In a word, it was big. One hundred and eighty new exhibitors (total 855), 31,300 attendees (an 18.4% increase over 2006) and 465,000 square feet of exhibit space. You really needed your walkin’ shoes for this one. InfoComm 07 at the Anaheim Convention Center There was much to see and do at InfoComm 07. We’ll go over some of the highlights of the show:
Audio
Audio-Technica introduced SpectraPulse Ultra Wideband (UWB) wireless microphone system. While not yet available in a configuration that is applicable for use in houses of worship (handheld, or bodypack transmitters), the technology looks promising and definitely worth keeping your eye on.
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Crown CDi 4000 |
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Soundcraft FX16ii |
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JBL VT4887A |
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L-ACOUSTICS KIVA |
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Community VERIS Family |
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Martin Audio LE1500 |
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Electro-Voice RE97-2Tx |
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Panasonic PT-DW5100U |
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Digital Projection International TITAN HD-600 |
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Extron Electronics SI 3 |
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Extron Electronics MTP U R RS SEQ |
BSS showcased the Soundweb London BLU-8 Zone Controller. BLU-8 is a single-, four- or eight-zone Ethernet wall controller.
Crown Audio brought their new CDi 4000, power that features 1200 watts per channel into four ohms, with a suggested US list price of $1,800.00.
Soundcraft announced three new FX models – the FX16ii, EFX and MFX – each featuring Lexicon 24-bit digital effects. The FX16ii offers 26 inputs, 16 direct outputs, four stereo returns and rotating connector pod. The EFX, is available in eight- and 12-channel versions, with one aux send and one FX send on each channel. The MFX provides two group busses, two aux sends, one FX send on each channel and two stereo input channels, in three frame sizes – eight, 12 and 20 inputs.
JBL Professional showed the upgraded VT4887A full range high directivity line array element and the accompanying VT4881A single 18-inch arrayable subwoofer. The VT4887A frequency range is 55 Hz-22 kHz (-10 dB).
AKG announced two wireless versions of the C5 condenser and D5 dynamic microphones. The microphones offer two interchangeable microphone heads for the HT 4000 handheld unit, as part of the WMS 4000 wireless system. The microphones feature an integrated shock absorber system for compensation of handling noise.
L-ACOUSTICS new KIVA full range element operates from 80 Hz to 20 kHz and provides 100 degrees symmetric coverage. KIVA features two 6.5-inch drivers in a bass-reflex tuned enclosure and a HF 1.5-inch diaphragm compression driver coupled to a DOSC waveguide.
Aviom introduced the 6416Y2 A-Net Interface Card at InfoComm 2007. The 6416Y2 interfaces between Yamaha consoles and mix engines and Aviom’s Pro16 personal monitor mixing system and provides inputs, outputs and control on a single card. The 6416Y2 card supports up to 16 channels in and 16 channels out simultaneously.
QSC’s new WideLine-8 line array system includes the full-range WL3082 and WL212-sw subwoofer. The WL3082, which measures less than 20 inches wide and nine inches high, has an operable range from 68 Hz - 20 kHz, and offers 140-degree horizontal coverage.
Califone’s PowerPro SD portable PA system includes a high-speed USB 2.0 port, a port for Secure Digital memory cards as well as 512 MB of available on-board memory. Other source options include two UHF 16-channel wireless microphone systems, variable speed cassette player/recorder, and a programmable CD player. It also includes two microphone inputs (each with volume control) and a set of stereo RCA jacks. Also included is a powered two-way loudspeaker with a 10-inch woofer (with 2-inch voice coil) and 4.25-inch cone driver (with 1-inch voice coil). The PowerPro SD operates on universal AC (110/220-volt) power, as well as DC power supplied by the onboard rechargeable battery, which holds up to 6 hours of charge.
The entire line of the beyerdynamic SHM 200 / SHM 800 and the MPC Series gooseneck and boundary microphones, have been redesigned to incorporate new electronic circuits that eliminate RF interference commonly generated by cellular phones and Blackberries.
Community’s new VERIS (VERsatile Installation Systems) comprise the VERIS6, a single 6” with an HF horn-driver combination in a compact enclosure, a dual 6”, a single 8”, and a dual 8,” also with attendant HF horn-drivers. The 12” and 15” VERIS models offer a choice of large-format horns including 90º x 60º and 60º x 40º for the two-way systems, and 90º x 40º and 60º x 40º for the three-way systems. Two subwoofers, a dual-10” and a dual-12”, are also available. All models are available in black or white.
First time exhibitors’ d&b demonstrated their Q-Series small format line array system and showed the larger J-Series alongside examples from the C-Series and E-Series conventional loudspeaker systems.
Meyer Sound announced the release of version 2.7 of MAPP Online Pro acoustical prediction software. Version 2.7 incorporates improvements to functionality, user interface, and speed, and adds data for the UPJunior ultracompact VariO loudspeaker and the Stella-4 loudspeaker for Constellation electroacoustic architecture. Meyer also showed their M’elodie ultracompact high-power curvilinear array loudspeaker and Galileo loudspeaker management system.
TOA Electronics, Inc announced the WM-5270 dynamic handheld wireless microphone. The WM-5270 operates in the 692 – 865 MHz band with up to 64 available frequencies and provides ten hours of transmitter operation from a single AA battery.
The Sygma Line from Renkus-Heinz integrates loudspeakers, amplifiers, processors and digital audio networks. Self-powered SG models can connect to RHAON, the new Renkus-Heinz Audio Operations Network (pronounced “rayon”), via each cabinet’s built-in PF Series Intelligent Digital Amplifier. The SGX Sygma models are designed for use with external amplifiers. RHAON is designed to provide control over all aspects of loudspeaker setup and digital audio distribution, and monitoring. It provides internal loudspeaker-specific DSP and digital audio distribution on standard Ethernet hardware – via a CAT-5 cable.
Martin Audio unveiled the LE2100, LE1500 and LE1200 stage monitors.
The LE2100 features twin, 12” (300mm) low frequency drivers, a 6.5in (165mm) midrange device and a 1” (25mm) exit compression driver. The LE1500 features a 15in (380mm) low frequency drive unit and a 1.4” (35mm) exit compression driver. The LE1200 features a 12” (300mm) low frequency drive unit and a 1.4” (35mm) exit compression driver mounted on a differential dispersion horn.
Electro-Voice showed the REV wireless system. REV-Link PC software enables remote monitoring, control and programming. Factory set channel groups allow up to 16 systems to operate simultaneously in one frequency band. Programmable in 25 kHz steps across 24 MHz operating bandwidth, there are over 950 possible channels. The RE97-2Tx is a two-ear hook design with a band behind the head. The band is fully adjustable and the hooks fold flat for storage and flip all the way over so the microphone boom can be on the left or right side of the mouth. It is available in three colors: beige, brown, and black.
Biamp introduced its autoTWO Automatic Mixer. AutoTWO includes eight balanced mic/line inputs with NOM attenuation, trim, pad and Level controls, as well as a combined active/peak indicator and an unbalanced direct out. Each channel includes a DIPswitch input for gating selection, 48V phantom power and direct out pre/post gate. In addition, the autoTWO features logic output control, adaptive threshold sensing, selectable last mic on, auto-mix and pre/post auto mix assignment. Main and auxiliary outputs are also included, with selectable high-pass filter on the main and the ability to assign the auxiliary for receiving pre/post gate signals.
FiberPlex, Inc., introduced its LightViper VIM-MY32 mini-YGDAI interface components to allow Yamaha digital audio production consoles to connect direct via fiber to the LightViper fiber optic audio “snake” system. The VIM-MY32 card modules (master & slave set) will handle 32 audio sends and 8 returns (24-bit/48 kHz digital audio). Adding an additional VIM-MY32 card set will allow the Yamaha PM5D to operate with 64 sends and 16 returns. Various combinations MY-32 cards can be used with Yamaha’s PM5D, M7CL, DM2000, DM1000, and LS9.
The DN-A7100 A/V Surround Preamplifier from Denon Professional is equipped with 7.1 unbalanced line inputs, 2 stereo balanced XLR inputs and 8 balanced XLR line outputs for use with multi-amped line array speaker systems or active monitoring systems. All XLR connections are +4 dB/-10 dB switchable. Four optical and two coaxial digital inputs are included. Additional HDMI 2-source video switching capability is included and employs integrated Convert to Component adaptability for transforming composite and/or S-video sources to component video.
SoundTube Entertainment announced the line of CM – EZ loudspeakers. Available in 4”, 6” and 8” sizes, all units feature a pressure fit grille with a tap switch located under the grille for easy access to power settings; power settings include 25, 70.7, 100 Watt and 8 Ohm.
Video: Bigger flat panels and a plethora of projectors that are easy to use and maintain.
Analog Way announced Easy Fade and Easy Cut, two new High Resolution Video Scalers and Audio Video Switchers. Both combine the functions of a High Resolution Video Scaler with an Audio Video Switcher and increase video image resolution and brightness. 3 Computer inputs are provided for direct display of presentations or Internet applications. They allow stereo audio switching and are fitted with user-friendly functionalities and powerful effects: Cut, Fade, Title (between Computer and Video sources) for the Easy Fade, Cut and Smooth Switching for the Easy Cut.
Hitachi America, Ltd., introduced the CP-X300 3LCD projector that features a brightness of 2,600 ANSI lumens and offers XGA (1024 x 768) resolution and a 4:3 aspect ratio. The CP-X300 also features two RGB inputs, MyScreen/MyMemory preset options, and a remote control with Hitachi’s “MyButtons” function and a low 29dB noise rating (in Whisper Mode), 1:1.2 manual zoom, and digital keystone correction. Additionally, the CP-X300 is equipped with a security bar, Kensington security slot and a sensor located inside the projector that recognizes when the projector has been moved.
Visix, Inc., announced the pre-release debut of its latest AxisTV platform, code-named Proteus. Proteus incorporates visual display improvements that include support for animated backgrounds, text and graphic elements; non-rectangular content areas, and support for touch-screen and interactive applications. A new theme library will offer backgrounds and icons, in variants with and without animations.
AMX disclosed new features for the next version of Resource Management Suite (RMS) –for managing and monitoring electronic equipment and scheduling meeting/class rooms. The company also announced six RMS Room Kits, which bundle AMX software and hardware. RMS 3.1 offers new scheduling options including the ability to schedule impromptu meetings. And additionally, control audio/video equipment and environmental elements or extend meeting room reservations on demand.
Barix showed their line of audio, and control and monitoring over IP products including Exstreamer 200 network audio decoder and Instreamer network audio converter.
Draper, Inc., announced new controls and motor options for motorized projection screens including network communication via RS232, dry contact, infrared remote control and other input devices to control the screen. The new motors allow remote control capabilities without the need to add on external pieces or adding to the length of the screen case.
Sony’s VPL-C series of LCD projectors includes six new models; the VPL-CW125, VPL-CX155, VPL-CX150, VPL-CX125, VPL-CX120, and VPL-CX100. The 3000-lumen VPL-CW125 model delivers WXGA resolution for a wide-screen source such as a WXGA PC or HD video with a 16:9 aspect ratio. The other models feature native XGA resolution (1024 x 768), and brightness levels from 2700 to 3500 lumens. The projectors accept a variety of inputs, including component and composite video, S-video (Y/C), and computer signals up to SXGA+. The VPL-CW125, VPL-CX155, and VPL-CX125 models add network capabilities.
The PLC-XF47 LCD projector from Sanyo is rated at 15,000 lumens and is one of the first projectors capable of transmitting non-compressed HD video wirelessly. The 6500 lumen PLCXP100L uses Sanyo’s Active Maintenance Filter System that automatically detects airflow and advances clean filter material as needed The PLC-XU101 and PLC-XU111 are rated at 4000 lumens with 1024 x 768 resolution.
Optoma introduced its latest data/multimedia projectors. The EP761 and EP763 projectors use Texas Instruments’ DLP chipset and BrilliantColor technology, while the EP774 features traditional white peaking. Connectivity options include DVI w/HDCP, VGA-in, Composite and S-Video to Audio-in, USB, RS-232 and +12-volt trigger connection ports. EP761 features 3100 lumens with a 2,000:1 contrast ratio. EP763 features 3600 lumens with a 2,000:1 contrast ratio. EP774 feature 4000 lumens with a 2,500:1 contrast ratio.
Sharp announced the introduction of the 6000 Lumen DLP .7-inch XGA 3 chip Professional Projector, model XG-P610X. Sharp also expanded its line of professional LCD monitors, with the introduction of the PN-G655U for landscape mode applications and the PN-G655RU for portrait mode applications – as well as a new 52-inch screen size (model PN-525U) designed for a variety of professional applications in both landscape and portrait. Also joining the professional LCD monitor lineup are the PN-G655UP, PN-G655RUP and PN-525UP with an integrated protective acrylic overlay for high traffic areas.
TV One’s CORIOflex provides flexibility in choosing the number and type of video inputs, outputs and features. One C2 video processor acts as a base unit and a variety of S2 Expansion units may be added to make a custom switcher/scaler known as a CORIOflex system. Inputs and outputs available with CORIOflex can include: RGB/YPbPr, YUV, Composite Video, S-Video, DVI or SDI. There are many combinations and ways to configure a CORIOflex system. A basic example would be to build a Seamless Switcher with 35 inputs of Composite Video, S-Video, RGB/YPbPr and DVI.
Focus Enhancements, Inc. announced the latest addition to the ProxSys family of Media Asset Management (MAM) solutions. The PX-1 is an entry-level, turnkey MAM system that integrates both hardware and software. The PX-1 allows the ability to assign timecode-based metadata to HD or SD video content which, when combined with its proxy preview, enables fast search and retrieval. Through the web browser interface, users can create projects and containers from which content can be copied, transferred, shared, or deleted. The PX-1 can manage up to 10 concurrent users connected anywhere in the world. It supports nearly all SD and HD video formats, popular graphic and audio formats, as well as many data formats, including PowerPoint and Word documents.
Crestron introduced its line of wideband CEN-RGBHV matrix switchers available in five configurations: 8x4, 8x8, 12x4, 12x8 and 16x16. Five matrix levels accommodate any combination of RGBHV, HD/component, S-Video and composite signals. Selectable sync impedance on every input helps accommodate varying cable lengths. Complete multimatrix setup can be configured easily using Crestron ToolBox software, or controlled real-time via SIMPL programming.
Panasonic Projector Systems Company introduced two single-chip DLP projectors, the new PT-D5700U projector and its widescreen sibling, the PT-DW5100U. The 6,000 lumens PT-D5700U and PT-DW5100U include 10-bit video processing for smoother tonal expression. For greater color depth and vividness, a 3D Color Management feature helps optimize color saturation, hue and brightness levels for approximately 1,070,000,000 colors. Each projector comes equipped with new circuitry for better processing high-definition (HD) images, reducing video noise, and improving image sharpness.
Digital Projection International (DPI announced three new products based on its TITAN Professional series: the TITAN SX+ 600, TITAN HD-600 and TITAN 1080p-600 dual 300-watt lamp systems and delivering 8,000 – 11,000 ANSI lumens. The units also benefit from DPI’s NextGen signal processing, which deliver de-interlacing, motion adaptive interpolation, HDCP compatibility and DP’s exclusive ColorMax 7-point colorimetry and Xenon Color Mode (SX+ and 1080p models).
Canon’s LV-7265, LV-7260 and LV-X7 Multimedia Projectors output XGA (1024 x 768) resolution imagery and also support UXGA (1600 x 1200) and SXGA (1280 x 1024) resolution display. The top-of-line LV-Series LV-7265 Multimedia Projector delivers 2500 ANSI lumens (the LV-7260 Multimedia Projector provides 2000 ANSI lumens, the LV-X7 Multimedia Projector 1500 ANSI lumens). The LV-7265 and LV-7260 Multimedia Projectors also feature a contrast ratio of 600:1 (with 500:1 provided by the LV-X7 Multimedia Projector). Canon also featured its REALiS line of LCOS (Liquid Crystal On Silicone) projectors.
Samsung Electronics America, Inc., introduced the SyncMaster DX series, line of 40”, 46”, 57” and 82” LCD displays designed for digital signage and information display applications. Features include a 3000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, ultra-high brightness levels (700 cd/m2 for the 400DX and 460DX, 600 cd/m2 for the 570DX) and 1920 x 1080 full HD resolution. The series of displays also incorporates a 178/178-degree viewing angle achieved via Samsung’s Super Patterned Vertical Alignment (S-PVA). Furthermore, the displays incorporate a 8ms (GTG) response time.
Toshiba’s Digital Products Division announced the TDP-TW355U DLP projector featuring 3,500 ANSI lumens, remote network management capabilities, integrated wireless1 functionality and security features. The projector also features a native 1024 x 768 XGA resolution and a razor sharp contrast ratio of 2000:1. The TDP-TW355U includes integrated IEEE 802.11g wireless functionality.
The new pro LCD HDTV lineup from Westinghouse Digital includes displays in the following sizes: 26”, 32”, 42”, 47” and 52”. All LCD HDTV’s include an RS-232C connection and a base of commercial software that is part of the management of the TV that can be customized by the project or application. The displays also come equipped with an installation menu that offers a remote password to access the installation menu, front panel, channel and OSD remote lockouts, start volume, start channel, volume maximize/minimize and Forced Power On features.
Extron Electronics can be relied on to introduce multiple new products at InfoComm. This year was no exception. The products debuted include the MTP U Series Universal Mini Twisted Pair Receivers. The receivers accept composite video, S-video, and VGA, along with audio or RS-232 signals, on a single CAT 5 type cable. The MTP U R A accepts video and audio signals. The MTP U R RS SEQ accepts video and bidirectional RS-232 control signals. The MTP U R RSA SEQ accepts video, audio, and bidirectional RS-232 control signals. Also introduced was the System INTEGRATOR SI 3, compact, full-range surface mount speaker. The SI 3 features a frequency response of 75 Hz to 18 kHz, and has a durable, high-impact housing that is also weather-resistant for use in outdoor environments. The SI 3 is available in a black or white finish.
