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04 April 2025

France - L-Acoustics has announced a strategic collaboration with AFMG, developers of EASE 5 (Enhanced Acoustic Simulator for Engineers). The partnership creates a seamless workflow between L-Acoustics Soundvision, a 3D acoustic modelling software and AFMG's EASE, a brand-agnostic industry standard for acoustic simulation.

The new integration allows sound designers and acoustic consultants to transfer their L-Acoustics system designs created in Soundvision directly into EASE 5, providing workflow efficiency while maintaining acoustic accuracy across both platforms.

"Designing with L-Acoustics products in EASE 5 has never been this easy," said Ryan John, director of product management, software at L-Acoustics. "This collaboration with AFMG represents our ongoing commitment to providing audio professionals with tools that enhance their workflow efficie

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04 April 2025

UK - The Power of Events, the not-for-profit organisation launched in 2023 to provide better understanding, respect and value for the UK Events Industry, has announced the expansion of its UK Schools Engagement Programme with the launch of the North West Hub, its largest region yet, spanning Liverpool, Cheshire and Manchester.

This initiative will connect thousands of young people with the dynamic world of events, providing insights, inspiration, and career pathways into the industry.

With ambassador registration now live on the Schools Engagement Programme portal (schools.thepowerofevents.org), industry professionals in the region are invited to sign up and support the next generation of talent by volunteering as little as an hour to the initiative. The first wave of school engagements will begin in early May across the region, with the ambitious go

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03 April 2025

Australia - Robe lighting s.r.o. and Australian distribution company Jands have reached an amicable agreement whereby Robe’s product distribution in Australia and New Zealand will be managed by LSC Control Systems, while Jands continues its journey with Robe’s architectural brand, Anolis.

The change of distribution will be effective from 1 July 2025. The move follows Robe’s 2024 acquisition of the Melbourne-based power management solutions specialist LSC Control Systems.

LSC was subsequently appointed as the Avolites distributor in the region, following Robe’s purchase of the UK-based lighting and visual console and media server manufacturer at the end of 2023.

Robe’s CEO Josef Valchar stated: “It made strategic, logical and practical sense for us to consolidate distribution of all Robe’s rental, staging, theatrical and music or

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03 April 2025

South Africa - DWR Distribution has announced its appointment as the official distributor for Sound Devices in South Africa.

Sound Devices, based in Reedsburg, Wisconsin, has provided innovative audio solutions used on movies, TV shows and documentaries like Dune: Part Two, Wicked, and Squid Game with local backup and support. With over 20 years of experience in manufacturing, their equipment is renowned for its rugged durability and audio performance.

Kiah Hassall, sales manager at Sound Devices comments: “We care about audio and want to help the customer understand the pitfalls and magic of everything RF-related. We have made an RF visual to save you lots of time and rack mount space and give you peace of mind that you are in safe hands. Our Astral wireless series has receivers and transmitters to suit

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03 April 2025

Georgia - Genelec has further strengthened its global distribution network with the appointment of Geovoice to handle the distribution of its professional audio monitoring, installed sound and home audio ranges in Georgia.

Founded in 2004 and based in Tbilisi, Geovoice is a leading professional audio distributor in the Caucasus region, with a partner-based approach built around trust and collaboration. Having developed a strong network of local relationships supported by an experienced, highly qualified team, Geovoice provides levels of service tailored to the different needs of the local market.

“The Genelec brand has become synonymous with innovation and excellence in professional audio and installed sound,” comments Lasha Matitaishvili, CEO of Geovoice. “Genelec's extensive range of solutions presents a significant opportunity for growth, no

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03 April 2025

Germany - Neumann & Müller has completed the move to its new base in Munich at Frankenthaler Strasse 20, relocating from Taufkirchen.

The new site not only boasts better infrastructure but also a much more central location with good access to public transport, with both tram and train stations situated within walking distance. This makes the offices equally easy to reach for employees and clients alike while also further improving networking opportunities for N&M within Munich. Employees will also profit from the modern and inspiring working environment.

A first highlight at the start of the spring meeting of the shareholders was the inauguration of the new location on the evening before. Held twice a year, the objective of the shareholders' meeting is to discuss key strategic issues, compare notes and benefit from fresh inspiration coming o

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03 April 2025

Namibia - Technical supplier dB Audio has announced the expansion of its Absen NT2.9 LED stock to over 80sq.m of an identical batch of panels supplied by South African distributor, DWR Distribution.

To put this investment in context, it's important to consider how small the Namibian industry is compared to the South African industry, which is evident from the population difference between the two countries. While South Africa has a population of around 64m, Namibia's population is only 3m. This disparity in size and scale makes dB Audio’s strategic investment in LED technology even more noteworthy, as it supports the local market's needs despite a smaller economy.

David Benade, founder of dB Audio Namibia, explained the rationale behind this investment: “Over the years, we have made every effort to invest in our local industry by aggressively tra

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02 April 2025

Europe - Plusfortyfive ApS is a new venture launched by the Generator Group in Denmark whose businesses and brands also include event and show technical production specialist VIGSØ.eu, and automation solutions manufacturer Motor Stage Automation.

The Danish-headquartered operation is headed by Kenneth Jakobsen – who brings 20 years of industry experience – and will be distributing and supporting several premium brands throughout the Scandinavian region.

The company hits the ground running with two German brands onboard, GLP (German Lighting Products) and HOF whose portfolio includes quality trussing, stage and rigging products.

Jakobsen and his team will grow the business organically through establishing a series of additional regional offices and partnerships. This will start in Norway and Sweden in addition to Denmark, with more announ

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02 April 2025

Europe - Ecler has announced a partnership with Sennheiser, to deliver ‘an exceptional conferencing experience’ combining the latest Ecler VEO-SWC45 presentation switcher with Sennheiser's TeamConnect (TC) Bar Solutions.

The VEO-SWC45 is a versatile 4K presentation switcher designed for modern meeting spaces. It offers easy connectivity and intuitive control, featuring dual HDMI outputs, wireless content sharing, Web GUI for quick or advanced configurations and integrated USB for simple connection to video conferencing systems. Other features include: priority transmitter, video mute and screensaver, configurable Aux buttons and User Mode.

Sennheiser's TC Bars are intelligent videobar collaboration devices with a 4K camera, clear audio and advanced speech intelligibility. Available in two models – the TC Bar S and TC Bar M – they accommodate

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02 April 2025

UK - Stage Sound Services (SSS) is a sound, video and projection rental company based in Cardiff, offering solutions to the theatre and live events industries. Huw Semmens explains how DirectOut products such as Prodigy.MP and .MX, as well as Exbox and many more, sit in the SSS inventory and provide the kind of bespoke solutions that SSS has built its name upon.

“We've been using DirectOut Technologies' kit since 2013 when we bought the original Andiamo MADI Analogue converter,” he says. “Following that initial investment, whenever we had a specific task that required a hardware solution, we found that DirectOut already had a suitable product in their line-up. We now have just under 100 DirectOut assets in our inventory.”

If a designer requests equipment that is not in the company’s regular rotation, it is down to Semmens and his team to en

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01 April 2025

UK - Microphone manufacturer Sontronics and Abbey Road Institute have announced the new Sontronics Scholarship, designed to support and inspire the next generation of music producers and sound engineers.

This collaboration will offer one aspiring candidate an opportunity to study at Abbey Road Institute London on the one-year Advanced Diploma in Music Production and Sound Engineering, with Sontronics funding their full tuition.

The Institute, launched by Abbey Road and Universal Music in 2015, has become synonymous with excellence in music production education.

The Sontronics Scholarship is more than just financial support. It offers an aspiring creator the chance to study at one of the most respected audio schools in the world. The scholarship includes a bespoke package of Sontronics microphones and accessories, providing the recipient with

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01 April 2025

USA - Mid South Audio, an event production and integration solutions company based in Milton, Delaware, has made a significant addition to its lighting inventory with the acquisition of Elation's new Paragon LED profile moving head. Mid South has also added Elation’s versatile Pulse Panel effect light to its equipment line-up, further enhancing its ability to deliver lighting solutions for a wide range of events.

Founded by Kevin Short in 1989, Mid South Audio has developed a strong reputation for delivering innovative solutions to the production and integration market, with its lighting division continuing to expand through investments in new technology. “There is a wide range of applications for both the Paragon and Pulse Panel, so you will be seeing them on many of our projects going forward,” Short commented. “They are valuable a

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01 April 2025

Misleading - Ticketmaster "may have misled Oasis fans" with unclear pricing when it put their reunion tour on sale last year, the UK's competition watchdog has said. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said the company may have breached consumer protection law by selling ‘platinum’ tickets for almost 2.5 times the standard price, without explaining they came with no additional benefits.

"This risked giving consumers the misleading impression that platinum tickets were better," it said in an update to its investigation into Ticketmaster. The CMA has instructed Ticketmaster to change the way it labels tickets and reveals prices to fans in the future. Ticketmaster said it "welcomed" the advice. "At Ticketmaster, we strive to provide the best ticketing platform through a simple, transparent and consumer-friendly experience," a spokesperson told the B

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31 March 2025

USA/Europe - Meyer Sound has confirmed strategic organisational changes aimed at ‘better aligning the company’s strengths, capitalising on its monumental growth, and reinforcing its leadership structure’. Following a record-setting year in 2024 and 30% growth since pre-pandemic levels, the company says it is positioned to optimise its global operations and accelerate innovation.

In a broadened role, Meyer Sound senior vice-president John McMahon will now oversee R&D and operations in addition to sales and marketing, while key Meyer Sound regional leaders will assume expanded responsibilities. This strategic reorganisation aims to promote cross-functional collaboration and streamline processes from product conception to manufacturing and distribution, as well as reinforce global customer support as Meyer Sound continues to expand its ecosystems.

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28 March 2025

UK - The Backup Parish Council has announced that tickets for The Fabulous Village Fete, renamed for this year in celebration of Adam Taylor, aka Adam Fabulous, DJ and long-time supporter of the event, are about to go on sale.

Backup partners get access exclusive first access to purchase hospitality packages and tickets from 9am on 1 April, with access for general sale starting on 9am on 3 April.

The Fabulous Village Fete takes place on Thursday 10 July at Daytona Sandown Park, Esher, Surrey. Affectionately known as ‘the industry’s best day out’, this is the industry’s hottest event tickets of the year!

“Epson are once again sponsoring the Manor House, for those wanting a more exclusive experience, there’s the ever-popular Bake Off, Veg Off, and we’re adding a DJ Off where budding ind

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28 March 2025

USA - WSDG has announced the foundation of the Nancy Flannery Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship – named for the long-serving partner/CFO of the firm who passed away in 2023 – is offered through the AES Educational Foundation and was created to provide opportunities to women pursuing graduate-level studies in architectural acoustics.

The scholarship is available solely to AES-member students. The AES Educational Foundation is currently accepting applications through May 15. For more information, visit: https://www.aeseducationalfoundation.org/scholarships

“Nancy was the lynchpin of WSDG for many years – an incredible organiser and powerful spirit who saw us transform from a small, local operation into the global force for architectur

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27 March 2025

China - Lightware has announced the opening of its new Experience Centre in Hong Kong. This new facility reinforces Lightware’s commitment to supporting AV professionals in the Greater China region by providing an interactive environment to explore, test, and collaborate on cutting-edge AV solutions.

The Hong Kong Experience Centre is designed to serve as a hub for partners, customers, and consultants, offering hands-on demonstrations, real-world application setups, and advanced training opportunities. During the grand opening, Sam Ng, regional director for the Greater China Office, emphasised the centre’s significance in driving industry collaboration: “With dedicated facilities and expert support, the showroom helps organisations maximise their use of Lightware’s technologies while fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange on industry innovati

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27 March 2025

Luxembourg - Amplitude is a Cruchten, Luxembourg-based full service and production rental company working extensively across cultural events and show, music and corporate/industrial events.

It started investing in Robe moving lights over a decade ago and the most recent purchases have reflected a steady and ongoing commitment to the brand, with T1 Profiles, LEDBeam 350s and Spikies joining the fleet, and Amplitude has just confirmed the purchase of 12 Fortes, which will boost the creative options for lighting their larger shows.

Owner Jaakes Hoffmann took over running Amplitude 12 years ago. The company dates back to 1999, when it was well known for adding flair and imagination to a range of disco and dance together with venue installations. Once at the helm, Hoffmann saw a great opportunity to grow business in the arts and culture live event and mus

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27 March 2025

South Africa - For Namibian-based technical supply company, dB Audio, the past two decades have been all about training, growth, and getting even better at what they do.

Over the years, dB Audio has sent over 15 teams to DWR Distribution in South Africa for International Rigging and Basic Rigging courses, the most recent training having taken place earlier this year and presented by Ruud de Deugd of T&E Support. This is over and above attending workshops like Absen Certified Engineer training, roadshows, and open days that keep their crew sharp and ready to tackle anything.

Founded in 2004 by David Benade and Manu Jacobs, the company has always been about staying ahead of the game. “I can still remember the old days in 2004 like it was yesterday,” says Manu. “Back then I was excited, it was all about analogue gear, and suddenly there was di

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26 March 2025

USA - PPDS, global provider of Philips Professional Displays and complementary solutions, has announced its debut attendance at Seatrade Cruise Global 2025 (Miami, 7-10 April) – the world’s largest cruise ship exhibition – signalling the company’s latest business expansion.

Located inside the 500,000sq.ft Miami Beach Convention Centre in Florida, Seatrade Cruise Global – celebrating its 40th anniversary – brings together the global cruise community, allowing industry leaders to discover the cutting-edge strategies and technologies designed to advance the cruise industry.

The global team from PPDS, showcasing on Philips booth 4405, will join over 600 other exhibitors and an anticipated 11,000 visitors from around the world to demonstrate a range of display solutions spanning every area for cruise ships and luxury/super ya

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25 March 2025

Europe - Fresh for 2025, Showlight is introducing a new attraction - an enticing programme of informative, interactive Workshops guaranteed to get the creative juices flowing! These will take place on the afternoon of Wednesday 21 May 2025 and will be open to all delegates on a first come, first served basis, with a strong emphasis on student attendance.

The Workshops will be conducted by leading experts in their field and offer unprecedented insights into subjects from the latest technology to personal development. Numbers are limited so delegates will be encouraged to sign up for their choice of workshop via the Whova App when it goes live closer to the date.

Here’s the lowdown on Showlight’s inaugural Workshop presentations:

Workshop 1: Colour and Light

Led by lighting designer, author, and co-founder of Studio School of Design

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25 March 2025

Turkey - Renkus-Heinz has strengthened its presence across Europe and MENA with the appointment of Asimetrikas its exclusive distributor in Turkey.

With more than 4,000 successful projects in its portfolio, Asimetrik is an experienced distributor and integrator in the region. Made up of over 70 professionals, the team provides distribution and integration solutions for all its customers, utilising engineers from different disciplines to produce future-proof and sustainable solutions and bring flawless audio to all its projects. With headquarters in Istanbul and three regional offices, they offer support across the country.

Asimetrik vice-president, Gorkem Celikbilek, is delighted to welcome Renkus-Heinz to the fold. “This is a great match in terms of a non-compromising attitude to technical design, fast service and a competitive approach to the in

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25 March 2025

South Africa - Spottune, a Danish specialist in wireless audio solutions, has appointed StageOne as its official distributor in South Africa.

Spottune’s OmniExperience technology delivers 360-degree sound coverage, ensuring consistent volume levels across an entire space and eliminating dead zones common with traditional speakers.

Mads-Emil Poulsen, CEO of Spottune, comments: "Finding the right distribution partner is essential for delivering the best experience to our customers. StageOne has a deep understanding of the professional audio market and a strong network in South Africa, making them the ideal partner for Spottune. With their expertise, we are confident that businesses across South Africa will benefit from our wireless audio technology, improving both customer experience and operational efficiency."

Peter Berry, managing owner at

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25 March 2025

USA - To keep up with the ever-growing list of tours hitting the road this year, Bandit Lites has invested in expanding its touring inventory with a significant purchase of Claypaky lighting fixtures.

Working with Inner Circle Distribution (ICD), Claypaky’s exclusive US distributor and service network partners, this expansion ensures Bandit clients have the latest technology and gear to support multiple large-scale tours simultaneously.

One substantial purchase has been even more Claypaky Midi-B FX. Bandit first provided Midi-B FX on John Adamo’s design for Gary Clark Jr., a choice that garnered acclaim from fans and lighting enthusiasts alike. Demand for the fixtures quickly spiked and Bandit purchased another fleet. Creed sold out venues across the US with designer Mathias Kuhn also using the popular Midi-B FX. The next round can be spotted on