Perhaps it was this year’s return to the Las Vegas location or perhaps a burst of election year optimism, but the 2016 InfoComm expo was an absolute success on every level. One clear indicator was the record-setting 1,000 exhibitors — including 211 new exhibitors — that filled some 527,105 net square feet of exhibit and special events space the at Las Vegas Convention Center from June 8 to 10.
InfoComm 2016 welcomed more than 38,833 visitors, affirming its continued strength as the best-attended annual conference and exhibition for AV buyers and sellers in the western hemisphere. On the education side, attendees registered for more than 12,000 seats at InfoComm University sessions throughout the week, more than double the number engaged in training and education in 2015.
Evidently, this enthusiasm shows no signs of waning, as 91 percent of the expo space for next year’s event has already been booked, demonstrating a strong commitment to the show among exhibitors.
“This is a thriving, growing, busy industry — especially this time of year,” said InfoComm International executive director and CEO, David Labuskes. “The fact that so many professionals continue to gather in one place, including new faces and dedicated InfoComm attendees, underscores the important role that the show plays in the success of their businesses and their careers.”
But for us, a major highlight of any show is checking out new products and technologies — and in this regard, InfoComm 2016 did not disappoint. Here are some recent debuts that caught our attention.
Speakers: Big and Small
Probably the most excitement at InfoComm’s audio section involved new speaker designs — powered and unpowered for portable, touring and installation applications. Of intense interest was the growing category of mid-sized line arrays (those having dual 8- or 10-inch woofers) and we present more than three dozen such models in our Buyers Guide on page 32.
Adamson (adamsonsystems.com) highlighted its flagship E-Series and the new E-119 subwoofer that combines a lightweight, long-excursion, 19-inch SD19 Kevlar neodymium driver with an ultra-efficient front-loaded enclosure. Integrated rigging allows for either 0° or 3° splay between adjacent cabinets.
Bose Professional (pro.bose.com) is shipping the F1 Model 812 Passive Flexible Array loudspeaker. This new passive speaker (and a powered model from 2015) offers the ability to configure the array into four unique shapes to target listening areas. The passive F1 loudspeaker is targeted for permanent installs in small to medium venues. It combines an array of eight proprietary 2.25-inch drivers, 100-degree horizontal waveguides and a high-powered 12-inch woofer.
Clair Brothers’ (clairbrothers.com) One Series monitors follow in the footsteps of the legendary 12AM stage monitor. The new, single12-inch 1AM monitor is a coaxial design. It can also double as a multipurpose speaker, with its integral pole mount and rigging points) and a powered 1AM+ version is also offered. The new 1.5AM is similar, but with a coaxial 15-inch driver. Also new are the compact 8CX and the 5CX coaxials, designed for diverse applications.
D.A.S. Audio (dasaudio.com) pumped up its Sound Force Series with the SF-Monitor powered DJ monitor. The SF-Monitor comprises two parts, the SF-20A mid-high unit and the SF-1521, a two-way LF system. The SF-20A can also be used individually to provide additional reach into areas not covered by the main Sound Force system. Midrange is via the optimized 12AN4 neodymium speaker. HF response is via a compression driver/aluminum waveguide assembly.
d&b audiotechnik (dbaudio.com) debuted the new B22-SUB, which improves on its classic B2 model, with two 18-inch neodymium woofers in an efficient bandpass horn design producing high SPLs. Intended for ground stacked applications, it can also be used in a cardioid mode when combined in multiples of three d&b subwoofers. Also new (and designed for d&b amplifiers) is the DS10 Audio network bridge, which provides 16 AES3 outputs via Dante, four AES3 inputs and an integrated five-port network switch. With the DS10, multiple channels are sent from the console to the amps via a single network cable. At the amplifiers, the DS10 distributes the audio signals to the AES3 inputs within the d&b amplifiers. The DS10 also sends metadata (such as Dante channel labels and cabling info) via the AES3 channel stream for simplified routing and troubleshooting.
Eastern Acoustic Works (eaw.com) previewed its new RADIUS series of intelligent point source, line source, stage monitor and subwoofer speakers for portable and permanent installs. RADIUS brings EAW’s technologies like EAW Focusing and DynO to a new powered and processed platform that integrates Dante networking and iOS-based EAWmosaicTM prediction, control and monitoring with features to streamline setups in minimal time. The complete range consists of 8- and 12-inch 2-way point source speakers (available in two horn patterns), a double 8-inch articulated line array, single 12 and 18 subs – and an upcoming 12-in coaxial stage monitor.
E-V (electrovoice.com) launched X1-212/120 and high-performance X2-212/120 — both 120-degree versions of its existing 90-degree models, expanding the flexibility of the new X-Line Advance family. Both are two-way vertical line-array loudspeaker elements. All are unpowered and can operate in either passive or bi-amplified mode.
FBT (fbt.it) is now shipping its VERTUS CS-1000, a compact, powered vertical line array system with a 12-inch subwoofer/base and a pole mounted satellite with six full range 3-inch neodymium drivers. An onboard Class-D, amplifier delivers 600W RMS to the subwoofer and 400W RMS to the satellite, both of which are housed in birch plywood enclosures and a convenient storage compartment within the subwoofer enclosure can house both the satellite speaker and supplied mounting pole for storage/transport.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
Fulcrum Acoustic (fulcrum-acoustic.com) showed its FLS115 subcardioid subwoofer, which incorporates Passive Cardioid Technology to dramatically reduce excessive rear LF radiation without the need for additional drivers, amplifiers or signal processing. Like the companion FL283 sub, the FLS115’s enclosure and rigging are designed to accommodate up to 20 degrees of splay between adjacent cabinets, providing for sharply curved arrays
JBL Professional (jblpro.com) launched the new flagship in its line of adjustable coverage passive column arrays, the CBT1000 series, an extension of its popular CBT (Constant Beamwidth Technology) line. The CBT1000 features a total of 16 vertical pattern selections for aligning the coverage to the geometry of a room.
K-array (k-array.com) was glittering with excitement about its new offering of product finishes. Effective immediately, a 24K gold-plated stainless steel option is available for the loudspeakers in its Installed Sound line including the KZ12 Lyzard, KV50 Vyper, KK52 half-meter Kobra, KK102 Kobra, KP52 half-meter Python, KP102 Python, and KY102 Kayman as well as the KU44 and KU210 subwoofers. The newest finish is a pure 24k gold coating over a sturdy steel frame that is resistant to corrosion, rust or stain, rendering it ideal for upscale applications requiring a bit of bling. Standard colors are sleek black and an elegant white; brushed or polished stainless steel finishes are also offered.
L-Acoustics (l-acoustics.com) launched Kiva II, an ultra-compact modular line source that adds 6 dB of max SPL versus its predecessor, maximized amplifier density with 16-ohm impedance, and a new rugged enclosure material. Despite its compact format, Kiva II features Wavefront Sculpture Technology™ for long-throw capability and symmetric horizontal coverage of 100 degrees. Weight is just 31 pounds and it is expected to ship in late 2016.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
Martin Audio (martin-audio.com) had a hit last year with the debut of its high-performance compact CCD line of coaxial installation speakers, and then followed it up with powered versions for portable applications. New now is CDD-WR speakers and CSX-WR subwoofers, weather resistant models designed for outdoor operation. All feature an IP54 rating, with weatherized water resistant grilles, while the subs have an IP24 rating.
Meyer Sound (meyersound.com) takes its Galileo speaker management platform to the next generation with Galaxy, which is fully networkable, with multiple units sharing 24-bit/96 kHz multi-channel audio via an AVB network. Other features include a delay matrix, easier integration with Crestron and other third-party controllers, a word clock input on the AES3 version, and improved equalization tools. The first versions will ship this September.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
NEXO’s (yamahaca.com) ID24 is a low-profile/high-output speaker for theaters, auditoriums and fixed installs. The full-range ID24 has twin 4-inch drivers in a “V” formation combined with an HF compression driver on a rotatable horn; currently four horn patterns are available. Single-10 and dual-10 low-profile subs are optional.
Next Pro Audio (next-proaudio.com) announced its LA212Xv2, a 3-way, horn-loaded line array with dual 12-inch woofers, a 10-inch cone mid and two 1.4-inch exit HF drivers on a wave shaping horn that generates a flat, isophasic wavefront. A variety of subwoofer options are offered.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
Peavey Electronics (peavey.com) is now shipping its long-awaited RBN 112, a powered (1,500-watt), 2-way, full-range system with Peavey’s proprietary 120mm true ribbon HF driver on a low-coloration waveguide and onboard DSP. LF is handled by a 12-inch, neodymium Scorpion woofer. Features include a $1,499 MSRP, program EQ presets, multiple side and top fly points, and an ultra-braced molded enclosure. An optional dual-15 RBN 215 powered sub rounds out the package.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
PK Sound (pksound.ca) was showing two new subwoofers — a 30-inch model using Powersoft’s M-Force technology and the other, a more conventional dual-18 design, but equipped with Powersoft IPAL optimization. But the big news was the official release of its Kontrol™ loudspeaker management platform for the company’s innovative Trinity line array, which offers remote servo control over horizontal and vertical directivity along with full DSP implementation.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
PreSonus (presonus.com) unveiled a new line of AIR active loudspeakers, with 2-way 10/12/15-inch models and options for 15- or 18-inch subwoofers. All are powered via internal amplification and onboard DSP. The company is also now shipping its WorxAudio-designed line of ULT-series active loudspeakers.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
Proel (proel.com) launched its new two-way AX800A compact line array from its Axiom brand, featuring two 8-inch woofers and a 1.4-inch HF driver in a lightweight molded polypropylene enclosure. It has a 85 Hz to 16.8k Hz bandwidth over 110° of horizontal dispersion and is designed to partner with the matching dual 18-inch powered manifold bandpass SW1800A subwoofer.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
RCF’s (rct.it) NX L44-A true two-way line source is now shipping. Features include three 10-inch neodymium woofers and a 1.4-inch exit HF driver on an asymmetrical waveguide with onboard DSP. Powering is via 1,400 watts of internal Class-D amplification. RCF was also showing its TTL6-A active (2,200-watt) three-way vertical line array module, with two 12-inch woofers, four 6.5-inch cone mids and a compression driver on a 90-degree waveguide. Onboard DSP and RDNet remote control are standard.
VUE Audiotechnik’s (vueaudio.com) al-12 line array has two 12-inch neodymium woofers, six 4-inch cone neodymium MF speakers and two 1.4-inch exit HF drivers with Pure Truextent beryllium diaphragms. The al-12 can be integrated into systems with a variety of VUE subwoofers to provide extended bass performance.
WorxAudio (www.worxaudio.com) launched the XL1, its latest line array, featuring a 1.4-inch exit compression driver on a 160-degree waveguide, dual 8-inch woofers and offered in unpowered and powered versions. The latter incorporate 1,000 watts of Class D amplification with integrated DSP, Dante audio networking, and WorxControl loudspeaker management.
Console News
As with previous InfoComm shows, new and updated console designs generated a lot of interest among attendees.
Ashly Audio (ashly.com) enters the digital console race with the digiMIX24, a compact 24-channel (16 mic input) mixer with integrated effects, iPad remote control integration, motorized faders and a 7-inch color LCD touch screen. Optional field-installable cards provide either Dante connectivity or a USB interface for multi-track recording/playback.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
Avid’s (avid.com/s6l) VENUE S6L console steps up a notch with the version 5.2 software update. Enhancements include support for two AVB-192 Ethernet AVB Network Cards, allowing for up to 192 remote mic preamps and 96 outputs using three fully loaded Stage 64 I/O racks; a mode to spill any Aux, Group or VCA members onto the surface faders for immediate access; and enhanced visual OLED parameter feedback.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
DiGiCo (digico.biz) created a stir with its new Stealth Core 2 software, a major upgrade to the Stealth Digital Processing for the SD Series. The upgrade for existing users (shipping standard on new consoles) delivers enhanced power from the audio core of every DiGiCo SD series console in terms of both processing channels and functionality. Intending to future-proof SD series consoles, the StealthCore 2 upgrade ships this summer.
Lawo (lawo.com) released an upgraded version of its iOS-based Lawo Remote App. This enables many of the functions of Lawo HD-core-based systems to be controlled remotely from anywhere within a venue or any location with a WLAN connection to the Lawo system. In addition to controlling the console channel’s fader and mutes, and monitoring the corresponding display and labeling, end-users can load snapshots and pre-configured functions, including selection of monitoring sources, setting of crosspoints, or triggering GPIOs for Red Light or start/stop control of external devices.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
Mackie (mackie.com) is shipping its ProDX Series, an all-new line of ultra-compact digital mixers with complete wireless control. The line features two models: the 4-channel ProDX4 and the 8-channel ProDX8. The mixers also feature wireless streaming and control, powerful processing and an intuitive control app for iOS and Android. For those requiring more power, Mackie was demoing its AXIS Digital Mixing System, which combines the power of the 32-channel DL32R digital mixer and innovative DC16 control surface with a unique SmartBridge that intelligently handles up to three iPad devices.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
PreSonus (presonus.com) released two new StudioLive RML-series rackmount Active Integration digital mixers that offer line-level inputs, in addition to the XLR mic inputs found in the RM series. Otherwise, the new RML-series and the RM-series mixers are identical, with the same recallable XMAX preamps and up to 96 kHz operation.
Roland (proav.roland.com) is shipping the XI-WSG Waves SoundGrid Expansion Card, offering even more system possibilities for its M-5000 Series consoles. Taking full advantage of Waves’ SoundGrid networking technology, the XI-WSG has three ports for connection to Waves SoundGrid Servers, allowing for low-latency, redundant audio connection and direct connection to a PC for MultiRack SoundGrid control. The XI-WSG accommodates 64 inputs and 64 outputs for integrating Waves plug-ins, multi-track recording and playback with an M-5000 Series Console.
Stage Tec (stagetec.com) launched an intelligent fiber-optic board for its NEXUS audio networks and mixing console connectivity, acting not only as an I/O transfer medium, but also providing integrated routing functionality. Four independent ports each transport 512 inputs and outputs via fiber optic to Stage Tec’s standard NEXUS audio router.
Waves (waves.com) is now shipping its eMotion LV1 software based mixer, which offers up to 64 channels (with signal processing) and full Waves plug-in integration in from a fast, touch screen-based interface. For more info, check out our Road Test on page 36 of this issue.
Yamaha’s (yamahaca.com) V4.0 firmware offers expanded functionality for CL and QL consoles. Taken from its flagship Rivage PM10, a new “Precise” Constant Q EQ allows pinpoint precision, while the Aggressive and Smooth EQs have proportional-Q algorithms. Other added features include a vintage-modeled MBC4 multi-band compressor; remote control of Shure’s ULXD4D and ULXD4Q wireless from the CL/QL touch displays; MonitorMix iPhone app support; and more.
Mics, Mics, Mics!
Countryman’s (countryman.com) new A3 Series podium mic line features dual-element designs, RF and breath noise suppression and Active Plus Vibration Cancellation. The latter uses the dual cartridge design and integrated damping to cancel noise from bumping/adjusting the gooseneck, dropping objects, thumping the lectern and other handling noises. Four models in the line include three fixed pickup versions and a switchable polar pattern model.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
DPA Microphones (dpamicrophones.com) added three new mounts for its popular d:vote instrument mic line: a clamp mount, stand mount and an accordion clip. The clamp mount is intended for use on music stands in a big band or orchestral application, while the accordion clip lets two mics mount directly on the instrument — one at the left/right hand side and one at the base/treble area, providing a full and balanced mix.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
Earthworks (earthworksaudio.com) expands its FlexMic series of podium microphones to include the FMLR models, which feature a single color LED light ring at the top of the microphone to indicate on/off status. The LED light ring — available in green or red — can be programmed using an external media control system. The mics ship in Q3 2016.
iSEMcon (isemcon.com) launched the Data-Integrated EMX-7150/D measurement mic, which has internal memory that stores its datasheet, calibration data and its freefield response inside the microphone and is readable via an included 1-wire adapter/interface. iSEMcon also showed an accessory protective mic shield (which fits its mics as well as third-party models) for use in outdoor environments.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
Point Source Audio’s (point-sourceaudio.com) EMBRACE earworn mic replaces the laborious task of creating makeshift customized ear rigs. The pliable EMBRACE earmounts can be trimmed and shaped so each microphone can be quickly fitted to the actors or performer, without the need for expensive tools plastic sleeves or trips to the hobby store. Each EMBRACE employs PSA’s SERIES8 mic technology and includes a left and right earmount in beige, brown or black.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
Wireless World
AirNetix StreetSounds(streetsoundswireless.com) is a streaming wireless audio package designed to provide pro-quality audio in outdoor gathering places. StreetSounds combines a 900 MHz wireless radio, internal 70-watt 2-channel amps, weatherproof speakers and brackets for simple mounting to a streetlight or traffic pole. A novel repeater architecture provides a virtually unlimited range so large areas such as downtown districts, parks and theme parks can be covered by real-time audio.
Audix (audixusa.com) showed its 522 to 586 MHz UHF AP 41 (single) and AP 42 (dual) Performance Series wireless systems provide a simple, reliable and versatile wireless rig with a choice of bodypack or handheld (OM2/OM5/VX5) transmitters. Features include microprocessor-controlled antenna diversity, with up to eight simultaneous systems; 106 pre-coordinated frequencies; and one-touch clear channel search. MSRPs range from $500 to $1,900.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
CAD Audio (cadaudio.com) was demoing its affordable 3000 series UHF wireless, which features true diversity frequency agile operation, CADLock™ Automatic Tone Encoded Squelch and
ScanLink™ technology for automatic channel configuration
. Systems are available with a handheld transmitter with D90 capsule or bodypack systems starting at $599.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
Eartec’s (eartec.com) UltraLite is a new breed of full duplex wireless headsets that allow up to four people to communicate simultaneously without a base station. The UltraLite features a miniature transceiver built inside the ear cup, eliminating cables and belt packs. As no base station is required, teams have total mobility with hands free communication within a 400-yard range. A rechargeable lithium polymer battery provides six hours of service/talk time.
Grundorf (grundorf.com) expanded its Tour 4 Series line with cases for wireless mic systems. Available in two depths, both models are 1U designs with protective foam above and beneath the space where the receiver is mounted while the front and rear lids can accommodate handheld and beltpack transmitters, antennas and related accessories. The plywood cases are offered in several ABS laminate finishes.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
Lectrosonics (lectrosonics.com) announced the latest version of its Wireless Designer Software for PC and Mac, which allows importing of frequency lists and the creation of custom frequencies. The software can now include other wireless systems in the overall frequency coordination. HTML files from Professional Wireless Systems’ Intermod Analysis System software, with detailed frequency coordination information, can now be imported directly imported.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
Pliant Technologies (plianttechnologies.com) debuted its CrewCom wireless intercom. Based on the scalable and high user-density CrewNet platform, CrewCom features compact full-duplex beltpacks, multiple simultaneous frequency bands and fast setups. CrewNet can operate over standard Cat-5e (or greater) and/or single mode fiber lines, breaking the current barriers for wireless intercom range and expandability. In addition, CrewWare software offers offline configuration, online control and real-time monitoring of all system components.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
Sennheiser (sennheiser.com) gets a jump on the FCC’s upcoming 600 MHz band wireless reallocation by releasing new frequency versions of its evolution ew 100 G3 wireless mics and ew 300 G3 IEM series. As of this month, both will be available in North America in an A1 variant, which covers the frequency range from 470 to 516 MHz.
Production Essentials
Besides the “big headline” products, we found some useful essentials that can definitely make anyone’s life easier.
Anvil Cases (anvilcase.com) was showing a slick new AQL5 case for Yamaha’s popular QL5 32-channel digital console. The AQL5 case is designed for protection and functionality, including a custom console doghouse.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
Hear Technologies (heartechnologies.com) showed updates for its Hear Back PRO personal monitor mixing system that allows users to customize the system to suit any application. These include ADAT, AES/EBU and Dante I/O cards; a Waves’ SoundGrid card offering I/O and access to Waves plug-ins; an intercom footswitch for easy communication; and an 8-port network breakout box.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
Hosa’s (hosatech.com) PDX Series of AC cords are designed to simplify power cable runs. Each cable has evenly spaced NEMA 5-15R standard Edison outlets to facilitate power to various devices, without resorting to extension cables and electrical strips. The line offers varying numbers of outlets, lengths and wire gauges (12 to 14 AWG) and feature Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) conductors and illuminated outlets.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
Riedel (riedel.net) showed its RSP-2318 and the new ESP-2324 Expansion Smartpanels, which are app-driven multifunctional user interfaces with connectivity via AES67 or AVB and bright multi-touch displays. With the Riedel Intercom App, the RSP-2318 hardware turns into a powerful, expandable intercom key panel or with a touch of a button it can become a video monitoring system.
Whirlwind’s (whirlwindusa.com) PW-1 Personal Wedge stereo headphone driver provides hardwired onstage in-ear monitoring to earbuds and headphones from 16 to 600 ohms. The rugged beltpack unit features left/right line-level XLR inputs; a protective brickwall peak limiter; a stereo/mono switch to can sum the left/right XLR inputs and an additional 3.5mm stereo input. Drive power is 300mW into 30 ohms; the belt clip can be replaced with an optional clamp for attaching to mic stands, drum hardware, etc.
Catch the FOH-TV video at www.fohonline.com/tv.
More to Come
There was more to see — and hear — at InfoComm 2016, and we will present other product debuts online at fohonline.com and in upcoming print issues of FRONT of HOUSE. Meanwhile, InfoComm 2017 will be held June 10 through 16, 2017, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. See you there!
