The Hålogaland Theatre in Tromsø, Norway, is putting its new DPA d:fine™ Headset Microphones through their paces on a production of Les Misérables, which opened on September 6th 2012.

The theatre has replaced its old stock of DPA 4060 omnidirectional miniature microphones with 40 directional d:fine Headset Microphones and 40 d:fine omni microphone booms, which are being used with a new 32 channel Shure Axient wireless system. The microphones were supplied by sound company Lydproduksjon Tromsø AS, in conjunction with DPA’s Norwegian distributor Lydsystemer.

Jim Oddvar Hansen, Head of Sound at the theatre, says: “The new d:fine Headset Microphones replace a selection of DPA 4060 miniature microphones that we had had for some time. As our previous experience with DPA technology had always been good, it made sense to upgrade using the same manufacturer’s products.�

Jim Oddvar Hansen adds that the d:fine headset microphones were chosen because they offer the latest technology and are also very comfortable for performers to wear.

“The microphones stay in place even with theatre productions like Les Misérables that include dancing and running about the stage while singing. This was a major consideration when it came down to our choice of headworn microphones – we needed something that not only offered exceptional sound quality but was also durable and practical. The DPA d:fine fits all these criteria.�

The HÃ¥logaland Theatre, the regional theatre for Troms and Finnmark, has also invested in 40 DPA omni microphone booms, which are less sensitive to handling noise and to wind, blows and pops.

“We felt that omni microphones would give us the best sound quality for musical productions,� Jim Oddvar Hansen adds. “Also, having both long and short booms provide maximum flexibility and makes it possible to use the microphones on children, or to hide them underneath costumes.�

The Hålogaland Theatre’s production of Les Misérables stars some of Norway’s most talented artists and will run until 28th of November 2012.

-ends-

Editors’ information:
DPA Microphones is the leading Danish Professional Audio manufacturer of high quality condenser microphones and microphone solutions for professional applications in studio, broadcast, theatre, video/film and sound reinforcement environments. All DPA microphones and components are manufactured at the company’s purpose-built factory in Denmark.
For more information on DPA Microphones, please visit www.dpamicrophones.com

As the Torch Relays made their way around the UK this summer, DPA microphones were at the heart of the festivities, providing loud and clear audio at a total of 70 evening celebrations and the daily lighting of the cauldron ceremonies.

Among the items on the extensive sound, lighting and power equipment list for the Torch Relays were DPA d:fine™ Headset Microphones, supplied by DPA’s UK distributor Sound Network. These were used at every one of the 70 locations to mic a wide range of dancers, actors, presenters and TV presenters.

“We chose DPA d:fine Headset Microphones for their discreet profile and sensitive capsules,� says sound engineer Doug Maddison, who was responsible for the on-stage sound at the evening gigs. “We specified the cardioid version to try and reduce spill and feedback from the monitors and the PA. This was important as the presenters were often standing in front of the PA to address the audience.�

Among the artists who took part in the evening celebrations were Dizzee Rascal, Labrinth, Eliza Doolittle, Friendly Fires, The Wanted, You Me At Six, Mark Ronson, Katy B, Emeli Sandé, Wretch 32 and dance troupe Twist And Pulse. A number of presenters were also involved in each leg of the relay, including former ‘Blue Peter’ presenter Andy Akinwolere.

“When I heard I was doing 70 gigs in a row on monitors with multiple headset microphones, I did wonder if I was going to go mad, but thanks to DPA I was very pleasantly surprised,� Maddison adds. “The d:fine’s performed really well and required very little EQ-ing. Normally, if I am using headset microphones, I would anticipate having to do some very careful EQ-ing to achieve either a quiet but full sound or a loud but very modified sound with lots of missing frequencies. However, on the first day of using the d:fines, I found that it was possible to use the same output wedge EQ that I used for a band with dynamic microphones, without having to do much EQ-ing on the d:fine input. The result was impressively loud and clear.�

Doug Maddison says his experience of fitting the d:fine Headset Microphones to artists, performers and presenters was also very positive.

“They were very comfortable for the performers and incredibly easy to fit – to the extent that some artists could actually mic themselves up. Even the dancers doing breakdancing and acrobatics had no trouble keeping the d:fine’s in place.�

Over 1.5 million people saw the Torch Relay evening celebrations, some of which took place in seriously adverse weather conditions.

“We were outside for 70 days and for about 36 of those it rained non-stop,� Maddison adds. “The d:fines were used every day and regularly got soaked. As one would expect this occasionally had an impact on high frequencies, but once we’d dried the microphones out in a box of silica gel their performance quickly returned to normal.�

One thing Maddison did discover is that, compared to previous microphones he has used, the cardioid version of the DPA d:fine proved very effective in high winds.

“Overall we were really delighted with their performance,� he says. “They looked great, they sounded great and all I can say is thank you, DPA, for making it all so easy.�

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Editors’ information:
DPA Microphones is the leading Danish Professional Audio manufacturer of high quality condenser microphones and microphone solutions for professional applications in studio, broadcast, theatre, video/film and sound reinforcement environments. All DPA microphones and components are manufactured at the company’s purpose-built factory in Denmark.
For more information on DPA Microphones, please visit www.dpamicrophones.com

Powerful, portable speaker system with legendary Cerwin-Vega! Bass

Cerwin-Vega!® introduces its new P-Series professional PA system, which delivers a new standard in power and bass punch, suited for any sound reinforcement application, from live performances to public speeches. The P-Series family includes two active speaker products: the P1500X and the P1800SX.

Cerwin-Vega! P-Series

An intuitive user interface with new predefined and parametric filters simplifies complex system calibration with the PMAs.

Huntington Beach, CA – September 25, 2012 – Pro Audio Technology (PRO), leader in professional-grade loudspeaker and digital amplifier technology, today announced enhancements to its Programmable Modular Amplifier (PMA) multichannel amplifier/processors. A complete family of new DSP filters for system acoustic optimization is now available via the PMA Control Panelâ„¢ interface – an enhancement to PRO’s PMA Managerâ„¢ amplifier control software.

Using PMA Manager Software, an installer can configure PMA amp/processors for all PRO loudspeaker systems via a single mouse-click by simply selecting the loudspeaker model from a list. The user is then able to optimize performance of the system in-situ via easy-to-use drop down menus of predefined filter selections identified using plain English – no knowledge of engineering terminology or advanced acoustical principles is required. These features greatly simplify the system setup process and reduce system calibration time.

Up to four predefined acoustic filters are available, per channel.

Examples of the predefined filters include:

• Perforated projection screen high-frequency compensation, selectable by screen brand and model
• Acoustic fabric high frequency compensation
• Acoustic boundary loading compensation
• Bass response contouring to fine-tune boundary compensation
• Treble response contouring to fine tune screen and fabric compensation
• High and low pass filters for deployment of distributed audio subwoofer/satellite systems

In lieu of the predefined filters, advanced installers can make use of up to eight customizable parametric filters – per channel – plus delay and gain adjustments to fine tune low-frequency in-room audio performance. Designed for subwoofer optimization, all the tools required to tame room-related standing wave modes are available right in the amplifier and are implemented via PMA Manager Software.

In addition to the full-set of customizable and predefined filters, PMA Manager features a built-in pink noise signal to aid in diagnosis of system wiring and design issues, and provides signal routing within the PMA amplifier making the deployment of complex, multi-way, multi-speaker installations simple and efficient.

“Installers don’t want to deploy stand-alone, multi-channel audio processors that add noise and use hard-to-understand terminology to get the best performance from their client’s systems,� said Paul Hales, Pro Audio Technology founder. “They are expensive, and needlessly complicate system wiring schemes. Our PMA amplifier/processors allow full optimization of audio systems right inside the amplifiers themselves. And best of all, PMA Manager™ with PMA Control Panel™, makes the process point-and-click easy.�

Pro Audio Technology’s Programmable Modular Amplifier is a 2U, four-channel design employing installer-programmable DSP with system calibration capabilities. PMA amplifier/processors are available in multiple configurations of 200, 450, or 1000 watts per channel. With high resolution DSP filtering, and proprietary PMA Manager Software, PMA amplifier/processors provide an intelligent, easy way to carry out complicated calibrations with minimal added cost and effort.

For more information about Pro Audio Technology products, visit www.proaudiotechnology.com

About Pro Audio Technology
Through thoughtful combination of consumer and professional engineering technologies, Pro Audio Technology designs and manufactures a complete range of high-power loudspeakers and DSP-programmable amplifiers for high-end residential installations. PRO products unite lively dynamics, high maximum output level, and rugged durability with the refined acoustic performance you’ve come to expect from contemporary home audio equipment. The sound system of choice for discerning music and home theater enthusiasts, Pro Audio Technology products are available globally through an elite group of high-end residential custom installers. Pro Audio Technology is the brand name of Professional Home Cinema, LLC.

To mark her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee, the English National Ballet recently completed a series of 14 sell-out performances at the new 500-seat Theatre at The Concourse Performing Arts Centre in Sydney, Australia.

To achieve a natural effect where the music did not sound over amplified, the venue’s sound designer and production engineer, Owen Ironside, chose a selection of DPA microphones to capture the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra’s performance.

“The Theatre is a very intimate space and my goal was to make the mix as transparent as possible and merely bring the orchestra image out of the pit, sonically speaking, without it sounding like the PA was even on,� Ironside explains. “In total there were 29 musicians situated in the open pit, beneath the stage. To achieve the results I wanted I opted to mic each section with DPA microphones, with the addition of a solo DPA mic on 1st violin, as opposed to a traditional Decca Tree approach.�

On Ironside’s recommendation, the Concourse Arts Centre invested in 12 DPA 2011C Twin Diaphragm directional microphones, which were supplied by DPA’s Australian distributor Amber Technologies.

“I used directional microphones because the orchestra was situated directly under the PA,� Ironside says. “To mic the venue’s Steinway piano I used the directional DPA d:vote™ 4099P instrument microphone set mounted inside the piano with magnet holders, making it almost invisible. This was a last minute addition chosen for aesthetic reasons when the director decided to move the piano on and off stage during the performance. I also used DPA Reference Standard 4015A wide cardioid microphones for harp and timpani in order to minimise proximity effect. The harp sounded quite boomy before amplification so I certainly didn’t want to accentuate this. The wide cardioids’ wide pickup pattern also suited the harp and timpani’s wide radiation, while for the single double bass I used a d:vote 4099B instrument microphone. This allowed me to close mic and gave me maximum control within the mix.�

The combination of Owen Ironside’s attention to detail and the superb audio quality of the DPA microphones won much praise from the audience, performers, musicians and venue staff.

Gavin Sutherland, Music Director and Conductor for English National Ballet, says: “I was extremely impressed with the sound engineering for the Willoughby Symphony pit orchestra in the Theatre at The Concourse. The sound emanating from this moderately sized pit of 29 players, out front (in the auditorium) has a fulsomeness, richness and clarity worthy of some of the larger pit orchestras in Europe. A great natural sounding result was achieved.�

Following the success of the English National Ballet performance, the Concourse Arts Centre has increased its stock of DPA microphones by investing in 10 d:fine headset microphones, which it is using for musical theatre productions, and is also considering investing in different capsules for its Reference Series microphones to use during recording in its Concert Hall.

-ends-

Editors’ information:
DPA Microphones is the leading Danish Professional Audio manufacturer of high quality condenser microphones and microphone solutions for professional applications in studio, broadcast, theatre, video/film and sound reinforcement environments. All DPA microphones and components are manufactured at the company’s purpose-built factory in Denmark.
For more information on DPA Microphones, please visit www.dpamicrophones.com

Akron, Ohio, September 2012… Akron, Ohio has a long and storied history as the heart of the US tire business. In April of 2012 the city celebrated that proud heritage with the grand opening of Bridgestone Americas’ 260,000-square-foot worldwide technical center. The USD $100m research and development facility was designed by architects Harris/Day to exceed Gold LEED standards, and it shows. The building features wide, open spaces, a “living roof” with gardens and lounge areas, and plenty of natural light thanks to an abundance of glass throughout.

The showcase structure’s east and west wings intersect at a massive three-story atrium area that serves as building’s social nexus. The common space is outfitted with a large video wall, and serves as the hub of the technical center’s communications with the outside world, and with the company’s headquarters in Tennessee.

Of course, three stories of glass, while visually stunning, tends to create a less than optimal acoustical setting. As Gary Matthews of Middleburg Heights, OH-based Audio Video Interiors explains, even with a fair amount of acoustical treatment, the environment was a challenging one.

“It’s a big, open, reverberant space,” he says. “They did a great job in treating the back wall, which helps a lot, but it’s still a large, glassed-in space, with a high level of ambient noise, and intelligibility inevitably suffers.”

The architect’s vision included a desire for low-profile audio and video components, but the design was at odds with that goal. “Their original proposal was for 34 individual loudspeakers hung on walls and on ceilings throughout the area,” says Matthews. “They came to us and asked if there was anything they could do differently, because they didn’t want to see so many speakers.”

AVI’s  recommendation was for three Renkus-Heinz Iconyx steered steered arrays to cover the entire area. “So we got it down from 34 speakers, to three Iconyx ICX7 units built into the video wall, with zero visibility. And the sound coverage is far superior, with no distribution issues and no dead spots.”

With an Ashly Pêma 8×8 amplifier and signal processor already in place, AVI opted for the ICX7 passive system instead of the powered version. “We built pockets for them in the walls, and you can’t even see that they’re there,” says Matthews. A Listen Technologies assistive listening system and a pair of Shure SLX wireless mic systems completes the audio system.

“The Iconyx system was perfect for aiming the sound only at the areas we wanted to cover, and away from the walls and windows,” Matthews concludes.

###

Headquartered in Foothill Ranch, California, Renkus-Heinz, Inc. is the worldwide leader in the design and manufacture of audio operations networks, digitally steerable arrays, powered and non-powered loudspeakers, system specific electronics and fully integrated Reference Point Array systems.

New Switch Offers Centralized Control Over Audio Ports, Reduces Risk of Audio Signal Interception

VNM91912 – Playa Vista, CA –  Belkin Enterprise, a trusted leader of complete computing solutions for office, IT infrastructure and mobile environments, today announced the release of its Secure Audio and Microphone Four-Port Switch. The Secure Audio and Microphone Switch offers users centralized control over audio ports, and is designed to reduce the possibility of analog cross-talk of audio signals between computers running at different security levels.

Belkin’s Secure Audio and Microphone Switch is designed for government and other environments requiring the use of secure Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) communications. Supporting both stereo audio and microphone analog signals, the switch allows users to securely share headsets, speakers and microphones between computers or IP phones.

Belkin’s Secure Audio and Microphone Switch features dedicated printed circuit boards for the audio and microphone signals. Keeping the audio signals physically separated from the microphone signals eliminates the possibility of leakage between signals on either side.

Unlike solid-state audio multiplexers, the Secure Audio and Microphone Switch relies on high-quality mechanical relays and does not have a memory buffer or the ability to store data. This prevents signals from being exploited or manipulated by malicious software as users switch between computers, ensuring the integrity of the signal.

Additionally, Belkin’s Secure Audio and Microphone Switch incorporates a hardware microphone mute button to shut off the microphone when the switch is not in use or while handling calls where the microphone is not required. The mute button cannot be manipulated by software or driver, allowing for increased security.

“Agencies are increasingly replacing their aging and expensive, circuit-switched phone systems with communication solutions that run over IP networks to comply with recent light technology mandates and reduce operational costs,� said Luiz Artiz, director of product management at Belkin. “Our Secure Audio and Microphone Switch works in conjunction with our Secure KVM (Keyboard Video Monitor) switch and relieves the fear of possible information leak while switching between networks of varying security levels.�

Other security features of Belkin’s Secure Audio and Microphone Switch include:

• Non-Reprogrammable Firmware – Custom firmware is not reprogrammable, preventing the ability to tamper with the switch logic.
• Metal-Plate Firewall - Placed between the audio and microphone printed circuit boards, the metal-plate firewall reduces the potential of electromagnetic interference leakage.
• Tamper-Evident Tape - A holographic security label placed on the enclosure provides a visual indication if the switch has been opened or compromised.
• Port Coloring - Included color chips can be inserted into each port-selector button facilitating port identification and reducing user error.
• Secure Packaging - “Tear awayâ€� packaging ensures secure delivery of the switch as it is routed to the end user.

Belkin’s Secure Audio and Microphone Four-Port Switch is now available through the company’s network of authorized channel partners.

Today Belkin also introduced its new smart card reader specifically designed for demanding government applications. For more information, visit Belkin News.

Belkin delivers the necessary components for workstation security, as well as every essential accessory and peripheral device to provide a complete, efficient, productive workstation that meets the demands of government use. For more information visit:  Belkin Government.

About Belkin Enterprise

Belkin Enterprise, a division of Belkin International, offers commercial computing solutions for office, IT infrastructure, and mobile environments. A proven technology leader for more than 25 years, organizations worldwide trust Belkin for its unwavering commitment to product quality, and expertise in creating solutions designed to address customer requirements in business, government and education. With a global supply chain and broad provider network, Belkin commands a purchasing power that delivers greater value and unparalleled execution advantages to customers. The company’s line of commercial products are available through Belkin’s global network of distributors and resellers. Headquartered in Playa Vista, California, the company is represented in more than 25 countries and can be found on the Web at http://www.Belkin.com.

# # #

Contact:

Denise Nelson

The Ventana Group

925 837 6277 office

925 858 5198 mobile

denise.nelson@ventanapr.com

KanexPro the leading A/V Connectivity solutions provider is proud to introduce the Mini Audio Amplifier is a quarter-rack width digital amplifier (Class D) with equalizer control and Mic mixer. It’s a simple yet powerful device delivering 2×20 Watts@4Ohm default output with built-in volume/ bass feature. It also supports dual mono-output with 2 stereo audio selectable inputs. The Microphone mixer includes independent volume control with balance switching. Supports balanced/ unbalanced signals.

This Mini Audio Amplifier is mainly used during lectures, house of worship centers and various musical events where mic mixing together with equalizing audio is critical.

Features:

• Fast switching audio amplifier
• 2×20 Watt@4Ohm as the default amplifier output
• Bridge connection supported by switching the amplifier to be 1x40Watt@8Ohm
• Supports Dual-mono output
• Built-in Microphone mixer (separately controllable)
• Line audio output, with volume controllable.
• MIC input supports 48V phantom power
• MIC port with balanced switching suppress
• Supports balanced/ unbalanced signals
• Supports Ducking power technology
• Ultra low inrush current
• Two stereo audio inputs, switchable by button, remote or RS232.
• Volume/Bass/Treble controllable by buttons or RS232
• Optional control by IR remote
• Convection cooled, antistatic case design
• LED indicator, for power and operating status
• IR remote (optional) not included
• Internal Universal power adaptable (100-240 volt AC, 50/60Hz)

About KanexProâ„¢

Leveraging our core strength in professional A/V products, KanexPro carries a complete selection of A/V connectivity needs. When planning digital installations you will find that we carry a broad line of A/V connectivity products enabling you to broadcast, extend, split, or multiply HD signal transmissions; simply and cost-effectively.

KanexPro is a registered trademark. All other trademarks and registered trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners.

Akron, Ohio, September 2012… Akron, Ohio has a long and storied history as the heart of the US tire business. In April of 2012 the city celebrated that proud heritage with the grand opening of Bridgestone Americas’ 260,000-square-foot worldwide technical center. The USD $100m research and development facility was designed by architects Harris/Day to exceed Gold LEED standards, and it shows. The building features wide, open spaces, a “living roof” with gardens and lounge areas, and plenty of natural light thanks to an abundance of glass throughout.

The showcase structure’s east and west wings intersect at a massive three-story atrium area that serves as building’s social nexus. The common space is outfitted with a large video wall, and serves as the hub of the technical center’s communications with the outside world, and with the company’s headquarters in Tennessee.

Of course, three stories of glass, while visually stunning, tends to create a less than optimal acoustical setting. As Gary Matthews of Middleburg Heights, OH-based Audio Video Interiors explains, even with a fair amount of acoustical treatment, the environment was a challenging one.

“It’s a big, open, reverberant space,” he says. “They did a great job in treating the back wall, which helps a lot, but it’s still a large, glassed-in space, with a high level of ambient noise, and intelligibility inevitably suffers.”

The architect’s vision included a desire for low-profile audio and video components, but the design was at odds with that goal. “Their original proposal was for 34 individual loudspeakers hung on walls and on ceilings throughout the area,” says Matthews. “They came to us and asked if there was anything they could do differently, because they didn’t want to see so many speakers.”

AVI’s  recommendation was for three Renkus-Heinz Iconyx steered steered arrays to cover the entire area. “So we got it down from 34 speakers, to three Iconyx ICX7 units built into the video wall, with zero visibility. And the sound coverage is far superior, with no distribution issues and no dead spots.”

With an Ashly Pêma 8×8 amplifier and signal processor already in place, AVI opted for the ICX7 passive system instead of the powered version. “We built pockets for them in the walls, and you can’t even see that they’re there,” says Matthews. A Listen Technologies assistive listening system and a pair of Shure SLX wireless mic systems completes the audio system.

“The Iconyx system was perfect for aiming the sound only at the areas we wanted to cover, and away from the walls and windows,” Matthews concludes.

###

Headquartered in Foothill Ranch, California, Renkus-Heinz, Inc. is the worldwide leader in the design and manufacture of audio operations networks, digitally steerable arrays, powered and non-powered loudspeakers, system specific electronics and fully integrated Reference Point Array systems.

London, UK, September 2012….  Community continued the successful track record of its high power R-Series loudspeakers with around 230 systems installed at multiple venues for the London 2012 Olympics, including the Handball Arena, Basketball Arena, Water Polo Centre, Aquatic Centre, Outdoor Water Sports Centre and the Main Olympic Stadium.

Designed for high intelligibility speech and music coverage of large audience areas, the all-weather     R-Series is a first choice for every type of track and arena, including motor sports from F1 and NASCAR to world-class stadia across every continent, and many previous summer and winter Olympic games. The 22 models in the R-Series range provide a comprehensive choice of throw distances and coverage patterns and are used outdoors, from theme parks like Disneyland to the flood warning system of the city of Venice, and indoors at large convention centers and airports.

The five models deployed at the London 2012 Olympic venues were the R2, R1, R.5, R.5COAX and R.25, configured with a variety of dispersion patterns to provide the coverage each location required. The long-throw R2 is a powerful three-way system, comprising dual 12-inch LF drivers, 2-inch M200 midrange drivers and a high compression 1-inch HF. The medium/long throw R1 is a two-way system, comprising a 12-inch driver and high compression 1-inch HF. The R.5, R.5COAX and R.25 are compact systems, the R.5 and R.5COAX being two-way 12-inch units and the R.25 a two-way 8-inch system.

###

Community Professional Loudspeakers is a manufacturer and supplier of professional audio equipment.  Since 1968, Community has led the pro-audio industry with technological innovations which have become industry standards. Today, Community offers over 150 professional loudspeaker products, including installed loudspeaker systems, weather-resistant outdoor loudspeaker systems, ceiling loudspeakers, high level voice paging systems, and portable entertainment systems.  Visit www.communitypro.com for more information.