaker protection, as well as a channel-linking feature that can be used to select linked or independent control of stereo channel settings.
www.qscaudio.com

Iconyx IC7

Renkus-Heinz

The self-powered IC7 and externally powered ICX7 Iconyx array modules are both passive linear arrays with fixed beams that can be steered mechanically. These supplement Iconyx Digitally Controlled Array Systems in venues needing side- and front-fill coverage. The IC7 is self-powered, and the ICX7 is designed for use with an external amplifier. Both feature seven high-performance 4" coaxial transducers in an architecturally transparent enclosure. The self-powered version incorporates a purpose-designed PF Series Intelligent Digital Amplifier with a switching power supply and integrated speaker-specific processing.
www.renkus-heinz.com

BF151

Alcons Audio

A member of Alcons' B Series, the BF151 is a front-loaded bass system for both permanent and portable applications. Featuring a single 15" long-excursion high-power woofer (with vented double-spider frame), in combination with Alcons' proprietary Signal Integrity Sensing pre-wiring, the BF151 is designed to deliver accurate bass response.
www.alconsaudio.com

Smaart v.6 ForPC, Mac

EAW

Smaart v.6 sound system measurement and analysis software for PC and Mac is available for download at the EAW Website and can also be purchased as a physical software package via the standard EAW dealer and distributor network. It features a rewrite of its underlying architecture that enhances multitasking, in addition to a new streamlined interface and full compatibility with Macintosh OS X. The software is now built from a unified cross-platform source base with near-complete parity between Mac OS X and Windows versions, in addition to working with Core Audio and ASIO drivers. It can also receive multichannel inputs via ASIO under Windows or Core Audio on Mac OS X, and simplifies the hardware setup requirements for operating a multi-microphone Smaart measurement rig. The new version has increased capability for storing, recalling, and displaying a virtually unlimited number of reference data traces such as frequency response and RTA. All captured measurements are now stored directly to the hard drive. Advanced trace averaging capabilities have also been added.
www.eaw.com

Sound Template

Stage Research

The Sound Template, developed by sound designer Shannon Slaton and available from Stage Research, features specs and sizes of more than 40 of the most widely used theatrical speakers from manufacturers including Meyer Sound, d&b, Apogee, and EAW. This ½"-scale template includes audio symbols, specs, and measurements, as well as all steps and formulas for placing speakers. Users can draw a speaker; use pattern angle and compass holes to draw the sound field; use speaker specs — dB loss and watts to dB — to predict SPL at a certain distance from a speaker; add delay speakers; use distance to predict delay; and predict combined SPLs.
www.stageresearch.com