Founded more than two decades ago, the Parnelli Awards have evolved over the years, adding new categories to reflect changes in the industry. One notable (and popular) addition came in 2009, with the launch of the Indispensable Technology (IT) Awards for Audio, Lighting, Video and Staging/Effects. Of particular interest to FRONT of HOUSE readers, of course, are those focused on enhancing the success of sound reinforcement applications.
Here are the six finalists vying for this year’s Audio IT Award. The winning product will be revealed at the Parnelli Awards, set for Friday evening, April 14, during the NAMM Show in Anaheim. See you there!
Allen & Heath, Avantis Console, V1.2
This free v1.2 firmware upgrade for the popular Avantis digital console adds a built-in, next-gen RTA; Sennheiser wireless mic control integration from the console surface; expanded dPack DEEP DSP, now with Bus (modeled on the legendary SSL bus compressor) and more, including RTA views being visible on iPad and Director, for tweaking from anywhere in the venue.
Avid, VENUE S6L Console, V7.1
VENUE 7.1 software enables compatibility between VENUE|S6L consoles and Waves’ V14 plug-ins when used with Waves SoundGrid Rack, offering low-latency integration and workflow enhancements. Users can access Waves plug-ins directly from the console control surface without requiring an additional host computer, and they can store all Waves parameters within the S6L’s 1,000 available snapshots.
DPA 4055 Kick Drum Microphone
The 4055 is a condenser mic optimized for capturing kick drums and other low-frequency sources. Unlike most other kick mics, the 4055 has a neutral, overall flat response, allowing the user to EQ (or not EQ) the mic to taste. The capsule is shock isolated within the housing, while its rugged headcase with internal foam windscreen helps dampen air turbulence created by drumhead movement.
PK Sound, Trinity Black Line Array
The next-gen of PK’s robotically controlled line arrays, Trinity Black allows system operators to remotely vary the coverage in vertical (0-5.5°) and horizontal (50°-120°) planes after the array is flown. Analog or AES inputs feed 6,000 watts of onboard amplification to dual 12” woofers and a CMI waveguide with four 6.5” cone mids and two 4” planar wave HF drivers. DSP includes FIR and IIR filters.
Shure, KSM11 Wireless Mic Capsule
The KSM11 wireless condenser mic capsule has a large ¾” gold-sputtered capsule providing clear highs, rich mids and full lows, with a highly consistent, deep cardioid polar pattern that reduces off-axis phase distortion. The KSM11 is designed for use with all Shure wireless systems with interchangeable mic capsules, including Axient Digital, ULX-D and more. It’s available in black or brushed nickel.
Solid State Logic, SSL Live L650 Console
The L650 is the most powerful SSL Live console to date with 288 (240 full, 48 dry) inputs in a 36-fader package offering multiple mixes, immersive audio and OTT/Streaming. Live V5.0 software adds integrated control of Meyer Spacemap Go Immersive and Shure ULX-D/Axient Digital wireless, from the SSL Live console ecosystem and scalable “Plus Processing Packs” DSP.
