Hacousto International has expanded its Accent on Audio Solutions Range with the introduction a new 200W amplifier, the ACE2.200. The ACE2.200 features two powerful and highly efficient Class-T independent audio amplifiers, housed in a compact and lightweight 2U 19" rack mountable unit. The power efficient design and switched mode power supply offer Hacousto’s customers an addition to the Accent 8x8 digital mixer-router system launched at PLASA last year.

Suitable for 50, 70 or 100 volt line distribution systems, the ACE2.200 amplifier offers two individual channels with a 200W RMS output capability. Powered by either 115/230V AC mains or 24VDC supplies, the ACE2.200 is ideally suited for voice supported evacuation systems. Each amplifier channel features two individual inputs with switchable sensitivity and priority functions. Standard features include an extensive overloa

Designed for demanding applications, the XR-20 is the first in a line of professional Crest Audio X series rack mount mixers which address a wide range of applications. The XR-20 meets the varying needs of project studios, houses of worship, broadcasters, musicians and all facets of live sound reinforcement where it can be used as the primary mixer or as a highly flexible submixer.

AES-suggested grounding procedures are followed, resulting in excellent rejection of RF interference and ground-related noise. X-Rack mixers exhibit less than ±30° of input-to-output phase shift. XLR connectors are used on all primary inputs and outputs, while 1/4in TRS connectors are used for inserts, making it easy to interface with most professional audio gear. As with all of Crest Audio's mixing consoles, top quality components and advanced manufacturing techniques are used throughout, and the product

UK-based Navigator Systems has added a low-cost rental management software package called RentalDesk to their product range. Launched at PLASA, RentalDesk has been designed for the Small Business Enterprise which requires asset tracking but cannot justify the expense of larger and costlier systems. Commenting on RentalDesk’s debut at PLASA, Navigator’s David Rose told us: "The response to RentalDesk at PLASA was overwhelming. We had more serious enquiries on the first day than at the whole show last year."

Rose continued: "This is by no means a replacement for our larger systems, but a move to address the needs of smaller businesses which are looking to improve their operations, but don’t have the large amount of capital needed for new systems. During tougher economic times, those companies that have cut costs and become more efficient have a better cha

Martin Audio has increased its range of MA power amplifiers with the addition at PLASA of the MA900 (2 x 450W into 4 ohms), MA1400 (2 x 700W into 4 ohms) and the MA200Q (4 x 200W into 4 ohms). These models have been designed to meet the increasing demands of both the rental and installation markets, whilst remaining cost efficient.

By utilizing a conventional power supply with a toroidal transformer, in conjunction with the latest semiconductor technology and proprietary copper cooling, these fully featured amplifiers offer excellent sonic performance in a compact 2U package. They are capable of delivering maximum power into all impedances, including a two ohm load. The amplifiers have several new features specifically designed to make the products easier to use: these include a multiple position gain switch, to meet the demands for a flexible gain structure in the system; a removable

Lamba plc gave a PLASA Show debut to the PSS range of amplification from France, having recently acquired the distribution rights for the UK. The products’ innovative chassis design is matched by a cooling system, which blows fresh air directly towards the power transistors, allowing greater cooling and a more uniform temperature to the output stage.

PSS’ high headroom, dual transformer supplies independent power to both channels, providing extra power for the musical transients. This technology reduces background noise and results in an excellent signal-to-noise ratio. Meanwhile, new exclusive component placement design on the PCB creates the highest quality sound this type of amplifier can deliver. PSS amplifiers are equipped with high-grade components, including stainless steel encased bipolar power transistors for optimum cooling, extensive circuitry protection, 1% prec

Audio Engineering, the UK-based designer and manufacturer of Micron wireless microphone and communications systems, launched several new models in its 700 Series at IBC 2001 in Amsterdam. The new Micron 700 Series models - the TX700 belt pack transmitter, TX703 hand-held transmitter, SDR770 small diversity receiver and MR700 monitoring receiver - now feature tough, but lightweight, one-piece aluminium cases, with a unique design of quick-access battery compartment. Available with a choice of switching bandwidths to suit individual applications, and with up to 100 frequencies, the 700 Series now includes a 32-frequency entry-level system - comprising a matching TX700 transmitter and SDR770 receiver.

Also launched at IBC as part of the revised 700 Series was the Micron MDR762 twin diversity receiver, a mains-powered 1U rack-mounting system incorporating two audio channels, and aimed at s

Martin Audio took advantage of PLASA to expand its Blackline range. The new Blackline F8 is a versatile, two-way passive system designed for applications where high output is required from an ultra-compact enclosure. It features a long-excursion 200mm (8") low frequency driver and a 25mm (1") HF compression driver mounted on a 90º x 50º horn. The horn is user-rotatable to allow the F8’s multi-angled enclosure to be used in either its vertical or horizontal orientation. Special attention has been given to the high excursion requirement of the LF driver. This enables the sound balance of the speaker to remain consistent throughout a range of power outputs. Where extra low frequency is required, sub-bass systems such as the Blackline S12 or S15 may be added.

The Blackline F10 is a 2-way passive system, designed to provide high quality club sound and stage monitoring from

Mackie Industrial, the contractor products division of Mackie Designs Inc, announced at the recent PLASA Show the introduction of its 'Mackie Central' rapid proposal development software. The Mackie Central V.1 software application is aimed at automating the proposal and documentation facets of a sound contractor's business. Written specifically for the sound contracting market, the software aims to streamline the creation of professional proposals that are routinely created by contractors for design/build and negotiated bids.

The key to the product's appeal is the fact that it includes a fully-automated drag-and-drop Quotation Builder that performs all of the calculations typically assigned to a spreadsheet. In addition, the program assembles written descriptions for each of the products in the database into a Word-compatible proposal. The product thereby provides a finished, professi

Crown Audio announces the recent availability of its powerful IQ for Windows software version 5.0. Like the previous IQ for Windows version 4.1, the new software application, which is designed for configuring, controlling and monitoring Crown IQ Systems, is available for free download from the Internet.

Compatible with Windows 95, 98, ME, 2000/Professional and NT 4.+, version 5.0 features a number of enhancements that make it even easier to use. IQ System integrators now have an even greater number of graphical tools with which to design customized work surfaces foroperators, as well as the ability to create direct user controls free of confusing program elements. Fully indexed help screens are available to informatively guide users through system setup, and no programming language experience or training is required to quickly be up and running.

Receiving their UK debut at this year’s PLASA show were Proel’s new TFL218SP 2x18" subwoofer and TFL152P 1x15" full-range enclosure. The TFL218SP features twin 18" drivers with 4" voice coils delivering output up to 133dB and a frequency range down to 35Hz. Power handling is 1200W (AES), and the system has a sensitivity of 100dB @ 1W/1m.

The TFLV152P pairs a high quality 4" voice coiled 15" speaker with an HF compression driver fitted with a 3" titanium diaphragm. The TFLV152P has a frequency response of 45Hz-18kHz (+/- 6dB) and will handle 600W (AES). The two-way configuration, bi-amp/full range selectable, produces great bass output, while the compression driver/horn assembly smoothly disperses mid-frequencies over an optimum field.

Ideal used in pairs, the new systems join Proel’s TFLV flying installation series of 18mm birch-

Los Angeles-based Elation Professional has introduced the Pro Color DMX color changer, a highly affordable intelligent colour changer that features 10 dichroic colors and 10 split colors. It includes a bright, 150W 9,000 hour discharge lamp and a special frost filter that produces a dynamic wash effect. The Pro Color is aimed at venues requiring more colouring options than a standard Par can provides, but who may not be able to afford the full colour-wash fixtures. The Pro Color also is equipped with two DMX channels that can be programmed to set the tone for any application. One channel controls the frost filter and a 0-100% dimmer, while the other operates the color wheel. This makes it easy for the user to program the Pro Color and automatically keep the coloured background effects changing. A 10-19° beam angle can be adjusted to set any stage accordingly.

Trantec has responded in the best way possible to the request from high-profile rental companies to upgrade its award-winning S5000 synthesized UHF system. The first choice for many leading event-based production houses, the S5000 has taken pride of place in their rental fleets for the last five years. But at this year’s PLASA Show visitors saw how this feedback had been processed in the form of a new S5000 beltpack - programmable from a Palm Pilot.

As Trantec marketing manager Tim Riley told us: "It was only a matter of time before we put the ideas we had been receiving into production. After all, if you don't listen to the people who are going to be using the kit before going into production, how can you expect to sell anything?" The new S5000 beltpack is powered by single AA battery, giving around eight hours of use. Gain, frequency and user name can be programmed vi

Formula Sound had an overwhelming response to their latest mixer, the PM-100 modular mixer launched at PLASA 2001. The three standard chassis versions were on display and great interest was shown in the four-channel version. The configurations of this mixer are so versatile that it is ideal for almost any requirement, live bands, audio-visual, clubs, mobile DJ.

Drawmer has announced an upgraded version of the DC2476 Digital Processor, the product which initiated the company's successful digital Masterflow range. New features include comprehensive up/down sample rate conversion (32kHz to 96kHz) and switchable word clock input/output sample rate selection. Also featured is an absolute stereo output trim (up to 12dB) which is invaluable when output level is required to conform to broadcast regulations. The output trim level is maintained even in 'system bypass' mode in order to prevent accidental level increases during transmission. A tone generator with variable output levels for line-up purposes is also included.

The DC2476 Masterflow Digital Processor is a 24-bit/96K multi-dynamics processor which features Drawmer's acclaimed multi-band digital 'bootstrap' compression, tube saturation and advanced EQ processing suitable for mastering, trackin

Sennheiser has expanded its evolution range of dedicated instrument microphones with a competitively priced, high quality condenser model, the e664. Designed for applications such as drum kit overheads, or acoustic instrument miking, such as for guitars or strings, the e664 features low noise electronics, high output and a highly sensitive capsule for both studio and live performance applications.

The e644’s cardioid response pattern provides highly effective feedback and rear-field signal rejection. In keeping with the evolution ethos, the e664 offers build and performance specifications superior to microphones several times its price. The metal bodied mic features a matt-black, anodised, scratch-resistant finish. A switchable low frequency roll-off filter protects against low level hum and rumble, while the capsule provides a 40 - 20kHz frequency response (+ 2.5dB) and a 130dB

Renkus Heinz’s new PNX Series loudspeakers offer the same high level of system integration and unsurpassed performance as the active powered PN Series, with external System Specific Electronics. The PNX Series consists of 10 compact full-range two-way loudspeaker systems and five Reference Point Arrays (RPAs). They incorporate design breakthroughs such as rotatable Complex Conic horns, TRue Array Principle (TRAP) design and RPA systems integration. The ultra-compact PNX61s, PNX81s and PNX82s provide the studio monitor quality required in many of today's high-end applications. Multi-angle enclosures with 6" or 8" woofers and rotatable Complex Conic horns make it easy to deliver transparent source reproduction from floor monitor positions as well as stand-, wall- or ceiling-mounted locations.

The PNX121 and PNX151 provide the solution when more output or tighter direction

West London-based Ampekko has been awarded the sole UK distribution of the full range of Commax sound equipment from Korea. Commax is recognised as one of the world’s largest electronics firms whose commitment to quality design and manufacturing has set them apart in the OEM market. Established in 1968, Commax offer advanced digital telecommunications products, as well as a full range of commercial pro audio equipment. Products include 100v low impedance amplifiers from 100W to 1000W, mixers, routers, zone controllers, and other ancillary items such as fans and chimes.

Commax products were exceptionally well received at the recent PLASA show, say Ampekko. Sussex-based installers Blucat, who supply independent breweries, leisure and retail units with sophisticated 47-channel satellite music systems, have placed a considerable order for Commax specialist amplification. Jennifer Lin

The UV400 high intensity 400W ultra violet floodlight has proved a popular choice for visual effects since its launch last year, say manufacturer UV Light Technology. The level of international sales has prompted the Birmingham-based company to introduce a built-in electronic 'smart0box' to allow ‘plug in and switch on’ use anywhere in the world. The new electronics also facilitate power variation down to 60% of maximum, enabling adjustment of the light intensity and increasing of bulb life through under-running. A new rotating barndoor unit has also been added to the range, allowing more directed lighting effects. Light intensity may be adjusted by using Par 64 scrollers, which also permit rapid on/off ultra violet effects peviously not achievable with non-hot restrike ultra violet floodlights.

CIE-Audio, exclusive UK representative for the Inter-M commercial and pro audio range, has announced the launch of the latest addition to the ‘PAM’ Series of modular amplifiers. With a successful track record gained from the smaller 60W and 120W versions, the new PAM-240 and PAM-360 benefit from many of the features which have made this product so popular. In particular, the PAM’s unique modular ability to ‘slot-in’ two music modules from the choice of tuner (PAM-T), CD (PAM-CDA) or cassette player (PAM-D). These new 240W and 360W 100v line amplifiers also feature selectable priority outputs and six mic-line inputs with selectable phantom power. These desktop units also come supplied with an optional rackmount kit.

Already recognized for the success of its Soundweb product in the installation market, BSS Audio has released a new processor for this expanding area, aimed particularly at integrated system solutions.

The ProSys PS8810 is a fixed path digital processor, with eight inputs and ten outputs, that each have a dedicated processing path which includes EQ filters, gates, compressors, auto-mixers and delays, as well as other processing objects. With its fixed path design, system installers need only configure the routing matrix and decide which of the processing objects will be utilized. Once these are established, the set-ups may be stored as presets and recalled via the PC, contact closure or the 8810’s own internal events scheduler. All functions of the PS8810 are set-up and controlled from a PC running IQ-WIN software, the control suite that can run a variety of types of audio equipm

Distribution company Coemar De Sisti Australia has announced the availability of the CAT (Colour Advanced Technology) from Space Cannon. This is a professional exterior and interior wash/spot luminaire that represents the state-of-art in specialized outdoor floodlighting. Small, light, efficient and environmentally friendly (without IR and UV rays output), CAT is designed to meet the specific needs of the architectural lighting professionals, combining impressive light output with unlimited colour mixing, variable photo metrics, all in a fully weatherized IP66 static unit. The CAT provides a cost-effective, full-featured alternative to other architectural fixtures available. The full colour mixing system, able to supply more than one million colours, is an innovative world-wide patented tubular quartz dichroic system which provides smooth and saturated cross fades throughout the entire c

The new MPro Series MP418SP from JBL Professional is an 18" subwoofer with its own Crown two-channel integrated power amplifier. Designed for use with other MPro Speakers or powered speakers such as EON G2 models, the Mpro 418SP is a versatile solution for low frequencies for live music and DJ applications.

The MP418SP is a powerful, single 18-inch (457mm) subwoofer in a compact bass reflex enclosure with a frequency range of 30-150 Hz. It features an integral dual channel amplifier/ signal processing module designed and built by Crown Audio specifically for it. This provides two channels of power with 660W at 4 ohms. The second amplifier channel can be used to power a full range speaker or a second subwoofer (such as the companion MP418S non-amplified version of the MP418SP). The amplifier module also passes through line level signals for powered satellite speakers.

Roadworthi

Proel has announced the latest additions to their cable catalogue, specifically produced for the installation market. The CMP Series are distinguished by their green outer jackets, housing a series of multi-pair fire-resistant cables for fixed applications in recording and television studios as well as cinemas, disco’s theatres and live sound PA applications. Double shielded by aluminium and polyester foil within a flame-resistant PVC jacket, the numbered paired cables are highly resistant to signal loss due to outside interference.

Three models are currently available - the CMP 8, 12 and 20 - each model number representing the number of pairs contained. In addition, a new double-shielded fire-resistant microphone cable has also been introduced. The HPC 210 FR is also contained in a green flexible outer jacket, which is shielded by tinned copper and is light in weight (30g/m).

JBL Professional has added the SB210 Compact Subwoofer to its extensive line of Control Contractor products. Just 14" tall, the dual 10" unit has a frequency range of 42Hz - 200Hz to add low frequencies to fixed installation sound systems in virtually any professional application, including restaurants, retail, theme parks, exhibits and displays, even small church and performing spaces. The SB210 has two 10" (254 mm) aluminium/ceramic composite cone woofers, for a total power handling capability of 400W continuous (1600W peak). Intended for use indoor or outdoor, the SB210 features a high-impact polystyrene cabinet and multilayer thermoset composite-covered grille for full weather-proofing, and is available in either black or white.

"The small profile of the SB210 belies its power and its ability to offer warm, punchy low end," explained Rick Kamlet, senior dir

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