March 2007 Issue

Acoustica announces the CD/DVD Label Maker Version 3.x that supports Light-Scribe Direct Disk Technology. This technology allows users to burn professional silkscreen labels on CDs and DVDs using the same laser that burns data in their disc drives. The unit can import track information directly from iTunes playlists or other file types, and can directly read track/file information from MP3 or data CDs and DVDs. The unit also supports direct-to-CD printing on more than 70 printers.

Gefen announces its DVI FM Extender that enables high-resolution computers and high-definition video sources to be viewed up to 200 feet from the source. A single, multi-mode fiber optic cable helps deliver crisp visuals in resolutions up to 1080p or 1,920x1,200. The DVI FM Extender offers plug-and-play capabilities, compact sender and receiver modules, Gefen DVI Detective connection, a DVI connector cable, and a power supply.

Hitachi America introduces the CPX505 3LCD projector that features a brightness of 3,500 ANSI lumens, 1.2x zoom and bayonet lenses, and four built-in four-watt speakers. The projector also includes Hitachi's proprietary PJMan network management software, a 1,000:1 contrast ratio, motion-adaptive progressive scan technology, 3:2 pull down, noise reduction, equalizing gama, and 3D Y/C separation. The CPX505 can be remotely controlled and monitored via a web browser.

Kramer Electronics launches the VM-28HDMI two-input 1:8 HDMI distribution amplifier for use in large networks. The VM-28HDMI allows the distribution of one of two HDMI input sources to eight destinations. The unit supports up to 1.65 Gbps bandwidth, and features EDID operation for a reliable connection to the source. It includes a 100-264 VAC universal switching power supply.

Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America introduces the lownoise XL550U projector with an XGA resolution of 1024x768 pixels. The XL550U uses three LCDs and provides 3,100 ANSI lumens with a side-loading lamp for quick replacement. The unit features long lamp life, with a purported 5,000 hours in low mode. The XL550U also delivers RJ45 connectivity for LAN asset management control, along with RS232c connection for integration with third-party control systems.

Panasonic Broadcast unveils the compact AV-HS300G SD/HD switcher for live event production. Using either SD or HD, the AV-HS300G is compatible with major worldwide formats. The one-piece unit design includes a 12-volt DC power supply and six inputs (five HD/SD SDI and one DVI-RGB). The AV-HS300G also offers three HD/SD SDI outputs, an Ethernet connection, HD analog component outputs, a tally output, RS-422 control, a 10-bit, sixchannel frame synchronizer, and nine wipe patterns. Suggested list price is $7,990.

Peerless Industries Inc. announces the HG Series universal flat panel wall mounts. The mounts help provide a clean-looking installation by extending the appearance of a flat panel all the way to the wall. Pivoting, articulating plasma and LCD wall mounts are included in the HG Series, and all mounts are designed with looks that complement flat panel screen finishes, including high-gloss piano black and high-gloss silver. The new mount series accommodates screens from 26 inches to 60 inches.

Ocean Optics introduces the SeaChanger Wash color engine, a CYMG hexachromic color changer that turns ETC Source Four ellipsoidals into dichroic wash lights. The unit features a four-filter CYMG color engine and a Fresnel lens barrel for attachment to any Source Four ellipsoidal. Manual zoom allows users to adjust the field of view from 20 to 70 degrees. The SeaChanger Wash is compatible with 575-watt or 750-watt HPL and HID lamps.

Leviton announces the DMXSM-H81 input merger. The DMXSM-H81 combines eight inputs into a single DMX512 output, employing a highest-level-takes-precedence operating order. All inputs are 100% optically isolated to provide protection of sensitive connected equipment. The input merger allows multiple control inputs to communicate with the same device and helps eliminate error-prone, multi-location DMX input wiring schemes. The unit can be combined with the DMXSM-H18 splitter/repeater to create an eight input/eight output DMX powerhouse.

Chauvet Lighting introduces the Q-Wash LED, a DMX-512 programmable moving yoke fitted with eighteen one-watt LEDs for low power consumption and heat emission. The Q-Wash LED offers remote reset and vector speed control, along with full dimming and automatic pan (540 degrees) and tilt correction (270 degrees). Users can program and store up to 100 steps for later recall without a controller. The less than 20-pound unit can draw from either a 120-volt or 230-volt power source.

Symetrix announces the dual-channel AirTools 6200 digital voice processor for professional podcasting. The unit features a microphone preamp, a de-esser, a compressor, a downward expander, equalizers, and voice symmetry. Additional capabilities include AGC, instant recall of 256 saved programs, dual, mono, or stereo configuration, and a purportedly easy-to-use computer software interface for network access, as well as fast, transparent program creation and tweaks. The AirTools 6200's analog predecessor is the Symetrix 528E.

Marantz Professional unveils the CDR310 professional CD recorder. The unit offers long-term recording in uncompressed and MP3 formats, as well as optional four-hour battery operation. The CDR310 features built-in microphone preamps with SLR connectors and 48-volt phantom power for use with external condenser microphones. The unit also includes a builtin mic and a CD burner that can create either audio discs for playback or data discs for archiving. AA battery and a RB1651 rechargeable battery are possible power options.

SLS Loudspeakers introduces the RLA/4 bi-amped line source array module. The compact RLA/4 features a high-frequency section with a PRD500 planar ribbon transducer. The planar ribbon, designed and made by SLS, allows precise acoustical coupling of the array for full utilization of cylindrical waves, according to the company. The low-frequency section uses two 6.5-in. drivers with a demodulation ring magnet system for less harmonic distortion and reduced inductance modulation. The system comes with free LASS prediction software for setup.

Presonus announces sonar support for its FaderPort, a single-fader controller that can write single and group channel volume, pan, and mute automation. The unit is loaded with an Alps fader that utilizes a dual-servo motorized drive-belt system to deliver fast, accurate operation. The FaderPort's 100 mm long-throw fader delivers 1,024-step resolution for writing ultra-fine fades and adjustments. MSRP is $229, and the unit is both Mac and Windows compatible.

Focusrite unveils the Saffire Pro 10 i/o Firewire interface that provides for expansion of computer-based recording solutions by enabling users to aggregate multiple units, all controlled via the same control platform. Housed with a 19-in. rack-mount case and detachable rack ears, the Saffire Pro 10 i/o combines eight channels of Focusrite pre-amplification with eight balanced line outputs and stereo SPDIF i/o. Saffire Pro 10 i/o pre-amps are derived from the Green Series, and the unit can be either bus-powered or powered via an external PSU.

Martin Audio introduces the high-performance WS218X sub-bass system designed to provide maximum bass impact and definition for theater sound systems, sound reinforcement, and special effects sub-bass applications. Designed for use with large-scale Wavefront and Blackline systems, the WS218X features twin 1,000-watt, 18-in. drivers capable of reproducing low frequencies down to 35 Hz. Housed in a birch ply cabinet with pocket handles, the system features high-temperature four-in. voice coils and produces a power output of 136 dB continuous and 142 dB peak.