REAC Merge Technology for the Digital Snake and V-Mixing System Lineup from Roland Systems Group..

Roland Systems Group, developers of the REAC (Roland Ethernet Audio Communication) protocol – a transport technology for low latency, high quality digital audio via Cat5e – today announced the new RSS S-4000M REAC Merge Unit at the International Broadcast Equipment Exhibition (Inter BEE).

The S-4000M REAC Merge Unit allows up to four Digital Snake heads to be merged into a REAC stream where the master device recognizes it as single REAC slave unit. This important technology enables distribution of multiple input/output units around a location, venue or stage for flexible point-to-point digital snake or V-Mixing System configurations.

Connect any combination of the RSS Digital Snake heads such as the S-4000S, S-1608, S-0816 or S-0808 and merge all the input/output to a single REAC signal. The four ports on the front panel also supply REAC embedded power to compatible devices such as the newly announced S-08088×8 I/O Unit.

The intelligent Auto Map function assigns input channels automatically. If the number of inputs connected is greater than the 40 channels allowed by a single REAC stream, choose which inputs go to which channels using the free remote control software (S-4000RCS) or directly using a M-400/M-380 V-Mixer when using as part of a V-Mixing System.

The S-4000M also serves as a distributor of outputs and/or splitter. Any inputs returning from the master (Port A) are distributed to the outputs depending on the devices connected. When S-0808 units are connected, specific output assignments can also be mapped.

“We are happy to be able to announce merging capability within the REAC protocol. Consultants, designers and integrators have requested the ability to distribute I/O around their installations and stages so we’re happy to be able to now meet that need”, commented John Broadhead, Vice President of Technology and Communications. “The S-4000M represents an evolution that now permits flexible digital audio configurations that were just not possible before”.

About REAC

REAC (Roland Ethernet Audio Communication) is the audio transport protocol developed by Roland to meet the Pro-Audio market’s need for a point-to-point 24 bit/ 96kHz, low latency digital audio transport for live sound use and commercial applications. The REAC protocol is capable of transmitting 40 channels of 24bit / 96kHz audio over inexpensive Cat5e cable and can be easily split using standard gigabit switches making it easy and very cost effective to have lossless all-digital splits of the stage audio for FOH, monitor, broadcast and recording locations. Products using REAC technology are installed today in many venues and have been used for high profile events worldwide.

via [press release]

Stewart Audio introduces three sub compact power amplifiers: the AV25, CVA-25, and CVA-50

Stewart Audio introduces three sub­compact power amplifiers: the AV25, CVA-25, and CVA-50. Each model weighs less than 1lb., and they are specifically designed to be located in places typically off-limits to traditional-sized amplifiers—without compromising sound quality or power. Equally significant, these amplifiers are Energy Star-compliant, and they incorporate Stewart Audio’s proprietary Signal Sense Power Technology (SSPT), which ensures the amp is only powered when there is a signal present, thus saving energy and extending product life. Each model is Plenum-rated and designed to provide convenience and installation flexibility above the ceiling or in other environmental air spaces. This feature makes these amps a great choice for concealing the unit to prevent theft. With available pole- and universal-mounting brackets, these power amps can be pole-mounted, attached behind flatpanel displays, recessed in lecterns, and placed in other locations—making them an exceptional choice for hospitality applications, presentation spaces, and classrooms. MSRP: $259 (AV25); $289 (CVA-25); $359 (CVA-50)

via [pressrelease]

Stewart Audio adds 3 new sub compact amplifiers to their already extensive range

Stewart Audio announces three new subcompact power amplifiers: the AV25 and the CVA Series, which includes the CVA-25 and CVA-50. With each model weighing less than 1 pound, these ultra-compact, versatile power amplifiers are specifically designed to be located in places typically off limits to traditional-sized amplifiers—without compromising sound quality or power. Equally significant, these amplifiers are ENERGY STAR compliant and incorporate Stewart Audio’s proprietary Signal Sense Power Technology™ (SSPT™) that ensures the amplifier is only powered when there is a signal present, thus saving energy and extending product life.

The Stewart Audio AV25, CVA-25, and CVA-50 are all Plenum rated and are designed to provide convenience and installation flexibility above the ceiling or in other environmental air spaces. This feature makes these amplifiers a great choice for concealing the unit to prevent theft and is also extremely useful when space is limited. With available pole and universal mounting brackets, these innovative power amps can be pole mounted, attached behind flat panel displays, recessed in lecterns, and placed in countless other locations—making them an exceptional choice for hospitality applications, presentation spaces, and classrooms with AV projection systems or flat panel video displays.

So tiny in size that it sits comfortably on one’s palm, Stewart Audio’s quarter-rack sized AV25 is a two channel, class D power amplifier designed to drive both 4- and 8-Ohm loads at 35W and 25W per channel respectively. Designed for sonic accuracy, high efficiency, and extended duty cycles, the AV25 features clean, full, dynamic range power that makes this unit ideal for both background music and speech. The rear panel has LEDs for power, signal presence, and clipping, and its recessed gain controls ensure against accidental changes in output level. Additional features include remote volume control, balanced/unbalanced input, and an external inline power supply.

Like the AV25, Stewart Audio’s new CVA-25 and CVA-50 power amplifiers are ultra-compact, quarter-rack sized models. These mono, Class D power amps are designed to drive both 25V and 70V distributed systems—outputting 25W and 50W respectively. Featuring sonic accuracy, high efficiency, low power consumption, and extended duty cycles, the new CVA-25 and CVA-50 deliver clean, full-range dynamic power and incorporate a rich feature set designed to meet the requirements of fixed installations. The rear panels of these amplifiers have LEDs for power, signal presence, and clipping, and their recessed gain controls ensure against accidental changes in output level. Further, these versatile amplifiers feature remote volume control, balanced/unbalanced input, and an external inline power supply.

Brian McCormick, Chief Marketing Officer for Stewart Audio, commented on the company’s new power amp offerings. “The Stewart Audio AV25, CVA-25, and CVA-50 power amps are quite unique in their ability to address a wide range of installed sound applications,” said McCormick. “The fact that these amps are both ENERGY STAR compliant and Plenum rated enables these units to be concealed in ways that are simply out of the question for many larger amplifiers where heat and proper ventilation become major concerns. With the available mounting brackets, these amplifiers can go just about anywhere. As an example, the amplifiers can easily be positioned adjacent to ceiling mounted projectors using the pole mounting bracket. These American made amplifiers deliver first-rate audio quality, offer the features contractors require, and are backed by a comprehensive 3 year warranty.”

via [press release]

Yamaha’s 1mm-thick prototype speaker is made from cloth, highly directional

We’ve already heard first-hand how Yamaha can make surround sound emerge from a single soundbar, and now the outfit’s wowing again here at CEATEC. It’s latest aural innovation was tucked quietly away within its booth, disguised as an advertorial for the show itself. Essentially, the banner you’re peering at above is a one millimeter thick speaker that’s made from cloth, and it definitely has the potential to revolution billboards and possibly even portable media devices. As you can clearly hear in the video just past the break, the flat sound waves emitted from the cloth cannot be heard unless you’re standing directly in front of it; even separate audio files playing back just a few feet away didn’t overlap with what we heard coming directly at us. There’s no telling if Yamaha will ever take this public, but if it does, there are about forty billion ad agencies in the greater New York area that would like to speak to it.

via [engadget]

AKG Showcase Architectural Microphone Shaped Sound Series

Based acoustically on the classic AKG Blue Line Series, the Architectural Microphone Series (AMS) is representing itself to be the latest must-have in microphones. With a new wave of customizable possibilities in microphones, the AMS guarantees that conference rooms will never be the same again.

The AMS series allows users to customize the microphone by easily adjusting the length of the gooseneck module as well as selecting various designs for the shape of the capsule housing unit. The self-designed microphone can be personalized with any color as well as a shiny gold, chrome or a cool nickel finish for professional settings. In total, the entire microphone series are available in more than 6,840 customizable settings.

Premium studio microphones, like the AMS, are characterized by a very flat frequency response, low self-noise and a consistent polar pattern. Three precision transducers make up the series, all with different polar patterns, including a cardioid, an omni-directional and a hyper-cardioid.

Beside the 3 different polar patterns to match different room acoustics, the AMS showcases a diverse range of capabilities, such as flat frequency response for acoustic performance, gold sputtered ultra-low mass diaphragms, switchable bass cut filter and preattenuation pad. The series also offers an extremely high resistance to RF interference for extended versatility.

Adding on to the extraordinary attributes of the AMS, the mics are equipped with a bayonet coupling system with self-cleaning contacts. The Blue Line bayonet coupling system enables the capsules to be easily change.

With the installation of any of the microphones in the AMS, different mounting modules are available, including a wide range of specialized mounting accessories specifically dedicated to making the installation easy and bringing the microphone into place. Blended rubber material and high mechanical damping in the shock mounts help to eliminate any mechanical vibrations.

via [press release]

Clear-Com’s Tempest2400 to Take a Bite of the Big Apple

Clear-Com Communication Systems, a Vitec Group brand, is pleased to announce the East Coast debut of its Tempest2400 wireless intercom system at AES 2009 (Booth 676). Tempest2400 operates in a license-free frequency band where it is fundamentally resistant to interference from other wireless devices, ensuring that communications go off without a hitch in even the most crowded RF environments. Ideal for the rental and staging market as well as live performance applications, it can be operated indoors and outdoors.

By utilizing the 2.4 GHz Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) in conjunction with TDMA technology, the Tempest2400 RF scheme avoids the need for licensing and frequency coordination. In addition, once registered to a base station, a beltpack needs no further configuration and roams freely within a single zone area, making it perfect for such highly coordinated productions as festivals and concerts.

Tempest2400 also appeals to those finding it difficult to operate wireless equipment in the 470-698 MHz portion of the UHF band due to an increasingly crowded spectrum. “As it operates in the unlicensed 2.4 GHz band, it is unaffected by regulatory restrictions that inhibit the wireless communications in other frequency bands,” says Chris Barry, Product Manager, Clear-Com. “Its simple set-up requirements and portability also make it a tremendous asset for those looking to use it for multiple types of applications.”

Each base station supports up to five full-duplex, four-audio-channel digital wireless beltpacks; by stacking up to 10 base stations together, 50 independent, full-duplex wireless beltpacks can operate together in a single system.

Tempest2400 features state-of-the-art 2xTX Transmission Voice Data Redundancy, which sends each packet of audio data twice on different frequencies, and through different antennas, ensuring uninterrupted audio communications. It can interoperate with other Clear-Com intercom systems through four-wire and two-wire connections, as well as those from other manufacturers.

Other key features include the iSelect roaming feature, which allows the beltpack user to move from one zone area to the next and quickly switch to a different base station in the new zone area. The T-Desk software, a powerful PC-based control and configuration application, offers the ability to monitor and manage the entire wireless system from a remote location via Ethernet connection to a LAN. A PC running T-Desk can also interface with a base station via direct connection over CAT-5 cable.

Additional benefits of Tempest2400 include an optional remote transceiver that allows remote antenna placement up to 1,500 feet (450 meters) from the base station; data connection and power supplied over standard CAT5e/6 cable with lightweight, fast-charging Lithium Polymer (Li-Poly) battery technology in the beltpack; access to one of six relay closures from the beltpack and vibrating call alert. In addition, a flexible battery solution allows beltpacks to operate on standard AA batteries for emergency use; beltpack battery telemetry is displayed in real-time on the beltpack and base station LCDs, indicating how much power is left in each pack.

via [press release]

HDTV Screens Could Become The Speaker – Emo Labs

TVs might be getting beautifully thinner, but we’re often still forced to use external speaker setups to get decent sound quality. Emo Labs‘ solution: embed a thin and clear “invisible” membrane speaker into the screen itself. Watch it in action:

It’s a completely new type of speaker technology that could also find its way into other thin gadgetry: laptops, LCD monitors, cellphones, photo frames, and hand held consoles.

Emo Labs calls the tech Edge Motion, and it basically involves the clear layer microflexing to generate soundwaves. Enough to produce a room full of stereo sound—without effecting visual screen quality.

They’ve embedded Edge Motion into a 42-inch TV for the demo below, but there’s still no word on which TV manufacturers, if any, they’ve managed to sign up. The vid comes from this week’s DEMOfall 09 tech showcase, where they won best consumer-oriented product. [Emo Labs via DEMO via Mashable]

Even more CobraNet Input Card from AudioScience

AudioScience was asked, and AudioScience listened!

The ASI6316, a PCI Express CobraNet sound card with dual RJ45 connectors, was on the drawing board when several customers approached AudioScience requesting specific additions to the ASI6416, AudioScience’s first CobraNet sound card. Those requests for the ASI6416 made it into the ASI6316.

“Our customers were in the right place at the right time,” said Richard Gross, president of AudioScience. “We incorporated some very key features into the ASI6316, allowing for even greater flexibility in a diverse field of installations. The ASI6316 was built with direct input from our customers.”

Besides having a PCI Express and dual redundant CobraNet interfaces, there is support for up to eight ASI6316s in one system. With new Intercard Sync, one can start or stop audio across multiple ASI6316s with one sample accuracy. A programmable selection of either word clock input or word clock output has been added, along with a serial bridge that is exposed as an internal USB header.

“We appreciate the feedback we get from our customers and the ASI6316 is proof that ASI does listen,’ added Gross.

Drivers are provided for Windows XP, Server 2003, and Vista, as well as for Linux. 64-bit drivers are available for Windows Vista and Linux. AudioScience’s application, ASIControl, allows CobraNet routing connections to be made between the ASI6316 and any other CobraNet compliant device on the network. SDKs are available for Windows and Linux using either standard APIs such as DirectSound or ALSA, or the proprietary AudioScience HPI and ASX interfaces.

via [press release]

more …..

More CobraNet interface to consider

The InBox M3 CobraNet Audio Input Interface is a cost effective five input, mic/line level wall box. The M3 features a mic input with switchable mic/line gain, switchable +12V phantom power, and a clipping indicator. In addition, the M3 has a stereo RCA inputs and a stereo 3.5mm input. The M3 is designed to fit into a standard dual gang junction box and is PoE enabled, so all connectivity (both power and audio data) to the M3 is provided by a single CAT-5 cable. The InBox M3 features DSP audio processing including EQ, compression, and bundle blending. The M3 is available in either a white or a black finish.

More …..

CLEAR-COM GREETS PLASA 09 WITH LATEST IN DIGITAL WIRELESS INTERCOMS

Clear-Com® Communication Systems, a Vitec Group brand, is bringing its latest innovations in digital wireless intercom technology to PLASA 2009 (Stand 1-J35). On tap at the show will be the newly released FreeSpeak® Version 2.0 and Tempest®2400, two groundbreaking wireless offerings aimed at ensuring that when it comes to communications for live performance and other mission-critical productions, users never have to compromise on intercom audio quality, reliability and accessibility.

FreeSpeak V2.0─1.9GHz Digital Wireless Intercom System

FreeSpeak V2.0 combines full-duplex beltpack communications, antenna-to-antenna roaming and low latency to give users immediate access to reliable, quality communications whenever they need it. In the fast-paced world of live production, an intercom audio delay of even one second or the inability of one staff person to relay an important directive to another can lead to missed cues, miscommunications between key staff and other major lapses. FreeSpeak’s low audio latency and full-duplex, non-blocking system architecture, which allows any beltpack user to talk with any other user on the system at any time, guards against gaffes caused by poor communications.

Other features of the license-free FreeSpeak Version 2.0 include enhanced beltpack capacity, Interrupted Foldback (IFB) functionality and improved group operations between beltpacks, party-lines and other external inputs. The system supports the ability of up to 20 beltpacks to roam seamlessly between remote active antennas. The integrated IFB capability allows users to listen to audio feeds, while others can interrupt the feed at any point. Furthermore, wireless party-line groups make it possible to seamlessly mix party-line users, external inputs and beltpack users in the same group without having different output volume levels.

Tempest2400─2.4GHz Digital Wireless Intercom System

The Tempest2400, meanwhile, operates worldwide in the 2.4GHz license-free frequency band, where it is fundamentally immune to inference from other wireless devices, ensuring that communications go off without a hitch at concerts, theatrical productions and other crowded RF environments. Each Tempest base station supports up to five full-duplex, four audio-channel digital wireless beltpacks; by stacking up to 10 base stations together, 50 independent, full-duplex wireless beltpacks can operate together in a single system. The iSelect Roaming feature allows the beltpack user to move from one studio to the next and quickly switch to a different base station in the new studio. It also boasts one of the longest beltpack-to-base station distances currently available, and features microphone kill and stage announce capabilities. It can interoperate with other Clear-Com intercom systems through four-wire and two-wire connections, as well as those from other manufacturers.

Tempest incorporates advanced technologies such as patented Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum and proprietary Redundant Data Transmission to help maintain a robust, reliable RF link even in the presence of many other wireless devices utilizing the same frequency band. Its unique RF architecture allows the system to co-exist alongside Wi-Fi networks with little interference, while an extremely high audio dynamics range (>94dB) enables it to function exceptionally well in high-noise environments.

The T-Desk software, a powerful PC-based control and configuration application, offers the ability to monitor and manage the entire wireless system from a remote location via Ethernet connection to a LAN.

“At PLASA this year, our goal is to present practical solutions to the common communication issues faced by those working in live production and similar environments,” says Stephen Sandford, Product Manager, Clear-Com Communications. “The FreeSpeak Version 2.0 and Tempest2400 digital wireless intercom systems are ideal for this type of strategy, as they have been designed from the ground up to handle RF interference issues, accessibility concerns, outdoor performance challenges and other experiences typically encountered in the field. We’re proud to be able to offer not just one, but two digital wireless intercom systems that truly help our customers maximize the value of their production workflow.”

Via {pressrelease]