InfoComm ’09 Products: Audio
Yamaha amps and mixers, Audio-Technica’s newest lavalier mic, Lectrosonics new audio networking family, more
POWER AMPLIFIER
New at InfoComm ’09
INTERCOM SYSTEM
Clear-Com’s new Tempest2400 wireless intercom system operates in a license-free frequency band where there is little interference from other wireless devices. By using 2.4 GHz frequency-hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) in conjunction with TDMA technology, the Tempest2400 RF scheme avoids the need for licensing and frequency coordination, according to the company. Additionally, once the device is registered to a base station, the beltpack needs no further configuration and roams freely within a single zone. The new system features 2xTX Transmission Voice Data Redundancy, which sends each packet of audio data twice on different frequencies and through different antennas. It also can cooperate with other Clear-Com systems and includes the iSelect roaming feature, which allows the beltpack user to move from one zone to another. Clear-Com Communications. www.clearcom.com.
PAGING STATION
The new PS16 paging station from Barix uses modular audio-over-IP technology. Integrating a variety of professional features, the PS16 includes a flexible gooseneck microphone, a 1-watt loudspeaker, a 2 x 24-character backlit LCD, and 16 user-definable push buttons with LED indicators. Power can be supplied over Ethernet or a conventional wall plug. The system’s iMaster application offers features like group call, public address broadcast, per-location audible call identifier, remote relay operation, and unattended mode operation, in which operators can record an unattended message for automatic answering of calls. The standard unit can be scaled with Barix’s expansion modules to support larger installations. Barix AG. www.barix.com.
LOUDSPEAKERS
QSC’s new K Series includes a collection of compact, lightweight, powered loudspeakers. The series combines a molded ABS enclosure, uniform drivers, advanced DSP, and the company’s touring spec amplification, and uses the same 1,000-watt Class D amplifier module to power all four models. The K12 is a 12-inch two-way system with 75-degree horizontal and vertical coverage. Low frequencies extend to 48 Hz (-10 dB high acoustic output, 131 dB peak). The K10 10-inch loudspeaker shares the same amplification, HF device, and LF driver as the K12, but offers a 90-degree conical coverage and 129 dB peak output. The K8 has a 105-degree-wide dispersion, with low frequencies extending to 61 Hz (-10 dB) and a 127 dB output. The KSub dual 12-inch subwoofer comes with an M20 threaded pole socket for a secure method of elevating a mid-high speaker over the sub. QSC Audio Products. 800-854-4079. www.qscaudio.com.
LAVALIER MIC
Audio-Technica’s latest lavalier microphone is the company’s smallest to date, according to A-T. The BP896 Subminiature Omnidirectional Condenser Lavalier Microphone is intended for capture of high-quality audio and accurate reproduction for broadcasters, lecturers, house of worship users, actors, and presenters. The capsule measures 2.5 mm in diameter and the microphone operates on phantom power. Complete with an accessory kit, the BP896 comes in black and beige wired and wireless models. The subminiature omni element is enclosed in a low-profile housing with internal construction designed to minimize noise from handling, clothing, and wind, says the company. Several application-based models are available. Audio-Technica. 330-686-2600. www.audio-technica.com.
InfoComm ’09 Products: Audio
Yamaha amps and mixers, Audio-Technica’s newest lavalier mic, Lectrosonics new audio networking family, more
MATRIX PROCESSING
Lectrosonics is introducing its new ASPEN (Audio Signal Processing Expansion Network) product line with support for TCP/IP control over Ethernet, unlimited input expansion, a real-time clock, 48-channel matrix bus, 1 Gbps expansion port, and true 48-volt phantom power for all inputs. Products in the series are RoHS-compliant and include the SPN812, SPN1612, SPN1624, and SPN2412 matrix processors; the SPNConference unit for teleconferencing; the SPNTrio all-in-one teleconferencing processor with power amp; the SPN16i and SPN32i input-only modules; and the SPNPower12 multi+channel power amplifier. All units employ the ASPEN port with 1 Gbps throughput capability for audio and control data on a single Cat-6 line. Lectrosonics. 505-892-4501. www.lectrosonics.com.
LINE ARRAY
New at InfoComm ’09
The X1M-P line array from WorxAudio is a member of the TrueLine Series and features two-way performance and a 1-inch exit compression driver. A FlatWave Former wave-shaping device delivers high frequencies over a predictable and controlled coverage area. Dual 8-inch neo drivers pair with an Acoustic Intergrading Module to minimize cone filtering throughout the operating range. The X1M-P’s multi-ply Baltic Birch enclosure uses an angle design, and features a 160-degree horizontal dispersion that allows the line array to be effective in a variety of configurations along a stage, according to the company. The loudspeaker ships with rigging hardware designed to mount the enclosure on the top or bottom. WorxAudio Technologies. 336-275-2044. www.worxaudio.com.
SOUND REINFORCEMENT
New at InfoComm ’09
The new ListenPoint system provides an easy way to add an audio infrastructure to small or medium rooms, according to the company. It includes a control unit, room module, and the M1 Microphone Kit. The system integrates and amplifies all sound sources, including DVD, computer, MP3, teleconferencing, room microphones, and VoIP systems. It’s aimed at the government, corporate, and education markets to improve retention. Listen Technologies. 801-233-8992. www.listentech.com.
BACKGROUND LOUDSPEAKERS
New at InfoComm ’09
The new SoundTube CM-EZ-BGM loudspeaker line is engineered for background music applications where additional low-end response is needed, says the company. A tuned port provides additional low-end response, meaning integrators should see reduced amplification costs. The CM-EZ-BGM can be ordered in 4-, 6.5-, and 8-inch configurations; back can depths of 3.75 inches and 5.75 inches provide flexibility in working with varying ceiling plenum spaces. A five-position tap switch allows for 25-, 70.7-, or 100-volt applications with a 16-ohm bypass. SoundTube Entertainment. 435-647-9555. www.soundtube.com.
EARSET MICROPHONE
New at InfoComm ’09
Hosa’s new Da-Cappo DA12 Hardwired Earset Microphone is designed for use where the interfacing wireless microphone system remains constant. Like the original DA12, the new Hardwired Earset version uses Da-Cappo’s water-resistant 2.5 mm diameter omnidirectional capsule and delivers 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response, but without the concern of misplacing the cable and adapter, says the company. The new DA12 features a -45 dB sensitivity that works well with other popular brands of wireless transmitters, as well as a 6-foot carbon Kevlar cable for easy concealment. A hypoallergenic cushion is designed for long-wear comfort, while an included lavaliere-style mic clip secures the cable to the wearer’s collar behind the head. Hosa Technology. 714-522-8878. www.hosatech.com.
InfoComm ’09 Products: Audio
Yamaha amps and mixers, Audio-Technica’s newest lavalier mic, Lectrosonics new audio networking family, more
WIRELESS MICROPHONES
The new 2000 Series from Sennheiser is a professional, entry-level wireless mic system that addresses a wide range of wireless applications. Handheld and bodypack transmitters come with single or twin receivers for use in stage, broadcasting, and installed sound situations. Depending on the UHF range, the units have a switching bandwidth of up to 72 MHz in the U.S., in which up to 64 compatible frequency presets are available for mics and up to 32 for monitoring systems. The series also features a frequency response of 25 or 80 Hz to 20 kHz, and a sensitivity that is adjustable within a wide range. Sennheiser Electronic Corp. 860-434-9190. www.sennheiserusa.com.
IR AUDIO CONFERENCING
Azden’s new six-channel infrared conferencing system features a rack-mount receiver with six individual, volume-adjustable outputs and one mixed output. The system, which offers security and protection from RF interference, also has four external sensor inputs in order to provide better coverage, according to the company. The chairman’s mic can override the other mics. Each mic has an LED ring that lights up when in use. Azden Corp. 516-328-7500. www.azdencorp.com.
SUBWOOFER
Martin’s new ASX floor-mounted subwoofer lives in an enclosure measuring 46.9 x 23.6 x 46.9 inches, housing a 21-inch/6-inch voice coil driver with 2.4-inch peak-to-peak excursion, a Class-D amplifier with 8.5 kilowatts peak power, and full DSP. According to the company, combining these elements doubles the output capability of a conventionally driven loudspeaker driver of the same size. When incorporated into a Martin Audio Hybrid horn design with -3 dB at 30 Hz, the system can deliver 152 dB peak output (measured) from a single enclosure, the company says. Martin Audio. 519-747-5853. www.martin-audio.com.
HANGING MICROPHONE
The new 1600VP microphone from Astatic is the company’s first continuously variable-pattern condenser, hanging microphone system that features remote polar control and an anti-rotational positioning mount. According to the company, the variable polar pattern with remote control allows the user to adjust the shape of the pick-up pattern to provide the best gain before feedback from a remote location. Low-noise elements produce a frequency response of 40 Hz to 20 kHz with a selectable recessed 80 Hz, 12 dB/octave high-pass filter that removes unwanted low-frequency energy when engaged, the company says. Up to six control boxes can be mounted in 1RU. Astatic Commercial Audio Products. 800-421-3161. www.astaticinstalled.com.
POWER AMPLIFIER MODULES
New at InfoComm ’09
Technomad made a series of upgrades to its PowerChiton weatherproof power amp modules. New IP and RF networking options use FM audio distribution technology, suitable for facilitywide distribution and requiring only local AC power to operate. Ethernet capabilities support wide-area distribution over a campus or facility LAN, with options for zone control. Twisted-pair networking can be used for long-distance distribution over copper with minimal signal loss or noise, the company says. Technomad also added two standard inputs to all three power levels: a broadcast-quality balanced line input and musical output; and an input for local audio. Technomad. 800-464-7757. www.technomad.com.
InfoComm ’09 Products: Audio
Yamaha amps and mixers, Audio-Technica’s newest lavalier mic, Lectrosonics new audio networking family, more
AUDIO MONITORS
Wohler’s new AMP1-E16-3G and AMP1-16-3G 16-channel multirate SDI audio monitors are the first of their kind from the company. The monitors include dual selectable SD/HD/3-Gbps inputs, as well as Dolby E and Dolby Digital Plus upgrade capabilities. The look and feel of the units are similar to the company’s AMP2-16-3G, with monitoring for up to 16 channels of embedded audio within a single multirate SDI signal, serving as a solution for complex multichannel and surround applications in DTV production and transmission. Two of the new monitors’ three LCD screens can monitor 16 channels of audio simultaneously with flexible options for high-resolution, 180-segment audio metering, while the third LCD may display video or data. Wohler Technologies. 510-870-0810. www.wohler.com.
DSP I/O CARD
New at InfoComm ’09
The NIO-4×4 from MediaMatrix by Peavey is an eight-channel input/output card for the NION digital audio signal processing platform. The card features four microphone and line-level inputs and four line-level outputs. The NIO-4×4 is compatible with all NION processing nodes and installs into a rear slot via DIN connector, expanding the DSP’s I/O options. Other features include 24-bit A/D inputs and 24-bit D/A outputs, 48 or 96 kHz audio sampling rate, and mini-Euro connectors. MediaMatrix. 866-662-8750. mm.peavey.com.
CINEMA LOUDSPEAKERS
Meyer Sound’s new Cinema Experience line of integrated cinema sound products includes screen loudspeakers, subwoofers, and surrounds. The THX-approved Acheron 80 and 100 screen channel loudspeakers are designed to provide performance from behind perforated screens. The X-800C high-power subwoofer, HMS-10 cinema surround loudspeaker, and digital tools, such as MAPP online Cinema, help Cinema Experience solutions provide a fully integrated system that the company says offers a consistent linear platform for creating a sound system for modern moviegoers. Meyer Sound. 510-486-1166. www.meyersound.com.
DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSORS
Ashly Audio’s new ne4400, ne4800, and ne8800 DSPs support networked audio systems using Ashly’s PC-hosted Protea NE Software via standard 10/100 Ethernet and RS-232 protocols. The systems offer a multichannel routing matrix with microphone input, network audio and digital audio hardware options, and 32-bit/96kHz SHARC-based signal processing that supports hot-plug software control. The three units feature 4×4, 4×8, and 8×8 analog line input/output formats with 24-bit A-to-D and D-to-A converters, and an audio path that provides a range of better than 114 dB. Ashly Audio. 585-872-0010. www.ashly.com.
PERSONAL FM SYSTEM
The Williams Sound Motiva Personal FM System delivers FM audio up to 150 feet and overcomes background noise, says the company. Suited for classroom use, the Motiva ensures the speaker’s message is heard clearly. The transmitter can broadcast a speaker’s voice and an audio program simultaneously within a single room. Motiva can also be customized to meet a listener’s specific hearing needs, with 16 selectable channels and a 72-76 MHz frequency. There are two Motiva models: the PFM 330 and the PFM 360. The 360 system includes all the features of the 330, plus an R36 receiver, which has a sensitive-environment microphone. Williams Sound. 800-328-6190. www.williamssound.com.
DIGITAL MIXER
Yamaha’s new IMX644 rack-mount digital mixer was developed for sound information applications, such as conference rooms, banquet halls, lounges, and restaurants. The IMX644 has six Euroblock mono inputs, each with +48 volts of phantom power; four RCA stereo inputs; and an additional optical digital input. Outputs include two pairs of stereo Euroblock connectors and two channels of mono outputs. RCA and optical digital outputs are also available for recording. According to the company, the mixer is intuitive enough for inexperienced operators to use, and it includes several features accessible from a computer running IMX644 Manager Software and connected via USB port. Yamaha Commercial Audio Systems. 714-522-9011. www.yamahaca.com.
MIXING CONTROLLER
Dan Dugan Sound Design has released its new E-1 Automatic Mixing Controller, with its transparent automatic microphone mixing technology. The E-1 provides eight channels of signal processing. According to the company, the device detects which microphones are being used and makes quick transparent cross-fades that allow the operator to focus on balance and sound quality rather than faders. New features include two pairs of ADAT connectors (one for digital I/O and one for linking), and a back panel switch that changes the inputs from analog to digital. Dan Dugan Sound Design. 415-821-9776. www.dandugan.com.
