NSCA Expo 2004: The Promise of Integration
Apr 20, 2004 6:23 PM
Dan Garrett from Aviom and Larry Italia from Yamaha announce collaboration.
More exhibitors, more attendees, more classes and more new product announcements. If some is good, more is better, and the 2004 NSCA Expo was a good example of more. With over 600 exhibitors, there was more ground for the 11,000 attendees to cover during the span of four days in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Activity on the show floor was busy and upbeat. Some of the highlights of the show were:
Audio
At two rackspaces high, the Electro-Voice CP1200, CP1800, CP2200, and CP3000S bring Precision Series audio performance to a new compact format. Iris v. 1.0 software introduces ease of use to the control and monitoring functions of the Precision Series DSP-controlled amplifiers with improved dialogs, user control panels, loudspeaker tunings, and two demo projects. The PolarChoice Desktop is a free-standing podium-style microphone anchored in place by its base. A revision of the Xi Series uses the ND6 three-inch voice coil neodymium driver. The Plasma P1 integrates transducers with high-power Class H amplification and signal processing to provide sonic detail and sound-pressure level. The 12-inch SxA360 design provides plenty of power in a compact package and weighs 36 pounds. Finally, the RE92’s capsule features a broad and smooth frequency response, a tight cardioid polar pattern, and low noise.
Electro-Voice Plasma P1
Group One, U.S. distributor for Trantec Wireless Systems, introduced the S6000 system. Also shown at the Group One booth were MC2 E Series amplifiers.
A live linkup between the DiGiCo D5 FMX and the Soundtracs DS-00 showed how live and recorded sound can be handled on one integrated digital system.
Dbx Professional Products announced the ZonePro 640 and 641 digital zone processors: DSP system processors for the background-music market. The ZonePro 641 has all the same features and specifications as the ZonePro 640 but comes with a contractor-only control blank front panel. Dbx also introduced the Purple Series 162SL compressor/limiter.
Symetrix had a new software upgrade for its 322 digital signal-processing engine, a hardware component in its Audio Workplace line. The software upgrade v. 1.02 includes side-screen scroll bars for use with smaller (1024 by 768 or less resolution) monitors.
Audio-Technica announced the AT898 subminiature cardioid condenser microphone. Intended for lecturers, stage and television talent, and houses of worship, the AT898 operates on battery or phantom power and includes a complete accessory kit.
Bose expanded its family of Panaray LT loudspeakers. The new Panaray LT MB24 modular bass loudspeaker uses an exclusive Bose design that configures two 12-inch woofers in a patented acoustic enclosure. All five Panaray LT Series III loudspeakers feature redesigned cabinets and new contoured stainless-steel grilles.
Shure’s new SLX wireless systems incorporate its Audio Reference Companding technology. Applications include houses of worship, corporate boardrooms, and lecture halls. Shure also relaunched the PSM 700 personal monitor system. It incorporates two new frequency bands, H3 (524 to 554 MHz) and L2 (632 to 662 MHz).
SLS Loudspeakers RLA/3
SLS Loudspeakers debuted the RLA/3 ribbon line array speaker system, which is configured using multiple lightweight and compact LS6500 modules that use the company’s own ribbon driver technology. Also introduced at NSCA was a new version of the Line Array Simulation Software, which now includes an optimizations module that reduces the time required for line array configuration and rigging parameters design.
The Biamp Nexia consists of the Nexia PM presentation mixer, the Nexia CS conference system, and the Nexia SP speaker processor. All are for contractors and systems integrators who are interested in audio quality and the benefits of digital signal processing in midlevel installations.
JBL Professional added two premium in-wall loudspeakers to its Control Contractor line. The JBL Control 126W is a two-way with a 6-1/2-inch woofer. The Control 128W is a two-way featuring an 8-inch woofer. JBL also unveiled four additions to the Precision Directivity PD5000 Series. The two-way PD5200/43 (with a 40-by-30 coverage pattern), two three-way PD5322 models (PD5322/95 and PD5322/64 with 90-by-50 and 60-by-40 coverage patterns respectively), and a full-range two-way PD5212/43 model (40-by-30 coverage pattern). The PD5212/43 features a horn-loaded 12-inch low-frequency driver and a large-format high-frequency compression driver and delivers frequency response from 80 Hz to 18 kHz.
Included among the eight new loudspeakers SoundTube introduced at NSCA were the RS500i, RS600i, RS800i, and RS801i loudspeakers for open-ceiling applications, featuring technologies designed to raise intelligibility, ease installation and adjustability, and advance audio styling. The SM500i surfacemount indoor/outdoor loudspeaker includes BroadBeam11 high-frequency dispersion technology, all-weather dependability, and rapid mounting and adjustability. Finally, the CM500i, CM800i, and CM801i in-ceiling loudspeakers feature BroadBeam11 technology, quick mounting, selectable power options, and magnetic grille attachments.
Middle Atlantic Products introduced its Tilt Out Rack (TOR) Series low-profile, vertical wall rack for smaller audio and paging systems. The TOR Series offers a 95-degree service position that can be obtained by lifting and rotating the front panel to a positive stop, allowing access during servicing. In addition, the TOR Series can be installed flush in the wall or surfacemount, depending on the requirements of the installation. Middle Atlantic also introduced its new Fan Control Top Series. The Fan Control Tops comprise integrated fans and grills as well as the company’s FC-4 proportional thermostatic fan control, varying the speed of the fans, based upon the enclosures interior temperature.
Improvements to Bag End’s MX2 signal processor include a technically improved grounding scheme that makes it less affected by spurious RF. Among new features, the Pro models contain an input card offering six inputs and five highpass filter outputs.
Dynacord M18
Aviom announced the support of Yamaha Corp. of America’s line of digital mixing consoles at NSCA 2004. Aviom developed the Aviom16/o-Y1 output card for Yamaha consoles, which allows audio in the form of the company’s proprietary A-Net protocol to be distributed through Cat-5 cable directly from the console to Aviom A-16II personal mixers.
Designed to complement the Cobra 2 and Cobra 4 systems, the Dynacord M15 and M18 offer multipurpose powered loudspeakers for high-power front- or sidefill applications.
Stardraw.com launched Stardraw A/V Lite, a brand-new application aimed at the smaller A/V systems integrator. Stardraw A/V Lite offers all of the drawing and design tools of its more heavyweight sibling, Stardraw A/V, for less than half the price.
Mackie’s new 24-mic input digital mixer, the TT24, is a 56–by-45, 24-bit, 96 kHz capable digital live console with 100 mm touch-sensitive faders, onboard analog and digital I/O, full channel metering, digital recall, EQ, dynamics, and effects. Mackie also announced an agreement with Lake Technology, designer of the Lake Contour digital loudspeaker processor, in which Lake will develop EQ and loudspeaker plug-ins for the TT24.
FiberPlex announced its Light Viper VIS-1832 fiber-optic pro-audio solution for digital data communications. The Light Viper VIS-1832 consists of a 32-by-8 audio input stage box and a complementary 1U rack unit (Model VIM-1832) installed at the main house audio mixing position. Connecting these two components is a military specification fiber-optic cable weighing less than two pounds per 100 feet of cable run.
The Tascam AV-452 incorporates a microphone mixer, an audio/video receiver, an infrared controller, and a digital amplifier into one, easy-to use component. With a universal learning remote and IR blaster function, it’s designed to control an A/V system as one integrated unit. It’s designed for use in meeting rooms, conference halls, churches, and other presentation applications.
Eastern Acoustic Works announced the new AX Series of arrayable loudspeakers that incorporate a coaxial MF/HF driver design that combines an 8-inch cone and a 1.4-inch exit compression driver. Both share a neodymium magnet, and a sealed aluminum chassis acts as the heat sink for the entire assembly.
Azden Corp. showed the 511DRH AC powered true diversity UHF receiver. The 511DRH features 63 user-selectable UHF frequencies in the 794 to 806 MHz band, twin LED indicators that show antenna reception and signal strength, and LED indicators for audio signal strength. Channel selection and power on/off are front-panel mounted, and the rear panel has the XLR balanced and 1/4-inch unbalanced output connectors, a variable squelch control, a variable output level control, and two BNC antenna connectors.
Architectural Acoustics, a division of Peavey Electronics Corp., introduced the new ICS 4200 four-channel commercial power amplifier. The ICS 4200 is designed for permanent installation and features four independent, 200W amplifier channels in a compact, fan-cooled 2U rackmount package. The ICS 4200 can supply maximum output power to both low impedance (4Ω and 8Ω) and high impedance (70V) loads simultaneously in single-channel or 2-channel pairs.
MediaMatrix introduced the new NION (Networkable Input Output Node), a programmable digital audio-processing node designed for professional and commercial audio and communications applications. The internal processing core of the NION is supported by a wide range of features, including MediaMatrix’s Scalable I/O Architecture. Four module bays support as many as 32 simultaneous analog audio channels, and the integrated CobraNet port provides another 64 channels for a total of 96 simultaneous configurable audio channels.
QSC Audio Products introduced its new AcousticDesign AD-S52 loudspeakers. The AD-S52 is a full-range, surfacemount loudspeaker for multiple environments and applications. QSC also introduced its new ModularDesign Series. The series includes six full-range models available in three coverage patterns with either 12-inch or 15-inch low-frequency drivers. Two low-frequency models with single 15-inch and 18-inch transducers are the MD-L115 and MD-L118 respectively. All these models share the same 35-inch tall, 30-degree trapezoidal enclosure. QSC also featured its Isis WideLine line array speaker system. The Isis WideLine offers 140-degree horizontal dispersion pattern and employs dual 380W (RMS), 16Ω, 10-inch, long-throw low-frequency speakers and a 1.4-inch exit, 16Ω, 80W (RMS) neodymium compression driver, mounted on a proprietary multiple aperture diffraction-slot waveguide.
Renkus-Heinz unveiled the STLA/9 three-way, high-output line array that combines the company’s proprietary line array technology with its CoEntrant Driver Topology. With 139 dB peak SPL broadband per module, the STLA/9 can handle the largest sound-reinforcement applications, yet the self-powered version weighs in at less than 200 pounds.
Allen and Heath introduced the iDR-4, complementing the company’s iDR family of installed and live DSP audio systems. Based on the same technology as the iDR-8 system and ideal for smaller installations, the iDR-4 is a 4-input/4-output digital processor, with additional 2-input/2-output, dual-function monitor channels. The iDR-4 offers system expansion through its compatibility with the full range of iDR accessories.
DMX Music showcased its range of programming, delivery and speaker solutions. DMX Music affiliates can now offer their customers a turnkey audio/video solution that includes DMX Music loudspeakers and playback devices.
TOA Electronics introduced the NX-100 network audio adapter, a hardware codec that converts analog audio signals to TCP/IP-based Ethernet format for transport and routing over existing local and wide area networks, including the Internet. Applications include paging, background music, or messaging.
Yamaha featured the PM5D, offering 64 input channels 96 kHz audio with 32-bit internal processing. Outputs include 24 mix, 2 stereo, 8 matrix, 8 Mute groups, and 8 digitally controlled amplifiers. Two front-end configurations are available. The Model PM5D includes 48 XLR analog mono inputs with manual mic preamps, each with balanced TRS insert I/Os and with an additional four stereo line level inputs. The Model PM5D-RH includes 48 XLR analog mono inputs with recallable mic preamps, with four stereo inputs that will accept mic level signal. Yamaha also announced the DME24N and DME64N digital mixing engines. The DME24N features as many as 24 channels of I/O (including 8 built-in analog I/O). The DME64N includes up to 64 channels of I/O. A cascade connection will allow as many as eight DME64N units to work in tandem or to connect to the new Yamaha PM5D mixing console.
Rane introduced several new products: Drag Net software v. 4.0 features feedback suppression using the Troxelation algorithm. The DEQ 60L stereo 1/3-octave digital graphic equalizer is the long-throw version of the 1/3-octave DEQ 60 introduced by Rane earlier this year. And the C4 offers four feature-packed channels of compression and limiting in a 2U package.
Polycom Vortex EF2241
A series of Polycom Quick Install Packs features the Vortex EF2241 installed voice system and the SoundStation VTX 1000 wideband conference phone. The all-inclusive pack permits fast installation of a voiceconferencing system in small- to medium-size conference rooms and contains the necessary cables and system presets to integrate with existing videoconferencing systems. The Vortex InstantDesigner software wizard lets you configure an installed-room audio system in minutes.
Tannoy launched a new addition to the V-Series. The V6 features a 6.5-inch dual cocentric drive unit. Available in black or white, the V6 comes with a foam covered mesh grille or an optional perforated metal grille. Also shown were the iw6TDC and iw6DS in-wall loudspeakers. The iw6DS utilizes a discrete driver configuration, and the iw6TDC incorporates a reengineered 6.5-inch dual concentric driver.
Designed for live performances, regional sound companies, fixed installations, corporate meetings, and houses of worship, Audix’s RAD-360 UHF wireless system has 193 selectable frequencies and dual tuner, true diversity receivers. The system’s menu-driven displays indicate selected frequency, audio signal strength, RF indicator, battery indicator, and so on.
Gepco unveiled its 61801EX single-pair audio cable, which is available in 20 colors and a riser-rated PVC jacket for improved flexibility.
Soundsphere’s Q-6 loudspeaker is weatherproof and can be used individually or as part of the Q-6 club system. The Q-12A and Q-15 loudspeakers are for environments with high noise levels, and the Hacousto XL-Mark II speaker array is designed for reverberant spaces.
The ClearOne Max wireless conferencing phone is designed for small conference rooms with as many as eight participants. The unit has 150-foot wireless signal range and up to eight hours of use before the battery must be recharged.
Mipro has the MI-808 wireless, in-ear monitor system for live performance. It features the MI-808R stereo body pack receiver and the MI-808T stereo transmitter.
PhonicEar’s EasyListener2 system includes a receiver, a transmitter, three speaker packages to choose from, and a choice of microphones for sound reinforcement in classrooms.
Telex’s FMR-500C UHF wireless mic system comes with the RE92Tx unidirectional lapel microphone for use in small- and medium-size installs.
Video
Equi-Tech Corp. showed off the Model QV1000 designed for cleaning video images on CRTs, on LCDs, with projection systems, and in associated video signal processors.
Folsom Research’s ImagePro multiformat image processor line uses Athena, a proprietary high-performance image-processing technology.
InFocus demonstrated its 7-inch-thin rear-projection 61-inch microdisplay. Applications include conference rooms and digital signage.
Jupiter Systems’ Fusion 970 display wall controller for command-and-control applications can array as many as 50 analog or digital projectors at resolutions as high as 1600-by-1200 pixels per projector.
Mercury Online Solutions’ FRED Solo Edition software for single-screen applications is a Web-based tool for managing digital media content for dynamic digital-signage applications.
NEC Visual Systems debuted the HT1100. It’s the follow-up to the HT1000, featuring a higher (full on/off) contrast ratio of 3500:1 and improved SweetVision II color and contrast enhancement technology. While the HT1100 is a native 4:3 projector, NEC offers an optional anamorphic lens for true 16:9 movie viewing.
Sony showed a new 802.11, wireless-capable projector. The VPL-CX85 boasts 3000 lumens of brightness, but more important to the NSCA audience should be its connectivity–including 802.11, Ethernet, and MemoryStick–and remote administration.
QuickLogix, offered a software-only IP control solution for mix and matched projectors. At NSCA NetControl was controlling Sharp LCD monitors and projectors, but it can control many others and can run from a central location. It needs no proprietary hardware.
Extron Electronics introduced the MTP T 15HD RS transmitter and the MTP R 15HD RS receiver, compatible with resolutions up to 1600 by 1200 (UXGA) and supports bidirectional serial communication of computer-video and serial communication signals over a single Cat-5, -5e, or -6 cable. They are for use where long-distance cable runs (up to 500 feet) are required, such as point-of-sale, digital signage, and kiosk applications.
The Wiremold Company has introduced a flush poke-thru device that supports audio/video connectivity from Extron Electronics. The Walker AV3 Series poke-thru accepts a wide variety of Extron MAAP Series mini architectural adapter plates for video, audio, control, voice, and data connectors as well as active modules such as VGA line drivers, audio buffers, and twisted pair transmitters. The AV3 Series poke-thru also offers a 20-amp duplex receptacle and the capability for modular data/communications jacks.
Visionary Solutions’ AVN-200 is a small black-box appliance with video inputs, Ethernet output, and the job of encoding video and audio into MPEG-2 and translating it to IP data for distribution over a local or wide area network.
Elmo’s newest HV-5100XG document camera has features like 20 fps, 36x magnification, one-push autofocus, noise reduction modes for text, 1034-by-779 resolution, and several presentation enhancements and effects.
Hall Research had several new and relatively new self-described “niche products that work.” The TVB-350 is a video scaler/up-converter to SXGA or HDTV with time base correction. The CVS-3 is a composite or S-video 1-to-3 video splitter. And the U97-A is a KVM extender over Cat-5 with audio.
WolfVision’s VZ-9 document camera can be used for presentations, training, education, videoconferencing, 3-D scanning, and telemedicine.
Advanced Media Design showcased the MediaPointe SystemTwo, a scalable conferencing system in its MediaPointe media-conferencing product line. The MediaPointe SystemTwo is designed for multiple participants in a work group conferencing environment.
Tandberg’s Multipoint Control Unit (MCU) connects audio and video sites in one or more conferences and supports mixed ISDN and IP video calls, and multiple units can create a video network. The Presenter Module is designed for presentation of multiple media to several sites simultaneously and turns XGA display devices into presentation, training, and collaboration tools.
Da-Lite’s Multi-Mask Imager is a fixed-frame screen that has horizontal and vertical masking and comes with a choice of 11 projection-screen surfaces.
Sharp’s Conference Series XG-P25X LCD projector provides 4,000 ANSI lumens brightness and native XGA resolution. Targeted at corporate boardrooms, government applications, and higher-education facilities, the XG-P25X has remote diagnostic and projector management options through its RS-232 connection.
Smart Technologies’ front-projection Smart board can be mounted on a wall or an optional floor stand in sizes ranging from 47, 60, and 72 inches diagonal. The rear-projection Smart board comes in three models: cabinet, integrated, and in-wall.
Bosch Integrus series
Magenta’s MultiView Series, including the MultiSwitch8, provides video distribution over Cat-5 to projectors, plasma displays, and LCD monitors. The company also offers Cat-5 remote computer extenders, video converters, and computer command-and-control systems.Security
With the Pelco DX8000 digital video recorder, you can view and control as many as 80 cameras. Its server-to-server capability provides control and administration of all devices and alarms associated with each of the connected DX8000s. The Integrus from Bosch (formerly known as Philips Communication, Security and Imaging) a 32-channel digital infrared language distribution system. The CCS 800 Ultro discussion system offers all the facilities required for achieving full control of meetings and discussions, without the need for an operator. It lets participants get their message across clearly and easily with no interruption from acoustic feedback.
