As 2014 came to a close, Pro-Systems’ Thuli Mlambo set out to chat to AV
integrators and live entertainment professionals to find out which products and
apps made their work easier during 2014.
INTEGRATION & INSTALLATION PRODUCTS
Apple Yosemite and IOS-8
iOS 8 has a convenient new way to respond to notifications, helpful shortcuts to the
people that business people talk to most, and time-saving features for managing
mail – all of which make the experience of using iPhone, iPad or iPod touch that
much better.
Apple Yosemite has the ability to perform quick calculations and conversions. The
calendar is a little more intelligent, autocompleting attendees if one creates a
regular event. There’s also a lot more space for editing existing events. Markup in
Mail is useful and Mail Drop is more so. Along with iCloud Drive, Mail Drop means
the need for DropBox will be less frequent.
Integrator opinion:
“With this combination, the seamless integration between fixed and mobile devices
is unbeatable, saving time and removing hassle.’ – Gavin Olivier, managing
director, Digital Fabric.
Avaya Scopia XT5000 Telepresence Platform
The Avaya Scopia XT Telepresence Platform creates a lifelike, immersive
experience replicating the feeling of meeting in-person. The Scopia XT Telepresence
Platform is customisable to the unique requirements of individual rooms and
customer needs.
Integrator opinion:
“We have had the privilege of installing a custom telepresence solution at a few of
our client’s branches. The Scopia XT5000 Telepresence solution impressed us with
its versatility, allowing the integrator to tailor the solution to the customer’s exact
needs. Calibration of the cameras was effortless, even though the boardroom table
in the solution was a round design. It was possible to create the perfect illusion of
being in the same room as the far-end, with the table flowing into the display,
connecting the rooms physically. The video quality is superb, with life-like scale
being portrayed. This platform uses H.264 High Profile and SVC (Scalable Video
Coding), lowering bandwidth and providing high network error resiliency.’ – Marnus
Swart, AV/VC engineer, Ubuntu Technologies.
Crestron DMPS 300-C
The Crestron DMPS 300-C is a complete presentation control and signal routing
solution for boardrooms and classrooms. Integrating the control system, multimedia
matrix switcher, mic mixer, audio DSP, amplifier and DigitalMedia distribution
centre all into a single three-space rackmount package, the DMPS-300-C affords
substantial signal routing flexibility and high-performance signal processing without
the need for separate components.
Integrator opinion:
“It’s one of the most useful and versatile pieces of equipment currently available for
the boardroom space. It’s not cheap, but simplifies the installation and works every
time.’ – Stefan Mayer, managing director, Corporate AV Integration.
Crestron DMPS3-4K-150-C
The Crestron DMPS3-4K-150-C provides a 4K multi-format presentation switcher
with fully automatic operation and DigitalMedia connectivity. It works seamlessly
out of the box with up to four Crestron Connect It tabletop interfaces.
Integrator opinion:
“It’s an ultra HD Switcher / Scaler that supports 4K. It is HDBaseT-compliant with
an auto-switching feature therefore requires no programming. If you want to
programme then it also includes a Core-3 Crestron processor. In our view it’s a
complete all-in-one solution perfect for small boardrooms. We are currently
including this product in our system designs.’ – Darryl Katz, managing director,
4ward-design.
Kramer VP-435 Component / UXGA HDMI Scaler
The unit, which incorporates HDMI technology, scales incoming video signals and
outputs an HDMI signal with any associated audio embedded. The VP-435 is ideal
for projection systems in conference rooms, boardrooms, hotels and churches, as
well as for home theatre and residential use.
Integrator opinion:
“It is a simple auto switching for HDMI and VGA input to HDMI output.’ – Stefan
Mayer, managing director, Corporate AV Integration.
EPSON iProjection App and Software
The EPSON iProjection App and Software displays content from an iPhone, iPad, iPod
touch or Android smartphones and tablets. This new application allows road
warriors to travel lightly and present from their mobile devices.
Integrator opinion:
“It’s an innovative smartphone or tablet app that makes it possible for hotel guests
and meeting delegates in corporate environments to connect wirelessly (via WAN,
LAN or WiFi) to the projector and present seamlessly. We make particular use of
this technology and it is one of the cornerstones of our integration service. EPSON
were the first to perfect this and make it available on the App Stores for Google,
Android and iOS devices. There are more innovative features coming in January
2015. The tangible benefits are: more immersive meetings, delegates use their own
familiar technology, time saving setup, cross-platform integration… and more.’
– Kevin MacMillan Craig, director of Innovation, Converged Connectivity.
D-Tools System Integrator SIX
D-Tools System Integrator SIX 2013 is a complete estimation, system design and
project management solution that scales to fit the needs of your business – from
large commercial integrators to small residential companies. SIX can help you
increase revenues as well as reduce time and costs associated with the installation
and integration of audio visual, energy, home automation, security and IT
networking systems.
Integrator opinion:
“It makes quotation, system design, project management and implementation
accurate and simple.’
– Richard Hill-Jowett ,CEO , Audiovisual Designs.
LIVE EVENTS PRODUCTS
Avolites Media Ai Media Server Infinity EX Series
The Ai Infinity server features eight unique full HD DVI outputs, each with internal
EDID management and production and preview connectors. The EX range now adds
third generation PCI Express motherboards, graphics cards and RAID SSD drives for
ultimate performance.
The Infinity server includes many more unique hardware features, such as LTC
timecode input, DMX 512 and Artnet output and a front panel touch screen showing
the Ai Visualiser. All of these features reduce the requirement for other separate
rack mounted products which also reduces the overall project budget and saves on
precious rack space.
“The Infinity EX8 revolutionises the way in which video content is played back,
especially onto 3D surfaces, where the server plays content on 3D mesh models in
a virtual environment. Unique in class tools such as individual projector mesh
correction makes this an incredibly powerful tool for video mapping applications.
End-user opinion:
Projector placement and content warping is now really fast to setup, and with Ai’s
projector mesh correction tools, the content can be mapped onto the physical
objects perfectly in a matter of minutes.
The other really attractive feature of the product is the flexibility the program’s
interface offers. The core underlying program is build-on modules which are wired
together in the order you wish to use them in, the user can largely determine how
certain features and effects engines behave. This, coupled with the flexibility to
control the server from various control surfaces, really won us over.’ – Mike
Tempest, senior audio visual engineer and development, Gearhouse Group.
Ayrton MagicPanel 602
MAGICPANEL™602 is a modular LED luminaire allowing for a broad range of diverse
visual effects . Equipped with continuous unlimited PAN & TILT rotation, it is able to
display media thank to its ArtNet inpout/output or to be controlled via DMX RDM
protocol through its XLR connectors.
The display is made up of 36 15 Watt LED RGBW modules fitted with high-output
7,5° 45-mm optics, the unit runs on a sophisticated and particularly quiet cooling
system and offers an overall luminous flux in excess of 14.000 lumen for a
consumption of 600 Watt.
End-user opinion:
“I haven’t seen an innovative light like this in quite a while and it is phenomenal
when it comes to creating visual and 3D effects. It boasts a lot of features which
make it unique and different to any other light on the market, such as unlimited pan
and tilt rotation, which means it can be spun around in any direction for as long as
you like. Making use of the new 4G Ayrton technology, each of its 36 LED modules
can be controlled individually allowing you to create images, numbers and even
logos. The possibilities are endless with this product and it ensures a world class
event whenever it is used.’ – Sean Crawley, HOD Lighting, Sound Stylists.
Robe MMX Spot
It is a new technology discharge fixture that has similar light output to most
existing 1 200 W luminaires. The unit is based on the new Robin advanced
technology design that provides brighter, more efficient, physically lighter and
smaller fixtures than previously possible.
End-user opinion:
“It is an awesome light to use; it is very powerful and versatile with the effects
wheel and projection gobos. It provides brighter, more efficient, physically lighter
and smaller fixtures. MMX has the “dual graphics wheel’ – two fully controllable
contra-rotating plates that can be positioned anywhere across the light path to
produce unique visual effects.’ – Christiaan Ballot, managing director, Blond
Productions.
Coolux Pandoras Box Server and Manager
Pandoras Box Server
Pandoras Box Server system offers a turnkey solution that perfectly unites state-of-
the-art rendering technology with intuitive media and show control. A high-quality
server featuring a powerful render-engine offers real-time compositing in 3D and
allows for projection onto any shape and on any surface.
Pandoras Box Manager
The Pandoras Box Manager re-defines real-time editing and playback control. This
standalone software allows synchronisation and remote control of all Pandoras Box
media playback products via network. The built-in sequences and cue-based
timeline interface enables you to control Pandoras Box Servers, Players as well as
interfacing with all kinds of external controllers via TCP/IP, Serial RS232/422,
SMPTE, DMX, Art-Net, analog and digital industrial sensors.
End-user opinion:
“It is a media server and show control system which is both stable and versatile,
allowing operators to 3D warp, blend, mask or pixel map with ease. No matter what
you need to do on your event, coolux can handle it! The only limitation it has comes
in the form of you, the user! If you can dream it, it can do it!’ – Jason Cole, HOD
/AV, Dream Sets.
JBL VTX line array Series
VTX V25
The VTX V25 is a full size three-way high-directivity line array element. The VTX
V25 features two 2 000 W 15-inch Differential Drive woofers mounted in die cast
aluminium baffles, with four 8-inch Differential Drive midrange transducers and
three of the revolutionary new D2 Dual-Diaphragm Dual-Voice-Coil Compression
Drivers mounted on a third-generation waveguide and patented RBI – Radiation
Boundary Integrator assembly. Patented rigging, Crown VRack DSP and
amplification, and JBL HiQnet Performance Manager configuration and control
software complete the system package.
VTX V20 features the advanced technology and extraordinary performance of the
VTX V25 in a smaller format, high power density three-way system complemented
by a new suspension system that provides efficient transport, fast setup and precise
configuration. All VTX V20 components have been specifically engineered to provide
stable 110-degree horizontal coverage and effective line source array coupling in
the vertical plane while delivering linear, transparent sound up to surprisingly high
output levels for its diminutive size.
End-user opinion:
“The JBL VTX25 and new “baby’ VTX20 have phenomenal audio power and have
marked a major step forward with innovation and design. Audio fidelity is
exceptional with a much smoother, solid frequency response. The system has
received very favourable comments from even the harshest critics.
It appears on many local riders as well as international artists such as John Legend,
Maroon 5, Metallica and others.’ – Marius Marais, sound engineer (and company
owner), Audio Logic.
Renewed Vision ProVideoPlayer 2
Since its original release eight years ago, PVP has been used by organisations
around the world to create video walls, digital signage, dynamic staging and much
more. This experience and customer feedback drove the development plan for the
next generation of this powerful tool. The need for a robust, easy-to-use playback
tool that excels in multi-screen environments is something we have heard from
many customers.
End-user opinion:
“PVP is a video play back program for Mac. The new PVP 2 has so many new
improvements. PVP is known for its versatility to play back a wide range of codecs
but now with all the effect generators built-in to PVP 2 and masking abilities, it has
taken this product to a whole new level. PVP 2 is a must-have if you are in live
video playback. It is cost efficient and reliable.’ – Johan Botha, HOV of AV, MGG.
SGM G.Spot Profile LED Moving Head
The G-Spot is a multi-environmental, maintenance-free fixture with an IP-rating of
65.
End-user opinion:
“This product has several exceptional features that make it not only a wish-list top
10 but a must-have item. The fact that it is maintenance-free makes it enough of a
win, in addition it has an IP rating of 65 so it is water, dirt and sand proof, works in
any weather conditions and environment, and it’s the brightest 100% LED-based
spotlight with all the bells and whistles. It won the top industry Plasa Award for
2013 (for good reason) and it adds on modular capabilities that make it
interchangeable between profile and spot which means your inventory can be a lot
smaller.’ – Michael Collyer, CEO, TechRig Technical Solutions Agency.
ShurePlus Channels app
ShurePlus Channels untethers you from the mixing console, delivering time-saving
convenience to roam the performance space while monitoring key Shure wireless
system parameters from an iOS device.
The app relays critical channel information including RF, audio, and battery levels.
Quickly switch between any of your wireless channels using the sortable channels
list.
Mobile control of wireless channel settings can be added via in-app purchases.
Unlocking this feature allows remote adjustment of frequency assignments, audio
gain, muting, and more.
End-user opinion:
“The app helps engineers to have remote control and monitoring of compatible
Shure wireless systems to an iOS device. The app relays critical channel
information including RF, audio, and battery levels, and allows for remote
adjustment of wireless channel and receiver settings. Our sound engineers can use
it on iPhone or iPad and increased efficiency of RF management.’ – Marius Marais,
sound engineer (and company owner , Audio Logic.
Shure ULX-D digital wireless microphone system
The Shure ULX-D Digital Wireless offers extremely efficient RF performance,
networked control, Dante digital audio, and AES-256 encryption for professional
sound reinforcement.
End-user opinion:
“The Shure ULXD is a brilliant digital wireless system. It is rugged, scalable and
reliable. The RF is exceptionally stable. Dante simplifies audio over IP solutions and
the Lithium Ion batteries and recharge stations have drastically cut my battery
budget! It’s a no-compromise solution for the professional audio industry. Shure’S
Wireless Workbench (their RF Management software) ensures that the RF is always
stable.’ – Marius Marais, sound engineer (and company owner), Audio Logic.
Soundcraft Vi3000
The Soundcraft Vi3000 features an all-new appearance with a more efficiently
designed control surface, 36 faders, 24 mono / stereo busses and a sweeping black
screen panel with four Vistonics II touchscreen interfaces with sleek, updated 3D
graphics. Because the Vi3000 has four touchscreens, it’s the only console in its class
that can be used by two engineers at the same time.
End-user opinion:
“By far the best value for money digital console available (in its category) since its
launch this year. 3D Vistonics makes mixing so simple and easy to follow. Vistonics
can also allow more than one engineer to mix on the desk simultaneously. It has
FaderGlow, which is a unique and elegant solution to help follow assignable faders.
The seamless operation with UAD plug-ins is brilliant! Vi3000 also has Lexicon
Effects, built-in Dante and MADI, which simplifies integration. Routing capability of
the desk is large (more than 200 ins and outs) making it quite versatile.’ – Marius
Marais, sound engineer (and company owner), Audio Logic.
