USA - When the NFL began plans more than four years ago to move its headquarters from Culver City, California, to a new facility a few miles away in Inglewood, they had a vision for creating one of the world's most state-of-the-art, IP-based broadcast production facilities, and they carried that vision straight into the endzone. With its opening just before the 2021 season kick-off, the new NFL Media headquarters became the official home for NFL Network, NFL.com, NFL RedZone, the NFL app, and many other departments supporting the league’s media operations. This ultramodern, IP-based, 4K and HDR-capable production facility employs more than 1,000 people, and houses five main stages, all supported by numerous production-control rooms, audio-control rooms, and workstations. According to Bruce Goldfeder, vice president, broadcast engineering at NFL Media, this producti
Germany - Peter Lawo, founder of the company for broadcast and media technologies named after him, passed away on 24 November 2022, at the age of 85. The committed engineer and entrepreneur founded today’s Lawo AG in 1970 and laid the foundation for the company’s worldwide reputation and economic success with innovative audio products and uncompromising quality standards. In the 1970s, Peter Lawo developed an electronic sound processor for the music of contemporary composer Karl-Heinz Stockhausen, which strongly influenced the compositions of ‘New Music’. His contacts with musicians led to first projects with regional public broadcaster Suedwestfunk (SWF) and installations at the station’s so-called Experimental Studio. This was followed by developing the first audio mixing system for SWF, which was used for music mixes with artists such as Pierre Boulez, Luigi Non
Europe - The ESD range of two-way and three-way passive loudspeakers from KV2 offers a wide variety of loudspeaker solutions ranging from the ultra-compact ESD Cube, suitable for peripheral reinforcement in bars, theatres, clubs, houses of worship, museums etc., right through to the powerful ESD15 and ESD36. ESD15 is capable of acting as a standalone PA/monitor system due to its excellent bass response, whilst the ESD36 has found favour with AV rental and production companies as well as for the theatre and worship market as a powerful, full-range solution with excellent vocal intelligibility in a compact format. KV2 has now extended the range with the addition of the ESD8, which slots neatly between the existing ESD6 and ESD10. As its name suggests, the ESD8 is a compact passive 2-way, high output full-range loudspeaker incorporating an 8" trans-coil woofer and a 1" co
USA - River Oak Church started as an offshoot from another church around 20 years ago in a school auditorium. They were soon able to start a multi part building project, first building a gymnatorium, and later offices and classrooms. In 2020, the growing church broke ground on a new, purpose-built facility in Chesapeake, Virginia, to house their burgeoning ministry. When Justin Fugett was tapped to help bring River Oak Church’s new facility to life in 2021, he understood the importance of the intercom system from his experience as a freelancer working with local broadcast organisations and universities. River Oak was looking into getting wireless beltpacks to add to their system and Justin decided that Clear-Com’s Arcadia was the right fit for the church. “Honestly, I feel like every church needs to know about Arcadia – it’s the absolute perfect fit for so ma
USA - One of the highlights of New York’s holiday season is the unveiling of the seasonal windows at the City’s Bloomingdale’s department store. Providing the sound for the opening show which marks the occasion and sees crowds thronging the streets on the corner of 59th Street and Lexington Avenue in midtown Manhattan, is Frost Productions. The service company’s association with Bloomingdale’s extends back to 2016, but this year the store upped the ante, featuring Billy Porter and a full five-piece band, spread across a 40ft stage set in front of four of the feature windows. Bloomingdale’s theme for its flagship store this year was Best Holiday Ever and Frost Productions’ team leader, Mike Alvarez, had no hesitation in specifying a Martin Audio MLA Mini in four hangs for the 20-minute show, knowing they could get the sound exactly where they wanted for th
USA - Production company Platinum XP has staked its success on the ICLive X from Renkus-Heinz. ICLive X, the intelligent evolution of the small-format line array, is fast becoming a sound solution of choice for production professionals. ICLive X (ICLX) is a complete system consisting of three combinable, steerable array modules and one matching subwoofer. Recently, Platinum XP deployed a system featuring 2 ICLXL digitally steerable loudspeakers and two ICLX-118S subwoofers for the Women’s Intersport Network (WIN) for KC Awards in Kansas City, Missouri, successfully covering more than one thousand guests in the 2,700sq.ft auditorium with clear, intelligible audio - all without having to fly speakers or adhere to strict sight lines. “We’re not like other rental production companies, and ICLive X is unlike any loudspeaker system you would typically look at for this
Vietnam - 1 Sound, a recently launched loudspeaker manufacturer, has announced the hiring of two sales representative Leonardo Dani and Leonardo D’Andrea dedicated to setting up a distribution network in EMEA for the United States-based brand. The company has appointed Sonos Libra Vietnam, Hanoi, to be the 1 Sound distributor in Vietnam. The showroom is fully equipped, showcasing 1 Sound’s Cannon Coaxial Series with installation subwoofers, like the MiniSUB5 and the discreet Floor Subwoofer, along with a Tower System. Mr. Cuong and the Sonos Libra team started organising demonstrations for their area's companies immediately and have expressed their excitement about the future of audio with 1 Sound’s loudspeaker technology. “The audio market in Vietnam is growing fast, leading to consumer demand for high quality and good origin products. Personally, I feel that
UK - Wharfedale Pro has announced the appointment of experienced audio expert, Jay Cresswell, to their UK team. Cresswell takes up the new role of applications and solutions specialist, with a focus on growing the brand through application expertise and product training. With over 20 years of experience in system design, support and audio project management, Jay Cresswell brings his expertise and real-world knowledge to the team. He will work alongside UK sales manager, Jeremy Adkins. “Customers need to know that we are here to support them, especially with the more advanced systems, such as the new WLA-1 Hybrid Curvature Array,” explains Cresswell. “It’s not about simply ‘selling the box’ - this new role is to help our customers get the best results for any project, big or small. I am really looking forward to working with our partners to help deliver the
Italy - Version 2.5 of Powersoft’s ArmoníaPlus software, which adds support for its new Mezzo A+ and Duecanali/Quattrocanali DSP+ amplifiers, is now available to download now from the Powersoft website. The new A+ models are the latest additions to the Mezzo range, which offers the same levels of reliability, build quality and acoustic proprieties of any Powersoft amplifier platform but in a half-size form factor. A+ models – comprising Mezzo 322 A+, Mezzo 304 A+, Mezzo 602 A+ and Mezzo 604 A+ – offer all the remote control and monitoring functions of the A versions, but further extend their networking capabilities with AES67. Duecanali DSP+ and Quattrocanali DSP+, meanwhile, are the recently released AES67-compatible versions of the popular fixed-install amplifier platforms. All AES67-compatible Powersoft amplifiers, which additionally includes the T Seri
UK - Sony Electronics’ DWX series wireless mics and transmitters is expanding with the introduction of a new digital wireless plug-on transmitter, the DWT-P30, which will replace the current DWT-P01N. Suitable for studio, electronic newsgathering (ENG) and location sound, the new transmitter complements Sony’s DWX series slot-in receiver and bodypack transmitters to create an all-inclusive digital wireless microphone system, for camcorder use including UniSlot and on location recording. New features include: 375kHz spacing high-density simultaneous multi-channel operation and wideband tuning at a maximum of 148MHz, high sound quality with CODEC MODE4, selectable RF outpower power (2mW/ 10mW / 25mW) and long battery life of approximately six hours.
Germany - LD Systems has introduced the new DAVE G4X Series. Exactly 10 years after the release of successful and long-running DAVE G3, the DAVE G4X ‘sets new standards in the field of active 2.1 PA systems for DJs, live groups, solo entertainers, or parties’. Available in four sizes and performance classes – from the compact DAVE 10 G4X to the DAVE 18 G4X, which features a powerful 18” subwoofer – the DAVE G4X Series offers a modern range of functions and a professional acoustic design for a variety of applications. LD Systems has extensively redeveloped the popular PA systems from the ground up. The models available are the DAVE 10 G4X (2 x double 4” satellites + 10” subwoofer, 680 W), the DAVE 12 G4X (2 x 6.5” satellites + 12” subwoofer, 1,460 W), the DAVE 15 G4X (2 x 8” satellites + 15” subwoofer, 2,060 W), and the DAVE 18 G4X (2 x 8” satellites +
Rock band Kasabian has enjoyed a 25-year career that includes a busy touring roster and seven studio albums. With guitarist Serge Pizzorno now full-time lead vocalist and new album The Alchemist’s Euphoria written and released, the band has embarked on a new chapter, underlined by a comprehensive European and UK arena tour. As it has before, Kasabian’s audio production is relying on DiGiCo, its next generation Quantum technology allowing the audio team to easily navigating the dynamics of Serge’s new role and take advantage of the advanced processing suite for automating monitor console duties and eliminating outboard. Supplied by Britannia Row, long-term DiGiCo users, FOH engineer, Rob Waite, and monitor engineer, Jamie Hickey, specified their consoles of choice; the compact Quantum 338 at FOH and a Quantum 5 for monitors, with two accompanying SD Racks.
USA - World Stage Lighting co-owners Dwight Wood and Devin Sunderland have been providing concert audiences in the Pacific Northwest with sonic experiences for decades. The company was given the opportunity to create a next-level experience for a recent performance by rock band Smash Mouth at Seven Feathers Casino Resort and provided a custom PA featuring the Anna and Otto ADAPTive system from Eastern Acoustic Works (EAW). Industry veterans and long-time users of EAW equipment, Wood and Sunderland were immediately impressed when the company introduced its new Anna ADAPTive PA system. “When we first heard Anna and saw what it could do for us and our client’s events, we were blown away,” says Sunderland. “The timing was right, so we seized the opportunity to purchase products from EAW’s ADAPTive line. It’s an amazing system.” The duo purchased 16 Anna three
UK - Robbie Williams’ 22/23 tour is in support of his latest album, XXV, which sees 25 years of hits re-worked and orchestrated by the Metropole Orkest. Brit Row were once again able to deliver consistent quality across equipment and crew for the British pop star. “Brit Row are absolutely fantastic,” FOH engineer Joe Harling, enthuses. “These are difficult times, but we’ve received everything we’ve asked for and a team of professional crew at the top of their game. I couldn’t be happier.” To cover the full spectrum of the show's journey through the last two and a half decades, Harling needed a versatile and robust console from Brit Row’s extensive inventory. “I’m using a DiGiCo Quantum 7 console, which is on an Optocore loop with the monitor console, also a Quantum 7, and all our stage infrastructure. With so much going on and with
USA - The 2022 Latin Grammys celebrated the best artists in Latin music on 17 November. Broadcast live from the Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas, the sound team trusted Shure Axient Digital to ensure music and Latin voices were the brightest stars of the night. The evening reunited the biggest Latin artists of 2022. Attendees and viewers enjoyed quality audio thanks to 32 channels of the Shure Axient Digital Wireless System and 48 channels of PSM 1000 in-ear monitoring system. Latin music fans cheered their idols in an exciting ceremony that elevated Rosalia and Jorge Drexler as the biggest winners. Both artists relied on Shure: Rosalia performed on a KSM9HS, while Jorge selected a tailored white KSM9 with an ADX2 handheld transmitter. The 23rd Latin Grammys started with a group performance as a tribute to Mexican singer and songwriter Marco Antonio Solís, who was a
Sweden - Borås Stadsteater took the opportunity whilst undergoing a building renovation to simultaneously break down barriers to the most effective audio presence for its audiences. The venue reinvested in a new loudspeaker system spatialised by a Dante-equipped TiMax SoundHub spatial audio engine complete with a TiMax Tracker performer stagetracking system. A flexible audio system was of paramount importance to the 500-capacity, municipality-run theatre. Though spoken dramatic productions are predominant, with classic productions and new writing having an equal footing, productions at the Stadsteater cater to the requirements of the public and range from modern circus to musicals, and ballet to pop concerts. Borås Stadsteater’s head of sound, Tobias Walka specified all elements of the audio installation including the TiMax SoundHub and TiMax Tracker. He explained,
Serbia - Chameleon Rental is well-known in Serbia thanks to the knowledge, dedication and rich experience its team has gained during over two decades of business. It is recognised as a company that continuously strives for technical innovation, one that pays particular attention to ensuring its inventory comprises a winning combination of high-quality manufacturing, reliability and functionality. Before the 2022 summer season started, Chameleon decided to improve its audio production capabilities by adding a new digital audio console, choosing a DiGiCo Quantum 225 as its latest acquisition. “We have used DiGICo consoles for many years and already have SD9s in our inventory,” says Chameleon’s Ivan Krsev. “They have served us very well, so adding the Quantum 225 was logical. We really like small format console of the console, the high-resolution touchscreen and i
New Zealand - Hamilton Workingmen’s Club boasts a membership over 7,000 and has an enviable range of facilities. As a community hub offering a wide range of activities, the Club is renowned for presenting high quality live entertainment at weekends, attracting a variety of original artists and top tribute bands. The Club’s substantial main room, which can accommodate around 250 guests, recently hosted New Zealand’s number one AC/DC tribute band, NZ/DC, for a gig that saw local audio rental specialists Liquid Sound supply an HH TNA line array sound system for the show. Launched earlier this year, the TNA line array was designed for a wide range of small to medium sized applications and is based around the TNA-2120SA, a multi-channel active subwoofer with integrated Class D amplifier which features two high power 12” low frequency woofers with exceptionally high
Portugal - The ever-popular Porto Drum Show recently relocated to the impressive Alfândega do Porto for its fourth edition. Having successfully supported the event previously, Martin Audio’s Portuguese distributor, Sons Do Marques were back in action, featuring a Wavefront Precision (WPS) PA for the main demonstration space. The event brings together a collection of world class drummers for one evening, including Dave Weckl (Chick Corea, Mike Stern, Dave Weckl Band), Gergő Borlai (Al di Meola, Frank Gambale, Bob Mintzer), Derrick Mackenzie (Jamiroquai), Miguel Lamas (Dany Martin, Carlos Rivera) and Mike Terrana (Axel Rudie Pell, Tony Macalpine, Ywngie Malmsteen). All featured in the drum clinic on the demo stage throughout the course of the evening. The show itself is split across three spaces of equal size: one for demonstrating drum brands, one for artist drummer
Spain - More than 100 Audio-Technica ATDM-0604a SmartMixers were recently installed in several faculties at the University of Malaga, as part of a major project to allow the delivery of remote teaching alongside classroom attendance. A large number of rooms were equipped with a total of 129 digital automatic mixers to ensure the University is able to engage in the “bimodal teaching” approach, and to meet contingency plans for situations where face-to-face activity is impossible in the future. Malaga-based AV integrator Geniux has an established reputation in the educational market and was responsible for the entire project, which saw 38 ATDM-0604a SmartMixers installed in the Faculty of Psychology, 19 in the Faculty of Medicine, 23 in the Faculty of Law, 11 in the Faculty of Architecture and 38 in the Social Studies and Commerce Complex (CESC). In addition to
Europe - German Pro Audio manufacturer DirectOut Technologies has announced Amptec as their new distributor for BeNeLux. The Belgian company will be offering the DirectOut product portfolio to the entire territory. With their diverse product portfolio and their team of highly skilled engineers, Amptec offers the opportunity to introduce DirectOut’s products to a new group of clients in a market where the brand of the manufacturer has been well-established for the last decade. DirectOut will be represented by Amptec’s Jasper Willems: “We’re looking forward to integrating DirectOut products into the solutions we provide in the broadcast, recording and live market. The fully modular design permits us to provide complete audio solutions, simplifying our installations tremendously.” Lorenzo Sassi, business development manager at DirectOut, adds: "Since ou
USA - Slipknot are known for some of the most intense live shows on some of the biggest stages on the planet. The Grammy Award-winning, and multi-platinum-selling group has spent much of the past two years on their ongoing Knotfest Roadshow, which recently wrapped up its third post-pandemic tour sweep of North America. Sound reinforcement provider Eighth Day Sound, a Clair Global company, has been supplying the tour legs with a robust K Series loudspeaker package from L-Acoustics. Wrangling the PA for the group are FOH engineer Bob Strakele and system engineer Brian Sankus, who have been deploying ever-evolving loudspeaker setups as the band has moved from sheds to arenas and then back to sheds. “At the beginning of 2022, we were going from amphitheatres into arenas, so on each side, we flew 14 K1 over four K2 for mains, 12 K1-SB subs, and 12 K2 for out-fills,” San
UK - Audio-Technica has announced the launch of its updated ATDM-0604a Digital SmartMixer, increasing the functionality and versatility of the original for fixed installation in conference rooms, education and commercial facilities. Incorporating upgrades based on feedback from end-users, the ATDM-0604a is now better suited for use in online conferences and large-scale environments. Key improvements include better echo and noise cancellation – now equivalent to Audio-Technica’s ATDM-1012 flagship SmartMixer model – and cascade connectivity (via Audio-Technica LINK) for up to eight mixers (if an ATDM-1012 is the first device) or up to six mixers (if connected with ATDM-0604a only), for larger installations. In addition, the ATDM-0604a allows for remote mute control of the ES954 hanging microphone array, via LINK connectivity with the ACP-W02S control panel, allowing up
Spain - Indie rock band Vetusta Morla has attracted a large and loyal following since it first emerged in 2008, so when the band members capped a whirlwind tour in support of its Latin Grammy-nominated Cable a Tierra album at Madrid’s Metropolitan Stadium, they were greeted by an enthusiastic crowd of 35,000 fans. The dynamic power and delicate subtlety of the music was carried throughout the jubilant crowd via a system of 240 Meyer Sound loudspeakers, including the new Panther large-format linear line arrays, provided by Fluge Audiovisuales of Madrid. “Meyer Sound has always provided us with unbeatable sound quality and uniform coverage,” says Iñigo Giménez, who designed and tuned the system for the concert and was audio crew chief for the tour. “All the different types of loudspeaker systems, including Panther, integrated perfectly.” A Meyer
