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UK - Midas has announced its adoption of the AES50 standard interface for multi-channel digital audio, and that it has licensed the AES50 (SuperMAC) and HyperMAC technologies from Sony Pro-Audio Labs, Oxford for implementation in Midas and Klark Teknik equipment.

AES50, implemented by Sony as SuperMAC, can carry up to 48 bi-directional audio channels plus 5Mbps of generic Ethernet control data on a single CAT5 cable. HyperMAC can carry up to 384 bi-directional audio channels plus 100Mbps Ethernet on CAT6 cable or fibre.

Despite the current availability of many different proprietary methods for transmitting audio over Ethernet hardware, Midas believes that the AES50 approach has some key advantages - especially in live sound applications. Extremely low latency (less than 70 microseconds) allows multiple links to be used without unacceptable delay build-up, and robust error corr

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UK - Yamaha's latest addition to its award-winning range of digital consoles, the M7CL, sits comfortably in the mid-point between the more studio/installation oriented DM and O series, and the flagship live mixing consoles PM1D and PM5D. Maintaining the classic feature set of the PM range, and the highly respected operational power of all Yamaha digital consoles, M7CL presents a uniquely accessible control surface.

"If there is any fear factor left for sound engineers in the concert fraternity, this is the desk that will lay that fear to rest," says the company's Karl Christmas. "Easier to use than a conventional analogue desk: That was the dream we set ourselves; the development of Centralogic being the interface which made that dream a reality. A completely intuitive touch-panel control surface guides the user through a natural progression thanks to a straightfo

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UK - Visual-Patch, developed by Artistic Licence, has won the PLASA 2005 Award for Innovation. Combining video recognition technology and newly developed software, Visual-Patch can map and patch even the most complex lighting arrays.

A digital camera is positioned before the array and detects the size, position and shape of each pixel to be used, in both symmetrical and random patterns. This information is then analyzed by Visual-Patch, which generates an automatic lighting plot on screen.

Visual-Patch uses Remote Device Management (RDM) to set the start address of each fixture during the patching process. RDM is a new control protocol that allows lighting fixtures to talk back to the controller.

When Visual-Patch completes you are left with a lighting rig that is fully patched and a lighting controller that knows the position and address of every fixture. All that without e

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Australia - Ardiso - Artificial Digital Solutions is a new specialist designer and manufacturer of leading edge digital LED light sources and control interfaces. The company's design expertise is in the lighting of rare artifacts for museums along with architectural and entertainment effects lighting.

Museum fit outs are the company's fastest tracking product range with products like the Avalon series featuring a flat smooth distribution, no UV and a thermal design. The company say that these features will lead changes in the way delicate artifacts in museums are lit in the future.

Ardiso has designed a complete spatial control system that will soon intelligently monitor the complete cabinet controlling everything from temperature, light levels, viewing presence, feedback and shutdown, all from a central logic device mounted below the display cabinet.

With the pre-release of

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UK - Barco is holding an open day this week to showcase its new B-10 - a cost-effective solution to providing large screen LED video and graphics wherever they are needed. The Barco B-10 is a a mobile, self-contained outdoor LED solution, which incorporates a rotatable 9sq.m LED display mounted on a trailer.

The B-10 is a cost-effective mobile LED solution incorporating Barco's well-known SLite 10 outdoor LED technology, which is aimed at bringing the 'wow' factor of an LED display to any event, large or small, say Barco. The B-10 is a multipurpose display solution that can be used to play any type of video or data content, including play back live footage or show advertising and promotional messages.

The B-10 works in accordance with the 'drive and play' principle. Drive to the event location, pull out the screen, and the show is on in no time. No need for structures or truss

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USA - Ever since the Source Four profile spotlight was invented from a blank canvas in 1992, ETC has worked to ensure it remains the cutting edge tool for lighting professionals. The brightest luminaire in its class, the Source Four is the benchmark against which others are measured. Continuous development has seen progressive increases in light output (62% more punch since the luminaire's introduction), enhancements to the lens and reflector and innovative modifications to the lamp itself.

Now the Source Four is set to become even better, with the launch at PLASA 2005 of a potent new accessory, the EDLT - the Enhanced Definition Lens Tube. Designed as an option for the Source Four fixed focus profile, the EDLT provides even crisper projections with greater acuity and higher contrast. The EDLT makes graphics look even better and the beam edge even sharper, with no loss in field

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UK - Lab.Gruppen has introduced the C Series, a new power amplification solution for permanent installations. The networkable C Series is designed to meet the consultant's expectation for great-sounding amplifiers, the contractor's need for flexible and easy installation and the customer's budget constraints, with the least compromise all-around, say the manufacturer.

At the heart of the C Series solution are four 4-channel amplifiers ranging from 400W to 1700W per channel, each packed with features true to the 25 years of research and development that exist in Lab.Gruppen products today. Each amplifier permits the individual adjustment of maximum voltage peak output, bridge-mode operation, gain adjustment; and as standard, features on-board network capability for monitoring and control. With these features it is now possible to specify identical amplifiers in an installation an

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USA - The new SeaChanger Colour Engines from Ocean Optics made their theatrical debut in July at the USA's largest community theatre. The CYM colour changers, which install easily into ETC Source Four ellipsoidal spotlights and require no cooling, were used at the Omaha Community Playhouse. John Gibilisco, resident designer and production electrician, said he was "very impressed".

The innovative SeaChanger Colour Engine uses robust dichroic filter technology to create millions of brilliant, rich, reproducible colours that will not fade, degrade or shift colour with time or temperature. "The simple and smooth colour transitions are impressive," said Gibilisco. "I'm using the extreme magenta feature to produce saturated reds that I could never sustain using conventional colour filters."

The SeaChanger colour engines are quiet in operation and elimin

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UK - 5 Star Cases, the Cambridgeshire-based flightcase manufacturer, showcased its recent major investment into 3D modelling software at the recent PLASA Show. 'Solid Edge' from UGS, was demonstrated over the four-day event by 5 Star's Andy Stockdale, who has been implementing the system into the company's facilities over the past few months.

The main software capabilities were demonstrated including the fabrication of case fittings and hardware, case assemblies and photo-realistic rendering. Integration into other company facilities were also demonstrated, such as generation of production ready geometry for use with CNC machining systems. XpressReview, a free 'client-based' application was also shown.

Keith Sykes, 5 Star's works director, said: "The interest shown by both new clients and existing customers in this new software was fantastic. The company will be 'rolling

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UK - QXi215, the eagerly awaited addition to Celestion's popular QXi Series is now in full production and shipping to customers worldwide. Designed for applications that demand a big bass sound from a single unit, QXi215 features some exciting new design developments, say the company.

Two 15" Celestion Truvox drivers - one direct radiating, the other mounted inside the ported, birch-ply cabinet at 90 degrees - form a modified band pass system. This ingenious driver loading arrangement results in pure, natural sounding audio with a solid, tight bottom end.

This full-range, quasi 3-way, sound reinforcement system also incorporates a 75W Celestion CDX1-1745 ceramic compression driver, delivering the optimum balance between performance, efficiency, weight and cost. Not only does the QXi215 easily out-perform other 2 x 15" cabinets at this price point, this forward-thinki

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UK - In a move to bring the cost of high-quality wireless systems substantially lower, Sennheiser launched its new freePORT range at the recent PLASA Show. The three versions - Vocal, Instrument and Presentation - all allow four switchable frequencies to be operated simultaneously, ensuring high transmission reliability and flexibility.

"FreePORT offers outstanding quality at a tremendously low price," said Michael Polten, industry team manager for the music industry at Sennheiser. "The systems can be operated without licensing and without a fee in many European countries."

All three have a Diversity receiver installed in a sturdy metal housing, ensuring optimum reception. Other features include a dynamics processor for a clear and natural sound, XLR and jack plug outputs, and an adjustable squelch to protect against interference. Low battery drain means th

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UK - At therecent PLASA Show, Sennheiser showed the MS-88 - the first bi-directional ready product to be introduced by NetCIRA. This unit will allow a mix of input and output devices to be used at any point in the network allowing a two-way flow of information around the network utilizing a single Cat 5 cable. The MS-88 also includes an RS 232 port for external PC or integration with third party products, and word clock on a BNC connector. Other features include automatic transmitter or receiver configuration, front or rear fittable interface cards, and an extensive range of input and output cards.

Also introduced at PLASA was the new MI-6C input card which allows mic/line operation configurable via your PC. Designed for PA, stage, logging and conference situations, features include: configurability on a per channel basis, mic/line input, 48 volt phantom power, PAD (mic/line), h

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Spain / UK - Spanish pro audio manufacturer Vieta has added to its loudspeaker product portfolio with the introduction of a number of new products, shown for the first time at the recent PLASA exhibition, by UK distributor KV2. All of the new designs have been produced in response to input from Vieta's growing network of international distributors and customers.

The Vieta DO-80S is a new sub-bass design, added to the Vieta DO Line, which consists of high-performance passive speakers, specifically designed to ensure accurate sound reproduction in different types of acoustic spaces, such as auditoriums, theatres, pubs, discotheques, and shopping centres. The attractive and discrete design of the DO Line cabinets enables them to be easily integrated within differing styles of décor, and all models are both acoustically and mechanically resilient.

The DO-80S passive sub-bas

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UK - Navigator Systems' latest software release, HireTrack Eclipse v2.3 is also available in a new 'Try-it' download. Try-it has no time restrictions or missing features and when users are ready to buy, any data they have put into the 'Try-it' version can be easily transferred to the full version, say the company.

This new version of HireTrack Eclipse is the result of almost 18 months of work, including over six months spent in testing and stabilization. It is, by far, the most solid version released and includes hundreds of new and updated features, most of which came from requests by Navigator Systems' customers. The program also now includes an auto-updating feature, so users can be sure that they always have the latest version.

The 'Try-it' version is now available for download from the company's website, plus full details and manuals for the product.

(Sarah Rushton-Read

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Europe - Available throughout Europe since 2000, the IES Matrix dimming system was created to take advantage of a new generation of sine wave technology which allowed dimmers of different ratings and dimming techniques to be mixed in the same installation. Now, with just 44mm additional headroom, the new IES Matrix Mk II from ETC is one of the most flexible systems available, with the greatest choice of channel ratings and module options available, plus higher density and improved efficiency, say ETC.

The extra 44mm has enabled ETC to increase the density of the rack up to 180 dimmer channels. With space for up to six dimming channels per module, Matrix Mk II is customisable with up to 180 x 3kW or 90 x 5kW dimmers per rack. Sine wave modules are available as 4 x 3kW, 4 x 5kW and 1 x 10kW, with an even greater choice of channel ratings for SCR Basic and high filtering modules. W

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UK - Hall Stage collected an Innovation Award from the PLASA exhibition in London for the second year running. Following last years' success with the DGS Counterweight Drive system, this years launch of the D8++ chain hoist represents Halls' first product in the sector and proves the depth of technical development coming out of the 100-year-old business in recent months, say the company.

Designed by ASM to meet the exacting requirements of the German BGV C1 safety categorisation, D8++ means a rig will not require a 'secondary' or safety suspension line, saving hours of valuable stage time and hundreds of pounds in kit.

D8++ is also virtually silent, so can be used in quiet stage conditions. On board electronics mean the unit can be controlled with a cheap power inversion system instead of an expensive compliant system required by the competitive hoists.

Charles Haines, Hall

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uk - dAFTdATA has had a hectic twelve months leading up to PLASA 2005, which saw the launch of its new mDMX product.

PLASA 05 saw the introduction of the 5.8 GHz frequency range to compliment the established 2.4 GHz frequencies that eDMX currently works at. eDMX is now the only system on the market which allows the user to send the signal wirelessly at both 2.4 and 5.8GHz - to ensure connectivity at all times.

PLASA 05 also saw the launch of the new mDMX system that will be available from Avolites in the New Year. mDMX currently allows for up to four universes of DMX to be modulated down the mains cable up to 400m. dAFTdATA expect to be able to increase the capacity in the new year in addition to supporting video over mains as well.

The partnership with Avolites to incorporate dAFTdATA's WENDI system into its eDMX product has seen eDMX used for wireless DMX data transfer wor

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UK - Software providers Stardraw.com unveiled Stardraw Control RC2 (Release Candidate 2) for the first time at the recent PLASA 2005. Billed as a software-based, unified framework that can control any remotely-controllable product from any manufacturer over any protocol, Stardraw Control RC2 is the final pre-release version of the application which is scheduled for final availability later this quarter.

Stardraw Control generates standalone, customized control programs. Like other Stardraw applications it is fast, powerful, flexible and easy to use; with a drag-drop interface and intuitive design environment, installers are able to configure systems and control them without having to write a single line of code. Utilization of Microsoft.net technology means that control programs are portable and can run on any Windows-enabled device, from PC to PDA.

Stardraw Control's open arc

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Computer DJ was again at PLASA with an array of new products. Of particular interest for bars and clubs as well as light and sound installers was the new Q-Play digital music system, say the company.This touch screen unit will play the required style of music for up to 365 days a year. The system incorporates bio-metric (fingerprint) security, ensuring that only those authorized to do so can change the music (or its volume). The system can be managed by venue staff or programmed remotely via an optional secure internet link.

The other product to attract a stream of visitors was the newly developed Screenfly. This software programme can be used to generate immediate adverts and other live messages on the plasma screen. Within seconds the user can display special offers; introduce new products; show menu details; etc. Screenfly can also be used interactively or to entertain customers and

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UK - As well as having one of the most eye-catching stands at the event, Pulsar unveiled a number of new products at the recent PLASA Show. In addition to the existing ChromaBatten200 and ChromaFlood200, the range now includes a ChromaBatten100 (available in 600 and 1200mm widths) and the compact ChromaFlood100. All units are IP65-rated and are powered directly from 100-240V; they have full remote DMX control of RGB levels for colour mixing, and internal sequences provide operation without a separate control system.

Another addition to the ChromaBatten range is the ChromaBatten50 - a 300mm (1ft) wide, IP65-rated fixture. ChromaBatten50 is powered and controlled from the ChromaZone and up to a maximum of four pieces can be driven from a ChromaZone12.

Adding to the highly successful ChromaStrip2 is the new ChromaStripX3 High Power LED strip, offering three times the power of the

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UK - The Pharos Lighting Playback Controller (LPC) was awarded a prestigious Award for Innovation during PLASA 2005. The coveted Awards were judged by a panel of industry professionals, who were impressed by the Pharos product's "versatile operating system that is destined to set the benchmark for installation controllers". This success follows on from the Award for Best of Category (Controls and Controls Software) Pharos received at LightFair International in New York earlier this year.

Pharos is a solid state, fit-and-forget solution for control of colour mixing fixtures, dimmers, ballasts and moving lights using either DMX or DALI protocols, and the judges praised it as being "a beautifully engineered lighting controller". A comprehensive range of expansion modules allows it to connect with a host of other triggers and protocols, all in a compact DIN rail-

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UK - Hand Held Audio, UK dealers for Ultimate Ears, have taken delivery of the first shipment of the new 'Super.fi' earphones range. The strength of the California-based manufacturer in the custom earpiece market has resulted in a burgeoning relationship with Hand Held, the UK in-ear monitoring specialist.

The Super.fi range has been developed to address the growing interest in high quality, universal fit earphones for pro audio and for the iPod / mobile listening market. The super.fi studio 3 are single armature, full-range earphones offering high-quality musical sound, with clear highs and a solid low end which will be hard to better in this type of driver, say Hand Held.

The super.fi 5 Pro is a dual armature driver earpiece with a punchy low end, transparent highs and a wide dynamic range which makes it an ideal choice for use with in-ear monitoring. The super.fi 5EB is a s

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UK - Surrey-based professional loudspeaker manufacturer EM Acoustics held a series of extremely successful demonstrations during the recent PLASA show in Earls Court, where its products were exhibited by Autograph Sales. Held a short distance from the show in a nightclub, the full EM Acoustics product range was on show, including several new products.

EM Acoustics sales director Chris Hinds said: "Holding a demo away from the show worked very well for us. We had product on display on the Autograph Sales stand, which gave people a point of contact within the show, and for those who wished to see and hear the products in operation as well as talk to the designers it gave them a local venue with a relaxed atmosphere to listen properly."

PLASA saw the official launch of three new products from EM Acoustics - the EMS-152 medium-Q full-range enclosure, the EMS-112 compact

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UK - HSL's rigging team has designed a new strong and highly versatile tower capable of lifting loads up to 2 tonnes, complete with a small and neat footprint, say the company.

Developed with very speedy build times in mind, HSL say it is ideal for city centres, green field sites and any other location. With a mast height of 13m to fly point, it has a base size of 4.5 x 4.2m, a maximum payload of 2000kg in wind speeds of up to 44mph or 20m/s. Ballast weighs in at 2400kg and the average build time is around two-and-a-half hours when using a build crew comprising one HSL rigger and four local crew; de-rig is around an hour-and-a-half using the same crew, say the company. On-site machinery required is just one Telehandler for one hour on the in and out.

HSL Rigging supplies a full health and safety policy and structural report directly to the production or site manager. Once the

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  2. Carlsbro: Innovation Award at PLASA 2005
  3. Rapid Fit 4 from the Australian Monitor series
  4. DTS plans "aggressive growth"
  5. Lycian Stage Lighting introduces new followspot
  6. Wire Rope Ladder Standard available for review
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