2009 InfoComm - Rental & Staging Product Awards Finalists Revealed, Vote NOW!

2009 InfoComm - Rental & Staging Product Awards Finalists Revealed, Vote NOW!

Vote now for the 2009 InfoComm/Rental & Staging Product Awards at:

www.zoomerang.com/Survey/?p=WEB228ZJ857QU5

Voting will be open from April 2nd-April 30th. Please only vote once for the products you find the most innovative. Finalists and their descriptions are below or in a slideshow here.

Best Show Control Product

  • Alcorn McBride V16 Pro
  • Stable, reliable show control with advanced functionality are hallmarks of the V16 Pro. In addition to its 16 serial ports, 16 inputs and 16 outputs, the V16 Pro provides dual Ethernet ports, enhanced scripting and protocol functions, linear timecode in and out, an accurate real-time clock and more.

AV Stumpfl Iseo
With its Iseo, AV Stumpfl offers a software and intergrated solution for media control and building automation which is suitable both for commercial installations and mobile applications. This software runs on virtually all Windows-based user terminals.

RTI U2 Weather Resistant Universal System Controller
Designed for reliable wireless control of AV systems operated in harsh environments, the U2 is a weather resistant universal remote featuring eight programmable 'soft' buttons, an LCD display and the ideal selection of commonly used keypad buttons. Its rugged and durable design allows the U2 to take control to virtually any location, perfect for rental and staging applications.

Best Digital Signage Product

LG Stretch Screen
Half the height of traditional displays, LG Electronics' unique "Stretch Screen" (model M3800S-BN) provides an innovative digital signage option for hard-to-fit installations. LG's Stretch Screen LCD monitor is ideally suited for end cap placement and tight installations, including retail, corporate, hospitality, and other environments. Features include a 178 degree viewing angle, RGB and DVI interface, and RS-232C control.

NEC MultiSync LCD8205
The 82-inch NEC MultiSync LCD8205 is a professional-grade display that gives organizations the ability to showcase brand messages in an eye-catching, large format, with rich colors and amazing clarity. The display can even be tiled together for a video wall up to four displays high and four displays wide to create a massive video canvas of 328 inches diagonal viewable area.

Peerless FPZ-670
Peerless' FPZ-670 flat panel stand provides a stunning, yet secure and sturdy solution for XL flat panels in portrait or landscape orientation. More than a stand, our solution stands out in high traffic areas, on a variety of surfaces and helps you create a digital signage experience that cannot be missed.

Best General AV Product

Extron FOXBOX Fiber Optic Extenders
The Extron FOXBOX 4G DVI and FOXBOX 4G VGA Fiber Optic Extenders are transmitter and receiver sets for sending DVI or RGB, stereo audio, and RS-232 control signals over a single fiber. Engineered for reliability and exceptional high resolution image performance, they use Extron's exclusive all digital, zero compression technology to deliver perfect pixel-for-pixel transmission of computer-video images up to UXGA and HDTV 1080p/60.

Firefly Energy Series
5-channel LED illuminated cable protector designed to increase pedestrian awareness, reduce accidents, and liability. High visibility animated battery powered LED lighting in a heavy duty all weather design that meets the demands of the live event/broadcast industries, and offers maximum protection for electrical, DMX, and other cables.

HME WS200 Wireless Speaker Station
The WS200 is a unique mobile solution for a remote speaker station that does not have to be connected to a hardwired system. The only wireless speaker designed for two-way intercom communication instead of a wireless beltpac or All-in-One headset. Designed for use with HME's DX200 or DX100 base station.

Vaddio Quick Connect CCU
The first camera control unit for Robotic pan/tilt/zoom cameras, the Vaddio Quick-Connect CCU enables the adjustment of color, gain, pedestal, gamma and iris functions on the camera with the turn of the knob. These controls allow the camera to deliver a more accurate representation of the image that is being captured and color match and shade multiple cameras. User-defined adjustments may be stored using two Scene buttons.


Best HD Production Product

Apantac TAHOMA LE Series
The Tahoma Multiviewers are a new 3G-ready family of multi-image display processors. Tahoma auto-detects 4 to 32 video inputs, supports DVI, HDMI and VGA outputs up to 2048x1080, and includes built-in video and audio alarm detection. The Tahoma series incorporates a built-in CATx extender, which allows digital 1080P signals to be extended up to 115 feet.

AV Stumpfl Wings Platinum
Wings Platinum is the most advanced multidisplay production and presentation system on the market today and is renowned for its' wide range of functions and high performance in presenting incredible shows. With its cutting edge functions Wings Platinum has been part of the most spectacular shows, exciting installations and astonishing presentations around the world.

Best LED Product

Daktronics PST-10 Modular LED Panel
The Daktronics PST-10 modular panel combines high-contrast 3-in-1 black-stamped LED technology, high-resolution and 5,000 nits of brightness with a thin, lightweight panel design bringing crisp, vibrant video to any location. With a quick setup, teardown and transport process the PST-10 is an ideal choice for the rental and staging industry.

Element Labs Cobra
Cobra displays are the culmination of an extensive research and development program, resulting in next-generation display technology. Cobra is the industry's first truly environmentally friendly display, with a fraction of the power consumption and heat generation of other LED displays. It also features a true 100,000 hour lifetime along with RoHS and industry-leading FCC Class B EMC compliance.

Element Labs Helix P1
Quickly deploy video over large spaces in creative ways with award-winning Helix P1, a flexible LED pixel string. It can bend, wrap, drape, and fold to conform to even the most demanding designs. Create an LED screen out of uncommon surfaces and shapes. Revive existing architecture by turning the structure itself into a glowing piece of art. A cable-like construction gives flexibility for even the most arbitrary shapes.


Best Lighting Product

A.C. Lighting Chroma-Q Color Block 2
Chroma-Q Color Block2 modular lighting fixture redefines LED lighting. The single color, camera-friendly RGBA optics radically increase the color palette and virtually eliminate multicolored shadows. A CRI of 90, theatrical-grade dimming and tungsten emulation allows for creating vibrant bold colors and subtle theatrical hues. Color Block2 features a wide range of mounting accessories.

Draper TorkStar Utility Line Set
Draper's TorkStar Utility Line Set raises and lowers a wide range of products used on stages, in gymnasiums and churches and other public venues. TorkStar is a safe, simple lifting system designed for intermittent usage, which can raise and lower lighting, speakers, backdrops, scenery, banners, flags, projection screens and more.

Best Loudspeaker

Community M12
Since its introduction, Community's M12 stage monitor has been acclaimed for its stylish, low-profile design, powerful performance and even, focused coverage. The new and improved M12 is ideal for any application where low visibility is a key requirement, including televised and corporate events, houses of worship, theater and stage performances.

Electro-Voice SxA100+
The Electro-Voice SxA100+ sets a new standard for powered speakers, providing multiple inputs with mix capability, an easy-to-use EQ section, and high power in a compact, attractive package. The SxA100+ was designed with careful attention to the dynamic requirements of music, to provide high SPL without excessive heat. The high-quality microphone preamp provides superb-sounding vocals and speech.

JBL VPC
JBL's new VPC models include powered 12 and 15 models. Integrated loudspeaker system, featuring JBL DrivePackTM technology with onboard digital signal processing and Differential Drive low frequency components. Ideal for portable rental and staging applications requiring light weight and compact size. Fitted with integrated stand mount.
Best Mixer

Dan Dugan E-1
The Dugan E-1 patches into a console’s input insert points; it detects which mics are being used and makes fast, transparent cross-fades, freeing the operator to focus on balance and sound quality. The Model E-1 eliminates cueing mistakes and late fade-ups while avoiding the choppy and distracting effects common to noise gates.

Midas PRO6
The new networked digital audio system from Midas, PRO6 provides up to 80 simultaneous input processing channels and up to 32 (+3) discrete mixes, all of which feature EQ and dynamics processing options. Unique, intuitive VCA and POPulation Group controls, all-around system flexibility, and legendary Midas sonic performance put PRO6 is in a class of its own.

Soundcraft Si3
The Soundcraft Si3 provides 64 inputs and 35 buses and features a unique user interface through O-Led displays in conjunction with 2 Virtual Channel Strips and rarely requires the use of menus. The console features Fader Glow technology to display fader modes and has 4 built in Lexicon Fx engines.

Best Plasma or LCD

LG 52LG50DC
LG Electronics' 52LG50DC HDTV features "Full HD" 1080p resolution for optimal picture quality and Backlight Control to lower the LCD backlight level based on the environment, providing power savings. Featuring a 15,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio, USB 2.0 input for photos and music, and Energy Star and RoHS compliancy, this HDTV also incorporates LG's sleek Invisible Speaker System and Clear Voice technology, which raises dialogue when on-screen background noise swells.

NEC MultiSync LCD8205
The 82-inch NEC MultiSync LCD8205 is a professional-grade display that gives organizations the ability to showcase brand messages in an eye-catching, large format, with rich colors and amazing clarity. The display can even be tiled together for a video wall up to four displays high and four displays wide to create a massive video canvas of 328 inches diagonal viewable area.

Samsung 460UXn-M
The Samsung 460UXn-M 46-inch narrow-bezel LCD display provides virtually seamless video walls, and is compatible with Samsung's MID40 Interlocking Display (ID) kit for easy installation. The display includes MagicInfo Pro Extension software for advanced video wall control via a single network server. The 460UXn-M model also features Samsung's DID panel technology that improves cooling for reliable, longer operation.

Sharp 108-inch LB-1085
Sharp's LB-1085 108-inch professional LCD monitor is the world's largest available commercial LCD. Redefining the professional display category with 24/7 reliability, full 1920 x 1080 high definition resolution and a fan-less design to minimize noise and dust intake, the LB-1085 offers unmatched performance for almost any commercial application.
Best Video Projector

Christie Roadster HD10K-M
The Christie Roadster HD10K-M is designed with stagers in mind. This 9500 ANSI lumen model ships equipped with more input cards than other Christie M Series models, as well as a stacking frame. This efficient 3-chip DLP projector offers reliable, dual mercury lamp brightness, in the smallest chassis in its class.

Panasonic PT-DZ6710U
PT-DZ6710U DLP projector specifications include WUXGA (1920 x 1200) resolution and 16:10 aspect ratio. With 6,000 lumens and new RGB Booster (lamp modulation) technology, color reproduction and brightness are maximized. Other features; Dual Lamp System, Auto Cleaning Filter, Geometric Adjustment for curved screen applications, Liquid Cooling System and HD/SD-SDI Input.

Digital Projection TITAN 1080p-700
With its rugged chassis and RapidRig frame with easy to adjust pitch, roll and yaw adjustments, DP's 3-chip DLP TITAN 1080p-700 delivers up to 10,000 lumens, 2000:1 contrast and color-accuracy ideal for any venue. DP's CoolTek efficiency platform ensures unmatched lumen output per wattage, thus producing brilliant images while limiting operative cost and environmental impact.

Sharp XG-P560W
The Sharp XG-P560W WXGA 3-chip DLP Projector offers a price performance breakthrough, providing the highest color accuracy, image quality and reliability in front projection. The projector features 5200 ANSI lumens, WXGA resolution, and 1800:1 contrast ratio for a bright picture in almost any lighting setting.

Best Projection Screen

AV Stumpfl
VARIO LOCK Frame System features our exclusive NEW integrated design for lightening fast assembly without tools or fasteners. This extremely rugged new innovative fastening system incorporates all of the features of our original Vario system and is compatible with all existing Vario System 32 and 64 products for long lasting performance time after time.

Da-Lite 3D Virtual Grey Description
The development of 3D content is rapidly changing the demand for presentations in the rental/staging market. Da-Lite is responding with 3D Virtual Grey. 3D Virtual Grey is the only projection screen fabric solely designed and engineered for use in passive stereoscopic projection. Available for Heavy Duty Fast Fold(r) Deluxe frames.

Elite Starbright7
Elite's StarBright multi-layered material combines a highly reflective 7-gain micro-textured surface with high contrast filter layers that resist ambient light, boost black levels and control hot spotting for an evenly lit angular reflective image. It has been used with resounding success in public venues with a strong ambient light intrusion.

Best Rental Software

Intelevent Express
IntelEvent is the leading provider of Inventory Control Event Rental and Production Software. We became the leader by sticking to our number one priority, SERVICE. We take great pride in the satisfaction of each of our customers. IntelEvent is an investment that continues to pay for itself well into the future of the partnership.

Orion Software Sirius Pro
Orion Software offers significant advances to Sirius Pro, the Rental & Inventory Management Software for controlling your activities, clients and inventories in an effective manner. New for 2009 is the Scenario Management Module, advanced Staff Management features and improved Barcoding functions that bring additional benefits to the end-user.
Best Video Broadcast or Streaming Product

Grass Valley MEDIAEDGE in Retail
Premier Retail Networks is now deploying its third generation of retail media solutions based on the Grass Valley MediaEdge3 DS video distribution system for a variety of new IP-based digital retail network deployments across the US. The Grass Valley MediaEdge3 DS video distribution system is an open platform that allows integrators to customize the system to fit different installations.

Sonic Foundry Mediasite RL and ML Recorders
Sonic Foundry's Mediasite RL and ML Recorders, the next generation in its family of webcasting appliances, raise the bar for streaming, archiving, securing and managing rich media webcasts. The result is the industry's simplest workflow, eliminating time-consuming authoring or post-production work, and seamless integration with your existing audio/video technologies.

Vaddio Quick Connect CCU
The first camera control unit for Robotic pan/tilt/zoom cameras, the Vaddio Quick-Connect CCU enables the adjustment of color, gain, pedestal, gamma and iris functions on the camera with the turn of the knob. These controls allow the camera to deliver a more accurate representation of the image that is being captured and color match and shade multiple cameras. User-defined adjustments may be stored using two Scene buttons.

Best Video Processing or Distribution Product

Analog Way Di-VentiX II
Used as a Multi-Layer Mixer, as a 16 by 2 Native Matrix with preview or as an Embedded Edge Blending device, it will make the show. In the latter mode you can display 7 layers anywhere on the panoramic screen. You can even record or monitor the full SEB presentation on a single video display.

Grass Valley MEDIAEDGE in Retail
Premier Retail Networks is now deploying its third generation of retail media solutions based on the Grass Valley MediaEdge3 DS video distribution system for a variety of new IP-based digital retail network deployments across the US. The Grass Valley MediaEdge3 DS video distribution system is an open platform that allows integrators to customize the system to fit different installations. Adapted by PRN for use in its video network manager, the MediaEdge3 system is being used to support PRN’s diverse clients’ needs in today’s challenging retail environment.

Magenta Research MultiView XR-2000 UTP Receiver
Magenta Research's MultiView XR-2000 UTP receiver boasts the longest distance reach of any video over UTP product line. Achieve 1920x1200 high-resolution video at 2,000 feet (610 meters) over a single uninterrupted cable, no splitters or repeaters required. Options include the ability to transport video plus stereo audio plus addressable duplex serial.

The AVNetwork staff are storytellers focused on the professional audiovisual and technology industry. Their mission is to keep readers up-to-date on the latest AV/IT industry and product news, emerging trends, and inspiring installations.