After 70,000 votes, regional winners announced in NME's search for Britain's Best Small Venue, sponsored by AKG

NME's search to find Britain’s Best Small Venue is narrowing down, with the announcement of the regional winners. In the search, which is sponsored by AKG, 70,000 people voted via NME.COM to decide the favourite spit and sawdust sweatbox, and based on those votes the most beloved venues in each region of the UK have been announced.

The regional winners are:

South East: Tunbridge Wells Forum
South West: Bristol Thekla
Wales: Cardiff Clwb Ifor Bach
Midlands: Stoke Sugarmill
London: Camden Barfly
East Anglia: Norwich Arts Centre
North East: Leeds Brudenell Social Club
North West: Manchester Band On The Wall
Scotland: Glasgow King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut
Northern Ireland: Belfast Limelight

That list will now be pored over by a panel of music industry experts including former Undertones frontman and head of the UK Music organization, Feargal Sharkey, Festival Republic boss Melvin Benn, Radio 1 DJ Huw Stephens and Friendly Fires, who launched the campaign last month with an intimate hometown show.

The winning venue will get a complete set of stage microphones worth over £2,500 courtesy of AKG and their UK distributor Sound Technology Ltd, who are also on the judging panel. NME will speak to the winning venue about organizing a special celebration for later in the year. The winner will be announced on June 21.

Related Links

• http://www.nme.com
• http://www.soundtech.co.uk/akg/nme-small-venues

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Soundcraft Vi Series wireless monitoring software showcased at ABTT

Sound Technology Ltd, Harman Professional distributor in the UK/ROI, is showcasing Soundcraft and AKG's new VM2 software for all Vi Series digital consoles which delivers the world's first in-mixer monitoring of radio microphone systems at the ABTT show this week.

Now it’s possible for the first time to monitor the status of AKG DMS700 digital or WMS4000/4500 analogue radio mic systems directly from the Soundcraft Vi Series console surface. VM2 (Vistonics Microphone Monitoring) provides real-time visual displays of battery life, RF status, mic muting and internal clipping directly on a channel strip on the Vistonics™ screen, so it’s possible to see a problem long before you hear it, right there on the relevant channel – with expanded information instantly available just by touching the screen.

This technology, courtesy of Harman's HiQnet system communication protocol, has clear benefits for theatre audio and all live sound applications where efficient and failsafe monitoring of radio systems is essential.

Visit Sound Technology's stand at ABTT, Lawrence Hall 103, for a hands-on demonstration or contact Sound Technology Ltd on 01462 480000, www.soundtech.co.uk

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AKG announce winners of 2011 Scholarship of Sound

AKG, manufacturer of high performance audio products, today reveals the identities of the 10 winners of the second year of the AKG Scholarship of Sound. The quality of applications was exceptional, with over 1000 applications from 37 countries.

The 10 lucky winners of the AKG Scholarship of Sound 2011 are:

Dana Dramowicz, DJ, producer, and classically trained multi-instrumentalist, Poland

Diana Combo, sound practitioner developing an experimental approach to sound production and performance, Portugal

Diego Figari, mastering engineer, audio engineering student, record label owner, and music producer, Spain

Franziska Grohmann, singer, performer and electronica musician, Germany

Jean-Charles Zambo, talented remixer, producer and experienced music creator, France

Lauritz Munch, pianist and genre-defying electronic music producer, Denmark

Richard Eigner, engineer, composer, sound-artist, drummer and label manager, Austria

Richard O’Connor, music graduate, touring with his band, WhenWeAreKings, supporting Plan B, UK

Robin van der Jagt, music graduate and DJ with 10 years performing experience, Netherlands

Sam Hanlan, sound student with an incredible eye for detail in anything audio, UK

Each winner will be flown to Berlin for the event, from 30th July – 6th August, with flights, accommodation and living expenses covered entirely by AKG.

Sam Hanlan from the UK said “I cannot think of a better setting for the Scholarship than Berlin. I'm very familiar with the heritage and superb quality of AKG's microphones and headphones, and a chance to spend a week under the guidance of their engineers and product developers is an honour. An experience like this is so important to pursue as I wish to take every opportunity to improve my knowledge and understanding of my chosen field, meet like-minded students and experts and hopefully make a positive contribution.”

The AKG Scholarship of Sound will feature a week packed full of workshops and mentoring sessions on sound, covering music creation through to mastering and promotion. The experienced experts leading the sessions are as follows:

· Carl Craig - DJ, producer, Detroit legend and label manager

· Ewan Pearson - leading British electronic music producer, remixer, academic and lecturer

· Stefan Betke, aka Pole – mastering engineer and music producer

· Adam Marshall - DJ, electronic music producer and label manager

· Scott Monteith aka Deadbeat – DJ and electronic music producer

· Philip Sherburne - acclaimed music journalist, DJ, producer and writer

· Dominik Biba - AKG sound engineer and acoustic expert

· Schneiders Büro - the most renowned store internationally for synthesizers

· Rene Rennefeld - Sony BMG’s former A&R man, producer, entrepreneur, songwriter

· Daniel Schmuck - accomplished song writer, acclaimed vocal coach and musician

You can discover more details on the experts on www.scholarshipofsound.com

Students will also have the chance to sample the legendary Berlin night life, with opportunities to enjoy the city’s rich musical heritage included in the Scholarship.

For more information please visit www.akg.com/scholarshipofsound.

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AKG joins NME's search for Britain's Best Small Venue

AKG and their UK distributor Sound Technology Ltd have joined NME's search for Britain's Best Small Venue. Becoming part of a judging panel AKG and Sound Technology will also donate a complete set of stage microphones worth over £2500 to the winning venue.

With many of the UK’s sweatboxes under threat, NME are running a campaign to highlight the importance of small venues to bands and music scenes. We’re asking you to celebrate the tiny yet brilliant venues where legends are born and great bands are made even better by considering their plight and nominating the nation’s best via NME.COM/smallvenues.

NME's Campaign

We’ve spoken to bands, fans, promoters and venue owners from across the country, and the message is clear: while it’s obvious that the raw thrill of seeing live music is booming, it’s also evident that many of our best venues are facing a serious crisis.There’s no single reason why, but the last few years have seen an alarming number of these legendary toilet circuit venues close – from Brighton’s Freebutt (noise pollution) to The Charlotte in Leicester (to make way for student flats); The Point in Cardiff and Newport’s TJ’s (both due to financial constraints) to Aberdeen’s Warehouse (again thanks to adverse noise).

London’s 100 Club almost went, only to be saved in December after a grassroots campaign drew worldwide support from everyone from Mick Jagger to Liam Gallagher and saw it receive enough funding to survive a rent increase. But The Luminaire – a staple on the capital’s live circuit for much of the last decade – was less lucky, closing its doors for good in March. Ditto Camden’s Flowerpot (which relocated), Jilly’s Rockworld and The Music Box in Manchester, and many others. We’re launching this campaign now to help, but also because we want to celebrate these types of venues. They deserve it. They’re the places where Oasis got discovered, where The Libertines plied their trade for years before getting signed, where The White Stripes played their first UK gigs and where the next Arctic Monkeys are kicking their mardy bums into shape.

About AKG

AKG are world leaders in stage and studio microphones with a long and prestigious history. Legendary microphones such as the C 414 have been used on countless records and their range of live microphones used by leading artists and in venues up and down the country. The winning venue in the search will receive a complete set of stage microphones, capable of mic'ing an entire band, and worth over £2500.

Click here to download AKG's Professional Audio Catalogue

Vote for your favourite Small Venue here:

www.nme.com/smallvenues

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"This model takes some beating." Paul White reviews AKG Perception 120 USB in Sound On Sound

The latest edition of Sound On Sound (May 2011) contains a fantastic review of the AKG Perception 120 USB microphone. In fact, editor Paul White's conclusion reads:

"As a way of getting good quality vocals or other sounds into a laptop without needing to buy anything else, this model takes some beating."

The AKG Perception 120 USB uses 24-bit converters with 128 x oversampling rather than the 16-bit converters found on the vast majority of its rivals. Coupled with the AKG 2/3" capsule the Perception 120 USB delivers superb results. The review praises its "commendably low level of background noise" and its "clear, confident sound".

The AKG Perception 120 USB is plug and play on Windows 7, Windows XP, Windows Vista and Mac OS X. It is available now priced at £129 SRP inc VAT.

To read the full review please pick up the May 2011 issue of Sound On Sound, out now.

Further links:

• http://www.akg.com/site/products/powerslave,id,1162,pid,1162,nodeid,2,_language,EN.html

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AKG relaunches HSC and HSD headsets with automatic mute function

With a continued focus on improving the quality of performance in professional audio/video markets, AKG has unveiled the latest additions to its professional headset line at Prolight and Sound – the condenser microphone models HSC 171 and HSC 271 and dynamic microphone lines HSD 171 and HSD 271.

Ideal for broadcast engineers, sports and news commentators, voiceover and recording artists, the latest line meets the high demand for efficient and reliable equipment in the industry with seasoned AKG ingenuity.

“AKG HSC and HSD headsets incorporate features that have been directly requested by professional users, and offer excellent comfort, optimum ambient noise reduction and outstanding audio quality,” said Thomas Stubics, product marketing manager, recording and broadcast, AKG. “We’ve designed the HSC and HSD’s with comfort and usability in mind and each set will offer reliable service across the board.”

All four models use closed-back earpieces for high ambient noise attenuation and signal isolation. The HSC 271 and HSD 271 are circum-aural (full-size), and the HSC 171 and HSD 171 are supra-aural (on ear) designs. All have a detachable cable – if a cable becomes defective under the stress of day-to-day use, it can be quickly replaced without any tools.

Each headset has a flexible microphone arm that moves through a 270-degree arc and automatically mutes the mic as it is moved up, eliminating the need for a mute button. The HSC 271 and HSD 271 also feature automatic headphone muting. The microphone can be worn to the left or the right of the wearer’s mouth, and the microphone is shock mounted to attenuate mechanical noise and protect the capsule from damage.

All the headsets are compatible with a choice of optional cables and connector types, for use in the studio, broadcast booth or on the field, with consoles, computers, camcorders, intercoms or other devices.

The HSC 271, HSC 171, HSD 271 and HSD 171 all come with a windscreen and an additional pair of velvet ear pads.

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AKG introduce C 544 L head-worn microphone for sports / aerobic use

In an introduction that couples the company’s studio-proven audio performance with a rugged, comfortable and easy to use design, AKG is introducing the C 544 L head-worn microphone. The new microphone is ergonomically optimized with a behind-the-neck headband to provide maximum comfort and comes with an external shock mount for high mechanical-noise reduction and a flexible frequency response to ensure optimum audio and intelligibility even in the most noisy of environments.

The C 544 L head-worn microphone is designed for sporting applications like aerobics instruction and gymnastics trainers etc., amplified presentations or on stage vocal performance. The cheek pad allows it to stay in place even if the users head is turned abruptly, and the capsule shock mount reduces handling noise to a minimum. There is a new moisture shield that prevents perspiration from penetrating into the transducer as well as other additional design features that provide optimum protection from moisture and sweat. And the microphone comes with an optimized frequency response for speech and vocals, features that ensure the C 544 L carries on the AKG’s proven heritage of superior audio performance.

“The new C 544 L head-worn microphone from AKG is rugged, extremely easy to use, and offers outstanding price performance,” commented Thomas Umbauer, product marketing manager PPA, AKG. “It’s the perfect solution for anyone who is going to be in constant motion and in need of a flexible design and intelligible audio, and it’s extremely affordable, as well.”

Other features on the microphone include a mini XLR connector that allow the microphone to work with AKG’s efficient B 29 L battery operated power supply and a MPA III L external phantom power adapter. There is also a variant that conforms with AKG’s WMS bodypack transmitters, which employ AKG’s smart-battery power and re-chargeable technology for the most efficient use of energy available.

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AKG introduce WMS 40 MINI Wireless Microphone System

Following the success of the WMS 40 Pro series wireless microphone system, AKG proudly debuts its WMS 40 MINI at Prolight and Sound 2011. With vocal and instrumental systems sharing the same brilliant sound and ease of use qualities, WMS 40 MINI provides High Definition Audio Performance (HDAP) technology to ensure the best possible transmission and sound for users.

Providing the smallest and lightest pocket transmitter in its class, the AKG WMS 40 MINI can also be used with AKG miniature microphones, utilizing its robust mini XLR connector. The rugged, handheld HT40 MINI transmitter offers a reliable dynamic microphone capsule with cardioid polar pattern protected by an all metal microphone head shell and pop filter.

“AKG is on a constant mission to provide the most effective and reliable technology to the market and the WMS 40 mini is the latest piece of AKG ingenuity, providing audio professionals reliable equipment for an unbelievable price,” states Thomas Umbauer, product marketing manager PPA, AKG. “WMS 40 will be a great wireless microphone system for any on-stage performer.”

All transmitters in the WMS 40 MINI operate for 30 hours off a single AA battery; ensuring performers are constantly transmitting with little worry of running out of power during a performance. The output gain from the ¼” / 6.3mm jack output is variable through the volume gain control and the switched mode power supply is powered via 110-240V.

The WMS 40 MINI system will ship in the UK in May 2011 priced at £95 SRP ex VAT.

For more information please call AKG's UK/ROI distributor Sound Technology Ltd on 01462 480000 or visit www.soundtech.co.uk/akg

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Harman’s Soundcraft and AKG combine to make wireless mic monitoring in the mixer a first

Every engineer has been there. The radio mics check out fine on the RF Tech’s laptop, but that’s before the talent walks onto the stage. Reception black spots, drained batteries, accidental mutes – anything can happen once the show gets underway.

Thankfully, Soundcraft and AKG now make the FOH engineer’s life easier. Now it’s possible for the first time to monitor the status of any HiQnet-compatible AKG radio mic directly from the Soundcraft Vi Series console surface, courtesy of VM2 (Vistonics Microphone Monitoring). VM2 provides real-time visual displays of battery life, RF status, mic muting and internal clipping directly on a channel strip on the Vistonics™ screen, so it’s possible to see a problem long before you hear it, right there on the relevant channel – with expanded information instantly available just by touching the screen.

System configuration couldn’t be more straightforward, and uses Harman’s proprietary HiQnet network – simply plug in the mics, patch them to the related console channels, and you’re done. You can even identify the relevant mic receiver in the rack by pressing the Locate button, causing the receiver front panel display to flash.

It all adds up to much more efficient workflow and one less thing for the hard-pressed engineer to worry about.

VM2 will be available for all Soundcraft Vi Series consoles in V4.5 software, including Vi1, Vi2, Vi4 and Vi6.

Compatible AKG Wireless mic systems are WMS 4000, WMS 4500 and DMS 700 (optional HUB 4000Q HiQnet Ethernet interface required).

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AKG introduce WMS 470 Wireless Microphone System

Setting the stage for the next level in wireless live performance, AKG today introduces its WMS 470 wireless system at Musikmesse 2011. Designed for complete ease of use, WMS 470 incorporates a vast number of upgrades from previous AKG lines and delivers outstanding performance and reliable operation to users.

WMS 470’s new automatic frequency setup function immediately finds and displays all available channels, making the system ideal for less experienced users to operate. Before opening a channel, the pilot tone function will prevent unwanted startup noise – the receiver will only open the audio if the pilot tone is detected.

“AKG engineers have worked tirelessly to ensure WMS 470 is the best system for our customers,” said Wolfgang Fritz, product marketing manager – tour sound, AKG. “We completely understand the troubles live sound professionals face in the line of fire and with WMS 470, we help relieve these tensions with the most advanced technology that’s also simple to manage.”

WMS 470 operates up to 16 channels simultaneously within the same frequency band and up to 48 channels by using multiple frequency bands. The transmitters are powered using a single alkaline, lithium or Ni-MH rechargeable battery, providing up to 14 hours of use with lithium batteries. The WMS 470 handheld microphone has a built-in dipole antenna to ensure reliable transmission with 50 mW output power, even if the user covers the antenna with their hand.

“Our 400 Series has become one of the most successful wireless systems on the market and the WMS 470 continues that lineage,” continued Fritz. “With WMS 470, artists and engineers from live music, tour sound, house of worship, educational and corporate environments will have a reliable, yet robust technology at their fingertips.”

The WMS 470 is available in a variety of configurations for live music, instrumental, sports and presentation use including handheld, headworn and lavalier mic options. Packages include the WMS 470 D5 and C5 handheld sets, the WMS 470 Instrumental set, the WMS 470 Sports set and the WMS 470 Presentation set.

The WMS 470 wireless microphone system will be available April 2011 with pricing to be confirmed

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AKG launch DMS700 v2 flagship digital wireless system

Taking reliable professional audio transmission to the next level, AKG have launched the DMS700 V2 digital wireless microphone system. With a 512 Bit encryption, low 3.5 latency and the new DPT700 bodypack, DMS700 V2 offers artists and engineers absolute confidence in performance with a reliable, easy-to-use wireless component.

DMS 700 V2 improves the link quality and increases the working range of the transmitters and receivers to allow for more freedom in arranging anything from lecture halls in universities to houses of worship; live performances on tour to broadcast operations.

Users with the original DMS 700 wireless system can easily update their units through a software and hardware update. The free software update includes the 512 Bit encryption, AES EBU output and 0.5 ms improved latency, improved link quality and range improvements and output gain menu with a bargraph and ability to deactivate autolock. For approximately €299, the hardware upgrade ups the latency analog output by 1 ms, increases the DPT 700 microphone input gain 0, +10 and +20 dB and increases headphone output level 24 dB.

“HARMAN’s AKG DMS700 V2 is the next step in our pursuit of the perfect, flawless audio signal transmission,” stated Wolfgang Fritz, product marketing manager – tour sound, AKG. “V2 offers the audio professional ease of use, quick setup and reliable operation in this demanding industry, even in the most challenging environments.”

For more information please contact AKG's UK/ROI distributor Sound Technology Ltd on 01462 480000 or www.soundtech.co.uk/akg

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AKG WMS 450 wireless available now on Channel 38

Sound Technology Ltd is pleased to announce that AKG’s WMS 450 wireless range is now available in the UK on frequencies covering Channel 38.

More flexible than a simple plug-and-play system yet easy to set up and operate, WMS 450 allows cost-efficient, high-performance scalable multi-channel solutions.

Transmitter options include the HT 450 handheld, with a choice of AKG’s D 5 dynamic or C 5 condenser capsules or the PT 450 pocket transmitter, with C 555 L headworn microphone, C 407 L lavalier microphone, or MKG L instrument cable.

Both transmitters have an LCD display which indicates all important system data at a glance, including the selected frequency, available battery time, low battery warning and the current transmission mode. Up to 8 hours operation is possible from a single AA battery. Charging contact allow the transmitters to be used with the optional CU 400 charging unit.

The true-diversity SR 450 transmitter features Auto Setup mode, where the receiver will scan the available bands, find an interference-free channel, and transmit the related frequency data to the assigned transmitter via infrared. This function significantly reduces the time it takes to set up a multichannel system. A Rehearsal function is provided for identifying RF dead-spots.

The back-lit display clearly indicates all important system parameters, warning the user of critical conditions from a distance including audio clipping, RF and battery status.

WMS 450 is compatible with AKG’s range of antennas, antenna splitters and power supplies.

Channel 38 (606-614 MHz) is the dedicated replacement for channel 69 (854-862 MHz) and, along with frequencies in channels 39 and 40, is currently available on a shared licence basis for PMSE (programme-making and special events) use across the UK. Channel 69 will not be available for PMSE use after 2012.

The AKG WMS 450 is available now priced from £450 RRP ex VAT.

For more information please visit www.akg.com and www.soundtech.co.uk/akg or contact Sound Technology Ltd on 01462 480000

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AKG C 414 XLII in Audio Media Microphone Sampler

The latest version of the legendary AKG C 414 condenser microphone leads Audio Meda magzine's microphone product sampler in the March 2011 edition.

"AKG's C 414 XLII has the same sonic signature as the company's C12 microphone, helping to place lead vocals and solo instruments in a dense mix. The up-front sound can also be useful for distant miking applications such as drum ambience miking. The XLII offers nine pickup patterns and comes complete with essential accessories."

To read the full article please pick up the March 2011 issue of Audio Media. www.audiomedia.com

For more AKG C 414 information please click here.

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AKG Perception Wireless shipping

AKG and UK distributor Sound Technology Ltd. are pleased to announce the shipping of Perception Wireless in the UK. The new wireless microphone system comes complete with bandwidths up to 30 MHz and exceptionally low-current transmitters, which are unique in its class, cementing Perception Wireless as one of the most comprehensive systems in its price range.

The Perception Wireless is designed to accommodate musicians and entry-level audio technicians, although it has the capabilities to handle even the most difficult audio setups with up to 8 channels per band. The Perception Wireless series consists of a Vocal Set, with the handheld transmitter HT 45 featuring a dynamic cardioid capsule; the Instrumental Set, which comes with the pocket transmitter PT 45 plus instrument cable; the Sports Set with the pocket transmitter as well as a C 544 head-worn microphone; and a presenter set, complete with the PT 45 and a CK 99 L lavalier microphone.

The pocket transmitter PT 45 – which is the smallest in its class – runs on a single AA battery (included), and is compatible with all AKG MicroMics. The HT 45 Handheld Transmitter, also running on a single AA battery, gives users the ability to adjust the microphone level from high to low gain and comes with a capsule from the popular Perception Live series.

All models include the SR 45 diversity receiver. The SR 45 has balanced XLR and unbalanced 1/4" jack outputs for connecting to a wide range of equipment and features adjustable output level and squelch controls. Front panel indicators are provided for channel, RF status and audio level clipping.

Perception Wireless is available on both licence-free ISM (channel 70) and future-proof channel 38 frequencies. Recommended Retail Prices start at £165 + VAT and are available now.

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AKG announce Scholarship of Sound 2011

AKG is offering talented electronic music producers and students from across Europe the unique chance to take part in the AKG Scholarship of Sound. The AKG Scholarship Of Sound provides a life changing opportunity for participants to develop a greater understanding of sound, music production and audio engineering under the guidance of highly respected artists, music producers and music professionals.

AKG, the manufacturer of high performance studio, broadcast and live sound equipment, has set-up the Scholarship of Sound to support talented young European artists and students by sharing the knowledge of industry pioneers and innovators and drawing inspiration from one of Europe’s most culturally diverse cities.

The search for candidates is now open: students and producers are invited to submit their applications.

The deadline for applications closes on 30th April 2011, after which the applicants will be judged by an industry panel. The winning scholars will be announced in May with the scholarship, flights, accommodation and living expenses covered by AKG.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=re_HWxN5CGE&feature=player_embedded

The lucky winners will take part in the scholarship from July 30th - August 6th at the Berlin AKG Studio. The students will enjoy audio workshops and mentoring sessions led by some of electronic music’s leading artists and professionals, alongside the discovery of Berlin’s most influential musical spaces.

Find out more and submit your application at http://www.scholarshipofsound.com/

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Pro-AV Cambridge makes major investment in JBL VRX line array and AKG DMS-700 digital wireless mics for large-scale conference sound applications

Sound Technology Ltd, the Harman Pro distributor in the UK and ROI, are pleased to announce the purchase and deployment of a JBL VRX line array PA system and 60 channel AKG digital wireless system for major conference sound applications by Cambridge-based Professional Audio-Visual (Cambridge) Ltd (Pro-Av).

The company has come a long way since being set up by Paul Kent in 1995, having developed into an operation turning over £1 million per annum in equipment hire and technical services.

Along the way the company moved to new headquarters on a one-acre site near Stansted Airport, from where it services corporate conferences and awards presentations throughout the world, backed up by a cutting-edge inventory of sound systems, stage sets, staging, cameras, lighting and computer based presentations.

The company has now further augmented this with the acquisitions of a new JBL VRX Line Array sound rig and 60 channels of AKG’s DMS 700 flagship digital wireless system as part of a major investment in staging services.

The company chose their acquisitions carefully before placing their first order for the Harman Pro equipment through reseller CoNi.

The JBL line array system, comprising eight VRX 932LAP 12" 2-way systems and four 18” VRX918SP 18in sub bass, was chosen after testing several alternatives. Many rigs were unsuitable as being “too rock and roll”, believes Paul Kent. “However, the JBL system hit the spot, as it is easy to set up and produces an ideal conference sound, for high sound pressure levels needed at awards and larger scale events. On top of that, the quality and finish of the units is exceptional.”

He also liked the fact that the VRX system is powered by Crown amplification — mindful of the outstanding reputation the brand has enjoyed for build quality and reliability dating back to the 1970’s.

Pro-Av also purchased eight of the new JBL PRX 600 powered speakers to supplement the VRX system — which will be used for conventional sound reinforcement at smaller events. “These units have incredible build quality and are also powered by Crown,” appraises Kent.

Pro-Av were also delighted with the debut of their new AKG DMS700 digital wireless system, the flagship of AKG’s range and already capable of operating on the future-proof Channel 38. “As one of the first companies to offer digital microphone systems, this gives the ability to run up to 100 systems at a time, in close proximity.”

The new kit was debuted in January on the island of Tenerife, for an international sales conference attended by over 1000 people, hosted by a major pharmaceutical company.

Pro-Av equipped the main Magma conference venue with all equipment and technical back up for an outstanding event, at the same time providing additional audio-visual support to a further 82 conference rooms spread across six other hotels on the Island — which was some logistical feat.

“We have invested in people, infrastructure and up to date equipment technology to the tune of some £600,000 over the last four years,” says Pro-Av’s MD. “We are poised to increase market share this year, with many new contracts already in the diary.”

For more information or to arrange a demo of either JBL VRX or AKG DMS700 please contact Sound Technology Ltd on 01462 480000.

Related Links:

• JBL VRX900 Series Product Info
  
• AKG DMS700 Digital Wireless Product Info
• Sound Technology Ltd, Harman Pro distributor in the UK and ROI
  
• Pro-AV Cambridge

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AKG Wireless iPhone App 2.0 adds control functionality

Following the successful launch of its first iPhone application in 2010, AKG is introducing the AKG Wireless App 2.0 at Winter NAMM, now available via free download in the Apple iTunes store. With a host of new features and an updated interface, users will not only be able to monitor and configure their AKG wireless systems through an iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad, but will also have the opportunity to control multiple settings from system design, to soundcheck and during performances, all through Harman’s HiQnetTM protocol and a Wi-Fi connection.

Supporting the Apple iPhone 4 retina display, version 2.0 offers advanced control functionality, allowing users to manage and change their wireless system parameters, including the name of the setup and frequency signals. The newly adopted ALERT system automatically issues a warning if there is a low microphone battery or an antenna malfunction. The app also suggests possible solutions for solving signal issues.

“We have reached a completely new level of hands-on sound engineering with the AKG Wireless application 2.0,” stated Philipp Sonnleitner, product manager for HiQnet and system integration. “With the next generation of AKG’s smart phone-based technology, we are offering an intricate free service to our dedicated users, without extra expense or stress during the already demanding environment of a live sound event. Version 2.0 is easy to use, but will have a dramatic affect on the industry, improving sound quality for audio professionals and musicians.”

Adding to the capabilities of the AKG 1.0 app, 2.0 revamps the wireless system and radio frequency connection monitoring capabilities, compatible with the AKG wireless mics, including the DMS 700, WMS 4000/4500 and IVM 4 in-ear monitoring system. With a Wi-Fi connection, users are connected to the AKG HUB 4000 Q, which can be used side-by-side with HiQnet System ArchitectTM as the entire system is based on the advanced HiQnet protocol.

The AKG Wireless iPhone App 2.0 also comes with a new, stylish interface as well as a more advanced, reliable and easy-to-navigate information database.

For more information on AKG and the iPhone Wireless App 2.0 and a link to the Apple iTunes store, please visit http://www.akg.com/iphone.

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AKG iPad App opens Perception product line to interactive demonstrations

Building on the success of its highly acclaimed Perception series, AKG is introducing its first application exclusively for the Apple iPad. The AKG Perception iPad App is the ultimate guide for all musicians, producers and engineers interested in the technical prowess that is AKG Perception, which includes a full range of headphones and microphones for live stage and studio, as well as wireless microphone applications.

Fully integrated with Facebook and Twitter, the iPad application offers a comprehensive and interactive guide for musicians, performers and producers, answering all questions concerning the Perception line. A visual tour through the entire line provides detailed descriptions and specifications, including a function to match the optimal audio equipment for any live sound or recording setting.

A thorough magazine-style database showcases the entire range of AKG Perception, with complete information on product descriptions, applications and accessories, with high-resolution photos. A history of AKG and new and old products are available, ranging from the start of the company in 1947 to the present in 360-degree visuals.

“AKG’s launch of the Perception iPad App goes hand-in-hand with our commitment to provide the most effective solutions to the ever-evolving demands of the industry,” stated Alfred Reinprecht, Marketing Manager, AKG. “Perception continues to lead in recording and on-stage presence and we hope to offer our dedicated users an opportunity to understand the equipment and provide their own customers with an even greater audio experience.”

Users can copy and paste any section of the application to their Facebook or Twitter accounts or e-mail a section directly from the Perception app. Video demonstrations featuring the Perception series in use on stage, in the studio and how to properly care for the line are all available via the application.

The AKG iPad Perception App is available free now at the Apple iTunes Store.

For more information, please visit http://www.akg.com.

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AKG launches Groove Pack Drum Mic Set

Combining the dynamic sound quality of the popular P2 and P4 Microphones with a rugged P 17 Condenser microphone, three mounting clamps and two stand adapters, AKG’s comprehensive Drumset GROOVE PACK offers drummers and percussionists an all-inclusive solution for live and recorded sound. The Drumset GROOVE PACK comes in an all-metal carrying case with six total microphones for bass, drum and overhead positioning.

The two overhead P 17 condenser cardiod microphones with the Drumset GROOVE PACK offer a level of precision that is normally found in a higher cost, small-diaphragm condenser. With an all-metal construction and a switchable 20 dB attenuation pad, the P 17 is a ½ - inch small diaphragm instrumental microphone, perfectly suited for overhead positioning.

“The Drumset GROOVE PACK offers percussionists the most comprehensive set of extremely rugged, highly versatile microphones,” said Thomas Umbauer, Product Manager for the Drumset GROOVE PACK. “They are the perfect solution for any drummer or percussionist looking for powerful, dynamic sound quality.”

Also included in the package are the P2 bass and P4 drum microphones from AKG’s Perception Live series. The P2 is a dynamic mic designed to provide low-frequency instruments with a powerful sound and a wide, dynamic range, while the P4 is designed to handle the highest sound pressure levels with a response specifically tailored for neutral reproduction of instrument sounds. Both of the mics come with a rugged, all-metal body to withstand the typical tough stage use, an intergraded stand adapter and external bracket, and a hum compensation coil that rejects EMC noises.

In addition to the microphones, the Drumset GROOVE PACK includes three H440 mounting clamps and two SA60 stand adapters, packaged together in a highly resistant metal carrying case.

AKG Groove Pack is expected to ship in February 2011 with pricing to be confirmed.

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Trey Songz Opens Usher’s OMG Tour With AKG Microphones

Following his fourth studio album release in September, R&B sensation Trey Songz has teamed up with Usher for the international OMG Tour, utilizing AKG microphones for lead vocals and his band’s lead guitar and percussion. With a 40-minute set each of the 58 nights of the tour, Songz’s relies on top-quality technology to deliver memorable performances to hundreds of thousands of fans in the world’s most famous venues.

Trey Songz’s performances are highlighted with an AKG D 7 mic with a D 7 Reference Dynamic Capsule for lead vocals. The lead guitarist is heard through an AKG C 214, while the drummer snaps C 519’s to his set. The mic system is networked through the AKG WMS 4500 Wireless System.

“The AKG line sounds great and are some of the best vocal mics I’ve heard in the industry,” stated Bryon “Hot Dog” Tate, front of house engineer for Trey Songz. “The wireless vocal D 7 is extremely responsive in the mid range and the 214 give us a more compact and easy-to-use piece for the guitar.”

Utilizing the WMS 4500 with the AKG microphones gives Tate multiple features that are essential to the success of a live show. With an easy-to-access-and-view monitoring system, auto frequency synchronization, environment scans and pilot tone status data transmission, ensuring the vocals and instrumentation are completely in-line during the performance is a much simpler task for Tate.

“I’ve had a long-standing relationship with AKG through many well-known artists and the mics continue to exceed my expectations,” continued Tate.

Related Links

• www.akg.com
• www.treysongz.com

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