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  • Powersoft bolsters global team with five new hires

    Powersoft bolsters global team with five new hires

    Powersoft, an Italian audio company since 1995, specializes in high-end patented technologies for professional audio applications, with over 100 countries and authorized distributors.

    Powersoft has expanded its global team by appointing two new business development managers and three new solution engineers. These new hires will help strengthen relationships with clients, partners, and stakeholders worldwide. Each new team member has a specific regional focus and brings extensive industry experience to their roles.

    The expansion aligns with Powersoft’s commitment to enhancing user experience, raising brand awareness, and driving growth in key markets such as China, Southeast Asia, the UK, and the US. By bringing in experienced professionals, Powersoft aims to improve customer support, product knowledge, and market presence, ultimately fostering more business opportunities and success for their partners.

    Powersoft today announces the expansion of its global team with the appointment of two new business development managers and three new solution engineers. This growth is in line with Powersoft’s commitment to strengthen and build relationships with its potential clients, partners, and stakeholders on a worldwide basis.

    With over 20 years of industry experience, Jonathan Wu, newly appointed business development manager for China, possesses a deep understanding of the pro-audio market. He aims to enhance user experience and product knowledge for Chinese clients, as well as continue to raise Powersoft’s brand awareness in China.

    In his new role, Jonathan Wu will be focusing on nurturing relationships with potential clients, partners, and stakeholders. “I have long maintained deep long-term cooperative relationships with design consulting companies, experts, and industry associates. This, combined with my experience working for a world-renowned audio company will help me create more business opportunities and generate growth for our partners,” he says.

    Jinfu Chen, business development manager for the Southeast Asian market, will focus on Indonesia, Thailand, The Philippines and Vietnam ensuring growth objectives by creating direct relationships with key integrators and consultants and utilising regular meetings and training sessions within the distribution network. Chen has an extensive background in the industry, having previously worked with Yamaha Commercial Audio and Audio-Technica, as well as a freelance sound engineer.

    “My vision for the Southeast Asian market will be to ensure Powersoft is the first choice for consultants, integrators, and rental companies for their projects,” he says. “Even though the market is improving after COVID, with the increase in commercial audio projects, such as hotels and theme parks, it is complicated by nature with multiple languages and cultures.” Chen sees this as an opportunity for Powersoft to gain more market share, as the market is willing to spend for higher quality, assurance, and dependability, “especially for mission critical projects.”

    As a new solution engineer for the Chinese market, Michael Wu is excited to start his new role, stating: “When I first started in the pro-audio field in 2006, the market was predominantly occupied by analogue amplifiers, I believed then that Powersoft represented the future direction for power amplifier development and to date, Powersoft has become a leading brand in China’s high-end power amplifier market.”

    Michael Wu’s plan is to collaborate with Powersoft’s partner EZPro Intl order to promote the application of innovative products in the Chinese market and explore their potential within specific market segments. This includes training, promotion, and technical support. He aims to fully reflect on the technical capabilities of Powersoft and pass on these features to the company’s customers while introducing them to solutions, so that Powersoft can become synonymous with high-end projects in China.

    In the UK, new solution engineer Tom Bland will be helping the sales team by offering training, demos, and technical help, as well as being directly available to Powersoft’s users and specifiers to help them better understand Powersoft’s offerings and providing them with support on how to get the right tool for the job.

    Bland – who has been around the pro-AV world since he was born and started his first role in the  education and application support team at d&b audiotechnik GB after graduating university – is eager to start his role by introducing himself to the UK market, and says plans to work closely with Powersoft’s sales team and UK distributor, CUK, to ensure he’s in the right place at the right time, offering assistance to the end-users, integrators and consultants alike. “I’m most looking forward to getting stuck in, meeting with new people and old friends, and helping the UK market develop solutions for their needs,” he says.

    Joe Byrne, whose industry experience includes more than 30 years in AV integration, live production, and manufacturing, joins the Powersoft US team as solution engineer. He strongly believes that his background in the industry gives him a “unique insight” into the challenges Powersoft customers face in their day-to-day business and says he is delighted to join the team, stating: “I’ve always known Powersoft to be a leader in amplifier technology and development as well as producing some of the most reliable hardware in the industry. I am looking forward to expanding our footprint within the US market and showing our partners and customers that we, as a company, are constantly working to provide the best products, technology, training, and support.”

    Byrne will focus on assessing the immediate needs of Powersoft’s US team, including day-to-day activities, product training, customer education and overall technical support systems. He also aims to implement a relevant and sustainable product training system for Powersoft’s dealers, showcasing the company’s efficient engineering approach to sustainability, long-term reliability, and cost savings, as well as value add product features.

    “We are delighted to welcome the five new hires in the Powersoft team” says Luca Giorgi, sales and new business development director at Powersoft. “Their extensive and diverse skill sets will enhance our ability to serve our business clients and collaborate with our partners. The addition of Jonathan, Jinfu, Michael, Tom, and Joe to our global team, strengthens our commitment of making inspiring, reliable, and innovative products while helping our customers to be more successful.”

  • Coastal Source® Strengthens Partnership with AccessReps with Appointment to Represent the Company in New England

    Coastal Source® Strengthens Partnership with AccessReps with Appointment to Represent the Company in New England

    Coastal Source, with over 60 years of experience, offers high-performance outdoor audio and lighting solutions, ensuring reliability and environmental testing for real-world problems.

    Coastal Source has expanded its partnership with AccessReps, appointing the firm to represent its outdoor audio and lighting solutions in New England and upstate New York (excluding Fairfield County, CT). This partnership includes AccessReps’ acquisition of a new Coastal Source Mobile Demo Van for enhanced sales and marketing efforts in these regions.

    The expansion is due to AccessReps’ successful increase in sales of Coastal Source products in upstate New York over the past year. The partnership aims to leverage AccessReps’ experienced sales team and their commitment to customer excellence to further grow Coastal Source’s presence in New England and upstate New York. The new demo van will enhance hands-on demonstrations and customer engagement, driving further success for both companies.

    Strengthening its successful partnership with manufacturer sales rep firm AccessReps, Coastal Source today announced the appointment of the New England based firm to represent Coastal Source’s line of high-performance outdoor audio and lighting solutions throughout New England, as well as upstate New York, with the exception of Fairfield County, CT. AccessReps currently represents the company’s product line in upstate New York.

    “In the first year of our relationship with AccessReps, Jason Vedovelli and his team of dedicated sales professionals have significantly increased sales of our outdoor audio and lighting solutions throughout the upstate New York region,” said Coastal Source President Jeff Poggi. “They have the passion for excellence and deep care for their customers that we value at Coastal Source. Their commitment to building the Coastal Source brand is also evident by their purchase of our 15th Mobile Demo Van that will be hitting the roads of New England this summer.”

    AccessReps, LLC was started in 2020 based on the long established heritage of House of Reps. The firm, managed by its team of six strategically places sales professionals, brings decades of experience and relationships to the upstate New York and New England regions. The company’s aggressive, “hands on” approach to sales and marketing has helped the firm partner with some of the most elite brands in the residential, CI, light commercial and mobile audio markets. The company serves a network of 500 dealers and installers.

    “We pride ourselves on our ability to represent each and every brand from both a technical and promotional perspective,” said Jason Vedovelli, AccessReps Managing Principal today. “We have had great success working with the Coastal Source team and their truly unique outdoor audio and lighting solutions and we look forward to presenting their solutions to even more customers throughout upstate New York and New England with the purchase of our own Coastal Source Mobile Demo Van.

    “This van is going to be a gamechanger for us and for our dealer partners,” he emphasized. “We are going to put this van to work visiting dealers and their customers, demonstrating the superior design and performance capabilities of the Coastal Source solutions on site, both at the dealer location and at the homes of the consumers they serve. We’re excited to take our relationship with Coastal Source to the next level of success!”

  • IBC2024 to See First-time Innovation, Talent and Growth Initiatives for Global Media Industry

    IBC2024 to See First-time Innovation, Talent and Growth Initiatives for Global Media Industry

    IBC2024 brings together creative, technology, and business communities to showcase innovative solutions and address media sector trends. It aims to empower the global community to explore new opportunities and drive change.

    IBC2024, held at RAI Amsterdam from September 13th-16th, will introduce new show features including the AI Tech Zone, an IBC Talent Programme, and an AV Speed Pitch Event. These additions aim to foster networking, learning, and business opportunities. The event will spotlight themes such as transformative technology, shifting business models, and people and purpose.

    The new features and events at IBC2024 are designed to address industry trends, challenges, and opportunities. The AI Tech Zone showcases the impact of AI on media and entertainment. The Talent Programme promotes diversity and inclusion, and the AV Speed Pitch Event connects technology companies with major AV purchasers, enhancing collaboration and innovation in the media and entertainment industry.

    IBC2024 has unveiled a host of exciting new show features fuelling networking, learning, collaboration and business opportunities at this year’s event, which takes place in the RAI Amsterdam on 13th-16th September. IBC executives announced details around the new AI Tech Zone, a unique IBC Talent Programme, a first-time AV Speed Pitch Event, and other elements of the show that will spotlight its key themes: Transformative Technology, Shifting Business Models, and People and Purpose.

    Michael Crimp, IBC’s Chief Executive Officer, says: “IBC continues to find new ways to address the trends, issues, challenges and opportunities driving innovation in media and entertainment. Additions to the show, such as the AI Tech Zone, the Talent Programme, and the AV User Group event, combined with the outstanding line-up of visionary speakers we have for this year’s Conference, ensure that IBC is again positioned to deliver the world’s foremost M&E event. This year, with major global sports events and election coverage putting media performance more in the spotlight than ever, we bring together an industry looking to tap new methods and technologies as it continues to redefine itself.”

    The new AI Tech Zone, powered by EBU in Hall 14, offers a central hub for AI providers, creators utilising the technology, and solution vendors meeting specific industry needs to show how AI can positively impact the industry. An AI Tech Zone Stage – sponsored by Wasabi Technologies – will feature industry leaders and visionaries sharing their insights into how AI is transforming media and entertainment and how it can shape the sector’s future. A networking zone – sponsored by DOT Group – will allow the IBC community to engage directly with some of the most innovative players pioneering AI for M&E. Other AI exhibitors include AI4ME, AudioShake, Magnifi, MobiusLabs, The Weather Company, Video.Taxi, Vionlabs, Zaibr, and Videolinq.ai.

    IBC2024 will also feature a unique IBC Talent Programme on Monday, 16th September, in the Showcase Theatre in Hall 8. The free-to-attend sessions will explore how the M&E community can work together to nurture new talent, make training accessible, and develop common standards on diversity and inclusion. Working with key stakeholders and partners to create a foundation for the industry’s future, the IBC programme will examine the benefits of partnerships and mentoring, promoting the industry to the next generation of media professionals, developing skills, and driving engagement with M&E companies.

    Another new element being introduced at IBC2024 is a special Audio Visual (AV) buyers’ event on the eve of the show. Working with the AV User Group, IBC has created an IBC Speed Pitch Event for 40 of its members on September 12th. The event offers media technology companies the opportunity to promote their products, services and brands directly to major AV purchasers, including Arup, AstraZeneca, Bank of America, Barclays, Deliveroo, Schroders, UBS and WPP.

    Other show features that further reinforce IBC’s unique and extensive offering include:

    • The Esports Showcase, in partnership with Unlocked, in Hall 8, which shows the latest innovations in gaming production and delivery
    • The new World Skills Café, the industry’s first global flagship event for skills, diversity, and education, taking place Thursday, 12th September at the RAI Amsterdam
    • Partner groups RISE and RISE Academy, Galsngear, Women in Immersive Tech, Women in Streaming Media, HBS, SMPTE, RTS and Final Pixel Academy supporting and participating in initiatives aimed at fostering talent and inclusivity
    • The IBC Innovation Awards, which take place on Sunday, 15th September at the RAI
    • The Technical Papers Programme, which is presented throughout the IBC Conference
    • The IBC Accelerator Media Innovation Programme, which brings together pioneering media companies and leading-edge technology partners to demonstrate how they are collaborating to solve real-world challenges and drive industry advances
    • And the IBC Conference, taking place 13th-15th September at the RAI; more details of keynotes and speakers will be announced in early July

    The amount of space booked by exhibitors for IBC2024 has now passed 45,000 square metres, already exceeding last year’s final total – with over 1,100 exhibitors signing contracts so far. Among the 150+ new exhibitors at IBC2024 are 5G Broadcast Collective, CDN Alliance, Datacamp, Eosos, Frequency Networks, Medianet Berlin, Strada, SwXch IO, and Vubiquity, while Benro, Insta360, Robe, The Weather Company, Vecima, and Yamaha are returning to the show for the first time since 2019.

    The leading global media technology brands exhibiting this year also include Arabsat, Arri, Avid, AWS, Blackmagic, BT Media, Canon, Comcast, Eutelsat, Evertz, EVS, Google, Grass Valley, Harmonic, Huawei, Imagine Communications, LG, Lawo, LTN, Mediakind, Microsoft, Nagra, Panasonic, Riedel, Ross Video, Samsung, SES, Sony, Tata Communications, Telestream, Zero Density, Zixi, and ZTE.

    Steve Connolly, Director at IBC, notes: “We’re seeing overwhelmingly strong demand from exhibitors, with many returning brands increasing space and new companies coming in. There is already a very positive buzz around the exhibition this year — visitors to IBC2024 will see exciting demos and get the chance to meet an increasingly wide array of innovative brands from across the media technology landscape. With the introduction of the AV User Group event, IBC continues to broaden its scope and provide more opportunities for both exhibitors and visitors.”

     

  • Navori Labs Achieves SOC 2 Type II Certification, Strengthening Commitment to Security and Trust

    Navori Labs Achieves SOC 2 Type II Certification, Strengthening Commitment to Security and Trust

    Navori Labs, a Swiss software innovator, is a company in digital signage, computer vision, and AI-driven marketing analytics, offering premium technologies and SOC 2 Type II certified services.

    Navori Labs has achieved SOC 2 Type II certification. This certification demonstrates the company’s commitment to high standards of data security, confidentiality, and privacy. It follows their SOC 2 Type I certification achieved in April 2023 and signifies their dedication to continuous improvement and operational excellence.

    The SOC 2 Type II certification enhances trust and security for Navori Labs’ digital signage solutions by ensuring stringent controls, continuous monitoring, and regular audits to protect against unauthorized access and data breaches. This certification provides customers with confidence that their data is managed and protected according to industry best practices, reinforcing Navori Labs’ position as a reliable and secure partner.

    Navori Labs, a global leader in digital signage and AI-driven marketing analytics solutions, proudly announces the successful completion of its SOC 2 Type II certification. This milestone highlights Navori Labs’ dedication to upholding the highest standards of data security, confidentiality, and privacy for its customers.

    “Navori Labs is committed to safeguarding our customers’ data,” said Jerome Moeri, CEO of Navori Labs. “Earning SOC 2 Type II certification demonstrates our ongoing effort to maintain top-tier data protection and operational excellence. This certification assures our clients that their data is managed with the utmost care and security.”

    Enhancing Trust and Security for Digital Signage Solutions

    With over 26 years of innovation and leadership in the digital signage industry, Navori Labs continues to set benchmarks in security and performance. Following the achievement of SOC 2 Type I certification in April 2023, receiving SOC 2 Type II certification reinforces the company’s position as a trusted partner for enterprises and organizations worldwide.

    Navori’s flagship digital signage software is known for its robust features and scalability. Achieving SOC 2 Type II certification significantly enhances the software’s security by implementing stringent controls, continuous monitoring, and regular audits to protect against unauthorized access and data breaches. Additionally, this certification ensures that the software’s open architecture and proprietary API, which enable seamless third-party system integration, meet the highest standards of data protection, making it a preferred choice for various industries, including retail, corporate communications, healthcare, transportation, and more.

    Commitment to Continuous Improvement

    SOC 2 Type II certification is a rigorous standard ensuring high levels of security and privacy, requiring an independent audit to evaluate internal controls over a specified period. This certification is crucial for digital signage software providers, where sensitive data is often handled and displayed. It provides customers and stakeholders confidence that their information is managed and protected according to best industry practices.

    For Navori Labs, SOC 2 Type II certification underscores a dedication to improving security measures, distinguishing the company as a reliable and secure choice for businesses. This certification ensures that clients’ data is protected against potential threats, building trust and credibility.

    “Navori Labs remains at the forefront of digital signage innovation, and our SOC 2 Type II certification is a critical milestone in our journey,” added Moeri. “We will continue to invest in our security infrastructure and processes to meet the evolving needs of our customers and the industry.”

     

  • BenQ Education Partners With Lingokids

    BenQ Education Partners With Lingokids

    BenQ Education offers interactive display solutions for teachers, enhancing engagement and student performance. BenQ’s Tap ‘N Teach technology, EZWrite software, and InstaShare wireless screen presentation system provide intuitive learning experiences. Lingokids is an educational tech company transforming children’s learning experiences with its unique PlaylearningTM approach, offering engaging, interactive experiences for preschool through second grade, blending traditional and modern skills.

    BenQ announced that Lingokids, an educational tech and media company, is now available on BenQ Boards. This partnership aims to enhance the learning experience by integrating Lingokids’ Playlearning™ approach, which offers interactive and child-led learning experiences, into BenQ’s educational tools.

    The collaboration aims to provide teachers with more flexible and engaging resources for individualized learning, streamline classroom technology, and enhance student participation and learning outcomes through innovative, interactive tools available on BenQ Boards.

    BenQ, an internationally renowned provider of visual display and collaboration solutions, today announced Lingokids is now available on BenQ Boards. Lingokids is an educational tech and media company that is helping transform the way children can gain traditional educational and modern life skills. Its unique PlaylearningTM approach puts children in the center of the Lingokids universe, which provides thousands of engaging, interactive learning experiences in a variety of mediums and surrounds them with choice and exploratory child-led learning paths. This partnership is part of BenQ’s continuous commitment to providing direct access to a growing portfolio of apps and learning software that educators use daily from their BenQ Boards for a more streamlined, future-ready classroom.

    “Teachers need streamlined tools and resources to make the greatest impact for individualized learning, which is at the core of our BenQ Boards,” said Carly Burton-Sallay, senior marketing manager at BenQ Education. “Lingokids provides countless options for creating a fun and exciting learning experience that can now be offered on their BenQ Boards, unlocking a new level of engagement for the whole classroom. With this partnership, educators have more flexibility than ever before when accessing Lingokids, so they can teach their way.”

    The BenQ Boards are purpose-built for teachers so that they can provide exciting learning opportunities from the moment they sign on. Encouraging active participation in class while protecting student and teacher health, the germ-resistant BenQ Boards boast BenQ’s Tap ‘N Teach technology, which features one-tap NFC log-in to load lesson materials and interactive teaching apps, cloud storage, settings, and tools instantly and securely. The smart boards also feature a germ-resistant screen, pen, and remote; split windows for multitasking; array microphones; 16W speakers with 16W Dolby Digital Plus surround sound; InstaShare wireless screen sharing; new Eyesafe® technology for reducing blue light emissions; and more.

    “We are incredibly excited to bring Lingokids to the BenQ Boards platform natively,” said Vicenç Ferrer, senior strategic partnerships manager at Lingokids. “At the heart of Lingokids is providing teachers with an engaging product suite that features superior-quality educational activities and content so early learners can thrive. By partnering with BenQ Education, we’re able to bring greater ease for accessing and sharing our content with students.”

    Teachers can use their BenQ Board as a whiteboard, display, computer, and wireless screen-sharing system, thanks to BenQ’s license-free EZWrite 6 software. It’s packed with classroom tools for all subjects, including timers, rulers, protractors, compasses, and more. EZWrite 6 also lets educators save whiteboard sessions in the cloud, allowing them to continue giving lessons at a later date or allowing students to access lessons on any device and refer to them later. They can also open documents and image files directly on the whiteboard to facilitate discussions. To complement the experience, the split-screen windows function enables multiple applications to be opened side by side — with no need to tap between content — making it even easier to conduct lessons and further comprehension.

     

  • Australian Integrator Builds a Comfortable “Nest” From Snap One Products

    Australian Integrator Builds a Comfortable “Nest” From Snap One Products

    Snap One, a smart living technology manufacturer and distributor, offers entertainment, connectivity, control, and security solutions to residential and commercial users worldwide. It provides software, support, and digital workflow tools to integrator partners.

    AudioTech, a high-end integration firm in Australia, collaborated with Snap One Partner Sean Linden to implement a comprehensive smart home solution in a luxury residence called “The Nest.” The project involved integrating various Snap One products, including Control4 automation, Araknis and Pakedge networking components, Luma surveillance cameras, and more, to create a seamless and customizable smart home experience.
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    By integrating Snap One products, especially the Control4 automation system, AudioTech enhanced the customer experience by offering a one-stop solution for tech-savvy homeowners. Leveraging Snap One’s products enabled AudioTech to provide tailored and innovative smart home experiences in “The Nest,” adding playful touches to the technology while ensuring comfort and convenience for clients.

    For seasoned Snap One Partner Sean Linden from Australian-based integration firm AudioTech, a critical aspect of business is offering a one-stop shop for high-end, tech-savvy homeowners. In addition to designing and deploying custom smart systems into luxury residences, his company also installs electrical cabling. It’s no surprise, then, when it came to choosing a provider of home technology, Linden turned towards Snap One. With their vast range of smart devices and systems, “they are the epitome of a one-stop shop, which aligns perfectly with our business philosophy,” Linden says. “Every project we do is touched by their products in some way.”

    One of AudioTech’s most exciting Snap One projects to date is an ultra-contemporary residence called “The Nest.”

    Perched on a hilltop in Canberra, Australia, “The Nest” nomenclature is symbolic of more than the home’s prominent location. The vast variety of best-in-class products integrated into this one-of-a-kind residence create a comfortable and cozy refuge for the owners.  “We were fortunate enough to have a long, 12-month planning period and clients who were very receptive to exploring a wide range of possibilities,” Linden recalls. “We had ample time to collaborate, brainstorm, and conceptualize many different applications for the technologies and the outcome speaks for itself.”

    AudioTech used the ample planning time to select an integration-friendly, highly customizable Control4 system to synchronize the operation of many different types and brands of smart home devices. A member of the Snap One family of products, the Control4 automation platform would interoperate easily with the many other Snap One products chosen for “The Nest,” including Araknis and Pakedge Wi-Fi networking components, distributed AV system, Luma surveillance cameras, architectural lighting and more. Products from vendors outside the Snap One family were also placed under the supervision of the Control4 system, giving the owners a simple means of managing every aspect of their home environment from Control4 touchscreens and keypads flush mounted within the walls, remote controls on nightstands and coffee tables, and even a mobile app on their smartphones. From any of these interfaces the family can launch a Welcome scene to set the lights, temperature, motorized window shades and security system for their return home from errands or a holiday. Another scene launches a string of commands to prepare the home environment for bedtime. And what would “The Nest” be without a simple one-touch activation of a high-end home cinema? Within seconds, a Sony video projector and Anthem AV receiver fire up and deliver 4K video and audio to a 165-inch Dragonfly screen and Triad surround-sound speakers. These scenes and others were tailored precisely by AudioTech to the family’s routines and preferences.

    Familiarity with the Control4 brand by both AudioTech and the homeowners, who had used Control4 in a previous residence, inspired a highly creative approach to the automation of “The Nest.” “Our team and our clients both felt comfortable and confident enlisting the Control4 system to adjust connected systems automatically without any human interaction” says Linden. Scenarios engaged by a tap of a button are joined by those that unfold when triggered by the opening of a door, motion sensor, and timeclock. Per the owners’ request to expand the reach of their Control4 system even further, AudioTech also integrated motorized window shades, motorized panels and lifts that reveal hidden TVs, ceiling fans, electronic door locks, garage door openers, and a motorized gate at the entrance to the property. The basement, where the owner’s luxury car collection is showcased, received special attention with lighting and music easily adjustable via any convenient Control4 interface. Strategically positioned surveillance cameras also watch over the prized autos.

    Certainly, the Control4 system and its connected subsystems provide the owners with a plethora of practical benefits. Still, there was a bit of fun to be had. AudioTech and the owners put their heads together to devise a few more lighthearted tasks for the multi-faceted automation system to handle. The massive motorized front door was one of the first places they addressed. Guests who press the button of a Control4 intercom station can’t help but chuckle at the perfectly timed creaking sound effects that play as the door swings open. Sound effects were applied to the elevator, as well. The Star Wars theme song plays as a motorized panel slides to reveal a big screen TV and when the elevator doors open. “Features like these add a fun twist to the technology,” Linden says. “We can’t wait to see what ideas the owners think of next. No matter what they dream up, the Control4 system and Snap One are up for the challenge.”

     

  • Aten and Netgear Forge Strategic Partnership for Global AV over IP Dominance

    Aten and Netgear Forge Strategic Partnership for Global AV over IP Dominance

    Aten, a provider of KVM and AV/IT products, has officially announced a strategic partnership with Netgear in a move aimed at spearheading innovation in the realm of AV over IP infrastructure. The collaboration, rooted in the Taiwanese market, gained momentum through a close alliance with Netgear’s Taiwan distributor, Netbridge Technology.

    The primary objective of this partnership is to transcend borders, taking collaborative efforts from Taiwan to a global stage. The focus of their technical collaboration lies in developing stable, high-performance products for various applications, including digital signage and AV extensions in control rooms.

    The strategic collaboration comes at a pivotal moment in the ever-evolving technological landscape. As the industry witnesses rapid advancements, Aten and Netgear aim to deliver solutions that not only keep pace with trends but also set new benchmarks for excellence.

    One of the key benefits arising from this collaboration is the promise of a more streamlined AV infrastructure. System integrators stand to gain significantly, as the partnership aims to simplify and reduce costs associated with AV wiring projects. This approach enhances maintainability and ensures higher product performance and stability.

    The impact of this collaboration extends beyond the business-to-business landscape, empowering customers to implement AV over IP projects in a more cost-effective manner. With a shared commitment to excellence, Aten and Netgear are set to redefine standards for AV over IP solutions, offering a compelling blend of innovation, reliability, and affordability.

    As Aten and Netgear embark on this journey of collaboration, the industry eagerly anticipates the transformative products and solutions that will emerge from their combined expertise. The partnership’s ripple effect is poised to shape the future of AV technology, with a global outreach that promises to leave a lasting imprint on the audio-visual landscape.

     

  • Lightware Unveils New Brand Identity to Mark 25 Years of AV Innovation

    Lightware Unveils New Brand Identity to Mark 25 Years of AV Innovation

    Lightware Visual Engineering, a specialist in signal management, is dedicated to designing, manufacturing, and delivering cutting-edge matrix switchers, extenders, and AV-over-IP systems for diverse AV projects, prioritizing customer needs and exceptional service.

    In an exciting development, Lightware Visual Engineering has recently unveiled a substantial update to its corporate identity, symbolizing its unwavering commitment to innovation spanning the past 25 years.

    This rebranding effort underscores Lightware’s dedication to innovation and evolution throughout its 25-year journey. The new design maintains a connection to Lightware’s history while introducing a modern and streamlined aesthetic. The updated color scheme and slogan prominently showcase Lightware’s core values of innovation, reliability, and European origin. Notably, the company has played a pivotal role in advancing the AV industry.

    Lightware Visual Engineering, a leading manufacturer of connectivity solutions for the professional integrated systems market, today announced a significant update to its corporate identity. This rebranding reflects Lightware’s commitment to continuous innovation and its evolution over the past 25 years.

    Lightware’s decision to revise its branding and logo was made to better align the company’s visual persona with its status as an innovator in the technology sector. The new design retains a connection to Lightware’s past while introducing a more modern and streamlined look. This includes an updated color scheme and a new slogan that highlights Lightware’s key values: innovation, reliability and its European origin.

    Lightware’s history is marked by its role in pioneering solutions within the AV industry. The company has been responsible for notable developments such as the EDID manager, Hybrid Matrix switchers, transmitters and receivers, and LARA, a USB-C based collaboration solution with the award winning Taurus UCX. This track record of innovation is set to continue, with Lightware actively adapting to meet emerging market needs in both hardware and software.

    Starting as a small Hungarian company, Lightware has grown to become a leading European AV manufacturer. While its operations have expanded globally, the company’s development and manufacturing processes remain centered in Budapest, underlined by the “Made in Europe” aspect of its new brand identity.

    “This rebranding strategy, coupled with the launch of our revolutionary products in 2024, reflects our evolution and ongoing commitment to excellence in the AV industry,” commented Gergely Vida, CEO of Lightware Visual Engineering. “Our new identity respects our rich history while boldly stating our readiness to face future challenges and opportunities. With some of these cutting-edge innovations set to be unveiled at ISE in Barcelona, this is an exciting time for Lightware, and we are confident these developments will strongly resonate with our customers and partners around the globe.”

    Watch the short video of Lightware’s new brand here: https://nextcloud.lightware.com/index.php/s/QmSnedb6wwzjoJX

  • Malaysian Community and Cultural Hub REXKL Chooses LEA Professional Connect Series Amplifiers to Create Immersive Experiences

    Malaysian Community and Cultural Hub REXKL Chooses LEA Professional Connect Series Amplifiers to Create Immersive Experiences

    Kuala Lumpur is a city steeped in rich history and traditions. Originally a small hamlet of just a few houses and shops, it stands proud as the capital of Malaysia and is home to 1.8 million people. At the heart of Kuala Lumpur lies a new community and cultural hub, REXKL. Designed within what was once the legendary Rex Theatre, which twice shut down due to fires in 1972 and again in 2002, the hub opened in September 2023 as a part of a mission to rejuvenate the theater in a forgotten part of the city.

    The two-story, 60,000-square-foot building features retail shops and restaurants in the basement and a picturesque bookstore and exhibition space on the upper floor. Shin Tseng and Shin Chang, the creative entrepreneurs who helped reimagine the Rex, wanted the new space to be a unique, immersive performance venue. Featuring the original theater’s brick and exposed structure, it is now a modern, industrial marvel that hosts performers and exhibitors. With a desire for the space to captivate guests with vivid visuals and audio, the venue deployed LEA Professional amplifiers in the REXPERIENCE center, or RXP for short, within REXKL as part of its grand reopening and reinvention.

    The venue management team’s broad vision for immersive exhibitions meant the new RXP AV system needed to be flexible enough to meet the most demanding, highest-quality audio needs for immersive musical and visual performances, plus more basic productions, including corporate events and DJ shows. “The multidimensional nature of the events held in the RXP venue meant we needed to recommend a system that we could scale and adapt as needed,” said Eugene Yeo, General Manager of Acoustic & Lighting System. “We’ve had a lot of success with LEA products and felt they were a perfect fit for RXP because they could provide the power, performance, and reliability needed.”

    Set in a former movie theater, RXP reimagines the legacy of the Rex cinema space by bringing in a new, cutting-edge digital art experience. As the first immersive venue in Malaysia, the venue team wanted to get the details right and spent over a year planning, working with the participating visual artists, and designing the spatial audio tracks. The immersive environment includes 18 projectors mapping visual elements on the walls and floor, while the spatial audio design required that the venue be fully modeled in 3D.

    Eighteen compact two-way loudspeakers, backed by four subwoofers, are strategically located throughout the RXP to provide the spatial audio listening experience. To help meet the range of audio needs, Acoustic & Lighting System chose a combination of two of LEA Professional’s Connect Series 1504D and five Connect Series 704D for the digital art experience. The 1504Ds power the subwoofers, while the 704Ds support the two-way loudspeakers. Both models include 96 kHz-capable Dante and AES67 connectivity options.

    The high-power IoT-enabled four-channel 1504D provides 1,500 watts per channel into 2, 4, and 8 ohms and 70Vrms and 100Vrms. The CS1504D includes advanced DSP with 96 kHz linear phase FIR crossover filters, acoustically transparent look ahead RMS and peak limiters, 32-bit floating-point DSP with built-in sample rate converters, and two Smart Power Bridge channels.

    Conversely, each 4-channel 704D delivers 700 watts per channel. It supports high-Z (70V or 100V) and low-Z selectable by channel, giving the venue much-needed design flexibility and enough additional capacity to support future expansion efforts.

    The Connect Series delivers an industry-first professional amplifier family to feature cloud connectivity, a revolutionary advancement and a significant benefit for anyone maintaining the systems. With LEA Cloud, AV teams can remotely control and monitor the amplifiers regardless of the location or time of day. Whether from within the REXKL or on another continent, controlling the Connect Series amplifiers from afar helps teams work more efficiently, reducing travel and saving time and money.

    For larger, mixed-used spaces like REXKL, LEA Professional’s SharkWare software allows integrators to work both in offline design and online mode on a systems amplification configuration to ensure a more seamless, accessible, and flexible user experience with all LEA Professional Connect Series amplifiers. Available for both Windows and Mac, Sharkware includes features such as amplifier grouping, offline design, granular user access control levels, locked speaker tunings, and a graphical EQ. Sharkware also incorporates key features from LEA Professional’s existing WebUI tool, allowing users to monitor the status of every amplifier connected to the network and the status and performance of individual channels. In addition, the software allows users to view and adjust channel settings such as input settings, signal generator, crossover, equalizer, limiter, and load monitoring for all LEA Professional Connect Series amplifiers.

    The REXKL has become a destination point for locals and a must-see spot for tourists. It’s also a state-of-the-art performance center delivering the highest quality audio performance for every event. “Since opening, the “Other World” immersive experience in the RXP has really put the audio system to the test,” said Brian Pickowitz, VP of Marketing at LEA Professional. “Creating an art exhibition that sparks discovery and inspiration among art lovers and bringing the venue back to life in such a unique way is incredibly meaningful and one we were proud to be part of.”