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A music-lover's dream or perhaps a rock and roll circus spiraling out of control? Where else can one witness leather-clad enthusiasts, celebrities from the world of rock, pop, and jazz, along with the newest music technology in a single location? Regardless of your chosen descriptor, the annual Winter NAMM show, held in Anaheim, California each January, serves as a staging ground for this melting pot of culture and technology to unfold. A place where manufacturers, retailers, and aficionados come to both revel in the latest offerings while brokering deals for consumer product sales.
Garnering over 100,000 in attendance, the 2016 NAMM show, which took place January 21-24, was one of the largest in history. The impressive display floors, occupying over 800,000 square-feet, were filled with manufacturers representing almost every facet of the music industry. Although musical instruments harbor the strongest presence, rich with signature artist models, demonstrations, and showcase concerts, the show also offers a strong compliment of pro audio, lighting, and media manufacturers.
While the sheer size and scope of the show proves difficult in seeing every product, the Church Production staff was on hand attending press conferences, product showcases, and other presentations in hopes of capturing the best releases for 2016. With solutions that reach the novice, professional, and every user in between, the NAMM show remains one of the premier events offering relevant technology for the house-of-worship market.
Of the thousands of new products released at NAMM, we've selected these five products from the show that are sure to become staples for any church. Each of these products offers an impressive feature set, user-friendliness, and an affordable price point that will make them ideal for the church market. So without further adieu, here is Church Production Magazine's “Top 5 Products for Churches from Winter NAMM 2016.”
AKG MicroLite Series Microphones
The new MicroLite series of miniature wearable reference microphones offer high sound quality and durability in a tiny and discrete package. This series is ideal for broadcast, film, performing arts, church, and conference environments. Including lavalier, ear-hook, and head-worn options, all models in the MicroLite series offer comfort, flexibility, and high levels of moisture protection.
The LC81 MD, AKG says, is one of the smallest cardioid lavalier microphones available. It features a diameter of 4.8mm, a length of 10mm, and a weight of 2g. The cardioid pattern picks up a wide range of frequencies and provides flexibility for hidden placement. It comes available in four colors.
A similar model, the LC82 MD, is an omni-directional lavalier microphone and has a diameter of 3 mm and a length of 6.5 mm. Ideal for musicals, theater, churches, broadcast and large-format presentations, the LC82 MD also protects against moisture and makeup. Like the LC81 MD, the LC82 MD is available in four colors.
For further wireless compatibility, the EC81 MD and EC82 MD microphones offer a flexible ear-hook and adjustable boom length for comfort, while users can choose between a cardioid (EC81 MD) or omnidirectional (EC82 MD) model. The EC82 MD also features a highly moisture-resistant design. Both microphones are available in two colors.
Those seeking a more stable fit, the HC81 MD and HC82 MC headworn models deliver options in both cardioid and omni-directional formats respectively. Featuring flexible ear-hooks and an adjustable boom for comfort and placement, each microphone is available in two colors and the HC82 MC features a moisture-resistant design.
All MicroLite models include an extension cable with a Microdot connector, which is compatible with a variety of different adaptors, as well as all major manufacturers of wireless microphone systems.
Audio-Technica E-Series In-Ear Headphones
Audio-Technica's new E-Series of in-ear headphones, comprised of three different models, provides a broad selection for today's professional musician. Sonically shaped after the company's popular M-Series headphones, but in an in-ear design format, the new line offers increased accuracy, comfort, and isolation for various applications.
Available models include the ATH-E70, which features three balanced armature drivers and high extended frequency response. With a powerful single balanced armature driver, the ATH-E50 model is touted as having a more consistent reference across sonic environments, making it suitable for producers and those seeking a flat response. The ATH-E40 features dual phase push-pull drivers providing powerful bass along with balanced mid and high frequencies.
All models feature flexible over-ear memory cable loops providing a custom fit and comfort as well as a detachable cable, offering easy replacement and durability. They each ship with a carrying case and removable silicone ear tips, with the ATH-E70 model shipping with Comply foam tips as well.
Shipping in March 2016, retail prices are as follows: ATH-E70 $399, ATH-E50 $199, ATH-E40 $99.
HK Audio Lucas Nano 608i PA System
The Lucas Nano 608i, from German-based manufacturer HK Audio, brings a feature-rich and intuitive compact PA system to the portable market. This powered system combines a 10-inch subwoofer along with two satellite speakers that come loaded with a 4.5-inch woofer and one-inch tweeter. Featuring an integrated eight-channel mixer, users can operate key functions directly on the 608i subwoofer itself using conventional knobs. The system shines though when put to used with the integrated iPad app. The app allows for use in either an ‘Easy Mode' or a more sophisticated ‘Expert Mode', which opens up an extensive list of options such as fully parametric EQ, compressors, and reverb programs. Its Bluetooth streaming function offers an additional feature for mobile applications, DJs, and remote situations.
Weighing in at only 35 lbs, the compact design allows for the system to be deployed in a number of ways including a single mono column or classic stereo setup. With a transport bay inside the subwoofer for both satellite speakers, along with several options for setup and use, this new system will be a popular choice for solo musicians, small ensembles, churches, and other entertainment functions. Portability, quick setup, high fidelity, and volunteer-friendly are words that speak volumes for any product. With that, the Lucas Nano 608i brings a compact yet highly robust option to musicians requiring a high level of sound quality and mixing features but with the flexibility for changing environments.
Mackie Axis Digital Mixing System
The new new Axis system from Mackie features a combination of the new DC16 control surface and DL32R digital stage box designed to deliver a scalable system with all the benefits of digital along with wireless mixing capabilities in an integrated system.
Featuring 32 remote-controllable Onyx+ mic preamps and 16 outputs, along with built-in DSP, the new system is designed for medium to large channel count applications. It uses the Dante protocol for communication between the DC16 and DL32R, enabling additional networking capability and expansion. Visual feedback is provided by large, full-color channel displays and the ability to dock up to three iPads in the SmartBridge, which senses when your iPad is in place. This allows easy customization over each iPad view depending on the user's workflow preferences.
Mackie says the DC16 surface delivers innovative features rarely seen at this price point. Every control and channel is accessible with just one button and navigation has been simplified with the use of group and mix selectors, bringing the visual feedback element to the forefront.
Along with the capability for multi-track recording and integration with the iOS operating system, the Mackie AXIS digital mixing system presents a scalable solution for live production, houses of worship, and installed systems.
Shure KSM8 Dualdyne Vocal Microphone
Shure describes the new KSM8 as the world's first dual-diaphragm, hand-held microphone. Designed for live sound performance, the KSM8 eliminates any sign of proximity effect while offering a high level of off-axis rejection with its cardioid pattern. The reproduction accuracy eliminates the need for low end roll-off or unwanted presence peaks while giving a large sweet spot for various mic techniques.
With two ultra-thin diaphragms–one active and one passive– the microphone features an inverted airflow system and pneumatic shock mount, reducing unwanted handling noise without loss of low end response. The KSM8 is offered in a brushed nickel or black finish. It is also available as a handheld transmitter and interchangeable capsule option with many of Shure's wireless systems.
Designed from the ground up over a seven year period, the KSM8 will prove to be popular with touring, broadcast, house of worship, and other live sound engineers and vocalists. The retail price for the KSM8 starts at $499 and is available immediately.
