Sound & Communications October 20, 2008 Issue

WHETHER YOU’RE DESIGNING A RESTAURANTOR DISPLAYING THE MENU, WE CAN HELP.Special: Mango Gelato with Almond Meringue & Wild BerriesDessertsKey Lime Pie and awarm HuckleberryCompoteChocolate-CaramelTart with RaspberryCoulisMeyer Lemon Puddingand Crème FraicheCrème Brulee with aFig GlazeNow there’s a Sharp Professional Monitor for every business.When choosing a large-format display for your industrial application, consider Sharp Professional LCD Monitors. Available in screen class sizes up to65" (65-17/32" diagonal), these displays are our highest commercial design for extended use (24/7) applications. Ideal for teleconferencing, digitalsignage, CAD/simulation, corporate, government and education, sports arenas and houses of worship, Sharp Professional LCD Monitors offer full 1920x 1080 (2-megapixel) resolution from analog RGB, digital RGB and HD Video sources. Plus, they are supported by a three-year on-site warranty and arecompatible with SDSS Sharp Digital Signage Software. To learn more, please call 1-866-4-VISUAL or visit sharpusa.com/monitors©2008 Sharp Electronics Corporation. Sharp is a registered trademark of Sharp Corporation. All rights reserved. Screen images simulated.

It seems that everything we do todayis becoming an “entertainment”venue. I exaggerate, of course, butit’s not just Six Flags or Disney orUniversal anymore. Bowling alleysused to be a place where you’d goplunk down your coins, throw abig black ball around, sit at a chairand write scores (after totalingthe score on your fingers). Now,they have multicolored balls, blacklights, lots of music and video, andautomatic scoring (no more “practice”balls...).The same goes for other destinations.Our theme this month exemplifieshow technology has takenhold. Again, back in the day, if youwanted to have a drink (and, possibly,a smoke), and see a ball gameor other entertainment outside yourhome, you’d hit the local bistroand partake in a beer or three.Today, that bistro has become a“major” industry, transforming intoa sports bar with multiple largescreens (both video and projection)throughout, custom-tailored audio,environmental lighting (and, ofcourse, no smoking).The technology we have todaymakes a place like this issue’s coverstory subject, Jack Astor’s Bar &Grill in Toronto (and other restaurantsor drinking/sports emporiums),so different from what wewere used to. Not only are patronsgetting that drink and some goodfood (possibly), but they are alsosurrounded by “eye and ear candy”supplied by many different types ofaudio and video. In this case, withinits 14,000 square feet, Jack Astor’soffers 72 LCD screens of differentsizes and in unusual configurations—evena video “chandelier”—and three projectors, as well as 60speakers in 11 separate zones. If youcan’t find what you want in a placelike this, you probably shouldn’thave left the house!Of course, each one of thesevenues, unless custom-built to AVfriendlyspecs, offers design challenges.And that’s what makes thissegment so interesting. No cookiecutterinstalls here. The same goesfor hotels, convention centers andsimilar venues. What used to behigh-tech—allowing remote connectionand control of PowerPointpresentations, for example—isn’tanywhere near the barest minimumin today’s world. The combinationof everything IT and AV has to workor these facilities have no chance ofdrawing business customers, or evenvacationing consumers who expect atleast what they’ll find at home (suchas high-speed internet and large,high-definition flat screens).“Entertainment” or not, AV inthese types of venues is big businesstoday, and continues to grow. We’llbe touching on these opportunitiesin upcoming VIEWpoint streamingvideo webcasts and in future issuesof Sound & Communications. nEditorDavid A. Silvermandsilverman@testa.comAssociate EditorDan Ferrisidferrisi@testa.comAssistant EditorMichelle Loebmloeb@testa.comContributing EditorsR. David ReadJim StokesContributorsDawn Allcot; Gary Kayye, CTS;David Lee Jr., PhD ; David McNutt;Robin Parker; R. David Read; Jim Stokes;Tony Warner, CTS-D, CSI CDT, LEED AP;Chuck Wilson; Dan WynneTechnical CouncilGary Kayye, CTS, Kayye Consulting, Inc.David Lee Jr., PhD, Lee Communication Inc.Joel Lewitz, PE, Lewitz and Associates, Inc.David E. Marsh, FASA,Pelton Marsh Kinsella, LLCDavid McNutt, ConsultantThomas C. Rauscher, Archi-TechnologyTony Warner, CTS-D, CSI CDT, LEED AP, RTKLGraphic Designer/ArtistJanice PupelisWeb DesignerPhillip TaylorProduction ManagerSteve ThorakosSales Assistant/Ad TrafficSam Mitranismitrani@testa.comAdvertising ManagerBob Beuclerbbeucler@testa.comClassified SalesLinda Inglimalinglima@testa.comCirculationLinda Emanuelecirculation@testa.comOperations ManagerRobin Hazanrhazan@testa.comAssociate PublisherJohn Carrjcarr@testa.comPresident/PublisherVincent P. TestaEditorial and Sales OfficeSound & Communications25 Willowdale AvenuePort Washington, New York 11050-3779(516) 767-2500FAX: (516) 767-9335soundcom@testa.comSound & Communications (ISSN 0038-1845) (USPS 943-140) is published monthly plus a special thirteenth issue(Blue Book), for $25 (US), $35 (Canada & Mexico), and $65 (all other countries), by Sound & Communications Publications,Inc., 25 Willowdale Ave., Port Washington, NY 11050-3779. Periodicals postage paid at Port Washington, NY, andadditional mailing offices.Copyright © 2008 SOUND & COMMUNICATIONS PUBLISHING, INC. Reprint of any part of contents without permissionforbidden. Titles Registered in the U.S. Patent Office.POSTMASTER: Send U.S. address changes to Sound & Communications, PO Box 1767, Lowell, MA 01853-1767.Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608. Canada Returns to be sent to Bleuchip International, P.O. Box25542, London, ON N6C 6B2.Sound & Communications • DJ TimesSound & Communications Blue BookThe Music & Sound Retailer • International DJ ExpoClubWorld • IT/AV ReportSound & Communications’ VIEWpointThe Retailer’s VnewsletterConvention TV @ NAMM • InfoCommTV News • VTTV StudiosSound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

Multi-zone Program and Paging Management.The MPM4, full function, simple, secure, and no computer required.The MPM4 does it all with a unique, straightforward andintuitive front panel interface that makes setup a snapwhile keeping unauthorized users out. It’s easy! Users canroute 4 different program sources to any of 4 zones with asimple push of a button while separate Setup/User modeskeep setup parameters secure. Only Source/Zone assignand Zone volume are accessible when in User mode. Allother setup parameters can be password protected and areprogrammed from the front panel. No coMPuTer required.MPM4r Wall remoteOptional wallplate remote controls can belocated up to 1500’ away from the mainunit and connect with ordinary CAT-5cables. Remotes allow selection of source,and provide control of volume and zone mute.Setup Mode Adjustments include:A total of twelve four band EQs are available for programsources, priority inputs and zone outputs.Four priority inputs can be assigned to any zone forpaging, jukebox auto-play, announcements, etc., withprogrammable control of automatic override or duckingof program sources.Maximum zone volumes can be programmed to keeplevels under control.System balance is accomplished with trims for eachprogram source and each priority input.And there’s more! Log on to www.whirlwindusa.com/mpm4.html for all of the details!800.733.9473 | whirlwindusa.com

NEWSLETTERDOLBY EXITS LIVE SOUND BUSINESSDolby (San Francisco CA; www.dolby.com) has decided to exit the live sound business and, resultantly,announced the final production run of the Dolby Lake Processor (DLP), after which its manufacturewill be discontinued. The DLP has been employed by touring sound companies and performing artscenters to enhance systems performance. In a letter sent to distributors in September, Dolby remarkedon observing an accelerating shift toward integrated speaker processing, equalization and digital audionetworking into amplifiers and powered speakers. As a consequence, Dolby and Lab.gruppen (Kungsbacka,Sweden; www.labgruppen.com) forged an OEM licensing agreement to exploit this trend by creatingan amplifier that integrated DLP technology. The Lab.gruppen PLM 10000Q Powered LoudspeakerManagement system with “DLP inside” was launched, with more models to be introduced soon. Withthe success of this project, Dolby seeks to align its future corporate strategies. Distributors were givenuntil September 30 to calculate their needs and place final orders.Information and technical support for discontinued live sound products can be found at www.dolby.com/professional/Live_Sound.FOCUS ENHANCEMENTS TO DISTRIBUTE ISENZO DIGITAL SIGNAGE TECHNOLOGYIsenzo (Cape Town, South Africa; www.isenzo.com) has secured a strategic North American distributiondeal with Focus Enhancements Inc. (Campbell CA; www.focusinfo.com) that expands the availability ofIsenzo’s digital signage software in the US and Canada. The software was selected following extensivetesting and will be marketed as the Focus MM-1 Universal Media Manager to reflect the integrated software,hardware and technical support offering that will be available to end users through Focus’ channelpartner network.“Digital signage networks are complex systems, so a successful implementation depends on tight integrationof the many components, as well as local support,” said Isenzo co-founder/CEO Peter Robson.“Therefore, we are pleased that customers in North America are now able to experience our digitalsignage technology as part of a comprehensive offering, which is backed up by…Focus Enhancements.”BROADSIGN CLARIFIES RELATIONSHIP WITH PGWBroadSign International (Minnetonka MN; www.broadsign.com) has sought to clarify its relationshipwith Petters Group Worldwide (PGW, Minnetonka MN; www.pettersgroup.com), following inquiries relatedto PGW problems, including founder Tom Petters’ arrest on federal charges of fraud, money launderingand other counts. According to BroadSign’s statement, PGW used to be one of the main shareholdersin BroadSign USA, a sales and marketing company that was acquired by BroadSign Internationalin March 2006. BroadSign International was formed in January 2006. Since BroadSign International’screation, PGW has not funded any of its activities. PGW is a passive shareholder, with a minority stakeof less than 20%, which recently was further diluted by the addition of more active investors. PGW isnot represented on the company’s Board of Directors, nor is BroadSign International a PGW companyor a subsidiary of any PGW divisions. According to BroadSign, the recent events at PGW have had noeffect on any aspect of operations.TANDBERG CEASES TALKS WITH PRIVATE EQUITY GROUPTalks with a potential private equity bidder and Tandberg (New York NY; www.tandberg.net), a $2 billionvideoconferencing firm, have come to an end, according to Thomson Reuters. Citing current economicconditions, Tandberg, saying it had “become impossible to achieve acceptable pricing and financingconditions,” concluded discussions regarding a potential stake purchase or takeover bid. Tandberghad announced in August that an unnamed private equity firm had approached it with a potential offer.JP Morgan was named financial adviser.Receive NEWSLETTER earlier, with hot links and info via email! Click on “Join Our EmailNEWSLETTER” at www.soundandcommunications.com.October 2008

NEWSLETTERSTRATACACHE ORGANIZES $25 MILLION TECHNOLOGY ACQUISITION FUNDSTRATACACHE (Dayton OH; www.stratacache.com) has announced a $25 million acquisition fund targetingtechnology and media companies in the digital signage/digital out-of-home (OOH) media marketplace.“Although out-of-home advertising is one of the fastest growing segments in the industry, tighteningadvertising budgets worldwide are putting increased pressure on many early-stage companies,”noted CEO Chris Riegel. “Many venture-backed or privately held companies with considerable potentialwere expecting unrealistic growth in the short term and are now running into significant financial difficulty.”Marketing spending remains strong and is still expected to increase, but unsteady economicconditions have thwarted an immediate boon in the OOH marketplace.STRATACACHE’s ActiVia for Media digital signage offering manages the complete digital signage lifecyclefor multi-layered playlist creation, content distribution, monitoring and reporting of digital signagenetworks containing up to 250,000 concurrent devices. The firm seeks to grow its offerings and bolsterits emphasis on technology by adding complementary solutions and acquiring appropriately aligned enterprises.Companies interested in exploring acquisition by the company or strategic investment shouldvisit www.stratacache.com/acquisition.php.BARCO ESTABLISHES VLI BUSINESS UNITBarco (Rancho Cordova CA; www.barco.com) has formed the Video & Lighting Integration (VLI) BusinessUnit, a global entity created for systems integrators to meet the demand for integrated solutions inthe fixed-installation marketplace. Within the VLI Business Unit, Barco is creating a dedicated worldwidenetwork of channel partners. VLI will also incorporate all projection requirements for the corporate AVmarket segment. VLI’s product portfolio includes projection, image processing, indoor and outdoor LEDsolutions, and creative LED solutions, as well as lighting and show control products, as provided viaBarco’s recent acquisition of High End Systems (Austin TX; www.highend.com).VLI channel partners will have exclusive access to Barco’s centralized sales, service and channel supportnetwork, which translates to one contact point for products, 24/7 technical support, in-house technicians,spare parts and quick turnaround for repairs. A comprehensive program also includes lead generation,pre- and post-sales support, proposal and project support, training and marketing resources.Dana Corey, VLI vice president, offered exclusive comments to Sound & Communications: “This allows[commercial systems integrators] to align one brand with one customer, in the sense that we’re offeringa portfolio of products, ranging from signal management to display, in the channel,” he said. “It allowsyou, as an integrator, to centralize your activities around one brand….If there’s a problem with thesystem itself, instead of calling three manufacturers with three different products, you’re calling onemanufacturer. It’s all centralized out of Sacramento.”LISTEN TO DISTRIBUTE DIS CONFERENCING SOLUTIONS IN CANADAListen Technologies Corp. (Bluffdale UT; www.listentech.com) and Danish Interpretation Systems (DIS, Copenhagen,Denmark, www.dis.cc) have forged an agreement granting exclusive distributorship of DIS conferencingsolutions in Canada to Listen, effective January 1, 2009, and including DIS’ digital conferencing,discussion and digital IR products. In January 2008, Listen began distributing DIS’ conferencing productsin the United States. The conferencing systems will round out Listen’s FM and infrared portfolio in Canadafor offering solutions for language interpretation, assistive listening, tour group and soundfield.CLEARONE REVEALS FINAL RESULTS OF TENDER OFFERClearOne (Salt Lake City UT; www.clearone.com) has announced the final results of its modified Dutchauction tender offer, which expired on September 16. ClearOne has accepted for purchase 1,342,620shares of its common stock at a price of $5.00 per share, for a total cost, including fees, of about$6.75 million. These shares represent approximately 13% of shares outstanding. With completion ofthe tender offer, ClearOne has approximately 8,888,000 shares of common stock outstanding.COMPILED BY DAN FERRISI AND DAVID A. SILVERMAN10Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

Are LCD projectorsprone to burn-in?Many presentation slides have a company logo in the sameMany position presentation every slide. slides This have could a company spell trouble logo in for the an same LCD dataposition projector, on even every for slide. some This of could the newest spell trouble models. for That an logo LCD could dataprojector, burn into even the LCD for some panels of making the newest it apparent models. no That matter logo what’s couldburn on the into screen. the LCD This panels can occur making it as apparent little as two no matter hours. what’s And, likeon a the sunburn, screen. it could This can last occur longer in than as little you’d as like. two DLP hours. Projectors And, likea are sunburn, virtually it could immune last to longer burn-in, than offering you’d a like. clear, DLP sharp Projectors picture,are even virtually after years immune of extended to burn-in, usage. offering Make a clear, sure sharp you offer picture, DLPeven projectors after years that have of extended a lower usage. total cost Make of ownership, sure you offer are DLP easy toprojectors sell and can that stand have the a lower test of total time. cost Save of ownership, your customers are easy from tosell burn-in and can and stand save the sunscreen test of time. for Save your your next customers vacation fromburn-in and save the sunscreen for your next vacationLearn more about the advantages of DLPLearn at www.dlp.com.more about the advantages of DLPat www.dlp.com.Filter-free DLPFilter-free projectors DLP have aprojectors lower total have cost alower total cost• No burn-in.• NoMostburn-in.DLP projectors don’t• Most require DLP filters projectors that must don’t berequire cleaned filters and changed that must becleaned regularly. and changed• regularly. Virtually no color decay or• Virtually “yellowing” no color of the decay image or“yellowing” over extended of the periods image ofover usage. extended periods ofusage.Hundreds of DLP projector models areHundreds available of from DLP these projector and other models manufacturers:areavailable from these and other manufacturers:©2008 Texas Instruments, Inc. The platform bar and DLP ® logo are registered trademarks of Texas Instruments.Texas Instruments is traded publicly on the NYSE® under the symbol TXN.©2008 Texas Instruments, Inc. The platform bar and DLP ® logo are registered trademarks of Texas Instruments.Texas Instruments is traded publicly on the NYSE ® under the symbol TXN.

Real People. Real Close.The Da-Lite Difference.Sometimes an e-mail or phone call just doesn’t cut it. Sometimes you need a real expert, real fast. In the AV industrythis is known as a Da-Lite Sales Consultant. Armed with more projection screen knowledge, more product selectionsand more answers, these pros are out there providing AV dealers, systems consultants and architects the best inprojection screen solutions.How do these super consultants do it? They are all strategically located throughout North America. And they areall CTS certified and most are LEED accredited. Our hands-on approach means you get the most focused support in

the AV industry. Need an onsite visit to confirm specifications - they’re there.Need additional oversight on a large installation – just call. You’ll get a realknowledgeable, real person – that’s the Da-Lite Promise.For a free catalog and screenrecommendations, call toll free orvisit us online.1-800-622-3737www.da-lite.com/difference

The Electronic LeashI don’t need it…or do I?By Gary Kayye, CTSI remember the exact day I startedwearing my electronic leash. Backin my days at Extron, we launched24-hour technical support for ourdealers...something they still have.Well, we were a very small companyback then and I was the firstto wear the leash because we wereonly a handful in technical or salessupport. Feeling like a doctor on call,I wore my first pager home in late1989.For years after that, I was in therotation to wear the beeper home,on a monthly or bi-monthly basis, forone week at a time. What was coolwas that, 99% of the time, literally,you could simply solve the caller’safter-hours support problem/questionwith a simple non-technical answer. Ifelt like a hero, as do, I am sure, all ofthose who handle late-night calls fromdesperate techies who just need asolution to a perplexing problem.Then, in 1992, I graduated to a cellphone that was just on all the time.At Extron, we would simply forwardthe late-night calls to individual cellphones, depending on who was onduty. It was awesome because itmeant that I had a cell phone oneweek a month; remember, this wasthe early 1990s and not everyone hadone back then.I got my first PDA-phone (the PalmTreo) in 2003, and became addicted.I purchased my Treo and now myphone could do email, browse theweb (well, sort of) and carry all mycontacts wherever I went.But, I wanted more.I wanted better web browsing, morebattery life, a better phone, a lighterTreo, a better keyboard, a calculatorand much more. I kept upgrading myTreo, but it just never delivered all thatI wanted.Then came iPhone. In 2007, I waswowed by it. It did all the Treo did,but better. Better graphics, betterphone, better features. Everythingwas better. I am addicted to mobileweb browsing, reading news 24 hoursa day, checking my email every 15minutes or so, sending text messagesand I even found myself checking theweather all the time.But, I still wanted more.So, I got iPhone 2.0. I love it. Ithas everything the original iPhonehad, only it’s faster. And, now, for theiPhone 2.0, Apple offers thousandsof free applications that include stufflike expense tracking, a secret zerooutdirectory (a phone directory thattells you backdoor ways to get to humanswhen calling big companies thathave automated attendants) and evenan application that turns your phoneinto a flashlight!Wow!But, I am still not satisfied. I wantmore.Ridiculous, huh?Last week, I dropped my phone in aswimming pool and—poof—nothing.No contacts, no calendar, no iPod,no flashlight. Heck, all of a sudden,I didn’t even have a phone! Poof...orshould I say, splash.I was in a panic. I didn’t know whatto do. I knew there were still lines forthe iPhone, so just running out to geta new one wasn’t going to happen.Not to mention all the time it wouldtake me to re-initialize my phone so itis way more than a phone.So, what did I do?Nothing. That’s right, nothing. Itwas a Friday and I decided to wait itout and head over to Apple when Icouldn’t stand it anymore.And, you know what I found out?I don’t need to check my email every15 minutes. I didn’t need to knowthe weather for that day. I didn’t needto look up a phone number. Heck, Ididn’t even have a phone. And, I actuallyfound that refreshing, too.I was without an electronic leash forfour whole days...and you know what?No one seemed to notice. And, aftertwo days, I didn’t notice, either. I rodemy bike an extra 20 miles that weekend.Did a 10-mile run that Sundayinstead of my regular run, and hungout. Just hung out.I have decided to try this moreoften. So, don’t call me on the weekendsanymore. And, if you do, don’texpect me to answer the phonebecause I may choose not to.Got it? Good! I am serious! Seriously!!!Hang on a second; my editor justcalled asking where my column is. Ihave to finish this as quickly as possibleand email it to him before my (letme check my calendar) 3:00pm conferencecall….nGary Kayye, a member of Sound & Communications’ Technical Council, is principal of KayyeConsulting. He was InfoComm International’s 2003 Educator of the Year, and NSCA namedhim 2007 Instructor of the Year. Send comments to him at gkayye@testa.com.14 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

Elusive AssetsUnderstanding your company’s greatest value.By David McNuttI find business fascinating, I alwayshave. Since my first days in broadcastinguntil now, I have been intriguedwith how business operates,how people make up business, howmanagers manage, why businessesfail, how businesses become successful,what makes great businessestick, large or small.The first business I worked in wasa three-kilowatt FM broadcast stationin Chattanooga TN. The broadcastingbusiness model seemed to me,then, very simple. The creativeproduct is entertainment: music,personality, news, talk, communityservice. The revenue product is advertising:Unit of sales is 30 seconds;the perceived value dictates the unitrate. The business objective is to sellenough units at a high enough ratein order to cover overhead and debt,and earn a profit.As a young sales professional, Ithought I had the world by the tail.We were a fresh new FM in a competitive,AM-dominated market. Wehad a great programmer who had ahead for music, artists and listeningpreferences. We stole two great onairtalents from other stations whoknew what the new science of musicrotation was all about. Great voices,good production facilities, enthusiasticsales team and market buzz.It is worth exploring what yourcompany does better thanothers do, and delivering that asa mainstay value proposition.I finally got an appointment withthe largest ad agency in town andspent two days preparing my presentation.Your first agency pitchin broadcast sales is like having anaudience with the Pope: You knowwhat you’d really like to say, but youdare not. Besides, there were threeof them in the room, and just oneof me. So, I dove in with charts andoverlays and units and rates and coveragemaps and so much blah-blahthat, after 20 minutes had passed, Ijust knew I had them surrounded.Time for the Trial Close: So, howdoes that sound to you?The agency partner didn’t waste asecond to smile a little; he told me itsounded like a whole lot of hot air.First, all I talked about was the station;I hadn’t said a word about theagency or its clients, especially thebiggest one, the largest advertiserin the area, which I really wanted. Ihadn’t once mentioned what we weregoing to do for its customers, its clients.And second, he told me nobodylistened to my station anyway.I’ve learned a little more aboutsales since that early, brief puff ofsmoke in the agency conferenceroom, but what I learned the mostabout was marketing. What thatagency partner wanted the most forhis client was the most elusive assetof my station: my listener. For thenext several weeks, we all put ouryoung heads together to figure outhow we could deliver our listenersto his biggest client. Who were ourlisteners, why did they listen, whatwere they like, what did they do,how were we talking to them, wouldthey respond to us; these were allquestions we had to answer.Then, slowly, we began to form anidea of how we could deliver our listenersto the customer. We exploredgames, promotions, gimmicks,stunts, public relations spoofs,prizes, lotteries...you name it. Wesettled on the best idea to influenceour small, but enthusiastic, audienceand then went back to the agency.I felt much different going in thesecond time. I felt calm, confident,committed, armed with knowledge.(I also took someone else with me!)This time, I wanted the first thingthe agency to say to be “yes,” andsay it quickly. So, I started with onequestion: If I could deliver 50 peoplefrom among my station’s listenersto your client’s business on Fridayafternoon, half of whom would bewilling to spend $20,000 or morepurchasing your client’s products,would you let me do it? He said “yes”and we explained how.(continued on page 99)A member of Sound & Communications’ Technical Council, David McNutt has morethan 35 years of experience, covering live sound engineering, marketing for well-known manufacturers,audio system design and consultation, and fixed installation contracting. McNuttholds a Masters in Telecommunications and an MBA in Marketing and Strategy. He can bereached at dmcnutt@testa.com.16 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

Denver’s Largest DomeMile Hi Church blends striking aestheticswith functional AV outfitting.By Dawn AllcotMile Hi Church, a Religious Science/Scienceof Mind church in DenverCO, more than doubled its worshipcapacity with the construction of a new1600-seat sanctuary. The impressivestructure is the third largest buildingon the church’s campus, and thelargest dome building in metropolitanDenver. The new construction alsoleaves room for further expansion,with the addition of balcony seatingplanned for the future.The AV aspects of the project,which cost about $400,000, add webcastingand broadcast capabilities,along with cross-campus distributionof AV to the old sanctuary, which isstill in use, the lobby, green rooms,and infant and toddler rooms.To assist in the design of the systems,the church called on DenverCO-based D.L. Adams Associates,Inc., a full-service design and consultingfirm. Ford Audio-Video Systems,Inc., won the bid to completethe installation. The full-service designand installation firm, founded asFord Audio & Acoustics, has been inbusiness since 1973 and has officesin Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Dallas, LasVegas, Austin, Houston and Denver.The project team for Mile Hi Church,out of the Denver office, includedAndrew Welker, project engineer,Acoustical clouds help keep sound from reverberating throughthe dome-shaped structure.Jon Stella, project manager, and WillSchmetzer, job superintendent.“It was exciting to work on thischurch,” said Dan Purdom, projectengineer at Ford AV. “The churchwent all out. They have an incredible9½-foot grand piano with an extraoctave of keys, an organ, a YamahaM7CL digital mixing console, a JBLline array, two 16-foot-wide rearprojection screens….They wantedtop-of-the-line, state-of-the-art AVsystems. On staff, they have professionalmusicians who play everyweek; they wanted to make suretheir message is heard.”The church holds one Wednesdaynight service and three Sundaymorning services, as well as memorials,weddings and special events inthe new space. Each service usesa full praise band, with vocalists,guitars, horns and cello, plus thepiano and organ. Shortly after thenew sanctuary’s opening in Spring2008, Kenny Loggins played there.The new sanctuary holds 1600 worshippers,nearly double the capacityof the former, 850-seat space. “Inaddition to needing more seats, wewanted a bigger stage in the newbuilding, better acoustics, bettersound and video…all those things,”said Nathan Marschall, the church’saudio coordinator.Purdom added that cross-campusdistribution of AV was also importantto the client, and a Crestron controlsystem and Extron matrix switcherhelped make that happen.The former sanctuary had feedbackissues, with mics located directlyunder the main PA. Marschallsaid that one of the primary needsin the new sanctuary was goodacoustics, which were absent in theformer space. The new dome-shapedsanctuary, which became one of theAll photos: James A. FordDawn Allcot is a freelance writer specializing in the audiovisual and health and fitness industries.18 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

Look into a whole new idea in poke-thru design.Increased Capacity Innovative Cover Assembly Recessed Devices 2-Hour Fire RatingIntroducing the Evolution Series A/V Poke-Thru Device.It’s bigger than any other poke-thru device. Available in 6" and 8" configurations,it has twice the capacity of current designs. More capacity means you can havepower and data, without compromising A/V capabilities. And an intumescentmaterial maintains the fire rating of a 2-hour classified floor – new constructionor retrofit. Recessed connectivity is designed to accept Extron ® Electronics AAPand MAAP Series devices. A die-cast aluminum cover that opens a full 180° –with ingenious slide doors – keeps wires, connections, and people safe. TheEvolution A/V device is a whole new idea in poke-thru design, with more capacity,and versatility. Look into it at www.wiremold.com/evolution.October 2008 19

Mile Hi Church’s new facility is the third largest building on the church’s campus,and the largest dome building in metropolitan Denver CO.project’s most distinctive and aestheticallyappealing features, createdthe first challenge for the consultantand contractor.“An elliptical shape tends to want tofocus sound,” said Stephanie Adams-Ball, senior project consultant for D.L.Adams. “The oval or elliptical shapeis integral to the church’s religiousbeliefs. So, as much as the acousticsside doesn’t appreciate that shape, wehad to work with it.”Ceiling clouds backed with fiberglassinsulation, along with K13treatment sprayed onto the actualdome, absorb some of the sound.Most sound that hits the ceiling orwalls of the dome gets absorbed intothe K13; remaining sound reflectionsare absorbed by the insulation on theback of the ceiling clouds. The ceilingclouds provide diffusion, and create apattern in the ceiling that reflects thegeometry and architecture held sacredby the Science of Mind religion.The JBL line array’s placementalso played a large role in creating apositive acoustical environment. Accordingto Adams-Ball, who workedunder D.L. Adams vice president EdLogsdon on the project, the JBL VTsystem gave the client “a lot of bangfor the buck.” The boxes sit above thestage area, with eight VT4887 ADP-AN speakers and two VT4881 ADP-AN subs in each of two arrays.Purdom cites some of the keyfeatures of the system: “This is a selfpoweredsystem, so we didn’t needindependent amplifiers. The Crowndrive is built in. There’s onboard EQand DSP, and they are addressable onthe network through the system architecturesoftware from the Harmangroup.” Harman Professional’s HiQnetpermits the installer to access any Harmancomponents of the sound systemremotely through the network.Dual Renkus-Heinz SGX42 speakersfunction as front fills, placed behinda metallic grille underneath thelip of the stage. These are poweredby Crown CTs-8200USP/CN ampsand use dbx DriveRack 4820 DSPs.After installation, the integrator discoveredthat the line arrays rattled atcertain low frequencies. JBL recom-20 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

All Rights Reserved © Stewart Filmscreen 2008Building SolutionsCNN Communication Center, New York, NYCustom Curved AeroPlex Screen: 7’9” x 24’Systems Integrator: McCann Systems, LLC.Only Stewart Filmscreen had the right solution with its customaspect ratio 24-foot curved screenNews broadcasting has always required state-of-the-art technologyto bring stories from around the world into our living rooms.When CNN was designing the new Communications Center in theTime Warner Building in the heart of New York City, they wanted touse a large video screen to serve as the back drop for popular programmingincluding American Morning and CNN Election Center.Only Stewart Filmscreen had the right solution with its customaspect ratio 24-foot curved screen. After rigorous testing by AVspecialists that studied color and resolution using studio lightingand cameras, it was the Stewart screen that offered the bestperformance, features and flexibility.There is no project too large or too impossible for StewartFilmscreen. Even though we are an innovative projection screenmanufacturer, our strength is in the development of optimized,breakthrough solutions that bring your commercial projects to life.Our qualified staff of professional engineers works with designers,architects, contractors and systems integrators to seamlesslyintegrate technology in the creation of the most unforgettablecommercial, entertainment and demonstration spaces.For additional information on Stewart Filmscreen: www.stewartfilmscreen.comC O M M E R C I A LOctober 2008 21

mended a solution, and the integratoradded custom-sized felt strips to thehardware. “The felt-wrapped hardwaresignificantly reduced the rattling atlow frequencies, such as music fromthe organ,” Purdom said.The array is designed with thechurch’s future growth in mind. Duringa second phase of construction,five years or more down the line, thechurch plans to add a balcony, increasingoverall seating capacity to aboutThe larger stage in Mile Hi Church’ssanctuary gives the church more space,permitting it to showcase a full praiseband, featuring vocalists, guitars, hornsand cello, plus a grand piano and organ.A pair of 16-foot-wide rear-projection screens flanks the stage.2100. Although the top two boxes ineach array are aimed at the futurebalcony area, right now, that space isa solid wall, which created undesirablereflections. “We turned off themids and high on those two boxes, butleft the low mids for aiming considerations,”Purdom explained. “After wetrimmed the high end of those boxes,it diminished the reflections.”A Yamaha M7CL digital mixerhandles front-of-house sound for thechurch, several steps up from the facility’sformer analog consoles. Formerly,separate consoles were required forPA and recording. The M7CL handlesmixing duties for both on differentlayers. Marschall said that members ofhis tech staff and he attended a localYamaha training class, and Ford AValso provided in-house training.With the larger sanctuary andexpanded sound and video capabilities,Mile Hi Church also expandedits technical staff from two full-timepersonnel (Marschall and his videocounterpart, Joel Siemion) to eightpaid staff members and two volunteers.Marschall admitted that it took“some time and effort” to get thestaff up to speed on the console,but using Yamaha’s Studio ManagerSoftware made it easier. “It was abig help for my staff members toopen the files at home, on their owncomputers, and see how everythingis set up on the console without havingto sit at the console. There’s avisual reference for them to view andlearn at their convenience.” Usingthe presets in the system also makesit easier for the audio coordinator tochange the stage configuration foreach service.This was one of the AV industry’sfirst applications to include Aviom’sPro64 in-ear monitoring systemwith the 6416m mic input module.The system also expands thechurch’s capabilities and helps makeMarschall’s life easier, too. “It allowsthe band to adjust its monitor mix toits needs quickly and easily, withoutasking me to do it. I can concentratemore on mixing the house,” he said.The system includes the Pro64digital snake and two of the company’snew 6416i line-level mic inputmodules, providing 16 balancedline-level analog inputs for the audionetwork. Audio content from themixers is routed to the network fromthe M7CL through 6416Y2 A-Netcards. The ASI A-Net Systems Interfacetranslates the A-Net data to thePro16 format used by the personalmixers.Rounding out the sound systemsin the sanctuary is an LT-800-072Assistive Listening Transmitter fromListen Technologies.The video system rivals the newaudio system in the sanctuary interms of quality and capabilities.Dual 16-foot rear projection Da-Litescreens sit at either side of the stagefor image magnification and PowerPointpresentations. Projectionrooms carved out behind the stagecontain all the necessary equipment,including two Barco SLM R12+Performers projectors with BarcoR9842040 lenses. Purdom noted thatthe client found both the space and22 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

Real World Solutions by SamsungWhere there is a digital signage challenge, there is a Samsung solution.When the Hawaiian Tropic Zone at Planet Hollywood Casino in Las Vegaswas looking for a display wall to enhance their décor and the diningexperience for their customers, they turned to Samsung for one of thelargest installed display walls in North America. Real time, real worldsolutions. To read more about this installation, download the casestudy at www.samsung.com/proav©2008 Samsung Electronics America, Inc. All rights reserved. Samsung is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.All product and brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Image courtesy of HawaiianTropic Zone, Las Vegas, NV. Screen images simulated.October 2008 23

the budget for rear-projection systemsbecause of the brighter imagesin high-ambient-light situations.Three Sony BRC-300 digital pantilt-zoomcameras mounted in differentareas of the sanctuary handleimage capture for video distributionand i-Mag.A Crestron control system, housedin an upstairs control room, operatesan Extron Crosspoint 450 Plus 1616HRGBHV matrix switcher, routed toMagenta Research MultiView UTXPRO ProRack-Monitor (M1016)transmitters and MultiView AK1000high-resolution receivers, sending afeed to the projectors from any of thecameras, a laptop computer at the stageor a laptop in the control room, whichhandles PowerPoint presentations.An Extron VTT001 PC RGBHVtransmitter and VTE001 receiversend and receive feeds from thecontrol room to a confidence monitorin the center of the stage.The control room exists as thehome base for all AV and lightingProRack-House (H1020)Detailed Product Info Available atwww.apb-dynasonics.comcontrol. All three cameras are controlledremotely via a Sony RMBR-300 camera controller, whereas threeclient-supplied monitors receive feedsfrom each of the cameras.A Clear-Com MS-232 IntercomSystem runs from the control roomto speaker stations residing at FOH,each projection room, the greenroom, and multiple locations on thestage and in the catwalks.Audio monitoring is accomplishedin the control room by means ofa pair of Tannoy Reveal Active AVmonitors.Campus-wide distribution of services,with audio streaming on theweb and potential for streaming videoin the future, along with broadcast, inthe future, represents the final pieceof the campus-wide installation projection.“We used to have a programthat ran in Denver for 16 years, andwe’ve wanted to bring that back,”Marschall said. “We’re looking at howto make that happen again in the nearfuture.”For now, most areas of the campusreceive live AV feeds of services.Ford AV installed 10 SoundTubeCM500i ceiling speakers in the restrooms,green room and infant/toddlerareas. The lobby features RSI800pendant ceiling speakers. These arepowered by Crown CTS-600UPS/CN70-volt amps.The integrator ran twisted pairwiring into the lobby, children’s area,green rooms and the original sanctuaryin preparation for video expansion.An Extron FOX 500 TX/RXwas provided for routing video to thecommunity room, whereas additionalExtron transmitters and receiverssend signals to the lobby, children’sarea and green rooms.After the main project was completed,the client added three 50-inchSamsung plasma displays in the lobbyand 37-inch flat screens from Sharp inthe children’s area and green rooms.“Having complete distributionthroughout the sanctuary, as well asthe rest of the facility, was importantto the client,” Purdom said. “Everyone,wherever they are on campus,can now watch the services.” n24 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.comAPB_SandC_HalfIsl.indd 14/4/08 8:34:31 PM

Help CobraNet ® Work Smarterwith A/D conversion at the wallCobraNet revolutionized audio distribution inlarge venues. However, if you’ve used CobraNet,you’ve run into a couple of “gotcha’s”.Since CobraNet is based on multiple virtualbundles of 8 audio channels, it gets too expensiveto dedicate an entire bundle to a wall platethat only needs a couple of audio channels.Mongoose and RAD wall plates solve theseproblems (along with a few others) by convertingaudio to or from digital at the wall and transportingit over CAT 5 cable. It allows you to routethe digital audio to or from CobraNet and aggregateaudio channels for full bundle utilization.Mongoose provides significant reductions in cost,labor and set up: RADs (Remote Audio Devices) mount to USstandard electrical boxes and convert analog audioto digital or digital to analog. CAT 5 cable instead of more expensive mic cables. Automatic self-testing of cables and remotes. Eliminates EMI and ground loops. Allows hot-swapping of RAD wall plates. Crimp-on 8P8C (RJ-45) connectors rather thansoldering XLRs.Log onto www.rane.com to see how Mongoose canmake your CobraNet system work smarter and readabout additional solutions.CAT 5 cable, up to 150 metersConnects to CobraNet ®16 channels 16 channelsCobraNet is a trademark of Cirrus Logic Inc.

Thinking Out LoudHow the Beijing Olympics ceremonies will affect house of worship presentations.By David Lee Jr., PhDThe opening and closing ceremoniesat the Beijing Olympics wereamazing. The concepts, designs,sheer numbers of people involvedand technologies used exceededany presentation that I have everseen, and most likely exceeded anypresentation the world has everexperienced.The concepts applied and the imagescreated during the Olympic ceremonieshas nearly rendered obsoletealmost every idea and conceptualprocess that I have ever employed.My spirit is rejuvenated. I am now anew creature. I am a new convert ofprolific presentation thinking. I haveseen a new light and I have beenbaptized with the fire found in thesenew revelations for using people andmedia for telling stories.I had similar experiences as ateenager in 1977, when I saw StarWars for the first time, and when Iheard Eddie Van Halen play his guitar.Many of us recognize these twoproducts as turning points in the historyof filmmaking and music making.Many filmmakers and musiciansthrew out their antiquated productionprocesses and either embracednew approaches or merely copiedLucas and Van Halen. I believe theBeijing ceremonies will be seen as aturning point for presentations andpresentation technologies.As I continue to process theirI have seen a new light andbeen baptized with the firefound in these new revelationsfor using people and mediafor telling stories.spectacle, I wonder how the BeijingOlympic ceremonies will impactsmall- and large-scale presentationsin corporate and house of worshipsettings.Take a little journey with me.Visualize the Olympic opening ceremonies,where a massive amountof participants formed circles andshapes very quickly. Recall the armyof people who beat those drums. Anddon’t forget the acrobats who flew effortlesslythrough the air. All of thisoccurred in perfect synchronization.Now, recall England’s presentationduring the closing ceremonies, duringwhich a troupe of actors dancedaround a red double-decker bus.Compared to the Chinese efforts, theBritish presentation, unfortunately,was noticeably weak and outdated.Here in the US, we have experiencedcreative live events on smalland large scales. The pinnacle ofour national large presentations maybe the Super Bowl halftime showthat, until now, had been reasonablyimpressive. I wonder if the Olympicceremonies have placed new pressureson the Super Bowl producersto ramp up the halftime event to newlevels beyond merely spending hugesums on a big-name musical act.I also wonder how the Olympicswill affect presentations in house ofworship settings. There certainly isfresh inspiration for worship leadersto communicate more effectively usingfresh ideas.The Chinese certainly have raisedthe presentation bar, skyscraperhigh! I suspect that many of youwill say that the Chinese had a hugeamount of money and an unlimitednumber of talented participants tomake this spectacle a success. Andthat is true. Regardless of moneyresources, however, as a producer,I marvel when I think about theceremony producer who started witha blank slate and ultimately visualizedsuch a spectacular presentation.I am also in awe when I think aboutthe preparation, the rehearsals, theskills of the people, the technologiesused and how they were used duringthese ceremonies.Again, let’s think about that fora moment. If money and resourceswere no object, could we createsomething that original, that compelling,that beautiful and that faroutside of the proverbial box?I believe we can. I believe that theinspiration drawn from the ceremonieshas sparked new ideas that willenable us to reach higher levels ofpresentation rapidly. In fact, newthought is already permeating largeand small scales of presentationproduction.I know firsthand that the Beijingceremonies have caused a majortheme park to scrap designs thatwere in the works and start fresh(continued on page 99)David Lee Jr., PhD, CEO of Lee Communication Inc., Orlando FL, is a licensed ministerand has more than 25 years of experience as a systems integrator. He is a member of Sound& Communications’ Technical Council. Send comments to dlee@testa.com.26 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

unmatched impactThe Panasonic 103-inch Professional Plasma.When you want to impress the most demanding guests,nothing compares to our industry-leading 103-inch plasma.Its 7 ½ ft. by 4 ft. of viewing space delivers spectacular,life-size images in amazing 1080p detail – with deep,rich blacks and natural, true-to-life color so impressivethat it’s the screen of choice for many broadcaststudios. And with LodgeNet certification and Pro:Idiomcompatibility, guests can experience the premium HDprogramming and PPV content that’s quickly becomingthe standard in the world’s finest hotels and resorts.Thanks to a service life of up to 100,000 hours, a 3-yearwarranty*, and no lamps to replace, our 103-inchplasma is the definition of high performance and lowmaintenance. And it’s backed by our world-class PlasmaConcierge program that includes a toll-free hotline andpriority on-site service.For the widest range of pro plasma sizes, includingexclusive 37" and 42" hospitality models with integratedstand and speakers, go with the name that gives yourguests another reason to come back – Panasonic.Create the ultimate guest experience withAmerica’s #1 professional plasmas.** Visit us atpanasonic.com/proplasma or call 1.800.528.8601.Panasonic Pro Plasma built for the speed of business*All Panasonic 103-inch Plasmas come with a 3-year warranty. A 2-year warranty is provided for all other Panasonic Professional Plasma Displays. **TFC info February 2008.© 2008 Panasonic Professional Display Company

Demystifying Sustainability And LEEDHow important is LEED to AV?By Tony Warner, CTS-D, CSI CDT, LEED APPerhaps more than any other topic,green issues surround us today,both at work and at home. It seemsthat virtually all manufacturers arenow weaving green text into theirmarketing campaigns in some formor another. It’s difficult to have a discussionabout trends in AV withouthearing the terms “sustainability,”“green” or “LEED.” Although elevatingpublic awareness is undoubtedlypositive for everyone, there continuesto be a lot of confusion andmisinformation surrounding theseissues in the industry.All of these terms essentially referto how eco-friendly a product or projectis. Sustainability and green areboth generic terms suggesting thatwhich is environmentally friendlyand conserves resources. In the builtenvironment, “sustainable” tends tobe used more formally and “green”tends to be more colloquial. The bigmisconceptions arise when we startto refer to LEED.LEED stands for “Leadership inEnergy and Environmental Design,”and represents both a certificationand an accreditation. LEED certificationis given to buildings; LEED accreditationis given to individuals andis indicated by LEED AP (accreditedprofessional). Project certification ismanaged by the US Green BuildingCouncil (USGBC), whereas professionalaccreditation is now managedAs an industry, we need tobecome better organized andfocused with our sustainablemessage.by the spin-off organization, GreenBuilding Certification Institute(GBCI).Currently, there are four certificationlevels buildings can achieve:LEED Certified, LEED Silver, LEEDGold and LEED Platinum, based onhow many sustainable elements areincluded in the design as recognizedin the USGBC rating systems. Thereare about 10 different LEED ratingsystems specifically tailored towardproject type. Some of the more commonare LEED-NC (new construction),LEED-CI (commercial interiors)and LEED for Schools.Individuals can earn the LEEDAP accreditation by taking an examfor any one of the various ratingsystems, but there is no delineationonce the accreditation is achieved.There are several incentives to pursueLEED project certification. Thefirst and most obvious is simply tobe good stewards of the environmentwith building practices. Althoughoften there are higher upfront coststo achieve some of the sustainablebenchmarks, research shows thatthey can be offset by the long-termsavings in efficiency and conservation.Additionally, today, manybuilding owners and some municipalitiesrequire that all new buildingsachieve a certain LEED certification.At this point, little of the LEEDrating system is influenced by thecommunications fields. There is aheavy focus on such things as sitework and selection, water efficiency,energy conservation and indoor airquality. There are a few limited areasin which AV control systems couldpotentially contribute to a few credits,but they certainly would not bethe primary catalyst toward achievingthose credits.Some may argue that control systemscould be used to help automatea building’s MEP systems and contributetoward energy conservationcredits, but it’s a stretch to explainwhy that would be a more appropriatechoice than using one of themainstays in building automation.Lighting control probably stands asthe greatest opportunity in the currentstructure, but even it representsa small part of the rating system.Choosing AV equipment that ispower friendly can also be a contributor,but the energy conservationcredits look at percentage savingsacross the entire building, so thiscan be difficult to quantify. Currently,two innovation credits are availablefor new ideas in sustainability,but there is no shortage of ways to(continued on page 100)Tony Warner, CTS-D, CSI CDT, LEED AP, is responsible for managing RTKL’s AV andacoustics practices within the firm’s Special Systems Design Group. Warner has played aninstrumental role in the development of the Audiovisual Design Reference Manual by InfoCommand BICSI, currently chairs InfoComm’s CTS-D Scheme committee and has beena leading supporter of InfoComm’s recent green initiatives. He is a member of Sound &Communications’ Technical Council.28 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

Introducingthe NewA ECOMPACTS E R I E SDirectivity Flexibility ConnectivityEvidence that high fidelity and size are not mutually exclusive.Expanding upon JBL's premium AE series, these eight new compact speaker models present a truly exceptional soundexperience for the audiophile in you. The AE Compact family consists of high output, 2-way loudspeaker systems combiningflexibility with high fidelity. Ranging from an ultra-compact single 5.25" 2-way loudspeaker to a dual 8" loudspeakersystem offering two horn coverage pattern options, these systems are specifically designed to better serve the needs ofsystem designers worldwide.In addition to providing smooth, low-distortion sound, the AE Compact series is designed with multiple attachment points forultimate flexibility in application usage. Whether your installation needs call for the use of the optional U-bracket or aball-mount bracket AE Compact provides that flexibility. But flexibility doesn't stop there. AE Compact can also be used inportable applications and is equipped with attachment points for a stand mount accessory. All eight AE Compact modelsfeature dual NL4 connectors plus screw terminals.So no matter what your application is if you require high-fidelity, high-output, and flexibility in a compact loudspeakersystem then the AE Compact series is your solution.To find out more about AE Compact loudspeaker systems please visit jblpro.comAE SERIESCOMPACT MODELS© 2008 JBL Incorporated

Band Of BrothersCONTI Electronics, part of AXIS Group,equips the Great White North.By Dan FerrisiCrisp audio and sharp screens areindeed pervasive here in the UnitedStates, but AV’s ubiquity is equallymanifest in our friendly neighborto the north. However, given thatCanada is the largest country in thewestern hemisphere, its citizens’hunger for advanced technologyis more than any single firm couldsatiate. With that, enter AXIS GroupInc., a Canadian systems integrationconsortium that “divides andconquers” the market. The group iscomposed of 11 members, with officesin Vancouver, Calgary, Regina,Winnipeg, Toronto and Montreal,among other locales. CONTI ElectronicsLtd., our primary subject, isan AXIS Group member based in,and primarily serving, Vancouver,British Columbia.According to Colby Harder,CONTI’s president, “About 10 yearsago—before my time—a group ofowners met on a supplier trip andwere discussing how they couldcompete with some of the nationalplayers. They came up with the ideaof joining forces as a band of brothers,where we would help each otherservice different markets, sharecompetitive information and do somecompetitive marketing on a nationallevel in order to help generateleads.” With that, AXIS was born.CONTI has its own interestingAn integrated videoconferencing suite in the boardroom ofa Vancouver-based lumber company.back story: The company was createdin 1973 by a Swiss businessmanas a distribution arm for hiselectronic microchip business. Thebusinessman owned the firm for acouple of years; Harder’s father wasthe first employee, and he boughtthe business in 1975. “In the early1980s, we were in the computerbusiness. We were the first to bringCommodore 64 and other models toVancouver. And that, over the years,transformed into the business we’rein now, which is audiovisual integration,”revealed Harder.With yearly revenues exceeding$5 million and more than 50 projectsin a given six-month period,the company exudes success…andis now experiencing a growth tear.Dan Ferrisi is Sound & Communications’ Associate Editor.“Over 35 years, we’ve been a fairlystable company,” remarked Harder.However, he said, following directionalchanges and managementrestructuring, it has expanded fromabout 13 to 20 employees. “Andthat’s occurred in the last two tothree years,” he enthused.With respect to technology, CON-TI focuses on corporate presentationsystems, videoconferencingand digital signage. Despite considerableconversance with the audioportion of the business, the firmdoes not typically do large-scale PAsystems and the like. “We’re about90% corporate,” noted Harder, aheading under which he includeshealthcare. “Our school businessis predominantly K to 12. Those30 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

Endlesscable-bilitiesAudio or video. Analog or digital. Assemblies or bulk. No matterwhat you need cable-wise, we can hook you up. With virtuallyinfinite selections of connections, our service spans the globe. Forquality, performance and choice, the cable-bilities are endless.Visit www.kramermatrix.com or call 888-275-6311.In Canada visit www.kramercanada.ca or call 1-866-726-9921.©2008 Kramer Electronics, Ltd. All rights reserved.

CONTI prepared this concept photo for the second phase of a large digital signageproject on the subway system in Vancouver. This provides the client with an imageof the planned work.venues typically require interactivewhiteboards and projectors.” Askedabout house of worship installs, henoted, as compared to the US, themarket is smaller in Canada and nota significant part of the CONTI mix.Geographically, the firm primarilyserves British Columbia and Alberta—thetwo westernmost provinces.The company first pushed into digitalsignage three to four years ago,when clients began requesting it aspart of their systems. Now, accordingto Harder, CONTI’s expertise iscompetitive with any other Canadianprovider. The firm’s talent is showcasedby the digital signage systembeing used for SkyTrain, a BritishColumbia mass transit line.According to Harder, “Last year,we did three stations in the transitsystem, working with Lamar TransitAdvertising. They have an advertisingcontract with the transit authorityhere, so they invested in a digitalprogram that put 11 signs in as atrial. [The Lamar Commuter DigitalNetwork] allows them to distribute acombination of advertising informationand rider and safety informationout to people on train platforms andthe ferry platform here in Vancouver.”The program, which provedsuccessful, is being expanded.As technologies advance—oftenwith a commensurate increase in abstruseness—education,training andcredentialing have come to the fore.CONTI has attained Gold certificationin InfoComm’s Certified Audio-Visual Solutions Provider Program,which signifies that 75% of all sales,customer service and technicalstaff have and maintain InfoCommcertification.However—and despite an aggressivemarketing effort undertaken byInfoComm—Harder remarked mostclients do not fully apprehend sucha credential’s meaning. “It’s moreof a selling point than a marketingpoint,” he observed. “By that,I mean, when we get down to thenitty-gritty with a customer, we cansay, ‘You know we’re going to do thejob right, because we’re a Gold-certifiedintegrator.’ But it’s not so much32 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

This large-format digital sign and presentation system isbeing used by a video game development company.the case a client will come to us for that.”Asked to what he might credit his considerable success,Harder immediately recognized his staff, citing the team’stechnical and professional excellence. “It’s also notable,”he added, “that we’re one of the few firms actually to bebased in Vancouver, as opposed to based somewhere elsewith a Vancouver branch office. So, from a managementpoint of view, we have a much closer relationship withour employees. I like to think we foster a good workingenvironment that keeps our good people around.” This, ofcourse, is invaluable for a firm that invests in staff training;capricious tendencies to jump ship are counteractedby a fulfilling workplace.Continuing on the knowledge andeducation track, Harder emphasizedthe importance of comprehension ofIT principles. About 80% of his staffboasts experience in IT and networking,he said, adding, “That is essentialwhen we’re dealing with digitalsignage, because it’s all networked.”Clearly, the move toward networkcentricAV is not abating, nor is “convergence”a mere shibboleth tossedaround in industry circles.Asked to offer a “state of theunion” for our industry, Harderdiscerned an auspicious trend forintegrators in North America and,indeed, worldwide. “I think that AVhas become, at least in our area ofplay, i.e., corporate and education, aminimum standard for a lot of facilities,”he said. The change, comparedto five years ago, is remarkable. Ifsomebody was building an officespace then, AV was probably perceivedas optional or, worse, simplysuperfluous. “Now, they look at it asessential,” Harder confirmed. Multifariousfactors drive this, but HD inthe home, as well as “telepresencestyle”videoconferencing and digitalsignage’s surging popularity, cannotbe overlooked.Our industry transcends all geographicboundaries, a fact that isclearly apropos to systems integrators’wares, whose primary purposeis communication…whether acrossthe table or around the world. And,with CONTI Electronics and itsAXIS Group partners outfitting theGreat White North, one can be surethe “signs” for our collective futureremain bright.n

Long-term reliability and complete consistency is not a goalat Meyer Sound - it’s standard. The MM-4XP is the nextgenuine article. A self-powered version of the MM-4, theMM-4XP represents the evolution of our miniatureloudspeakers. With its impressive wide operating frequencyrange of 120 Hz to 18 kHz with very low distortion andmaximum peak SPL of 113 dB, the MM-4XP exhibits thesame high intelligibility, flat frequency and phase responsefor which Meyer Sound loudspeakers are known. Smallenough to sit in the palm of your hand, with a face that’s4” x 4” and a mere 4.2 lbs, the MM-4XP can be tuckedaway discreetly amongst the architectural details of anyspace-sensitive facility. With so many benefits, it is nowonder the MM-4XP’s fans are true blue.m e y e r s o u n d c a n b e f o u n d o n t h e w e b a t w w w. m e y e r s o u n d . c o m a n d i n t h e w o r l d ’s b e s t v e n u e s

Predator Under The Surface ConclusionMore examples of how ‘piranhas’ can devour your business.By Robin ParkerEditor’s Note: In July, the authorintroduced his “piranhas” theory. Lastmonth, he detailed some examples. Weconclude his discussion here. We’resure other readers can add to thislist. If you would like to contributeyour version of the piranhas that can“attack” your business, send them todsilverman@testa.com.• The wireless remote antennaeare to be mounted where? No, inthe rack isn’t really a good idea.Will special hardware adapters ormounting plates be required? Whattype of cable and connectors will berequired? If you don’t think thereare a lot of different connectors outthere, just pick up a Comprehensiveor BTX catalog some time. Hours offascinating reading.• The contact said we would takecare of getting power to the rack.You do know we’re not electricians,don’t you? There are laws about thissort of thing.• Are blank rack panels being provided?They do help cover up unusedspaces. You do know what “blanks”are, don’t you?• Have all system components beenreviewed by engineering for the correctconnectors and proper interconnections?Do you think that everytruck in our fleet has every connectorand patch cable ever made? Ihave a crisp $20 bill that says “nope.”I’d love to tell you about theexperienced installer whoattempted to install a micon a stainless steel counterusing a power drill…runningbackward!• Is there a location to dispose oftrash? Has this time been considered?• Is there a spare tire in the truck?Gas? Do all technicians have a keyto the truck? Are all installers legalto drive? Do they have your homephone number? (That comes inhandy so, late at night, they can callyou from jail.)• Yes, the screens will require themounting bracket. No, I don’t knowwhy they aren’t on the job order. I’mthe installer…I’m not the salesman, theconsultant, the engineer, the purchasingagent, the shipping or receivingclerk, or the delivery driver. Starting atthe top of this list, I think you shouldstart asking them. If you had asked me,I would have told you, “Yes, I’ll needthem”—but you didn’t ask me.• Specific input and output connectors,such as an “output jack for radiofeed,” must be identified as to thespecific type of connector and its location.From what piece of equipment,and what signal level is desired?Mic, line, balanced, unbalanced,XLR, ¼-inch, mini 3.5mm, RCA,mono, stereo? Will any type of buffer(transformer) isolator be provided?Can Bubba even spell XLR? Did yousomehow forget to mention that this“feed” has to be in the other buildingnext to the sanctuary, 100 feet away,over that paved parking lot?• Has the knowledge, understanding,training and experience ofthe installers been considered andevaluated prior to sending them outto a job? We once had an installerattach a wall-mounted speaker to asheetrock wall in a restaurant witha single #8x1 pan head wood screw,directly into the sheet-rock…no anchorof any type, whatsoever. Beforehe left the building, the speaker fell.He called the office and said, “Thewalls were made out of some kind ofpowder.” He had absolutely no ideawhat “sheetrock” was.• Does Bubba even own a solderingiron and, if so, would he know whichend to hold?• Speaking of Bubba, does he, orhis helper, know how to use powertools? I’d love to tell you about theexperienced installer who attemptedto install a microphone on a stainlesssteel counter using a power drill…running backward! In fact, I will!If I had given him another coupleof hours, he may very well havefinished. In about 90 minutes, he hadsuccessfully gouged (or burned out)three out of the four ¼-inch holesnecessary. You should try to dothis sometime, just to see how trulydifficult it is to drill a stainless steelcounter backward.You literally have to heat the counterand drill bit to well beyond whitehot (using only the friction of the bit,and I strongly suggest that you don’tRobin Parker, owner of Suffolk Audio Services, has more than 30 years of experience in theprofessional audio/video industry. He has been involved with the design and installation ofhundreds of systems in the Mid-Atlantic region and worldwide.36 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

CTS and CTS-I are now accredited under theISO/IEC 17024 international standard bythe American National Standards Institute (ANSI) the InternationalOrganization for Standardization’s (ISO’s) U.S. representative.More than 9,500 AV professionals have earned their CTS, the only AV certificationaccredited by ANSI. AV professionals holding the CTS and the CTS-I credentials havea specialized level of audiovisual technology proficiency, proven through a validatedcertification process.Don’t take our word for it – candidates and employers alike can be assured that ANSIhas independently verified that these certifications meet the highest professionalstandards of examination development and administration. This decision was basedon rigorous criteria that have the consensus approval of more than 150 nations. ®Setting the Standard for AV ExcellenceFor more information, visit www.infocomm.org/certification.

X-ENDgets thepicture!AV simple. Versatile.HUBBELL’s iSTATION Plug-n-Play X-END InterfaceSystem takes the headache out of installations andreduces labor. The secret lies with our patent pendingX-END interface. The factory-tested X-END cableassemblies eliminate termination and testing time, andcan be pulled through conduit and plugged directly toone of 12 X-END application modules, patch cordsor tails.The X-END interface provides flexibility and ease ofuse allowing six keystone connections or three modulesin a single gang.For additional information about HUBBELL’s iSTATION Plug-n-Play X-END Interface System, call1-800-GRAYBAR (472-9227) or visitgraybar.com/hubbell-av.use any cutting fluids because they will only vaporize,causing lots of smoke), sit on the drill, pushing with all ofyour weight and strength (you’ll have to put several piecesof cardboard between your butt and the drill because itwill become rather hot), for about 30 minutes per hole.Eventually, due to the molecular breakdown and superheatingof the stainless steel (melting, I think it’s called), ahole will appear. Now, it won’t be quite as “clean” lookingas a normally drilled hole, but there will be an orifice ofsorts, which a small bolt or wire can pass through. Youwon’t have to worry about installing a grommet for thewire, either. The “hole” will actually be rather smoothonce the area returns to normal, cooling from its moltenstate. Sanding with steel wool may help to restore some ofthe original silver color.I must compliment this installer on his drive, determination,willpower, strength, ability to stay focused on task andabsolute sheer stupidity. Question 1: How long did you estimateit would take to install a single microphone on a steelcounter? Question 2: How long did it actually take? Thefunniest part was hearing him cuss when I showed him howthat “forward/reverse” switch worked. I forget how manybits he melted. (Please forgive me BJ; I just had to tell theworld this one!). P.S.: I wish I could remember which brandof drill it was. After all of this abuse, the drill continued towork just fine! What a great ad!• Does Bubba have a supervisor? Is he qualified andknowledgeable? Is he even planning to visit and inspectthe jobsite? Is his time cost factored into the job?• Do the installers understand rigging standards andpractices, and do they understand the difference betweenplastic wall anchors, molly bolts, toggle bolts and the12,000 other types of wall fasteners? Do they know thedifferent loading factors of “eye rings” and the properprocedure for assembling a wire rope harness?• Do you know what a 120 pound loudspeaker will do tosomeone’s skull if said speaker falls on said skull? Do youhave any idea how much the family will sue for? I just loveseeing my name on legal documents! Makes me feel…important!• Has it been determined that all of the equipment isfully operational, out of the box? Remember the projectorI saw today? There is a basic rule of thumb that states, thelater on a Friday afternoon something arrives for that rushinstallation order we got yesterday, the greater the chancethere will be an out-of-box failure.• Is the equipment we rented operating properly? Thankgoodness the fire department didn’t send us a bill for gettingthose two installers out of the lift that wouldn’t start.It must have been a quiet night because eight firefighters,four rescue workers and six sheriff’s department officersshowed up from the 911 call. We should have ordered pizza.• Let’s see: Install an entire fire alarm system in a schoolfour hours away. Total labor on the job form: 32 hours. Noper diem, no hotel, no gas expenses…just 32 hours of labor.Two men in the truck: eight man-hours just getting to thejob, eight man-hours returning. So, if I have this figured38 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

correctly, we have just enough labor to drive out theretwice; that is, if we don’t eat or go to the restroom. Somehow,I don’t think there’s enough labor for this project.• 16 rack spaces worth of equipment will not, I repeat,will not, I repeat again, will not, fit in a 12-space rack. Ifyou ask me again, I will tell you the same thing. And, no,I don’t know why the salesman said it would.Needless to say, I can continue on with this for an unspecifiedbut rather lengthy period of time. I’ve seen medo it. There are a lot of piranhas out there—more thanyou can imagine—and each one wants to take a bite outof your business.• As another general statement, it is safe to assumethat, for even a small system rack to be assembledproperly and professionally, wired, tested and labeled, alabor factor of anywhere from four to eight man-hourscertainly is realistic. There is “done” and there is “doneright,” and there is a huge difference between the two.And very often, they don’t look the same.• By the way, racks will get beat up banging aroundin the back of a truck. You can knock most of the dentsout so the doors will shut and we don’t think the shopguy was looking at the right drawings when he builtthem, so we had to completely rewire everything so thesystem would work properly. The customer also wantedto know when the new replacement rack would be coming.It should only take a couple of days to swap out andcompletely rewire everything.• Installers typically do not “tune” or “set up” or “program”systems because that falls under a very differentand specific level of training, knowledge and experience.There was this guy who “tested” the sound system at ahigh school football field, while school was in session,by playing some rap/hip hop CD with a parental advisorylabel on the cover. The customer wasn’t very happy.At last report, this guy was looking for a job at RadioShack.• Oh, and please make sure the next time you sendus that big control system, it is programmed correctly, Iknow you said it was, but it wasn’t. We spent, read thatwasted, quite a few extra hours unhooking and testing allof the video lines, just to be sure we didn’t do anythingwrong before we found out the system simply wasn’tprogrammed properly—like you said it was.• System setup, programming of DSPs, system equalization,and customer training and orientation will be held asa separate element of work from the installation and will bepriced separately. Again, generally speaking, you shouldallow a minimum of four to eight or more man-hours, notincluding transportation or other costs to the labor base.Again, please forgive my attempts at being funny, butit’s not really funny when you can’t tighten the bolts onan R2 because you don’t have a ¾-inch wrench. It willonly take 90 minutes to find a hardware store.Last question: After everything that could possibly gowrong, and did, how much profit do you think you made?Your boss just might want to know.nGraybardelivers theBIG picture.X-END has been integrated into HUBBELL iSTATION modules and keystone connectors to work seamlesslywith all of HUBBELL’s work station and delivery products.Graybar stocks the full range of AV and deliveryproducts, getting it there when you need it, where youneed it.Get the picture?For additional information about HUBBELL’s iSTATION Plug-n-Play X-END AV Systems, call 1-800-GRAYBAR(472-9227) or visit graybar.com/hubbell-av.October 2008 39

Natatorium AdventuresA reminiscence of Olympic proportions.By R. David ReadI was prompted, related to a referenceto the difficulties of providingintelligible sound in indoor swimmingpools by Peter Mapp (“SoundAdvice,” Sound & Communications,April 2008), to reflect on my personalexperiences involving just such anendeavor.Perhaps our readers will indulgeme as I temporarily interrupt myseries of Industry Pioneers featuresto recount a situation that exemplifieshow such projects can turn intounmitigated disasters.Back in 1964, the City of LongBeach (CA) was chosen as the hostfor the Summer Olympic Trials. Thisnecessitated construction of severalfacilities to accommodate the variousevents that would be part of thoseactivities. One such facility was a natatorium,a Latin-derived, fancy wordfor an indoor swimming pool. PerOlympic Standards requirements,the facility would be constructedto accommodate a regulation poolsuitable for Olympic swimmingand diving events. Hence, buildingdimensions, pool depth and audienceattendance size were duly stipulated.The city, eager to comply withthe Olympic Committee’s stipulations,engaged the services of a localarchitect and the well regarded LosAngeles-based engineering consultingfirm of Parsons & Associates todesign the structure. ConsideringConstructedin 1964, theNatatorium isstill in activeuse by thecitizens ofLong BeachCA.City of Long Beach Visitor & Convention Bureauthat the building dimensions werealready firmly established, the designteam was tasked primarily withdesigning a structure that wouldhouse the stipulated functions.Hey...piece of cake, right? Builda pool, construct four walls anddesign a roof that would adequatelyenclose the specified operations.The architectural design team setto work and envisioned a grandiosestructure that would be comprisedof a soaring 100-foot-tall buildingwith deck-to-ceiling glass walls onthe longitudinal sides, marble endwalls, a ceramic-tile deck and anacoustical-tile ceiling suspended75 feet above the deck. No acousticalconsultant was involved in thedesign. This, of course, was longbefore any semblance of architectural-acousticmodeling existed. Thepremise being: Build a structure,make it architecturally attractiveand hope for the best related toacoustics, reverberation and intelligibility.Sited near Belmont Pier onthe shoreline, construction of thestructure was duly commenced.Hannon Engineering of Los Angeleswas the “premier” local soundcontractor in that era and virtuallycontrolled the new constructionelements of the sound contractingmarket. The sound system specificationsfor the new natatorium edificehad Hannon Engineering written allover it. Pat and Andy (the HannonBrothers) enjoyed the status of beingone of the select few that held adistributorship for Altec products.However, in this case, they electedto specify a combination of WebsterElectric (Racine) and EV products.This was probably occasioned bythe fact that KT Electronics in LongBeach was also an Altec contractorand, hence, a potential competitorfor the project. KT, being a LongBeach-based firm, had a 10% “buylocal”advantage and, in typicalHannon fashion, their Webster/EVContributing Editor R. David Read authors our popular Industry Pioneers series and, obviously,has lots of stories to tell from his personal experiences.40 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

spec was intended to lock KT outof the bidding process. Needless tosay, Altec was not too happy aboutthis turn of events; however, in thelong run, they avoided being blamedfor a disastrous conclusion. From allappearances, Hannon Engineeringlooked like a shoo-in.Perhaps unbeknownst to Hannon,a new sound contracting firm had establishedits identity in the San FernandoValley. Former JBL employeesLarry Phillips (ex-national salesmanager), George Augsberger (exchiefengineer for JBL, not relatedto current president of Harman Pro,Blake Augsburger) and Walter Dick(ex-transducer engineer) had createda new company (the name of thefirm escapes me) that intended toparticipate in the Los Angeles soundcontracting field. Lo and behold,the new firm submitted a bid for theLong Beach natatorium project andwon the competitive bid process.Knowing full well that their feetGene turned to me andasked, ‘Is that Frank Sinatraor Peggy Lee?’ I honestlycouldn’t tell him.would be held to the fire and thatany deviation from the specs wouldbe pounced upon by Hannon, thePhillips/Augsberger/Dick consortiumproceeded to submit and dulyfabricate a system that was entirelywithin the stipulations of the specifications.Webster and EV were delighted;Altec was miffed to no end.With EV CDP horns pointedstraight down from a 75-foot overheadconcealed behind faux-tile grillecloth, the devices were beamed intoa highly reflective tile deck, an Olympic-sizedpool, with glass and marblewalls; the conditions predicated anacoustical and intelligibility nightmare.In those days, room equalizationwas virtually unknown and theequipment for accurately measuringacoustical response, likewise, wasstill a relatively poorly understoodscience. Measuring intelligibility wasalso an unknown art.In the capacity of what we wouldnow term a project manager, I canrecall accompanying Gene Lockard,foreman of the radio shop, whoseworkforce would be responsible foroperating the sound system at thenew natatorium, for an examinationof the new system. Gene was a goodtenor-sax man, having played withthe likes of the Sammy Kaye aggregation,the Jack Teagarden band andother well-respected jazz bands; hehad a good ear for music. When weentered the new facility, they wereplaying a recording; Gene turned tome and asked, “Is that Frank Sinatraor Peggy Lee?” I honestly couldn’ttell him—it was that bad.The Next Generation ofTwisted Pair Integration Level and peaking compensation on each inputensure consistent image quality with long andshort cable runs Dynamic skew equalization maintains RGB coloralignment regardless of input and output cablelength combinations Local video and audio I/Os accommodate rackmountedsources and destinations, eliminating theneed for additional transmitters and receivers Local bidirectional RS-232 insertion portsenable a 3rd-party control system to controlremote display devicesMTPX Plus Matrix SwitchersSix Models in sizes from 8x16 to 32x32800.633.9876 www.extron.com/mtpxplus34Twisted Pair Transmitters & Receivers Twisted Pair Switchers Twisted Pair Matrix Switchers Twisted Pair Distribution Amplifiersscm_hlfpg_ads_08.indd 109/15/08 1:03:59 PMOctober 2008 41

The opening date for the Olympictrials was fast approaching and someform of solution was predicated. IfHannon had been the successfulbidder, undoubtedly the installationwould have been “signed off” asacceptable. To their credit, the Phillips/Augsberger/Dickconsortiumpersevered.As a junior engineer with thecity and fresh out of college, I wassomewhat aware of Dr. C.P Boner’sexploits in “taming” errant soundsystems. However, it came as asurprise when the hapless contractorcalled “Doc” in to evaluate thecircumstances. Up to this point, Ihad no personal experience withhis work and was eager to see whatcould be accomplished to mitigatethe unfortunate circumstances wewere facing.Within a few days, Dr. Bonerarrived on the scene. Carting hisever-present battered briefcase, hestrolled into the natatorium and wasConsiderably altered from its original design, this contemporary photo shows theinterior of the facility. Note that the ceiling has been lowered considerably.introduced to the assembled groupof architects, consulting engineersand the city’s engineering staffmembers.Setting his briefcase down at ourfeet, Doc commenced his examinationof the room. The eight to 10 ofus congregated at the approximatePA poolside announce location infront of the PA control equipment,City of Long Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau42 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

when Doc began meandering ina counterclockwise fashion aboutthe pool. As we stood anxiouslyawaiting the results of his examination,Doc would stop at intervals,clap his hands, shake his head andresume his stroll. Although thecontractor had brought along somerudimentary, crude test apparatus,none was put to use. Within thespace of perhaps 10 minutes, Docrejoined us.At that point, the city’s chief engineer,as the owner’s representative,uttered the unfortunate phrase,“Well, Doctor Boner, what do yousuggest?” Doc shook his head ofbushy grey hair and sardonicallyresponded, “Fill the damn place fullof hay.” At which point, he scoopedup his briefcase and departed.Who paid for the good doctor’stravel and examination was nevermade clear; however, I suspect thePhillips/Augsberger/Dick consortiumabsorbed the costs. Aftera lengthy, drawn-out examinationof the contract documents, it wasdetermined that the sound contractorhad abided by the documentsand had provided a system thatwas fully within the scope of thespecifications. They were off thehook and were paid eventually. Intoday’s more litigious society, thearchitect’s and engineer’s “errorand omission insurance” probablywould have been more closelyexamined.All of this activity had not setaside the abiding factor that theOlympic Trials were within daysof commencing. The architectsand consulting engineers seemedinclined to ignore the obvious problemswith the sound system andadopted the attitude that the audiencemight ignore the fact that theycouldn’t hear and be be-smittenwith the visual aspects of the presentation.Those of us in the CityEngineering Department thoughtotherwise, and realized that thewoefully, completely unintelligiblesound system would be a disgraceto the city.At Lockard’s suggestion, a quantityof small EV column loudspeakerswas procured from KT Electronics,installed at about eight feet abovethe rear seat levels around the perimeterof the room behind the audiencebleachers and slanted slightlydownward. The units were wiredin place by employees of the RadioDepartment. The overhead pointeddownwardEV CDP horns were abandoned;the underwater UniversityUW-30 loudspeakers were retainedand the solution saved the day. I canstill recall Paul McIntosh, a RadioDepartment employee, donning hisswimsuit and paddling underwaterto check the operation of the underwaterspeakers. The solution wasn’tparticularly architecturally pretty,but it proved effective.To the best of my knowledge, nofactual measurements were evermade of the system. As was commonfor the era, if it worked, count yourblessings, and for heaven’s sake,never kick a sleeping dog! nOctober 2008 43

UnconventionalConvention CenterVast Gaylord National Resort offers AV-infused amenities.By R. David ReadThe latest addition to Gaylord Entertainment’shotel-resort offeringsopened recently in the WashingtonDC area. In true Gaylord fashion, theWashington/National Harbor project isunique, yet keeps with Gaylord’s distinctiveproperties in Nashville (Opryland),Orlando (Palms) and Dallas/Ft.Worth (Texan).Largest Non-Casino HotelBilled as the largest (non-casino) hoteland convention center on the easternseaboard, the Washington Nationalboasts 2000 rooms, an 18-story atriumand 650,000 square feet of convention/conference/exhibit space. The targetedmarket for this new property is thebusiness/convention customer. To thisend, no small amount of effort was putinto providing the amenities that caterto that class of clientele. Audiovisualand information technology considerationswere at the forefront.The project assumed the “classic”form for new construction activities:That is, the AV design was preparedand documented by the Dallas-basedconsulting firm of Wrightson, Johnson,Haddon & Williams (WJHW);the project was let for competitive bidthrough traditional channels, i.e., GC-EC-AV contractor. The successful AVsystems integrator was SPL (now AVI-SPL) of Columbia MD. The timeframefor completion was set at 18 months.As the successful bidder, AVI-SPLwas awarded a contract, handed asheaf of documents, and told to prepareworking drawings/submittals andstart staging for work that included:• installation of high-quality, intelligiblepublic-address/music playbacksystems in all interior and appropriateexterior public spaces• installation of sound-reinforcementsystems in all conferencing facilities,including the divisible ballroom/exhibitspaces• installation of lounge-quality audioand video systems in the entertainmentareas• installation of videoconferencingsystems in designated conferencerooms and hotel administrative areas• installation of an area-wide IT networkthat would link all the elementsinto a cohesive whole• installation of a suitable cabling infrastructurethat would be usable bythe in-house rental and staging company• coordination with the architectur-Contributing Editor R. David Read has been part of the communications industry for 50 years.44 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

Scott Palamar, choreographer/programmerThe new Gaylord Hotel& Convention Center is aglimmering beacon on thebanks of the Potomac Riverjust outside Washington DC.The combination of show control, lighting effectsand AV presentation transforms the Atriumfountain into a spectacular display.Gaylord Hotel Propertiesal/stage lighting supplier for seamlesspresentation of audio/video/lightingcontrol• coordination with the show controlprovider to integrate the mechanicalsequencing of visuals, i.e., fountain/light shows with audio/video elements• provision and installation of hometheater playback systems in six luxurysuites• interfacing with Gaylord’s in-houseIT staff for data-AV networking provisions• interfacing with the data/TV guestroom supplier for shared service provisions.Security and fire alarm systems wereunder the scope of another supplier.Public SpaceAV SystemsIn accordance with the owner’s dictates,the system specifications calledfor a high quality, high-density, zonedpaging and music distribution systemthroughoutthe interior andexterior publicspaces. This tookthe form of 44full-sized, interconnectedequipmentracks strategicallylocatedin 11 equipmentrooms scatteredin and about thepremises. Toprovide the necessary “audiohorsepower,” thesystem uses 134Lab.gruppen amplifiersto deliver250,000 watts ofpower to the connected2400 Tannoyloudspeakers.Each rackalso contains theassociated DSPnetworks to acceptinputs from499 custom-fabricatedinput panels,and provide the necessary audioprocessing.To interlace this complex system,AVI-SPL installed a dedicated Ciscobasednetwork that routes 672 channelsof CobraNet audio, control datafrom 150 Crestron wallmount touchpanelsand six web-based Crestron E-Control systems to the MediaMatrixDSP system. Additionally, Crestroncontrol also integrates seamlessly withthe lighting system to provide touchpanelrecall of lighting presets.Working with lighting system supplierCandela Controls and Gaylord’sIT staff, the entire system can be controlledarea-wide by using PC tablettechnology.According to senior project engineerJeff Vogt, several subcontractors augmentedAVI-SPL’s labor force: Tech,Inc., of Lanham MD, provided fieldcable installation; Towson MD-basedNelson-White Systems provided fielddevice termination services; and WavIntegrators, of Rockville MD, whosetechnicians performed terminationat the rack equipment locations. Vogtoffered, “These firms did an admirablejob and, without them, [AVI-SPL]would have been hard pressed to completethe project within the allowabletimeframe.”Ballroom/ConferenceRoom SystemsMost of the ballroom/exhibit spaceand conferencing facilities are sited ina three-story adjacent structure joinedto the hotel proper by an enclosedwalkway. The lower level, three-football-field-sizedexhibit space is divisibleinto four sections. Naturally, eachsection can be used independently orin a room-combined mode. Similarly,the two distinct ballroom areas can beused in either a combined or a decombinedmode, thus allowing the propertyto be adapted to fit the needs of aparticular group or function.The 55 discrete, standalone meetingrooms were equipped with the necessarycabling infrastructure to supportlocal AV presentations. Selected areas,i.e., boardrooms, administrative salesand staff conferencing rooms, wereOctober 2008 45

This graphic elevation drawing puts the various elements ofthe property into perspective.Gaylord Hotel PropertiesSoundComm Isl hlf 6-07 5/15/07 9:39 AM Page 1NEWQ-CS Power1Powered LoudspeakerDirect connection to projectors and computerswith no additional equipment requiredQ-CS Power1 AmplifierSMThe best sound around10 Research Dr., Stratford, CT 06615• 15W built in amplifier• 2 stereo inputs withgain controls• 2 way 8" coaxial driver• 180˚ x 360˚ dispersion• Fewer speakers neededfor better coverage• Single speaker coverslarge areaSoundsphere LoudspeakerConventional LoudspeakerSoundsphere Loudspeakersare Made in the USA.(203) 386-9200 • www.soundsphere.comWJHW ConsultantsThe Dallas TX-based acoustical consultingfirm of Wrightson, Johnson, Haddon& Williams is well known for its designwork involving stadiums and arenas. Oftenoverlooked is the firm’s involvementin numerous non-sports-related projects.The Gaylord property in Washington DCmarks WJHW’s second major project forthis client. WJHW was also the acousticalconsultant and principal AV designer forGaylord’s hotel-resort property located inthe Dallas-Ft. Worth Airport area.A Gaylord spokesperson commented,“We are extremely pleased with WJHW’sdesign work on the Washington Nationaland our other ongoing projects.”equipped with telepresence systems tofacilitate AV conferencing situations.Specifications (unless other wisenoted) excluded providing sourcingmaterials and equipment. To avoid havingthe property owner capitalize andmaintain such equipment, responsibilityfor its provision was vested withProduction Ser vices AV Company(PSAV), the in-house AV staging andrental company.Referencing the new facility, PSAV’sVictor Escobedo, facility manager forthe Washington property, said, “PSAVis the onsite rental and staging companyfor all four of the Gaylord Hotels.I’ve been in the hotel/resort/convention/AVend of this business for upwardsof 12 years, and this property isthe most intricate and comprehensivefacility with which I have ever beeninvolved. At the onset of the project,we at PSAV were asked our ideas ofwhat should and should not be a partof the specified AV/lighting systems.46 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

We do. With Yamaha’s LS9, countless features are jam-packed into this miniaturemixer. A virtual effects rack, plenty of EQ and dynamic processors, full-size 100mm faders, an integrated MP3 recorder/player, and recallable head amps makethe LS9 worthy of major notice. Once you pick it up (LS9-32 weighs a mere 42 lbs)you won’t want to put it down, so give it a little attention and see how this compactconsole can make a big difference in your mixes.Yamaha’s LS9. Worth Your While.When you need help, time zones shouldn’t matter. Yamaha provides coast to coast24/7 technical support. With dedicated staff and regional service centers, assistanceis around the corner. If we can’t fix it over the phone, we’ll put a part or a personon the next plane out. It’s that simple.Yamaha Commercial Audio Systems, Inc. • P. O. Box 6600, Buena Park, CA 90620-6600©2008 Yamaha Commercial Audio Systems, Inc.

EquipmentEXHIBIT HALL7 ADC PPA3-14MKII3ESN audio patch panels4 ADC PPI2224-SVJ video patch panels5 APC SMART-UPS XL uninterruptiblepower supplies4 Cisco Catalyst 3750 Series Ethernet switches1 Clear-Com PS-464 intercom power supply1 Clear-Com RM-440 intercom master station2 Crestron 2-Series control processors6 Crestron TPS-2000L touchpanels1 Dell PowerEdge 860 server computer112 EAW MK2399 speakers2 Extron MDA-5V video dist. amps3 Fibox FBAI/FBAO fiberoptic audio transceivers1 Interlogic Industries RKS-204B-20M computermonitor1 I-Tech KB-1E keyboard4 Jensen DIN-2L1 audio balancing transformers2 Lab.gruppen C10:4X 4-channel amps6 Lab.gruppen C16:4 4-channel amps2 Lab.gruppen C28:4 4-channel amps4 Lab.gruppen NLB-60E amp control processors3 MediaMatrix by Peavey CAB16o CobraNet outputs2 MediaMatrix by Peavey CAB4N CobraNetbreakout boxes2 MediaMatrix by Peavey NION N3 DSPs4 Panduit DP245E88TG RJ45 patch input panels4 Panduit FRME2 fiber patch panels5 SurgeX SX2120 surge suppressors170 Tannoy CMS601 DC speakers6 Wohler AMP1A-30 rack audio monitorsPotomac1 Acopian 24PT10A DC power supply8 ADC PPA3-14MKII3ESN audio patch panels1 ADC PPA3-14MKII3ESN audio patch panel2 ADC PPI2224-SVJ video patch panels4 APC SMART-UPS XL uninterruptiblepower supplies1 Ashly GQX1502 EQ1 Ashly MIX-508 audio mixer1 Cisco Catalyst 3750 Series Ethernet switch1 Clear-Com MS-440 intercom master station1 Clear-Com PS-464 intercom power supply1 Clear-Com RM-440 intercom master station1 Crestron 2-Series control processor12 Crestron TPS-2000L touchpanels3 Dell Latitude D620 notebook computers1 Dell PowerEdge 860 server computer1 Denon DN-C550R CD recorder3 Extreme CCTV EX38NX-84-V408 low light cameras3 Extron MDA-5V video dist. amps1 Interlogic Industries RKS-204B-20M computermonitor1 I-Tech KB-1E keyboard4 Jensen DIN-2L1 audio balancing transformers13 Lab.gruppen C16:4 4-channel amps1 Lab.gruppen C20:8X 8-channel power amp2 Lab.gruppen C28:4 4-channel amps1 Lab.gruppen NLB-60E amp control processor5 MediaMatrix by Peavey CAB16o CobraNet outputs3 MediaMatrix by Peavey NION N3 DSPs1 Panduit DP245E88TG RJ45 patch input panel1 Panduit FRME2 fiber patch panel2 Sennheiser EM500G2 rackmountable receivers2 Sennheiser SKM 545-G2 mic receivers10 SurgeX SX2120 surge suppressors96 Tannoy CMS12 TDC speakers25 Tannoy CMS601 DC speakers48 Tannoy CMS801 DC speakers1 ToteVision LCD560 triple video monitor3 Whirlwind E-SNAKE 2 24x8 digital snake systems1 Wohler AMP1A-30 rack audio monitorMaryland1 Acopian 24PT10A DC power supply5 ADC PPA3-14MKII3ESN audio patch panels2 ADC PPI2224-SVJ video patch panels3 APC SMART-UPS XL uninterruptiblepower supplies1 Cisco Catalyst 3750 Series Ethernet switch1 Clear-Com PS-464 intercom power supply1 Clear-Com RM-440 intercom master station1 Crestron 2-Series control processor12 Crestron TPS-2000L touchpanels1 Dell PowerEdge 860 server computer2 Extron MDA-5V video dist. amps1 Interlogic Industries RKS-204B-20M computermonitor1 I-Tech KB-1E keyboard2 Jensen DIN-2L1 audio balancing transformers9 Lab.gruppen C16:4 4-channel amps2 Lab.gruppen C28:4 4-channel amps1 Lab.gruppen NLB-60E amp control processor4 MediaMatrix by Peavey CAB16o CobraNet outputs2 MediaMatrix by Peavey NION N3 DSPs1 Panduit DP245E88TG RJ45 patch input panel1 Panduit FRME2 fiber patch panel3 SurgeX SX2120 surge suppressors72 Tannoy CMS12 TDC speakers6 Tannoy CMS601 DC speakers51 Tannoy CMS801 DC speakers1 Wohler AMP1A-30 rack audio monitorMeeting Room4 Acopian 24PT10A DC power supplies15 ADC PPA3-14MKII3ESN audio patch panels4 ADC PPI2224-SVJ video patch panels6 APC SMART-UPS XL uninterruptible powersupplies3DVIRTUALBLACK.COM

1 Cisco Catalyst 4507 Core Ethernet switch1 Clear-Com PS-464 intercom power supply1 Clear-Com RM-440 intercom master station1 Crestron 2-Series control processor36 Crestron TPS-2000L touchpanels1 Dell PowerEdge 860 server computer4 Extron MDA-5V video dist. amps1 Interlogic Industries RKS-204B-20M computermonitor1 I-Tech KB-1E keyboard4 Jensen DIN-2L1 audio balancing transformers22 Jensen DIN-PC audio balancing transformers1 Lab.gruppen C10:4X 4-channel amp2 Lab.gruppen C16:4 4-channel amps3 Lab.gruppen C20:8X 8-channel power amps7 Lab.gruppen C28:4 4-channel amps1 Lab.gruppen NLB-60E amp control processor9 MediaMatrix by Peavey CAB16o CobraNet outputs7 MediaMatrix by Peavey NION N3 DSPs1 Panduit DP485E88TG RJ45 patch input panel1 Panduit FRME2 fiber patch panel7 SurgeX SX2120 surge suppressors6 Tannoy CMS12 TDC speakers416 Tannoy CMS601 DC speakers44 Tannoy CMS801 DC speakers1 Wohler AMP1A-30 rack audio monitorSales Rooms1 Bosch DCN-WAP wireless access point1 Bosch DCN-WCCU wireless mic system11 Christie LW-300 projectors7 Crestron 2-Series control processors9 Crestron STX-1700CW wireless touchpanels2 Crestron TPS-2000L touchpanels11 Da-Lite Advantage Electrol projection screens6 Extron CrossPoint 450 Plus 88 matrix routers1 Extron ISM-482 scaling switcher14 Extron RGB-468xi wall input panels7 JVC SR-MV50US DVD, VCR combo units7 Lab.gruppen C10:4X 4-channel amps1 MediaMatrix by Peavey X-FRAME DSP1 Polycom Vortex audio conferencing6 Symetrix 322 DSPs40 Tannoy CMS601 DC speakers2 Tannoy IW6 speakersHotel5 Acopian 24PT10A DC power supplies13 ADC PPA3-14MKII3ESN audio patch panels3 ADC PPI2224-SVJ video patch panels1 Alesis iO|2 USB audio interface10 APC SMART-UPS XL uninterruptiblepower supplies165 Bose FreeSpace 360P ground speakers1 Cisco Catalyst 4507 Core Ethernet switch1 Cisco Catalyst 3750 Series Ethernet switch2 Clear-Com PS-464 intercom power supplies2 Clear-Com RM-440 intercom master stations27 Crestron TPS-2000L touchpanels3 Crestron 2-Series control processors13 Crestron TPS-2000L touchpanels2 Dell PowerEdge 860 server computers4 Denon DCM-280P CD changers4 Extron MDA-5V video dist. amps2 Interlogic Industries RKS-204B-20M computermonitors2 I-Tech KB-1E keyboards4 JBL VRX915S subwoofers12 JBL VRX932LA pole arrays4 Jensen DIN-2L1 audio balancing transformers3 Lab.gruppen C10:4X 4-channel amps4 Lab.gruppen C48:4 4-channel amps14 Lab.gruppen C16:4 4-channel amps30 Lab.gruppen C20:8X 8-channel power ampsMore than 44 racks of equipment in11 different locations provide the AVservices for the hotel property.(continued on page 52)AVI-SPL

AVI-SPLSelected conference and hotel meeting rooms are equippedwith full-scale telepresence systems.Consequently, a lot of what was includedon our ‘wish list’ was incorporatedinto the design. The result, from anoperational standpoint, is the mostflexible and thorough infrastructureimaginable.“By utilizing the multiple input panelsand the built-in fiber and Cat5 cablingnetwork, we can literally routeand combine signal and control signalsfrom practically any point on theproperty to virtually anywhere else.We have yet to find the need to pull intemporary cabling for any event.”Escobedo further elaborated, “Thedesigners and systems integratorsAVI-SPLThe recent AVI and SPL merger has created what is reputed tobe the largest AV systems integrator in North America. With morethan 1200 employees, privately held Tampa FL-based AVI-SPL has40 offices across the US, with additional offices in Mexico andDubai.Jeff Vogt, chief project engineer for the Gaylord Washington-National project, cited the following individuals for their effortsin bringing the project online within the stated budget and timeframe: George Douglass, account sales manager; Skip Warrington,senior project manager; Tom Fortwengler, project manager; AlexVasquez, PM/engineer; LD Parker, PM/engineer; Henry Hsu, seniorengineer/programmer; and Dustin Main, senior technician.Vogt noted, “These individuals, along with our fine group of subcontractors,made completion of this project a profitable reality.”involved were the most thorough andconscientious group of people withwhom it has ever been my privilegeto work.”In addition to the core AV system,AVI-SPL installed standalone audio systemsin four restaurants and six retailshops, as well as Relache, the hotel’s50 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

spa and fitness center. Vogtelaborated, “We provided presentation/audioconferencingsystems for six sales rooms,two boardrooms and the hotelmanager’s meeting room.In addition, six home-theaterstylesystems were installed inthe luxury hotel suites.”Large, CurvedVideowallThe National Pastime SportsBar features a 32-foot-wide by9-foot-high curved videowallthat is capable of displaying up to 12discreet HD channels at any one time.This is made possible by videowall processingfrom Vista Systems’ Spyder, aswell as warping and blending by 3DPerceptions’ CompactUTM. Video isprojected by six projectiondesign F30+SXGA projectors onto a custom StewartFilmscreen AT3 screen. The videowallis complemented by a 10,000-watt JBLThe National Pastime Sports Bar’s 32'x9' curved videowall can display up to 12 discreetHD channels at any one time.sound system in 7.1 surround by Lexicon,as well as 20 flat-panel displaysfrom LG and Sharp located throughoutthe bar.In Pose, Gaylord’s 19 th -floor UltraLounge, which provides a panoramicview of the Washington skyline, AVI-SPL provided a sound system to rivalWashington DC’s hottest nightclubs.EAW’s MK and SB series loudspeakerswere selected for the main dancefloor sound-reinforcement system, withadditional sub-bass provided by eightNEXO CD12s, all driven by 60,000watts of Lab.gruppen amplifiers. Thefront-end for this system is a high-techDJ booth featuring Pioneer CDJ1000players, Technics SL1210 MK5 turntablesand a laptop computer runningSerato ScratchLIVE software, all integratedvia a Rane TTM57SL USBequippedDJ mixer.October 2008 51

(continued from page 49)2 Lab.gruppen NLB-60E amp control processors9 MediaMatrix by Peavey CAB16o CobraNet outputs9 MediaMatrix by Peavey NION N3 DSPs2 Panduit DP485E88TG RJ45 patch input panels1 Panduit DP245E88TG RJ45 patch input panel2 Panduit FRME2 fiber patch panels7 SurgeX SX2120 surge suppressors20 Tannoy CMS12 TDC speakers452 Tannoy CMS601 DC speakers11 Tannoy CMS801 DC speakers18 Tannoy DI5 DCT-AW speakers27 Tannoy DI6T-AW speakers4 Tannoy I8T60-AW speakers9 Tannoy IW6 speakers2 Tannoy V12 speakers4 Tannoy V17 speakers48 Tannoy CMS12 TDC speakers2 Wohler AMP1A-30 rack audio monitorsSports Bar1 3D Perception CompactUTM basic videowallwarp module2 ADC PPA3-14MKII3ESN audio patch panels3 APC SMART-UPS XL uninterruptible powersupplies1 AutoPatch Modula 32x32 matrix mixer1 Christie LW-300 projector1 Cisco Catalyst 3750 Series Ethernet switch1 Crestron 2-Series control processor2 Crestron TPS-17 touchpanels1 Crestron TPS-2000L touchpanel1 Da-Lite Advantage Electrol projection screen2 Denon V300 DVD players1 EAW MK8198-2LF speaker5 Extron DA4 RGBHV distribution amps3 Extron DVS-304 scalers2 Extron IN-1502 scalers3 Extron QSD-204 quad decoders2 Extron RGB-468xi wall input panels3 Extron USP-405 scan converters2 Extron VSC500 scan converters1 Focus Enhancements FIREFLY MC digital videoplayer2 JBL ASB4128 subwoofers8 JBL VRX928LA arrayed speakers1 Lab.gruppen C10:4X 4-channel amp1 Lab.gruppen C16:4 4-channel amp1 Lab.gruppen C28:4 4-channel amp2 Lab.gruppen C48:4 4-channel amps1 Lab.gruppen NLB-60E amp control processor1 Lexicon MC-4 surround sound processor2 LG 20LS7DC 20" monitors2 LG 26LS7DC 27" monitors8 LG M3201C 32" monitors1 MediaMatrix by Peavey CAB16o CobraNet output2 MediaMatrix by Peavey NION N3 DSPs1 Panduit DP245E88TG RJ45 patch input panel1 Panduit FRME2 fiber patch panel8 projectiondesign F30 sx+ video projectors2 Sharp LC-52D62U 52" monitors6 Sharp PN-465-U 46" monitors3 SurgeX SX2120 surge suppressors1 Tannoy DI5 DCT-AW speaker8 Tannoy CMS12 TDC speakers13 Tannoy CMS801 DC speakers4 Tannoy V12 speakers1 Vista Spyder 344 and 380 videowall processorBoardrooms2 APC SMART-UPS XL uninterruptible powersupplies2 Bosch DCN-WAP wireless access points2 Bosch DCN-WCCU wireless mic systems1 Cisco Catalyst 3750 Series Ethernet switch2 Crestron 2-Series control processors2 Crestron STX-1700CW wireless touchpanels2 Crestron TPS-15G-QM touchpanels2 Da-Lite Advantage Electrol projection screens2 Denon V300 DVD players2 Display Devices DataLift projector lifts2 Extron CrossPoint 450 Plus 88 matrix routers2 Extron MGP464 multi graphics processors2 Extron USP-405 scan converters2 Lab.gruppen C10:4X 4-channel amps2 Lab.gruppen C20:8X 8-channel power amps1 Lab.gruppen NLB-60E amp control processor2 Lexicon MC-4 surround sound processors2 MediaMatrix by Peavey NION N3 DSPs1 Panduit DP245E88TG RJ45 patch input panel1 Panduit FRME2 fiber patch panel2 Polycom Vortex audio conferencing units2 projectiondesign CINEO30 1080 projectors2 SurgeX SX2120 surge suppressors11 Tannoy CMS601 DC speakers3 Tannoy IW6 speakers4 Tannoy IW62 subwoofersSpa1 APC SMART-UPS XL uninterruptible power supply1 Cisco Catalyst 3750 Series Ethernet switch1 Crestron 2-Series control processor18 Crestron APAD-W control pads1 Denon DCM-280P CD changer7 Extron VTT001 VT - VGA twisted pair transmittersfor RGBHV7 Extron VTR001 VT - VGA twisted pair receivers forRGBHV2 Focus Enhancements FIREFLY MC digital videoplayers2 Lab.gruppen C16:4 4-channel amps2 Lab.gruppen C20:8X 8-channel power amps1 Lab.gruppen NLB-60E amp control processor1 MediaMatrix by Peavey NION N3 DSP1 Panduit DP245E88TG RJ45 patch input panel1 Panduit FRME2 fiber patch panel1 SurgeX SX2120 surge suppressor8 Tannoy CMS-110SR subwoofers72 Tannoy CMS601 DC speakersSuites6 Crestron 2-Series control processors6 Crestron ST-1700C wireless touchpanels6 Denon V300 DVD players6 Lab.gruppen C10:4X 4-channel amps6 Tannoy CMS601 DC speakers6 Tannoy IW62 subwoofers6 ToteVision LCD1044T TVs6 Yamaha YSP-1000 surround processor/speakersNightclub2 AJA HDP video DACs1 Analog Way Broad Scan HD scan converter2 APC SMART-UPS XL uninterruptible powersupplies1 Ashly MX-206 mic mixer1 Cisco Catalyst 3750 Series Ethernet switch1 Communications Specialties 7250 Seriesvideo ADC1 Crestron 2-Series control processor1 Dell Precision M6300 computer22 EAW MK2394 speakers7 EAW SB625 subwoofers6 Extron DA6 RGBHV A distribution amps6 Extron DVI-RGB 150 DVI to analog RGB videointerfaces3 Extron QSD-204 quad decoders3 JBL CBT4 tweeter arrays2 KRK RPS8 monitors1 Lab.gruppen C16:4 4-channel amp5 Lab.gruppen C20:8X 8-channel power amps6 Lab.gruppen C28:4 4-channel amps2 Lab.gruppen C48:4 4-channel ampsPotomac Ballroom stagepresentations can becontrolled from a stagemanager’s rack.4 Lab.gruppen C68:4 4-channel amps1 Lab.gruppen NLB-60E amp control processor30 LG 20LS7DC 20" monitors2 MediaMatrix by Peavey CAB16o CobraNet outputs2 MediaMatrix by Peavey NION N3 DSPs8 Nexo CD12 speakers4 Nexo NX-242 speaker processors1 Panduit DP245E88TG RJ45 patch input panel1 Panduit FRME2 fiber patch panel2 Pioneer DVJ-1000 CD players3 projectiondesign F30 sx+ video projectors1 Rane TTM-57SL DJ mixer1 Sennheiser EM500G2 wireless RX1 Sennheiser SKM 545-G2 mic receiver8 Sunfire True Type G speakers2 SurgeX SX2120 surge suppressors8 Tannoy CMS-110SR subwoofers42 Tannoy CMS801 DC speakers2 Technics SL1200 Mk5 turntables2 Toshiba P27LSA 27" monitorsRetail5 Crown 280MA dual power amps5 Denon V300 DVD players1 Focus Enhancements FIREFLY MC digital videoplayer3 NEC LCD3210 32" monitors20 Tannoy CMS801 DC speakersList is edited from information supplied by AVI-SPL.AVI-SPL52 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

Candela Controls Inc.In business since 1999, Candela Controls,Inc., is a specialty lighting systemsintegrator and contractor located in CentralFlorida. The company has provided lightingcontrol and specialty lighting for a rangeof venues across the US and Canada,including theme parks, museums, hoteland convention centers, casinos, housesof worship and theaters. In addition tothe current Gaylord Washington location,other clients include SeaWorld of Florida,the New World of Coke Museum, Houseof Blues, Borgata Hotel and Casino, andNorthland Community Church.allow the various disciplines (motioncontrol, lighting and audio) to communicatewith each other in a reliableand consistent manner. [Very differentfrom a system this writer was involvedwith many (pre-computer) days ago,when a New Orleans hotel attemptedto implement a similar system. It tookthe form of hundreds of electro-mechanicalrelays controlling scads of solenoids.Needless to say, it was not toosuccessful and required untold hoursof maintenance. The owner soon abandonedthe project.]LightingCandela Controls’ scope of workincluded installation of sophisticatedarchitectural and specialty show-roomlighting control and instruments. Thisincluded virtually all public spaces,with the exception of guest rooms andguest floor corridors. Hence, CandelaControls outfitted the four ballrooms,55 meeting rooms, two boardrooms,(continued on page 100)In each of six luxury suites, AVI-SPLwas tasked with providing a high quality,home-theater-style AV system. Eachsuite boasts a Crestron system featuringan ST-1700C wireless touchpanelcontrolling a Denon V300 DVD playeras well as the owner-furnished LG flatpaneldisplays with integrated LodgeNetHDTV receivers. For sound, the YamahaYSP-800 provides virtual surround soundwith a minimal visual impact. The lowend is augmented by Tannoy’s in-wallsubwoofer, the IW62 TS.AV/Lighting/ShowControl InterfacesIn what has become a hallmark atGaylord properties, a nightly showcontrol,lighting, AV presentation extravagancecenters around the centralatrium fountain display. The combined,coordinated efforts of AV supplier AVI-SPL, lighting supplier Candela, and themotion control designer and supplierresults in “ooohs and aaahs” from fascinatedviewers.By taking its cue from the time-controlledmotion control system and itsassociated computer controller, thesystem handshakes with the AV andlighting system computers to createthe varying lighting effects and accompanyingaudio playback that aresynchronized to complement the dancingwaters.With the advent of today’s computer-controltechnology, integrating thevarious functions was basically a matterof writing the necessary codes toOctober 2008 53

The 42,000-square-footGrand Ballroom servesas the centerpiece ofthe San Antonio MarriottRivercenter renovation.Paul BardagjyTexas-Sized TeamworkSan Antonio Marriott Rivercenter Ballroom is luxurious, tech-centric.By jim stokesStep aside, action heroes! Your missions to thwart evil and restore the planetare nothing compared to the heroic tasks undertaken by a super AV designand install team. Appropriately, the action took place in Texas, for it was a trulyTexas-style project. As an overview, here are the project guidelines (see “ThirdFloor Renovation: A Corporate View” for more details).• Renovate a 42,000-square-foot ballroom on the third floor of the San AntonioMarriott Rivercenter (SAMRC) hotel.• Design and build a ballroom “open ceiling.”• Coordinate AV, architecture, engineering, lighting and signage.• Complete construction in just under 10 weeks over Fall and Winter holidays.Coordination Is KeyWithin this project list, it’s certainly an understatement that coordination wasthe key to complete the ballroom AV renovation successfully. So, we’ll explorethe collaboration as well as the AV install. Before that, let’s set the scene.The 38-story hotel is located on thefamed Paseo del Rio, or River Walk,a huge business, entertainment andtourist attraction. Other notable cityattractions include the Alamo, themeparks, San Antonio Spurs basketballand several militar y installations.Related, this writer recalls being stationedat Fort Sam Houston in San Antoniofor Army medic and dental trainingat Brooke Army Medical Centerin the early 1960s. At that time, theRiver Walk was off limits at night tomilitary personnel. Several decadeslater, our family drove across Texasfrom Alamogordo NM and rediscov-Sound & Communications Contributing Editor Jim Stokes has been involved in the AV industry for more than 30 yearsas an AV technician and writer.54 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

ered the River Walk where, as today,it’s the place for a pleasant stroll, dayor night, amid business and entertainmentpursuits.Open OpportunityAccording to an overview of theballroom AV renovation from RTKLAssociates design consultants, themost dynamic design feature of theproject is the ballroom “open ceiling.”The ceiling is completely open to thestructure above, and all componentsare suspended within. These componentsinclude drywall forms, HVACductwork, fire sprinklers, decorativeand architectural lighting, audio speakersand acoustical treatment.Although the open ceiling providedthe property with tremendous flexibility,it also posed many challenges tothe team, the greatest of which wasthat the design and all elements ofthe ceiling had to be completely coordinatedin advance. The schedule allowedno time to work out any conflictsduring construction. The design andimplementation of this ceiling is thecenterpiece of the project and was theresult of strong collaboration.Specific CriteriaNow let’s take a look at specific criteria.• Design: Regarding what meetsthe eyes of ballroom visitors, the designfeatures a graceful composition ofarcs on two levels. The pattern unifiesthe asymmetrical three- and four-bayoverlapping Salon (individual room)layouts. Integrated into the drywallforms are $1 million in unique, customchandeliers. Considerable effortwas required to ensure that the linesof the drywall forms precisely followedthe arcs of the chandeliers. Irregularwall elevations and soffits at existingdoor openings were manipulated withnew framing and millwork to providefocal points and unify the elevations.• MEP Integration: HVAC ductworkwas routed through the drywallframing carefully, and virtually disappearsfrom view. Fire sprinklers weredirectly integrated into the chandeliersand are “hidden in plain sight.”Before exploring audio and acoustics,Although the open ceilingprovided tremendousflexibility, it also posedmany challengesto the team.October 2008 55©2008 RTKL.com/David Whitcomb

we’ll introduce our three interviewees.Up ahead, there’ll be the viewpoints ofGonzalo Rodriguez, AV design consultant,RTKL, Baltimore MD; Tim Penny,senior account manager, The WhitlockGroup (TWG), Dallas TX; and KeithOrdoyne, director of event technology(AV), Marriott Rivercenter.Sound and sound control were majorconsiderations in project integration.Consequently, RTKL’s special systemsteam created a custom loudspeaker.According to Rodriguez, “We lookedat a lot of options when it came to thespeakers, [such as] taking the driverout of one product and putting it intoa custom box that a manufacturercould make for us. We’re looking at120 speakers, so we wanted somethingthat was low profile with coverage thatwasn’t just a big rectangle: a big boxup in the air. The [existing] speakersystem was easily 12 years old and stillfunctioned well, so even that was anoption at one point.“The [final] option was the Tan-Third FloorRenovation:A Corporate ViewHost Hotels and Resorts, headquarteredin Bethesda MD, awarded RTKLAssociates design consultants thethird-floor renovation project at its SanAntonio Marriott Rivercenter property.The entire area features 91,000 squarefeet of meeting and assembly space, includinga 42,000-square-foot ballroom,10,000 square feet of pre-function, 19conference rooms, four convention-sizedrestrooms, two registration desks, theelevator lobby and about 10,000 squarefeet of corridor.The goal was to produce a design forthe third most profitable Host-ownedMarriott in the United States. The Rivercenteris owned jointly by Host andMarriott, so both groups—with differentaesthetics—would be evaluating RTKL’swork and providing conflicting direction.Because it was considered a “big deal”project by both owners, that meant extrascrutiny would be levied by more individuals.RTKL’s stringent criteria included: producethe design from schematics throughconstruction documents in nine months;coordinate numerous disciplines, includingarchitecture, interior design, MEPengineering, structural engineering, audio,video, telecom, acoustics, lighting,signage and ADA; bring a 22-year-oldbuilding and its systems up to currentcode and ADA compliance.And the ringer was that there was awindow of only 68 calendar days forconstruction; that’s just under 10 weeks.Through an extraordinary collaborativeeffort, the project was not only a greatdesign success, but was also completedon time and under budget.Understanding the importance of thisproperty, the team set out to create adynamic “Texas-sized” statement, withthe ballroom being its centerpiece. Eachmember of the team worked in concertunder the direction of both the RTKLMiami office and Pace Management.Numerous site visits, detailed field reportsand weekly conference calls keptall parties aware of each other’s progress.By staying focused, the team wasable to stay on schedule and overcomemany hurdles, not least of which was asubstantial VE (value engineering) exercise.

EquipmentBALLROOM EQUIPMENT ROOMAudio6 Biamp AudiaFLEX CM 24x24 DSP w/CobraNet37 Biamp IP2 DSP input cards31 Biamp OP2e DSP output cards4 Bittree B 96DC-FNPIT/E3 M2OU12B audiopatchbays, normalized1 Clear-Com MS-702 intercom base station1 Denon DCM-290P 5-disc CD changer2 Lab.gruppen C 10:4X 4-channel amps4 Lab.gruppen C 16:4 4-, 5-speaker zone amps1 Lab.gruppen C 20:8X 2-, 3-speaker zone amp1 Lab.gruppen C 28:4 6-speaker zone amp1 Lab.gruppen C 28:4 pre-function amp1 Lab.gruppen C 20:8X BGM amp12 RDL STP-1 universal audio attenuators-2 channel2 RDL ST-MX2 2 mic or line input mixers1 Symetrix 581e audio distribution amp1 TOA Electronics MP-1216 rackmount audio monitorVideo1 Bittree B48T-1WNHD video patch panel (WECO), 2x24, composite1 Bittree B24S-1WNHD video patch panel (WECO), 1x24, compositeControl1 Biamp Logic Box programmable logic input/output box1 Crestron TPS-15LB Isys 15" wall-mount touchpanel w/rackmount kit1 Crestron C2N-SPWS300 300W Cresnet power supply1 Crestron MC2E compact control system w/Ethernet2 Crestron CNTBLOCK Cresnet expansion modulesMisc.1 APC SMART-UPSAudio Accessories audio patch cablesBittree video patch cables15 EE Controls SH5.04-MSW speaker relays1 Linksys EF3116 Ethernet switch for CobraNet w/fiber port, fiber card1 Linksys EF3116 Ethernet switch for control4 Middle Atlantic WRK-44-32 equipment racks w/accessoriesFUNCTION SPACESpeakers120 Tannoy V12 type-1, 12" dual-concentric speakers, 70V, 60W w/brackets (Ballroom)7 Tannoy CMS12 TDC-60 12" recessed speakers, 70V, 60W (Ballroom)20 Tannoy CVS 4 4" ceiling recessed speakers, 70V (Elevator, Lobby, Restrooms)106 Tannoy CVS 6 6" ceiling recessed speakers, 70V (Pre-function)6 Tannoy CVS 6 6" ceiling recessed speakers, 70V (Meeting Room 5)Control12 Crestron TPS-4LW wall controls (Ballroom Salons)1 Crestron TPS-4LW wall control (Pre-function)Cable, Connectors, Misc.1 Whirlwind B2404XLW6CRP(O) 24-in, 4-return stage box1 Whirlwind B0424XLW6CRP(O) 24-out, 4-send stage box2 Whirlwind C2815W6IRP(I)W6IRP(O) C-series multi-line cable assembliesList is edited from information supplied by The Whitlock Group.©2008 RTKL.com/David WhitcombThe new audiovisual systemserving the Grand Ballroom isnow more reliable, requiresless maintenance and givesMarriott more flexibility in roomconfigurations.noy V12 with just a 60-watttransformer added. And thebox was already painted black.Then I knew that, sonically,that speaker was going to beamazing in there. They’re highperformance. They’ll be ableto give [the hotel] the opportunityto use less of an audiorental system.” In addition tothe V12s, there are also sevenCMS12s in the ballroom. Variousother areas have CVS 4s and6s installed.Speakers are driven by Lab.gruppenamplifiers. “We know that they’rereliable,” he said. “People take theseon the road. In these kinds of spaces,they can’t afford to have a problem andhave somebody come out there in themiddle of an event.” Another factorwas price. “Financially, they give usthe best dollar value per output channel.That, on top of reliability, justmade sense.” Whitlock’s Tim Pennyemphasized, “The Lab.gruppen wasone of the main amplifiers that hadenough power as a 70-volt multiplechannelsystem for the different zones.For example, the pre-function [area]amplifier was 700 watts per channel,and there were four channels!”Twenty-Foot SpaceWe’ve certainly emphasized the collaborationbetween all the disciplines.And now it’s time to talk about a huge20-foot space above the ceiling panels,which was formerly acoustically tiled.“Once the ceiling was opened, therewas the threat of increasing the reverberation,”said Rodriguez. “MelvinSaunders, [RTKL’s] acoustics personfrom the Dallas office, recommendedwe use black Lapendary panels. So, everythingis hidden up there. The panelshelp reduce reverberation time andincrease speech intelligibility.” Thus,the panels covered the entire ceilingand provided acoustical control and aclean appearance. The result was uni-58 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

form audio coverage and high output,high fidelity sound reproduction.Now, let’s flash back to the largeinput/output plates handily locatedthroughout the ballroom in wall andfloor boxes. The operator has an extensivechoice of mic and line levelwith audio tie lines, video tie linesand CATV lines, intercom, DMX andUTP/fiber. It’s an example of the AVsystem’s flexibility in accommodatinga wide range of equipment.Integrator ChallengesAccording to Whitlock’s Tim Penny,two key personnel from the Austin officehelped make the project a success.“Ferrell Wood, senior project manager,ran the whole show to ensure it wasdone on time and tested correctly.We were doing the Alamodome atthe same time [as the Rivercenter]. Itwas perfect timing in that, when wefinished that project, we were able tomove Ferrell and his crew over to theThe Grand Ballroom’s open ceilingdesign posed an interesting challenge,affecting both acoustical and audioMarriott project.” Penny also notedSound&Comm Aug Ad-4.875 x 7.25" 7/14/08 system 10:53 designs. AM Page 1©2008 RTKL.com/David Whitcombthat the DSP and all the audio setupwas done by engineer Rich Williams,national director of service. “He wentto the hotel to program and EQ allthe different zones. And it took a longtime. That was a huge portion of thisproject. The DSP and EQing of the systemwere definitely one of the mainchallenges.”Penny declared that the third floorballroom’s vast 42,000-square-footspace itself presented a challenge tothe integrator. “The most difficult andchallenging [task] was installing all thespeakers. The ceiling went up about20 feet high, so we had to use twospecial man lifts. We had to run wiresand cabling to the back control amproom. That was the bulk of our time.We reused a lot of [the facility’s] existingequipment.” (See Keith Ordoyne’scomments later.)He added, “Thirty trades were workingin the ballroom. AV installers arealways the last people to go into a constructionproject. Because of the elec-Widescreen Goes Bigscreen!In Your Choice of Imaging Technology.LC-W56,000 Lumens, 3 LCDEIP-WX50005,200 Lumens, 3 DLP ®Now affordable High Definition projectionat WXGA/720p resolution, is availablefor large audience applications, in both3 LCD and 3 DLP ® imaging technology.2345Projectors... and more!For more information aboutEIKI ProAV Projectorsplease call 1-800-932-8703or visit http://www.eiki.com.October 2008 59

©2008 RTKL.com/David WhitcombThe loudspeakers integrate well withall of the ceiling elements, includingthe drywall lattice, lighting fixtures,sprinklers, HVAC system and theacoustic lapendary banners, providing aclean ceiling appearance.&C_Half_Page_Hor_Bleed.qxp 5/16/2008 9:46 AM Page 1RTKL AssociatesRTKL Associates is an architecture, engineering, planning and creative services organizationthat employs more than 1100 professionals worldwide. It was founded in 1946 as a two-manoffice in Annapolis MD. In 2007, RTKL became a wholly owned subsidiary of ARCADIS-US(www.arcadis-us.com). It’s an idea-driven firm that provides innovative customized businesssolutions and seamless delivery to clients in commercial, cultural and governmental realms.RTKL offers a comprehensive range of services, including planning and urban designlandscape architecture; interior architecture and design protective planning; environmentalgraphic design and sustainable design; MEP engineering healthcare technologies; structuralengineering brand building; special systems design workplace anthropology, and historicpreservation.RTKL has worked in more than 50 countries on four continents. Offices are located inBaltimore, Chicago, Dallas, London, Los Angeles, Madrid, Miami, Shanghai, Tokyo andWashington DC.For more information, go to www.rtkl.com.tronics, we have to work in a dust-freeenvironment. My guys had to maneuverbetween people and those lifts. Butwe went through and did it successfully.The customer is very happy.”Custom ProgrammingWhitlock put in Biamp AudiaFLEXDSP with the CobraNet connection device.Each of the 12 ballroom Salonshas its own programmed custom-codeCrestron wallmount touchpanel. And,there’s a 15-inch Crestron-mountedscreen in the rack room. Regardingthe Salon motif, Penny explained thatthe ballroom can be broken up intolittle rooms and more, via touchpanel.“You can combine and un-combine theAll-in-One Headsetor Beltpac OptionsWe’re sendinga clear signal.The DX Series is the proven,future-proof, digital system.License-free and requiringno frequency coordination,the secure DX Series canWS200 WirelessSpeaker Stationsupport single or twochannel requirements.Call today or visit our website:1-866-352-8569 | www.HMEDX.com

The Whitlock Group (TWG)The Whitlock Group (TWG) is a $135 million US-based systems integration firm focusedon the design, procurement, engineering, installation and service of audiovisual, videoconferencing,video-streaming, digital signage, video-production and broadcast solutions.As a systems integration firm, TWG delivers complete solutions that seamlessly integratethe audio, video, display and system controls to create unique and compelling multimediasolutions.TWG is an authorized representative of more than 400 product lines. By offering such alarge range of choices, The Whitlock Group can design and deliver systems tailored to bestfit customers’ specific needs and applications.The Whitlock Group has developed an impressive portfolio of projects, including turnkeybroadcast and production facilities, presentation systems, network operations centers,business videoconferencing centers and electronic boardrooms.Earlier this year, The Whitlock Group announced creation of an alliance with Impact,Europe’s largest integrator.For additional information, go to www.whitlock.com.rooms via the smaller Crestrons, or goto the back rack large Crestron andcontrol everything from there.”For example, the hotel’s AV managercan go to the back rack and control everythingfrom that location, to avoid interruptingthe meeting rooms. Anotherexample would be setting up receptionon one end of the ballroom and a corporatemeeting on the other end.Giving some insight into room use,he noted that the area typically isused for meetings and corporate-typefunctions. Apparently, it’s constantlybooked. “We completed this project inJanuary [2008] and they’ve been usingit probably every day.” Furthermore,reconfigurable spaces such as theserely heavily on portable and rental systems.They have to be flexible. Suchis the case at Rivercenter. We’ll getmore insight into how AV is used viathe hotel’s AV department next.Old And New AV InterfaceBefore visiting the Marriott’s AVdepartment, some further credits arein order. Steve McGuire is director ofengineering at the property. RTKL’sRodriguez offered, “Steve is like thehead engineer. He and his peoplewere just amazing. Communicationwas great. From the very beginning,I really felt that we were all workingtoward a common goal.” Another pluswas that McGuire had a direct conduitto upper management of the hotel.As mentioned, the AV department’sdirector is Keith Ordoyne, who workswith operations manager Tim Wheeler.According to Ordoyne, the new installis working out well with the Crestrontouchscreen.Because the new Biamp DSP was putOctober 2008 6145750_Stardraw_S&C_Ap.indd 1 19/4/08 11:51:17

RTKL and TheWhitlock Groupprovided an audiosystem capable ofhigh output, highfidelity reproductionand uniform coveragewithin the GrandBallroom. Thisimproved audioperformance reducesMarriott’s need forcommon portable andrental equipment.Paul Bardagjyinto many Marriotts, Ordoyne wentthrough a four-hour class before thesystem was installed in Rivercenter.“So, when [Whitlock] installed it, itwasn’t new to us,” he said. “We haveaccess to DSP through a laptop computerif we have to go in and makemodifications. But the system is finethe way it is now.”Although Crestron allows accessto everything in the AV system, henoted that the Bittree audio and videopatchbays allow for redundancy with a“patch for everything in case the systemshould go down.”However, Crestron normally is usedfor a multitude of applications, suchas merging rooms and killing tablespeaker feeds, background music andvolume controls.Chip Works BestRegarding the new install interfacingwith existing AV technology, he saidthat the hotel’s rack-mounted AlcornMcBride video player was connectedto the Crestron to run advertisingvideos on hotel channels. “We usedto put it on DVD players, but theyjust wouldn’t hold up: We’d burn upDVD players every couple of months.So, we went with the Alcorn McBridechip, where we put the video on theWall-mountedtouchpanelslocatedthroughout theGrand Ballroom’s13 differentSalons giveMarriott a greatdeal of flexibilityand control.It’s certainly anunderstatement thatcoordination was the key tocomplete the ballroom AVrenovation successfully.chip and it automatically repeats. Previously,the disc would have to take itstime. But the chip endlessly repeats.When the new AV system was put in,they hooked the Alcorn McBride controlsup to the Crestron touchpanel.It’s very user-friendly.”Specifically regarding the hotel-originatedfeeds to the rooms, Ordoyneexplained that the channels have multipleuses. In addition to advertisingthe facility’s restaurants via endlessloops, certain conventions are covered.For example, when the State Bar ofTexas comes in, the hotel’s AV crewsets up cameras and tapes the event.Then the advertising would be takenoff and the meeting proceedings fedto all the TVs in the guest rooms andhotel monitors.There’s an existing Extron matrixswitcher in the equipment rack, aswell, which feeds the monitors in theMarriott Rivercenter and the MarriottRiverwalk Hotel across the street. So,there are fiber tie lines that allow sendingdigital signage or other AV acrossthe street to the Riverwalk. n©2008 RTKL.com/David Whitcomb62 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

This video “chandelier” in the firstfloor main dining area of the JohnStreet restaurant features threetiers of four 32-inch, 26-inch and22-inch displays stacked on acustom-built mount.Food, Fun And AVJack Astor’s Bar & Grill serves up signage and more in downtown Toronto.By Dawn AllcotWhen patrons walk through the firstfloorentrance of Jack Astor’s Bar &Grill on John Street in downtown Toronto,an LCD chandelier featuring 24displays of three different sizes maybe the first thing to catch their eyes.Or it might be the two, six-screen-highvideo towers visible from the first floordining rooms and second-floor bars.Visitors may pause to absorb theshort snippets of video—custom-programmedclips branded “Jack-TV”—orto watch a yo-yo roll up and down theheight of the video towers. They maynod in recognition at a Honeymoonersclip on one of the wall-mounted monitors,or giggle as cute, colorful animalspop up in the corners of the towers.Creativity WorksIf any of these things happens, thenthe Jack Astor’s team, including CEOPeter Fowler or Steve Fletcher, vicepresident of development for SIR Corp.,the restaurant chain’s parent company,has done its creative job. Likewise forthe design and installation team at Toronto,Canada-based ET Group, whichincluded senior system designer FrankKoka, partner/vice president DirkPropfe and lead technician RennieNickson, who all worked closely withthe client to implement a high-tech creativevision incorporating high-qualityaudio systems with innovative digitalsignage and control solutions.“Peter Fowler, our CEO, is the drivingforce behind the audiovisual focusof this company,” Steve Fletcher toldSound & Communications. Fletcher wasfamiliar with ET Group’s work throughother restaurants he had worked for inthe past, and knew the company wouldbe a good fit in the Jack Astor’s chain,with its focus on AV technology to createan atmosphere. “It was a very cooperativerelationship,” Fletcher said.ET Group has installed and designedsystems in seven Jack Astor’s locationsto date, including the John Streetrestaurant and a newly revampedSquare One location (see sidebar).Of the John Street project, Fletchertold us, “We had strong design ideasDawn Allcot is a freelance writer specializing in the audiovisual and health and fitness industries.64 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

about the space, and the team at ETGroup knew that. They rarely said,‘No, that can’t be done.’ They found away to do it.”The project includes 72 LCD screens,three projectors and 60 speakers routedto 11 different audio zones. All AVis controlled by a user-friendly Crestronsystem, and digital signage contentis managed through a DynamicMessaging System from ADFLOWNetworks.Focus On FunJack Astor’s Bar & Grill is owner SIRCorp.’s largest restaurant chain, with27 locations across the United Statesand Canada. Described as an “uppercasual” bar and grill, the chain differentiatesitself from competitors withquality food and service, and a fun atmosphereenhanced by AV.“If you were to distill our conceptdown to one word, it would be ‘fun’,”Fletcher said. “It’s reflected in the mediamaterial we use on the televisionscreens, the music, the specials andthe parties we have. Even the t-shirtsour servers wear are a little irreverent,funny, a bit edgy.”The new 14,000-square-foot JohnStreet location, which draws a young,hip demographic of club-goers andtheater patrons in downtown Toronto,is one of three flagship restaurantsin the chain. All three flagshipvenues are within 15 minuteswalking distance of one anotherwithin Toronto’s downtown core, buteach has unique characteristics andcaters to a specific demographic.The John Street restaurant was constructedfrom three large, adjacent,warehouse-style buildings originallyerected in the late 1800s or early 1900sthat, according to Fletcher, “were knittedtogether with a variety of architecturalfeatures that warranted moreexploitation than they’d had before.There was a good opportunity to dosomething different with the space.”Design ChallengesThe building’s architecture posedsome design challenges to convert thespace into a 21 st century eatery, completewith technology to keep diners en-These video ribbons (videowalls) inthe first floor bar at Jack Astor’sJohn Street restaurant face anidentical set of 46-inch slim bezelLCD monitors.October 2008 65

EXPERIENCEthe next generation of theindustry standardtertained while they enjoy food and beveragesor wait for a table. “The building,originally, was quite broken up,”Fletcher explained. “One of the ideaswas to open it up so, when you walkedin, you got a sense of everything thatwas there, even though there would besome surprises around corners.”Patrons enter through the centerdoorway and can go straight aheadthrough the dining area, where theywill encounter a hanging LCD chandelier,or turn to the right to find alarge, open dining area. To the leftof the entryway sit a series of interwovendining areas, separated byarched openings, and a larger, moreprivate dining room that boasts askylight.A large staircase also resides to theleft of the entrance, leading to thesmaller second floor, the location oftwo bars with a connecting bridge betweenthem. The bridge has openingsDigitalBinloop HD8 High Definition videoplayers in one small box!Video outputs are HDMI,Component and HD–SDIOptional CobraNet ® digitalaudio network outputControllable via RS–232,Ethernet and MIDISMPTE and GenlockOrlando, Florida407.296.5800info@alcorn.comwww.alcorn.comSame Chain, Different Concept:Jack Astor’s Square OneDuring the same timeframe that construction and installation were being completed atJack Astor’s John Street, the ET Group crew also completed a renovation of the audiovisualsystems at Jack Astor’s Square One location in Mississauga (City Centre), Ontario,a suburban area.“They are both radically different concepts in restaurants,” said ET Group’sKoka. “Aside from the fact that we are delivering high-definition video signalsto a variety of locations, the layout of the systems was completely different.”In spite of the eateries being part of the same chain, the design concepts were quitedifferent. The budget for the single-story, 7000-square-foot Square One location was$175,000, and as much equipment as possible was re-used.Because Square One was an operating restaurant at the time of the redesign, much ofthe work was completed at night over the course of two months. The restaurant closed foronly 10 days, celebrating its grand reopening on July 9, 2008. Time constraints, combinedwith the need to use as much of the old equipment as possible in order to cut costs, werethe primary challenges at the Square One venue.The atmosphere in Square One is more typical of what one might expect in an uppercasual eatery in a regional shopping mall area, with a dining room to the front and left ofthe main entrance, and a bar to the right. But the emphasis on “eye candy” and AV thatadds to the atmosphere remains.One of the restaurant’s distinguishing AV features is a 3x3 video display wall behindthe bar, with five additional screens coming off each side of the main display, like wings,for a total of 19 NEC 4020-2-AV 40-inch professional LCD screens in that fixture alone.ET Group designed the custom curved metalwork to mount the LCDs. Four additional40-inch NEC ceiling-mounted LCDs hang at either end of the bar.Another 2x2 videowall sits at the entryway.Finally, the dining room boasts 10 video towers, each with two Samsung 17-inch LCDmonitors. Jack-TV programming is “checkerboarded” across the room on these towers.The video towers were a feature in Square One prior to the renovation, but old 13-inchCRT monitors were switched out for the new LCDs.The audio system was also revamped, with Tannoy CMS501 compact ceiling speakersand CMS801 subs. Crown CTs4200a four-channel amps power the system.Perhaps the most significant upgrade in Square One is the addition of a Crestron controlsystem. “The client chose to revamp the location because the technology wasn’t upto par with the new sites we’ve been completing,” ET Group’s Propfe explained. “Nothingwas automated, and there were lots of separate remote controls. Now everything iscontrolled through Crestron touchpanels located strategically throughout the restaurant.”The Crestron controller and a Kramer VP 8X8 matrix switcher allow the client to switchthe 3x3 videowall from individual images to full-screen display with the touch of onebutton.“After having to operate a system that involved lots of remotes and switches, the staffat Square One can’t believe how easy the new system is,” Propfe said.66 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

Custom-built frames make these 22-inch flatscreenLCD monitors fit in among static framedpictures on the wall at Square One.on each side looking down to the first floor, connectingthe space vertically. Four impressive, 6x2 video towerscomprised of 42-inch NEC LCD displays sit on either sideof the bridge, spanning both floors of the venue.Fletcher painted a verbal picture of the scene: “If you’restanding on the bridge, looking in either direction, you’relooking at these towers, two on each side. If you’re downstairs,the video tower draws your eye up; if you’re upstairs,it draws your eye down.”Additional “eye candy” is provided by a series of 46-inch NEC wall-hanging monitors, which alternate withartwork on the dining room walls and broadcast fun imagesfrom “Jack-TV.”Video ChallengesFrank Koka, of ET Group, cited the video chandelier,with three tiers of eight displays each, facing in all fourdirections, as one of the key challenges to the video systemdesign and implementation, simply because it hadnever been done before. “With three tiers of displaysranging in size from 22 to 32 inches, we had to find threedisplays with the same aesthetic look,” Koka commented.October 2008 67

“On top of that, we had to conceptualize how we were goingto make the hardware and hang it safely.”NEC monitors were selected for their clean, simple lookand square bezel, which allows the monitors to fit togetherneatly in both the chandelier and the videowalls.Four video source inputs from the ADFLOW NetworksDynamic Messaging System are routed through a XantechMS1 IR distribution amp and the Crestron CP2E system,and sent to the 24 displays. Jack Astor’s staff can updatethe ADFLOW programming via LAN from any laptop on theJack Astor’s network.Fletcher said that it was important to be able to uploadand change content remotely. The content was designedby Artisan Complete, a Markham, Ontario, Canada-basedfirm that provides strategic direction, creative development,in-house production, fulfillment and managementof original signage, display and digital signage solutions.The same system is used to feed content to the videowalls.With a budget of $250,000 for AV, ET Group worked withthe client to devise some cost-cutting measures. Fletchernoted, “As a restaurant business, we like to do things ina big way, but we also like to do them as inexpensivelyMake Acoustics Part of Your ScopeBecome an authorized RPG contractorDiffusion, Absorption, Optimized Canopies & TowersRPG Diffusor Systems, Inc.www.rpginc.com 301-249-0044ET GroupToronto, Canada-based ET Group has been in business formore than 30 years, designing, supplying and installing AV solutionsthroughout North America and overseas, spanning asfar as the Dominican Republic, Belgium, Norway and Australia.SIR Corp., the parent company of Jack Astor’s Bar & Grill alongwith Canyon Creek Chophouse and Alice Fazooli’s Italian Grill, isa regular client of the full-service AV design and installation firm.Return customers and strong word-of-mouth sales have contributedsignificantly to ET Group’s success throughout the company’shistory. “Our priority is in meeting the business needs of the client,”Propfe said of ET Group’s customer service philosophy. “Eventhough we’re designing the system, we have to design it aroundwhat’s most important to them.”ET Group’s client list includes high-end audio integration andvideoconferencing in the corporate market, well-known names inhospitality such as the Marriott and Hyatt hotel chains, as well ashospitals, fitness centers, retail locations and more.Recent projects include a complete audiovisual design andinstallation for boardrooms, conference rooms and theaters inTeknion’s new world headquarters based in Toronto, and the installationof AV systems, employee communication systems andvideoconference systems in Xstrata’s Canadian Head Office.ET Group currently has 24 employees, and is a member of InfoCommand AES. The AV design, installation, sales, service andrental firm is currently headquartered on Front Street in Toronto,but is looking at plans for expansion in 2009.For more information, go to www.etideas.com.68 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

The Jack Astor’sSquare One main barvideowall array is in a3x3 configuration, withfive 40-inch displays oneach wing.This new Jack Astor’srestaurant in Toronto islocated on John Street,which has recentlyemerged as one of thecity’s most vibrant areasfor entertainment andnightlife.as possible.” Koka added, “We had to balancecost, complexity and flexibility with the digitalsignage system.”Originally, the client wanted to be able to integratethe images across the videowalls horizontally,as well as vertically, so a single imagewould span the two towers on each side.Functional SolutionBy combining the distribution amp withthe DMS videowall processor and the Crestronsystem, and integrating the images verticallyonly, the integrator was able to forgoa more expensive videowall processing unit.“They needed a box with six outputs for thesix screens, and then we just DA it out to theother three videowall locations, so one processoris being replicated four times,” ET Group’sPropfe explained.Through the Crestron system, the screensA Winning Combination ofAV Control SolutionsThe best AV systems feature an intuitiveinterface that never lets the technology standin the way of the message. Our MultiTouchtouch panel controllers and our modular,freely configurable MultiTasker are theheart of many sophisticated AV systems.Combined with our AVSnap system designtool, configuring the system and defining theend user experience is, well, a snap! For yournext system, think Altinex and our winningcombination of AV control solutions.www.altinex.com• 1-800-ALTINEX (258-4639)October 2008 69

EquipmentThe video tower in JackAstor’s Square One diningroom has two towers of 17-inch monitors.JOHN STREETVideo (First Floor)2 NEC ASPV46-AVT 46" LCD displays (dining rooms)2 Samsung LN32A450 32" LCD displays (dining rooms)6 Samsung 17" SyncMaster 720n LCD monitors (dining rooms)Video Chandelier8 Samsung LN22A450 22" LCD displays8 Samsung LN26A450 26" LCD displays8 Samsung LN32A450 32" LCD displays (2 nd /3 rd ceiling vaults)1 Samsung LN52A530P1FXZC 52" LCD display (private dining room)Audio (First Floor)12 JBL Control 26CT ceiling speakers (dining room 1)8 JBL Control 226C/T ceiling speakers (dining 2, 3)2 JBL Control 26CT ceiling speakers (dining 4)2 JBL Control 25 2-way 5" speaker surface mounts (dining 5)4 JBL Control 28 2-way 8" speaker surface mounts (lower bar)4 JBL Control 24CT/Micro ceiling speakers (washrooms/vestibule)2 Tannoy iw62 TS in-wall subs (bulkhead)10 Tannoy i8AW all-weather speakers (patio)Video (Second Floor)12 Commercial 1 C14606 46" LCD displays (main bar)3 Commercial 1 C14606 46" LCD displays (lounge)1 Draper Targa 120" motorized projection screen1 Mitsubishi WL639 widescreen video/data projector24 NEC LCD46 20-2-IT 46" pro LCD displaysAudio (Second Floor)4 JBL Control 29AV full range speakers (bar)4 JBL Control SB210 subwoofers (lounge and bar)4 JBL 4215 2-way speakers (lounge)10 Tannoy i8AW all-weather speakers (patio)Main Rack Video Processing16 Aten VS94 VGA DAs7 Audio Authority video scalers2 Kramer VP8x8 VGA routers1 Kramer VS-801xlm composite video preview switcher12 Minicom Advanced broadcaster 1x8 Cat5 modulators63 Minicom Advanced remote Cat5 receivers2 TASCAM DV-D01U pro DVD playersMain Rack Audio Processing2 Biamp Nexia SC digital audio processors1 Crown CTS-3000 power amp1 Crown CTS-2000 power amp1 Crown CTS-600 power amp1 Crown CTS8200 power amp1 QSC RMX-1450 power ampControl2 Crestron TPS-4000L 10" color LCD touchpanels1 Crestron CP2E room control processor1 Crestron WPR-48 waterproof remote1 Crestron CNRFGWA R wireless receiver1 D-Link WiFi wireless router1 Samsung 15" LCD monitor4 Xantech 789-44 IR distribution amps54 Xantech 282M IR emittersRack2 Middle Atlantic ERK-4425 rack w/accessoriesSQUARE ONEDisplays (Bar)23 NEC LCD4020-2-IT 40" pro LCD displays w/mounting bracketsDisplays (Dining Room)4 NEC LCD4620-2-IT 46" LCD displays w/wallmount brackets20 Samsung 17" SyncMaster 720n LCD monitorsw/mounting brackets5 Samsung LN26A530 26" LCD displays w/wallmount bracketsVideo Processing8 Aten VS94 4-port VGA video splitters7 Audio Authority 1365 PC/HDTV video converters2 Kramer VP-8x8 8x8 computer graphics video matrix switchers1 Kramer VS-801xlm 8x1 composite video, stereo audio switcher12 Minicom Advanced broadcaster 1x8 Cat5 modulators50 Minicom Advanced remote Cat5 receivers1 TASCAM DV-D01U pro DVD playerAudio Processing1 Biamp Nexia SC digital audio processor1 Crown CTs4200a 4-ch./200W/70V power amp(main dining, patio)Provo speaker wire1 Shure SLX24/SM58 wireless mic12 Tannoy CMS501 DC PI ceiling speakers w/back cans2 Tannoy CMS801 ceiling speaker subwoofers4 Tannoy CVS4 4" ceiling speakersControl1 Crestron TPS-4000L 10" color LCD touchpanel w/rack mount1 Crestron CP2E room control processor1 Crestron WPR-48 waterproof remote1 Crestron CNRFGWA R wireless receiver1 D-Link WiFi wireless router1 Samsung 15" LCD monitor1 Xantech 282M IR emitter36 Xantech 789-44 IR distribution ampsRack1 Middle Atlantic ERK-4425-AV equipment rack bundleList is edited from information supplied by ET Group.70 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

can also display unique content fromany source, including sporting eventsthrough the HD network. “They canbring up a big sporting event in anycombination on those displays and,with the press of one button, flip itback to digital signage,” Koka said.The client reused an older projectorto display images on a brick wall formore “eye candy” on the first floor.The second-floor bar features multiple46-inch displays from Commercial1, which hang throughout the bar areaand receive content from any sourcethrough the Crestron system.Although cutting costs was important,the client did not compromise onthe use of HD throughout the venue.High-definition bandwidth signal isdelivered over Cat5 to each display.“When you invest the type of moneythe client was spending, you want tomake sure you’re future proof,” Propfesaid. “They’re not a sports bar, per se,but they play a lot of sports, and theyhave the HD signal.”High-Quality AudioThroughoutA tight budget and the need for highqualityaudio characterized the mainchallenges in the audio portion of theinstallation, along with acoustical challengeson the lower level, which is separatedinto distinct, yet interconnected,dining areas. “The directive was to givethe client even coverage and a nice fullsound through ceiling speakers,” Kokasaid. “They want to be able to take itup to the rock ‘n’ roll level.”The Crestron system divides thespace into 11 different audio zones,each of which can be balanced independently.Multiple JBL 226C/T ceilingspeakers were specified for thedining areas, with a suspended ceilingand generous space above. On theother side of the first-floor dining area,which has limited space above the ceiling,smaller JBL Control 26CTs and26CT/Micros were installed, spreadacross the area for even coverage.Tannoy iW62 TS in-wall subs were usedin the dining area, where ceiling spacewas also limited, for low-end sound.The upstairs bars feature a combinationof Control 26CTs and 26CTMicros, placed in the corners aroundthe perimeter of the bars for the bestcoverage. JBL Control SB210s provideadded low-end upstairs.“The bar area system is more likea large PA dance system,” Koka said.“We have much higher SPL and large,exposed speakers with subwoofers.”Control SystemRounding out the client’s needs fora high-tech, yet user-friendly, AV networkis the Crestron system, whichuses a CP2E controller, a CNRFGWAR wireless RF transmitter, CNANT RFantenna, two TPS-4000L touchpanelsand a WPR-48 waterproof remote togive the manager-on-duty control of allvideo sources and audio sources andvolume. “Even though these are highlycomplex systems,” Propfe said, “ourmandate is to make it easy to use.”The integrator provided trainingon the customized control system forJack Astor’s personnel. Propfe said,“Though we provide the user manual,people rarely refer to it. You just standin front of the control panel and it’svery straightforward.”Fletcher is pleased with the controlsystem, and the fact that it is similaracross venues, so personnel can becross-trained to work at any of thechain’s locations outfitted with the system.“There are probably six or sevenpeople in each restaurant capable ofrunning the show,” he said. “The interfaceis graphically simple and intuitive;it represents the restaurant in a wayanyone can recognize.”Fletcher added that he was pleasedwith the training and after-the-sale supportprovided by ET Group. The completedesign and implementation of theaudiovisual, digital signage and controlsystems took about three monthsto complete, and Jack Astor’s JohnStreet location celebrated its grandopening in July 2008. “I was awareof ET Group’s capabilities because Ihad worked with the company in thepast,” Fletcher said. “When I came toSIR Corp. and Jack Astor’s, and sawwhat focus was placed on audiovisual,I knew ET Group would be capable ofdoing what we needed.”nFull Discount Wholesaleis the premier supplier ofProfessional Audio, Video,A/V and Lighting equipmentto resellers and contractors.FDW Offers:Extensive InventoryLow Cost ShippingNo Minimum OrderHundreds of the Top BrandsFriendly, Experienced Sales ProsExceptional Customer ServiceBlind Drop Ship Capability

Even surrounded by a “busy”environment, the TGI Fridays(E. Erie Street, Chicago)system gains viewership.OnSite Network, Inc.‘Signs’ Of The FutureDigital Signage offers lucrative opportunities in the hospitality segment.By Dan WynneToday’s consumers have come toexpect a highly visual experience inevery aspect of dining, shopping andtraveling. Although the hospitality industryis realizing the full potential ofdigital signage to meet these expectations,it is still in its infancy and, thus,has the potential of providing a widearray of opportunities for integratorsin both necessary and beneficial applications.More CompetitionWith tighter budgets and increasingcompetition for attention among consumerseating out, patrons frequentinghotels and the steady mass of peopleheading out to bars for a night of fun,digital signage is proving to be an effectivemeans of communication for basicinformation, advertising and sheerentertainment.Whatever the application, a digitaldisplay truly goes the extra mile for theconsumer, dealer and the restaurant orhotel owner. So, how does one maximizea digital signage opportunity?A good digital signage install beginswith a solid relationship with and understandingof the venue. The installermust fully assess the location to ensurethe needs of the customer are met, takinginto account the size of the space,the message being conveyed, whetherthere is a need for a network of multiplescreens, the best type of contentand feed for that particular venue, etc.An effective systems integrator understandswhat the client feels its opportunityis and what its goals are for thesystem, from a creative, marketing andoverall communications standpoint.The systems integrator will startwith the ideal hardware for the signageapplication, depending on thebrightness of the room and runningtime required, with liquid crystal displays(LCDs) ideal for bright areas andplasma screens typically suited for areaswith lower lighting. Whatever thescenario, lighting should enhance thepanels’ contrast and color intensity.Digital projectors are another optionin digital signage, a cost-effective alternativeto the flat-panel LCD or plasmadisplay.Used To ReachMany PeopleMost digital signage applications areused to reach many people and oftenhave to be seen from quite a distance,requiring a larger screen. Prices in thecompetitive flat-panel monitor markethave come down in recent years, butDan Wynne is senior director of marketing, Professional Display Division, Sharp Imaging and Information Company ofAmerica.72 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

still present a significant added costto a hospitality location. Additionally,LCDs and plasmas are now availablein a larger variety of screen sizes—atthe high end, up to the 108-inch classin the LCD category and 103 inchesin the plasma category, and down tosmaller plasma and LCD screens thatcan be used to outfit a seating area ina restaurant.In many hotels, digital signage applicationsare running 24/7 to keeppatrons updated at all times. In theseinstances, it is important to select anLCD or plasma screen that is designedand warranted specifically for extendeduse. This will help ensure that thedisplays last longer, without concernfor downtime, lessening the need forcontinuous replacements and helpingto cut costs.Image ‘Retention’Because some displays may be subjectto image “retention” (or “burnin”), if the same picture or text (forAn example of an ad wrapped around a football game broadcast on commercial TV.example, the logo or address of thehotel or restaurant) is displayed on thescreen continuously, it is important toconfirm in advance that the screensunder consideration are specified asbeing virtually immune to this type ofimage degradation.Restaurant owners and hotel IT departmentsshould also keep in mind today’sresolution standards. As HDTV and higher-resolutionwide-format data displaysbecome the norm, consider standardizingon screens that can take advantage ofthe full 1920x1080 high-definition (HD)resolution that may be provided fromboth PC and HD video sources.OnSite Network, Inc.CMYCMSIMPLE CONFIGURATION.SIMPLE INSTALLATION.MYCYMYKWant to be more competitive, land more projects, and compress project lead-times? Install theSVSi voLANte digital video Ethernet LAN as the content distribution backbone of your nextdigital signage project and streamline the tasks of specifying, configuring, and implementingdigital signage. You get to move on quickly to the next job and your customer getsa flexible, easy-to-maintain digital signage network. Learn more at easysignage.netJoin the REVOLUTION.www.easysignage.netOctober 2008 73

software programs enable content programming,delivery and display. Someof the more advanced programs allowfor remote playback on additional PCsand monitors, so restaurant and bar operatorscan update menu pricing andplaylists internally.To program the monitor, the integratorsimply requires a PC connected tothe display panel, or a networked PC,coupled with the manufacturer software.Software programs allow an integratorto select box size/range for each bit ofcontent to be displayed on the screen,select how long content will cycle ineach box, create borders, etc.Large screens capture the attention of patrons at Chicago’s Weather MarkTavern.Additionally, in many hotel and restaurantinformation display signageapplications, it is preferred to use thedisplay in a vertical or “portrait mode”orientation, in place of the traditionalhorizontal “landscape mode” orientation.Not all displays are built for portraitmode use, so, if the client intendsto use the display in this orientation,find out in advance if the models beingconsidered are designed and warrantedfor this type of application.Though most displays will provideextremely high initial reliability, verifyin advance what the warranty will be. Agood commercial warranty will provideat least three years of parts and laborsupport, with the larger screen sizesoffering this warranty “on-site.”Many hospitality locations are hightrafficareas that add another challengeto the digital signage screens. In restaurantsand bars, the flat-panel displays canbe at risk of being splashed by drinks orsmudged by food. Higher-end screensare often available with integrated protectiveoverlays that provide a barrier toany damaging spills. If this is a potentialconcern, specify in advance that the displaysunder consideration be providedwith a protective overlay.SoftwareWith hardware in place, and beforegetting into the actual digital signagecontent, the customer and integratormust consider the type of programmingthat will be used. If a customer is juststarting out with a venture into digitalsignage and looking to get his feetwet, an existing manufacturer softwarepackage may be the best place to start.Some panel manufacturers now offertheir own digital signage software thatempowers DIY integrators who want totackle programming themselves. TheseCreating,Maintaining ContentWith a majority of monitors, contentmust be hosted on a PC or server locatedadjacent to the panel, so extraspace has to be accounted for whendesignating the location and installingthe panels. If the content is being providedinternally, it can be as basic as aPowerPoint presentation, flash files viaAdobe or high-resolution photographyof a restaurant’s menu items. Dependingon how user-friendly the softwareis, and the complexity of the facilityand signage layout, the integrator maywant to relinquish control of contentcreation and updating to the owner andonly visit the site to troubleshoot. Somesystems integrators act as a managednetwork company, housing the contentserver and managing and updating thecontent for the customer.Many integrators work with partnersthat provide the content and simplyrecommend that to the customer. But,more often, the integrator works withthe client’s marketing agency to obtainthe content and then digitizes it for thedisplay.To accommodate larger restaurantand bar chains, as well as hotels, integratorsmay want to consider maintainingfull-time content developers as partof their staff, or work with a third-partyprogrammer/designer to both installthe necessary software and design andprovide the content.One such example of a unique contentprovider for the hospitality industrySOM_081508.indd 174 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com8/25/2008 2:09:33 PM

is OnSite Network, a media companywith a new and proprietary approachto the display of traditional television.OnSite found a way to increase advertisingviewership by specific marketsegments using a digital signage applicationin sports bars and restaurants.This was done by adding content andadvertising to broadcast TV feeds.Using a large-format flat-panel LCDmonitor, OnSite put a seven-inch-widestrip on the right side of the broadcast imagefor additional content, and a five-inchtallstrip along the bottom for advertisingon a 46-inch-class monitor. Through itsstudies, OnSite has confirmed that viewerswill read advertisements on digitalsignage despite the social setting and, inmany cases, discuss the written materialadded to a TV image, without losing trackof the main program.Through this application, OnSite ismeasurably building viewership andthe amount of time a bar or restaurantpatron will spend watching television.To get this off the ground, OnSite developeda custom-built PC with a videomixer installed. The setup mixes contentfrom three sources: a broadcasttelevision signal, venue ads residingon the PC, and content and advertisingstreaming from OnSite over the internet.The only thing required fromeach hospitality location is the venuespecificinformation to be included inthe marketing loop on the right side ofthe screen. OnSite handles all contentmaintenance and troubleshooting froma central location.The hospitality market proved keyfor this unique application, because itis helping to increase revenue for boththe venues involved and the advertisersproviding the content. OnSite’s biggestchallenge was to find a way to putthe screens where they could developa mass market of viewers (defined asa million viewers in a specific marketarea) and yet provide advertiser segmentsbroken down into groups ofabout 20,000 viewers per month.With the OnSite installation, the baror restaurant owner can choose the TVsignal from whatever source he is usedto, whether satellite, cable or broadcast,in regular or high definition. Itcould be a pro or college game, TVseries or whatever customers prefer.The portion of the screen devoted tothe venue’s own advertising turns outto be the most valuable incentive thatOnSite has to allow them to installtheir equipment.Industrial GradeOnSite chose to use industrial-gradeLCD monitors for these applicationsbecause they are designed for demandingapplications that require thehighest level of reliability and quality.The LCD monitors’ anti-glare coatingsand high contrast enabled them to beplaced in brighter areas where otherscreens might appear washed out, allowingviewers to discern details theymight otherwise miss. The wide viewingangles of the LCD monitors alsoenable images to be seen from almostanywhere in the restaurant or bar.The OnSite network is growing rapidly.Locations are in Chicago, Atlanta,Orlando, New York City, St. Louis,Minneapolis, Los Angeles and othercities, currently in 22 states with about4.4 million viewers per month. Venueowners sign a three-year commitment,but they have the option to pull theservice early by paying a penalty. Aftermore than one year, no one hasasked OnSite to take the screens out,but many requests have come in foradditional screens.Systems integrators can providebetter overall value to the hospitalitycustomer and develop and maintain along-term relationship by selling morethan just the box, offering the softwareand content to differentiate the venueand inform, promote and entertainconsumers. With the proper initialassessment of the venue, whether it’sbasic restaurant menu signage thatonly requires an update once a weekor a multi-screen installation in a bar/restaurant where they want specificTV programming with wraparoundadvertising, the integrator can installthe digital signage content to open thedoor for the customer to gain revenueshare from advertisers to help payback the cost of the installation. nAudio over IP - Transport Messengers from Barix:“They want every news online, instantly:be it about Amy Winehouseor why the train's running late.”For more about information, securityand comfort in the transport sector,visit www.barix.comInfoComm Asia 08Stand A1-04 | Hall 7October 2008 75

Surveying TheDigital SignageLandscapeNSCA’s Q3 MIB captures industry direction.By chuck wilsonWithin the electronics systems industry, digital signagehas become something of a buzzword…and with good reason.A recent report by the National Systems ContractorsAssociation (NSCA) showed that a majority of industrymembers use the technology. In fact, 67% of systems contractors/integratorsand 80% of independent technical/designconsultants surveyed said they’d had at least someinvolvement with digital signage projects in 2007.NSCA’s Q3 MIBThe 2008 Q3 Market Intelligence Briefing (MIB), titled“Digital Signage Trends in the Commercial Electronic SystemsIndustry,” provides detailed background informationabout this uniquely convergent technology, as well as presentand predicted future involvement. Specifically, the MIBexamines market demand, dynamics, obstacles, prime functions/applications,targeted venues and technologies.As part of the measurement, surveys were screened toensure respondents were either systems contractors/integratorsor independent technical/design consultants.Those who didn’t fall within these two specific groupswere removed from the survey results.Further, within each of the two subsets, the researchseparates those who have never been involved in digitalsignage and those who have already entered the market.For the purposes of this analysis, the focus is on those whoare already involved in digital signage. The results paint aninformative picture from a unique channel perspective.Because it’s still a growing industry, respondents saiddigital signage did not constitute a large revenue streamfor their companies in 2007. Systems contractors/integratorssaid digital signage accounted for 11.2% of their2007 revenue; independent technical/design consultantsreported 10.7% last year.Growth In 2009Next year is expected to be one of growth in the digitalsignage market. In fact, systems contractors/integratorsexpect growth of 45%, whereas independent technical/designconsultants anticipate 22% growth in digital signageprojects.Indeed, according to the report, the market is poised toexpand, and many new companies plan to enter the marketnext year. Although those companies don’t anticipate an immediatedemand, they are interested enough to enter themarket. Comparing current and future participants side-bysideprovides a broader picture of future trends: See “FutureInvolvement with Digital Signage.”As in any industry, market growth brings its own uniqueset of challenges and obstacles. Digital signage is no different.Systems integrators/contractors cite four major areasof concern they face as they enter the digital signage arena:difficulty coordinating clients’ internal departments, lack ofexperience structuring the selling of digital signage systems,difficulty getting the necessary IT components involved, anda lack of ROI benefit as perceived by clients.The outlook is quite similar for independent technical/designconsultants. They report they have clients who havenot embraced the market, difficulty coordinating internaldepartments and customers who do not see a clear returnon their investment.To overcome those hurdles, respondents admit they needadditional knowledge, particularly when it comes to softwareinformation. They say software programs make it easier toschedule, build playlists, and provide full media control andAV media players with ample memory.Chuck Wilson is executive director of NSCA, the leading not-for-profit association representing the commercial electronicsystems industry. NSCA is dedicated to serving contractor members and all channel stakeholders through education, membertools and services, and advocacy and industry outreach.76 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

THIS MOnTH OnThe industry’s first and onlystreaming video webcast.STAFFInG: TRAInInG And KEEPInG EMPLOyEESAddresses the benefits of providing employees with education and training opportunities,as well as promoting from within. This episode can help employersharness their greatest potential strength: their existing staff.Featuring:Dan Shoman, general manager, Masque Sound and Jonathan Shor, CTS, directorof technology, McCann Systems.MISS THESE PAST PROGRAMS?WATCH THEM NOW ONhttp://youtube.com/soundcommdOInG BuSInESSWITH uncLE SAMFeaturing:Barry Goldin, director, SystemsIntegration, Audio Video Systemsand Sidney Lissner, president,Avitecture.FREEdOM OF cHOIcE:InSIdE OPEnARcHITEcTuREFeaturing:Dave Berlin, president, Video Corp. ofAmerica and Christopher Maione, CTS-D,partner, Costello Maione Schuch.GREEn: THE cOLOROF MOnEy?Featuring:Will Parry, CTS, VP of sales, AVI-SPLand Monti Carr, director ofintegration, SKC CommunicationProducts, Inc.STAndARdS:BEST PRAcTIcESFeaturing:Mario J. Maltese, CTS-D, CTS-I, CEOof Audio Visual Resources, Inc., andJohn Lopinto, Pres./CEO/Co-founder ofCommunications Specialties, Inc.WORKInG WITHTHE EnEMyFeaturing:Todd Hutchins, CTS-D,of Verrex Corp. andT. Lee Trimble, AIA,of Mancini•Duffy.A nEW PROGRAMIS dELIVEREd EVERyMOnTH VIA EMAILSign up atwww.soundandcommunications.com/viewpointOctober 2008 77

Data are the expected % of 2008revenue from digital signage.Future Involvement with Digital SignageSystems contractors/integratorsIndependent technical/designconsultantsInvolved in 07 Not involved in 07 Involved in 07 Not involved in 07None 0.0% 53.5% 0.0% 62.5%Less than 5% 20.2% 41.9% 19.4% 37.5%5% to 10% 38.2% 2.3% 45.2% 0.0%11% to 20% 20.2% 0.0% 19.4% 0.0%21% to 30% 7.9% 0.0% 9.7% 0.0%31% to 40% 6.7% 2.3% 3.2% 0.0%41% to 50% 2.2% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%51% to 60% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%61% to 70% 1.1% 0.0% 3.2% 0.0%71% to 80% 1.1% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%81% to 90% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%91% to 95% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%Greater than 95% 2.2% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%Venues for Digital SignageSystems contractors/integratorsTop venueTop threevenuesIndependent technical/design consultantsTopvenueTop threevenuesCorporate and industrial venues, including financial institutions 32.6% 50.6% 25.8% 45.2%Universities and colleges 3.4% 28.1% 3.2% 32.3%Houses of worship 6.7% 28.1% 6.5% 19.4%Healthcare facilities 12.4% 27.0% 0.0% 16.1%Restaurants, retail facilities and shopping malls 12.4% 24.7% 12.9% 22.6%Hotels and convention centers 11.2% 23.6% 19.4% 51.6%K-12 schools, both public and private 4.5% 19.1% 3.2% 9.7%Concert halls, performing arts centers (including outdoor), nightclubsand sports barsGovernment, municipal, and community facilities (includingcorrectional and transportation facilities)Need AdditionalResourcesIn addition to pure technology needs,industry members need additional resourcesbefore they can achieve success.For example, both groups reportthey need more experience on how tosell digital signage, and how to quantifyand explain the benefits and costsinvolved in digital signage.They may have new things to learn3.4% 16.9% 3.2% 19.4%6.7% 15.7% 6.5% 19.4%Residential: multi-unit 0.0% 4.5% 0.0% 0.0%Stadiums and arenas 1.1% 2.2% 6.5% 9.7%Residential: single-family houses 0.0% 2.2% 0.0% 0.0%Other 1.1% 6.7% 3.2% 6.5%first, but those involved in the applicationhave gained experience incertain markets and look forward tofuture expansion in system functionality,content production, partnershipsand venues.Industr y members employ digitalsignage in their businesses for amyriad of reasons. Schedule postingwas the most common response fromsystems contractors/integrators. However,independent technical/designconsultants used digital signage toboost advertising and revenues.For a wider perspective, it’s informativeto examine the top ways eachgroup uses this technology. Educationtopped the list for systems integrators;wayfinding/directional signage was #1for consultants.Systems contractors/integrators participatein a wide and diverse variety ofmarkets. Their three primary businessvenues include:• corporate and industrial, includingfinancial institutions• universities and colleges• houses of worshipThe results were similar for independenttechnical/design consultants;however, their top client is the hospitalityindustry. For this constituency,the top three vertical markets are:• hotels/convention centers• corporate/industrial• universities and colleges“Venues for Digital Signage” breaksdown participation into all self-reportedmarkets.Closer ExaminationAs more companies enter the digitalsignage market, a closer examinationof product components is critical. Forexample, the number of screens is animportant part of the market equation.The systems contractors/integratorstend to provide smaller digital signagesystems (fewer than six screens) thanthose designed and specified by theindependent technical/design consultantsin this study. Nearly 26% of theconsultants reported that their typicalsystem had more than 25 screens.Screens are one thing, but streamsare another consideration in the digitalsignage arena. In comparing the quantityof content streams across industryspecialties, a large majority of systemsintegrators/contractors reported systemswith two or less streams. Conversely,most independent technical/design consultants had systems withthree or more streams.Given the learning curve ahead,what is the future of digital signagein the industry? Over the next severalyears, systems contractors/integratorsare very certain they will:78 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

Future Trends: Independent Technical/Design ConsultantsUnlikely Neutral Likely Not sure Average scoreMore of our digital signage systems will serve multiple functions 3.2% 6.5% 74.2% 16.1% 4.5More of our digital signage systems will use multiple contentstreamsMore of our digital signage systems will be networked and IPaddressableMore of our digital signage systems will include high definitionvideo3.2% 9.7% 71.0% 16.1% 4.33.2% 12.9% 67.7% 16.1% 4.36.5% 12.9% 64.5% 16.1% 4.1We will increase our involvement with digital signage overall 3.2% 22.6% 61.3% 12.9% 4.1More of our digital signage systems will include audio 9.7% 19.4% 51.6% 19.4% 3.8More of our digital signage systems will have separate speakers 9.7% 32.3% 38.7% 19.4% 3.6We will start or expand collaboration with digital signage serviceor content providersWe will create or expand in-house capabilities to provide orproduce content for digital signage systems35.5% 25.8% 25.8% 12.9% 2.764.5% 6.5% 12.9% 16.1% 1.8• increase their overall involvement with digital signage.• increase the number of systems that are networked and IP addressable.• increase their use of high-definition video in their digital signage systems.• rely more on multiple content streams.• serve multiple functions with each digital signage system.For their part, trends reportedby independent technical/designconsultants canbe seen in “Future Trends:Independent Technical/DesignConsultants.”The world of digital signageis diverse and expanding.As the application grows,more functions will emergeto create new opportunitiesfor many stakeholders. Awide variety of industriescan take part in this emergingmarket, including lowvoltagesystems contracting,AV integration, IT networking,software development,content design, merchandisingand advertising.The full report is free toNSCA corporate contractormembers. For more informationabout NSCA, visit www.nsca.org, or call (800) 446-6722. nAZDEN INFRA REDIn the classroomTHE COMPLETE CLASSROOM SYSTEMAzden provides two complete systems (IR-CSand IR-WS) which include: an IR receiver withample power for 4 ceiling or 4 wall-mountedspeakers and a built-in sensor array (IRR-30P),a small, lightweight chest-worn microphone/transmitter (IRN-10), a pass-around handheldmicrophone/transmitter (IRH-15c), an externalceiling-mounted sensor (IRD-60), and 4 highqualityin-ceiling speakers (ACS-6.5) or 4compact wall-mounted speakers (AWS-4.5).All you need to complete the installation is thewiring for the speakers and sensor. Of course,you can purchase components separately tocustomize your own system.®For complete details, specifications, and pricing, e-mail azdenus@azdencorp.com,visit our website: www.azdencorp.com or call us @ 1-800-247-4501.P.O. Box 10, Franklin Square, NY 11010 • (516) 328-7500 • FAX: (516) 328-7506October 2008 79

700MHz AllocationStirs Industry ConcernsFCC actions leave wireless mics in limbo.By R. David ReadThe future use of wireless microphoneshas again raised its ugly hackles.With the impending transition oftelevision transmission from analogto digital by February 2009, the frequencyspectrum previously allocatedby the Federal Communications Commission(FCC) to certain analog UHF-TV channels will cease to exist. Mostof this spectrum has already been auctionedoff for sizable sums to bidderswho seek to expand their interests inthe 700MHz wireless spectrum.Recent proceedings and proposedrule changes will effectively bar useof (licensed or unlicensed) wirelessmicrophone and other low-poweredauxiliary devices in the entire 700MHzband (698MHz to 806MHz, UHF-TVchannels 52 to 69) after the February2009 transition.Key WordsHere are the key words in the Noticeof Proposed Rulemaking documentfrom the FCC, dated August 15, 2008(released August 21):In the Order below, we impose afreeze, effective upon release of thisOrder, on the filing of new licenseapplications that seek to operateon any 700MHz Band frequencies(698-806MHz) after the end of theDTV transition, February 17, 2009.In addition, we impose a freeze ongranting any request for equipmentauthorization of low-power auxiliarystation devices that would operate inany of the 700MHz Band frequencies.We also hold in abeyance, until theconclusion of this proceeding, anypending license applications andequipment authorization requeststhat involve operation of low-powerPerformers may be using differently configured wireless equipmentafter everything is sorted out. Here, Ben Vereen is on stage at theBirch North Park Theater in San Diego.auxiliary devices on frequencies inthe 700MHz Band after the end ofthe DTV transition.By FCC definition, “low-power auxiliarystation devices” include licensedand unlicensed wireless microphonesystems and TV camera synchronizedcontrol mechanisms. The complete textof the FCC docket can be accessed athttp://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-08-188A1.doc.The graphic on page 82 shows howthe UHF spectrum will appear after thetransition date and who the primarybidders were for the auctioned-off portionsof the spectrum. Successful biddersfor the available space generallyare referred to by the FCC as “CommercialWireless Services.” It shouldbe noted that the bulk of the auctionedspectrum was gobbled up by telecommunicationcompanies with an eye toexpanding cellular and similar applications.In this high-stakes game, it’ll bedifficult for the relatively low profile,small-cap or unlisted (private owner-Karl WinklerContributing Editor R. David Read has been involved in AV and RF development for about 40 years.80 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

ship) wireless microphone manufacturersto compete.Initially, the portion of the spectrumunder discussion was reserved for FCClicensed (italics added) users in thebroadcast field. By industry best estimates,there currently are 943 licensedwireless microphone users and possibly3.5 million unlicensed users in thisband. Utilization of UHF-TV stationson the previously available channels52 through 69 was scant, which pavedthe way for the production and usageof wireless microphone systems.In no way was the requirement forlicensing rescinded; however, mostusers either did not qualify or simplychose not to file for licensing oftheir equipment. And, it must be emphasizedthat the licensing requirementwas placed on the user, not themanufacturer and/or the dealer. If thatsounds like a copout, it was fosteredby the FCC that, by virtue of eitheran unwillingness or inability to enforcethe law, taciturnly allowed the processto proceed unimpeded for better thanthree decades.In almost every case (and certainlyon the part of the major suppliers ofwireless microphone systems), suchequipment was duly tested for typeacceptance in order to follow FCCregulations and was stringently manufacturedwith regard to power outputand spurious radiation. Which isn’t tosay that there wasn’t some real “junk”dumped on the market, but most reputablesuppliers proceeded in a due anddiligent manner.RespondingTo The ChangeThe cited FCC order stops somewhatshort of completely banning the production,importation or use of wirelessmicrophone (and other) lower-powerauxiliary devices (refer to FCC Docket08-188A1). However, the writing is onthe wall. (Note: The proposed FCC rulesapply only to devices for use within theUnited States. Devices for use on the700MHz band in countries other thanthe US are not currently affected.)Wireless microphone manufacturers,such as Audio-Technica, Lectro-Business meetings and educationalsettings will be affected, as well.Shure Inc.sonics, Shure, Sennheiser and others,have been advising their dealers formore than a year that manufacturingof 700MHz devices would be discontinued,and some have required dealersand/or users to sign waivers absolvingthe manufacturer from liability fordevices that likely will be illegal forfuture use.With the likely advent of a total banof wireless microphone systems inthe US 700MHz band, what are thealternatives? Some relief for current700MHz band customers may lie in the

Radio AstroREGIONALPUBLIC SAFETY14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 4US TVChan470-476476-482482-488488-494494-500500-506506-512512-518518-524524-530530-536536-542542-548548-554554-560560-566566-572572-578578-584584-590590-596596-602602-608608-614614-620620-626626-632FreqRange(MHz)UHF Spectrum (after Feb 17, 2009)Regional Public Safety Channels:14Miami14, 16Boston14, 15, 16New York14, 15Chicago19, 20Philadelphia14, 15Cleveland14, 18Pittsburgh16Dallas16, 17San Francisco15, 16Detroit17, 18Washington DC17Houston2.4 GHzSTL900 MHzNewSvcsAuctioned for New ServicesTV BROADCASTS14, 16, 20Los AngelesWi-Fi, Bluetooth, Unlicensed DevicesStudio-Transmitter LinksUnlicensed DevicesPUBLIC SAFETYPUBLIC SAFETYRadio AstronomyREGIONALPUBLIC SAFETYAvaVariousAT&T Qual comm Qual commAT&T,variousVarious14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69US TVChan52 53 54 55 56 572.4 - 2.483 GHz944-952902 - 928800-806794-800788-794782-788776-782770-776764-770758-764752-758746-752740-746734-740728-734722-728716-722710-716704-710698-704692-698686-692680-686674-680668-674662-668656-662650-656644-650638-644632-638626-632620-626614-620608-614602-608596-602590-596584-590578-584572-578566-572560-566554-560548-554542-548536-542530-536524-530518-524512-518506-512500-506494-500488-494482-488476-482470-476FreqRange(MHz)734728722716710704698Regional Public Safety Channels:14Miami14, 16Boston14, 15, 16New York14, 15ChicagoSTATUS OF AUCTION BLOCKS19, 20Philadelphia14, 15Cleveland14, 18Pittsburgh16DallasAuction complete, spectrum is in use16, 17San Francisco15, 16DetroitAuction complete, spectrum use uncertain orlocal/regional17, 18Washington DC17Houston14, 16, 20Los AngelesAuction pendingCourtesy Shure Inc.757763775787793805Guard Band BPublic Safety Verizon D Block Public SafetyGuard Band AGuard Band BAT&T Verizon D BlockGuard Band AAT&T,variousVariousAT&T Qual comm Qual commAT&T,variousVarious52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69698704710716722728734740746752758764770776782788794800806STATUS OF AUCTION BLOCKSmodification of existing equipment intoalternative bands. For example: Lectrosonicsrecently issued the followinginformation to its dealer base:Lectrosonics has implemented a serviceplan that allows end users whohave current equipment in this band todo block changes. For some products,such as IFBR1a and VRS/VRT Modules,an exchange is the lower cost pathway.While not inexpensive, this plan providesa more cost effective pathway forthose who choose to change the blocksof their equipment. These block changesinvolve entire RF board changes.Have your customers contact Lectrosonicsdirectly for return authorizationsand instructions regardingthese block changes.Older products, such as 200 series,195 series, etc., will not be coveredunder this program. Frequency changesmay be possible. Call our servicedepartment to inquire about feasibility.In November of 2007, we notified alldealers that we would no longer buildblocks 27, 28 or 29 to inventory andthat all orders for those blocks would beon a special order, no return basis.Shure Inc. has issued similar notificationto its dealer base and, if theyhave not already, other manufacturersundoubtedly will be quick to follow suit.All of the manufacturers contacted forpurposes of this report offered someform of plan that seeks to amelioratethe effects occasioned by this transition.It would be prudent to contactyour wireless microphone supplier(s)to determine what recourse might beavailable.Grey AreaAn even larger battle is looming onthe horizon. Inasmuch as it appears tobe a foregone conclusion that wirelessmicrophone manufacturers will shortlyhave to shun the 700MHz band, theywill have to seek out alternative spectrumspace to continue meeting customerdemand. Given current technol-Auction complete, spectrum is in useAuction complete, spectrum use uncertain orlocal/regionalAuction pendingogy and the immutable laws of physics,this presents a situation requiringsome serious equipment alteration orthe adoption of some, yet unforeseen,mode(s) of operation. Fortunately, thespectrum from 470MHz to 698MHz re-82 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

have rendered any serious efforts toadopt such technology as moot; in fieldtests thus far, their “seek and avoid”efforts have failed miserably. Hence,they have chosen to take their battleto the political arena.ConclusionIn the long run, it is hardly conceivablethat wireless microphones willdisappear from the AV scene. However,an arduous battle for equality appearsto be in the offing. On the bright side,this state of affairs may well spur someintense R&D efforts on the part ofwireless microphone manufacturersthat will circumvent mutual interferencebetween co-users, and usher innew digital and modulation schemesthat will further advance the technologyas it applies to this sector.Stay tuned….nby ASC-TUBETRAPWireless microphones have become anintegral piece of equipment for use bytalent in a variety of applications.mains available to licensed users, as ithas been for some time.The next battle royal shaping up isover use of so-called “white spaces” betweenactive TV broadcast channels.These are niche spaces (outside of the700MHz band) in the UHF range, andare on different frequencies in eachmetro area. The insatiable appetite forband-space by WiFi, PDA and otherwireless providers is being fostered bysome rather well heeled suppliers tothe point where the right of wirelessmicrophone users to share these frequenciesis under intense attack.At present, the FCC does not legallyrecognize “white space.” Inasmuch asthe transition to DTV will render agreater amount of available bandwidth(white spaces), it is not inconceivablethat such space might be identifiedand subsequently offered at auction tothe highest bidder. Currently, severalmajor companies, including Googleand Microsoft, are vying to have unlicensedaccess to these spaces.By using known “search and avoid”frequency scanning, interference betweenco-users could seemingly beavoided (such procedures are alreadyin common use by wireless microphonemanufacturers). However, thebandwidth grab by contesting commercialwireless providers appears toSennheiserASC-Coffered Ceiling lowers RT60 andreduces crosstalk in bright rooms withoutoverdamping local liveliness.• Board Room • Fellowship Hall• Lobby/Halls • Great Room• Restaurant • Museum/GalleryASC ACOUSTICSCIENCESCORPORATIONwww.audioscience.comwww.acousticsciences.comASI 2416: COBRANET CONNECTIVITY YOU’LL RAVE ABOUT.NOT JUST ANOTHER DUMB BOX. The ASI2416 is a modularCobraNet audio interface in a 1U rack mount format.It can be hold 4 function specific modules, allowingup to 16 channels of analog or AES/EBU I/O. Eachmodule has a unique interchangeable connector(terminal block, RJ-45 StudioHub or 50-pinCentronics) for unparalleled flexibility.Processing Power Sixteen channels ofCobraNet I/O and a powerful Texas Instruments32bit floating point DSP allows sophisticatedswitching and mixing. The front panel graphicsdisplay shows peak meters and network status.Connectivity raised to an entirely new level.SoftwareSupportAudioScienceprovidesASIControl, anapplication thatallows CobraNetrouting connectionsto be setup between the ASI2416 and anyother compliant CobraNet device on the network.To learn more, ask your representative, or call+1-302-324-5333.October 2008 83

Hotels & RestaurantsAV shines through as a unifying thread.By Dan FerrisiWhen it comes to hotels and restaurants,variety is the spice of business.Some hotels are intended for thoseattending conventions and executiveconferences, whereas others cater totourists shuttling from one theme parkto the next. Some hotels target thosewho appreciate luxury and pampering,whereas others have a corner on the“roof, shower and bed” traveler. Likewise,some restaurants wish to exudea fine-dining, gourmet impression,while others suit the beer and buffalowings crowd to a “t.” Whatever thedifferences, the underlying, unifyingthread might well be AV.A business-centric hotel must havemeeting rooms equipped with qualityaudio, high-resolution displays andconferencing capabilities. A familyhotel in Orlando likely would boostits theme park ticket sales by havingdisplays looping enticing imagesthroughout common areas. The sameprinciple applies to eateries: Whereasa five-star Italian restaurant might useopera music to enhance ambiance, nosports bar would be complete withouta bevy of hi-def screens and envelopingaudio.Breaking GroundIn Columbus IN, ground has beenbroken on a six-story, 86-suite, extended-stayCandlewood Suites and adjoiningRichard L. Johnson Conferenceand Education Center. The propertyis scheduled to be finished and openedin late 2009. The cost of construction isestimated at $16 million, with the centerexpected to be $6 million and thehotel $10 million. The entire secondfloor of the Candlewood Suites hotelbuilding will be devoted to the Conferenceand Education Center, includingmeeting rooms and a ballroom. Thefacility will accommodate up to 750people for a single event. The eventswill be accessible to public and privatefunctions, including weddings, tradeshows, parties, conventions and civicevents, while also accommodating educationand business-oriented needs.In Edwardsville IL, a new hotel is inthe offing. Plans are advancing for aproject whereby a Wingate by WyndhamHotel will be erected adjacent tothe Sunset Hills Country Club. Amongthe hotel’s amenities will be an indoorpool, meeting rooms, a fitness centerand a breakfast bar. The three-storyhotel, which will have 78 rooms, willoccupy 2.2 acres of land.In Fort Worth TX, two years, 750people and 60,000 cubic yards ofconcrete marked the topping off ofthe Omni Fort Worth Hotel and theresidences at 1301 Throckmorton.The Omni Fort Worth Hotel will havenearly 615 guest rooms and suites.Upon opening, guests will have accessto several culinary options, includingBob’s Steak & Chop House, WineThief bar and the Whisky & Rye sportslounge. Nearly 68,000 square feet ofmeeting and event space is available.Included among its 29 meeting roomsis the Texas Ballroom that, by itself,will encompass nearly 19,000 squarefeet. The hotel will feature built-in prefunctionareas, plus 6500 square feetof useable outdoor space and accessto the Fort Worth Convention Centermeeting space, which includes accessto Fort Worth Water Gardens. The hotelwill open in January.In Fort Lauderdale FL, a new luxuryoceanfront hotel has opened. The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale, comprises a192-room hotel and lavish private residences.The building is distinguishedby 24 dramatically tiered, glass-walledstories rising behind a 29,000-squarefoottropical pool deck space witha zero-entry pool overlooking theAtlantic. Each guest room and suiteboasts one-touch technology phonesthat feature hotel services, as well asattraction information. Guest roomsalso have WiFi internet access, a DVDtheater entertainment system with a32-inch LCD panel TV encased in anarmoire, a 13-inch LCD panel TV ineach bathroom and more. It also featuresmore than 24,000 square feet84 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

of meeting space and an oceanfrontballroom.In Houston TX, a new hotel lobby isdrawing a crowd. The Sheraton Linklobby is the centerpiece of a multi-million-dollarrenovation of the SheratonNorth Houston at George Bush IntercontinentalAirport. At the heartof the lobby re-design is the “Link @Sheraton,” including free WiFi and internet-enabledcomputer stations. Thehotel has completely redone all 420guest rooms and 30,000 square feetof meeting space. The fitness centerwas enlarged to nearly 800 square feetand has been outfitted with equipmentthat features personal televisions. Atthis writing, the hotel was putting thefinishing touches on the renovation,primarily in non-guest areas.Upscale, Yet CasualGranite City Food & Brewery, whichdescribes itself as “a Modern Americanupscale casual restaurant,” has openedits 26 th location, this one situated in theSouth Bend/Mishawaka IN area. Therestaurant is about 8800 square feet,with seating for 250 guests. The chain’slocations are spread across 12 states.Fontainebleau Miami Beach promisesto revitalize the already-excitingSouth Florida culinary scene when itonce again welcomes patrons, on theheels of a $1 billion renovation and expansion.The 22-acre oceanfront propertywill offer 11 dining destinations ofvarying style and cuisine. Hakkasan,with roots in the United Kingdom, willmake its US debut at Fontainebleau.Hakkasan has established itself as apremier purveyor of Cantonese cuisine.Gotham Steak, also part of thisproperty, is a two-level, 16,000-squarefootrestaurant with indoor and al frescodining. Fontainebleau Miami Beachis on target for a Fall reopening.Pizza Fusion will open the secondLEED-certified restaurant in PalmBeach County (the fourth in Florida)in Wellington. Pizza Fusion emphasizesa universally eco-friendly approach,including with respect to their restaurants’build out, service and overalloperations. The company has morethan 75 restaurants built to LEEDcertification standards opening in 15states around the country, from Californiato New Jersey. The restaurantsfeature a number of eco-efficient products,techniques and designs, such aseliminating the need for water heatersby reusing waste heat from the ovensto warm their water. Other eco-friendlyelements and initiatives include usingonly Energy Star-certified applianceswhenever possible.Approval SecuredIn Boston MA, approval has beensecured for The Merano, a new hotel,office and retail project in the BulfinchTriangle neighborhood. The Merano’shotel space will include two moderatelypriced facilities: a 153-room short-termand a 121-room extended-stay hotel,operated by Courtyard by Marriottand TownePlace Suites by Marriott,respectively. The $160 million projectincludes 190,000 square feet of totalhotel uses as well as 206,000 squarefeet of office space, 10,000 square feetof ground-floor retail space and 13,000square feet of ground-floor restaurantspace. The developer expects to commenceconstruction during Q1/09.Construction is expected to take upto 24 months.The Keating Hotel, a San Diego CAluxury boutique hotel, has unveiled3000 square feet of meeting space anda conference center in the MercantileBuilding located adjacent to the hotel.Guests may enter through the hotellobby or by an executive grand woodenstaircase that leads to the atrium-like,1000-square-foot foyer, which is appropriatefor business conferencesand cocktail parties. Surrounding thefoyer are four meeting rooms—rangingbetween 185 and 850 square feet—all equipped with technology, suchas interactive audiovisual equipment(including an HD LCD projector andscreen) and WiFi high-speed internetaccess. The hotel’s Minus 1 Loungefeatures an extensive sound and videosystem, as well. The Lounge and meetingspaces are available for receptionsand private events.Hotels and restaurants are hardlymonolithic and, as a result, we seequite a bit of variety in this segment.However, whatever the differences,a few commonalities always shinethough: Count AV among the mostprominent.nOctober 2008 85

COMPILED BY DAN FERRISINSCA Offers Project Management ProgramNSCA has unveiled a three-day Project Management Program. Theclass, which covers both fundamental and advanced concepts, examinesa range of topics, including how to manage both the humanand financial aspects of projects, manage billings and cash flow, andmitigate project risks. The first class will be offered November 12 to 14in Philadelphia PA. Two classes are planned for 2009: March 18 to 20in Seattle WA and September 16 to 18 in Chicago IL.“In this course, you’ll learn how to manage all aspects of a project fromstart to finish,” remarked senior director of professional developmentNorah Hammond. “You’ll emerge poised to take charge of projects and,as a result, boost your company’s bottom line.”For more information or to register, call NSCA at (800) 446-6722.Apple Commences Digital Signage PushApple has begun to make a push into the digital signage industry, withthe company’s Enterprise Sales Group funneling thousands of iMacs,Mac minis, Mac Pros and Xserves into the hospitality and leisure markets,according to an AppleInsider report. Traditional commercial AVsegments are now being outfitted with Apple technology, largely in hopesthat personalization, interactivity and ease of use will enhance patrons’experience, thereby boosting business.Fontainebleau Resorts is installing 24-inch iMacs in all 1400 rooms ofits Miami Beach property, which is getting a $500 million overhaul, aswell as nearly 3900 rooms in its almost $3 billion, 63-story luxury resortopening next year in Las Vegas. Three years ago, Royal CaribbeanCruise Lines started placing Mac minis in its seaborne hotels, two of itsSound & Communications Exclusive Interview: Klein + Hummel Drives Into Commercial Fixed-InstallKlein + Hummel (K+H), the Wedemark, Germany-based manufacturerof audio equipment for studios and commercial environments, has ahistory reminiscent of many other German companies. Horst Klein andWalter Hummel founded the company in the months following World WarII. Although the dates are not certain, it might have been founded withinweeks of Sennheiser, the firm that now owns K+H. The initial productrange in the 1940s—another point of similarity with Sennheiser—wasmeasurement instruments, such as voltmeters.Over time, the company turned toward consumer electronics, such as FMradio receivers and hi-fi equipment. However, by the late 1960s and early1970s, it had become clear that Japan was going to be the dominantconsumer electronics force. Fully aware of this trend, K+H diversified into professional audio, namely thestudio space. Resultantly, the company now has a 40-year history in studio monitoring, with the consumerelectronics portion having been discontinued.By the 1980s, Hummel was the only owner and, because he had no children, there was no second orthird generation to continue the business. He transitioned the company into a foundation in the ’80s and,subsequently, died in ’91. The foundation managed the company until, in 2004, K+H got into contact withSennheiser. As of March 1, 2005, Sennheiser took over K+H and is now its full owner.Following a slew of product debuts at this year’s InfoComm, part of a major push into the US fixed-install market,Sound & Communications spoke with Achim Gleissner, president, Dave Theis, product manager, Installed Sound,both of Klein + Hummel, and David McNutt, industry team leader, Installed Sound, Sennheiser, to get the details.Sound & Communications: Describethe relationship betweenSennheiser and Klein + Hummel.Gleissner: There had been a longhistory of a vendor/customer relationshipprior to the takeover.Sennheiser was distributing Klein+ Hummel products since the late’80s or early ’90s in several countries.It was mainly concentrated inEurope…countries such as Germany,the Netherlands, Austriaand Switzerland. As for the UnitedStates, distribution was very littleat that point.S&C: What is your history with thecommercial fixed-install space?Where does the US fit into thisand your current plans?Gleissner: Klein + Hummel has along history with installation productsbut, as I said, the companyhas been very much focused oncentral Europe. That was not dueto products; it was due to the weakdistribution. The installation productsnever hit the US market. Owingthat the installation market isthe most significant part of pro audio,and is a market that’s the toppriority for the Sennheiser Group,the approach now is to expand thegroup’s product portfolio to be afull-line supplier end-to-end in theaudio chain.The United States, for us at Klein+ Hummel, is the most importantmarket. There’s a long way fromwhere we are to where we wantto be, and we know that, but, intime, it has by far the biggest potential.We have an extremely goodrelationship with the SennheiserGroup and very good distributionwith Sennheiser Electronic Corporation[SEC] in the US.S&C: What percentage of yourbusiness is tied into commercialsystems integration? What percentageis North American?Gleissner: Today, overall, I wouldsay it’s about 50/50 as far as studiovs. commercial sound. It usedto be more like 80/20 in favor ofstudio. The American market isgrowing rapidly, but it’s still youngfor us. The most significant problemwith Klein + Hummel in the UShas been brand awareness. It’s differentfrom, for example, a marketsomewhere in the Far East, havingto build up the distribution and thebrand awareness at the same time.Here in the US, we have good distribution;we have to work on thebrand awareness.So, we’re ramping up and we wantto achieve the same share thatSennheiser has overall, meaningmore than 80% is exported and lessthan 20% is domestic business inGermany. And, by far, the most importantand biggest market is the US. It’sabout 20% overall for Sennheiser.S&C: What are the difficulties associatedwith being a global prod-86 Sound & CommunicationsFor more information about these companies, go to www.bluebookonline.net www.soundandcommunications.com

3600-passenger “Freedom Class” ships as the launching point. Thecompany is also building an Apple-hardware-driven IT infrastructureon its Solstice Class ships for Celebrity Cruises, in addition to two ofits own $1.2 billion “Oasis Class” ships.Nanonation has partnered with Apple to transport its technology tocruise ships, casinos, convention centers, and large and boutiquehotels. The debut applications have centered on digital signage anddisplay walls, typically providing large-format, one-to-many informationservices. Additionally, Nanonation has sought to leverage thesoftware features of Mac OS X to create interactive solutions for lobbyor poolside concierge service.GBH Communications Relocates Corporate HeadquartersGBH Communications, Inc., involved with collaboration and conferencingproducts, solutions and services, recently moved to new headquartersin Burbank CA. GBH’s offices include three videoconferencing demonstrationrooms, a wireless and corded headset products display room,a headset repair and refurbishment center, and the only Tele-Presenceconferencing demo center in Southern California. The new offices alsoprovide expanded warehouse, shipping and receiving capabilities andcustom-designed space for its Los Angeles-based management, sales,service and support teams. This location is adjacent to the BurbankAirport and near the Burbank Media Center.Achim Gleissner Dave Theis David McNuttucts provider?Theis: I’ll give an example, andthis can be replicated across manycategories and across areas ofthe globe. That is the differencebetween direct drive and 70V and100V amplification. It varies frommarket to market and continent tocontinent, regarding how peoplelike to approach distributed audiosystems. And so, if you’re going totry to address every market, youactually have a SKU for every continent.You have something that’s100V and operates a certain wayin Europe, and then 70V in theUnited States.Then there’s the issue of distributingamplifier signals vs. distributingaudio signals and, in differenttypes of installations, it variesgreatly. So, if you’re going to tryto cover the market in those kindsof amplifiers, you have to go oneway, which is power levels, andyou have to go another way, whichis the voltage output of the amplifiers.And you can wind up with aspreadsheet of 40 different SKUsto try to cover it.Gleissner: If you have projectsthat extend across countries, youalways run into difficulties if asystem is designed in the US, forexample, but it’s installed in Singapore.Because then, the US soundconsultant designs a system thatthe distributor in Singapore cannotprovide, because they are distributingdifferent brands. So, havingthe same comprehensive productportfolio available in all countries,and with the same distribution inall countries, makes a pretty completepicture. We have that now inthe Sennheiser Group.S&C: What has K+H done, so far,to make an impact in the commercialfixed-install market?McNutt: Achim alluded to thefact that we’ve been in installedsound types of markets outsidethe United States, but not verywell distributed anywhere else.But, in Europe, we’ve had a longhistory in live sound products. So,we’ve been making large-formatloudspeakers, powered speakers,high-reference studio monitors,etc. for some time. When thecompany was acquired, a strategyteam was put together to decidehow to harness the technologiesand expertise of the company andapply them on a global basis tovarious markets. And, of course,with the US being the largest andinstalled sound being the largestand fastest-growing of all those,that was the strategy that wastaken.And so, over the past 2½ years, wehave been taking products that alreadyexist and repurposing themto a new market. And we’ve beenredesigning new products to entera new market. At InfoComm, wesaw the culmination of 2½ yearsof parallel work over three or fourbrand new product categories andwe introduced close to 40 newproducts at the show.The first goal was to try to get asbroad a line of tools for integratorsand consultants as possible.And that includes microphones,loudspeakers and everything inbetween to try to fit those piecestogether. We did a pretty good jobof making that happen by Info-Comm. Just a few pieces are stillnot quite there.S&C: What is your competition?Gleissner: What we have introducedat InfoComm for the USmarket has been a wide programof different product categories.You’ll see anything from ceilingsurface-mount speakers to smallmixing amps to large-format cabinetsto power amps. So, it’s hardto say ‘This is the company wesee as our competitor’ becauseyou have leading brands in eachof these categories. The installationmarket is so diversified—sobroad in terms of key players inthat market. But, to be clear, we’renot primarily looking at taking theleading product in some specificcategory and trying to imitate it.Anybody can do a knock off.Theis: Our development processreally de-emphasizes paying somuch attention to the competition,instead focusing more on the clients.It’s the market feedback. It’sfinding out what tools integratorsneed to do their jobs. It’s aboutfinding out what presentation andperformance spaces look like todayand what their needs are. And, insome cases, there are completelynovel and innovative solutions thatcan solve those problems that looknothing like what the competitionis offering. That’s really a goodarea for us to focus: Where marketneeds are that nobody’s beenpaying attention to yet. We’re designingproducts to accommodatethe integrator’s workflow.—Dan FerrisiFor more information about these companies, go to www.bluebookonline.netOctober 2008 87

Ike Blonder DiesIsaac “Ike” Blonder, co-founder ofBlonder-Tongue Laboratories with hislongtime business partner and friend,Ben Tongue, died August 29 of naturalcauses. He was 92. Blonder and Tongue,after pooling their combined savings of$5000, founded their company in 1950 ina Yonkers NY dance hall. In the evening,the partners would assemble their product, which was a circuit to boosttelevision reception in remote areas.The pair continued to create new products and, resultantly, Blonder-Tongue outgrew locations in Mount Vernon, Westfield and Newark, finallybecoming an Old Bridge NJ-based company of about 400 employees.Blonder’s innovations in the realm of cable and television technologyearned his entry into the New Jersey Inventors Hall of Fame in 2002;the distinction was shared with Tongue.Blonder is survived by a son, Greg Blonder; a daughter, Terry Golson,of Carlisle MA; two sisters, Bertha Lee Krantz and Esther Lobel; and abrother, David Blonder, the latter three of Florida. Another son, Brad,died in an accident at age 18.Crestron Experience Center Calls Vegas HomeLas Vegas, a rapidly growingmarket in the US, is hometo the new Crestron ExperienceCenter. Located in theheart of the city, two blocksfrom the Strip on HowardHughes Parkway, the CrestronLas Vegas ExperienceCenter matches its casinoand resort partners in termsof size and excitement. Crestronwas among the first inthe industry to commit tothe Las Vegas market, openingan office there two yearsago. The 5000-square-footfacility, which opened July1, expands the Crestron LasVegas organization. Nearlyevery hotel, casino and resortin Las Vegas, includingthe new City Center Project,has standardized on Crestron to manage and control VIP suites, boardrooms,gaming rooms and operation centers.Crestron-Las Vegas provides customer support and training for dealersand partners. Elite Crestron system designers, programmers and salessupport are on-call to fulfill the needs of hotels and casinos. The CTI(Crestron Technical Institute) classroom features all the latest products,offering each person an interactive, hands-on experience and the opportunityto learn new techniques and best practices, as well as grab aglimpse at future technology in development.Chicago Bar Upgrades With Martin, APBWise Fool’s Pub, a double storefront space in Chicago, originally openedin 1968. Since then, blues legends such as Muddy Waters, Willie Dixon,Son Seals, KoKo Taylor, Lonnie Brooks, Buddy Guy and Mighty JoeYoung, as well as George Thorogood, making his first Chicago appearance,have played there. Owners Chris Perry and Big Bill Vancerecently undertook a total upgrade on the club’s audio system with localinstallers Frequency Audio.Designer Nathan Short chose the components for the makeover, includingthe first Martin Audio Blackline F12+ speakers installed in the US,as well as dual 18 subs, QSC amplification and an APB-DynaSonicsProRack House console. The mission was to provide good quality audioin a confined space without breaking the bank, something FrequencyAudio’s design and the product mix helped bring about in time for theclub’s Spring opening.According to Short, “We needed a system that could handle live bandsand DJs for some time to come….” The product mix fit the bill.Auralex Acoustics Cuts Gym NoiseWhen you put several hundred elementary school students togetherin one gymnasium, it can get loud. Winfield City Elementary School(Winfield AL) is all too familiar with this scenario and, thus, has employedThe Bailey Brothers Music Company, a full-service installationand retailer company based in Alabama, and Auralex Acoustics to helpbring down extreme noise levels.The school’s gymnasium serves as a multi-purpose room, sometimesserving as a gymnasium, other times as an additional seating area forthe adjacent auditorium, which is separated by an electric curtain. Duringlarge school productions/meetings, additional bleachers are movedinto the gymnasium, acting as an extension to the room. The acousticalrenovation included 90 Auralex C44 ProPanels installed on the wallsand 16 4'x25' custom ProBanners placed on the ceiling.Middle Atlantic Products Honors Ouzunoff & AssociatesAt a sales meeting held the day before InfoComm ’08, Middle AtlanticProducts announced that Ouzunoff & Associates has won AV Rep of theYear for 2007. The company is responsible for Connecticut, Massachusetts,Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine and Rhode Island. Commentingon the win, Middle Atlantic Products eastern region sales director CraigDecker stated, “Greg Ouzunoff and his team are a consistently highperformer, and just when you think they can’t get any better, they do.”Other awards at the meeting included Eakins/Bernstein & Associates forMost Improved Territory; Sigmet Corp., Excellence Marketing, Meyer Mar-88 Sound & CommunicationsFor more information about these companies, go to www.bluebookonline.net www.soundandcommunications.com

From left: Brandon Ivey, eastern regional salesmanager; Craig Decker, eastern region sales director;Ouzunoff & Associates’ Greg Ouzunoff and DavidBreinich, eastern regional sales manager.Victory Plaza Finds Success With JBLVictory Plaza, a commercial development located adjacent to the AmericanAirlines Center in Dallas TX, installed a JBL loudspeaker systemto support a wide variety of uses. This retail and entertainment venuehosts pre-game and post-game activities held at the Center, such asDallas Mavericks basketball and Dallas Stars ice hockey games, and isalso an attraction itself, drawing shoppers and diners daily throughoutthe year.keting, GP Marketing Inc. and Pearson & PearsonMarketing Inc. for President’s Club Awards, alongwith the previously mentioned Ouzunoff and Eakins/Bernstein.Barco Helps Unveil The Comcast ExperienceThe June 6 grand opening of The ComcastExperience at Philadelphia’s Comcast Centerfeatured an LED wall comprised of 6771 BarcoNX-4 LED modules. Situated in a seven-storyhighglass atrium, The Comcast Experience isa joint gift to the citizens of Philadelphia fromComcast Corp. and Liberty Property Trust. Itcombines sculpture, architecture and technologyinto an inviting and unique public environment.By transforming a public transportation hub intoan artistic focal point for the city, The ComcastExperience encompasses a number of important“firsts.” From a technology standpoint, the world’slargest four millimeter LED wall is 83.3 feet wideby 25.4 feet high, and is comprised of 6771 BarcoNX-4 LED modules. With 10 million pixels mountedin a seamless flat array, the wall provides ahigh degree of photo-realism: five times the resolutionof HD television. Behind the scenes, Barcoimage processing equipment includes six DX-700LED digitizers, seven Encore Video Processorsand three MatrixPRO routers.From an architectural standpoint, the installationmarks the first time that audio and videotechnology at this scale has been incorporatedinto the design of a major urban building. Andthe LED wall itself is not at all traditional inshape, because it includes rectangular cutoutsfor the lobby’s three banks of elevators.All the content for The Comcast Experience wasdesigned and produced by the Niles CreativeGroup. The installation also marks the first timethat an ever-changing audio and video environmenthas been designed for an audience intransit, with artificial intelligence at the core.For more information about these companies, go to www.bluebookonline.netOctober 2008 89

Victory Plaza also serves as an entertainment venue, with four large,high-resolution LED screens on each side of the Plaza, which movealong horizontal tracks, creating a variety of configurations and motionvideo. The screens are also occasionally combined into sets of four tocreate 31'x53' HD screens.Recognizing the key role that AV atmospherics play in creating a shopper-friendlyretail environment, systems integration firm The WhitlockGroup installed a visually discreet audio system, designed by VantageConsulting of Los Angeles. Ten zones of audio comprise the system,with each zone containing one JBL AM6212/95-WRX loudspeaker, oneAM6212/64-WRX loudspeaker and one ASB6128-WRX subwoofer. TheJBL loudspeakers are flush mounted to the buildings behind a curtainwall that creates a backdrop for the LED screens.Although the large amount of glass and concrete, not to mention thecurtain wall in front of loudspeakers, would seem to pose some largeacoustical challenges, Steve Whittle of The Whitlock Group found, fromthe start, that the system sounded good. “Because the loudspeakersare flush against the building, the building actually acts as a baffle forthe whole system,” he said. “There’s so much glass and hard surfacesthat you would expect a lot of echo, but the curtain wall actually softensthe audio as the sound passes through it.”Meyer Sound Meets Church ChallengeThe west coast’s largest Presbyterian Church has upgraded its sanctuarywith the installation of a Meyer Sound system. As Jeff Blackburn,director of media services at University Presbyterian, explained, theSeattle church’s 1400-seat sanctuary has a history of sonic challenges.“This is a very tough, reflective room,” observed Blackburn. “And ourold PA was directing the sound to all the wrong surfaces.” The ownerof the second-largest pipe organ west of the Mississippi, UniversityPresbyterian has 7000 pipes adorning the front walls. With differentservices running the gamut from traditional Christian music to a rangeof contemporary styles, the system had to address the needs of adiverse congregation.Curt Hare of Seattle-based Point Source Inc. specified a center arrayof five MILO line array loudspeakers and one MILO 120, augmentedwith a delay hang of five M’elodie line array loudspeakers. A pair of600-HP subwoofers is flown directly behind the MILO array. “We flewthe subs in a cardioid pattern to reduce low frequency buildup on thestage, as well as above it,” said Hare, referring to a large resonant areabetween the room’s ceiling and exterior roof.Meyer Sound’s Galileo loudspeaker management system handles thesubs, as well as several zones of delay and processing. The room’sreflectivity was addressed by acoustician Michael Yantis with a treatmentof rear wall diffusers. Blackburn reports the system is effective. “When Iheard the system, my first reaction was: Change nothing,” he remarked.“It sounds like a recording, everywhere in the room.”Nevada Gaming Control Board Approves HarrisFollowing an extensive application and review process, Harris Corp.’sInfoCaster digital signage solution has been approved for use withBally and Paltronics progressive slot gaming systems by the State ofNevada Gaming Control Board. The InfoCaster solution’s media controllerinterface enables the digital signage system to grab dynamicallychanging data, using XML schemes, from Bally and Paltronics systemsand continually update and display data relating to the “progressive”values from the slot machines in real time. In the event of a jackpot hit,the InfoCaster system displays the amount and location of the jackpotwin within the slot machine areas and can automatically display the winon screens throughout an entire venue.“Casinos and other slot machine gaming venues are looking for everycompetitive edge to enhance the customer experience, boost brandloyalty and increase profits,” said Tim Thorsteinson, president of HarrisBroadcast Communications. “With its ability to work in real time and generatehigh-quality displays, the InfoCaster system offers a way for slotmachine venues to interface with progressive gaming systems alreadyin place to grab the attention of guests and increase excitement.”RTKL Wins Dongli Lake CompetitionIn Tianjin, China, RTKL recently won first place in the Dongli LakeCompetition. The competition was joint-sponsored by the Tianjin CityPlanning Bureau and Tianjin Dongli District Government, and challengedfour top global design firms to develop a master plan for the 85-squarekilometerDongli Lake site.This comes on the heels of another significant competition win for RTKL:the National Art Museum of China expansion project in Beijing. RTKLimpressed competition officials by showing how the municipality couldcapitalize on natural strengths to better serve the burgeoning business,tourism and civic needs of greater Tianjin and neighboring Beijing. Themaster plan calls for an international conference center and summithouse, an executive training center, a healthcare-focused resort and avariety of recreational facilities.90 Sound & CommunicationsFor more information about these companies, go to www.bluebookonline.net www.soundandcommunications.com

COMPILED BY DAN FERRISIBarix Joins Crestron’s Integrated Partner ProgramBarix AG has announced its membership in Crestron’s Integrated PartnerProgram. This will allow Barix audio over IP products and systems tointegrate seamlessly into Crestron control platforms to enhance interoperabilityof control and audio distribution capabilities in the IP environment.The integration of Barix device control within a Crestron solutionwill provide systems integrators and installers with a toolkit to delivervoice and audio over existing network infrastructures. The partnershipwill allow Crestron customers to employ Barix Instreamer (encoding),Exstreamer (decoding) and Annuncicom (intercom/VoIP) devices ina variety of commercial, educational and residential applications.nThis month: “Staffing: Training and Keeping Employees,” featuringDan Shoman of Masque Sound (East Rutherford NJ) and JonathanShor of McCann Systems (Edison NJ), addresses the benefits ofproviding employees with education and training opportunities, aswell as promoting from within. This episode can help employersharness their greatest potential strength: their existing staff.Next month: “AV in Higher Education,” featuring Ernie Bailey ofthe University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (Little Rock AR)and Steve Rynbrandt of Science Applications International Corp.(SAIC, Walled Lake MI), discusses the lucrative higher educationmarket in an AV context. Among topics covered are how to workwith education decision-makers and what technologies are mostappropriate for this segment.To view these broadcasts, visit www.soundandcommunications.comand click on the VIEWpoint link. New shows are uploaded twicemonthly.C a l e n d a rNovemberASA, 156 th MeetingNov. 10-14Miami FLAcoustical Society of America(516) 576-2360asa.aip.orgIAAPA Attractions ExpoNov. 17-21Orlando FLInternational Association ofAmusement Parks and Attractions(703) 836-4800www.iaapa.org/expos/attractions/index.aspInfoComm Asia 2008Nov. 19-21Hong KongInfoComm International+65-6281 8607www.infocomm-asia.comJanuary 2009International CESJan. 8-11Sound & Communications’Las Vegas NVConsumer Electronics Association(866) 233-7968www.cesweb.orgThe NAMM Show 2009Jan. 15-18Anaheim CAInternational Music ProductsAssociation(760) 438-8001www.namm.org/thenammshow2009 BICSI Winter ConferenceJan. 18-22Orlando FLBICSI(813) 979-1991www.bicsi.org/winterFebruaryISE 2009Feb. 3-5Amsterdam, The NetherlandsInfoComm International, CEDIA+49 89 638 7929-0www.iseurope.orgD. ShawgoR. GrotheS. MorrisB. GreenA. ZammitJ. McMahonT. WagnerM. HoltenJ. VentroneE. ReeseB. GoodwinH. MullinackD. FroulaE. MountJ. StewartD. DavisK. GeertsV. HobbsSennheiser has added Daniel Shawgoand Eric Reese to its south-central USsales team. Shawgo is responsible forthe northern Florida area; Reese coversnorthern Illinois and eastern Wisconsin…TheHarman Music Grouphas promoted Reed Grothe to executiveVP of sales and marketing, and appointedBuzz Goodwin to VP of domesticMI sales…JBL Professional hasnamed Stephen Morris as executiveVP of sales, which encompasses forleading US sales operations for otherHarman Professional brands, includingAKG, Soundcraft and Studer,as well…Wheatstone has appointedHoward Mullinack to the newly createdposition of director of marketing…Intelixhas appointed Beth Green as salesassistant…beyerdynamic has appointedDana Froula to market developmentmanager-pro audio as well as AnthonyZammit to sales and marketing supportspecialist-pro audio…Liberty Wire& Cable has appointed John D. Daceas general manager…Eldridge Mounthas been hired as VP of engineering atLab X Technologies…Meyer Soundhas appointed John McMahon to thenewly created executive director ofdigital products position…Vivitek hasselected Sam Malik to lead its salesand marketing division. Also appointedwere Melissa Vance and Darrin Orr,leading the Midwest and eastern regions,respectively…Symetrix has promotedTrent Wagner to senior productmanager and hired Derrick Davis toserve as marketing communicationsmanager…Broadcast Pix has addedMichael “Aussie” Holten as seniorworkflow engineer…Bosch CommunicationsSystems has appointed KeesGeerts as product marketing manager,Conferencing Systems AMEC…AVI-SPL has added Joseph Ventrone asa sales engineer for the JacksonvilleFL office…Calypso Control Systemshas added Ben Plewak as regionalsales manager for the northeast regionof the US…Clear-Com CommunicationSystems has hired Bob Romeroas global customer operations director…BillGroener has joined Tim HunterDesign as president/COO…MadSystems has added Victor Hobbs toits team as COO…ClearOne has selectedMark Allen Fletcher to be VP ofworldwide sales….nOctober 2008 91

COMPILED BY DAN FERRISIAll specifications supplied by manufacturers and/or distributors.Yamaha’s ACD1 Amp Control DeviceElite Screens’ Raptor Projection ScreenKlein +Hummel’sPAS 100Self-PoweredIndoor/OutdoorSpeakerMackie’s PPM608 Professional Powered MixerAMX’s Distributed Media LineAMX’s Endeleo Distributed Medialine expands with several UniversalDistribution Matrix (UDM) solutions:the UDM-0808 SignatureSeries Multi-Format DistributionHub (UDM-0808-SIG) supports 8multi-format video sources and 8displays; the UDM-RX02N Multi-Format Receiver; and the UDM-ABB-8 Signature Series AudioBreakout (UDM-ABB8-SIG). TheUDM-0808-SIG and UDM-RX02Nare the first Native NetLinx Endeleoproducts from AMX, whichmeans they automatically appearin NetLinx Studio, an AMX softwareapplication that integratesprogramming, organization andsupport into a single application.The UDM-0808-SIG expands themaximum number of video sourcessupported by an Endeleo UDMMulti-Format Distribution Hub from4 to as many as 8.AMX(800) 222-0193www.amx.comElite Screens’Floor Rising ScreenElite Screens’ Raptor, an electricfloor-rising screen that concealsitself in a functional furniture cabinet,is appropriate when wall orceiling projection installations arenot practical. Comes in 72", 84"or 100" measured diagonally witha 16:9 aspect ratio. Available withMaxWhite FG fiberglass-backedmaterial to provide a flat, easilyvisible surface in 1.1 gain forpresentation versatility. Raptor ishoused in a fully functional mediacabinet that accommodates myriadmedia players and software.Furniture finish options are matteblack or cherry wood surfaces. Thescreen’s mechanized cross-risingapparatus is driven by a tubularmotor that has a high weight toleranceand operational lifespan. Providesa range of control options forincreased flexibility.Elite Screens(877) 511-1211www.elitescreens.comYamaha’s Amp Control DeviceYamaha Commercial Audio Systems’ACD1 amp control deviceenables complete remote controland monitoring of power ampsand provides a means to connecta computer running Yamaha’s NetworkAmpManager II amp controland monitoring software to YamahaTn, PC1N, XP, XM and XH seriesamps. Up to 32 daisy-chained Tnand/or PC1N series amps canbe connected to the ACD1 DATAPORT connector via standard Ethernetcables, whereas as many as8 XP, XM and/or XH series ampscan be connected to individualMONITOR/REMOTE connectorsvia appropriate D-sub cables. TheYamaha TXn power amp connectsdirectly to NetworkAmp ManagerII via Ethernet without the needfor the ACD1, so the user can simultaneouslyconnect TXn ampswith other Yamaha amps via anACD1 unit to a single computerby using a standard high-speedEthernet hub.Yamaha Commercial AudioSystems(714) 522-9011www.yamaha.com/caKlein + Hummel’sSelf-Powered SpeakerKlein + Hummel’s PAS 100 portable,self-powered indoor/outdoorspeaker, offering integration withSennheiser’s wireless mic technology,features 2 option slots forSennheiser evolution wireless G2series receivers or a built-in CD/MP3 player in addition to externalinputs for a mic and music playback.The NTRL-approved PAS100 is appropriate for use in venueapplications such as hotels, localgatherings and small performanceareas by fitness instructors, educatorsand public speakers. The biamplifiedunit offers a 50W wooferplus a 20W tweeter mounted ona professional horn design andgenerates an SPL of 118dB. Thespeaker has a frequency range of75Hz-18kHz with a directivity of90°Hx40°V (above 2.5kHz).Klein + Hummelc/o Sennheiser Electronic Corp.(860) 434-9190www.klein-hummel.comMackie’s Pro Powered MixersMackie’s PPM608, PPM1008 andPPM1012 comprise a line of ultra-lightpro powered mixers, eachfeaturing Mackie Class-D FastRecovery Amplifiers, which arecooler running and more efficientthan their predecessors. Pro mixingtools include Mackie preamps,2 built-in DI boxes, 3-band ActiveEQ and in-line compressors. Theonboard 32-bit RMFX+ effectsprocessor features a set of Mackiereverbs, choruses and multi-tapdelays. The PPM608 8-channel,1000W powered mixer includes 8mic preamps, 48V phantom powerand 6 TRS inserts. The PPM10088-channel powered mixer provides1600W of power, 8 mix preamps,92 Sound & CommunicationsFor more information about these companies, go to www.bluebookonline.net www.soundandcommunications.com

Atlas Sound’s Varizone VAB SystemRF Connectors’ SolderlessRight-Angle QMA ConnectorWohler’s RM-3270W-HD HD Monitor PackExtron Electronics’ CrossPoint UltraSeries Matrix Switchers48V phantom power and 6 TRS inserts.The PPM1012 12-channelpowered desktop mixer features 8mic/line mono inputs and 2 stereoline inputs.Mackie(425) 892-6500www.mackie.comAtlas’ PA, VoiceEvacuation SystemExpanding on the Varizone productline, Klotz Digital and NorthAmerican Varizone distributor AtlasSound offer Varizone VAB. A systembuilt on the flexible architecturefound in the Varizone Performancefamily of components, VarizoneVAB technology combines decentralizedamplification with a centralizedframe/controller. A flexible solutioncapable of meeting the challengesfacing multi-zone, digital PAsystems, it is suited for healthcare,retail, school, office, hospitality andother complex messaging/musiczoning applications where a “1-box”matrix/amp with its own control fits.As the acronym VAB implies, thetechnology is appropriate for applicationsrequiring voice evacuation,announcement and BGM. At theheart of the system lies the VAB1Controller and Integrated ProgrammableAmp Module (I-PAM). Offersdynamic zoning capabilities and anintuitive GUI.Atlas Sound(800) 876-3333www.atlassound.comRF Connectors’Right-Angle QMA ConnectorTraditional right-angle connectorsrequire soldering the center conductor,which can increase the difficultyof field installation and timerequired. RF Industries’ RF Connectorsdivision produces a solderlessright-angle QMA connector (RQA-5010-8X), which is similar to theSMA internal configuration with asnap-on interface that allows formating and un-mating without theuse of tools. It features a slidingsnap-lock mechanism that works bysliding the shell back and releasingto lock both connectors in place.After mating, QMA connectors canbe rotated 360°. Mating with allQMA jacks, they offer good electricalperformance up to 6GHz. Theconnector terminates .240" diameterhigh-performance, low-loss cables:Times Microwave LMR-240, AndrewCinta CNT-240, CommScope WBC-240 or Belden RF-240.RF Connectors(858) 549-6340www.rfidustries.comWohler’s HD Monitor PacksPANORAMAdtv, the video productsdiv. of Wohler Technologies,offers the first products in its RMseries of HD monitor packs. Enablevideo and audio confidencemonitoring. Every RM series HDmonitor accepts formats up to1080i60/30p and offers functionalitythat enhances monitoringprocesses. Each SDI screen candisplay 8 channels of VU overPPM audio level meters, UMD,safe areas, frame marks, croppingand switchable aspect ratios,as well as built-in color bars. Thefirst 7 models in the RM series include5 HD monitoring products:2RU RM-2443W-HD, with 4 4.3"TFT/LCD widescreen monitors;3RU RM-3270W-HD, with dual 7"TFT/LCD widescreen monitors;3RU RM-3357W-HD, with 3 5.7"TFT/LCD widescreen monitors;4RU RM-4290W-HD, with dual 9"TFT/LCD widescreen monitors;and 2RU RM-2435W-HD, with 43.5" 4:3 TFT/LCD monitors.Wohler Technologies(510) 870 0810www.wohler.comExtron’s Ultra-WidebandMatrix SwitchersExtron Electronics’ CrossPointUltra Series comprises ultra-widebandmatrix switchers. CrossPointUltras deliver good performancein hi-res computer-video and stereoaudio routing systems. Offers600MHz bandwidth; ultra-flat frequencyresponse; good efficiency,reliability, power consumptionand control. 12 models and 6 I/Osizes, from 8x4 to 16x16, featureUltra-wideband performance of525-600MHz (-3dB) RGB videobandwidth, fully loaded, dependingon model. Ultra-flat frequency responseof ±0.5dB or less throughthe critical portion of the bandwidthcurve, from 0-130MHz, translatesto a transparent AV signal pathfor the hi-res system designs withmultiple levels of signal processing.Ultra-low crosstalk, with channel-to-channelisolation of -56dBor better at 100MHz, minimizessignal leakage across video channelsand eliminates signal bleedthrough.Extron Electronics(714) 491-1500www.extron.comMilesTek’s Video IntercomsMilesTek’s HFX-800M ColorHands-Free Expandable Video Intercomand MC750 Color ExpandableVideo Intercom are suitable94 Sound & CommunicationsFor more information about these companies, go to www.bluebookonline.net www.soundandcommunications.com

eyerdynamic’s NE 900 D Cobra 2-Channel ReceiverDenon Professional’s DN-A7100 A/V Surround PreamplifierKramer’s TP-50Twisted PairReceiver AndDistribution AmpTASCAM’s CC-222SLmkII CD/Cassette Recorderfor commercial and residentialenvironments, and use simple 2-wire connections. The HFX-800Mincludes a Day-and-Night CCDchipset and full-motion audio/videorecording on a removable SecureDigital (SD) Flash-memory card.Video clips from the intercom canbe viewed and archived on anyPC or Mac. The system can be expandedto include 2 cameras and4 monitors. The MC750 incorporatesthe features of a surveillancecamera, an audio intercom and adoorbell. It includes a master 4"color LCD monitor, a doorbell anda power supply. A built-in 32-picturememory with date-and-timestamping lets users know whowas at their door. System can beexpanded up to 4 cameras and 8monitors.MilesTek(940) 484-9400www.milestek.combeyerdynamic’sWireless Systembeyerdynamic’s wireless systemwith CobraNet for digital transmission,the NE 900 D Cobra 2-channel receiver for the Opus 900wireless system, provides an integratedCobraNet interface to connectthe receiver to all CobraNetcapabledevices of more than 40manufacturers. Transmission is viastandard Cat5 Ethernet cables.CobraNet connectivity presentsadvantages for the beyerdynamicwireless system, especially forlarge-capacity systems or complexbuildings with many rooms. Thecabling is reduced as, with the CobraNettechnology, up to 32 channelscan be transmitted into eachdirection with a single 100Mbitnetwork cable. Signals can besent from any node. Settings canbe changed quickly via softwarewithout any cabling changes. Thereceiver can be placed anywherein the room. Analog input requirementsare reduced.beyerdynamic, Inc.(631) 293-3200www.beyerdynamic.comDenon’s AV Surround PreampDenon Professional’s DN-A7100A/V Surround Preamplifier is forsurround sound decoding in installedsound, house of worship,broadcast, conference and studiomonitoring applications. It providesfeatures suited for fully balanced5.1 surround and 7.1 simulatedsurround playback. The preampboasts 7.1 unbalanced line inputs,2 stereo balanced XLR inputs and8 balanced XLR line outputs. AllXLR connections are +4dB/-10dBswitchable for added signal compatibility.4 optical and 2 coaxialdigital inputs are included. AdditionalHDMI 2-source video switchingcapability is included and employsintegrated convert-to-componentadaptability for transformingcomposite and/or S-video sourcesto component video without compromisingvideo quality. Featuring192kHz/24-bit Crystal DAC’s for all8 channels and 32-bit digital surroundprocessing chipset architecture,supports surround-soundformat playback options.Denon Professional(630) 741-0330www.d-mpro.comKramer’s Twisted PairReceiver, Distribution AmpKramer Electronics’ TP-50 twistedpair receiver and distribution ampis for computer graphics video andunbalanced stereo audio or S/PDIFaudio signals. For presentation andmultimedia applications, it is appropriatefor long-range distribution ofvideo and audio signals in schools,hospitals, and security and retailapps. Twisted pair technology permitsdelivery of hi-res video overlong distances. Both a receiverand a distribution amp, it convertsthe twisted pair signal back into 2computer graphics video, stereoaudio and S/PDIF audio signals simultaneously.The unit can achieve1600x1200 UXGA resolution at amaximum range of about 330'. Upto 3 additional TP-50 units can bedaisy-chained, connecting additionaloutputs as well as extendingthe maximum signal range up toapproximately 990'.Kramer Electronics(908) 735-0018www.kramerus.comTASCAM’s CD/CassetteRecorderTASCAM’s updated combinationCD/cassette recorder, the CC-222SLmkII, includes a pitch controlfor the CD as well as the one forthe cassette. It features a cassetterecorder and a slot-loading CDrecorder transport. It offers MP3CD playback, pitch and key control,and a sample rate converterfor 48k input. 2 sets of unbalancedRCA outputs can be configuredfor independent operation or bothtransports can play through thesame set of outputs.TASCAM(323) 726-7617www.tascam.comFor more information about these companies, go to www.bluebookonline.netOctober 2008 95

Chief’s FUSION Series MountChief’s Fixed, Tilt MountsChief’s FUSION universal mounting system offers a low-profiledesign, available in fixed or tilt models for 26"-75" monitors. Representedby the 4 Cs, the FUSION Series features CenterlessLateral Shift, allowing perfect centering of a flat panel monitor,offering up to 16" of post-installation adjustment (8" left or rightof uprights), to offset the mount from studs. ControlZone Levelingprovides reliable mounting. Make all needed adjustments after themount is on the wall, including overall mount height and leveling.Centris Low-Profile Tilt provides fingertip tilting without tools whileremaining less than 2" deep. Click-Connect features an audibleclick when the screen safely engages with the mount. For easycable access, use the built-in cable stand that temporarily positionsthe screen away from the wall.Chief Manufacturing(952) 894-6280www.chiefmfg.comnCOMPILED BY DAN FERRISIPeerless’ Online PortalPeerless’ Online Portal (www.responsetrack.net/lnk/peerlessmounts876285/?14C9N0077CS.) is devotedto hospitality mounting solutionsthat assist in enhancing the guestexperience. The resource providesaccess to Peerless’ MountFinder:Enter a flat panel screen modelnumber and use the text input boxwith auto-fill feature or search viadropdown menus for manufacturerand model. The interactive portaldelivers access to product information,technical data sheets andmounting solutions suited to hospitalityapplications: in-room, lobbies,conference rooms, etc.Peerless Industries(708) 865-8870www.peerlessmounts.comWinsted’s Redesigned SiteWinsted’s redesigned website, inaddition to a new look, featuresenhanced product information,with more product and sampleAltinex’s Product Cataloginstallation images than before.Offers easier access to resourcesand support services, to includean online catalog, free designservice, online quote generator,A&E specs and color samples.A user-supported section is devotedto Winsted’s EquipmentLayout Software (WELS), whichincludes a Design Center showcasingconsole and control roomdesigns, Monitor Images, whichcan be attached to LCD, CRT andMonitor Wall screens, and Rack-ME Parts, which provide accessto OEM rackmount electronics, allof which can be downloaded foruse in WELS.Winsted Corp.(952) 944-9050www.winsted.comStage Research’s SoftwareStage Research’s new version ofits live entertainment sound playbacksoftware, SFX 6.1, featuresa Reference Guide for a quickoverview of SFX, a Users Guideand an Extensions Guide; a scrollbar for Matrix(s) to enable scrollingthrough all cross points; anincrease in dynamic range from-96dB:+5dB to -160dB:+5dB;maximum output channels set to64; new “How Do I...” help topics;plus two Active Matrix features (shiftleft and click “title” to select all crosspoints in the cue part; shift right andclick “title” to select all cross pointsin the entire related cue). Upgradesto SFX 6.1 are free for 6.0 users.Stage Research(440) 717-7510www.stageresearch.comAltinex’s Product CatalogAltinex’s product catalog, encompassingcontrol, routing and connectivitysolutions, is intended tohelp consultants, system designersand integrators locate andidentify products best suited toa particular install. Included areMultiTouch touchscreen panels,which provide a GUI for controllingAV equipment, the AVPortal+,which provides multiple solutionsfor customizing AV wall plates,the TNP601 table mount connectorsystem, the DS801-121 surfacemount connector plate and agreater selection of cables.Altinex(800) ALTINEXwww.altinex.comn96 Sound & CommunicationsFor more information about these companies, go to www.bluebookonline.net www.soundandcommunications.com

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO SOUND & COMMUNICATIONSContemporary Research232-ATSC HDTV TunerIdeal for commercial, educational, civic, and home theater, commercial installations,the Contemporary Research 232-ATSC is a universal HDTV/NTSC tunerthat receives both off-air and cable RF feeds in both ATSC (broadcast) and clearQAM (cable) formats. Take control with full 2-way RS-232, using custom systemcommands or AMX/Crestron programming modules; or use discrete IR commands.Choose from a variety of display options – the HDMI and AV ports are alwaysactive, as well as the HD RGB or Component outputs. Audio is always availablefrom the HDMI, coax, TOSlink and stereo audio ports – digital sound may be DolbyDigital 5.1, PCM, or variable PCM. Units can mount in 19” equipment racks usingsingle or dual 2RU rack mount kits.WEB ADDRESS: www.crwww.comE-MAIL: sales@crwww.comJBL ProfessionalControl Contractor 40 Series In-Ceiling LoudspeakersJBL’s Control Contractor 40 Series premium in-ceiling loudspeakers offer outstandingpattern control with superior sonic performance, featuring JBL’s proprietaryconical Radiation Boundary Integrator® (RBI) technology for seamless coverage.The five models in Control Contractor 40 Series are ideal for a wide variety ofapplications ranging from restaurant and retail settings to large casinos and busytransit centers. Control 47C/T provides extremely wide coverage, requiring fewerspeakers; Control 47LP is a low-profile model for shallow ceilings; Control 47HC isa narrow coverage model that’s ideal for high-ceiling locations or highly reverberantspaces; and the Control 42C ultra-compact satellite speaker works with theControl 40CS/T subwoofer as a full fidelity subwoofer-satellite system. All modelscan be set for either 70V or low-impedance operation. The elegant design allowsControl Contractor 40 Series to work nicely into virtually any décor.WEB ADDRESS: www.jblpro.comDa-LiteUltra Velour Staging CurtainsDa-Lite Screen Company’s new Ultra Velour drapery fabrics are designed andmanufactured to meet the demand for inherently flame retardant staging curtainsin permanent and rental applications. Ultra Velour fabric is sound neutral,weighs 10 percent less than our current drapery line, features high opacity andis machine washable. Available in three colors, black, pewter gray and blue, UltraVelour drapery tones complement most interior decors and staging venues. Thesecolors lend themselves to most professional installations giving the presentationenvironment a cohesive appearance that does not distract from the presentationor the speaker. Portability and maintenance are key issues for rental applicationsand Ultra Velour answers these concerns with a decrease in weight of 10 percentover the current Da-Lite drapery line and because it is a blended synthetic fabricis machine washable. The need for dry-cleaning and the associated costs arecompletely eliminated with Ultra Velour.WEB ADDRESS:www.dalite.com/products/product.php?cID=11&pID=457E-MAIL: info@da-lite.comCrestron ElectronicsTPS-6X TouchpanelBuilt for speed, style and versatility, the TPS-6X streamlines the Crestron familyof touchpanels. A wired panel while docked, TPS-6X communicates via Cresnet orEthernet and displays full-motion video in any size window. TPS-6X rests on thedock for fast charging and removal, or latches to the base to enable tilt functions.An optional security key permanently locks the panel on the dock. Lifting theTPS-6X off the dock instantly transforms the panel into a high-powered wirelessdevice, communicating via 2-way RF up to 200 feet (plus built-in 1-way IR). As aslim, lightweight wireless controller, TPS-6X provides exceptional graphical performanceand communication speed without the challenges of WiFi. The TPS-6Xis compact and portable, with a brilliant 5.7” active-matrix display. Available inhigh-gloss or matte finish, black or white. The TPS-6X ships with a no-button andbacklit button bezels.WEB ADDRESS: www.crestron.comOctober 2008 97

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO SOUND & COMMUNICATIONSExtron ElectronicsRGB to DVI and HDMI ScalersExtron has recently released the RGB-DVI 300 and the RGB-HDMI 300, RGBto DVI/HDMI Scalers. These scalers convert incoming analog component videoand RGBHV signals to DVI or HDMI signals. Both scalers accept HDTV and highresolution computer-video up to 1920x1200, and offer multiple, selectable outputrates up to 1920x1200, including HDTV 1080p/60. In addition, both offer AutoInput Memory that automatically stores image settings for each new incomingsignal. When the signal is recognized again from a newly connected source, imagesettings are automatically recalled. The RGB-DVI 300 and RGB-HDMI 300 areideal for applications where DVI or HDMI-equipped displays are to be used withsources that output analog RGB computer-video, or in an environment with anexisting RGB infrastructure. They can also be used in systems where consolidationof various source signals to a single, common output resolution is desired.WEB ADDRESS: www.extron.comEIKI InternationalLC-SXG400 Conference Room ProjectorOne challenge for Systems Integrators is trying to satisfy clients who want HighDefinition, but still need Standard Definition. Accommodating both standard andwidescreen aspect ratios gracefully and still within budget hasn’t been easy. Butnow you can exceed expectations, with the EIKI LC-SXG400 Conference RoomProjector. This 1400 x 1050 (SXGA+) rich color 3 LCD projector has a native 4:3aspect ratio, and is 4200 ANSI Lumens bright. It encompasses not only XGA and720p, but also other versions of widescreen either native, or proportionately scaled.A range of interchangeable lenses and well thought-out design features make thisa versatile installation projector. The LC-SXG400 incorporates breakthroughs inLCD manufacture that heighten contrast and increase the pixel aperture. At twicethe resolution of XGA, the result is a breathtaking picture ... even up close.WEB ADDRESS: www.eiki.comE-MAIL: info@eiki.comSencoreVisionHDQ Video ProcessorThe VisionHDQ Video Processor provides a cornerstone for the ultimate hometheater or professional AV video presentation. The HDQ provides input switching,deinterlacing, digital filtering, signal processing, and detail enhancing scaling resultingin improved video resolution and detail. Ten inputs provide compatibility with mostvideo sources including digital SDI sources. The DVI-D or DVI-A output has selectableresolutions to 1080p providing a high resolution output signal for both analogdisplays or digital DVI or HDMI displays. The VisionHDQ provides unprecedentedoutput and input calibration capabilities with its internal configuration memories.Eight independent output and four input configurations are possible. It furtherfeatures an 11 point gamma/greyscale calibration capability along with black level,white level, and color & hue adjustments.WEB ADDRESS: www.sencore.comE-MAIL: sales@sencore.comLG ElectronicsLCD Touch Screen MonitorsLG Electronics’ new LCD touch screen monitors are designed to breathe life into avariety of environments from retail spaces to classrooms. With advanced interactivecapabilities these models bring advanced technology to the fingertips of consumersand students. Engaging people of ages, these models are available in 32 and 42-inch class sizes*. LG’s touch screen monitors provide the ability to access uniqueprogramming such as real-time news casts, interactive web-based lesson plans, andonline customer service. With a 9 millisecond refresh rate, education providersand retailers will appreciate how quick content populates on the screen ensuringstudents and consumers remain actively engaged. While the 3000:1 contrast ratio,500 cd/m2 High Brightness level, and 1366 x 768 (WXGA) display resolution allowvivid color and images to be distinctly defined. *M3202T-BA 32-inch Class/31.5”diagonal; *M4212T-BA 42-inch Class/42.0” diagonalWEB ADDRESS: www.LGcommerical.com98 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO SOUND & COMMUNICATIONSRPG Diffusor SystemsModex Low FrequencyAbsorbersAs sound systems increase in powerand low frequency extension, inadequatelow frequency absorptionin the venue can result in a muddysound and long low frequency reverberationtimes. RPG has developeda wide range of low frequency absorberscalled Modex, which offerefficient absorption down to 50 Hzwith a thickness of only 4”. The ModexPlate (left) is a powder coateddamped metal plate resonator that offerslow frequency shelving between50 and 300 Hz. The Modex Broadband(right) adds porous absorptionon the face covered with a perf metal screen to efficiently absorbs between50 and 5,000 Hz, providing broad bandwidth control. Both of these productsare 1 m (3.28’) wide by 1.5 m (4.9’) tall and typically mount directly to aboundary, with provided hardware, in a high pressure location (wall-wall orwall-wall-ceiling intersection). In addition, RPG also offers the cost-effective,fabric covered, veneered or painted 48” x 96” x 5” Large Format Modex Module,which provides low frequency shelving control down to 80 Hz. Now you cancontrol bass in less space!WEB ADDRESS: www.rpginc.comE-MAIL: info@rpginc.comWhirlwindMulti-zone Program and Paging ManagementThe MPM4. full function, simple, secure, and no computer required. The MPM4 doesit all with a unique, straightforward and intuitive front panel interface thatmakes setup a snap while keeping unauthorized users out. The set up couldn’tbe easier. Users can route 4 different program sources to any of 4 zones with asimple push of a button while separate Setup/User modes keep setup parameterssecure. Only Source/Zone assign and Zone volume are accessible when inUser mode. All of the other setup parameters can be password protected andare programmed from the front panel. No computer required. Optional wallplateremote controls can be located up to 1500’ away from the main unit and connectwith ordinary CAT-5 cables. Remotes allow selection of source, and providecontrol of volume and zone mute.WEB ADDRESS: www.whirlwindusa.comDown to business(Continued from 16)It was then that I began to understandwhat made that business tick. We didn’teven talk about rate or units or contracts,but that total sale paid our overhead fortwo months and put us on the map as thenew competitor in town.What is it that makes your businesstick? What is unique about your companythat you bring to a consultant or an enduser? Is this uniqueness clear to potentialclients? It is safe to say that consultantswant to hear about what your companybrings to their customer that no one elsecan give them. It is safe to say that thecustomer wants to reap that value. Therefore,it is also safe to say that it is worthexploring what your company does betterthan others do, and deliver that as amainstay value proposition. Because, elusiveas that may be, it is your company’sgreatest asset.nhow: business(Continued from 26)again with new conceptualizationmethodologies that will raise thelevel of its formerly well-known,world-class presentations. I knowfirsthand that the Beijing ceremonieshave caused two large internationalreligious organizations todiscard their event plans that hadbeen set for more than a year.Now they are rethinking theirentire presentation strategy,which now includes using dramaand technologies to enhance andhighlight cultural perspectivesduring their large-scale events.On a smaller scale, I alsoknow four organizations that arerethinking ways to use mediaand culture ideologies morespecifically than they had donein previous presentations. And,I also know of at least three worshipleaders who now want to ceaseusing PowerPoint-type presentationsand develop new, creative presentationsthat impact their congregationsin more meaningful and culturallyrelevant ways.I realize these examples onlyrepresent a small number of groupswithin each of these sectors. But Ibelieve these changes represent alarger move toward raising the barof presentations, on small and largescales, in organizations, includingworship settings, around the world.I also believe that these changes aredue to the spectacular ceremoniesthat were created and presented atthe Beijing Olympics.So now you know what I think. Iwant to know what you think. nOctober 2008 99

architectural perspectives(Continued from 28)achieve those. Providing an AVsolution that can be used forone of those credits, althoughit may have sustainable value,really provides little value to anarchitect figuring out how toachieve the required numberof points.Bottom line is that, in spite ofall the hype, in actuality, thereis virtually little or no opportunityfor AV systems within thecurrent LEED rating system atthis time. The next version ofthe rating system, LEED 2009,due out in several months, alsodoes little in recognizing communicationssystems.Unfortunately, there likelywill not be another overhaul ofUnconventional Convention Center(Continued from 53)three restaurants, the sports bar,the Pose Ultra Lounge, spa andsalon, as well as all the lobby,pre-function areas. Additionally,lighting effects were installedin some exterior locations andalso used to highlight the effectof the Atrium fountain.To accomplish all of this, Candelainstalled 56 dimmer racks,five standalone dimmer panels,and control and processing racks,along with area-wide signal distribution—allof which involved almost1000 connection points. Morethan 400 color-changing LED fixtureswere utilized in the ballroomsand to highlight the architecturalelements on the exterior façadeand corners of the building.For the 19 th floor Pose UltraLounge, Candela provided sixHigh End Systems DL2 digitallighting fixtures, 36 Martin automatedlighting instruments and,as Bill Ellis of Candela remarked,“numerous color-changing LEDfixtures for architectural emphasis.”To blend the visual aspectstogether, video routing is providedand coordinated through thelighting system controllers.the rating system for as longas two years. In the meantime,as an industry, we needto use that time to becomebetter organized and focusedwith our sustainable message.Although gaining formalrecognition within the LEEDrating system may still bea distant light at the end ofthe tunnel, there are manyopportunities already availableto us for incorporatingsustainable elements intoproducts and designs. As weadopt these, we will gain tractionand begin to see formalrecognition outside of ourindustry.nWhen Chess McKinney, Gaylord’sdirector of project technology,was asked to comment, hisresponse was, “I couldn’t haveasked for a more competent ordedicated group of designersand systems integrators.” Healso expressed appreciation tothe equipment suppliers for thecooperation they provided whenmodifications were required tofit the project’s specific needsMcKinney noted that hecomes from an IT backgroundand he is astounded at howcombined AV-IT systems arecoming together to satisfy theneeds of complex networks inspaces such as the Gaylord National.“To be able to walk aroundthe site and adjust lighting,AV systems and motion controlaspects from a tablet PCis simply phenomenal,” he offered.“I can sit in my officein Nashville and diagnose andmonitor performance to copewith unusual circumstances. Itis truly a successfully integratedAV-IT computer-controllednetwork.”nCommercial AudioFor Installersand Contractors100 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

SUPPLIERS NetworkableHeadphoneAmps!New MiniPodsuse quick cat5installation!Full info atwww.henryeng.comH E N R YWe BuildSolutions626-355-3656ENGINEERINGOctober 2008 101

SUPPLIERSBidMagic®professionalproposal software■ Sell More Systems■ Automate Your Proposals■ Manage Products & Labor■ Works with QuickBooksonline demo at www.bidmagic.com800-598-586030 Day No Risk GuaranteeSTEEL ROLLTOP CABINETSOffers Beautiful AND Secure Storage for allof your Audio, Video, and Lighting Equipment.Beautiful Laminates to meet any decor requirements.Perfect for Gymnasiums, Auditoriums,Multi-Purpose Rooms, Theaters, Live MusicVenues and Houses of WorshipTel: 614-873-0480Fax: 614-873-2450www.securecabinet.comstage pockets

AD INDEXCompany Page #Alcorn McBride............................66Altinex...........................................69APB-DynaSonics...........................24ASC/Acoustic Sciences Corp......83Atlas Sound...............................C-IIIAudioScience................................83Azden.............................................79Barix..............................................75BSS Audio.....................................17ClearOne Communications.........53Da-Lite Screen Company...... 12/13Da-Lite Screen Company.............33Da-Lite Screen Company...... 48/49EIKI International........................59Extron Electronics.......................41Extron Electronics...................C-IVFull Compass Systems ................71Furman Sound..............................34Galaxy Audio.................................20Gepco International.....................51HM Electronics............................60Holosonic Research Labs............50Hubbell Premise Wiring.........38-39InfoComm.....................................37Inter-M Americas.........................63JBL Professional...........................29Knox Video Technologies...........32Kramer Electronics......................31LG Electronics..............................15Meyer Sound................................35Middle Atlantic Products.............56Panasonic Professional Display..27Parts Express...............................74Peavey Electronics.......................57Premier Mounts.............................3Rane...............................................25RPG Diffusor Systems.................68RSS by Roland...............................43Sabine............................................81Samsung Electronics America....23Sencore..........................................42Sharp Electronics...........................5Soundsphere.................................46Speco Technologies...................C-llStardraw.com................................61Stewart Audio...............................85Stewart Filmscreen......................21Suntronic/i-Tech..........................68SurgeX...........................................67SVSi/Southern Vision Systems..73Texas Instruments.......................11Whirlwind........................................8Wiremold......................................19Yamaha Commercial Audio...........7Yamaha Commercial Audio.........47EMPLOYMENTATK Services, a division of ATK Audiotek, is a fullservice audio/visual systems design andinstallation company. ATK Serviceshas the following open positions;Operations Manager Must have 5+ years experiencein the audio/ video installation business.Expertise in project management, supply chain management and production scheduling.Good human resource skills and experience dealing with compensation issues. Ability tothink analytically and strategically and communicate effectively with senior managementis critically important.Design Engineer Must have 5+ years proven track record in audio/video design andintegration. Experience and facility with AMX and/or Crestron control system code andCADD design. Written and verbal communication skills are extremely important.Demonstrated ability to manage projects from conception to conclusion.Our benefits package includes medical, dental, life and disability insurance and a 401(k) plan.ATK Audiotek is an Equal Opportunity EmployerPlease send your resume and salary requirements in confidence to;Bill Lincoln @ ATK Audiotek, 28238 Ave Crocker, Valencia, CA 91355blincoln@atkaudiotek.com www.atkaudiotek.comJoin one of the nation’s top commercial A/V contractors! In business since 1973, our clients includeworld-class entertainment, casino, corporate, educational, airport, sporting, houses of worship, andgovernment facilities. As we continue to grow, we are seeking top-notch A/V professionals for ourorganization., FAV is best known for the quality of people that serve our customers.Opportunities are currently available for:Division Manager ~ DenverProgress ProgrammerProject EngineersControl Systems ProgrammersCommercial Sales/ Account ManagersChurch Sales/ Account ManagersJob SuperintendentsProject ManagersWith offices in Las Vegas, Houston, Denver, Austin, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and Dallas, FAV offerscompetitive salary and benefits. We are seeking those committed to long-term employment. Email: hr@fordav.com; Fax: 405/ 946-9991; visit: www.fordav.com; Phone: 800/ 654-6744; EOE/AA/M/F/D/VHelping People Communicate!4800 West Interstate 40 Oklahoma City, OK 73128 • (405) 946-9966 • Fax (405) 946-9991 • www.fordav.comMake the Best Move of Your Career!Join an award-winning comany that will help you make the most of yourskills, talents and desire to succeed.AVI-SPL, an industry leader in cutting-edge AV technology, is seekingtop-notch, motivated professionals to join our dynamic team!With our global network of 40 offices and an increasing clientbase, we have immediate openings in the following areas:Design & EngineeringRental & StagingAV Product & AV System SalesProject & Construction ManagementTo find out more about our exciting opportunities, visitwww.avispl.com, and click on ABOUT AVI-SPL - Careers at AVI-SPL.Benefits include competitive compensation, health insurance, 401k and tuition reimbursement. DFWP/EOE104 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

SUPPLIERSFor the largest selection ofPro A/V Premium Balunswww.etslan.com 1-800-752-8208SOUND CONTROLToll-FreeNumber:Full product line for sound controland noise elimination.www.acousticsfirst.com®8 8 8 - 76 5 - 2 9 0 0Thermal ControlMarketplace Ads WorkCall Linda Inglima516-767-2500 x510October 2008 105

Hospitality MarketBy Dan Ferrisi“Data Scan” is our monthly analysis of information provided by respondents to our annual Commercial Systems Integration Survey (the 23 rdedition, published with the July 2008 issue) and the Worship Center Survey (the 11 th edition, published with the March 2008 issue).Each month, we examine cross-referenced data culled from responses to specific questions from the surveys. This information is meant tosupplement the published reports, not duplicate those efforts.To tie in with this issue’s hotels and restaurants theme, we areanalyzing information provided by respondents to the 23 rd annualCommercial Systems Integration Survey who indicated in Question#18 (asking about venues and percentages of each company’s business)that 10% or more of their business relates to hotel integrationprojects.Question #4 addresses business trends, specifically total dollarsales for one year compared to the previous year. For this question,we have four years of data with which to work, and thetrend evinced is unmistakable: Year by year, the hotel market isstrengthening. In 2004, only 48% of respondents indicated they hadexperienced a business increase of 5% or more; by contrast, thistime, nearly 85% reported such a business boost. It is notable thatno one reported a business increase of less than 5%. However, thismerely means all integrators experiencing an increase are enjoyingone of a comparatively larger magnitude. With respect to businessdecreases, fewer respondents reported one this time (merely 8%)than any other year charted.Question #7 asks about average dollar size of projects. Because,for the 22 nd survey, project size ranges were changed, we supplytwo years of data. It is difficult to discern any intelligible trendswith respect to this chart; perhaps this is due to the relativelysmall number of respondents in each market segment. In anyevent, we see a steep decline (17 percentage points) in respondentsindicating an average project size between $25,000 and$100,000. We see an even sharper spike vis-à-vis the $100,000 to$500,000 range, which leapt from 0% in 2006 to 25% this time. Curiously,although 17% of respondents selected >$1,000,000 in 2006,that category fell to 0% this time. It seems we will not have anyclear picture for this question until next year’s data arrives in July.Question #10 relates to the number of projects completed in theprevious six-month period. Although we have a four-year set of data,once again, the percentage-point distribution is chaotic and difficultto synopsize neatly. Looking at the data for 100Based on responses to the 23 rd Annual Commercial Systems Integration Survey, published in the July 2008 issue, which polled 2800 Sound &Communications readers across the US. This survey report is sent to subscribers as part of their subscription to Sound & Communications. Additionalcopies of the survey are available for $2.95. To request Commercial Systems Integration Surveys, subscribe to the magazine and read selectarticles, visit www.soundandcommunications.com.106 Sound & Communicationswww.soundandcommunications.com

Complex ProblemsToday’s outdoor sports facilities demandsound systems capable of highoutput and precise pattern control.SPL requirements, coveragepatterns, and mounting scenariosvary greatly - one size will notfi t all!Installation has to be easy viaincluded hardware or easyimplementation of 3 rd partysolutions for pole mounting.©2008 Atlas Sound LP. Atlas Sound is a trademark of Atlas Sound L.P. All other Trademarks are property of their respective owners. All rights reserved. ATS002676 RevA 9/08AtlasSolutionsAH SERIES STADIUM HORNSPrecision-engineered dispersion patterns provide maximum SPLcapabilities while maintaining audio integrity and intelligibility.Atlas Sound offers 8", 12", & 15" solutions each with popularcoverage patterns - 50° x 40°, 65° x 65°, & 90° x 40° for 15" modelsand 90° x 90°, 65° x 65°, & 90° x 40° for 8" & 12" models - oneseries with models to fi t all!All models (except AHSUB15S) include a versatile stainless steelmounting bracket. In addition, Atlas Sound offers Allen Productsmounting solutions for easy pole mounting installation.The family of AH Series Stadium Horns from Atlas Sound iscomprised of ten distinct models with specifi c pattern control,powerful accurate performance, and quality installation options.AH99-8STAH94-8STAH66-8STAH99-12STAH94-12STAH66-12STAH5040SAH6565SAH9040SAHSUB15SLearn more about how Atlas can solve your complex problems@ AtlasSound.com or call 800•876•3333Ask yourAtlas Representativefor a demo anddiscover how thesimple solution is theAtlas Solution!Designed & Engineered byAtlas Sound in the USAISO9001-2000-CERTIFIED-

Control up to 10 separate matrix switchersfrom the intuitive QS-FPC - QuickSwitchFront Panel ControllerChoice of threeenclosure sizes:3U with 6 slots4U with 8 slots5U with 10 slots3G-SDI Matrixboards availableIP Link® Ethernetmonitoring and controlwith advanced systemdiagnosticsHot-swappable matrixboards can be installed orremoved at any time withoutdisrupting operationDVI and HDMI Matrixboards availableSimple 4-step board installationsaves time and money:1. Remove cover plate2. Install new board3. Set plane ID4. Re-initialize enclosureThe Extron SMX System MultiMatrixTruly Modular, Field-Configurable Matrix Switching SystemThe SMX System MultiMatrix combines multiple, independent analog and digital matrix switchers in a truly modular, field-configurable enclosuresystem. Up to 10 separate matrix switchers can be switched independently or simultaneously, all under a single point of control. The Extron SMXmulti-matrix system is an ideal choice for mid-sized applications where multiple signal types need to be routed quickly and efficiently, includingmedical imaging systems, board rooms, conference rooms and training facilities.Key Features: Truly modular, field-reconfigurable chassis design preservessystem investment by easily adapting to changing signal routingrequirements and technologiesHot-swappable matrix boards keep primary switching system fullyoperational while upgrades are in processSimple 4-step board installation saves time and money by keepingprimary installation intact during upgradesSingle point of control for up to 10 separate switcherssimplifies operation and control system designSMX matrix switcher boards are available in I/O sizes of 4x4,8x4, 8x8, and 16x16 to support most popular A/V signal types.Signal Types:Composite videoS-videoComponent Video/HDTVWideband RGBMulti-rate SDI andHD-SDIKey Features:Online SMX Configuratorallows you to createdifferent SMX SystemMultiMatrix switcherswith the click of a mousewww.extron.com/smx20DVIDVI with HDCPHDMI with HDCPFiber Optic800.633.9876 www.extron.com/smx20

SOUND & COMMUNICATIONS HOTELS & RESTAURANTS OCTOBER 2008

Sound & Communications October 20, 2008 Issue

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