A joint venture partnership of AVIXA and CEDIA, the Integrated Systems Europe show (ISE 2023; www.iseurope.org) comes to the Fira Barcelona, Gran Via convention center in Barcelona, Spain from January 31 to February 3, 2023.
Essentially the European counterpart to InfoComm, ISE 2023 showcases the world’s leading technology innovators and solutions providers, and includes four days of conferences, events, exhibits and experiences. For more info, go to: www.iseurope.org.
To simplify navigation in the five halls, the exhibits are divided into seven categories: Content Production & Distribution; Digital Signage; Lighting & Staging; Multi-Technology; Residential & Smart Building; and Communications & Education Technology, but here we’ll focus on what REALLY counts — the AUDIO section, which is co-located with Lighting and Staging exhibits in Hall 7.
So listed here alphabetically are some (many more to come) of the new audio products unveiling at the ISE 2023 show. If you can’t make it, don’t worry — we will present all the audio highlights of ISE 2023 — both online at www.fohonline.com as well as in upcoming print issues of FRONT of HOUSE.
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ON WITH THE SHOW!
1 SOUND will launch of the Cannon C8, a full-range, hi-fi coaxial loudspeaker that completes its successful Cannon Series. The Cannons are unique point-sources offering extended low-frequency for their size. The new C8 utilizes an 8-inch driver with a coaxially mounted 1” silk dome high frequency element and has a 7-inch rear-facing passive radiator specifically tuned to extend bass frequencies, with a bandwidth of 55 Hz – 18 kHz and a max SPL of 120 dB. The speaker has two Speakon connectors and a 2-circuit switch, allowing for a choice of two mixes with a 4-wire cable. Elegantly finished, the C8 has an elegant finish and design. It’s 10 inches wide and tall and, like all 1 SOUND loudspeakers, is IP55 indoor/outdoor rated and saltwater resistant. The C8 is available in an install version as well as in custom colors and wood finishes. www.1-sound.com; ISE Booth 7H600
Adamson’s Fletcher Machine immersive audio rendering engine offers high-performance audio with ease of use in positioning up to 128 input and output sound objects in small or large venues, touring, museums and events. The 3U Stage Model has a 5″ color touch screen (for admin functions and quick checks) and a compact Traveler Model is also offered — both available with Dante or AVB/MADI interfaces. Mac/Win software provides full remote control of all parameters, or via a plug-in app using OSC (Open Sound Control) and MIDI integration. www.adamsonsystems.com; ISE Booth 7F200
B&C will display its compact sibling of the popular DCX464, the new 1.4” exit DCX354 coaxial ring radiator that covers 400 Hz – 6k Hz with 112.7 dB sensitivity. Its 3” midrange voice coil handles 180 watts, while the 100-watt 2-inch voice coil HF diaphragm covers 5 Hz – 20k Hz. A redesigned midrange integrator lets both diaphragms work in harmony for greater combined output and crossover flexibility. Also available: an ME464 80×60° point-source horn loading to 300 Hz, an ME148 line-array waveguide for use to 500 Hz and an FB354 passive crossover. www.bcspeakers.com; ISE Booth 3D200
Blaze Audio has expanded its PowerZone Connect Line of DSP multi-zone install amps. Designed for large commercial projects (malls, hotels, casinos, conference centers, etc.), new additions to the PowerZone Connect series include the PowerZone Connect 1002, 1502, 2004 and 3004. These offer 1,000 to 3,000 Watts in a 2 RU chassis. Users can leverage full system power and max channel count at Lo-Z (4 ohms) or employ half the channel count, but double the channel power for Hi-Z operation. Four-channel models can create hybrid (Lo-Z + Hi-Z) output setups from a single-amp, with sys config and control via Blaze Audio’s PowerZone Control browser-based web app. www.blaze-audio.com; ISE Booth 7J500
DiGiCo will show the Quantum338T, its latest theater-targeted console. With “in the box” mixing reducing outboard gear needs, a lightweight control surface and theater-specific software features, the Quantum338T is ideal for regional and touring productions. Besides its 128 input channels with 64 buses and a 24 x 24 matrix, the console offers theater sound designers and mixers an operating workflow with an enhanced cue system via DiGiCo’s Auto Update and cue data management tools, while character variations (often a result of costume and prop changes) are handled with the Alias function and cast changes are easily managed through its Players function. www.digico.biz; ISE Booth 7F300
DirectOut introduces HCONTROL.8, an 8-channel remote controller for its PRODIGY Series. Combined with PRODIGY.MP and globcon, the device turns DirectOut’s multifunction processor into a (mobile) mixing console. This solution enables a free and flexible mapping of audio channels and functions, such as FlexChannels, Matrix Mixers, and Snapshots distributed over 12 layers. With its 100mm faders, HCONTROL.8 is not only capable to control, but it also receives data from PRODIGY.MP displaying fader status and level meter information in a tailored and fully integrated way. Applications vary between fixed installations, where one PRODIGY.MP is controlled by several HCONTROL.8 throughout a conference set-up and remote productions, where several PRODIGY.MP in different locations are remotely controlled by only one HCONTROL.8. www.directout.eu; ISE Booth: 7F700
Eastern Acoustic Works will showcase its new KF210 2-Way 2 X 10” Line Array element, which offers a max SPL of 141dB, three-point rigging and built-in weather protection, weighs only only 60 pounds, making it ideal for small crews operating out of medium to large outdoor festivals, corporate events, houses of worship, performing arts centers or theaters. Featuring dual, symmetrically placed 10-inch woofers, 90 degrees of horizontal bandwidth and a 3” voice coil compression driver mounted to EAW’s patented Isophasic Waveguide, the KF210 can master challenging acoustic spaces with accurate pattern control. www.eaw.com; ISE Booth 7K140
Funktion-One debuts the Evo X, a full-range, three-way, completely horn-loaded loudspeaker that employs Funktion-One’s waveguide technology to provide 90° horizontal dispersion and high SPLs, making it an excellent choice for small-to-medium live venues, clubs and theaters. While Evo X’s horizontal dispersion delivers even coverage across a wide area, its focused 15° vertical dispersion ensures the sound is concentrated on the audience, to minimize reflections and room excitement. Featuring the same isophase diffraction HF waveguide technology as its Vero VX model, Evo X operates from 50 Hz-18 kHz, and combines well with Funktion-One F Series and BR Range bass speakers for increased LF punch. The wide bandwidth 8” midrange extends to 5k Hz, minimizing stress on the 1” HF driver, while the 15” mid bass comfortably handles 50 Hz-280 Hz. www.funktion-one.com; ISE Booth 7J600
Genelec’s new 4435A in-ceiling and 4436A pendant Smart IP loudspeakers support power, audio and management via a single CAT cable. Offering exceptional clarity, intelligibility and scalability, all Smart IP models are compatible with both Dante and AES67 streams, deriving power via PoE. Smart IP also comes with a range of software tools for configuration and management, and can be easily integrated with third party automation systems. www.genelec.com
HARMAN PRO’s HARMAN HiQnet Audio Architect v2.50.0 pro audio system design and configuration software presents a system design philosophy centered on operational workflow, and the use of a diagrammatic representation of the physical venue to automate many of the laborious design tasks, with system-wide networked audio routing and advanced tools for custom panel creation, configuring access control and many more. Control interfaces for control and monitoring of all manner of groups of devices are generated automatically. The “HiQnet Motion Control” Apple iOS app that lets users export customized control interfaces designed in Audio Architect to iOS devices for mobile system control of BSS Audio Soundweb London and DriveCore Install Series. A “Powered by Crown” app offers wireless control and monitoring of Crown Ethernet-enabled devices – including the DriveCore Install Series. https://audioarchitect.harmanpro.com/software; ISE Booth 3F450
HK Audio will present its new LINEAR 9, a highly flexible, powerful and smart speaker series, that will succeed its successful LINEAR 5 series. The LINEAR 9 series is a flexible answer to today’s demands in pro sound applications and a comprehensive solution that sets new standards when it comes to max sound pressure level, throw and scalability. Equipped with the latest DSP technology and a DSP Out, it can seamlessly integrate speakers without DSP into the system. With its robust cabinet designs, this flexible solution with smart features is ideal for the rough day-to-day life on the road. www.hkaudio.com; ISE Booth 7F400
K-array’s Lyzard Mk I loudspeakers combine premium audio in a sleek, miniaturized aluminum millwork body, Lyzards are designed for discreet use in intimate environments, such as retail, high-class restaurants, bars and museums. No bigger than a chocolate bar, this remarkable mid-high micro-loudspeaker series comprises the Lyzard-KZ1 I and Lyzard-KZ14 I — all designed for the best sound experience with minimal visual impact. A new magnetic snap on/off grill offers a pure, minimalist aesthetic and simplifies installation. For applications requiring invisible audio, the KZ1R I and KZ14R I versions are designed for flush mounting into walls and ceilings. A range of colors and luxurious metal finishes ensure that all Lyzard models blend seamlessly into any décor. Also new from K-array: a new model of the RAIL all-in-one sound and lighting solution from KSCAPE; and several new KGEAR products, including new GF column loudspeakers and the new GM44 analog audio matrix. www.k-array.com; ISE Booth 7F350
Kling & Freitag‘s new PIA LFX is a Low Frequency Extension speaker that matches the dimensions of K&F’s popular PIA M column but is equipped with six high-performance 4″ drivers to extend the frequency response of a PIA M column down to about 50 Hz. Additionally, the accessories of the PIA M also fit the PIA LFX, so that nothing stands in the way of wall or truss mounting. In installation applications, long mixed line-systems consisting PIA M and PIA LFX can also be built without any problems. One channel of a K&F system power amplifier is required to operate PIA LFX. Deliveries begin in mid-2023 and list price is 1,580 Euros. www.kling-freitag.com; ISE Booth #7E120
KV2 Audio will launch its ESR106 Slimline speaker and dedicated ESR2600D amplifier. Applications include theaters, houses of worship and concert halls where they are likely to be used vertically. When mounted horizontally, ESR Series systems provide coverage over a tiered seating area for stadium or grandstand type applications. Like its siblings, ESR212, ESR215MkII and ESR215S, the new Slimline ESR106 is an active-driven 3-way system. It deploys a unique column array of multiple 6-inch woofers for high quality vocal and music reproduction in challenging acoustical spaces and ambient environments. ESR106 is controlled and driven by its dedicated – and also brand new – ESR2600D amplifier, a two channel (stereo) three-way, active control and amplification system housing all signal processing and amplification in a 4RU module. www.kv2audio.com; ISE booth 7G550
L-Acoustics’ L-ISA Studio 2.5 software, for on-the-go immersive sound creator, is compatible with any PC and Windows OS, and Mac/macOS computers. The Windows version includes the L-ISA Controller and L-ISA Processor Desktop applications, as well as L-ISA Audio Bridge (a custom virtual Windows sound card with Bridge Out 12-output routing to any DAW for multi-channel recording. Also, Device Out can send audio to headphones or a multichannel sound card for rendering immersive speaker configurations in Atmos, BluSpace and more, with advance previewing in diverse spaces. www.l-acoustics.com; ISE Booth 7F240
LD Systems’ new DAVE G4X Series is a powered 2.1 P.A. that adds modern functions and features. Systems include the 680w DAVE 10 G4X (two dual-4” satellites and 10” sub); 1,460w DAVE 12 G4X (two 6.5” satellites and 12” sub); 2,060w DAVE 15 G4X (dual-8” satellites and 15” sub); and 4,000w DAVE 18 G4X two 8” satellites and 18” sub). All versions feature an integrated 6-channel mixer with Bluetooth connectivity, onboard FIR filters and DSP effects/processing. All DAVE G4X systems are shipping now. www.ld-systems.com; ISE Booth 7C850
Linea Research will show its new System Engineer 8 control and telemetry software platform. Redesigned from the ground up, System Engineer 8 provides software control over the M and C Series of networked DSP amplifiers and the ASC48 Advanced System Controllers. Taking a new workflow-oriented approach, System Engineer 8 divides into three main sections for easy navigation. Discovery and synchronization of connected devices is instantaneous, and the three workflow views, Setup, Presets, and Tune, simplify navigation making system configuration fast and intuitive. www.linea-research.co.uk; ISE Booth 7J100
Meyer Sound’s new 2100-LFC low-frequency control element features 8,000-watts of peak Class-D amplification in an enclosure that’s 20% lighter than the 1100-LFC, while offering 30 Hz to 125 Hz frequency response from its single 21-inch woofer with active driver and amplifier cooling. Preliminary specs include measurements of 42 inches (107 cm) wide, 24 inches (61 cm) high and 26.5 inches (67 cm) deep. The enclosure is premium multi-ply birch with a textured finish and a powder-coated stamped steel grill. www.meyersound.com; ISE Booth 5F100
Neutrik’s new XX series powerCON and speakON 2- and 4-pole cable connectors feature easier assembly, improved power handling and color-coding. SpeakON NL2’s are brown; NL4’s are green; PowerCON inputs are blue and outputs are gray. The PowerCON XX are now CBC (circuit breaking capacity) rated and IEC EN 60320-1 / UL 60320-1 / CSA C22.2 No. 60320-1 certified. New PowerCON and SpeakON variants are now offered for 6-12 mm or larger 10-16 mm OD cables. All are shipping now. www.neutrikgroup.com; ISE Booth 5E680
Pliant Technologies’ latest MicroCom XR firmware update adds a new Dual Listen feature. Dual Listen gives users the ability to listen to two intercom channels simultaneously. This provides the benefit of monitoring communications on both the A and B channels, while also allowing users to switch between talking on either channels A or B independently. In addition, this new feature is selectable on each pack in the system, giving the individual user a choice between Dual Listen and normal A or B channel communications. www.plianttechnologies.com; ISE Booth 7G850
RCF’s new ART 9-AX Loudspeaker line shares all the electro-acoustic features of RCF’s popular ART 9 Series, integrating a powerful Class-D amplifier, high-performance processing, and innovative transducers enclosed in a robust composite material cabinet. Available with 15” 12” or 10” woofers and a 1.75” HF compression driver, the AX Series is differentiated by including Bluetooth streaming/pairing, iOS and Android remote control and an onboard 6-channel digital mixer with a large color touch screen. www.rcf.it; ISE Booth 7J150
Sennheiser’s most versatile digital wireless system to date, the EW-DX dual-channel digital UHF wireless system offers an extensive feature set designed to simplify workflows while delivering superior audio quality. U.S. versions operate in the Q1-9 (470.2 – 550 MHz) and the R1-9 (520 to 607 MHz) bands. Features include a wide 87 MHz tuning range (with 3,480 available frequencies), intelligent switching diversity, auto-scan, an equidistant tuning grid, and a Link Density mode that allows for up to 293 channels on the same system. Systems are available in dual-bodypack, dual-handheld or combo handheld/bodypack versions. www.sennheiser.com; ISE Booth 3C600
Shure has joined D-Tools’ Industry & Insights (i3) Program. D-Tools is a trusted provider of business software that caters to the needs of system design and installation firms, with nearly 7,000 residential, commercial, security integrators and technology managers at universities, corporations, and government entities using its software solutions. The entire Shure product catalog is now officially available in the D-Tools Cloud and System Integrator software. Users can access up-to-date Shure product specifications and list price information through an extensive and integrated product library. www.shure.com; ISE Booth 3N250
Wisycom announces the new MTP61 miniature bodypack transmitter, the latest addition to its Symphony product line. The smallest and lightest multiband bodypack transmitter on the market, the MTP61 has the widest tuning range currently available (470 to 1260 MHz). Among the industry’s most powerful transmitters, the compact design of the MTP61 not only makes it comfortable, but also ideal for location sound and theater applications alike and a Bluetooth module allows users to adjust parameters in real time via mobile device apps. It also features an embedded recorder that stores directly on the internal 64 GB micro SD card and integrated Linear Time Code decoding. www.wisycom.com; ISE Booth 7G200
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For more info about ISE 2023, visit www.iseurope.org.
