Spherical Mapping™ is a new feature for the DL.2™ Digital Light and Axon™ media server. The Version 1.3.2 software advances the edge-blending Collage Generator™ software of the two products. Within the software are additional new effects and software enhancements. The Global Matte Effect allows the user to superimpose up to 20 different, predefined mattes for layering images with multiple transparency and color options. Framing and Edge Fade profiles have also been added to expand the existing edge fade parameters. For example, the user may create stylized framing by using other layers as content for the edge fade. The user may also create framing shutter effects. The software also resolves some connectivity issues many laptop users faced when using multiple network connections simultaneously. The beta version was recently tested at the Wincor World Exhibition 2007 in Germany (pictured). LD Holger Steffentorweihen used Spherical Mapping with eight DL.1s and eight Axon Media Servers from production company LK-AG.
www.highend.com
Soft-LED® 2.5 dynamic video drapery has LED node spacing at 2.5" (60mm) centers for increased display resolution. The drape features a black background and content-processing racks for assembling systems of various sizes. Drapes hang in any direction. Standard panel sizes include 20'11"×10'1" (6.4m × 3.1m) and 31'4"×6'9" (9.5m × 2m); custom sizes and shapes are also available. Both standard panels include 4,800 RGB LED nodes and weigh 198lbs. (90kg) each. Four male Ramtech Ramlatch connectors receive power and data for each panel. Rental packages from Main Light include touring racks, video processor, pixel mapping, and preparation.
www.mainlight.com
The latest version of VideoSuite adds support for dual-core processors, with multithreading for faster high-speed conversion. A new Capture Video module saves video as it's shot. A Video Message module adds one of more than 20 professional frames available. Users can convert to a portable device — iPod, PSP, PDA, or cell phone — as files are compressed automatically to AVI, DVD, MPEG, MPEG-4, 3GPP, 3GPP2, MOV, IFO, VOB, DAT, WMV, or ASF files. Version 4 also includes presets for popular video formats and devices, and it automatically moves videos and DVDs between different formats and devices. Tools are also included for batch-file conversion. A new advanced mode enables users to change, adjust, and fine-tune parameters when converting video, as well as merge multiple video files in any supported format. High-speed splitting technologies save AVI and MPEG formats without recompression or loss of quality. Users can also extract movie segments and music, and then join individual segments and files together to make a new movie and use the same tools to extract a song from a DVD. Effects filters, automatic filters, and professional-grade filters are included. Users may also clone, burn, and share data, DVDs, and CDs.
www.movavi.com
The standalone Nugget HD video player now features extensive video file-format support via the new Doremi Asset Manager software. Asset Manager simplifies the selection and Ethernet transfer of video files such as QuickTime, MXF, AVI, and WMV to the internal hard drive. The operator adds the desired files into the clip database, and the software transparently handles the synchronization and transfer of content to the Nugget's hard drive. The high-resolution HD video playback is suitable for high-resolution video projectors, plasmas, and LCDs. The Nugget plays HD and SD video files up to 80 Mbits/sec (4:2:2 and 4:2:0). Output formats include DVI, HD-SDI, SDI, and composite video. The unit is housed in a 1RU chassis and is available in a standard and pro version. The standard version features composite and DVI video outputs, and six channels of analog and IEC-958 audio. Nugget Pro adds HD-SDI and SDI video outputs, LTC I/O, sync input, and six channels AES/EBU digital audio. The player is also available in a 2RU chassis with a removable hard drive.
www.doremilabs.com
The Roadster HD18K projector delivers 17,500 ANSI lumens. Powered by 3-chip DLP technology and Xenon illumination, it features an HD 1,920×1,080 engine and 1,600 to 2,000:1 full-field contrast ratio. Built-in stacking and rigging points make it easy to set up for redundancy or to increase brightness, with user-replaceable bulbs for lower power consumption and cost. The projector displays both 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios, with HD 4:4:4 capabilities and Digital Black Level control that can be used with the built-in edge-blending feature. It also includes 10-bit image processing, seamless switching, picture-in-picture, Christie LiteLOC for constant screen brightness, and the Christie ILS (Intelligent Lens System) for zoom and focus. A built-in RJ45 networking port uses the ChristieNET networking solution for remote monitoring and control of projectors.
www.christiedigital.com
The Mac Universal Binary version of Strata™ 3D CX™ 5.1 is a free update for current Strata 3D CX 5 users, with speed increases on Intel-powered Macintosh computers, enhancements, and bug fixes. The interface and tools have been improved to be more familiar to current Adobe customers, including the ability to render a 3D layered Photoshop file and use PSD file layer compression. All image components — specular highlights, reflections, scene depth, shadows, and transparency — are on separate layers. The software also adds the ability to render to Strata Live 3D. Also new are an improved SDS Modeler, a revamped geometry deforming Skeleton System, and new scripting power through the Lua Scripting language, which has already resulted in the new Script FX and Filter FX special effects modules. Additional features include a new History palette; support for fully “Quad”-based polygon objects with improved Boolean operations; stacking, docking, and other palette-management options; and stopwatch-based animation controls.
www.strata.com
Maestro software offers users the power to centrally manage projectors, displays, audio and videoconferencing systems, power amplifiers, DVD and CD players, and more. A Windows-based application, the software works with Calypso's ION and Pro I/O network-based controllers. From the console, users can control operational aspects of individual components in real time or according to predetermined schedules, as well as receive realtime status reports on system conditions such as projector lamp and filter hours. It is capable of sending its users email alerts informing them of specific system conditions, such as when a projector's lamp life has reached 500 hours. Tools for basic asset management and maintenance scheduling are also included, as are provisions for usage logging and reporting.
www.calypsocontrol.com
New collections of royalty-free stock footage scheduled for release this month by Artbeats include Burning House, Catholics, Code Rage, Lightning Storms, Mayhem HD, Misc. Fire, Protestants, Storm Clouds 2, Texas Aerial Solo Clips, Timelapse Flowers 3, Timelapse Landscapes 4, Worshippers, and Grow! The footage is available in HD-1, 920×1, 080, D1 NTSC-720×486, or D1 PAL-720×576 resolutions.
www.artbeats.com
Easy Fade and Easy Cut are two new high-resolution video scalers and audio video switchers combining the functions of both devices. These state-of-the-art scaler/line multiplier/quadrupler/doublers significantly increase video image resolution and brightness. Three computer inputs provide direct display of presentations or Internet applications and also allow audio stereo switching. Easy Fade includes cut, fade, and title (between computer and video sources), while Easy Cut includes cut and smooth switching. Both feature computer output format up to 1,600×1,200; four video inputs including one RGB or YUV component on BNC; analog output on an HD15 connector; RGB output up to UXGA; two switching modes (seamless or smooth switching); and non-volatile frame memory.
www.analogway.com
Motor is a dedicated rotoscope application built on Imagineer's 2.5D planar tracking and Spline technology. The application enables users to rotoscope footage three to four times faster than with traditional tools. Integration between the tracker and rotoscope capabilities yields high-quality matte production with a high level of detail. The software is compatible with many design platforms, including Autodesk discreet, Avid DS, Adobe After Effects, Quantel generationQ, and Apple Shake.
www.imagineersystems.com
The Xi Series features multi-use digital video recorders delivering digital video in either single- or dual-channel models, offering fixed or removable SATA hard drives, optional SDI (serial digital interface), full variable-speed playback control, and USB 2 download ports. All models in the series feature QuickTime file formats, composite and Y/C I/O, RS-422 control, scalable motion JPEG compression rates from 4:1 to 20:1, front panel touchscreens, loop record, simple playlist management, two audio channels per video channel, and timecode I/O.
www.ffv.com/
The Transition is a CMY fiber illuminator that uses a similar CMY dichroic color-mixing technology to Wybron's Nexera lighting fixtures. Using a 150W compact UHI light source, it offers smooth color changes with nearly infinite color choices and silent operation. The light source is separated from the light output and has no current. Its fiber-optic strands do not conduct UV radiation; the unit allows the fiber common ends to remain cool without burning PMMA fiber. It has a compact design that measures less than 6" wide and weighs less than 8lbs. The unit includes an integral electronic ballast and power supply. It has a 10,000-hour lamp life, accepts 17 to 34mm common-end fiber bundles, and is RDM-compliant.
www.wybron.com
The LDS-610 stick dimmer is suitable for any retrofit or application where space and available power are an issue. Each dimmer can be discretely located and powered by as little as a 20A, three-phase circuit. The convection-cooled unit features six channels of dimming with 1,200W per channel, terminal power input with phase detection, an internal single-/three-phase switch, and encapsulated chokes for near-silent operation. Options include Edison, stage pin, or twist-lock output connectors.
www.leprecon.com
Version 3.3 for Marquee® Lighting Control consoles is now available for download. Designed by Horizon Control Inc., this version introduces two new advancements, including the ability to network up to five Marquee consoles — or secondary computers running Marquee PC software — and have them work together as one, known as Remote Sessions. Remote console processors, or remote secondary computers running software, are connected to the primary console via an RJ45 Ethernet network and then by entering the IP address of the primary console. Once connected, the remote consoles have full control over the primary console. Also new is the capability to automatically record to a secondary (redundant) processor, or Tracking Back-Up. This allows a second console processor or secondary computer to be networked to the primary console via an RJ45 Ethernet network so that, in the event of a primary processor failure, the software will automatically switch to the backup.
www.etdimming.com
W-DMX Generation 3 a new product range for wireless DMX, with features such as overview of signal strength and battery power and full implementation of DMX-over-Ethernet. The range has a high-power radio output with up to 275mW (FCC; 100mW, Europe/Asia) and offers indoor to outdoor units with IP65 and NEMA 6 standards. The line includes full support of RDM and is CE- and ETSI-certified in Europe and Asia, FCC-certified in the Americas (awaiting UL), and certified in Japan with ARIB STD-T66 radio standards. Features include signal strength to monitor the signal on all units; new battery function with UPS for up to eight hours on most units; battery-level indicator; improved antenna connector; DMX I/O or DMX Out x2; DMX-over-Cat-5, a total of four RJ45s; the option to run all units on a low-voltage power supply; and improved chassis in die-cast aluminum. Updated versions of the S-1 transmitter and R-512 receiver are also available, now as the S-2 dual-universe transmitter, R-512 pro receiver, and T-1 transceiver, all with a one-button toggle.
www.wirelessdmx.com
The LuxDrive 4015 BoostPuck LED driver module powers large LED arrays in series from low-voltage power sources, driving 10 LEDs at 350mA in series from 12VDC. Its compact size makes it suitable for OEMs interested in integrating the driver directly into a fixture or for those unable to use a remote driver due to size or other constraints. This drop-in module offers dimming, flash, and strobe operation. With the use of a dimming module, the BoostPuck will provide 0 to 10V dimming control capable of interfacing with traditional commercial dimming systems. The module provides a stable platform for powering LEDs and can achieve up to 95% efficiency.
www.luxdrive.com
Serapid's new push/pull seating chain features a redesign of the original and can used in telescopic seating systems and in retractable bleacher systems. It is a specially designed rigid push-chain system that can move a horizontal load along a floor. The chain is rigid in one direction and becomes compacted in the other direction for storage. For the seating system, wheels of non-marking rubber are placed on the chain to facilitate rolling on the floor.
www.serapid.com
Slip NoMor Finish is designed to keep dance or theatre flooring safe and looking new for up to two years. With one application of two coats, facilities can control the degree of co-efficiency and have a consistent non-slip surface without rinsing, reapplying, or burnishing. The finish comes in vinyl or wood kits, each including one 1.3-gallon bottle of cleaner/stripper, two 1.5-gallon bottles of finish, one 1.3-gallon bottle of weekly cleaner, and one applicator. The finish covers approximately 1,000sq-ft., and the weekly cleaner lasts about one year based on a 1,000sq-ft. space.
www.stagestep.com
The new K8 digital audio distribution system can be used for simple point-to-point connections, or it can form a distribution backbone for sending up to 16 audio channels to multiple remote locations. The system carries 16 channels of uncompressed digital audio over a standard Cat-5 cable at a rate of 48kHz, with a depth of 24 bits, and a total latency of less than 1 millisecond. The same cable also carries bi-directional data for remote monitoring and control of all devices connected within the K8 system over a single Ethernet port. Cable lengths may be run up to a total of 200m through passively daisy-chained K8 devices. Actively refreshing the line with a K8 distribution amplifier allows endless additions of 200m cable lengths and adds less than 1ms of delay. For advanced applications, multi-output distribution amplifiers may be used to implement a star distribution configuration, and the entire system may be monitored from a single Ethernet port with no additional cabling.
www.klein-hummel.com
www.sennheiserusa.com
The NuQ systems of fully integrated, networkable sound reinforcement packages are offered either as digitally self-powered units or as discrete loudspeakers used with optimized Turbosound controllers and power amplifiers. TurboDrive software provides realtime, intuitive control of Turbosound controllers and powered loudspeakers individually or over a network. The systems make exclusive use of advanced neodymium magnets, low-distortion rotatable high-frequency wave-guides, and pre-bent plywood construction, and they are offered in different sizes and output capability. The 8" passive two-way NuQ-8 delivers 124dB max SPL, while the 10" passive two-way NuQ-10 clocks in at 127dB max SPL. The 12" two-way NuQ-12 and 15" two-way NuQ-15 are both switchable active/passive cabinets delivering 133dB and 135dB, respectively. All two-way enclosures feature wide-dispersion rotatable Converging Elliptical Waveguides for even coverage, as well as symmetrically shaped quasi-trapezoidal cabinets. Two complementary low-frequency cabinets provide sub-bass support: a compact 15" front-loaded bass enclosure and an 18" bandpass subwoofer. Both are equipped with flush handles, corner protectors, and pole-mount sockets. Digitally self-powered variants of all models are also available, offering the same performance from fully integrated, optimally matched, Class-D amplifier modules with 96kHz sample rates, operating at better than 90% efficiency.
www.turbosound.com
www.sennheiserusa.com
Version 4 of the Eclipse high-performance intercom system offers enhancements to fulfill the needs of live performance and broadcast engineers. Increased capabilities include the introduction of comprehensive fiber-networking support (E-FIB), simplified configuration, and improved features in Eclipse Configuration Software (ECS). In concert with a new E-FIB card, this version allows fiber linking between Eclipse intercom matrices of the Median and Omega classes so that large or multi-venue productions can tie intercom systems together. Multiple systems may then act as one non-blocking matrix system using redundant high-capacity fiber and resulting in a large, high-quality, full-duplex communication. The dual concentric fiber ring provides full redundancy while maintaining audio links, even when the main fiber pair is fully disconnected in more than one place. The fiber networking comes with extensive diagnostics that help to centrally or remotely manage a large multi-system network. Upgrades to the ECS configuration software include moving to a Microsoft Windows look and feel. ECS enhancements include click-and-drop key label assignment, and fiber and trunk networking. The software also features Dual Talk and Listen operation and additional Swap page on i-station panels. The Dual Talk and Listen function mimics lever key operation on pushbuttons, effectively doubling the number of keys. This gives the i-station a Swap page that doubles the pushbuttons to 62 in 1RU.
www.clearcom.com
The DSP5D is a standalone DSP expander for the PM5D digital sound reinforcement console that expands the capabilities of the board to 96 mono and 16 stereo input channels. It includes two additional card slots with more effects and dynamics processing and can be used with a PC and Yamaha Studio Manager software. If using ADK's 4U rackmounted LYVE Tracker, the PM5D can also provide a recording solution capable of up to 192 simultaneous tracks. The LYVE Tracker features Intel's new Core 2 Duo and RME MADI technologies and is equipped with removable hard drive bays and a DVD-RW for backup and archiving. When a PM5D is used with the DCU5D Ethernet audio cascade unit and a DSP5D, the DSP5D can be set in a remote location and controlled from the PM5D up to 100m using Cat-5, doubling the mixing power of the console's input channels, effects processors, and other console connectivity features. A second unit can be added to provide further expansion of up to 144 mono plus 24 stereo input channels. The rackmount unit is controlled via the master PM5D console. Multiple units can be used in situations where distance requires Ethernet audio cabling connectivity. Units can be retrofit to existing PM5D consoles. In addition, the new DCU5D can connect 32-bus cascade ports of a single or even two PM5D digital consoles to the DSP5D using Ethernet audio, and makes possible connection of up to 100m between multiple units. The DCU5D is configured from within the DSP5D and uses a single Ethernet cable.
www.yamahaca.com