UK - Lee Valley Leisure Trust came into operation in April 2015 to run 14 of the major sports venues and other sites owned by Lee Valley Regional Park Authority.

Last summer Martin Audio partner, Old Barn Audio (OBA) undertook a sound system upgrade at the £31m Lee Valley White Water Centre in Waltham Cross, one of the host venues for the 2012 London Olympics, using the manufacturer's new CDD range. Such was the level of satisfaction that the integrators were immediately asked to provide a similar Martin Audio solution at another Group venue, Lee Valley Ice Centre in Leytonstone.

Within this cavernous space, the operators host a range of learn-to-skate and public skating sessions, while the international sized ice rink is also home to the Lee Valley Lions and London Raiders Ice Hockey teams and the Lee Valley London Skating Club.

But the 15-year-old system was start

The Netherlands - ESP/SurgeX will showcase Envision, a power diagnostics system that measures and records power conditions and presents detailed data in live or date-stamped reports at ISE 2016.

Envision provides energy data that can be used to accurately identify the source of common electrical issues the first time around, saving money for the consumer as well as time and resources for the integrator and electrician by preventing unnecessary services or repairs.

Available in both a 230 volt / 10 amp (EV-23010 IC) and 230 volt / 16 amp (EV-23016 IC) configuration, Envision features real-time diagnostic software and an integrated scope meter to better aid integrators on site.

The ESP/SurgeX Envision is a practical, powerful solution that integrators can deploy in both proactive and reactive scenarios. Envision can be used during pre-installation as an "electricity he

The Netherlands - The latest system from Ateis - the Boutique is a PA/VA system for small to medium size installations that offers a lot of sophistication in a deceptively easy to set-up system.

For installers less familiar with DSP programming, the Boutique offers an Auto Setup Wizard coupled with pre-recorded messages that can easily be selected depending on the situation. All pre-recorded messages as well as the GUI are available in multiple languages allowing the installer to be guided through the set-up process in his/her pre-selected language.

The Boutique system is built on a low-cost switchable amplifier solution where one amplifier can be shared for up to 8 zones. Several systems can also be networked to provide supervised zone coverage for up to 8,000 zones.

For more distributed applications, a built-in SIP client allows for audio streaming and monitoring of the

USA - Industry professionals have voted Meyer Sound's Leopard linear sound reinforcement system as the winner of the NAMM TEC Award for Sound Reinforcement Loudspeakers.

Presented in Anaheim, Calif. in conjunction with the 2016 NAMM Show, this is the sixth industry accolade for Leopard since its debut in 2015, and the 11th TEC Award win for Meyer Sound.

"Leopard had already received a number of other awards, but this one is particularly significant because the TEC Awards' open voting means that Leopard's exceptional quality is widely recognized throughout the pro audio and music communities," says Antonio Zacarias, Meyer Sound's vice president of worldwide sales. "We're thrilled that the Leopard team's dedication has earned such overwhelming industry approval."

(Jim Evans)

Independents' Days - This week, the UK music industry celebrates the third Independent Venue Week (IVW) with a week-long series of gigs all across the country. Led by London-based agency I Like The Sound of That, the seven-day long campaign is supported by the Arts Council through its Grants for the Arts funding programme. Its reach is expanding with 120 venues now taking part, from Aberdeen to Exeter and Belfast to Norwich. Among venues joining this year are Quay Arts (Isle of Wight), The Soundhouse (Leicester) and Nambucca (north London).

Helen Sprott, director of music at Arts Council England, says, "Arts Council England is pleased to be supporting I Like The Sound of That and their brilliant Independent Venue Week project for the second year running. It is vital that independent venues are recognised for the value they bring both to their local communities and the nati

Qatar - During Qatar National Day in December 2015, Creative Communication Group (CCG) was the company responsible for the sound through the whole Corniche area that included five different locations including the fireworks show. In order to cover the whole area with audio, CCG incorporated Xirium system, purchased from local distributor Nicolas Kyvernitis Electronics Enterprises (NMK), to ease the set up on areas where cable crossings were difficult and extended more than 100m.

The purchase of Xirium system for the event included four transmitters and 20 receivers. One of the challenges of whole project was to get signal across roads and extended it more than 300m. Xirium was used in the repeater mode and thanks to the system's software technicians were able to see the signal strength in different areas and plan accordingly.

CCG was established in 1998 in GCC as a full serv

UAE - Nicolas Kyvernitis Electronics Enterprises (NMK), distributor of Clear-Com in the United Arab Emirates for the live sound market segment, has recently supplied eclipse Staging Services with FreeSpeak II and HelixNet Partyline.

eclipse has purchased two HMS-4X HelixNet digital four channel headset/speaker main stations, 30 HelixNet digital two channel dual listen monaural beltpacks together with four dual channel 4-wire interfaces, two FreeSpeak II base stations and thirty FreeSpeak II digital wireless beltpacks.

Both FreeSpeak II and HelixNet were used at the third annual Internet of Things World Forum (IoTWF) that hosted over 2000 attendees in Dubai World Trade Centre. 24 wired stations of HelixNet and 16 wireless stations of FreeSpeak II covered intercommunication between the production and technical teams.

"The system was very easy to set up and operate. I w

Europe - After completing a successful sold-out tour of the US and Canada for much of last year, with a Martin Audio MLA PA provided by Showtime Sound LLC, popular actor-comedian, Kevin Hart, and his production manager, Scott Tydings, ensured they maintained continuity by asking Capital Sound to provide a similar rig when the What Now? tour arrived in Europe.

One of America's fastest rising comedy talents, Hart has released four comedy DVDs and appeared on numerous TV shows and in blockbuster films; he has over 20m worldwide followers each on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

As for Tydings he had clearly enjoyed the MLA experience both with Kevin Hart and fellow comedienne Amy Schumer. The fit with Capital Sound, who also specialise in providing sound reinforcement for top-drawer stand-up comedians was an obvious one - although as general manager Paul Timmins explained, the

Switzerland - The last day of March 2016 marks the end of the 25th year of operation for Merging Technologies. Claude Cellier founded the company in 1990 after his departure from Nagra and immediately embarked on a journey involving many ground-breaking innovations.

If Pyramix is the best known, the more recent introduction of RAVENNA/AES67 Networked Audio Interfaces, Horus and Hapi, is no less significant. In fact, these converters very quickly established themselves as the pinnacle of audio excellence as witnessed by the vast majority of Grammy nominations for classical recording using either or both converters. Networking has introduced many benefits and has revolutionized the facilities using this technology and with the industry approval of AES67, the options dramatically expand. Merging recognized the importance of allowing the maximum number of devices to connect to its

The Netherlands - A Meyer Sound team of acousticians will demonstrate the flexibility of the Constellation acoustic system at this year's ISE in Amsterdam. Integrators and design consultants seeking solutions for corporate offices and meeting rooms, university classrooms, and restaurants can demo the product every 30 minutes while asking questions of Meyer Sound's expert staff.

"The acoustics of a space define the critical baseline for sound in any AV installation," says John McMahon, Meyer Sound's vice-president of solutions and strategy. "With Constellation and complementary passive acoustical treatment, the design consultant and systems integrator can precisely define the acoustical character of a space to fully optimize the effect of music performance or voice communication. In addition, Constellation often reduces or even eliminates the need for direct ampli

UK - Tape London, situated just off Regent Street in London's Hanover Square, describes itself as, "an exclusive nightclub offering an elegant party experience for an elite, global crowd, attracting influential members of the music industry and music fans alike."

The venue, which opened in Autumn 2015, is a nightclub, recording studio and members lounge that aims to become the "home" of London's music industry. The nightclub offers an elegant and exclusive party experience, with sets from internationally renowned DJs attracting members of the music industry and music lovers. It is a unique, fresh and exciting new concept inspired by Grammy award winning producer Dallas Austin. The 250-capacity nightclub also has a full-sized stage for live performances.

The design brief for SSE Audio Group was to install a high quality audio system throughout the main bar

UK - With an increase of 26% of floorspace, the second edition of PLASA Focus Glasgow has been hailed a success with 50% more brands showcasing the latest in live entertainment technology and attendees increased by 32% since the inaugural show in 2014.

Cementing itself as the industry's essential meeting place for the region, the show - which opened its doors at the SECC from 20-21 January - offered live product demonstrations, two days of high quality seminar sessions and over 75 brands in an environment ideal for networking and generating business face-to-face. Attracting visitors with a combined spending power of £130m, the development of the show reflects the continued expansion of the industry in the region.

David Steedsy Stevenson from Ward Steedsy Audio, distributor of Funktion-One in Scotland comments: "It's the first time we've had a trade stand at a PLAS

USA - Shure Incorporated announced yesterday with great sadness the passing of their chairman, Rose L. Shure. Mrs. Shure passed away peacefully at her home.

A company statement said, "For more than 60 years, Mrs. Shure has served as an inspiration to all Shure Associates, past and present. She was a role model for Shure's Core Values and basic principles, created by her husband and company founder, Sidney N. Shure, that have guided the company.

"The welfare of Shure and its associates was her highest priority. Business integrity, respect, and fair treatment for all were her motivators. She provided a work environment that inspired creativity, fostered pride in making products of the highest quality, and encouraged all Shure associates to reach their personal potential."

Sandy LaMantia, Shure's Chief Executive Officer stated, "We have had the privilege

UK - Behind the Scenes UK Golf Day will take place on 13 April at The Drift Golf Course in West Horsley, Surrey. This extremely popular event to raise funds for the charity is almost sold out so register your team now and don't miss out. Teams already signed up include Autograph, Crewsaders, Creative Technology, Delta Sound, Media Lease, Meyer Sound, Shure, Stage Technologies/Tait, White Light, and Wonder Works.

"We have a fantastic day planned based around a very competitive 18-hole team game. Bring your best shots for a day of fun, food, networking, competition and fund raising for the industry's charity. Once the golf is done, we roll into evening with a BBQ, raffles, prizes and the chance to catch up with friends and colleagues. Set in the beautiful surroundings of The Drift Golf Club, this is the only BTS golf day for 2016 so make sure you are registered with your tea

USA - West Palm Beach, Florida's Family Church Downtown, formerly known as First Baptist Church, has replaced its aging centre cluster PA with an L-Acoustics line array system. The new rig comprises a total of 20 Kara(i) enclosures, flown left and right, complemented by three flown SB18 single-18-inch subwoofers per side, with four SB28 dual-18-inch subs positioned below the stage.

According to Allen Peerson, president of Jupiter, Florida-based Peerson Audio, Inc., which supplied and installed the L-Acoustics system, "I think my father did the original system, a single Altec Lansing multi-cell, when they built the church, and we put in the center cluster system over 20 years ago, so it was certainly time for an update.

"The new system uses flown subs, as well as subs underneath the stage, so they have really good low end throughout the building, even the upper balc

Denmark - Analog Way has announced a new partnership with Imago Sonas, an AV distributor specialist in Denmark. The company is now distributing Analog Way's solutions to system integrators in Denmark.

Imago Sonas is a leading supplier of audio visual solutions for AV integrators in Denmark. Effective now, Imago Sonas will be in charge of the distribution of Analog Way products for system integration companies in Denmark. The company will specifically distribute Analog Way's LiveCore series, a full range of scalable mixers and seamless switchers for premium integrations.

John De Cet, EMEA sales director at Analog Way comments, "Analog Way has been involved in major Integration projects in Denmark recently. Thanks to our partnership with Imago Sonas, we are looking forward to expanding our presence in Denmark as well as offering more support to our Danish customers."

USA - Markus Burger, coordinator of music technology at Fullerton College, CA, is in no doubt that the recent installation of an Audient ASP8024 analogue mixing console in the studio is an important addition to Audio Recording programme. "The era of consoles is coming back," he declares with confidence.

"We decided to buy the Audient console to allow students to experience a real studio environment," he explains, citing the fact that ALL students benefit from the upgrade. "Having a real board is an integral part of the authentic studio experience. The console itself helps conjure up that extra magic, highlighting to the musician that they are in a special situation. Seeing and hearing a great console also makes sure everyone is in that moment together."

Burger's drive and dedication to the Recording Programme at Fullerton has had a direct effect

UK - RCF partner, Nitelites, has become the first UK company to acquire RCF's flagship TTL55-A active PA system, having invested in a complete arena/festival sized system.

This will not only give the sound and lighting specialists the capacity to provide sound coverage of the largest festival sites but at the same time provide them with a number of scalable options for smaller events.

The consignment of 144 premium RCF cabinets includes 56 TTL55-A high-power three-way enclosures, 24 x TTS56-A 2 x 21" subs and 24 x TTS36-A 2 x 18" subs. In addition, a further 24 of the smaller TTL33-A will be used as down-fill boxes at the bottom of each hang, as well as in-fill duties, while 16 TTL36-AS will provide further LF extension, boosting the dynamic range of the flown arrays.

Aside from the speakers themselves, Nitelites director Andy Magee confirms that the purchase wa

The Netherlands - Attracting over 100,000 visitors every year, for three decades De Naald (The Needle) theatre in Naaldwijk has been a cultural hub for the region south-west of The Hague - since 2004 officially the Dutch municipality of Westland. The watchword for every aspect of the theatre's work is 'quality', which is why a QL1 has recently become its fourth Yamaha digital mixing console.

De Naald is truly at the heart of the community. As well as welcoming national and international performers and showing a wide range of films, the theatre showcases many performances by local groups and new talent. Around 10,000 primary school pupils visit annually, while secondary school students do work experience and stage performances.

The theatre's concept of 'quality' includes the shows, the audience experience/welcome, its service to the community and, of course, technical product

UK - Leading pro-audio provider The Warehouse Sound Services has reported a huge increase in footfall and interest during this year's PLASA Focus show in Glasgow. The company showcased a range of products from d&b audiotechnik, Avid, EM Acoustics, RCF, Shure, Allen + Heath, Yamaha and Sennheiser. The event provided the Scotland headquartered organisation an opportunity to exhibit in its hometown with feedback and enquiries surpassing all expectations.

With a significant increase in exhibitors and attendees, PLASA Focus generated two days of constant activity, high quality visitors and huge interest in The Warehouse's products and expertise.

At the event, The Warehouse showcased a range of quality audio products. Running alongside the main PLASA Focus show, The Warehouse hosted an Array Processing presentation at their Glasgow premises. The Warehouse is Scotland's only d&b au

The Netherlands - ISE 2016 will be showcasing a raft of Ravenna/AES67-enabled products from a number of different manufacturers as well as some exciting demonstrations of new applications. Ravenna partners present at the show include Lawo, Merging Technologies, DirectOut, Sennheiser, Riedel, Luminex, Cordial, Archwave and Genelec. There will also be product from Digigram on both the Ravenna and MNA stands.

One of the most exciting demonstrations to feature Ravenna-enabled product is the "immersive audio experience" taking place on the Merging stand (7-C160). The set-up combines Merging's newly released Ovation 6 software for their media server/sequencer with Genelec's pre-production Ravenna/AES67-enabled 4420 loudspeakers in an 18-speaker array. Backed by Merging's Horus and Hapi networked audio interfaces and Pyramix 10, Ovation 6 offers the power of an integrated 3D

Germany - Modeon Cultural Centre in Bavaria recently purchased an Allen & Heath GLD digital mixing system to manage all its audio requirements across several rooms and involving a varied programme of events.

The centre has several performing spaces, and runs a variety of different events, including theatre productions, panel discussions and conferences.

Selecting a GLD-80 mixer with AR2412 remote IO rack, the centre also installed a patch bay to change the expander port on the AR2412 or the console from one room to another, and enable the centre to run simultaneous events, all routed and controlled via the mixer, or an iPad with the GLD Remote app to alter the levels in the specific room. Furthermore, the system provides playback and recording capability via a Dante network card, offering up to four stereo playbacks and up to 64 recording channels.

"For Modeon, the p

The Netherlands - Powersoft arrives at ISE 2016 (Booth #7K-182) on the back of successful year spent raising market share in global markets.

Aside from their successes in concert touring, the release of the Dante-supporting Ottocanali series of multi-channel amplifiers (12K4, 8K4, 4K4) has given them a platform for installers that in turn has enabled them to raise their profile exponentially at this show.

Fittingly, the journey through 2015 ended with two Powersoft 12K4 amplifiers being specified and installed at global flagship brand the Ministry of Sound London, to drive the newly enhanced Dolby Atmos system in the main room, while across London at the same time Old Barn Audio were installing Powersoft at the Olympic White Water Centre and sister venue the Lee Valley Ice Centre, which also hosts several London Ice Hockey teams.

OBA's story is typical of many global inte

USA - Emanuel Lutheran Church on Santa Barbara's Modoc Road, recently decided to upgrade its audio system, and asked Brian Thompson of TNR Electronics in Ojai, and Ed Simeone of Dedicated Marketing in Westlake Village (both in California), to provide the upgrade. They wanted improved voice intelligibility and music quality, flexible configurations for their various services and a "hands-off" user interface for most services with the option of operator control when needed.

Simeone chose Allen & Heath's Qu-Pac digital audio mixer to fill these needs. It offered the hands-off, automatic-mixer operation the church wanted and an iPad interface for operator control when needed. The rack-mount Qu-Pac could be hidden in the church's equipment closet and had ample DSP for everything from house equalization to reverb for the choir mics.

As part of the upgrade, Simeone added

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