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SVC readers choose winners of 10th annual Innovative Product Awards 2020

Sound & Video Contractor is pleased to announce the winners of the 10th annual Innovative Product Awards.

Our year-end recap acknowledges both electronic and mechanical innovations, and most of all celebrates the designers and engineers behind each of these products. Winners were chose by SVC readers from among submitted products. Congratulations to all.

 

Visionary SolutionsPacketAV Duet

This wallplate encoder was the most popular product with voters this year. It’s an essential tool for providing 4K UHD video and Dante/AES67 audio encoding over Gigabit Ethernet. It fits neatly into a standard two-gang US/UK back box, and can be dressed with a Decora-style plate for use in a wall, tabletop, lectern, or floor box. It supports Dante/AES67 audio embedding and de-embedding, USB over IP (KVM), RS232 over IP, and IR over IP; it’s HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 compliant. Front panel HDMI input is featured along with RS-232 and USB ports, as well as IR and line-level audio in and out with power, link and level LED metering. The encoder also features a rear-mounted LAN port, PoE, and easy connection of Dante/AES67 audio, 4K UHD video, and control devices with one cable drop. The 45 degrees Ethernet connector allows access from any side of electrical boxes, providing bend radius relief. The encoder enables a single, converged audio and video over IP network, supporting enterprise-level security including AES encryption, 802.1x, HTTPS and SSH.

Bose L1 Pro Portble Line Array Systems

These stylish portable line array systems, ranked #2 with SVC voters; they replace the classic L1 line (the original L1 compact will stay). The new systems include the L1 Pro8, the L1 Pro16, and L1 Pro32 with its choice of two subwoofers. A RaceTrack driver design integrated into the L1 Pro8, L1 Pro16 and the Sub1 and Sub2 modular subwoofers, claims extended bass response and less bulk, making them much easier to transport, carry and fit onstage. Built-in multichannel mixers offer EQ, reverb, and phantom power, plus Bluetooth streaming capabilities and access to the complete library of ToneMatch custom EQ presets. The L1 Pro8 (38.9 lbs) provides a solution for intimate spaces; the L1 Pro16 (54.8 lbs) performs in small-to-medium spaces; and the premium L1 Pro32 (just 28.8 lbs) is a portable system for entertaining large audiences. The systems are complemented by the L1 Mix app, providing full wireless control of the built-in mixers for on-the-fly tweaks. Users can adjust mixer settings via phone or tablet from the stage, or walk the room. Volume and tone settings can be changed in the app as well; the mixer and app are synched in real-time. Two combo XLR-1/4” phantom-powered inputs, 1/4″ and 1/8″ (3.5 millimeter) aux inputs are included.

BenQ LU/LH Series BlueCore

This series of WUXGA and 1080p 4000- and 5000- lumen laser projectors are of course lamp free and feature a filterfree laser engine that’s sealed and rated to prevent dust accumulation. The LU710 (WUXGA) and LH710 (1080p) are both 4000 ANSI lumen brightness and the LU930 (WUXGA) and LH930 (1080p) deliver 5000 ANSI lumen brightness; all are suitable to both dark and well-lit rooms. BenQ developed is new LumiExpert technology to build on this flexibility. LumiExpert automatically detects the ambient light conditions of the room and adjusts the projector’s brightness to maximize clarity and comfort. With Rec. 709 color coverage, the projectors claim enhanced color saturation, true deep blacks, rich colors, and the kind of detail needed in education. Both model lines also feature an advanced Infographic Mode for better color gradation of charts, data, and other visual information and to ensure text is clearly legible. The additional Vivid Mode emphasizes colorful imagery when displaying video or photos.

Extron XMP 240

This expansion matrix processor carries a mix matrix with 24 channels of AEC and 48×48 Dante connectivity in a half-rack space chassis. It can be used standalone for matrix processing or in an all-network audio system. When connected to a DMP Plus Series processor via Dante or the EXP expansion port, a complete system is created that offers up to 36 channels of AEC, a USB audio interface, analog connectivity, and optional VoIP. A system expanded with an XMP 240 is capable of supporting multiple beamforming microphone arrays alongside numerous other Dante sources, with enough outputs to support multiple zones and destination devices. For network audio systems based on Dante or AES67, the XMP 240 allows for high-channel-count audio input and output processing. The ability to add 24 channels of AEC via a Dante network to a DMP based system lends powerful flexibility and scalability for this uniquely compact half-rack form factor. With connectivity for up to 48 sources and 48 destinations via Dante or AES67, the XMP 240 is well suited for applications that utilize many network audio devices. Dante Domain Manager support provides user authentication, role-based security, and expansion of Dante systems over any network infrastructure.

Shure DuraPlex

After the head-turning debut of the flagship TwinPlex line of lavalier and headset microphones, Shure began research to extend the innovations more widely, to support the diverse needs of film and television, theater, broadcast, and corporate presentations—and to deliver a waterproof microphone in the bargain. With input from the market, Shure developed the DuraPlex subminiature (5 mm) omnidirectional lavalier and headset microphone. Designed to stand up to tough conditions, DuraPlex features Shure’s first IP57 certification rating. The minimalistic form factor features the same award-winning ultra-thin (1.6mm) cable as the premium TwinPlex line. DuraPlex consists of the DL4 Omnidirectional Waterproof Lavalier Microphone and the DH5 Omnidirectional Waterproof Headset Microphone. The MEMs element yields consistent and neutral sound quality with low selfnoise for vocal clarity in multiple environments. DuraPlex comes in a range of colors and with a premium carrying case, snap-fit and foam windscreens, single tie clip, and a presence cap (the DL4 also comes with a sticky mount). The unique cable is immune to kinks and memory effects, due to an innovative spiral construction with redundant shielding that was thermal tested to the extreme as part of development–and which feels great in your hand.

Extron NetPA U Series

Voters responded to Extron’s most powerful and flexible NetPA Ultra amplifier, the new NetPA U 2002 SB with bridgeable outputs–it can deliver two 200-watt channels into low impedance systems, or one 400-watt channel into low or high impedance systems. It’s an ENERGY STAR, Dante-enabled audio power amplifier in a half rack, convection-cooled, plenumrated enclosure that includes rack mount hardware. Onboard audio DSP includes a 6×6 mix matrix, filters, and dynamics. Four mic/ line inputs and two line outputs can be utilized as Dante endpoints or as additional inputs to the onboard DSP. System monitoring is available through the Dante connection including detailed amplifier status. The NetPA U 2002 SB features Extron’s patented highly efficient Class D amplifier design with CDRS – Class D Ripple Suppression, and defeatable autostandby with fast wake up.

Epson America PRO L12000QNL

Voters liked laser projectors. The Pro L12000QNL brings native 4K resolution (3840 x 2160) and 12,000 lumens of color/white and a 2,500,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio. Of course, the laser light engine and electrostatic air filter provide virtually maintenance-free operation. Beyond the high resolution and brightness, this large venue projector has two interface slots designed to accommodate a wide range of inputs. A mechanical shutter protects against damage from external laser lights. Wide lens shift and a range of optional lenses (sold separately) including a zero-offset ultra short-throw lens, are practical for the range of higher end applications this will see.

ViewSonic LS900WU

The third laser projector to rank in the top 10 with voters, this projector fits in at 6000 ANSI lumens with a 100,000:1 contrast ratio. It claims an above-average 30,000 hours of light source life, and ViewSonic’s proprietary SuperColor. It’s positioned for auditoriums, lecture halls, and large boardrooms. It is also easy to deploy and manage with its wide 1.65x optical zoom adjustment, vertical/horizontal keystone correction, four-corner adjustment, and a vertical/horizontal lens shift feature. A 360-degree tilt angle, portrait mode, and 24/7 operation allow for several mounting options.

ClearOne BMA 360

This ceiling tile microphone is claimed as the world’s first truly wideband, frequency invariant beamforming mic array with uniform gain response across all frequency bands. It utilizes a range of patented technology. ClearOne’s FiBeam technology is designed to deliver natural and full fidelity audio across all beams and within a single beam. Deep sidelobe beamforming—DsBeam–provides maximum sidelobe depth, below -40 dB, to support rejection of reverberation and noise in difficult spaces. ClearOne took a new approach to beamforming, which the company has said provides a new beam topology to any room shape and any seating arrangement. Further advancements in adaptive steering provide coverage of each conference participant as well as support for camera tracking. The company’s 6G Acoustic Echo Cancellation (AEC) delivers per-beam fullduplex audio performance. Onboard audio algorithms, like noise reduction, filtering, and Automatic Level Control, eliminate the need for per-beam processing in a DSP mixer, requiring fewer DSP mixer resources. Built-in configurable amplifiers, support for daisychaining, simple configuration, and support of three different ceiling grid sizes and various mounting features all simplify installation.

L-Acoustics P1 Processor with M1 Suite

With the recent release of LA Network Manager 3, L-Acoustics turned to its sound reinforcement system control and monitoring software with the introduction of the M1 suite, a comprehensive set of measurement and monitoring tools. From data acquisition through system tuning to live monitoring, the software takes advantage of the company’s Milancertified P1 processor and amplified controller hardware for system calibration as well as real-time performance monitoring. The M1 suite claims an industry first in pairing system measurement and control software to work natively as one solution. M1 is a dual-channel FFT measurement platform that automates the calibration data capture and analysis process—sequentially muting and unmuting different parts of the system that need to be measured, capturing audio, labeling measurements, and storing data to the proper groups automatically and indefinitely. With M1, mic placement and capture throughout the venue is done only once and then can be infinitely adjusted virtually, even offline. M1 also provides live system monitoring via a Real Time Analyzer (RTA).

Beale Street Audio BAV4250

This amplifier from Vanco International brand Beale Street Audio, is a 4-input, 4-channel amplifier with an output of 250 Watts per channel, and is compatible with 4-ohm, 8-ohm, 70-volt, and 100-volt speaker systems. Features include DSP processing and a Matrix mode. The BAV4250 features IP control with a browser-based GUI for easy setup and control. Rack-mountable with accessories included, the BAV4250 can be controlled from the front panel.

AVer Information TR311HN

The TR311HN AI Auto Tracking 12X NDI PTZ streaming camera helps organizations operate the many cameras they now need for teaching, collaborating, or training in a remote-based world. The camera features 12X optical zoom and 12x digital zoom, full HD 1080p@60Hz and AVer’s most advanced artificial intelligence (AI) auto-tracking technology with Human Detection algorithm. The tracking offers two specific modes, Presenter Tracking (full or half body) and Zone Tracking without requiring any physical lanyard. Presenter Tracking allows the camera to automatically follow the speaker anywhere around the room, or manually follow any additional speaker with a simple click to track. This feature is operated via remote control and intuitive browser UI. Zone Tracking offers automatic content capturing among four preset areas. AI auto-tracking technology allows users to detect and capture human forms in seconds without a dedicated camera operator. This functionality makes the TR311HN an option for lecture halls, classrooms, home-based video broadcasts, houses of worship and enterprise training environments. The TR311HN supports the latest NDI|HX2 protocol and includes three outputs with HDMI, NDI/IP, and USB. The camera offers lowlatency NDI video, audio line-in for HDMI and NDI/IP streams, and Power over Ethernet (PoE+) support. The TR311HN also features Wide Dynamic Range (WDR).

ATEN UC9040

The StreamLIVE PRO all-in-one multi-channel AV mixer integrates 1080p video capture, video recorder, video switch, streaming encoder, video converter, video splitter, and audio mixer. It’s compatible with every major streaming platform and can livestream to two platforms at the same time from virtually anywhere. Using the OnAir Pro App, users can preset up to eight scenes with custom video layout, preview, and full screen program monitoring, plus realtime editing, transitions in DVE, PbP or PiP visual effects, and graphic and text overlays for a pro finish. The form factor is a compact mixer control panel, allowing for switching and mixing among multiple video and audio sources with the help of easily identifiable luminous keys.

Planar HRO Series

This series of high-resolution outdoor LED video walls is built for close-up daylight video viewing, even in direct sunlight. It delivers 3500 nit brightness and is available in 1.5 millimeter or 1.9mm pixel pitch, some of the smallest in the industry for outdoor LED displays. The series is built to endure the weather with LED treatments to protect from ultraviolet rays, dust and water, without negatively impacting the viewing experience. Protective plates on the backside cover cables and mechanics, ensuring long life no matter the environmental factors. The Planar HRO Series can be used in a variety of outdoor applications such as covered or uncovered business pavilions, amphitheater backdrops, poolside hospitality, transportation signage, and retail or architectural exteriors. The video walls can be wall-mounted hung or stacked. They also feature full front service for no-hassle maintenance.

Sony Electronics BRAVIA BZ40H Series

The new 4K HDR BZ40H series of professional displays includes 55-inch, 65-inch, 75-inch, and 85-inch options for use in various B2B applications. The series combines Sony’s high picture quality and system on a chip platform with extensive pro features. This generation has been cosmetically redesigned to offer new terminal positions, a flat bottom bezel and a reinforced structure. It offers updated, faster processing and transfer speeds. In addition to an embedded 4K HDR processor and TRILUMINOS display technology, the BZ40H series implements a number of Sony’s advanced AV technologies, including detailed 4K picture quality with 620-nit overall and 850-nit peak brightness with high contrast, as well as X-Balanced speakers. Connectivity and software-wise, the features are extensive and designed to support a wide array of commercial applications; APIs are available. The series features an advanced IP network connection (wired/ wireless LAN) and supports Crestron Connected, Extron IP Link system, or can easily integrate with other typical central control systems. The lineup’s wireless connectivity supports 5GHz, in addition to 2.4GHz, Wireless Access Point (WAP); an internal WAP is also supported. Users can create content utilizing HTML5 or simply use USB plug and play operation.

L-Acoustics A Series

The new A15 and A10 constant curvature line source systems brings L-Acoustics concert performance and reliability for audiences from 50 to 5,000. Mounted on a pole, stacked on the companion KS21 or flown in vertical or horizontal arrays, the new A Series family combines plug-and-play ease and international market acceptance. This versatile solution, with adjustable directivity, scales with the needs of young and growing companies and is the gateway to the L-Acoustics rental network. Features include high output (137 dB SPL max); flexible coverage with Panflex (70°, 110° or 90°) asymmetrical left or right; weather resistant (IP55); and plug-and-play simplicity. The series can be used individually as a configurable directivity point source or stacked/ flown in combination to form a vertical or horizontal line source.

Liberty AV Solutions INTELIX USB 3.1

This high-performance extender supports camera, control, KVM, and interactive display control simultaneously. The extender is backward compatible with previous USB versions; multiple versions, including USB 3.0 and 2.0, can be run simultaneously. It provides USB 3.1 extension up to 100m over Cat6A /7; it supports isochronous data extension through USB 2.0 High Speed. (Use INT-USB3.1CX-PLUS if full 3.1 Isochronous is required.) The extender includes a 4-port USB hub on the client end and 1Gps Ethernet pass-through.

Liberty AV Solutions DigitaLinx “TEAMUP+” Series

This 4K60 18g 4×1 multi-format presentation switcher extender becomes a versatile 5×1 when using optional HDBT RX. This unit includes four video inputs, two HDMI, one Display Port, and one USB-C. Great as a standalone switcher, or to integrate a display, PC, control and USB 3.0 mic/camera; the optional DigitalLinx HDBaseT receiver makes it a 5×1 presentation/switcher. It’s ideal for softwarebased video teleconference rooms, BYOM (Bring Your Own Meeting) with no need for a dedicated conference system–the computer is the dedicated conference system. The unit can also be controlled via front panel buttons or by API commands using RS232 or Ethernet. This unit offers web server / GUI that is built in, and features A/V and USB switching control, automatic display control and input EDID management. With built-in system automation, these devices automatically power up TVs or projectors via RS232, and handle up/down relays for projector screens with use of the DigitalLinx HDBaseT receiver–no need for separate system control.

Shure MICROFLEX MXN5-C

This networked loudspeaker provides high-quality speech reproduction for conferencing applications, and integrates into Shure’s extensive suite of networked conferencing hardware and software for a complete conferencing ecosystem. PoEenabled with an onboard amplifier housed in a low-profile design, the speaker features pre-tuned frequency response optimized for voice intelligibility in audio conferencing applications, while its low-profile, shallow-can design is compatible with most drop-ceiling installations. It includes two Dante inputs and one Dante output with AES67 compatibility. Benefits of the new MXN5-C include direct visibility on the network, direct management with Dante Domain Manager software, and Shure Audio Encryption support for secure meeting content. The networked speaker benefits from remote setup or DSP utilities, including EQ, delay, limiter, and signal/tone generation. The PoE/PoE+ capability eliminates the need for an outboard amplifier, while its materials and design, including a removable and paintable grille, are UL 2043 plenum rated.

Ross Video Kiva

Kiva is a new live media presentation server platform that complements the existing Tria production server and Mira replay server solutions from Ross. The highly intuitive icon-based/shotbox-style user interface presents a variety of digital media into venue videoboards, such as real-time video clips, ‘fill+matte’ stills and animations, surround-sound audio, and sponsored ads. Kiva enables operators to create playlists containing all these different media with flexible playout control. Sports and live events industries benefit in particular from Kiva’s ability to play content on multiple displays around a venue. Similarly, Kiva is an excellent resource in broadcast and corporate studios using both ‘live’ and ‘live to disk’ workflows. With fast and easy ‘point and click’ actions, one or two pairs of preview and program players, and audio levels and player controls, Kiva provides extensive playout power. The interface is customizable, letting operators assign all playout content onto banks and pages of media buttons to simplify playout during each live production.

Liberty AV Solutions DigitaLinx HDMI & USB-C HDBaseT Wall Plate

This extension set with USB-C transmits audio, video, data, and power charging up to 40W. It’s positioned for HDMI extension and AV routing for presentation in settings such as education, collaboration, boardrooms, and houses of worship. The single-shielded Cat6/6a cable carries 4K to 40 meters, and 1080P to 70 meters. It supports resolutions up to 4K2K@30Hz (4:4:4) or 4K2K@60Hz (4:2:0) 10.2G, and supports HDCP 2.2 and HDCP 1.4. It features a dedicated 3.5mm analog audio channel independent of HDMI. Fully functional USB-C supports USB 2.0 High Speed up to 240Mbps data rate, and USB-B supports USB 2.0 High Speed up to 240Mbps data rate. A 24V POC power supply for the RX side can power the wall plate remotely; optional second power supply is included to power the standard US 2-gang TX for USB-C charging. Most recently, Liberty announced compatibility with ActivPanel displays from Promethean.

AmpliVox Sound Systems Digital Signage Lectern

These lecterns with builtin digital display screens are great for brand support, communication, and instructional messages, such as COVID testing sites, security check-in, etc. The 43-inch display is native 1920 x 1080, and has an ambient light sensor that auto-dims the LED backlights. There are thirty different programming schedules plus current date and time. Input terminals include digital HDMI, analog VGA, 3.5-millimeter audio, external LAN, and data. The built-in media player has USB and SD card slots. Connectivity for the display is located on both the bottom and side of the lecterns for easy access. There are two models of lecterns with the built-in screens: Contemporary Lectern and Visionary Lectern II. The Contemporary Lectern is 49” high and features satin anodized aluminum uprights and a 26.75” wide x 16.75” deep table and a base, both made of MDF. The Visionary Lectern II, an upgraded version of AmpliVox’s previous Visionary Lectern, is 47” high x 26” wide and is made of scratch-resistant melamine.

Bose SoundComm B40

This pro headset has already seen action at high profile live events all over the world, including the groundbreaking mixed reality League of Legends World Championships put on by Riot Games in pandemic. The SoundComm B40 Headset builds on the user features of the Bose SoundComm B30, the NFL headset of choice, and takes advantage of the engineering knowledge Bose has cultivated during 30 years of professional noise cancellation. The SoundComm B40 Headset streamlines communication for production professionals in many high-noise environments–bringing comfort, durability and weather resistance to live music and theater; precise, intelligible intercom audio to worship production teams; and a pro sports experience to college and high school sporting events. Proprietary Bose acoustic noise cancellation technology reduces crowd noise and distractions. The headset features a weather-resistant dynamic noise cancellation microphone that optimizes intelligibility and provides farfield noise rejection to enable clear communication within a live event production team. Low-clamping force and intelligent weight distribution work for long hours in the gear. The SoundComm B40 is available in four-pin XLRF and five-pin XLRM variants, making it compatible with many intercom systems that provide monaural or binaural audio.

Crestron 70 Series Touch Screens

This sleek touch screen series, available in wall-mount and tabletop options, offers more screen and less bezel for users who want that stylish minimal look. The screens are Wi-Fi enabled and are available for both custom-programmed and Crestron Home projects where previous infrastructure requirements may not have been available. The screen can be placed on counters, coffee tables, nightstands, and anywhere throughout a home or hospitality setting for unprecedented flexibility. The addition of proximity sensors also allows for the touch screen to automatically wake when in close range without physical contact. Crestron’s 70 Series Touch Screens support legacy and HTML5 custom projects, allowing UI developers and programmers to provide a dynamic and modern user interface. Key features include: fast processing, high resolution display, seamless transfer of projects from Crestron’s 60 Series touch screens, and the full range of network standards and security and privacy protocols. The screens run the latest SONOS S2 app for deeper integration into the SONOS ecosystem. The touch screens are available in both black and white finishes. Wall-mount options are available in 5-, 7-10-inch sizes; tabletop options are available in 7- or 10-inch sizes.

Ross Video LUCID

This is a significant new solution for Ross that changes the way virtual solutions are configured and controlled–essentially providing a virtual control center that seems a compelling, modern workflow choice. The LUCID platform replaces the previous UX solution from Ross as the primary configuration and control interface for all Ross virtual studio and augmented reality applications. Customers will immediately notice a brand-new user interface, and LUCID is the first Ross product to feature the new Aura visual language. This language will be a key aspect of many future solutions from Ross. The new interface enables operators to design their own customized layouts, as well as save and recall layouts based on personal preference or production stage. Ross has a big roadmap planned for virtual solutions based on this new Aura language and this debut resonated with voters.

Aurora Multimedia TAVIS

Certainly in this year of Covid challenges, AV innovation has been part of finding the way through, and will eventually help us back to community in new ways. This thermal sensing tablet provides temperature sensing abilities with an 80×64 thermal sensor in a variety of size and mount options. The TAVIS is available in 10.1-in, 15.6-in, and 21.5-in (TAV-21) sizes. It provides alerts when a person is running a high temperature within one second, up to 1.6 meters away. Two people can be scanned simultaneously, providing digital signage prediction features that include age, gender and other identifiers. The TAVIS thermal temperature-sensing tablet can be mounted in a landscape or portrait aspect; it’s available with black and white colors and customization options for Aurora’s drag and drop ReAX Core Studio software.

Extron FOX3 Series

This is Extron’s latest family of fiber optic extenders and matrix switchers for end-to-end distribution of 4K video, audio, control, USB, and 3D sync. This enterprise fiber platform supports HDMI 2.0 data rates up to 18 Gbps and is HDCP 2.3 compliant for the secure transmission of uncompressed 4K@60Hz (4:4:4) video over two fibers, or mathematically lossless video over one fiber. FOX3 extenders feature built-in USB for KVM applications while Extron-exclusive Vector 4K scaling technology supports image quality. Features include audio breakaway, audio embedding/de-embedding, DMP, and Dante integration. The FOX3 Series distributes AV signals through a wide selection of modular matrix switchers from 8×8 to 320×320 with enterprise-class features like redundant power supplies, hot-swappable modules, and Ethernet monitoring. New system-level control options and integrator-friendly features, simplify configuration and management.

Danley Sound Labs BC215

Danley’s BC subwoofer class was developed out of what was a military project; the design criteria was to have an extremely high-output, low-frequency device fitted between the skids of a helicopter. From that project, Danley went on to develop the BC412, BC415, and BC218. Now the new BC215 offers the same low-frequency directivity as its classic bass-friendly predecessors by utilizing the same horn design philosophy. However this version also features multiple horn exit options, which allow for numerous possible configurations. The dimensions (45” x 45” x 24”) of the BC215 enable it to fit below a standard 48-inch stage deck in its “stand up” position. Or it can be configured to “lay-down” and have a 24-inch profile when the horn exit is changed. The “stand-up” configuration allows for the BC215 to offer the most directivity and can be coupled as a pair or quad configuration for maximum low-frequency directivity without the need for any digital signal processing. A Danley BC215 will faithfully reproduce output from 33Hz to 180Hz at 137dB continuous and 143dB peak. It can handle 3400W continuous and 13600W peak at 2 Ohms and weighs in at 360 pounds.

Clear-Com FreeSpeak Edge

The latest flagship addition to Clear-Com’s family of digital wireless intercom solutions, is their most advanced. It’s the result of a groundup design and engineering process, and field tests across applications including sports stadiums, live events, military installations, and broadcast facilities—a gauntlet that also earned it an IP54 rating. The system gives users more control and configuration options through new advanced frequency coordination capabilities and intuitive design features in the system’s transceivers and beltpacks. It utilizes audio-over-IP AES67 connectivity, an advanced 5 GHz chipset with a proprietary radio stack development optimized for intercom, and exclusive RF technology from Clear-Com based on OFDM. By investing engineering and development resources in a completely new wireless band, Clear-Com claims a future-proof product. The 5 GHz band is an ideal choice for large-scale communications, as it can be managed with frequency coordination for reduced interference, and it offers the widest range of RF channels available. The band’s higher frequencies mean there is more bandwidth for data, which allows for finer control, additional audio channels, lower latency, and better audio quality. FreeSpeak Edge can be combined seamlessly with FreeSpeak II 1.9 GHz and 2.4 GHz systems.

Pure Resonance Audio SD5

The SD5 SuperDispersion ceiling speaker prioritizes speech reproduction and voice intelligibility, with a speech transmission index of .80. The SD5 offers a wide dispersion of high-frequency sounds, allowing listeners to clearly catch speech from a much wider proximity. The frequency response needed to clearly hear a human voice is between 200 Hz and 7 kHz. Consonant sounds typically fall into a higher frequency band between 2 kHz and 7 kHz. The SD5, through its proprietary driver and tweeter designs, has the ability to evenly disperse these critical frequency sounds widely, providing clear sound and speech reproduction to the listening audience. Additionally, the SD5’s reinforced wave-guide housing and directional vortex porting maximize audio dispersion and reduce turbulence. The company claims an industry-leading 50’ x 50’ plus of audio coverage from a single array with zero frequency cancellation. For installers, the company’s decades of experience with drop-tile installation is a key benefit; particular attention has been paid to installation features.

Symetrix Composer 8.0

This is a benchmark expansion to Symetrix’ control solution, Symetrix In Control. After releasing the T-5 Glass Touchscreen remote and the W Series IP remotes this year, the addition of Lua Scripting in Symetrix Composer 8.0 software completes the Symetrix In Control solution, a long-standing goal of the company. Everything needed to get started is available on the Symetrix website for instant access to control with no additional fees or licenses. Synchronized components include the ARC-WEB virtual user interface for devices and the WebBased Event Scheduler. SymVue control software offers extensive system control with rapid GUI authoring; third party control system compatibility extends the ecosystem. Symetrix Composer 8.0 unlocks unlimited Intelligent Module creation and use, with no additional fees, for more control from the same Symetrix DSPs. Lua scripting allows the user to create custom Intelligent Modules, providing solutions for tasks as simple as handling a fire alarm system mute, to more complex tasks like changing camera positions based on detected audio levels in a city council chamber.

Biamp TesiraCONNECT TC-5D

This is a 5-port AVB-capable PoE+ network device, which can be configured as a Dante or AVB interface to a Tesira system. While it retains all of the features of the original TesiraCONNECT, the TC-5D also provides the ability to bridge AVB and Dante media networks. This enables easy integration of Dante devices to a Tesira AVB-only system or Tesira AVB devices (e.g. Tesira amplifiers, Tesira expanders) to a Tesira DANTE-only system. In the Tesira software, the TC-5D appears as a Tesira infrastructure device. The TC-5D works out of the box with Biamp products as an AVB network switch just like the TesiraCONNECT TC-5, and does not require any configuration. TC-5D is primarily intended for use in limited scope systems such as conference rooms and combinable rooms. Up to four TesiraCONNECT TC-5 and/ or TC-5D devices can be used within a single media network cluster (star or chain). (For larger installations requiring a higher number of AVB ports, or for integration of certain endpoints, Biamp recommend the use of Avnu-certified managed switches; note the TC-5D does not support user configurable DSP.) TesiraCONNECT TC-5D is a combination of power and simplicity integrating Biamp’s long experience with AVB and Dante. It is a switch as well as an endpoint device that runs Tesira Firmware 3.16 or later. The TC-5D will continue to pass other network traffic even if it’s configured as a Dante or AVB interface. All configuration, firmware updates, and fault monitoring are provided via Tesira Software and Biamp Sagevue.

Crestron ONE App

Crestron ONE app with mobile room control, enables a control experience from any personal device. Crestron ONE empowers employee wayfinding, room automation, and content sharing from iOS and Android personal devices, facilitating touchless room management—more important than ever. The app works with Crestron TSW 60-Series touchscreens via direct Bluetooth connection, without requiring devices to reside on the same network. This ensures compliance with customer’s global IT security standards. Using existing equipment and code, and without any additional programming required, managers can easily configure the inroom experience to select the right controls for each space. Regardless of how systems are set up, or which Crestron control system is being utilized, Crestron ONE delivers a consistent experience from any mobile device for conference rooms, huddle spaces, and other shared spaces.

 

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