Product News

PRODUCT PICK OF THE MONTH

Technical Design Solutions for Theatre The Technical Brief Collection Volume 2. By Ben Sammler and Don Harvey ISBN: 0240804929, 320 pages, with 220 illustrations, $39.99

The Yale School of Drama's Technical Briefs, published three times a year, are single-focus articles on technical production solutions that have long been a source of useful information for technical directors. This second volume is an ongoing collection of the Technical Briefs in a handy book format. The book is written by Ben Sammler, chair of the Department of Technical Design and Production at the Yale School of Drama and Don Harvey, adjunct professor at Yale School of Drama. This is a must-have for every technical director's technical library. It provides a great reference of tips and solutions to unique technical challenges. The primary objective of the publication is to share creative solutions to technical problems so that fellow theatre technicians can avoid having to reinvent the wheel with each new challenge. The range of topics includes scenery, props, painting, electrics, sound, and costumes. The articles each describe an approach, device, or technique that has been tested onstage or in a shop by students and professionals.
Focal Press, a division of Elsevier Science/Harcourt
Burlington MA
WWW.BHUSA.COM/FOCALBOOKS
CIRCLE 100 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

SONIC ENHANCEMENT

Architectural Acoustics, a division of Peavey, introduces the SES 212 Sound Enhancement System. Designed to increase the sonic performance of program audio in commercial audio systems, it uses innovative technology to improve low-frequency audio and overall acoustic imaging of audio sources. The SES 212 is designed for applications such as background/foreground music, where space limitations often prohibit the use of high-performance loudspeaker systems. The single-rack space, two-channel SES 212 includes extensive front panel controls including level, width, and low frequency performance. A separate subwoofer output and level control offer even more flexibility.
Architectural Acoustics, a division of Peavey Electronics Corporation
Meridian, MS
HTTP://AA.PEAVEY.COM
CIRCLE 101 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

LIGHT AS A FEATHER

Countryman introduces the Isomax E6 EarSet headset microphone, a combination of beautiful form and outstanding sound in a package so small it's all but invisible. Light and springy, the unit clips around your ear, not around your head, so it doesn't interfere with hairstyles, headphones, or hats. This unit has high-quality audio, good rejection of feedback and unwanted sounds, is extremely light and stable on the head. It is available in light beige, tan, cocoa, and black and in three sensitivities: normal speaking, theatre, and loud vocals. High-frequency response can be adjusted by changing the provided protective caps. A detachable cable is easy to replace and the mic comes complete with a belt clip and windscreen.
Countryman Associates, Inc.
Redwood City, CA
WWW.COUNTRYMAN.COM
CIRCLE 102 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

PACK LIGHT

ETC introduces the SmartPack, a portable and low-cost dimmer pack. This 19", two-space rackmount unit houses either six 2,400W or twelve 1,200W channels of dimming. SmartPack does DMX and is ready to upgrade to DMX512A and RDM (remote device management). With built-in presets and a sequencer, it can run on its own, without a console. You can change from single- to three-phase operation easily and it is noiseless. For extreme versatility and convenience, SmartPack offers a full range of output connectors (Edison, Stage Pin, Twist-Lock®, Neutrik PowerCon®, Japanese C, Socapex-compatible, Harting, TenBe, Schuko, and C-Form 16A) along with multilanguage capability as standard options. SmartPack is UL/cUL-listed and CE-marked; available in six voltage and current ratings for all global markets.
Electronic Theatre Controls, Inc.
Middleton, WI
WWW.ETCCONNECT.COM
CIRCLE 103 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

FITS TO A “T”

I. Weiss introduces FlexiT, a revolutionary new modular mounting system designed to quickly and easily create straight or curved configurations in places where ordinary pipe and drape isn't enough. Use a single pole for an advertising banner, or several uprights to create a unique curved exhibit booth, studio backdrop, or simple room divider. The unique double-clamping cross support allows for two panels to be mounted back to back, creating a double-faced exhibit capable of 360° viewing. And best of all, it's portable! A one- or two-pole system fits in the convenient carrying bag. Set up instant display environments wherever you go.
I. Weiss & Sons, Inc.
Long Island City, NY
WWW.IWEISS.COM
CIRCLE 104 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

SPORTY AND COMPACT

Innova SON is introducing the Compact Sy40, a new digital mixing console for live performance. The Compact Sy40 digital console is configured with 40 input channels and 27 mix buses offering far greater mixing capabilities and enhanced functionality. As a standalone console it supports 40 inputs and 16 outputs through 47 faders: 32, including eight stereo, for the 40 input channels, 12 stereo mix buses, plus three for the mono LRM/C masters. If linked to the Innova SON Stage Box, the Compact Sy40 can be expanded to up to 72 inputs and 48 outputs. The Compact Sy40 allows users to configure the precise physical I/O of the console specifically for each event.
Innova SON, a Digigram company, distributed in the US by Sennheiser Electronic Corporation Old Lyme, CT
WWW.INNOVASON.COM
WWW.SENNHEISERUSA.COM
CIRCLE 105 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

WIND ME UP

Jeamar is introducing its extended line of wide center winches. This new line can be electrically, hydraulically, or air-powered. An extensive range of options are available such as controls, limit switches, dual brake systems, plain or grooved drums, pressure rollers, and more. This new line is designed and built to the client's specific requirement with line pulls and speeds to suit. All models conform to the most stringent worldwide standards.
Jeamar Winches Inc.
Buffalo, NY
WWW.JEAMAR.COM
CIRCLE 106 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

SWIVEL ON AROUND

Kee Industrial Products announces the addition of three new swivel fittings to its expanded line of Kee Lite® aluminum fittings for railings, lighting grids, racks, and shelving, guard rails, and other tubular pipe structures. Constructed of high-grade aluminum silicon magnesium, the swivel fittings are strong, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant. Designed for use with 1¼" and 1½" standard pipe, they include model L19 to form variable angle joints between 60° and 200°; model LB54, designed as an in-line variable angle connection, adjustable from 45° to 200°; and model L114, an internal swivel fitting to accommodate varying angles and when used with other Kee Lite fittings, it eliminates the need for specialty or drilled angle fittings.
Kee Industrial Products, Inc.
Buffalo, NY
WWW.KEELITE.COM
CIRCLE 107 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

BYPASS OPERATION

Le Maitre introduces the Show Fogger Pro, a mid-range water-based fog machine in a lightweight and rugged chassis. The unit's modified heat exchanger provides huge, continuous fog output. This machine features Le Maitre's new Rapid Change Technology (RCT), which now allows you to quickly and easily make a capillary tube change on the fly, with its innovative RCT heat exchanger design. This design overcomes a fog machine's biggest service issue — a plugged heating block, due to normal wear and tear. All you need is 15 minutes, a crescent wrench, a Leatherman, and a compact, lightweight RCT tube replacement kit (included free with the Show Fogger Pro), and your fog machine is as good as new.
Le Maitre Special Effects Inc.
London, ON, Canada
WWW.LEMAITREFX.COM
CIRCLE 108 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

PUMP UP THE VOLUME

Listen's new LR-100 Stationary Receiver/Power Amplifier is a stationary auditory assistance receiver with a built-in power amplifier. When used with a Listen transmitter, the LR-100 can deliver high quality audio for use in a variety of locations. The built-in 44W power amplifier can be used to either amplify the receiver audio, or it can be used independently. The LR-100 also has Listen's standard 57 channels, 100% digital tuning, and can be rackmounted. Comes with a rear-mounted 90° helical antenna LA-123 or LA-124.
Listen Technologies
Sandy, UT
LISTENTECH.COM
CIRCLE 109 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

AREA 51

Mach introduces the Alien 51; a recessed speaker that complements Martin Professional's architectural recessed color changing light, the Alien. The speaker system is designed for high quality sound reinforcement applications in a compact and discreet design. Useful in a wide variety of applications, the 110° acoustic coverage pattern ensures even sound pressure and tonal balance throughout the coverage area. Alien 51 comes with a software program that calculates the number of speakers needed in a given venue.
Martin Professional A/S
Aarhus, Denmark
WWW.MACH.DK
CIRCLE 110 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

THROWING A CURVE

Meyer announces two new models to its line array family. The M1D Ultra-Compact Curvilinear Array Loudspeaker is designed for PA applications in small venues and single-cabinet applications that require tight vertical pattern control (such as under-balcony fill systems). The M2D Compact Curvilinear Array Loudspeaker brings numerous advantages to mid-sized venues that require tight vertical pattern control with long throw. To assure smoothest response in the critical midrange, the M1D and M2D incorporate a complex crossover design. At the lowest frequencies, both cone drivers combine to reproduce powerful, coherent bass. In the mid frequencies, the crossover feeds only one of the two drivers. This technique eliminates interference between the drivers that would otherwise occur at shorter wavelengths, and maintains optimal polar and frequency response characteristics.
Meyer Sound
Berkeley, CA
WWW.MEYERSOUND.COM.
CIRCLE 111 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

BLEND IN

NeoStrata markets CoverBlend by Exuviance, a line of medically developed concealing treatment cosmetics with exclusive, patented technology. CoverBlend conceals and corrects all types of visible skin imperfections — from minor flaws to major discolorations — while providing anti-aging treatment, antioxidant properties, and SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen protection.
NeoStrata Company, Inc.
WWW.NEOSTRATA.COM
CIRCLE 112 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

SOARING TOWERS

Penn Fabrication announces its new TowerLift line of portable crank-up stands. The line offers seven models ranging from the portable TE-03 lift, which can elevate 220lbs up to 12', to the heavy-duty model TE-076Pro, which lifts 440lbs up to 21.6'. For larger requirements, Penn offers the Magnum TowerLift, which can elevate lighting structures, audio systems, shelters, and small roof systems from ground level up to 23.5' with a capacity of 66lbs.
Penn Fabrication
Maplewood, NJ
WWW.PENNFABRICATION.COM
CIRCLE 113 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

IN A FIX

Quentor introduces the Q-Fix range of flight cases. From the outside they may not look too different, although a closer look reveals a new level of accuracy of manufacture. This is because the cases utilize a new, patented construction system offering unique, high-strength and quality assembly. The cases are available in standard sizes or custom-built in almost any size, style, and color. Weight-saving Q-Fix Cases are ideal for many applications within the AV, broadcasting, and entertainment industries. The range includes trunks and racks, together with more specialized cases for lighting, cameras, and other AV equipment. Q-Fix Cases are available assembled or as a flat-pack system, making them ideal for distributors or for users where space is at a premium.
Quentor Limited
Norfolk England
WWW.QUENTOR.COM
CIRCLE 114 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

WHIRLING DERVISH

Rosco introduces the Vortex 360°, a gobo rotator that can rotate one or two steel or glass gobos at a fixed or variable speed. It has a transformer-plug, which will fit into either an ordinary wall outlet, or with an adapter, into a dimmer. The speed of rotation can be set through a switch adjustment on the plug or by raising or lowering the dimmer. Its fits such ellipsoidal fixtures as the ETC Source Four, the Altman Shakespeare, the Strand SL, and the Selecon Pacific. A silent motor gear drives both heat-resistant, stainless-steel, gear assemblies. Even at full speed, the Vortex 360 is so quiet it can be used anywhere. The Vortex 360 can be used at 100-120VAC or 200-240VAC, user selectable with a switch on the transformer/plug.
Rosco Laboratories, Inc.
Stamford, CT
WWW.ROSCO.COM
CIRCLE 115 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

FASHIONABLE TECHIES ARE WEARING…

SCOTTeVEST introduces the SCOTTeVEST Version 2.5 to help people manage and carry a multitude of gadgets and peripherals. The first product line to incorporate the patent-pending Technology Enabled Clothing (TEC) system, the vest integrates aspects of technology, luggage, and apparel to allow people to discreetly hold, conceal, and connect several electronic devices including cell phones, pagers, PDAs (personal digital assistants), and CD/MP3 players.
SCOTTeVEST LLC
Chicago, IL
WWW.SCOTTEVEST.COM
CIRCLE 116 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

NEW MODEL YEAR

Vari-Lite introduces the Series 3000, a new line of 1,200W luminaires. The line includes the VL3000 spot and the VL3000 wash. The spot features an output that exceeds 20,000 lumens. The wash features an output of 35,000 lumens, and the wash unit features the same beam-spreader technology found in the VL2000 wash (formerly the VL2402 wash) luminaire. Both luminaires feature CYM color mixing, a separate fixed color wheel, variable CTO, and dimmer and strobe mechanisms. The spot has a beam-size iris, two rotating gobo wheels, and a rotating effects wheel. The unit also has a zoom range of 6:1. The packaging of the VL3000 fixtures are identical, providing a consistent hang configuration and look no matter which luminaire type is required. Also, the VL2000 spot was formerly the VL2202 spot.
Vari-Lite, Inc.
Dallas, TX
WWW.VARI-LITE.COM
CIRCLE 117 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

NEW BOOK

Illustrated Theatre Production Guide. By John Holloway. ISBN: 0240804937, 328 pages, 700 illustrations, 53 halftones, $34.99

Another must-have for your technical theatre library is the Illustrated Theatre Production Guide, by John Holloway, an associate professor and technical director for the Theatre Department at the University of Kentucky. It is aimed at the undergraduate level and community theatre technical director. This guide takes a step-by-step approach to many common theatre production practices and covers important issues related to the construction of wooden, fabric, plastic, and metal scenery used in the theatre. The guide contains a brief history of physical theatres and the development of various forms such as thrust, proscenium, and black box venues. Operation of theatre equipment is covered in the chapters on rigging and curtains. Instructions for operating a fly system and basic stagehand skills such as knot-tying and drapery folding are clearly outlined. The use of metal tubing as a structural element is explored as an alternative to wooden scenery. The chapter on lighting discusses electrical theory as well as the practical aspects of hanging and focusing lights. The final chapter is a compilation of many different projects that are easy to approach and to complete, and have practical value for a theatre group.
Focal Press, a division of Elsevier
Science/Harcourt
Burlington, MA
WWW.BHUSA.COM/FOCALBOOKS
CIRCLE 118 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

A BROAD PALETTE

Apollo Design Technology introduces the Comspec II color mixer, which allows designers to easily and quickly create any desired color. The re-engineered Comspec II now features 9.5" front and 7" rear apertures for optimum light output, a universal mounting plate to fit 6.25", 7.5", and 10" color frame slots, two long-life gel strings for smooth color progression, a built-in heat blocker for extended gel life, two-mode, user-friendly operation, and a compact three-speed, two-fan design that provides quiet operation. Apollo supports the Comspec II color mixer by also offering power supplies, replacement gel strings, and after-sale service.
Apollo Design Technology, Inc.
Fort Wayne, IN
WWW.INTERNETAPOLLO.COM
CIRCLE 119 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

SOLDER ON

The Artful Solderer. By Lee Tingler ISBN 0-9171307-0-9, 39 pages. Photos, illustrations, index, $19.99

From Lee Tingler, the person who brought you the Solder Buddy®, comes The Artful Solderer, a booklet about the art and techniques of soldering. This is a handy compendium of all things soldering and the booklet is designed to stand up on your workbench so you can follow along with many how-tos and practice projects to improve your soldering, as well as being a handy reference for the more advanced solderer. The booklet is aimed at the beginner as well as the more experienced solderer. Sections include thoughts on craftsmanship, safety practices, choosing your tools, wire connection prep, making great connections, splices, oxidation, problem-solving, and more.
T.I. Press
Flowery Branch, GA
WWW.SOLDERBUDDY.COM
CIRCLE 120 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)

POCKETFUL OF COOL

The X-PEN is a cool tool that can check DMX512 protocol and serve as a flashlight at the same time. The combination of testing tool and flashlight in one device will make technicians happy when hanging off a truss trying to diagnose DMX issues. You turn the X-PEN on and off without a switch. It shows seven LED segments of indicators of DMX and it helps to differentiate between DMX lines. The LED for the flashlight is inside in the XLR connector. It doesn't matter where the problem is, with the X-PEN you will always have one hand free. The unit comes in a miniature case with X-PEN, a lanyard, and a lithium battery. Leather belt holders are also available accessories.
LDDE Vertriebs GmbH
Vienna, Austria
WWW.LDDE.COM
CIRCLE 121 ON READER SERVICE CARD (P. 24)