Another acquisition. A new CEO. There was some massive news that broke last week that was just too big to hold to our weekly recap.

The big news of the week was that Biamp acquired the assets of ClearOne. Wanting to know more, our own Mark J. Pescatore caught up with Joe Andrulis, EVP of corporate development for Biamp, and Derek Graham, CEO, ClearOne, to find out what exactly this means, not only for both companies, but their respective customers. You can read more here.

Two days later, Diversified made headlines by appointing Paul Lidsky as CEO. What does this mean for the integrator? Click here to find out.

And perhaps the most shocking news of the week was that No. 10 Reese's Peanut Butter Cups upset No. 1 Snickers in our SCN Halloween Candy Showdown bracket. Thank you to all our newsletter readers and LinkedIn followers that voted. It was a record-setting number! If you missed it, here is the round-by-round recap, with interviews from the winning candies.

People News

PPDS Names Bruce Wyrwitzke as New Senior Director of Sales for North America

PPDS has promoted Bruce Wyrwitzke to the leadership role of senior director of sales for North America. Leading PPDS’ total solutions growth strategy to support all market verticals in North America, Wyrwitzke, who is now entering his 25th year as an AV professional, joined PPDS as sales director in 2021.

During this period, Wyrwitzke has proved himself to be an accomplished leader, playing a pivotal role in positioning the company as a disruptive force in North America. In his new position, he will oversee all PPDS sales in North America, including digital signage, interactive displays, videowalls, dvLED, and professional TV, as well as complementary hardware and software, while continuing to support partners, customers, and colleagues on projects that extend beyond U.S. shores.

Riedel Communications Appoints Ulrich Voigt as Director Live Production Solutions

Riedel Communications welcomed Ulrich Voigt as director live production solutions, taking over the SimplyLive business leadership role from Luc Doneux. Voigt, a broadcast industry expert with 28 years of experience with software-based live production, has a focus on further integrating the SimplyLive product family into Riedel’s overall live video solutions strategy and driving additional growth across the business.

Voigt previously served as global head of product management and cloud transformation at Vizrt, where he was responsible for the strategic direction of software-based broadcast graphics, automation, and live production solutions. As member of the executive management team, he played a key role in the company's transformation towards integrated and cloud-based solutions and modern business models. Prior to Vizrt, Voigt was head of design at Qvest Media, leading the technological alignment of multi-system solutions for global consulting and systems integration projects.

Company News

Solid State Logic Appoints Commercial Audio as its Distributor in Czech Republic and Slovakia

Solid State Logic appointed Commercial Audio as its distributor in the Czech Republic and Slovakia regions. The company will provide end-to-end distribution services for SSL and Harrison Audio in both countries, including warehousing, logistics and support. The appointment builds on SSL's existing relationship with Commercial Audio in Poland for nearly 20 years, and will cover ACP (audio creation products) and large format consoles for live, broadcast, and studio.

Headquartered in Warsaw, Poland, Commercial Audio is known for its excellence in distribution, systems integration, and project management. The company has recently expanded its reach into Czech Republic and Slovakia with a dedicated team, while enhancing its knowledge base and capabilities. ​ ​ ​

tvONE and Matrox Video Partner on AV over IP Integration

tvONE announced a strategic partnership with Matrox Video, combining CALICO PRO’s high-performance video processing with the Matrox ConvertIP Series of encoders/decoders and converters. This integration enables connectivity to SMPTE ST 2110 and IPMX infrastructures, supporting compressed and uncompressed workflows with pixel-perfect results across a range of environments including broadcast, live events, control rooms, and experiential.

With CALICO PRO’s 66-million-pixel engine and Matrox Video’s FPGA core, customers gain flexibility, fidelity, and future-proof performance. Adding ST 2110 workflows to CALICO PRO enables direct integration into broadcast-grade IP infrastructures, allowing it to ingest uncompressed, low-latency video streams with precision. Customers can bypass traditional signal limitations, route content dynamically across fiber networks, and deploy CALICO PRO as a central processing hub in distributed environments. With IPMX support, it bridges the gap between Pro AV and broadcast, making CALICO PRO a versatile powerhouse in hybrid workflows.

Zoox: The Official Autonomous Ride-Hail Partner of the Vegas Sphere

Sphere Entertainment and Zoox, the autonomous ride-hailing company, announced a multi-faceted partnership that will make Zoox the official autonomous ride-hail partner of Sphere. As part of this partnership, the venue will have a dedicated autonomous vehicle ride-hail pick-up and drop off zone at Sphere, where guests will be able to utilize Zoox’s robotaxi ride-hail services through the Zoox app.

Zoox is creating a unique way to explore Las Vegas in a purpose-built robotaxi that gives riders back time, space, and choice. In September, Zoox officially launched its robotaxi service in Las Vegas, becoming the first company in history to provide a fully autonomous ride-hailing service in a purpose-built robotaxi.

On Monday, Biamp announced it was acquiring assets from ClearOne. Those assets include several patents, plus intellectual property and brands related to audio processing, microphone array processing, echo cancellation, and beamforming designs and techniques. According to Rashid Skaf, Biamp president, CEO, and co-chairman, the move strengthens the company's "deep audio engineering foundation and will enhance future product innovations across our portfolio."

Joe Andrulis, EVP of corporate development for Biamp, provided SCN with more details about the acquisition. First, he clarified that the transaction was an asset purchase through which Biamp acquired only select designs, patents, and related technologies from ClearOne.

“We do not plan to offer or support ClearOne-branded products,” he continued. "Instead, we’ll leverage these assets to accelerate innovation in areas such as microphone array design, DSP processing, and overall room audio performance—enhancing our future product roadmap.”

So, will the ClearOne brand remain? "ClearOne remains a publicly traded company with operations independent of the assets acquired by Biamp," Andrulis explained. "However, use of the ClearOne brand in association with products derived from the acquired technology is unlikely to continue beyond 2026."

The transaction was an asset purchase and did not involve personnel, so where does this leave ClearOne? According to Derek Graham, CEO, ClearOne, it's not going anywhere and it's not leaving its customers in a lurch.

“ClearOne will continue to exist as a public company after this asset sale,” Graham said. “We believe that this asset sale is the best way to maximize value for current shareholders while allowing the company to pivot to take advantage of new business opportunities in the future. We appreciate the support of our channel partners and customers over the years, and we plan to continue to provide support for our products consistent with our published warranty policy.”

Whether in person or remote, there is no denying that audio is the key component to positive hybrid experiences. In a world where employees and students alike need clear and intelligible audio, speakerphones offer a simple and quick setup to bring a conference anywhere and at any time.

[SCN Hybrid World: Right on Schedule]

Like many technologies in the post-pandemic world, speakerphones have evolved with enhancements over the past few years. SCN talked to manufacturers to find out what to look for when turning to speakerphones.

Plug-and-Play All Day

Portability. Bluetooth. USB-C. These are the terms thrown around with modern conferencing technology and what many people are looking for in their hybrid solutions. It should come as no surprise that it is no different for speakerphones.

In the "work from anywhere" world—as Josh Blalock, chief video evangelist at Jabra, calls it—portability and plug-and-play connectivity are table stakes for speakerphones. As Blalock explained, whether using a USB-C, USB-A, or Bluetooth connection, users want a frictionless meeting process from start to finish from an office huddle room or at their kitchen table. But, of course, it's always about the audio.

"High-quality audio is paramount," Blalock said. "Voice drop-offs, muffled audio, and background noise are not only frustrating, but also disruptive and can impact meeting productivity. Premium audio capabilities like full duplex audio help back-and-forth conversation in meetings sound and feel like they’re in person."

For Alan Nicholls, enterprise sales manager, MAXHUB, speakerphone features and capabilities are dictated by where the device is being set up. “For a dedicated conference room, portability and wireless are usually not necessary," Nicholls said. "For a traveling worker, the needs completely change. Portability, battery life, I/O, and Bluetooth will all be necessary. Something everyone needs is audio fidelity, voice pickup range, and noise cancelling."

[SCN Hybrid World: Out of Sight Sound]

In today's hybrid world, one in which multiple devices are daisy-chained and connected to an array of solutions, how much of a requirement is a charging dock for speakerphone setup? "Charging docks are popular in the conference speaker space, not so much in the portable speaker space," Nicholls said. "The USB-C port is used for both direct connectivity and charging. So, instead of a proprietary dock, you can use any USB-C cable to connect it to any device."

Conference Room Ready

With all-in-one solutions like videobars and highly advanced in-ceiling speaker and microphone systems, are speakerphones still an optimal choice for larger conference rooms? Joel Mulpeter, director, product marketing for Crestron, explained that Crestron Flex Pods were designed for this purpose. "For a larger space, a flexible, expandable system such as the Flex Pods solution is the ticket," he said. "It’s especially useful for mixed use rooms—conference rooms that need to double as training spaces, for example."

"Traditionally, speakerphones were a fixture of large conference rooms, but today we see them more and more in huddle rooms, collaboration spaces, and home offices," Blalock added. "As a portable, plug-and-play device, speakerphones have become a key addition to many hybrid workers’ work-from-home spaces. They’re also a perfect companion for business travelers that need high-quality audio while working from a hotel or other location outside of their normal day-to-day."

More AI and Beyond

AI is everywhere, and speakerphones are no exception. Blalock admits generative AI tools like Microsoft Copilot and Zoom AI Companion are at the core of every conversation when it comes to future enhancements in the conference room and beyond. "How well these AI tools receive and interpret input determines their success in driving productivity. The ability of speakerphones to accurately capture conversation in meetings is critical as even minor AI misunderstandings can impact AI-produced meeting transcripts and action items—and ultimately disrupt workflows and reduce productivity," he noted. "Maximizing high-quality audio in speakerphones will help to better harness the potential of AI companions in the year ahead."

[SCN Hybrid World: Room with a (Wide) View]

Expanding on that high-quality audio, Mulpeter added that in a world of AV-over-IP and audio-over-IP, future enhancements should always be aimed at creating spaces that are easily adaptable to the client’s wishes. "AV-over-IP and audio-over-IP is really the backbone of future integrations," he explained. "It’s expandable, it’s got the potential for broad interoperability, and we welcome a variety of third-party devices into our installations. Microphones are a great example. Our systems can handle a variety of applications, from speakerphone conversations to videoconferencing, all with very simple and intuitive controls."

Now that you know what features to look for, here are several speakerphones to consider for enhancing your conference room or hybrid meeting experience.

Atlona Captivate AT-CAP-SP100

The Atlona Captivate AT-CAP-SP100 speakerphone, which is USB and Bluetooth-ready, provides 360-degree coverage to capture voices within a radius of up to 16 feet. Its six-element microphone array focuses on audio pickup while suppressing background noises, allowing individual meeting participants to be heard clearly. Advanced acoustic echo cancellation and noise reduction further enhance voice intelligibility by eliminating unwanted sounds.

AVer FONE700

AVer’s FONE700 offers advanced audio technology with noise suppression, double-talk detection, and de-reverberation, ensuring clear, echo-free communication. Its full duplex system optimizes meeting experiences, while a single USB connection simplifies setup and reduces clutter. Equipped with three directional and 18 omnidirectional microphones, and supporting up to four speakerphones, it can capture voices within a 131-foot range. The FONE700 adapts to various room sizes and is certified for Microsoft Teams, Zoom, RingCentral, and Barco.

Biamp Speakerphone

The Biamp speakerphone is a combination of its TesiraFORTÉ X 400 DSP, Parlé TTM-X tabletop microphone, and Tesira HD-1 dialer hardware. The combination provides both telephony control and PoE with a dial pad from the Tesira HD-1 Dialer. The TesiraFORTÉ X 400 offers easy setup via Biamp Launch software, featuring AI-based automated startup and room tuning. The Parlé TTM-X mic is a low-profile 4.7-inch tabletop microphone with Beamtracking technology to focus on persons speaking anywhere in the room across four 90-degree audio zones for full 360-degree room coverage.

Boom Collaboration Boom GEMINI

The Boom GEMINI offers 48kHz wideband audio with a four-microphone, 26-foot, 360-degree omnidirectional range. The included expansion unit connects easily to extend the audio and microphone capacity for medium to large meeting spaces. The Boom GEMINI twin speakerphones are designed with enhanced features such as dynamic noise reduction, automatic echo cancellation, and USB plug-and-play capabilities.

ClearOne CHAT 150 BT

The ClearOne CHAT 150 BT was designed with simple USB and Bluetooth connections to personal computers, mobile devices, and desk phones. Its steerable microphone array with first-mic priority intelligently activates the microphone closest to the talker, reducing ambient noise interference. With features such as advanced noise cancellation, full duplex distributed echo cancellation, and automatic level control, the CHAT 150 BT offers intelligible, natural audio and is compatible with Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Google Meet.

Crestron Flex Pods

Crestron Flex Pods are a tabletop wireless audio solution that provide flexibility in how users deploy Crestron microphone and speaker solutions across an organization. Crestron Flex Pods include built-in microphones, speaker, and audio controls that wirelessly connect to a UC room solution such as a Microsoft Teams Room. No matter where people are in the space, the solution Flex Pods can be moved to ensure optimal range and reach so everyone can hear, and be heard, clearly.

Jabra Speak2 75

The Jabra Speak2 75 is a personal pocketable device for the coffee-table-conferencing, dining-room-dialing, and hotel-hot-desking meeting rooms of today’s hybrid world. The next generation of Jabra’s Speak Series, the Speak2 75 includes a 65mm speaker, super-wideband audio, full duplex audio for the most natural conversations, and four beamforming microphones. It features an intuitive microphone quality indicator, as well as both USB-C and USB-A connectors on the same cable.

Logitech Logi Dock

Logitech’s Logi Dock is an all-in-one docking station with one-touch meeting controls and a built-in speakerphone to simplify the personal workspace and improve the video meeting experience while decluttering the desktop space by providing a single connection point for desktop devices. Logi Dock is built with enterprise-grade audio and includes features that enable users to leverage the noise-cancelling speakerphone. For private conversations, users can automatically switch audio to another headset or earbuds—and switch to music from Logi Dock’s speaker once the meeting concludes.

MAXHUB BM35

Designed for use in small to mid-size meeting spaces, the compact MAXHUB BM35 Bluetooth teleconference speakerphone features an eight-microphone array and 360-degree omnidirectional audio algorithms to capture voices up to 19 feet away—enabling meeting participants to be clearly heard, while reverberation suppression minimizes distractions. With automatic gain control, intelligent algorithms adjust the volume of participant voices dynamically, keeping fluctuating volumes to a minimum., Bluetooth provides the ability to Connect two BM35s via Bluetooth for larger groups.

MSolutons MS-SP10

The MS-SP10 is a USB smart conference speakerphone with an embedded architecture design for use in meeting spaces of all sizes. It adopts the combination mode of main microphone plus extension microphone, capturing audio nearly 33 feet away with 360-degree omnidirectional pickup. The MS-SP10 integrates a diverse set of AI audio algorithms to accommodate noise reduction, echo cancellation, reverberation suppression, and automatic gain. The MS-SP10’s high and low-frequency speaker design plays music rich in bass and treble, and delivers clear and natural voices.

Sennheiser TeamConnect Intelligent Speaker

Optimized for small Microsoft Teams rooms, the TeamConnect Intelligent Speaker’s intuitive design is intended to give teams a way to collaborate in hybrid meetings as if everyone is in one place. Intelligent solutions such as integrated voice recognition software and automatic meeting notes make an equitable meeting experience possible for remote and hard-of-hearing participants. The speaker offers an omnidirectional speaker and covers a 7.5-foot radius with seven integrated beamforming microphones.

Telycam SONO

Telycam’s SONO AI-enhanced wireless speakerphone is designed to improve the way participants experience audio during videoconferences in personal workspaces, as well as small and medium-sized rooms. SONO incorporates a 1.75-inch speaker and eight omnidirectional microphones, with its direction-of-arrival recognition algorithm adjusting pickup toward the current speaker. A pickup distance of 16 feet ensures that everyone in the room can be heard. Additionally, SONO’s AI-driven noise reduction algorithm continuously learns and adapts dynamically to filter out noise such as keyboards, chairs, air conditioning, and other environmental sounds while ensuring that voices remain natural and clear.

Yamaha YVC-330

The Yamaha YVC-330 speakerphone, with SoundCap technology, provides clear audio in open workspaces and remote meetings by creating a 3-foot “audio bubble” around the speaker. This feature blocks background noise, ensuring only voices within range are transmitted. With additional capabilities like far field noise reduction and human voice activity detection, the YVC-330 filters out irrelevant sounds for enhanced call clarity. Compact, USB-powered, and ready for instant use, it easily transforms any space into a professional meeting environment, making it ideal for flexible or remote work setups.

Take a look at some new Pro AV hires, promotions, and big company partnerships and announcements you may have missed last week.

[SCN 2024 Stellar Service Awards Open for Entries]

People News

Planar Promotes Tani Klein to SVP of North America Sales

Planar promoted Tani Klein to SVP of North America Sales. Transitioning from his recent role as VP of sales, Northeast, Klein will now oversee all of the company’s geographic territories and vertical market teams across the United States and Canada.

Klein’s promotion follows years of demonstrated sales leadership and involvement in key milestones for the company. This includes helping execute new sales strategies as well as expand Planar’s customer base in the metro New York and Philadelphia regions. He joined Planar in 2014, first serving as a regional account manager before being promoted to director of sales, senior director of sales and vice president of sales for the Northeast territory.

Klein’s background is strengthened by nearly six years at Primeview, where he covered responsibilities ranging from technical to sales and operations. He opened the company’s first U.S. office, significantly contributing to the growth of the organization’s sales force and revenue. 

Mersive Technologies Appoints Theresa Benson as VP of Marketing and Product Management

Mersive Technologies has appointed Theresa Benson to the role of VP, marketing and product management. She will play a critical role in developing Mersive’s go-to-market strategy and a thoughtful roadmap of forward-thinking products grounded in the market’s ever-evolving collaboration needs. Benson will lead a global team to transform the way the world understands and experiences Mersive in 2024 and beyond. She has been a consultant for Mersive for nearly a year, working closely with the executive leadership, marketing, and engineering teams. 

Benson's prior experience developing InRule Technology’s combined messaging and go-to-market strategies after acquisitions in machine learning and process automation positions her well for her new role at Mersive, where she will lead the integration of advanced features into its platform roadmap.

NSCA Recognizes Ingolf de Jong with the 2024 Per Haugen Lifetime Achievement Award

NSCA presented Ingolf de Jong with the 2024 Per Haugen Lifetime Achievement Award at the 26th annual Business & Leadership Conference (BLC), held Feb. 27-29, 2024, in Irving, TX.

de Jong has worked in the industry for more than 40 years and is the former CEO and owner of General Communications (GENCOMM) and Communa Technologies. He has served on various boards throughout his career, including time as PSNI VP, ISE board member, and NSCA president. Today, he serves on the NSCA Education Foundation Board. Outside the industry, he serves on the Salt Lake Chamber Board of Governors and was the co-chair of the Small Business Committee. He also holds two U.S. patents: the first for an acoustic panel and the second for a Bluetooth Technology Conferencing Interface Device.

Haugen, who the award is named after, was instrumental in the launch of the NSCA Education Foundation and helped expand the influence of NSCA’s mission. In his honor, the Per Haugen Lifetime Achievement Award is given to an individual who exhibits dedication to philanthropy and social responsibility; is an active leader in the financial well-being of the industry, NSCA, and his or her company; demonstrates high ethics, values, integrity, and honesty in all business practices; and holds strong values in every aspect of life.

Company News

Samsung New Channel Partnership Empowers SMB Owners With Digital Signage

Samsung Electronics America is partnering with Quest Technology Management to introduce a managed service offering innovative digital signage solutions for small and midsize businesses (SMBs) exclusively through Telarus technology advisors. The all-in-one managed service package enables SMB owners to modernize their business environments with simplified content and device management and state-of-the-art displays to amplify brand impact.

The new service harnesses the power of Samsung’s market-leading digital signage technology and VXT Content Management System, a cloud-native solution for digital signage that transforms content creation, management and remote device operation. Through the service, Quest and Telarus offer SMB owners access to Samsung Display’s extensive portfolio of solutions, including best-in-class monitors, self-service kiosks, indoor and outdoor LED signage, as well as EV charging stations.

Samsung VXT CMS represents a leap forward in digital signage solutions, offering unparalleled ease in settings configuration, feature updates and remote installation from the cloud. The CMS allows for intuitive content creation on any mobile device, elevating business displays to new heights of creativity and efficiency. With a combination of cloud-native structure, intuitive UX design and smart business operations, VXT aims to transform digital signage management.

Key Digital Celebrates 25th Anniversary

Key Digital Systems is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2024. In 1999, Key Digital’s first product was a video distribution amplifier custom-designed for retailer Best Buy’s display televisions. That modest beginning was hardly indicative of the depth of knowledge and experience of Key Digital founder Mike Tsinberg, whose work in HD and digital video began along with the infancy of the technologies in the 1980s. Working with Thomson-CSF, Philips, and Toshiba, Tsinberg pioneered ideas that played a major role in the development and refinement of digital television – both broadcast and streaming, digital video recording and the DVD (for which the Toshiba team he was on received an Emmy Award). His portfolio now includes more than 40 patents.

Tsinberg’s philosophy of innovation has propelled Key Digital forward. “My ambition was always to create technology from scratch,” he said, which gives Key Digital enormous latitude for creativity. For his Key Digital engineering team, it’s not sufficient to merely deliver the core capabilities expected in a product category. Instead, built-in to their designs are elegant and transparent solutions for a host of connectivity issues that plague many AV installs, such as addressing the alphabet soup of inter-device communications (HDCP, EDID, CEC, etc.). Each product in the growing and evolving Key Digital product line is designed for value with no compromise in performance or quality and feature sets that redefine customer expectations. Signal extension in Key Digital’s product line is accompanied by control, beginning with bidirectional IR repeaters, and extending to IP and Open API control.

The 21st Century Key Digital offers an extensive product line spanning applications from restaurants and clubs to government, houses of worship, education, retail and residential. The product line ranges from extenders to switchers, matrix switchers, multi-view and video wall matrix processors, presentation switchers (including multi-format wall plate models) with extension transmission built-in, wireless extension and BYOD collaboration solutions, scalable AV over IP systems and the Compass Control Pro integrated iOS-based control system that which can extend unified iPad control to include a host of Compass Alliance partner systems beyond AV including lighting, HVAC, power and security.

“We are proud of what we’ve accomplished in our first 25 years,” concluded Tsinberg. “We can’t begin to thank our customers enough for believing in our vision. All corporations are made of people, and we have the best and thank them as well for all they do. We are also excited about the explosion of technological advancements that will shape our products and progress for the next 25 years"

ClearOne Appoints of Bormann Marketing

ClearOne partners in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana will now receive a higher level of sales and service support with the appointment of Bormann Marketing as the new sales representative firm for the rapidly growing sales region, according to ClearOne’s VP of sales for the Americas, Jim Mergens.

Bormann Marketing is a Professional Manufacturers Representative for the commercial and residential audiovisual industry covering the 13 Central states of the United States including Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas. Bormann Marketing’s main office is in Hopkins, MN with satellite offices in Austin, Houston, Chicago, Dallas, Kansas City, and St Louis.

The company’s goal is to serve its customers beyond their expectations, to work together to build their business and in so doing, build Bormann Marketing. They work to provide friendly, prompt and accurate service and information and pay close attention to the details. In order to keep pace with expected future sales growth, the company now has a staff of 17 people to best serve customers. They invest in the latest technology to maintain an up-to-date database of customers, manufacturers and the products they sell.

PK Sound Welcomed Colorado’s Valkyrie Productions to Its Partner Network

PK Sound, the robotic line array company, has welcomed Colorado’s Valkyrie Productions to its partner network with the company’s investment in a T8 robotic line source system. Featuring PK’s patented multi-axis robotic technology, the T8 system offers precise control of vertical and horizontal dispersion, allowing the Valkyrie team to optimize acoustic coverage in virtually any environment. ACT Entertainment is the exclusive distributor of PK Sound in North America.

Valkyrie’s initial investment includes twelve T8 robotic line source modules and ten T18 intelligent subwoofers along with a PK Cell modular touring rack, which combines power, signal and data distribution in a globally standardized package. The company wasted little time putting the system to work in a myriad of deployments, from corporate and trade events to regional music festivals, including as a monitoring solution for Slander’s sold-out engagement at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater. 

Humly Strengthens Bond with Exertis Brand

Humly continues to aggressively build out its global channel partner network to bring its brand of workplace solutions to more countries worldwide. Now, dedicated Exertis businesses will exclusively represent Humly for distribution services in Italy, Portugal, and Spain, effective immediately.

The announcement comes several months following Exertis Pro AV Canada’s announcement that it would exclusively distribute Humly workplace solutions throughout Canada. Exertis Pro AV Italy, Exertis Pro AV Portugal, and Exertis Pro AV Spain will provide sales, marketing, business development and customer support services in their respective countries for Humly’s premium hardware and software solutions. 

The entire range of Humly Workplace Solutions (Humly Room Display, Humly Booking Device, Humly Wayfinding, Humly Reservations, Humly Visitor, and Humly Floor Plan), and the associated Humly Control Panel for centralized management and monitoring, are ideal complements to existing AV solutions offered through each Exertis Pro AV business’s extensive brand portfolio. That includes two new recent accessories for the Humly Booking Device introduced earlier this month at ISE 2024 that support automatic desk height adjustments, occupancy sensing, and PoE powering.

Vizrt Names ComLine Latest European Distributor

Vizrt has named ComLine, a German based, AV and IT (Information Technology) focused distributor, has joined the company’s growing list of channel partners. 

With the convergence of the Pro AV and broadcast sectors, more media companies, organizations, and creatives are looking for tools that will sharpen and expand their video content creation abilities, in an affordable way.

ComLine provides technology, expertise, and support to resellers, enterprises and entrepreneurs looking to stay relevant, future-proof their workflows, and grow in the ever-evolving digital world.  

It's ISE 2024 week. Can't make it to Barcelona? Overwhelmed with where to start on the show floor at the Fira Barcelona, Gran Via? Don't worry, we got you covered. 

Today, checkout five new products from Atlona, ClearOne, Barix, Humly, and Origin Acoustics. 

[10 Things of Note for Traveling to Barcelona for ISE 2024]

Atlona to Unveil Velocity Keypad Controller

Atlona has introduced an alternative to touch panels for AV control in smaller spaces and less complex applications. Now available in two wall mount form factors, the AT-VKP-8E provides IP-based system control in environments where a simple and straightforward keypad interface is preferred, such as standard classrooms and small meeting spaces. The VKP-8E will receive its global debut at booth 2Q300.

The VPK-8E features eight buttons that can be configured to control display on/off, source selection, audio volume levels, and other system functions. For enhanced customization, it includes a 2.7-inch high-contrast electronic paper (e-paper) display. Users can associate custom text and icons with specific buttons, as well as dynamically navigate between different display layouts. RGB LEDs for each button and a multistep level indicator can be used to indicate system status. The PoE LAN connection provides power to the controller and the ability to control devices over Ethernet. An RS-232 port is included for serial control for legacy devices. 

The VKP-8E is set up using the new Atlona Cloud online configuration and management platform. Atlona Cloud provides an intuitive interface for defining the e-paper label/icon and LED color for each button as well as macros for controlling room technology added from an extensive database of Atlona and third-party drivers. For users that prefer not to start from scratch, pre-configured templates are available for Atlona’s most popular switchers.

ClearOne to Debut DIALOG 20 USB 2-Channel Wireless Microphone System

Visitors to booth 2N150 will see the debut of ClearOne's new DIALOG 20 USB microphone. The flexible, high quality 2-channel Wireless Microphone System features less than four milliseconds of audio latency that effectively enables hybrid meetings with local sound reinforcement.

The solution is ideal for hybrid meetings that require a dedicated presenter microphone and a shared audience microphone with simultaneous sound reinforcement, such as any type of hybrid training or presentation session. The DIALOG 20 USB works in spaces up to 2500 square feet. There are lower cost two-channel wireless microphones on the market, but they can’t effectively be used for local sound reinforcement either due to their high latency that causes a presenter to hear a delayed echo of their voice when the output from these low-cost systems is amplified into the local room, or due to low audio quality. The DIALOG 20 USB solves these problems due to its low-latency design and full bandwidth professional audio quality.

Easy to set up, the system features a complete range of Handheld, Boundary, and Gooseneck microphone options, as well as a Beltpack with Lanyard, Headset, or Lavalier mics. It is powered by frequency-hopping spread-spectrum technology with no frequency license restrictions world-wide. A built-in auto-scan feature automatically finds open channels for optimal reception. Standards-based encryption ensures a secure link for wireless audio, and wide audio bandwidth provides superior speech clarity.

Barix to Introduce First Native Dante Hardware Solution

The new IP Former TPA400 Native Dante decoder/amplifier from Barix will be on display at booth 7C400. The new solutions provide ultra-low-latency delivery for synchronized audio playout across many end points. 

Barix introduced the original IP Former TPA400 to help customers transform legacy speakers into IP speakers by simply connecting the ultra-compact device to any loudspeaker. Its design provides an IP network interface, audio stream decoder and amplifier front-end for a two- to eight-ohm speaker, with PoE for streamlined installation. 

The IP Former TPA400 Native Dante is built to receive a single-channel Dante stream and play within ten milliseconds (10ms) of end-to-end latency, enabling reliable synchronous playout across many locations. Customers can route audio directly through Dante Controller, supporting a very simplified configuration, while the Dante-specific firmware facilitates integration with diverse audio systems. For example, the IP Former TPA400 Native Dante can serve interior facility spaces while higher power Dante amplifiers can serve larger outdoor areas, ensuring consistent latency management across all end points. This makes the solution ideal for installation on large corporate and higher ed campuses, as well as within hospitality settings including large hotel and resort properties.

Humly Debuts Appspace Integration

Humly will demonstrate how Appspace workplace experience solutions seamlessly integrate with Humly’s two hardware solutions, Humly Booking Device and Humly Room Display. ISE 2024 will be the global debut of Appspace integration with Humly Booking Device. Humly exhibits at booth 2W500.

The integration provides businesses with enhanced flexibility and efficiency for on-the-fly desk booking that delivers on the promise of a seamless, return-to-office experience. Visitors to the Humly stand will see demonstrations of Humly and Appspace integrations in simulated workspace environments, including the ability to book a desk through Appspace space reservation software. These bookings will automatically appear on the local Humly Booking Device, which will be mounted beneath an adjacent desktop surface on the stand. Humly will also demonstrate its proven integration with Appspace space reservation software for Humly Room Display, which provides the same booking functionality and immediate presentation of booking details for meeting rooms.

Origin Acoustics Introduces Origin PRO Speaker and Amplifier Solutions 

Origin Acoustics will introduce its Origin PRO line of commercial-grade speakers and amplifiers at ISE 2024. 

A complete line of high-performance Origin PRO speakers is available in three versatile form factors—in-ceiling, surface mount, and pendants—in three sizes, 5, 6, and 8-inch, as well as an 8-inch subwoofer for in-ceiling and pendant options. All Origin PRO models include certifications required by the commercial installation market. 

Additionally, Origin PRO is set to introduce a line of full-matrix DSP-enabled amplifiers designed for the utmost in reliability, efficiency, and flexibility in multifaceted commercial installation projects in Q2 2024. They allow for two and four-channel options with power output ranging from 60W-750W per channel, and power both low-impedance and 70v/100v speakers. 

An intuitive web app is built into all Origin Pro Amplifiers for easy system setup and customization by delivering DSP configuration options and tuning features, including multi-zone setup, input mixing, priority and ducking, restriction, input and output EQ, S/PDIF output routing, high-pass filter, speaker presets, delay, Sine generator, and more. Origin PRO amplifiers offer custom-made drivers for the most widely specified control and automation system brands, including Control4, RTI, Symmetrix, QSC, AMX, Crestron, and Elan.

Measuring almost 8 inches square, the ClearOne Chat 150 BT is not a small speakerphone. That’s because it’s designed to be a group speakerphone as opposed to a personal speakerphone. With its size and sophisticated design, the Chat 150 BT is a better fit for the executive office or conference room than the home office.

[ClearOne Executive Q&A: Change of Plans]

Not every speakerphone is the same. The Chat 150 BT has some advantages over some of its more compact counterparts. Sure, it has a USB-C port, so you can connect and power it directly from your laptop or plug it into the wall with a charging block. But it also has an honest-to-goodness power input port, so you can have a dedicated AC power supply—and you don’t have to rely on an internal battery or USB-C.

The onboard controls are fancy—no raised buttons here, just icons. You can control the volume, mute, manage your Bluetooth connectivity, and answer or hang up calls (currently only available via USB but future functionality is in development). The presentation is very stylish, though the controls can attract fingerprints.

LED indicators for volume, Bluetooth, and mic status are slightly raised and certainly bright enough to be seen across the conference room table. Three LEDs (paired with the three recessed onboard mics) turn bright red instead of blue when you mute the mic, so it’s easy to know when you can speak freely. 

Pairing the Chat 150 BT via Bluetooth is a simple matter of pressing the icon and pairing it when the LED flashes. It also remembers previous devices, so reconnecting to my iPhone was a snap. When paired, the Bluetooth LED turns blue; it flashes every five seconds or so when in use. 

One of the perks of a speakerphone is that you can use it to listen to music. The audio on the ClearOne is good for a speakerphone, though it could use more bass. I played “Get Him Back!” from Olivia Rodrigo (yeah, I’m hip), which has a distorted bass line but sounds downright tame on the Chat 150 BT. The Bluetooth audio (of the same song) loses some of the fidelity, but it’s still perfectly acceptable for an office environment while waiting for a meeting to start. 

[SCN Hybrid World: Expert Insights and 16 Speakerphones to Know]

Just be careful with your sources. The Chat 150 BT was more than happy to play music simultaneously from my iPhone and my laptop, so make sure you know what’s been paired and that you only have one device in use during your meeting.

Remember, this is a speakerphone. It’s not going to mimic the audio quality of a headset mic or directional condenser mic. That said, the Chat 150 BT sounds … fine. Compared to other speakerphones, my voice sounded a bit flat and tinny. Certainly intelligible and plenty of range, but not as full as I’d prefer.

I have been known to put some equipment through unreasonable tests, and that tradition continued with the Chat 150 BT. If you want to test the noise cancelling intelligence of a speakerphone, I say you use it while there is demolition going on in the next room. I could barely hear myself over the noise—but no one on the other side of the videoconference could hear a thing. That was beyond impressive.

While the speaker and microphones are serviceable more than stunning, there’s plenty to like about the Chat 150 BT. The presentation is very professional (hey, looks matter), Bluetooth pairing is a snap, power options are much appreciated, and the noise cancellation capabilities are amazing.

ClearOne is now providing integration partners and end-user customers with added flexibility in system connectivity with the introduction of its new Versa USB22D Dante adapter. 

Enabling users to directly connect any computer to a Dante network without first requiring software installation, the new Versa USB22D adapter can be used with any audio application for playback or capture and is thus ideal for a wide range of small to mid-sized meeting spaces including executive offices, conference rooms, classrooms and lecture halls for Bring Your Own Meeting (BYOM) audio and video conferencing and in-room presentations.

[16 Speakerphones and Expert Advice for Your Next Install]

“Fast, flexible and reliable connectivity is more important than ever before in today’s media centric world of presentations,” ClearOne CEO Derek Graham said. “The new Versa USB22D adapter makes it easier than ever for our partners to serve their customers with a solution that enables direct connectivity of their computers with any Dante enabled network.”

The Versa USB22D adapter supports two input and two output channels of audio, allowing PCs and mobile devices to play and capture audio with Dante-enabled devices over a standard IP network. Users can automatically discover and configure the new product using Audinate Dante Controller software.

Featuring built-in support for Dante Audio over IP and AES67 RTP transport formats, the adapter also includes cables to connect to a USB C host port and a USB Type A host port.

[The Integration Guide to Dante-Enabled AV 2023]

Power with the USB port on a computer or with a PoE (Power over Ethernet) switch — a separate power supply is not needed.

The USB22D delivers bit-perfect audio reproduction, super-low latency, and sample-accurate synchronization across the entire Dante network. What’s more, the Dante Domain Manager ready adapter works seamlessly with Dante-enabled devices including ClearOne DSP mixers, Wireless Microphones, and Beamforming Microphones. It connects any computer to the ClearOne BMA 360D through a Dante network.

The market for speakerphones is evolving. No longer strictly confined to meeting spaces and videoconferencing in the office, speakerphone technology has had to account for the hybrid world in every sector. While many workers are back in the office, many are still home, at least a portion of the time. Instead of having to pop on a headset every time a call comes in, a speakerphone is certainly a nice accessory.

[SCN Hybrid World: How to Make Room Scheduling Easy]

“In the era of burgeoning remote and hybrid work arrangements, the importance of seamless communication in virtual meetings has surged," explained Joel R. Cruz, director of marketing for BZBGEAR. "This entails the need for effective videoconferencing and voice calls for workers operating offsite. The convenience offered by an all-in-one device combining a microphone and speaker, coupled with user-friendly plug-and-play functionalities, significantly streamlines the dynamics of remote work."

So, what should you look for in speakerphones in the home office, conference room, and beyond?

Evolution of Audio Quality

As hybrid meetings change—from huddle rooms to board rooms to open spaces—there are several factors that should be considered in finding the ideal speakerphone. The ability to expand in range is one of those important considerations.

Take the AVer FONE540, for example. "It has a 15-foot pickup radius, but you could daisy-chain two other ones with a network cable to be able to cover a large room," noted Carl Harvell, director of product marketing for AVer. "It has the expandability option to be able to throw one in for a small conference room, but if you have a large conference room, you could chain three of them and then have that single USB connection going back to the PC."

It may sound like a no-brainer, but audio quality is rather important when choosing a speakerphone. That's why understanding how a device's audio capture technology works within the required space is pivotal for your use case.

[SCN Hybrid World Review: 3 Reasons to Love the Audeze Conference Speaker]

“At the core of each contemporary huddle room or conference room lies a delicate interplay between design and technology," said Cruz. "Amidst the multitude of factors influencing this combination, the arrangement takes precedence, particularly with regard to the audio capture capabilities of the speakerphone. Imagine a speakerphone endowed with an impressive 360-degree voice pickup range. Positioning it at the center of the conference table, with participants encircling it, can yield optimal results. This convergence of design and functionality generates an environment where the speaker's voice is faithfully captured, transcending geographical barriers."

One factor that always makes headlines is when a device gets certified by reputable UCC companies like Zoom or Microsoft. According to Ken Eagle, CEO of Hall Technologies, a certified speakerphone ensures better audio quality, compatibility with videoconferencing software, ease of use, and reliability.

"It lets you know that you are working with those vendors in creating a product that meets their criteria, their standard," added Harvell. “People get a lot of confidence with that; it's been run through a lab, run through tests. It is that peace of mind and confidence that gives end users that confidence that it has been tested out, so they don't have to do as much benchmark testing themselves."

As Eagle also points out, it's not always just about the speakerphone. Pay attention to the size of the room the speakerphone will be used in, which includes the number of seats at the table. The location of the room is also an important factor, because with greater space comes greater chance for disruptive noises. Plus, budget should always be a consideration, as speakerphones pricing can vary widely.

AI Is Here

Artificial intelligence is the buzzword everywhere, and it's no different in the world of Pro AV. AI is already playing a pivotal role in several products, such as auto-tracking videoconferencing cameras. What role does AI have in the next age of speakerphone technologies?

"AI-powered noise cancellation is now standard on many speakerphones, helping to reduce background noise and improve audio quality," said Eagle. "This is especially important for hybrid workers who may be participating in calls from noisy environments, such as coffee shops or home offices."

[SCN Hybrid World: Better Heard, Not Seen]

"Artificial intelligence has introduced distinctive voice localization features to speakerphones," added Cruz. "Essentially, this technology tracks the current speaker's voice in real time, enabling speakerphones to deliver clear and succinct audio, even when the speaker is active or situated in a bustling environment with background noise."

"AI should reflect human intelligence," added Harvell. " You have to be able to figure out who the active speaker is and intelligently do that, because if there's multiple people talking in the conference room or they're having sidebar conversations, you don't want to pick those guys up."

Eagle also mentioned some "cool new features" to look out for, including real-time translation to allow people to communicate in different languages, automatic transcription, and virtual assistants to control a speakerphone using your voice to take calls, adjust settings, and more without having to touch the device.

There is no shortage of speakerphones to choose from, so which one is right for you? SCN can help start your search with selected models from 16 manufacturers.

AnkerWork SR500 Speakerphone 

The AnkerWork SR500 is ideal for both conference rooms and busy open areas thanks to the company’s VoiceRadar 2.0 technology, which uses deep learning to isolate voices from background noise. The speakerphone can accommodate several room sizes with up to five SR500 speakerphones linked together for larger rooms. With an all-in-one conference speaker and microphone, the SR500 picks up voices up to 16 feet away and syncs up with UCC software, including Zoom and Microsoft Teams.

AVer FONE540

The FONE540 is a daisy-chainable USB speakerphone that enhances audio conferencing experiences in personal workspaces, huddle rooms, and medium-to-large conference rooms. Easy to plug in, install, and use, the FONE540 boasts flexible connectivity, noise suppression, and three-way calls. The FONE540 silences noise to guarantee audio clarity to free participants from traditional audio distraction. Additionally, the FONE540 promotes remote collaboration and conversation by implementing double-talk detection.

beyerdynamic SPACE MAX

The beyerdynamic SPACE MAX wireless Bluetooth speakerphone combines high-quality speech intelligibility and enhanced audio quality for speech reproduction, multimedia, and music. Whether it’s in a large meeting room, huddle room, or individual office, it’s an ideal plug-and-play solution for hybrid working. Equipped with 360-degree SMART MIC TECHNOLOGY—which automatically detects voice or noise signals while suppressing unwanted reverberation, echo, or feedback—25 hours of battery life, and IP64 certification to protect against dust and splash water, SPACE MAX is a speakerphone for professionals on the go.

Biamp Parlé TTM-XEX

The Parlé TTM-XEX is a low-profile tabletop microphone designed to extend the range of the Parlé TTM-X, an audio-bridging-over-ethernet (ABV) microphone for use in Tesira systems. The TTM-XEX includes Beamtracking technology with four 90-degree zones, providing full coverage of the meeting space. The Beamtracking performance is delivered via an unobtrusive design that can be either ceiling mounted (the Parlé TCM-XEX version) or placed on a tabletop. The TTM-XEX actively tracks and intelligently mixes conversations from around the table, allowing far-end participants to experience the conversation as they would a face-to-face meeting.

BZBGEAR BG-OMNITALK-PRO

Offering crystal-clear communication, the BG-OMNITALK-PRO boasts an impressive 360-degree voice pickup range, extending up to nearly 20 feet. Its four-microphone array ensures every participant is heard with utmost clarity. With plug-and-play connectivity via USB-C or Bluetooth, it seamlessly integrates with various devices and communication apps such as Zoom and Skype for Business. The built-in 8000mAh battery provides 12 hours of music playback and 14 hours of talk time. Designed to accommodate gatherings of up to 15 attendees, its compact design, coupled with advanced DSP technology and universal compatibility, establishes it as an efficient instrument for fostering productive conferences.

ClearOne CHAT 150 BT

With simple and instant connection to personal computers, mobile devices or Bluetooth-enabled desk phones, the CHAT 150 BT group speakerphone with USB and Bluetooth connectivity provides users with an upgrade to home offices, executive offices, and mid-sized meeting rooms. Featuring a steerable microphone array with first-mic priority, the CHAT 150 BT intelligently activates the microphone closest to the person speaking, reducing interference from ambient noise. It retains the leading features of the original CHAT 150 speakerphone—including advanced noise cancellation, full duplex distributed echo cancellation, and Automatic Level Control (ALC) algorithms—to ensure highly intelligible, natural audio capture and playback.

Crestron Flex Pods

Crestron Flex Pods tabletop wireless audio solution provides customers and channels with even more choice in how they deploy Crestron microphone and speaker solutions across an organization. Crestron Flex Pods include built-in microphone, speaker, and audio controls that wirelessly connect to UC room solutions such as a Microsoft Teams Room. No matter where a user is in the space, Crestron Flex Pods can be moved to ensure optimal range and reach, so everyone can hear and be heard clearly. In-room participants experience consistent audio levels as volume levels are synchronized across all Crestron Flex Pods in the room.

EPOS EXPAND 80

This scalable Bluetooth speakerphone unites up to 16 in-room participants, which are heard clearly through six adaptive, beamforming microphones that isolate voices from room reverb and ambient noise. An ultra-low distortion speaker in a unique suspended speaker box provides rich, natural sound. Conference room attendees can expand the reach of their meetings with up to two speakerphones for larger meetings. Conference calls are easily setup in seconds with multiple connectivity options, intuitive user interface, and one-touch access to a preferred Voice Assistant.

Hall Technologies Odyssey

Odyssey is a meeting collaboration system that includes mic, speaker, and a built-in presentation switch for a high-quality audio and video experience, whether across the room or across the globe. Odyssey works seamlessly with all soft-codec conferencing solutions and is compatible for Windows, Mac OS, and Android, as well as UC platforms like Zoom, WebEx, and Teams. The audio includes an omnidirectional microphone array with echo cancellation and noise reduction paired with an advanced 10W conference speaker. Presentation options include a USB-hub (resolution up to 1080p@60Hz), HDMI (up to 4K@30Hz), HDBaseT, and wireless casting.

Jabra Speak2 75

The Jabra Speak2 75 is engineered specifically to meet the needs of hybrid working. The professional speakerphone features a custom-designed Microphone Quality Indicator and a 360-degree light ring that shows users how well their voice is being picked up by the microphones, giving users the reassurance of true professionalism from wherever they may be working. In addition, the speakerphone includes an advanced full-range 65mm speaker, offering a dramatically more powerful audio experience and ultimately resulting in much more efficient and productive meetings.

MAXHUB BM35 Speakerphone

MAXHUB’s BM35 is a powerful, portable, Bluetooth speakerphone that provides crystal-clear audio and disruption-free sound for any size meeting space. With a 19-foot pick-up range, AI noise cancellation, and full-duplex audio, the BM35 transforms any room into a modern meeting space. Certified for Zoom, the BM35 offers flexibility and easy installation. Connect the BM35 easily to any PC, with a variety of connection options to choose from including a Bluetooth dongle, plug-and-play, or NFC.  

Poly Sync 40

The Poly Sync 40 USB Bluetooth smart speakerphone is designed for flexible and huddle workspaces. Everyone can hear and be heard without missing a word with a multimicrophone array. The speakerphone is battery-powered, so teams can use it anywhere in the room. Pair two units together for larger meetings with louder volume, more microphones, and wider voice pickup. Smart and simple, the Poly Sync 40 is just as flexible as the space it sits in.

Sennheiser TeamConnect Intelligent Speaker

Sennheiser’s TeamConnect Intelligent Speaker is certified for Microsoft Teams. With this solution, Sennheiser supports smart, focused, meetings for up to 10 people, whether participants are in the room or remote. It features an omnidirectional speaker that covers more than an 11-foot radius and seven integrated beamforming microphones to achieve enhanced sound quality. Through the TeamConnect Intelligent Speaker, Microsoft Teams provides an automatic meeting transcript in real time, identifying the individual people speaking by name, if they have enrolled their voices. This provides an inclusive meeting experience for remote and hard-of-hearing participants.

Shure Stem Table

Part of Shure’s Stem Ecosystem, Stem Table is a high-quality conferencing speakerphone that turns any environment into a professional conferencing space. Firmware updates have delivered improvements in clarity, more consistent speech levels, and enhanced intelligibility for more natural communication for end users. These enhancements to Stem Table yielded improved double-talk performance. Additional updates have improved the installation experience with new Link-Local functionality, a new view to RoomDesign, and API for third-party control for IT professionals.

Yamaha Unified Communications YVC-200

Offering USB, Bluetooth, and NFC connectivity options, the Yamaha UC YVC-200 is an efficient and effective plug-and-play device that can be used in an array of use cases, from the classroom to the huddle room. The compact YVC-200 fits in any handheld bag or backpack. It is ideal for hybrid workers who are working remotely, putting clear outgoing and inbound audio at their fingertips. The speakerphone also offers 10 hours of wireless battery life and a headphone jack for private listening.

Yealink CP965

The Yealink CP965 is designed for medium and large-sized conference rooms. Based on Android 11, the CP965 provides an easy user interface for both Microsoft Teams and Zoom (the speakerphone is already Microsoft Teams certified with Zoom certification in the works). The CP965 has a 12-microphone array armed with Yealink’s Optima HD Voice technology, providing a crystal-clear voice calling experience, as well as another microphone for noise cancellation. Additionally, the CP965 easily connects to mobile devices via Bluetooth or USB to accommodate a variety of UC hybrid meeting modes.

The Pro AV Best in Market (BiM) 2023 award winners for AV Technology have been announced, with 31 companies recognized in the inaugural program. The BiMs provide companies with the opportunity to highlight products that were new or newly upgraded within the last 12 months. Entries were judged based on a range of criteria by independent, third-party judges and editorial teams. Additional BiMs were presented by other Future AV brands, Sound & Video Contractor and Systems Contractor News, which had initially created the awards program during the pandemic for companies that were unable to attend live events.

Check out the AVT winners and comments from our judges. 

22Miles, Wayfinding AI Assistant

Getting people to their destination makes or breaks the customer experience and 22Miles takes wayfinding to a personal level that transforms the user's event experience. 22Miles is changing the game and it will be exciting to see how they continue to develop voice, AI, and augmented reality.

7thSense, R-Series 10

7thSense's R-Series hardware is sleek and powerful. With a year of performance out in the field, the hardware has proven it can fulfill a variety of production services. It's also impressive that they understand the value of the hardware as a standalone product with their willingness to ship it without any 7thSense software on board.

7thSense, Juggler

7thSense knows how to balance all your pixel needs as the impressive Juggler hardware suite packs power and precision in a petite form factor. The ability to combine multiple Jugglers to create more complex environments and establish redundant systems is a value-add when failure is not an option. While there are many options for users to consider in the market today 7thSense has a proven history both in the US and around the world.

Avocor L Series

The Avocor L-Series is a great option for users looking to deploy 105-inch 21:9 aspect ratio displays into collaborative spaces and they provide value to users in providing both touch- and non-touch-enabled displays. The overall form factor and presentation are clean and the ability to use Microsoft Teams Front Row is just one way to fully appreciate the way this display can transform a meeting space.

BenQ, LK935 Business Projector

The BenQ LK935 Business Projector really sets the stage for an affordable collaboration suite. A projector that can activate 21:9 aspect ratio content and Microsoft Teams Front Row for 25-50 percent of the cost of smaller flat panel display options on the market shows that projection technology is not dead and BenQ is putting a lot on the table.

Brompton Technology, TrueLight

Brompton improves the LED experience with processing to activate extra white emitters to improve overall spectrum and performance in virtual productions. The ability to dynamically calibrate across panels allows users to maximize the performance of the direct view content in ways that other systems fall short.

Clear Digital, Vue LED Posters

Clear Digital's Vue LED Poster product offering is another appealing option for users to distinguish themselves, their products, or support their brand identity. While this concept of arraying LED panels together to make a larger display is not new Clear Digital has presented one of the better form factors and feature sets on the market.

Clear Digital, Evo Roll Series

The EVO Roll series shows that effective digital signage can be simple and unique. Clean lines, battery-powered, water resistant, and a unique form factor are a recipe for success.

ClearOne, DIALOG UVHF Wireless Microphone

The ClearOne Dialog wireless system is a strong microphone solution for complex environments as the support of UHF and VHF frequencies ensures end users will have multiple channels available to use. The 12-hour battery pack also adds to the convenience factor when it comes to business use in demanding workflows.

Clevertouch by Boxlight, CleverHub

Clevertouch offers users an exceptional platform for collaboration if you add CleverHub within your deployments. The various forms of collaborative connectivity and built-in digital signage features are strong offerings but the CleverConnect option to have 50 devices share content redefines what can be achieved in the classroom or meeting room.

Clevertouch by Boxlight, Clevershare

The sleek integration of Clevershare into the ecosystem is a win on so many levels. The ability to use an app or a dongle can help transform the teaching environment while the administrative controls limit bad actors from interfering with your class time.

Crestron AirMedia Connect Adaptor

The strength of the AirMedia remains Crestron's commitment to security and longstanding history of bringing reliable products to market. The integration and deployment tools also add value to larger deployments.

Digital Projection, Radiance LED EV Series MicroLED

Digital Projection adjusts to the shifts in the market to direct view displays with a stunning micro-LED solution in the Radiance series. This Radiance line really fits the bill for many installs that benefit from DP's legendary color fidelity to woo customers without the need for lenses.

Epson, PowerLite 810E Extreme Short Throw with 4K Enhancement

5,000 lumens of laser light driving a 21:9 aspect ratio with a screen size of up to 160-inches creates the opportunity for a unique user experience. The feature set of the PowerLite 810E provides a host of connectivity options while the ability to do split screens adds value for collaboration.

Epson, BrightLink 770Fi Interactive Ultra Short Throw Lamp-Free Laser Display

The BrightLink 770Fi 1080p 3LCD Interactive Ultra Short Throw Lamp-Free Laser Display lives up to its name delivering 4,100 lumens and a 100-inch interactive screen size. Epson continues to champion the 3LCD technology but uses a laser light source to extend product life and reduce operating noise and the potential for downtime due to lamp failures. The ability to choose between 21:9 and 16:9 aspect ratios allows users to stretch the canvas to meet the needs of various learning environments.

Extron, MGP 641 xi

The MGP 641 xi multi-window processor is a winning combination of Extron's previous generations of hardware with modern flexible outputs supporting DPT, DPT3, SDI, and HDBaseT output capability. Other manufacturers compete with aspects of this windowing processor but Extron delivers a more robust offering in the three models of the MGP 641xi processor.

Haivision, Command 360

The Haivision Command 360 video platform is a strong product offering in the market and the quick deployment and network security are significant value adds.

JVC Professional Video, KM-IP8S4 CONNECTED CAM vMix Studio Switcher

The KM-IP8S4 CONNECTED CAM vMix Studio Switcher is a powerhouse of a system for under $5500 and I think the strength of this system is its support for traditional SDI signals as well as network-based NDI.

L-Acoustics, L Series

L-Acoustics presents a great audio system with the new L-Series. The angle-less system and the need for fewer cabinets simplify installation and deliver classic L-Acoustics performance. While designed for long throws there are a number of applications where these 10-degree vertical cabinet arrays may change the way integrators design systems.  

LED Studio, EDGE Series

The LED Studio EDGE Series is a strong option for retrofitting existing video walls with its native 16:9 aspect ratio design. The strength of the application for me is the optional EDGE Connect module that eliminates the need for a third-party video wall processor.

Matrox Video, Matrox ConvertIP SRST

So many users have adopted HDBaseT over the years and now that IP is ready to take over we've been lacking a tool such as the Matrox ConvertIP SRST transmitter/receiver. When you need to push the boundaries beyond the limitations of HDBaseT Matrox provides a standards-based IPMX solution that allows you to reliably distribute signals further with confidence.

Media Resources, TruView Flexible dvLED

TruView Flex builds upon the 145K installations they already have in the field with options to bend and wrap direct-view LED displays for indoor and outdoor applications. With 50K customers already, the new Flex line presents opportunities to help clients create new visual experiences.

Megapixel VR, HELIOS LED Processing Platform & 100G ST2110 Input

The HELIOS LED Processing Platform packs 8K of video processing into a single rack unit configured via a software-less browser based platform. This innovative approach to control and powerful hardware will allow users to scale back required hardware while scaling video effortlessly on any large digital canvas.

Owl Labs, Owl Bar

The OWL Bar is a welcome addition to their existing 360 degree camera/speaker solution and the ability to switch between camera views using the operating system is what makes this ecosystem so strong.

Parker Group, AVenue

Parker Group's AVenue is an impressive service that allows you to capture and record up to 50 AV streams and securely redistribute the materials using its media management server. 

Pure Fi, Pure Fi Pro HDMI 2.1 Active Optical Cable

Finally, an optical HDMI cable designed for installation in conduit maximizing performance at a value price of $360 per run.

Salamander Designs, Arc Table

The Salamander Designs Arc table is an extremely functional and beautiful piece of furniture for your collaboration suite. The build quality is strong and the various finishes allow you to match your environment. Extra features such as the ability to integrate wireless charging are presented in a much cleaner way than other tables on the market.

Sennheiser, TeamConnect Ceiling Medium

Sennheiser TeamConnect is a product that you won't notice once it's installed but you'll benefit from its presence in your environment. The audio demo of Team Connect shows the product excels in environments that other systems can't handle in terms of room size or background noise. When it comes to ceiling-mounted microphone solutions in collaboration spaces the TeamConnect 2 system might just be the best on the market.

SiliconCore, 1.9mm XR LED Video Wall

In my opinion, SiliconCore has long manufactured the most stunning direct-view displays in the industry and the new 1.9mm XR LED Display boasts an impressive suite of features to lead this year's class of virtual production panels. While not every production environment needs to achieve 240Hz it can be immensely helpful in some workflows and the combination of visual clarity, color fidelity, and impressive refresh rates demonstrates that SiliconCore is still at the top of its game.

Sony Electronics, BZ40L Series of Professional BRAVIA Displays

Having deployed a number of Sony Bravia Pro displays this past year I have been immensely pleased with the performance and capabilities of Sony's signage platform. One of the areas that was lacking in previous displays was anti-glare performance and Sony addresses this area significantly in their new BZ40L series.

ViewSonic LDS135-151 Direct View LED Display Solution Kit

If you're looking to deploy a large format direct view LED display you can't get any easier than ViewSonic LDS135-151. What sets the ViewSonic LDS135-151 apart is the folding design that allows the unit to be packed into a flight case for rugged and reliable transport.

At the risk of sounding like a broken record,  AV/IT technology managers, directors, and other decision-makers must install new or upgrade audio solutions in any space that isn’t optimized for speech intelligibility—on the near and far side.

Louder is no longer good enough when microphone and speaker technologies have advanced so that participants in the back of the room can hear as clearly as those in the front of the room. In today’s hybrid world, it’s imperative for participants at the far end of video conference and collaboration session to hear and be heard by every person in a meeting space.

Below are 21 outstanding audio products to help you make some sound decisions. 

Sennheiser’s TeamConnect (TC) Bar Solutions

Sennheiser’s TeamConnect (TC) Bar Solutions deliver trusted Sennheiser audio quality to every meeting with the TC Bar S and TC Bar M. Designed to maximize meeting and collaboration spaces, the TC Bar Solutions will easily integrate with your favorite meeting platform and can be further enhanced with compatible products. Featuring the latest advances in meeting technology, like the 4K Ultra HD camera that comes with AI-powered autoframing and person tiling, the TC Bars enable remote participants to clearly see and hear everyone in the room, so even the smallest gestures and facial expressions are conveyed to maximize meeting inclusion and engagement.

Audix’s M45 Shortgun 

Audix’s M45 Shortgun miniaturized shotgun condenser installed ceiling mic is able to cover up to 150 square feet of area with remarkable sensitivity and exceptionally clear sound. It is ideal for use in corporate- or educational classroom-style setups, boardrooms, and conference rooms, as well as larger lecture venues and hospitals. 

Highly versatile and amiable, it features a low-profile, swivel-and-pivot base for convenient positioning. The M45 is optimized for vocal intelligibility and offers high sensitivity of 98 mV / Pa at 1 kHz, a maximum SPL of >124 dB, an integrated preamp, immunity from RF interference, and is easy to install in a 1.5-inch hole with no additional tools required. 

Shure’s MXA902 Integrated Conferencing Ceiling Array

Shure’s MXA902 Integrated Conferencing Ceiling Array, part of the Microflex Advance ceiling array microphone platform, is the world’s first with integrated loudspeaker and IntelliMix DSP for small- and medium-sized meeting rooms. For IT managers and AV professionals seeking reliable audio solutions that are easy to configure out of the box, the MXA902 delivers premium audio capture and reproduction with minimal setup required. The ceiling-mounted audio solution is complete with a state-of-the-art array microphone for enhanced directional voice capture and an integrated wide-dispersion loudspeaker for natural-sounding far-end speech. The MXA902 is a bold new solution that delivers microphone, loudspeaker, and DSP technology in one device.

EPOS’ IMPACT 1000 Headset

EPOS’ IMPACT 1000 Headset leverages industry-leading speech intelligibility technology. By harnessing machine learning technology, the IMPACT 1000 works to identify which sounds should be suppressed in a user’s environment and which sounds should be enhanced. Together, this first-of-its-kind solution addresses the challenges of modern work environments, empowering workers in open-plan offices to block out unwanted noises and create disturbance-free work experiences for both sides of a call.

EPOS machine learning technology scans user environments 32,000 times per second to suppress disruptive sounds, and enhances desirable audio to ensure only the relevant sounds slip through to the person the user is talking to.

Atlona’s AT-CAP-SP100 Speakerphone

Atlona’s AT-CAP-SP100 Speakerphone is a USB and Bluetooth speakerphone designed for use with popular conferencing and unified communications platforms including Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Cisco, and many more. Combining microphone and speaker audio in a single, elegant enclosure, the CAP-SP100 provides 360-degree coverage to capture voices within a radius of up to 16 feet. Its six-element microphone array focuses audio pickup while suppressing background noises, allowing individual meeting participants to be heard loudly and clearly. USB-C, Bluetooth, and analog audio connectivity ensure compatibility with a wide array of computers and mobile devices, while the included battery allows operation up to eight hours without a power connection.

Vaddio’s EasyIP CeilingMIC/AMP D

Vaddio’s EasyIP CeilingMIC/AMP D is an in-ceiling audio solution with an overhead microphone and a built-in speaker amplifier—both featuring Dante networked audio. The EasyIP CeilingMIC/AMP D features a PoE+ network connection, an overhead microphone, and one powered speaker output, making it a convenient and cost-effective two-in-one solution for incorporating a microphone and a passive speaker with an EasyIP or Dante audio system. Dante makes installing any-size project easy by providing digital signal transmission over the network. The EasyIP CeilingMIC/AMP D is part of the expanding family of Vaddio’s EasyIP AV-over-IP ecosystem.

Yamaha UC’s CS-800 Video Sound Bar

Yamaha UC’s CS-800 Video Sound Bar features a 4K AI-enabled video camera that supports auto-framing and allows for three modes: speaker tracking, individual tracking, or group mode. Audio and video information are used to determine the section of the space or meeting room where relevant participants are located to direct the focus to that area.

Through a simple HDMI connection, users can easily launch video calls on the CS-800. Whether used in a BYOD environment or with installed equipment, the product supports auto wake up when someone enters the meeting space and provides on-screen guidance regarding how to start the meeting. Additionally, the technology enables companies to add customized images and corporate messaging.

Panasonic Connect’s WX-AM800 Ceiling Array Microphone

Panasonic Connect’s WX-AM800 Ceiling Array Microphone, designed to cover a 30-by-30-foot area with four adjustable zones, automatically adjusts its sensitivity based on the location of the speaker and features built-in integration with one Panasonic PTZ camera for voice tracking without a control system. With the new WX-AU202 Antenna/Receiver, users can add up to two Panasonic DECT wireless microphones without having to use rack space. Corporate meeting rooms and classrooms need crisp, clear audio technology to ensure all participants, whether they are in-person or tuning in remotely, can actively participate in the conversation.

Nureva’s HDL310 and HDL410 Audio Conferencing Systems

Nureva’s HDL310 and HDL410 Audio Conferencing Systems give customers a plug-and-play system with pro-AV-quality audio that lets every voice be heard. The simplicity of installation, setup, and device management gives IT professionals new opportunities to accelerate the cost-effective deployment of their large and extra-large conferencing spaces without compromising the collaboration experience. These unique systems are powered by Nureva’s patented Microphone Mist technology, which fills a space with thousands of virtual microphones to deliver the full-room audio pickup and clarity required for an inclusive meeting experience, regardless of where participants are located or facing.

Bose Professional’s Videobar VB1 and VB-S

Bose Professional’s Videobar VB1 and VB-S conferencing devices are all-in-one USB meeting solutions. The Videobar VB1 is specifically designed for medium-sized meeting spaces up to 20 by 20 feet. Its counterpart the Videobar VB-S is more compact, with plug-and-play simplicity enabling a quick and easy setup—ideal for small meeting spaces of up to 10 by 10 feet. The Videobar VB1 provides six automatic beam-steering microphones (four for the Videobar VB-S), a 4K Ultra HD camera, and signature sound—together removing videoconferencing hardware headaches. The Bose Professional Videobar conferencing devices help you huddle up, connect, and get more done.

Sony Electronics’ SLS-1A High-Performance Line-Array Speaker

Sony Electronics’ SLS-1A High-Performance Line-Array Speaker is purpose-built to create new sound field coverage for education, corporate, retail, and faith applications. The speaker solves common pain points for large and medium spaces with large-format displays; for example, unfavorable acoustics and architectural challenges, unintelligibility, separation of visuals and sound, and the inability to create a listening experience prioritized for each participant. The SLS-1A minimizes sound distortion and enables beam steering to accurately control the direction and angle of sound delivery. It features center-screen sound localization technology for a uniform sound experience, regardless of location.

Jabra’s Speak2 75 Professional Speakerphone

Jabra’s Speak2 75 Professional Speakerphone is the best for hybrid working. It is a personal, pocketable device for the coffee-table-conferencing, dining-room-dialing, hotel-hot-desking meeting rooms of today’s hybrid world. It’s the next generation of Jabra’s world-leading Speak Series of professional, portable speakerphones, and it is packed with the latest technology, including a 65mm speaker, super-wideband audio, full-duplex audio for the most natural conversations, and four beamforming microphones. It’s also the only speakerphone in its class to feature an intuitive Microphone Quality Indicator, and both USB-C and USB-A connectors on the same cable.

Crestron Flex Pods

Crestron Flex Pods by Crestron provide flexible, high-quality audio for hybrid meetings and are scalable across many spaces. All components are designed to be used out of the box with no audio setup. No matter where the people are in the space, the solution can be moved to ensure optimal range and reach so everyone can hear, and be heard, clearly. In-room participants experience consistent audio as volume levels are synchronized across all Crestron Flex Pods in the room. Users can easily mute, unmute, and adjust the speaker volume right on the Crestron Flex Pods, putting control where the people are.

Logitech’s Rally Series All-in-One Video Bars

Logitech’s Rally Series All-in-One Video Bars deliver easy, equitable, and consistent video conferencing experiences across various-sized rooms, and feature impressive audio. A natural meeting experience for remote employees is created with the twice-as-loud Rally Bar Huddle’s redesigned ported-audio system, advanced sound pickup via beamforming mics, and AI-based noise suppression.

Similarly, Rally Bar’s advanced audio engineering—high-performance speaker drivers, adaptive beamforming mics, port tube for enhanced low frequencies, and patented anti-vibration suspension system for full duplex—deliver powerful, room-filling sound so everyone is heard. AI sound optimization is made possible for auto-level loud and soft voices while suppressing unwanted noise with RightSound technology that improves over time.

SoundTube’s STNet IPD-Hub 2 Amplifier

SoundTube’s STNet IPD-Hub 2 Amplifier, a versatile, Dante-enabled two-channel amplifier, is ideal for audio conferencing applications. Plenum-rated with onboard DSP and AES67 compatibility, it is a cost-effective alternative to conventional audio distribution. The optional Remote Volume Control enables seamless integration with RDL Format A input devices. Operating via PoE, PoE+, or MSE’s High Power PoE @ 40W means flexibility and efficiency. It’s perfect for small- to medium-sized areas, with the capacity to link multiple units for larger spaces or eight-zone setups. Optimize your conferencing audio experience with the STNet IP-enabled IPD-Hub 2 amp and SoundTube IPD speakers

Q-SYS’ NM Series Network Microphones

Q-SYS’ NM Series Network Microphones are ideal for any collaboration space. They feature advanced beamforming technology with four software-configurable zones and up to 360-degree coverage, allowing designers to minimize noise and refine intelligibility for optimal collaboration experiences. The tabletop NM-T1 enables users to easily manage meetings with a fully programmable RGB LED light ring for visual indication of the microphone mute state. For touchless operation, it includes an integrated proximity sensor that is activated with a simple hand wave over the microphone. All processing on the NM-T1 is centralized on the Q-SYS Core processor, providing processing flexibility and headroom for additional field-deployable microphone enhancements via software, now and into the future. 

Biamp’s Desono C-IC6LP

Biamp’s Desono C-IC6LP low-profile ceiling mount loudspeaker provides an ideal choice for any conferencing space that demands superior speech reproduction in narrow-depth ceilings. The powerful and versatile shallow, low-profile ceiling loudspeaker features just a 4-inch (10cm) mounting depth. Optimized for superior speech reproduction in conferencing environments, the C-IC6LP is a two-way 6.5-inch (16.5cm) passive coaxial loudspeaker with either a standard category cable or a traditional speaker cable installation connection. The C-IC6LP also directly integrates with the Tesira AMP-450BP, a four-channel “backpack” PoE+ amplifier that reduces wiring requirements and installation time.

ClearOne’s BMA 360D

ClearOne’s BMA 360D Beamforming Microphone Array Ceiling Tile delivers unrivaled audio performance. It’s the industry’s only ultra-wideband, frequency-invariant beamforming mic array with uniform gain response across all frequency bands. Dante integration enhances the array’s functionality by delivering unprocessed beam audio on individual Dante transmit channels, and a smart-switched output is delivered on a separate Dante channel to provide the optimal mix of active inputs while enabling ClearOne’s full suite of audio enhancements. The BMA 360D now incorporates the world’s most advanced audio technology and is compatible with any Dante-enabled DSP mixer.

ATEN Technology’s AS Series Ceiling Speakers

ATEN Technology’s AS Series Ceiling Speakers deliver excellent sound quality through their 100-20kHz bandwidth, allowing maximum listening space efficiency with fewer sets of speakers. They come in pairs of 4-inch (AS104) or 6.5-inch (AS106) coaxial two-way loudspeakers with a 20mm dome tweeter; 30W RMS and 60W peak power, and 60W RMS and 120W peak power, respectively; and matching transformers running on 70/100V lines or 8 ohm to suit various applications. Phase issues are minimized by adopting coaxial neodymium magnetic drivers. 

The AS Series is manufactured with UL94-V0 materials, improving flame and fire protection. ATEN ceiling speakers are ideal for auditoriums, HoW, sports venues, and mid-size meeting spaces.

Listen Technologies’ ListenWIFI

Listen Technologies’ ListenWIFI is the next generation of the Listen EVERYWHERE audio-over-Wi-Fi solution. ListenWIFI streams venue audio to smartphones through a free, customizable app or directly to new LWR-1050 receivers. When used with proper signage and neck loops, the new receivers make ListenWIFI compliant with ADA and international accessibility requirements. New ListenWIFI Beacons provide location-based audio for a fully automated and seamless user experience. Beacons are small units that can be mounted on a wall and transmit information to LWR-1050 receivers and smartphones running the ListenWIFI app. ListenWIFI is used for assistive listening, language interpretation, streaming video or TV audio, self-guided tours, and audio descriptions.

AtlasIED IsoFlare Series

The AtlasIED IsoFlare Series of premium ceiling loudspeakers is the perfect accompaniment for any corporate conference room. The IsoFlare series uses a specialized core based on next-generation point source technology and offers outstanding stereo imaging with constant directivity for more immersive sound quality. The series includes coaxial high-frequency compression drivers for consistent audio quality and high-caliber transformers to prevent distortion. It is available in seven models, including full-range models in four-, six-, and eight-inch sizes, a 4-inch low profile model, an 8-inch subwoofer, and two pre-install models.

Now the entire line of ClearOne solutions is available for specification within the popular D-Tools software platform for integrators. D-Tools’ System Integrator software and D-Tools Cloud platform make it easier than ever for integrators to specify ClearOne solutions for any type of installation, according to ClearOne vice president of sales, Americas Jim Mergens.

“ClearOne offers solutions for every type of commercial and residential collaboration environment, from large auditoriums and conference rooms to huddle spaces and home offices," Mergens emphasized. "Making this line up available to partners on the D-Tools platform is going to greatly simplify the specification process and stimulate a new level of creativity around system design. A whole new world of possibilities is going to open for integrators, technology consultants, and the customers they serve."

[Here's What They Don't Teach You in Business School about Being a Systems Integrator] 

“We are excited to add ClearOne to our partner database within D-Tools’ software solutions,” said Barrie McCorkle, director of supplier programs, D-Tools. “Including ClearOne in our platform makes an exciting new series of solutions available to our integrators, one that is going to expand the range of possibilities they offer customers.”

D-Tools’ on-premises software, System Integrator (SI), and cloud-based platform, D-Tools Cloud, streamline project workflows for system integrators including sales, comprehensive system, design, project documentation, procurement, installation, back-office management, and service, through a data-driven process that leverages an extensive and integrated product library. The D-Tools product library will now include detailed product information and dealer-specific pricing for ClearOne’s full line of communications, conferencing, and collaboration solutions and related accessory products.

[A Meeting Equity Progress Report] 

ClearOne customers can sign up for an extended 45-day free trial of D-Tools Cloud.

Temple University’s Fox School of Business is leveraging the power of ClearOne’s BMA 360 Microphone and CONVERGE Pro 2 DSP Mixer to empower educators with easy-to-use classroom systems that improve usability and remote learner experiences. According to the school’s IT director, Vikram Singh, the tumultuous COVID years created an urgent need for modern remote communication tools that provide convenience, reliability, and room-to-room consistency, and most importantly, deliver crystal-clear audio quality for every remote participant. 

“By 2021, we had demoed a variety of solutions with our partner installation firms. We decided that the ClearOne BMA 360 and CONVERGE Pro 2 solutions offered the most user-friendly and flexible system that could be adapted into a range of room types and sizes,” Singh explained. “The first room we addressed was an event space of around 3,000 square feet with 20-foot ceilings, which previously relied on wireless handheld and lavalier microphones for voice pickup. Adding three BMA 360 ceiling tile microphones throughout the room greatly simplified use and increased efficiency because it can pick up voice accurately and clearly from any spot in the room, eliminating the need to hand-deliver microphones for audience questions.”

[A Meeting Equity Progress Report] 

As a proof of concept, the event space was a major success. Combined with the room’s two cameras and two laser projection screens, the BMA 360 (Beamforming Microphone Array) audio solution delivered superior audio quality and reliability with no daily setup required. Instructors and meeting hosts praised the system’s simplicity, including its ability to work with various collaboration platforms such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams, as well as its compatibility with all major operating systems, including Windows and MacOS. 

Following the initial success, the school began outfitting additional large spaces with the same three-BMA 360 solution, including the adjacent large classroom and an auditorium. Key benefits of the BMA 360 include its 600-square-foot pickup range and ability to automatically steer the microphone arrays to the current speaker. These features enable the three-microphone system to capture audio from every spot, with greater clarity than previous designs that relied on microphones with smaller coverage.

“After a brief pause of all in-person activities, we invited instructors to host hybrid lessons where some students may show up in person, and others could attend online,” Singh added. “It was obvious that the ClearOne room was the ideal solution, as other spaces experienced major disruptions in audio pickup due to existing microphones picking up HVAC noise. The advanced noise cancellation offered by the BMA 360 and CONVERGE Pro 2 digital signal processor solved that problem and became our preferred solution, which we are now in the process of standardizing across the school. In fact, it’s so intuitive to use that we don’t even have to provide training—the users just know how it works.”

[An Immersive Education]

“Replacing the existing hanging mics in the Fox School of Business with ClearOne’s nearly invisible ceiling tile microphones has improved the appearance of these rooms, with reduced distractions and visual clutter,” said Jason DiCampello, CTS regional sales director at ClearOne. “Additionally, after each room is installed and programmed, there are no complicated settings to fiddle with or options to choose, so staff can focus on the lesson and the students instead of wasting time fussing with the technology.”

The success quickly spread beyond the Fox School of Business, with several other Temple University schools beginning renovations of remote collaboration systems with the same ClearOne solution. Instructors and meeting hosts can use each room’s integrated PC or easily connect their own laptops, regardless of operating system or collaboration platform.

[Running from Fears in Pro AV] 

Standardizing on ClearOne is an important goal for Singh, as it simplifies every aspect of daily use, including instructor and student experiences, system maintenance and room scheduling. With 40 classrooms, five event spaces and about 25 conference rooms, deploying minor variations on a standard solution can help minimize in-class setup time and avoid the frustration and delays that often arise from using disparate systems. As smaller rooms may not require multiple BMA 360s or their own CONVERGE Pro 2 DSPs, they can instead utilize other ClearOne devices specially designed for smaller spaces. 

Temple’s hybrid and remote solution upgrades are ongoing and will continue in coming years as budgets allow, with an ultimate goal of a fully standardized campus where every relevant room functions the same. The CONVERGE Pro 2 DSP provides enhanced signal processing to improve audio clarity even further, as well as manage input signals from multiple microphone units.

Amid a torrent of rapidly changing student needs in the spring of 2020, The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) embarked on a mission to make its campus accessible to remote learning. The college’s Office of Media and Technology Support Services (MTSS) began evaluating several options to deliver high-quality audio capture in classrooms and lecture halls, ultimately commencing a multi-phase rollout of ClearOne solutions across the entire campus to empower educators with reliable, easy-to-use remote learning technologies that deliver an exceptional performance.

“When COVID threw a wrench into in-person classes, we quickly recognized the need to develop hybrid learning environments that support the ongoing success of our staff and students,” said director of user support services Jon Bannan. “The most critical need we identified was that any solution must be dead simple to operate, or otherwise risk introducing interruptions and frustration into educators’ daily schedules. The ClearOne COLLABORATE Versa Lite CT system stood out as a high-performing solution that’s compatible with virtually any computer, mobile device or collaboration platform, making it easy to deploy in multi-use spaces that host different educators throughout the day.”

Featuring the ClearOne BMA CT, a beamforming microphone solution that blends in with drop ceilings, the COLLABORATE Versa Lite CT system provides enhanced audio pickup and clarity while simplifying connection of AV peripherals and computers through the ClearOne Versa USB Hub. It offers acoustic echo cancellation and adaptive steering, which intelligently switches between the unit’s multiple directional microphones to optimize pickup based on the current location of speaker or meeting host.

 [A Meeting Equity Progress Report] 

To date, MTSS has installed 53 Versa Lite CT systems in small and medium-sized classrooms in conjunction with a variety of camera solutions that offer automatic tracking to keep the presenter in frame as they move around the room. Combined with the adaptive steering capability of the BMA CT, these systems provide educators flexibility and allow them to step away from the front of the room while maintaining consistently excellent audio and video quality for remote learners. Most rooms also include a projection system, while some feature a digital display.

“Three years after we began this project, we would be hard pressed to find a student, parent or educator who expects anything less—it’s essentially a requirement now,” Bannan explained. “In the competitive college landscape, staying ahead of technology trends is vital to achieve enrollment goals and provide all students equitable access regardless of individual situations or external disruptions. Additionally, using the same solutions across campus has raised the tech confidence of staff and offers a simple, intuitive setup that even guest speakers or event hosts can operate with ease.”

After witnessing the widespread success of the Versa Lite CT solutions, MTSS turned its focus to the college’s lecture halls. In order to deliver the same simplicity and quality for its larger classes, the tech team developed a solution that combines multiple powerful BMA 360 ceiling microphones with a Converge Pro 2 DSP mixer, again in conjunction with a variety of tracking cameras. This solution ensures complete coverage for the larger rooms while enabling connection of up to 12 additional lavalier, lapel or other types of microphones commonly used for panel discussions and multi-speaker scenarios. The BMA 360 makes system design even easier by allowing up to three distant units to be daisy chained together using P-Link, requiring only a single home run cable to the DSP.

[Executive Q&A: Change of Plans]

“As we began deploying the new audio capture solutions, we worked closely with ClearOne’s knowledgeable reps to ensure each space operates smoothly and delivers a consistent experience for staff and students,” Bannan added. “The high level of support we received from the very beginning was a determining factor in our product selection and has provided us with assurance that any issues we encounter with installations or operations can be quickly remedied.”

The deployment is ongoing, with each year’s budget providing additional funds to integrate more classrooms and spaces, including conference rooms. The first to be upgraded was the President’s conference room, which houses BMA 360 and BMA CT systems that effectively solve for the room’s challenging acoustic environment that includes many hard surfaces. This specific room also utilizes the BMA 360 Voice Lift technology that delivers equalized sound reinforcement to all areas of the room, so no attendee is left straining to hear the speaker. 

“The College of New Jersey moved deftly to provide all stakeholders with the latest innovative solutions for remote learning and hybrid classrooms, and their efforts to standardize the campus’ technology are already paying dividends for staff and guests,” said ClearOne regional sales director Jason DiCampello, who worked directly with Bannan. “The need for reliable, high-quality audio and video solutions in education is only going to grow, and we look forward to continuing to work with TCNJ to provide long-lasting solutions that support staff and help the college meet its goals.”

InfoComm 2023 is right around the corner. We've been doing our best to keep you up to date on all there is to see in Orlando this June.  Today, take a look at six more exhibitors you need to add to your must-see list. 

[InfoComm 2023: 'No Stopping Us Now']

LG to Showcase Future of Digital Displays

LG Business Solutions USA will be showcasing products at Booth 1642, where show attendees will be able to experience a vast array of digital display solutions and explore applications across a wide range of industries and commercial use cases in a dozen distinct product zones. 

[InfoComm 2023 Impulses: LG Business Solutions on Transparent and dvLED Displays]

LG’s InfoComm booth will offer a wide range of pixel pitch options for both commercial and residential purposes, spanning from 0.68mm to 1.56mm, including models dedicated to virtual production. 

Even from outside the booth, visitors will revel in the Digital Art Zone’s massive 272-inch LG MAGNIT 8K Micro LED display. Showing a variety of 8K footage that captures the beauty of the natural world, integrators will be able to envision how such a show-stopping display could be used in public spaces, corporate or hotel lobbies.

The rear side of the Digital Art display wall highlights additional opportunities for these spaces with a new 163-inch all-in-one dvLED display and a custom-designed digital sculpture that combines eight 55-inch transparent OLED displays, resembling a giant prism.

As they are drawn in, visitors will be treated to another spectacular sight as the MAGNIT 8K Micro LED display synchronizes with a Transparent OLED Signage banner comprising 26 55-inch displays. Covering one side of the LG exhibition hall’s entrance, the overhead solution will create an incredibly immersive media art experience while showcasing the technology’s versatility and creative application opportunities.  

LG will demonstrate advanced display solutions for broadcasters, production studios and digital content creators in the Virtual Production Zone, with displays that allow for live-action footage to be shot against a realistic virtual backdrop. Attendees can learn how a virtual production studio works and how they are being used to dramatically increase media creation opportunities while reducing the cost of content production for film, TV and in-house corporate needs. 

Another large MAGNIT display, measuring 163-inches diagonal and featuring a remote power supply option, will grace the Control Room Zone. Integrators will see for themselves how the minute pixel pitch, high brightness, and color accuracy offered by MicroLED MAGNIT displays provide ultimate clarity and accuracy for critical Control Room operations. 

The Meeting Room and Board Room Zone is where visitors will encounter the widest variety of displays, centered around the 21:9 all-in-one dvLED displays optimized for widescreen video conferencing platforms. This zone will also show how LG’s One:Quick Works and One:Quick Flex displays offer enhanced operations in office settings. 

The versatility of LG’s Transparent OLED solution will be spotlighted in the Retail Zone, where a 30-inch screen serves as the draw and centerpiece of a shoe display and a 55-inch watch kiosk entices shoppers and provides key product information. This zone also includes multiple other transparent OLED displays and a fine-pitch LED display. 

The Software Solutions Zone demonstrates a variety of digital signage software solutions, including the LG Cloud Platform, SuperSign Cloud and Pro:Centric Cloud for content management, ConnectedCare for remote management and LG Smart Cam Pro for 4K smart cameras.

Moving into the Education Zone, visitors will be presented with the LG CreateBoard (model TR3DK), which shows how modernized classrooms can engage, inform and inspire students while enabling and encouraging greater collaboration. The latest model provides LG CreateBoard Lab for content creating and writing, and LG CreateBoard Share for wireless content and screen sharing. 

The Food and Beverage Zone will demonstrate a variety of digital signage displays, including a 37-inch ultrawide Stretch display that’s ideal for advertising on shelves and pick-up desks, and ultra-bright 22-inch and 55-inch weatherproof models optimized for drive through applications.

LG power-saving and green technologies will be featured in the ESG and EV Charging Zones. In the ESG zone, visitors will learn about LG’s focus on environmental sustainability, exemplified by hundreds of ENERGY STAR certified displays and supported by noteworthy international certifications for electromagnetic emissions, safety, security, accessibility, compatibility, and durability. The EV Charging zone will point to the future, showing how LG’s high-brightness outdoor displays can be incorporated into partner-manufactured EV charging kiosks.

ClearOne to Demonstrate Full Range of Conferencing, Collaboration, Communications Solutions 

ClearOne is returning to InfoComm 2023 at Booth 3061. The all-new Versa UCS2100, which automatically detects HDMI and USB-C sources, such as dedicated in-room laptops, and offers the flexibility for users to access the same set of in-room AV peripherals, will be available to demo, along with additional solutions for mid-sized rooms including the COLLABORATE Versa Pro CT, CONVERGE Wall-Mount Bluetooth Expander, UNITE 160 4K professional camera, COLLABORATE Versa Pro 160, COLLABORATE Versa Pro 60, and COLLABORATE Versa 20 Plus.

Ideal for smaller collaboration rooms, the recently launched CHAT 150 BT Speakerphone, a group USB and Bluetooth speakerphone that enhances conferencing for the ultimate in business-class performance, will be on display in the booth. The CHAT 150 BT allows for fast connectability, enhanced audio including noise cancellation and is compatible with all standard web conferencing applications.

Attendees will also be able to view ClearOne’s Ceiling Microphone Array, CONVERGE Huddle, LS5WT Wall and LS6CT Ceiling Speakers, Versa Mediabar Video Soundbar, COLLABORATE Versa 60, and the UNITE 60,180 and 20 Pro cameras.

Newly launched solutions including the UNITE 260 Pro Camera, a professional 4K Ultra HD camera with motorized pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ), 20x optical zoom, and 16x digital zoom providing the capability to capture all participants in the room will stand out at InfoComm 2023, in addition to industry-favorite solutions like ClearOne’s CONVERGE Pro 2 DSP Mixers, BMA 360, UNITE 200 Pro cameras, and COLLABORATE Versa Room CT 160.

BYOD collaboration solutions will also be on hand at the show, in addition to a selection of ClearOne network management solutions, including the CONVERGENCE Cloud AV Manager, CONVERGENCE Enterprise AV Manager, and CONVERGENCE InSite Server.

ENCO Open Captioning Takes the Stage 

ENCO comes to InfoComm next week with new updates to its enCaption live captioning software, which can be seen in action at ENCO’s Booth 3816 and at the Technology Innovation Stage Booth 2260, where the technology will power live, automated captions on stage-side displays to support presentations from industry thought leaders. ENCO’s AI-enhanced enCaption software, now in its fifth generation, excels at helping audiences retain, comprehend, and engage with information being presented in real-time, with industry-leading speed and accuracy.

ENCO’s ADA-compliant enCaption live captioning software has been the leading platform for automated closed captioning in broadcast TV and radio for several years, and the company holds patents that strengthen its intellectual property for captioning technology and speech-to-text translation. Over the last few years, ENCO has invested engineering resources into developing an open captioning platform for a rapidly growing AV customer base, using the same proven technology to automate open captioning with speed and accuracy for live meetings, presentations, classes/lectures, and events.

New for InfoComm, ENCO’s development team has achieved accuracy improvements of up to 20%, with enhanced speaker detection for more seamless captioning of program material with multiple speakers. Data formatting for phone numbers, measurements, websites, and email addresses is also remarkably improved, driving better caption readability.

enCaption also now integrates ENCO’s enTranslate solution as an optional plug-in module for non-native-speaking audiences. Once a separate platform, ENCO’s latest enTranslate solution cost-effectively expands audience reach through automatic live translation to support captioning workflows. ENCO recently added support for 14 new languages, bringing enTranslate’s current portfolio to 34 languages. 

enCaption can be deployed on-premises, in the Cloud, or in hybrid on-prem/cloud workflows. Flexible pricing options for cloud-based enCaption5 deployments make the platform even more cost-effective for customers such as houses of worship, municipalities, and live event producers with only periodic or ad hoc captioning and transcription needs.

ENCO will also demonstrate its ClipFire live and automated content-delivery platform. ClipFire combines automatic ingest, media asset management, graphics, and playout automation into a unified platform, and enables rapid content delivery to enhance the fan experience for live sports, concerts, and more. New features include ingest and playout of multiple channels of video with support for baseband SDI and NDI inputs and outputs, as well as on-the-fly transcoding to support mixed file formats and resolutions.

Audix Showcases Microphone Solutions

Visitors to Audix's Booth 5249 will be able to audition microphones, meet the Audix team in person, and enjoy live-streamed demos that showcase the audio quality and consistency of Audix products in a remote context. 

Audix products on display include the M45, M3WDK, and M70WD ceiling-mount mics; the MicroPod, M65,  and USB12 tabletop mics; the M60 and M63 tabletop boundary mics, and the GS1 wall-mount mic. Finally, the DN4 and DN43 audio interfaces bring microphones into Dante and AES67 audio-over-IP networks, making routing, mixing, and ’casting as easy as plugging into an Ethernet port. What’s more, all Audix microphones described herein are virtually immune to RF interference from smartphones or passing two-way radios.
 
Every hour on the hour (except for the opening and closing times of the InfoComm exhibit floor), Audix regional sales manager Lofty Whitaker will livestream a demonstration of the above mics and more from our headquarters in Wilsonville, Oregon. Participants can expect to be surprised by how clear all the mics sound capturing speech as well as the sonic consistency from one mic to the next — and to receive a crash course in which mics are best for their particular rooms and applications.

Barix Introduces Expanded IPAC Family and First Dante Applications

Barix comes to InfoComm at Booth 5451 with an expanded suite of hardware products for installed AV systems, courtesy of its growing IPAC (IP Audio Client) family of IP audio decoders and amplifiers. Now five products strong, the IPAC family adds the Annuncicom MPI400 for InfoComm, supporting networked intercom, paging and background music applications with elevated security standards. Barix will also preview Dante-compatible applications that bring Barix’s wide-area networking expertise together with Dante’s LAN-based digital audio networking. 

Barix introduced Audio over IP technology to the broadcast, AV, retail, and security industries in 2001. Integration with Dante would bring two Audio over IP innovators that focus on different applications together to solve problems and create new business opportunities for installers and end users.

Expanded IPAC Family

Barix will also highlight the latest scheduling, custom management and interoperability potential of the IPAC family for AV and IT professionals, strengthened through REST-based APIs for custom application development and integration with third-party solutions:

• Paging Gateway 400: The Paging Gateway M400 bridges smartphones with both legacy analog and modern IP paging systems. New for InfoComm, a streamlined user interface allows users to drop a browser shortcut button onto the phone’s home screen, with no need for a dedicated app.
• IP Former TPA400: The IP Former can be attached to any loudspeaker to transform legacy speakers into IP speakers. It provides an IP network interface, audio stream decoder and amplifier front-end for a two- to eight-ohm speaker, with PoE for streamlined installation. 
• Exstreamer MPA400 and M400: Representing the future of Barix’s most well-known product range, the Exstreamer MPA400 outputs up to 40 watts of audio into existing Audio over IP and emergency notification systems, while the M400 is configurable as an AES67 receiver and decoder for interoperability with AoIP networks and Dante-compatible devices.

Pliant Technologies to Showcase CrewCom v1.14 Update

Pliant Technologies recently released its new CrewCom firmware and software update, v1.14. The latest update includes several enhancements to CrewCom’s already long list of capabilities, such as the support of two additional hardware devices, convenient new features and several key improvements to CrewWare control software to strengthen the user experience. Pliant will be featuring these latest enhancements at InfoComm 2023 (Booth 4854).

With the new v1.14 firmware update, CrewCom now supports the addition of the new IP-rated lineup of Radio Transceivers (RTs), and the current CrewCom CRP-12 series of Radio Packs (RPs). CrewWare v1.14 includes a unique UI display in the system diagram of CrewWare that automatically detects the new IP-rated RT hardware and shows when it is in use, as well as the indication of corresponding new model numbers in the detail and device list views. 

Specifically for the CRP-12 Radio Packs, (previously available only for the CB2 system), this new release also adds dual listen/single talk functionality, giving users the ability to simultaneously listen to two pre-selected conferences on a single volume belt pack while also allowing them to talk on either one of those conferences. Software UI additions and modifications have also been made to display the new Radio Pack support as well as to indicate dual listen/single talk capabilities.

Using the new Ping Function feature, it is now possible to activate, from within the software, a device location function called Ping on both the RTs as well as the RPs. For the RT, when activating ping, both the top ping light and the mode LED on the bottom of the transceiver will blink to facilitate the location of a specific device. For the RP, when activated, ping will cause the backlight of the LCD display (or LEDs in the case of the CRP-12) to blink until deactivated by the operator. In order to facilitate the location of a specific RP or RT, ping indications remain latched on until the device has been found and the operator manually disables the function.

Additionally, the CrewWare system’s display of the Radio Transceiver now has the added ability to quickly see the status of each individual device’s antenna selection. It will now graphically indicate if it is in Dual (two antennas) or Single (Left or Right) modes.

The new CrewCom v1.14 firmware upgrade, which includes the new features and updates, is free of charge to all users and will soon be available for direct download from the Pliant Technologies website.

SCN: How long have you been with ClearOne, and what are your responsibilities?

Derek Graham: I started working for ClearOne in July 2003, so I have been with ClearOne for about 20 years. Currently, one of my responsibilities is setting the strategic direction for the company and making decisions that drive growth in revenue and profit. Another responsibility is balancing the competing needs of our employees, customers, and investors.

SCN: How has your engineering background, particularly with ClearOne, helped you prepare for your role as CEO?

DG: My engineering background taught me how to find the optimal solution for a problem with a given set of resources and constraints. My experiences prepared me by immersing me in projects that often had problems with several subcomponents and layers of complexity along with schedule deadlines and cost constraints.

My first role at ClearOne was lead engineer in a subsidiary called VideoLabs in Minnesota. Over time, I was given the opportunity to take on roles with greater levels of responsibility. My job title changed to engineering operations manager, director of R&D, senior director of R&D, vice president of R&D, and then senior vice president of R&D.

As my responsibilities grew, I was given the opportunity to work with and provide deliverables to all areas of the company. I also had the opportunity to establish relationships with key players within the company outside of R&D in operations, sales, and finance. In addition, I had the opportunity to contribute to the company’s patent portfolio as an inventor and play a key role in defending the company’s intellectual property.

ClearOne has a strong legacy as a pioneer in the conferencing and communication space. I am thankful that our board of directors saw that I had aptitude for greater responsibility and recognized my unique strength in continuing ClearOne’s legacy by giving me the opportunity to move into this role.

SCN: Now that you no longer have “interim” status, what are your short and long-term goals for ClearOne?

DG: In the short term, ClearOne is working to transfer our manufacturing from China to Singapore. There are several benefits we will gain from this transfer, including TAA compliance, which allows us to qualify for certain sales to the U.S. government and avoid China tariffs. The downside is that the transition places constraints on the volume of products we can produce until the transition is complete.

[Executive Q&A: Diamond Days for Verrex]

Longer term, I want to do a better job of addressing the concerns and needs of our channel partners and as our revenue grows, I would like to add more internal programs that benefit our employees.  I have given the team a goal to increase the interoperability of our products with products from other companies. I want to obtain more Zoom certifications and add Microsoft Teams certifications for our products. I also want ClearOne to continue to innovate by using advancements in computing power to add new features, improve audio and video quality, integrate more functionality into fewer boxes, and leverage new technologies to make it easier to configure and deploy our products. 

SCN: What area is drawing the most business for ClearOne these days, home office or commercial solutions?

DG: Commercial solutions are generating the most revenue for ClearOne these days. We experienced a significant sales increase in 2021 for our video cameras for home office use, as many people around the world started working from home due to COVID-19, but in 2022, video sales for home office use decreased.

SCN: How important is BYOD in today’s hybrid workforce and educational settings?

DG: BYOD is very important because these days, a significant percentage of people work from home for at least part of the work week. For those people, having the ability to use the same computing device in the office or classroom and at home can significantly improve productivity.

SCN: ClearOne has speakerphones, conference phones, and tabletop microphones. What’s the difference?

DG: Speakerphone is the name ClearOne uses for peripherals for a computer that have a built-in speaker and one or more microphones in a common housing. They allow a user with a laptop or mobile phone to connect to one or more speakerphone peripheral devices in a conferencing space. Speakerphones can generate louder audio output and capture audio from a larger area in a conferencing space than a single computing device. Speakerphones are typically connected to a computing device via USB or Bluetooth. Some companies have started calling these devices “SpeakerMics.”

Conference phone is the name ClearOne uses for a device that can operate as a standalone phone instead of working only as a peripheral to another device. Conference phones have a built-in speaker, one or more microphones, a keypad, and a display that can be used for dialing and showing the status of a call. They are connected to a POTS or VoIP telephone line. Conference phones may also be able to connect to another conference phone, and/or a laptop via USB or Bluetooth. A tabletop microphone is just a mic without a speaker.

SCN: What are the biggest stumbling blocks for potential customers looking to adopt AVoIP workflows?

DG: Many potential AVoIP customers want to use their existing IP networks and set up a VLAN to stream video, but they also want low video latency and high video resolution. These customers often find that they do not have sufficient bandwidth to support their desired AVoIP use cases. Also, even though video compression formats are standardized, there can be interoperability issues when customers try to integrate AVoIP streaming equipment from different vendors into the same installation.

SCN: Your company has established ClearOne University—why such an emphasis on education?

DG: Our professional audio products offer system integrators a lot of power and configurability. To make effective use of that power, industry practitioners need to understand all the features and the different ways our products can be configured. They also need a foundation in the principles of audio for conferencing and sound reinforcement. Armed with that knowledge, a practitioner can confidently commission a space and achieve a level of system performance that will delight their customers.

[Viewpoint: Running from Fears in Pro AV]

SCN: What’s next for the Pro AV industry?

DG: In the area of professional cameras and video technology, I expect to see broader deployment of multiple lenses and sensors in a single camera along with AI capabilities. For pro audio, I expect to see technology improvements that make it easier for industry practitioners to program and deploy professional audio equipment, integrate equipment from different vendors more seamlessly, and manage all the equipment in an enterprise from a single application.

ClearOne has launched eight new COLLABORATE Versa packaged hardware systems to provide optimized audio and video performance for conference rooms and personal office spaces. According to ClearOne CEO Derek Graham, the updated lineup of bundled solutions empowers businesses of all sizes and means to leverage powerful conferencing capabilities that include automatic voice tracking, face tracking, and echo cancellation.

“The new lineup of COLLABORATE Versa solutions offers an ideal package for every small-to-medium sized conferencing space or personal office, giving business owners and IT staff mission-specific options that ensure maximum value, utility, and performance in any room,” Graham said. “Whether a company is upgrading technology in existing spaces, opening a new location or undergoing construction and design changes, these packaged solutions can help them quickly and efficiently deploy industry-leading audio and video quality combined with powerful special features that make hosting meetings easier than ever.”

[SCN Hybrid World: Workplace Products and Expert Tips] 

The COLLABORATE Versa Room CT 160 uses the USB audio-enabled Beamforming Ceiling Tile (BMA CT) microphone to bring cost-effective professional conferencing audio to medium and large-sized meeting rooms. The microphone array has an integrated two-channel amplifier that provides 20W of audio power and makes it as easy as possible to connect the two included in-ceiling speakers. The BMA CT delivers automatic echo cancellation, noise cancellation and adaptive microphone steering, while the UNITE 160 4K camera offers AI-controlled video auto-framing and smart face tracking with 12x optical zoom. The automatic tracking features keep the speaker or meeting host in the frame, and the powerful zoom creates greater flexibility for camera placement.

For spaces where camera zoom is less important and a wider angle is desired, buyers can deploy the COLLABORATE Versa Room CT, which offers the same audio excellence using the BMA CT but swaps in a UNITE 60 4K camera to capture a wider 120-degree field of view with 3x digital zoom. All automated functions are included as well.

For smaller rooms or personal offices, the COLLABORATE Versa 20 combines a 1080p UNITE 20 Pro Webcam with a CHAT 50 portable personal speakerphone to create an ultra-simple option that can even be used on-the-go. The 100-degree wide-angle camera can be secured onto any display or monitor using the included dampening clip. For rooms requiring ultimate simplicity and BYOD flexibility, the COLLABORATE Versa 20 Plus solution adds a Versa USB Hub that provides single USB connections for simple, ergonomic connection of peripheral devices to room PC or laptops.

[Bring on BYOD] 

The COLLABORATE Versa 160 solution gives small-to-medium rooms plug-and-play connectivity with high quality audio and HD video that enhance the BYOD meeting room experience. This solution combines the aforementioned UNITE 160 4K PTZ camera with a Versa USB Hub and the robust CHAT 150 speakerphone that is equally at home in a small conference room as in a personal or home office. To ensure every unique space has an optimized solution, the COLLABORATE Versa 60 also offers the CHAT 150 and Versa Hub but swaps out the UNITE 160 4K PTZ camera for the wide-angle UNITE 60 4K.

COLLABORATE Versa Pro 160 improves the BYOD experience in mid-sized conference rooms by adding professional quality audio and video. Comprising ClearOne’s Ceiling Microphone Array, CONVERGE Huddle DSP mixer and UNITE 160 4K PTZ camera, this solution improves BYOD experiences for flexible use rooms with AI processing that can track an individual or frame an entire group for perfect framing and focus. Spaces requiring a wider camera angle can be outfitted with the COLLABORATE Versa Pro 60, which offers the same audio quality paired with the wider field of view captured by the UNITE 60 4K camera.

ClearOne’s solutions are designed to support all leading collaboration platforms, including Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, GoToMeeting, Zoom, and Webex.

The Road to InfoComm 2023 is officially open, as the show is just over a month away.  We'll do our best to keep you up to date with all the products and news information ahead of time. Get started today with news from ClearOne, Platinum Tools, and TechLogix. 

[Follow the ROAD TO INFOCOMM 2023 at AV Network] 

Hybrid Showcase: ClearOne's Recently Available Versa UCS2100 Collaboration Switcher Kit

You can see the Versa UCS2100 Collaboration Switcher Kit at Booth 3061 in Orlando. The kit was designed with today’s hybrid, flexible unified communications (UC) meeting spaces. in mind. 

Designed for use in small to mid-sized meeting rooms, board rooms, and executive offices, the new Versa UCS2100 automatically detects HDMI and USB-C sources, such as a dedicated in-room PC or a Bring-Your-Own-Meeting (BYOM) laptop and offers the flexibility for users to access the same set of in-room AV peripherals, such as cameras and audio devices. Its USB-C input provides up to 60 watts charging and provides simultaneous 1 x HDMI output and 1 x HDBaseT output.

When combined with ClearOne UNITE series PTZ cameras, INTERACT, CONVERGE Pro 2, CONVERGE HUDDLE, and CHAT series audio conferencing devices, the Versa UCS2100 delivers guaranteed performance and a streamlined user experience that supports automatic source detection and switching and is controllable via RS-232, TCP/IP, or front panel buttons.

Bi-Directional HDBaseT 3.0 allows the remote peripherals to be placed at a distance of up to 328 feet (100 meters) and provides 48 V PoE. It also features Dual USB hosts (USB-B and USB-C) for In Room PC and Bring-Your-Own-Meeting (BYOM) Laptop connectivity and it supports up to 4K 60 Hz 4:4:4 resolution, HDCP 2.2, HDR 10 and Dolby Vision.

Platinum Tools to Feature Recently Launched  Digital Tone and Probe Kit

Platinum Tools will feature its recently launched Digital Tone and Probe Kit (p/n TDG310K1C) during InfoComm 2023 at Booth 2421.

Features include:

• Trace and locate cables in unpowered or live circuits.
• Audible and visual signal strength indicators.
• Built-in testing of RJ45 terminations.
• Check status of analog phone lines.
• Built-in high-intensity flashlight.

TechLogix to Debut New MOFO Cable Series Products

TechLogix will feature a number of new products in its popular MOFO Cable Series during InfoComm 2023 at Booth 2421. New solutions among the MOFO Series include 8K HDMI Cables with Detachable Heads, USB-C Cables, USB-A to USB-C Cables, and DisplayPort 2.0 Cables.

8K HDMI cables with detachable heads (HD21D) cables have been designed for easier pulling through conduit and tight spaces. Each cable also includes an optional 5V power supply for boosting low-output devices on longer cable runs. MOFO 8K cables are backwards compatible with 1080p and 4K devices.

USB-C (USBC) cables extend SuperSpeed and Hi-Speed USB data and power (60W/20V/3A) up to 10m without the need for external power supplies, boosters, or extenders.

[USB-C: One Size Fits All?] 

USB-A to USB-C (USBAC) cables adapt USB type A connections to USB type C connections and extend SuperSpeed and Hi-Speed USB data and power (2.5W/5V/0.9A) up to 50m without the need for external power supplies, boosters, or extenders.

DisplayPort 2.0 (DP20) cables feature the native, uncompressed transmission of DisplayPort signals up to 100m without the need for external power supplies, boosters, or extenders. DP20 cables support VESA resolutions up to 40G 8K.

ClearOne released new features for its BMA 360 microphones, CONVERGE Pro 2 (CP2) family of digital signal processing mixers (DSPs), and intuitive CONSOLE AI configuration software.

The new features include customizable beam pointing for ClearOne’s BMA 360 ceiling tile microphone, native camera tracking in the CP2 DSP mixer, and chairman gating ducking. These new features are accessible and configurable through the latest release of CONSOLE AI configuration software.

According to ClearOne CEO Derek Graham, the new features enable integrators to deliver more responsive solutions to suit every client’s unique needs, while providing the superior flexibility and ease of use often demanded in modern business and educational settings.

[SCN Hybrid World: Look Up, Listen Up with These 9 Ceiling Mics]

“We’re providing these key enhancements to increase installation and design flexibility while enhancing real-time system management through new customization options,” Graham said. “A variety of needs can arise during a virtual conference. With the new ducking, camera tracking and beam pointing enhancements, users and integrators can now employ greater control to ensure optimal operation in any space under any circumstances.”

The new ducking capability, which refers to reducing an input’s gain based on other simultaneous inputs, ensures the hosts’ speech can always be heard above other microphone sources or other audio sources.

Additionally, camera tracking can now originate within the CP2 DSP mixer for VISCA compatible cameras, enabling the DSP to use serial or IP communication to automatically trigger camera pan-tilt-zoom PTZ presets based on gating or beam information without requiring a third-party control system. Lastly, beam pointing for the BMA 360 now offers full customization through a new view option and control interface that allows for full beam tuning and articulation.

[Here's How ClearOne Clarifies Audio Capabilities in Videoconferencing Spaces]

The BMA 360 is the world’s most technologically advanced beamforming microphone array ceiling tile, delivering unrivaled audio performance and deployment ease. It’s the industry’s only ultra-wideband, frequency invariant beamforming mic array with uniform gain response across all frequency bands.

Supporting up to three ClearOne BMA 360 microphones and up to five independent Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) lines per DSP unit, CONVERGE Pro 2 systems can be customized to provide crystal clear audio pickup and video capture in spaces of any size or design, including for multi-room setups and divisible rooms. CONVERGE Pro 2 systems offer C-Link DSP mixer interconnection technology for expanding Input/ Output ports and configuration, P-Link peripheral technology that delivers audio, data, and power to endpoints through a single cable, and advanced Acoustic Echo Cancellation (AEC) and Noise Cancellation for each connected microphone.

CONSOLE AI is a streamlined configuration and control software for ClearOne’s CONVERGE Pro 2 family of digital signal processing mixers (DSPs) that offers integrators advanced options and assistance during system installation and setup. The software helps integrators create audio channel groups without sacrificing individual channel control, provides a seamless design interface for larger systems containing two or more CONVERGE Pro 2 DSPs, and offers distinct design modes for single-room and multi-room designs.

[AV Network's top stories, product news, and expert insights] 

ClearOne’s solutions are designed to support all leading collaboration platforms, including Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, GoToMeeting, Zoom, and Webex.

ClearOne classroom technologies are vital to help today’s educators engage students, provide hybrid learning opportunities, and enhance familiarity with new tools commonly deployed in modern work environments. At Arizona’s Mesa Community College (MCC), which serves more than 20,000 students across three campuses, Covid-era shutdowns and funding provided a perfect opportunity to evaluate existing classroom technologies and pursue new solutions to enhance the flexibility and quality of remote learning experiences.

“Our team in the Media Department recognized that temporary school closures presented an opportunity to transform classrooms with new systems that deliver superior quality audio and video for remote learning," said David Kollar, MCC tech support specialist for Tech Services Media. "Based on colleagues’ prior positive experiences with ClearOne audio and video products, we tested and eventually selected multiple ClearOne audio solutions to provide reliable, cost-effective audio capture and guarantee every remote learner can hear each word spoken in the classroom with outstanding clarity.”

[SCN Hybrid World: Better Heard, Not Seen—Expert Advice on In-Ceiling Speakers]  

The school began evaluating its existing classroom solutions in the spring of 2020, and before long acquired a demo system from ClearOne using the company’s COLLABORATE Versa Pro CT beamforming in-ceiling microphone and CONVERGE Huddle DSP mixer. After testing the solution and inviting staff to comment on its performance, the school quickly purchased 28 Huddle mixers to improve the quality and simplicity of some existing room systems. By May 2023, approximately 200 rooms will offer educators the power and reliability of the Versa Pro CT solution, while eight larger rooms are upgraded with the enterprise-grade ClearOne Converge Pro 2 DSP.

“As a forward-thinking institution that happens to be one of the nation’s largest community colleges, we strive to provide maximum value to our students, no matter how they attend courses or where they are physically located,” added Jeff Foster, MCC senior tech support specialist for Tech Services Media. “Remote learning provides an excellent option for any students who can’t attend a class while also greatly increasing opportunity for parents or working professionals who rely on our courses and programs to advance their education and careers. Combined with the upcoming launch of our very first four-year degree programs, we are once again proving our commitment to innovation in education and providing options that allow more prospective students to pursue learning where, when and to what degree they choose. Innovative technologies such as ClearOne’s powerful audio products are crucial to our continued success and ability to attract students in a highly competitive market.”

[Bring on BYOD]

When the installations are completed, approximately two-thirds of existing classrooms will house ClearOne audio capture solutions, with some existing tech infrastructure being retained and integrated through analog connections on the ClearOne DSP mixers. Like many colleges, the campus designates some classrooms for open booking, while others are assigned to specific professors. Standardizing these easy-to-use systems across the entire campus allows for much greater reliability and ensures educators can quickly utilize remote tools without requiring IT assistance or encountering obstructions.

To help the school get up to speed and optimize use of the new solutions, ClearOne provided in-depth training to the technical staff and helped ensure teaching staff could be quickly trained to use advanced features such as Auto Echo Cancellation (AEC). A combination of new and existing PTZ cameras provide video capture, while a select number of legacy microphones were integrated into the Converge Pro 2 systems in larger lecture halls.

“With these investments in classroom technologies and the ability to support remote learners, Mesa Community College has positioned itself to be a leader in higher ed for years to come,” said ClearOne rep Jason Wiley. “Students of all disciplines can now enjoy crystal clear lectures and lessons wherever they choose, eliminating barriers for non-traditional students and enabling greater access to life-changing education.”

[Running from Fears in Pro AV] 

Simplifying user operations even further, ClearOne solutions feature wide compatibility with today’s leading virtual conferencing platforms including the company’s own COLLABORATE Space, Cisco WebEx, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet.

ClearOne’s Versa Pro CT solutions offers schools and businesses a cost-effective solution for ultra-high-quality audio capture in small to medium sized rooms. Comprising a powerful ceiling tile-style beamforming microphone array that blends into standard room environments, as well as a COLLABORATE Huddle DSP for signal processing and echo cancellation, the solution is easy to deploy and use for daily communications.

Strengthening its ability to support partners in all areas of the country, ClearOne has appointed of Muckle Sales to represent ClearOne’s complete portfolio of professional conferencing, communications, and collaboration solutions in the states of Washington, Oregon, and Alaska.

[SCN Hybrid World: Look Up, Listen Up with These 9 Ceiling Mics] 

“Since 1973 Muckle Sales has demonstrated its ability to provide commercial audiovisual system solutions that meet the needs of partner integrators and their end-user customers throughout the Pacific Northwest,” ClearOne CEO Derek Graham said. “Their success in helping partners to grow their business is now going to be further enhanced with the addition of ClearOne’s award-winning professional solutions to the company’s portfolio of manufacturers."

“Our mission is to provide an expanding dealer base with the latest in technology and support that they need to thrive in the constantly changing, increasingly important commercial AV industry," said Muckle Sales president Dan Muckle.

[Unpacking 2022's AV/IT Industry Acquisitions, Partnerships, Restructuring, and Re-branding] 

“Our success is based on our commitment to work closely every day with salespeople, training and educating them, and most importantly, making the maximum number of end user calls with them. We are experienced sales professionals committed to the customers we serve across all vertical markets,” he continued. “We look forward to presenting the ClearOne portfolio to all of our customers.”

When specialty tax consulting agency McGuire Sponsel initiated a recent office renovation and expansion at its headquarters in Indianapolis’ Capital Center complex, company leadership decided it was the right time to upgrade their audio and video equipment to improve meeting and conferencing experiences.

Working with local communications integration firm Chrismin Communications, McGuire Sponsel chose to integrate ClearOne solutions including the BMA 360- Beamforming Microphone Array Ceiling Tile, Unite 200 12x zoom PTZ video camera, and CONVERGE 2 Pro DSP. These innovative solutions combine to elevate the company’s meetings and collaboration capabilities through enhanced audio clarity, rejection of reverb and noise, camera tracking, and a clutter-free room aesthetic.

“Our initial involvement with this project focused on upgrading the existing data infrastructure and office expansion, and once on site, discussions with the owners quickly identified videoconferencing as a sore spot in daily operations,” said Chris Freeman, president of Chrismin Communications. “As a longtime ClearOne dealer and proponent, I knew ClearOne’s flagship BMA 360 microphone and Unite 200 camera would deliver vastly improved audio and video performance while adding valuable special features that simplify running a meeting and ensure consistent clarity, even in busy or dynamic meeting environments.”

[SCN Hybrid World: Look Up, Listen Up with These 9 Ceiling Mics] 

McGuire Sponsel’s main conference room had existing AV equipment that was showing its age and had become troublesome to operate, discouraging use and causing frequent interruptions. The revamped space with a full ClearOne conferencing solution now offers employees simple, reliable operations and vastly improved audio and video quality. One of the client’s specific challenges was that the pickup pattern of their existing microphones was too wide, so passing fire trucks from a nearby firehouse would frequently interrupt meetings. Since installing the BMA 360 with noise and echo cancellation, the company says external noise pickup is minimized and meeting hosts can breeze through presentations or discussions without worrying about interruptions.

The main conference room system also includes four 6-inch in-ceiling speakers to ensure every participant can hear clearly. In order to optimize the simplicity and functionality of meetings, Chrismin Communications wisely chose to specify the ClearOne CONVERGE Pro 2 48VT DSP, which enables integration with VoiP audio services so the ClearOne microphone audio can be routed to McGuire Sponsel’s familiar VoiP service. The room includes a control system as well, and the integrator added a wireless tablet to provide fast access and control of all the room’s equipment.

[Return to Office 2023]

For ultimate convenience, the integrator also installed a ClearOne Bluetooth Wall Panel that allows any user to instantly connect their mobile device or laptop to the room’s audio equipment and enjoy superior sound quality through whichever mobile collaboration platform is utilized. The Bluetooth pairing name for the room can be customized for quick selection and assurance.

The BMA 360 is a powerful beamforming microphone array that uses over 100 MEMS microphones to achieve stunning accuracy, range, pickup quality and differentiation. It’s designed to look like a traditional ceiling tile and blend into drop-ceilings, making it an aesthetically pleasing solution that can be easily integrated into almost any space without impacting the feel of the room. With the option to use power over ethernet (PoE), P-link cables that can connect multiple BMA 360s up to 200 feet apart, and the included onboard 15-Watt amplifier enabling speakers to connect directly to the ceiling tile, installation can be greatly simplified.

“They also wanted to eliminate as much tech and wire clutter as possible, which included keyboards, computer mice and a tangle of cables under the table,” Freeman added. “So, we added wireless PC peripherals, housed the PC inside the leg of the new conference table, eliminated all visible wires and installed the ClearOne app on the tablet to enable instant meeting setup and use of ClearOne’s free COLLABORATE Space video conferencing and meeting platform.”

[Who's Ready for Hybrid?] 

Chrismin Communications also used ClearOne gear to outfit a second, slightly smaller meeting space, dubbed the War Room. The room’s technology includes a ClearOne BMA CT, like the BMA 360, along with a controller that enables BYOD connections, so anyone can plug in their laptop via USB. A Unite 50 4K ePTZ camera provides excellent coverage, quality, and remote control, while two, 4-inch in-ceiling speakers ensure audio playback is legible throughout the room. A Bluetooth Wall Panel adds instant connectivity for audio meetings, offering the same setup and capabilities as the main conference room.

Both the main conference room and the War Room include a flat panel television that connects with the room’s system. ClearOne’s equipment is compatible with all major online collaboration platforms including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Meet and COLLABORATE Space.

[AV Network's top stories, product news, and expert insights] 

“All other concerns aside, the greatest need for this client was superior audio performance, both in terms of microphone pickup and speaker playback, so that all parties in all locations can hear speakers and discussions clearly”, Freeman said. “The BMA 360’s innovative technology and design delivers up to 20 decibels of extra gain boost before feedback compared to omni-directional mics, can accurately identify and track the location of a moving speaker, and combines with tracking cameras to provide automated meeting capture without requiring a human to control angles or zooms.”

Clear One and its Board of Directors has appointed Derek Graham as chief executive officer (CEO), effective January 24. 2023.

Graham was appointed to the role of interim CEO in May 2022. "Derek Graham has provided strong and decisive leadership in the last few months and navigated the company through a particularly challenging time," said Eric Robinson, chairman of the Board of Directors. "I am confident that Derek will continue to guide ClearOne through the next phase of growth. The Board and I are delighted to appoint Derek as ClearOne's CEO."

[SCN Hybrid World: Derek Graham, Industry Experts with Tips on Ceiling Mics] 

Graham joined ClearOne in 2003 as a lead engineer and rose through the ranks. He has overseen the development and introduction of multiple generations of professionally installed audio and video conferencing, video streaming, wireless microphone, digital signage, and camera products. Graham has authored 13 patents, including many patents that are critical to ClearOne's success.

[Pro AV 2023: Trends to Watch] 

“I am very grateful for this opportunity and thank the Board of Directors for expressing faith in my abilities to steer ClearOne to the next level. ClearOne is a truly unique and talented organization with a proud history of pioneering product innovation. I look forward to continuing my work with this amazing team to deliver great results to our investors, channel partners, end users, and other stakeholders," noted Graham.

ClearOne expanded its line of UNITE PTZ Cameras with the debut of the UNITE 260 Pro Camera. The professional grade 4K Ultra HD camera features both a 20X optical zoom and 16X digital zoom that allows users to capture every participant in all meeting, training, and learning environments it is deployed in.

The new camera features an AI-based smart face tracking mode that keeps a selected presenter in the frame as they move about the room. Alternatively, the camera’s AI-based auto framing mode always keeps an entire group in perfect view. With dual video outputs HDMI and IP, the UNITE 260 Pro Camera is an excellent choice for a hybrid environment: streaming content while simultaneously showing it live where the presentation is occurring.

[SCN Hybrid World: Seeing Is Believing with Conference Cameras] 

The camera’s advanced algorithms enable the lens to focus quickly and accurately. Camera functions can be controlled by USB, Ethernet, RS-485, and RS-232, providing users with maximum flexibility of usage. 

 “The new UNITE 260 Pro Camera is an ideal addition to any video conferencing, distance learning, or lecture capture system being used in large conference rooms, training centers, and classrooms,” explained ClearOne interim CEO Derek Graham. “For example, in many classrooms, the most convenient location for camera placement for lecture capture is on the rear wall of the room. In large classrooms, that can be 40 feet to 50 feet (~12 to ~15 meters) away from the instructor. In a room like that, the 20X optical zoom provided by the UNITE 260 can make a huge difference in the ability of the camera to provide a clear picture of the instructor and any instructional aids being presented. Also, the AI based smart face tracking gives presenters the freedom to move around the entire space during their presentations.”

A high SNR CMOS sensor combined with 2D, and 3D noise reduction algorithms deliver a super clean image—even under low light conditions. Compatible with all popular meeting applications like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, WebEx, and Google Meet, the UNITE 260 Pro supports USB 3.0 and 2.0 interfaces, and the USB interface supports YUY2, MJPEG, and H.264 video formats. It streams AV-over-IP using H.264 and H.265 video compression and can be powered by PoE, or 12V DC power sources.

[Everything You Need for ISE 2023: The AV Network ISE 2023 News Hub]  

The new ClearOne UNITE 260 Pro Camera is the latest addition to a growing line of professional UNITE Cameras offered by ClearOne to meet a wide range of applications and environments. The entire line of ClearOne UNITE PTZ Cameras will be on display at ISE 2023 in Barcelona, Spain at Booth 2V650.

ClearOne and AVer have a co-development initiative that certifies AVer’s Pro AV Cameras and PTZ Link software to be fully compatible with ClearOne’s CONVERGE Pro 2 DSP and BMA 360 Beamforming Microphone Array.

The collaboration leverages the powerful capabilities of ClearOne’s BMA 360 ceiling tile beamforming microphone arrays to direct the tracking features of the AVer cameras through their PTZ Link software.

“Through this collaboration, ClearOne and AVer have expanded the functionality of the AVer PTZ Link software to provide compatibility with ClearOne’s CONVERGE Pro 2 Series DSPs and award-winning BMA 360,” said Derek Graham, ClearOne’s interim CEO. “This allows our integrator partners to offer their customers real-time voice activated camera tracking while using Microsoft Teams, Zoom, WebEx and other popular PC based conferencing services.”

[SCN Hybrid World: Look Up, Listen Up with These 9 Ceiling Mics] 

The ClearOne BMA 360 beamforming microphone array incorporates over 100 high quality MEMS microphones and uses advanced digital signal processing algorithms to form a frequency-invariant beam pattern with extremely low sidelobes enabling it to pick up and track audio from the active talker. AVer’s PTZ Link software and Pro AV Cameras provide tracking functionality for the video side of the conferencing equation, so integrators can design and implement fully automated solutions that are simple to operate and provide class-leading quality and performance.

“We leveraged AVer’s PTZ Link software to provide seamless compatibility between our companies’ hardware and software. Now, whenever a BMA 360’s microphone zone is activated, an automatic command is sent to the PTZ functions of AVer’s Pro AV Cameras to pan and zoom to perfectly frame the desired subject,” Graham added. “ClearOne is always striving to provide end users with the best experiences. One of the unique features of the CONVERGE Pro 2 DSPs is the ability to manage up to three BMA 360 microphones with one DSP. With AVer’s cameras and PTZ Link software, a room as large as 100 ft can now be easily designed to incorporate voice tracking. This gives our integrator partners the ability to offer voice tracking capability with fully compatible camera and audio gear for small, medium, large and very large conference rooms, classrooms or other types of meeting spaces.”

[35 Best Audio Products to Ensure High-Quality Sound]

The key to the compatibility is AVer’s PTZ Link software, which can be hosted on a Windows or Mac OS X computer and provides data communication between signal processors and peripherals without requiring a separate controller unit.

“AVer is excited to help advance the state of video collaboration through partnerships that encourage broader use and break down barriers to adoption,” said AVer CEO Andy Hsi. “We look forward to working with ClearOne to continue pushing the industry forward and making it easier for integrators and their clients to achieve their dream installations and optimize meeting efforts.”

[AV Network's top stories, product news, and expert insights] 

The collaboration resulted from direct demand among distribution and integration partners, and ClearOne is now actively pursuing partnerships with leading hardware manufacturers to improve cross-platform performance and raise the standards of virtual collaboration industry-wide.

ClearOne and Shure jointly announced that they have reached a global settlement of all pending legal disputes.  In order to avoid the expense, burden, and uncertainty associated with litigation and to resolve their pending cases against one another, the companies entered into a confidential settlement agreement. 

The companies have agreed to file dismissals with prejudice in all pending cases to fully and finally resolve their disputes. Both parties have agreed to release the other party from all claims and to cross-license all patent rights involved with the cases, such that each party will be free to sell their products without restrictions going forward. 

[AV Network's top stories, product news, and expert insights] 

The companies have also agreed to cross-license certain additional patent rights and have made covenants not to sue. Certain terms of the agreement between the parties are conditional on court action and/or approval, which the parties will promptly seek. Neither company admitted any wrongdoing or liability as a condition of settlement, and neither company provided additional comments or details on the settlement to SCN.

Welcome to hybrid life, 2022. Whether you’re in the classroom or conference room, you now have to consider both remote and in-person participants. That makes having pristine sound and high-performing video equipment more important than ever.

Systems Contractor News looks into just a few of these solutions in our newest series: SCN Hybrid World. Starting with speakerphones, we look to provide a list of resources and solutions with tips from the experts behind some the biggest names and products on the market. 

This article will be updated with new products and features, so be sure to check back often. (Most recent update: 12/6/2022)

SCN Hybrid World

• 11 Speakerphones for Today's Workspace (published April 24, 2022)
• Look Up, Listen Up with These 9 Ceiling Mics (published June 1, 2022)
• 17 Video Conferencing Cameras: Plus Expert Tips for Choosing the Right One (published June 27, 2022)
• SCN Hybrid World Review: 4 Selling Points for the Shokz OpenComm UC Headset (published Oct. 3, 2022)
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11 Speakerphones for Today's Workspace

As workplaces slowly begin to fill up once again, conferencing in the new normal has a different look. Whether it’s a conference room, workspace, or home office, speakerphones need to be flexible for the hybrid age and accommodate both the remote and in-person employee.

The meeting space itself has also changed. “I think our mindset has changed so much to automatically select larger distances from people and that’s a part of COVID that will stay with us,” said Holger Stoltze, senior director of technical sales and marketing for Yamaha Unified Communication. “And that means the open meeting space is growing. The whole audio and noise problem becomes a completely new one in that environment.”

Having the right speakerphone with high-quality audio for those present and connected to the call is imperative—but that doesn’t mean manufacturers had to reinvent the wheel. “It’s not so much new technology as it is leveraging a familiar tool in new ways,” said Lauren Simmen, director of product marketing for Crestron. “Having a phone that allows for a conversation that’s separated from the laptop you’re using to take notes or adjust that critical PowerPoint can be a really efficient means of communication.”

See all 11 speakerphones here. 

Look Up, Listen Up with These 9 Ceiling Mics

Having crystal-clear audio is more important than ever, with those calling in not wanting to miss anything their in-person colleagues have to say. That's where ceiling microphones and beamforming technology come into play.

Simply put, a beamforming mic is “an array of microphones that use a beamforming algorithm to combine the signal of separate mics into a single stronger output signal," according to Chris Swartz, product manager for Sony Electronics. However, not all beamforming mics are the same.

Finding the right beamforming ceiling microphone is good for a wide variety of use cases, be it in an educational or corporate setting. Along with beamforming technology, there are quite a few benefits ceiling mics offer versus other types of conferencing equipment.

Find out more about these nine ceiling mics.

Seeing Is Believing with These 17 Conference Cameras

The hybrid life is not only upon us, but seemingly here to stay. Seeing and being seen are important parts of the new age of conferencing and collaboration, because it keeps participants—from colleagues to students—engaged and actively part of the conversation.

Every environment is a little different. Corporate presentations in large boardrooms may need a different approach than those for smaller huddle rooms. So, where do you even begin to look for the right solution?

“There are a number of things to consider,” explained Tony McCool, country manager for MAXHUB UCC solutions. "What is the size of the room? How many people will be in meetings? Where is the preferred camera location? What platform will you be using, or will you need flexibility of platforms? Do you want a dedicated room solution, or will you use your own laptop? Will meeting participants wish to share content from their laptops or mobile devices on to the display? Once we know these answers, we can then progress to understanding the ideal camera solutions.”

Find out more here.

SCN Hybrid World Review: 4 Selling Points for the Shokz OpenComm UC Headset (reviewed by Mark J. Pescatore)

Like many of you, I’m always in the market for a good headset. Whether it’s in-ear or over-the-ear, I’ve been using headsets for decades during phone interviews (and videoconferences in more recent years) to keep my hands free to type. So, when Shokz invited me to test its new OpenComm UC headset, which doesn’t put a speaker on or in your ear, I was intrigued. Here’s what I learned.

Better Heard, Not Seen: Industry Experts Offer Installation Advice In-Ceiling Speakers

They say seeing is believing. But what happens when you don’t want to be seen?

In today’s evolving world of hybrid classrooms, meeting rooms, and even houses of worship, having the right technology is important, especially when needing to be heard. However, the right speaker can be invasive, with wires and bulky devices taking away from the aesthetics of the venue. In-ceiling speakers sound like an easy choice—but they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution.

“The choice of in-ceiling speakers boils down to weighing coverage versus imaging and soundstage,” said Randy Blanchard, director of audio for Vanco. “They’re not appropriate for environments with extremely high ceilings—an eight-story hotel lobby, for instance. There are also times where you’re going for a strong directional, like live sound reinforcement, where you really want a point-source system.”

So, when are in-ceiling speakers right for your project? Read more to find out.

More to come...

This is your hub for all things hybrid. Is there a solution you're looking for? Let us know on LinkedIn or Twitter.

ClearOne has unveiled its UNITE 160 4K camera.

This new camera offers organizations cutting-edge 4K UHD performance with 12x optical zoom capabilities, remote-controlled mechanical pan and tilt as well as AI-powered smart face tracking and auto framing. This camera is designed to capture all participants in large rooms while enabling automated focus on a moving presenter, making it ideal for larger spaces including board rooms, training centers, conference rooms, and classrooms. 

[SCN Hybrid World: Seeing Is Believing with Conference Cameras] 

“Modern expectations for efficiency and flexibility require businesses, government entities, and educational institutions to ensure employees, educators, and students have access to clear, uninterrupted virtual communications solutions,” said ClearOne Interim CEO Derek Graham. “The new UNITE 160 4K camera enables integrators and technology buyers to implement enterprise-grade video communications that can be paired with our innovative conferencing systems, such as the Versa Lite CT, to deliver easy-to-use meeting rooms with impressive performance.”

Previously, ClearOne’s solution for camera tracking included the CONVERGE Pro 2 DSP mixer, one or more BMA 360 ceiling tile microphone arrays, and a camera tracking module for Crestron, AMX, or Extron. Although that is still the best configuration for multi-camera and multi-beamformer installations, ClearOne’s new camera offers an integrated AI-based camera tracking solution for rooms that are a fit for a single Versa Lite CT and a single camera. This new lower cost camera tracking configuration eliminates the need for a DSP mixer and a control system.

[ClearOne Launches New Wide-Angle 4K ePTZ Camera—Here's What to Know]

The UNITE 160 4K camera supports all leading virtual meeting platforms including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Meet, WebEx, and GoToMeeting.

Challenging lighting conditions are no match for the camera’s advanced 2D and 3D noise reduction, which ensures excellent visuals free of artifacts or grain. Camera control is attained through an IR remote, RS-232 connection, or UVC/UAC protocols, offering broad integration with control and automation systems.

What new products have sparked the interest of Pro AV professionals this year? We reviewed the product announcements published on avnetwork.com since January 2022. The following group includes products from articles that earned the most clicks from curious readers. In other words, we’re not picking favorites—we’re picking your favorites!

Barix Paging Gateway M400

The Paging Gateway M400 hardware enables paging from smartphones into almost any existing analog public address system. Users can easily send announcements through a web browser (no app needed) from Android, iOS mobile phones, or and computer on the local network. The hardware can also be used to extend Barix’s advanced IC complete, IP-based paging and two-way intercom platform in schools, businesses, and public facilities. This enables mobile phones and computers to be used as zone-capable paging stations in new or existing IC paging deployments. The user simply selects the zones to page into, and IC paging automatically routes the announcements to the right speakers or zone amplifiers. Access protection ensures only authorized personnel can use the system.

ClearOne DIALOG 10 USB Wireless Mic

Plug-and-play simplicity and wireless convenience come together in this single-channel wireless microphone. Ideal for webcasting and cloud-based collaboration through Microsoft Teams, Zoom, WebEx, GoToMeeting, and other apps, the DIALOG 10 is also ideal for public events, live streaming, classroom presentations, and conferences. An included USB-C cable connects to any PC for audio, power, and control. Wide audio bandwidth provides superior speech clarity, and ultra-low audio latency significantly enhances the audio experience. Offering a robust frequency-hopping, spread-spectrum technology, with no frequency license restrictions worldwide, the auto-scan feature finds open channels for optimal reception, and standards-based FIPS 197 AES-128 encryption ensures a secure link for wireless audio. 

Crestron VC-4 Virtual Control Enhancements

Crestron's enhanced software platform enables enterprise IT managers to deploy and scale room configurations quickly without sacrificing functionality. Crestron VC-4 allows IT specialists to design and configure a room’s UC, AV, and control solutions, save those configurations, and then automate them in a fraction of the time, significantly cutting down labor costs for common applications by streamlining the custom configuration experience. Since it is integrated with standard programming languages, including C# for IT and SIMPL for AV professionals, it does not require any new training to execute. VC-4 also comes equipped with the XiO Cloud Technology Operations Management platform, providing device lifecycles management, control, and remote support to maintain operational standards and maximize room uptime efficiently at scale, while providing enhanced data insights from a single dashboard.

HuddleCamHD SimplTrack Lite

This zero-setup, plug-and-play auto-tracking camera features flexible options for nearly any setting, as well as built-in compatibility for a range of system configurations. Users can simply unbox the camera, plug it into a USB 2.0 connection, and start recording or streaming with motion tracking—no software setup required. Thanks to its 20x optical zoom, the 1080p camera can be positioned up to 50 feet away from the subject. With a 59.5-degree field of view and 270 degrees of rotation, those being recorded are free to move about the tracking area. Fully compatible with most videoconferencing, lecture capture, and learning management systems, it can be easily integrated with practically any existing hardware due to its NDI|HX, USB, IP, SDI and HDMI output options.

HYPERVSN SmartV

The HYPERVSN SmartV Platform opens the possibility of interactive holographic content, as the platform is built on Android, which enables customers to develop custom widgets for their brand. In 2022, a larger but lighter 3000-nit HYPERVSN SmartV high-bright model launched, which can be connected to camera, voice, and tablet controls. Other external triggers, such as motion sensors or Internet data sources, can be used to trigger the HYPERVSN SmartV display, providing the user with a completely interactive experience. Committed to sustainability, the enhanced SmartV uses fewer pixels to create the same high-resolution imaging, with the new HYPERVSN SmartV devices having a power consumption rate below 50W on average. 

JBL Professional SRX900 Series

The SRX900 Series offers a complete system solution—including speakers, subwoofers, and accessories—that support a range of configurations and simplify storage, transport, and rigging. The latest family from JBL Professional includes dual 6.5-inch and dual 10-inch powered line array elements and 18-inch and dual 18-inch powered subwoofers, making it ideal for rental companies, fixed installations, and musicians seeking the combination of performance and portability. SBX900 Series speakers showcase acoustic innovations like JBL’s patented Radiation Boundary Integrator (RBI), which mounts both the high and low-frequency transducers on a single horn, improving horizontal dispersion while minimizing cabinet size. SRX900 models feature built-in DSP that provides everything users need to optimize and tune their systems, including 24-band parametric EQ, 2,000ms of delay, and gain control.

LG 136-inch All-in-One dvLED

The new 136-inch All-in-One DVLED display from LG Business Solutions USA combines a 1080p screen, on-board webOS controller, and built-in speakers to offer immediate operation in virtually any environment. With the new model, technology integrators can say goodbye to complicated installation procedures and wiring. The display can be installed in one day and includes every component necessary to serve a variety of needs and installation locations. Operating at up to 500 nits of brightness and featuring a 4.6mm bezel, 1.56mm pixel pitch, and total resolution of 1920x1080, the display has a rated lifespan of 100,000 hours to half-brightness. LG designed the cable-free LED modules to literally snap in using a magnetic tool, making the process virtually foolproof for integrators, and enabling much faster installation than other dvLED display options.

Meyer Sound Panther Line Array Loudspeakers

The Panther family consists of three cabinets with different horizontal coverage patterns: the Panther-M (95 degrees), Panther-W (110 degrees), and Panther-L (featuring an all-new long throw horn with a tightly defined 80-degree horizontal pattern). Panther also features new, longer-excursion, 12-inch low-frequency cone drivers and new 3-inch compression drivers. Each incorporates advanced magnet structures using new materials for higher flux density despite substantial weight reduction. Combined with a new LF port design, Panther has a maximum peak output of more than 150 dB SPL. Weighing only 150 pounds, Panther is a significantly lighter box than anything in its class. Reduced weight means more Panther loudspeakers can be flown on a single motor, and larger arrays can share the same truss and hang points with extensive video and lighting gear. 

QSC Q-SYS NM Series

The NM Series tabletop network microphone and loudspeakers—powered by the Q-SYS OS—have joined the Q-SYS NC Series conference cameras and Q-SYS TSC Series Gen 3 network touchscreen controllers as a complete suite of native, IP-based collaboration products for designers, consultants, integrators, and IT end users. The NM-T1 is a tabletop PoE network microphone that features advanced beamforming technology with four software-configurable zones and up to 360-degree coverage, allowing designers to minimize noise and refine intelligibility for optimal collaboration experiences. The NL Series loudspeakers offer three enclosure types, all delivering optimal speech and music reproduction to any modern collaboration space. As native Q-SYS products designed to work seamlessly together, the NM Series microphone, NL Series soundbar, and TSC Series Gen 3 touchscreen controllers benefit from the new Q-SYS Call Sync technology.

Shure MXA920 Ceiling Mic

With Automatic Coverage technology, MXA920 provides pre-configured audio capture with minimal setup required, reducing the time and cost of deployments for integrators. The MXA920 also employs next-generation array architecture for enhanced directional pickup and more natural speech. The onboard IntelliMix DSP delivers noise and echo-free performance as well as audio clarity and intelligibility for AV conferencing across room types—executive boardrooms, higher education hybrid classrooms, corporate, and government meeting spaces. Two form factors (square and round) support design integration into even the most sophisticated facilities and meeting spaces. The MXA920 is also certified for Microsoft Teams and has versatile mounting options for in-ceiling, on-ceiling, pole, or wire rope installations.

ClearOne has unveiled a new wide angle 4K USB camera featuring AI-powered smart face and voice tracking, along with electronic PTZ (pan/tilt/zoom) capabilities, the ClearOne UNITE 60 4K camera. This new camera will be sold through ClearOne’s commercial channels.

With a 120-degree field of view, and a plug-and-play USB 3.0 connection for video, control, and power, the new UNITE 60 camera is ideally suited for rooms such as executive offices, huddle rooms or smaller conference rooms.

[SCN Hybrid World: ClearOne's Derek Graham Discusses the Dos and Don'ts of Ceiling Mics]

“ClearOne is consistently advancing what’s possible for virtual collaboration to help companies, knowledge workers and educators communicate clearly and efficiently across the globe,” said ClearOne interim CEO Derek Graham. “With ultra-easy setup, support for all leading virtual meeting platforms, 4K video quality and AI-based tracking of speakers or framing of groups, the UNITE 60 camera fits perfectly in small meeting spaces and home offices while also providing an affordable entry point for classrooms where educators move around and need a tracking camera."

Whether a meeting is held on Microsoft® Teams, Zoom, Google Meet, WebEx or other leading services, the camera’s automatic or remote-controlled digital PTZ ensures remote attendees always have a clear view of local participants. 

[AV Network's top stories, product news, and expert insights] 

The UNITE 60 camera leverages a wide dynamic range and super-high SNR with advanced 2D and 3D noise reduction to deliver excellent visuals across varied lighting conditions. In addition to the AI auto-tracking feature, the camera can also be controlled via IR remote or UVC protocol. The camera can be paired with a wide variety of microphones and speakers. 

The UNITE 60 camera can be mounted to any monitor using its standard damping rotary shaft support. 

Demonstrating its ongoing commitment to the residential market, ClearOne will return to CEDIA 2022 to showcase its line of Aura professional grade work-from-home audio and video collaboration solutions at Booth #8039.

Builders, architects, designers, contractors, and CEDIA professionals play an important role in offering best-in-class conferencing and collaboration solutions for a hybrid work environment.

"We now know that work-from-home is no longer temporary,” ClearOne interim CEO Derek Graham said. “At a time when dedicated home offices are getting complete professional upgrades, we’re thrilled to connect with integrators at this year’s CEDIA to discuss how ClearOne solutions can help them thrive in this new technological landscape.”

[SCN Hybrid World: Look Up, Listen Up with These 9 Ceiling Mics] 

Aura meets the growing need for easy to install commercial quality solutions that deliver HDConference audio and true-to-life video technology through a variety of professional collaboration solutions with choices of microphone and camera components that provide the best user experience.

“CEDIA professionals can serve as a one-stop source offering the widest selection of professional home office solutions from high-end beamforming microphone arrays with built-in DSP processing and Bluetooth connectivity to a spectrum of home office cameras and audio components under a single industry brand that is recognized around the world for quality and reliability,” Graham added.

At CEDIA 2022, featured solutions include the DIALOG 10 USB and Aura Versa Mediabar. For the home office, the DIALOG 10 is perfect for webcasting and cloud-based collaboration with easy, fast high-quality audio. The Versa Mediabar is an all-in-one collaboration video soundbar with natural-sounding audio and true-to-life video for huddle and small meeting spaces.

[AV Network's top stories, product news, and expert insights] 

Also highlighted is the Aura Xceed BMA beamforming microphone array that can easily install on your home office ceiling and provide superior audio performance. Xceed BMA includes powerful features such as audio beamforming, a built-in amplifier and acoustic echo and noise cancellation full-duplex audio, so all call participants can speak and be heard clearly.

After upgrading its CONVERGENCE AV Manager solution to provide users with more power, information, control, and ease of use, ClearOne introduced its network hardware CONVERGENCE InSite Server that enables bi-directional communications between its Cloud or Enterprise AV Manager and on-site ClearOne Pro Audio products.

[SCN Hybrid World: Look Up, Listen Up with These 9 Ceiling Mics]

Working together, they are designed to excel in a range of applications that include local AV system maintenance, device status monitoring, remote AV device control, equipment auditing, help desk operations and single-pane-of-glass business intelligence. The new CONVERGENCE InSite Server can serve customers in many verticals, including office buildings, convention centers, education, corporate campuses, global enterprises, multi-site organizations, and large government deployments, among others.

Key InSite Server feature highlights include:

• The CONVERGENCE Local Agent software comes pre-installed and ready to deploy.
• InSite server setup and registration is simple and painless using a web browser.
• Users can get up and running quickly with auto discovery of all supported devices on multiple subnets without the need of labor-intensive, individual device registration.
• Plenty of storage for InSite logs and backup configuration files of managed devices.
• Small footprint with a solid-state drive, auto power on, and a fanless enclosure for 24/7 high reliability.
• Includes extra ports for additional network connections, or optional keyboard, video, and mouse for servicing.
• Integrates with third-party management systems via a RESTful web interface.
• The Local Agent software is also available for free download and self-installation on Windows or Linux with a CONVERGENCE Cloud or Enterprise account.

The ClearOne CONVERGENCE AV Manager, available in Cloud or Enterprise versions using Local Agent servers, is a unified software platform to monitor, control, and audit ClearOne Pro Audio products from any location worldwide.

[SCN Hybrid World: 11 Speakerphones for Today's Workspace] 

The Cloud AV Manager service offers multi-tenant Management as a Service (MaaS) on a single pane of glass, enabling recurring revenue opportunities for AV practitioners, tailored to their clients’ needs. The Enterprise AV Manager software is self-maintained and hosted on-premises, or privately in the cloud by an organization, for complete control and security.

The hybrid life is not only upon us, but seemingly here to stay. Seeing and being seen are important parts of the new age of conferencing and collaboration, because it keeps participants—from colleagues to students—engaged and actively part of the conversation.

Every environment is a little different. Corporate presentations in large boardrooms may need a different approach than those for smaller huddle rooms. So, where do you even begin to look for the right solution?

“There are a number of things to consider,” explained Tony McCool, country manager for MAXHUB UCC solutions. "What is the size of the room? How many people will be in meetings? Where is the preferred camera location? What platform will you be using, or will you need flexibility of platforms? Do you want a dedicated room solution, or will you use your own laptop? Will meeting participants wish to share content from their laptops or mobile devices on to the display? Once we know these answers, we can then progress to understanding the ideal camera solutions.”

Since corporate meeting spaces, classrooms, and even home offices come in a variety of shapes and sizes, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Ensuring that everyone can be seen and heard is imperative toward achieving meeting equity (a term that continues to gain ground in the industry).

”A good rule of thumb is the smaller the room, the wider the angle," McCool added. "Large rooms are fine with PTZ-style cameras with an 80-degree angle or so. Medium rooms—120-degree cameras are ideal where the participants at the front can be located far enough from the camera to still be visible. For the smallest rooms or huddle spaces where people are very close to the camera, 180-degree cameras are ideal, or perhaps the new generation of 360-degree cameras, which can be placed in the center of the table."

[SCN Hybrid World: Look Up, Listen Up with These 9 Ceiling Mics]

As the hybrid workplace continues to evolve, it seems an endless amount of audio solutions—like speakerphones and ceiling mics—plus a wide range of conference cameras are available. Another factor to consider is whether it is wiser to piecemeal a videoconferencing solution together or look for an all-in-one solution.

"One of the many advantages in an all-in-one solution is the ability to ensure optimization and certifications for the most popular UC platforms," said Peter Nutley, product expert for collaboration and public sector at Jabra. "Wherever team members are, and whatever collaboration hub they are using, they are able to connect with each other as well as clients, partners, customers, and just about anyone in an instant. In addition, all-in-one solutions greatly reduce meeting room installation, setup, and commissioning times."

Of course, audio quality is a must for an all-in-one solution. Many conference cameras include innovative technology to block unwanted noises.

“If remote participants are struggling with poor audio coming from conference rooms, it’s affecting the quality of their meetings,” Nutley said. ”Offer them a solution that combines the best of all worlds, with industry-leading professional audio and innovative 180-degree video, facilitating natural conversations no matter where they’re working.”

As with any product category, the extra bells and whistles are sometimes just a nice add on, while other times increase the efficiency and performance of the camera. Take speaker tracking, for example.

“Effective speaker tracking, or auto framing, helps the remote participants joining the meeting room feel more like they have an equal seat at the table,” Nutley explained. “Without effective auto framing, far-end participants can struggle with even knowing who exactly is in the meeting room, let alone who is talking. Our intelligent software uses our AI technology to understand what’s happening in the room and react accordingly, perfectly framing active speakers. The result is a meeting experience that’s been completely reinvented, making remote collaboration more dynamic with a real human touch.”

[SCN Hybrid World: 11 Speakerphones for Today's Workspace]

“We also provide solutions for front-facing cameras that combine fixing on a room area, person, or whiteboard as well as tracking a presenter at the same time,” McCool added. “This could be useful in training environments. Just as important could be the quick and easy way of switching tracking off and to utilize pre-set camera positions.”

Welcome to the world of conference cameras. Here are several current offerings with a variety of feature sets to consider.

AVer VB342 Pro

AVer’s VB342 Pro is equipped with a 4K PTZ camera to deliver crisp imagery in any meeting. Featuring a 92-degree optical lens with 15x zoom, the VB342 Pro delivers true-to-life video quality. The VB342 Pro includes AVer’s Audio Fence and beamforming technology to ensure outstanding sound for small to medium-sized meeting rooms. AVer Audio Fence technology is designed to turn any space into an uninterrupted meeting zone by silencing any distraction outside the viewing angle.

Bose Videobar VB-S

The Bose Videobar VB-S is a compact, all-in-one conferencing device that’s quick and easy to install, bringing premium audio and video to smaller spaces such as meeting booths, huddle spaces, and rooms up to 10x10 feet. Four beam-steering microphones automatically focus on voices in the room and reject noise. A 4K UHD camera with Group Mode and Individual Mode delivers crystal-clear video—helping remote participants feel like they’re in the room—while signature Bose sound supports multimedia presentations, plays Bluetooth audio, and ensures voices on the call sound natural. The sleek, low-profile design helps keep meeting spaces clutter-free. 

Biamp Vidi 150

The Vidi 150 is the latest professional-grade conferencing camera from Biamp for meeting spaces ranging from huddle rooms to medium-sized conference rooms. Designed with extraordinary simplicity for a wide array of use cases, it features a 4K camera with a 120-degree field of view, 8MP sensor, and a built-in mic array. It also adds manual electronic pan/tilt/zoom (ePTZ) with remote controlled, user-definable presets, as well as automatic participant framing and ePTZ. Like the Vidi 100 before it, both are cost-effective solutions offering excellent picture and audio quality.

ClearOne UNITE 180

The ClearOne UNITE 180 4K ePTZ professional-grade camera features a full 180-degree panoramic field-of-view designed for visual collaboration. With real-time stitching, the camera achieves a variety of useful viewing modes for any application and environment, including wide spaces, bringing the views of multiple lenses together as one complete image. Large classroom settings, training centers, or any wide conferencing area are all captured and presented with perfect clarity in any of the camera's six viewing mode options. The 4x zoom capabilities further enhance the UNITE 180 feature set.

DTEN GO with Mate

With the DTEN GO with Mate, transforming any display into a powerful videoconferencing system for Zoom is as easy as connecting via HDMI. The companion DTEN Mate 10-inch touchscreen then pairs with the GO to provide touchscreen control and screen mirroring. The four-camera array covers up to 32 feet with 160-degree horizontal field of view. A 12-microphone array covers the same dimensions, and with DTEN’s Audio AI sound suppression technology, participants can be sure what needs to be heard is, remotely or in person.

EPOS EXPAND Vision 3T

The Vision 3T is an all-in-one conferencing video collaboration solution for today’s smart, hybrid office. With just one touch, participants are in their hybrid meeting with a full Microsoft Teams experience. Collaboration is enhanced with full HD video and innovative voice pickup and noise cancellation technologies powered by EPOS AI. Easy to set up, easy to install and easy to manage, participants can immerse themselves in a natural meeting environment seeing facial expressions, body language, and more in clear detail and audio clarity with 360-dergee coverage from its wide-angle 4K camera with Sony sensor, enhanced PTZ, and superior audio from included EPOS EXPAND 30T.

Hall Technologies HT-CAM-4K-EPTZ

The HT-CAM-4K-EPTZ makes “meetings more meaningful and less stressful” with an easy and convenient-to-install camera designed to automatically do all the work. The sleek form factor houses powerful 4K UHD and is coupled with AI intelligence that can frame according to the number of people in the scene, and the characters are in the middle. The all-in-one solution is designed with advanced ISP processing algorithms to deliver vivid images and streaming for seamless collaboration and connectivity. The auto framing feature works by using a 100-degrees wide-angle lens to ensure all participants and materials can be properly viewed.

HuddleCamHD Pro

The HuddleCamHD Pro is a 4K webcam with electronic PTZ capabilities. Certified by Zoom Video Communications and available with either USB or NDI|HX connectivity, the HuddleCamHD Pro is designed for enterprise. The camera’s intelligent 4K sensor has a wide 108-degree field view with 8x digital zoom. Auto-framing automatically centers the capture area on meeting participants and adjusts as people enter and leave. Users can adjust the capture area with the include remote, or request or provide remote camera control. Positioning is flexible: The HuddlecamHD Pro is equipped with a beamforming dual microphone array that can capture intelligible speech from up to 10 feet away, and the camera cab be clamped to a monitor, attached to a tripod, or mounted to the wall or ceiling.

Jabra PanaCast 50

The Jabra PanaCast 50 intelligent video bar is engineered to help businesses across industries navigate the hybrid way of working. It combines panoramic-4K video technology, professional-grade audio, and AI-driven features to completely reinvent meetings and collaboration for today’s hybrid workforce. PanaCast 50’s intelligent video features ensure that meeting participants have an immersive experience—no matter where they are located. Patented real-time video stitching technology automatically joins the streams from three 13-megapixel cameras, creating a smooth, 180-degree field of view in Panoramic-4K that captures the entire room. Its Virtual Director feature automatically detects who is speaking and intelligently adjusts the video in real time to focus on them for more dynamic collaboration.

Konftel Cam20

The Konftel Cam20 is a Zoom Certified conference camera that revolutionizes the experience and quality of everyday videoconference calls. The plug-and-play device features 4K UHD performance and a 123-degree field of view, allowing participants to receive a clear and balanced image of all colleagues on the call. With WDR technology, the Konftel Cam20 automatically adjusts to any changes in the lighting conditions including sunlight contrast. Hosting interactive conference calls with the Konftel Cam20 can be conducted in a seamless manner due to the auto framing functionality, allowing room participants to always be in frame. The installation process can be done quickly and easily by using the flexible clamp to attach to any desired screen, or by utilizing a stand.

Logitech Rally Bar

The Rally Bar has a motorized lens that covers rooms 130-degrees across by 80-degrees high, with lossless image quality up to 5x optical zoom. The device also has a second built-in camera—AI Viewfinder—dedicated to computer vision that can detect meeting participants to ensure they are automatically seen and included in the frame. This extra information helps optimize RightSight 2, which uses the secondary AI camera to automatically adjust and reframe to include people stepping in and out of the room who are out of sight of the main camera. With RightSight 2, the Primary PTZ camera zooms in on the active speaker while the AI Viewfinder captures a view of everyone in the room.

Lumens MS-10 Soundbar

The MS-10 4K video soundbar is an all-in-one videoconferencing unit incorporating a high-quality auto-framing camera, multiple omnidirectional microphones, and a high-fidelity speaker system. It is ideal for conferencing, collaborating, and unified communications being compliant with all major platforms including (but not limited to) Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and WebEx. It is designed for easy mounting to either a monitor or the wall and enables USB connectivity via Ethernet and IR control.

MAXHUB UC S10 Pro

The UC S10 Pro is easy to understand and set up, making it possible for everyone in the room—from home offices and huddle rooms to large meeting and conferencing spaces—to make their voice heard. Presentations are simplified with one-click wireless screen sharing of up to four screens. With intelligent face recognition, a 120-degree field of view, and auto-framing in spaces of all sizes, all meeting participants are clearly visible. Built-in noise reduction, echo cancellation, and voice pickup leads to fewer distractions. The UC S10 Pro also includes a speakerphone, which makes for easy conversation in rooms of various sizes.

MSolutions MS-4KCam

The MS-4KCam Ultra HD USB camera is built for today’s modern collaboration rooms. Its digital ePTZ capability can magnify portions of the camera’s wide-angle picture (up to 120 degrees), and then reposition the image to fill the frame. The extreme wide angle is ideal for conference rooms and auditoriums, and its low profile and affordability is perfect for smaller rooms including huddle spaces. MSolutions’ new MS-6U1C extender set pairs perfectly with the camera in all installations, allowing a single USB-C data channel to be extended up to 333 feet over a single CATx cable. The MS-6U1C extender now includes a remote powering option for the MS-4KCam as well as third-party conferencing cameras.

NexiGo Iris N1000

The company’s flagship webcam produces 4K video quality closer to a DSLR or mirrorless camera with its 1/1.8-inch 8.5MP Sony Starvis sensor. Put simply, its iris provides DSLR quality but with the convenience and affordability of a webcam. With advanced auto-tracking technology, it keeps the speaker centered if they move. If there are several people in a meeting, it can auto-frame the image to include multiple subjects. Other features include10x digital zoom, picture-in-picture, and dual omnidirectional microphones with noise-cancelling technology.

Nureva XT

The Nureva XT was designed with the classroom in mind, bringing flexible and future-proofed hybrid learning to extend the in-room experience to remote learners. The Nureva XT has solutions for standard-size and large classrooms backed by one of Nureva's innovative audio systems and the Nureva CV30 classroom camera kit. Its Microphone Mist technology combines full-room microphone pickup, in-room voice amplification, and HD camera with an 84-dergee field of view to focus on the front of the classroom. The scalable Nureva XT is easy to install and manage.

Vaddio IntelliSHOT

The IntelliSHOT professional USB camera makes video collaboration and streaming classes easy. Whether auto-framing people around a conference table or tracking the classroom instructor, the IntelliSHOT ePTZ camera delivers foolproof performance. Free remote management and advanced auto-framing configuration allow integration partners to remotely fine-tune system performance for each customer environment. Use in larger spaces with its impressive 30x zoom and easily connect room audio with the built-in audio mixer for an all-in-one videoconferencing system. Plug and play with popular collaboration platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Google Meet. The IntelliSHOT is TAA and Buy America compliant, and includes a three-year warranty, including a first-year advanced replacement program.

As the exclusive global manufacturer of Philips professional displays, PPDS is dedicated to helping integrators learn about and test the latest technologies, products and opportunities that can help grow their businesses. Building on its strategy to bring seamless global business locally, PPDS has launched its first full-solutions showroom in Munich, Germany, featuring cutting-edge Philips professional displays and virtual collaboration systems from ClearOne.

The new 155-square-meter showroom (1,650 square feet) is designed to highlight new solutions for various spaces and client types, with dedicated rooms set up to demonstrate how new technologies can be integrated to optimize conference rooms, meeting rooms, retail spaces, classrooms, hotel guest rooms and even home offices. According to Christian Krela, channel manager for PPDS in Germany, the new Munich showroom is the company’s first demo space to focus on full-room solutions with collaboration and streaming technologies.

“Integrators trust PPDS to provide innovative display products for every kind of project, and the new Munich showroom demonstrates how leading third-party solutions like ClearOne’s collaboration gear can complement our Philips class-leading displays to meet the needs of modern businesses,” Krela said. “We designed this space to ensure local integrators and end customers can gain hands-on experience with whole-room solutions that include displays, cameras, microphones, speakers, and control systems to help them make decisions regarding room designs and technology solutions.”

[SCN Hybrid World: Look Up, Listen Up with These 9 Ceiling Mics] 

Each unique space in the showroom provides an example of an optimized technology implementation. The conference room, for instance, features a nearly invisible ClearOne BMA 360 in-ceiling beamforming microphone and a ClearOne UNITE 200 PTZ 1080p camera, which are connected to a ClearOne CONVERGE Pro 2 DSP without requiring any visible wires. Combined with a variety of display options including an 86-inch touch screen, multiple digital signage displays, and two digital picture frames, this solution provides stunning clarity and simplicity for all virtual collaboration needs. The entire room, including hidden in-wall speakers and a wireless presentation system, is managed by a Crestron control system.

Other rooms feature solutions scaled to various needs and budget ranges, such as the classroom, utilizing a Philips 86-inch interactive touch display in conjunction with a ClearOne UNITE 50 camera, CHAT 150 USB speakerphone and a wireless sharing and presentation solution. Several rooms also make use of the built-in Chromecast feature on the Philips B-Line 75BFL2114.

“We chose various ClearOne solutions for these spaces because they provide stellar performance, are compatible with all the other equipment and software, and can be installed with virtually no visible intrusion into a room’s aesthetic,” Krela added. “We also have employees who work in this building and meet in these rooms, so they needed to be fully functional and deliver superior collaboration experiences for daily use.”

Krela added that they considered other camera and microphone solutions but found that ClearOne was the ideal choice to deliver premium performance without requiring visible boxy components or wires, which would detract from the experience and could impact sales. This is particularly important when demoing to end users who expect a finished, polished design that they can adopt into their own businesses.

[PPDS Adds AV Industry-Leading Talents to North America Team]

“This new showroom is a stunning example of what can be achieved when two world class companies partner to create a state-of-the-art collaboration solution," commented Grifiths Zacharia, CTS, ClearOne associate vice president EMEAIO sales and global alliances. "This remarkable showroom is going to significantly elevate the conferencing experience for every type of business that utilizes the space.  We’re proud to play a major role in bringing this showroom to life."

The showroom officially opened mid-April 2022 at the conveniently located Airport Business Centre near the Munich Airport. 

AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Jessica Lange, Marketing Director at Guntermann & Drunck GmbH (G&D)

For more than 35 years, we have developed our expertise as a KVM manufacturer and are looking forward to showcasing our latest KVM solutions at InfoComm 2022. We use our experience to create the best possible working conditions for control room staff and technicians, which we achieve with our broad, interoperable KVM portfolio. KVM makes it possible to operate multiple physically separated computers from different workstations, thus optimizing the IT infrastructure. Therefore, we place great value on ensuring that users can always rely on the technology running in the background and that focused and intuitive work is possible in control rooms. At InfoComm, visitors will be able to see the latest product highlights from G&D in real-world applications and experience the usability of the products.

The new, high-performance KVM-over-IP extender VisionXS utilizes standard Ethernet networks with up to 10-Gbit bandwidth and therefore requires much less compression at higher display resolutions. G&D's proprietary lossless video compression bluedec transmits pixel-perfect resolutions up to 4K60 and improves the user experience. As a special highlight, the integrated IP-MUX function lets a console device manage multiple target IP addresses from up to 20 computer sources without additional hardware. For simpler applications, the on-screen display can be used to switch between different sources.

To enable employees in control rooms to keep an eye on all content, various screens can be displayed on one large monitor. Particularly exciting for this purpose is the PersonalWorkplace-Controller, a multi-viewing tool that allows up to 26 video sources to be displayed and operated on a single screen depending on the application. AV professionals benefit from a flexible layout, with image quality up to 4K60. The PWC optimizes workflows, where multiple signals need to be monitored. Combining a KVM system with the PWC ensures secure, high-performance, and flexible access to all relevant computer systems. It is also possible to use the PersonalWorkplace-Controller to display the sources on a large video wall.

InfoComm Booth: W1255

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AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Steve Trunkett, Director, Global Sales at SurgeX

It’s been quite a while since SurgeX last hit the InfoComm show floor, but despite how technologies (and everything else) have evolved over the past couple years, one thing remains consistent: Power anomalies are a risk to electronics all over—from the home office to the corporate boardroom to the dealer showroom. A strong power foundation must be in place to keep things up and running. Homes and commercial spaces both rely on more technology than ever, and for InfoComm 2022, SurgeX is excited to bring forth a portfolio of trusted power protection solutions that safeguard AV equipment, ensure performance continuity, and enable remote monitoring. 

The award-winning SQUID power management system will be on display at the SurgeX booth. Providing AC/DC power protection, boxed network control, and analytical software in one compact chassis, SQUID streamlines installation of the most highly sought-after and critical power management and monitoring tools for electronics and AV systems. Integrators no longer have to install a product for AC, another for DC, and yet another to monitor and control the power environment. It is the perfect solution for collaborative flex environments, huddle spaces, and other tight-spaced AV settings.

SurgeX will also display its new line of UPS solutions with built-in isolation transformers. Available in three models, the line-interactive, cost-effective UPS + Isolation Transformer line safeguards sensitive connected equipment by eliminating neutral-ground voltage, reducing lockups, and mitigating downtime by completely isolating connected equipment from the grid and other electronic loads that can pollute the branch circuit. They feature a true sine wave interactive UPS to filter, condition, and stabilize power while simultaneously providing all the benefits of low-impedance isolation transformer technology at the rack level. The SurgeX UPS + Isolation Transformer solutions are virtually silent, making them an ideal match for showrooms, audio systems, and other sound-reliant installations.

InfoComm Booth: W1373

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AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Tomer Mann, CRO at 22Miles

While the past couple of years have been tumultuous to say the least, the evolution of technology has been incredible. We’ve entered the golden age of visual communications, and our team has been hard at work to deliver on integrators’ every demand to best serve their businesses, employees, and customers. Visual communications have gotten more flexible, effective, and easier to deploy. Solutions including digital signage, wayfinding, and space management are taking hold, from venues and hotels to universities and corporate campuses, and they’re getting better with age. 

For InfoComm 2022, we’re thrilled to show off everything we’ve worked to master—and there’s so much to share that we’ll be all over the place. As the content software solution for the Las Vegas Convention Center’s video wall solutions, wayfinding, space management, and more—attendees will be using 22Miles systems to explore the entire show. You’ll be fully immersed in what 22Miles can do from the moment you walk in the door, greeted by massive displays powered by our content management software. You can find our technology everywhere—from the Tesla loop to booths on the show floor—using our interactive wayfinding on the official LVCC app. 

In partnership with leading hardware brands, including Mimo Tablets (N2223), Crestron (W603), Brightsign (N735), Peerless-AV (N2831), Sharp/NEC (N2305), Philips (N2021), and more—22Miles will be present in several booths across the show floor. Swing by to learn and see how the integrated visual communication, 3D wayfinding, Carry2Mobile, room booking, and directory experiences can take your business to the next level.

InfoComm Booths: N2223, N735, N2305, N2021, W603, N2831

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AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Christian Young, Pro AV Product Manager for ATEN Technology

ATEN has been working hard to help our partners meet the new needs for AV and will showcase these solutions at InfoComm 2022. Our company is focused on providing connectivity and control solutions that foster emerging AV environments that enable the amount of interactivity and flexibility required to build a new, better normal. We work with our partners to meet the demands of these new requirements and challenges and to find the best solutions.

We have been working to enable hybrid and remote environments in a variety of industries. Education has new requirements to support remote and in person classrooms and lecture halls. Entertainment has been revolutionized, with new immersive and mixed reality experiences. Office spaces and meeting rooms have transformed to support the hybrid work environment and focus on creating new collaboration spaces.

We are also working with partners to develop immersive environments with our HDBaseT video extenders that meet their needs for long-range AV transmission and quick, responsive equipment. Our video presentation switches, control boxes, and content creation products are being used to transform offices and classrooms into collaborative experiences for both remote and local participants.

I am eagerly looking forward to supporting new AV experiences as the application of collaborative and immersive AV technology is applied in new and unpredictable ways to delight and excite everyone. I believe AV technology is just on the cusp of supporting a new collaborative and immersive world.

InfoComm Booth: N635

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AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Kenneth Mau, Product and Channel Marketing Director at ViewSonic

As we continue to move forward and transition our lives to blend the remote, physical, and virtual into hybrid environments at work and school, the efforts to find suitable collaboration solutions will be ongoing. 

Hybrid environments are an amalgam of fluidity. There is no fixed plan or one-size-fits-all strategy anymore. Just how does a solution provider or manufacturer operate in these new environments? Basically, we work together and offer products and services that meet the demands of these hybrid settings, both in the workspace and in the classroom. We need to deliver products that can be smart and connect employees, teachers, and students. We also need to support our AV partners by designing products that continue to evolve with the changing needs of their customers.

At InfoComm 2022, I believe that we’ll see products and services that accommodate the fluidity of the hybrid environment and fusion of flexible solutions—more interactive and larger screens, products to facilitate collaboration and communication, and products that support a hybrid life. ViewSonic, for example, will be introducing the next generation of ViewBoard interactive displays with the IFP62 and IFP52 series. They are ideal collaboration products that allow businesses and schools to create connected spaces and help teams collaborate. Other products will include portable monitors for added convenience. 

ViewSonic has developed display solutions that can fit in with ever-changing environments. Our AV partners need to have products that are adaptable to their customers’ needs, from seamless connectivity and interactive tools to collaborative technologies and software that allow people to participate in the office, classroom, home, or on the road.

InfoComm Booth: N2612

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AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Sean Sheridan, Regional Technical Manager, Americas at Brompton Technology

Brompton Technology is a specialty manufacturer of LED processors based in London, UK. Since 2012, we’ve been delivering world-class products, with a heavy focus on customers in live events and concert touring. The road-worthiness proven in these areas have helped us make a name for ourselves as the most dependable option LED processing. We also bring a feature set and ease of use that is truly second to none. This is born out in the fact that the very first processors we delivered, 10 years ago, can still be found in working rental inventories today. Those early products are still capable of being updated, as well! 

At InfoComm 2022, we’ll be showing our full range of processors, from the HD-compatible S4 and T1, to our 4K S8 and flagship SX40 units. 

At Brompton, we never stop improving and innovating. One recent example is our Hydra camera measurement system, a product we created due to the lack of capabilities found in off-the-shelf calibration systems for LED. Hydra turns the legacy calibration process on its head, and by truly understanding what each LED on a panel is capable of, our processors are able to achieve a very high level of performance, especially when dealing with HDR sources. We call this process Dynamic Calibration. 

In addition to hardware developments, we’re constantly pushing new feature updates (always free of charge!) in our Tessera software. Over the past couple of years, we’ve found our products being used heavily in broadcast, XR, and virtual production for film. So, our most recently added features have been quality-of-life improvements for using LED in-camera. Some of these latest features are Frame Remapping, ShutterSync, 3D LUT, and camera tracking implementations. Please stop by our booth to say hello and check out the latest developments!

InfoComm Booth: N529

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>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

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>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Bill Hensley, Head of Global Marketing at RTI

Elevating performance and efficiency for integrators will be front and center at the RTI and Blustream booths, which are right next to each other at InfoComm 2022. For RTI, the focus will be on control solutions for a variety of installations, from collaboration spaces to hospitality, with programming made faster by our newly released Integration Designer 11 and its rich, innovative tools that make it easier for integrators to deliver exceptional solutions for every need. It features the all-new "Coral" template, with pre-configured home pages, swappable backgrounds, customizable scroll bars across the touchscreens, and new fonts—all with auto-programming and a built-in driver store that adds efficiency to every project. We’ll illustrate the breadth of control opportunities RTI provides integrators, including new integrations ideal for office environments, 4K UHD Video over IP controlled natively within the RTI environment, plus RTI Music with our new Music Streamers and partnership with SoundMachine streaming music service that can create recurring revenue for integrators. 

Our partner Blustream will showcase award-winning AV distribution solutions, including its lineup of HDBaseT, video over IP, and HDMI distribution products that integrate effortlessly with all the major control platforms, including RTI. From matrixes to multi-format presentation switchers and more, the Blustream philosophy is to make advanced features standard, such as enabling 4K 18Gbps 4:4:4 resolutions across primary Blustream HDMI and HDBaseT products sold in the US. The Blustream Multicast UHD video over IP platform uses lossless compression technology to deliver virtually latency-free HDMI video up to 328 feet over a 1Gb network switch. Innovative new products include the multi-format HEX70HDUK-KIT extender set—an HDMI 2.0 4K 60Hz 4:4:4 (18Gbps) HDCP2.2 HDBaseT solution using CSC technology to deliver HDMI, USB-C, and DisplayPort over a single Cat cable. Audio solutions on display include the new Dante-enabled networked power amplifier—the NPA100DA. For collaboration, the Blustream AMF41W enables a BYOD solution that eliminates the complexity of setting up guest networks.

InfoComm Booths: RTI (W2860), Blustream (W2761)

Roadmaps to IC22: InfoComm 2022 Exhibitors Share Insider's Perspective

Check out the more than 50 Roadmaps here!

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Brian Cockrell, Product Owner and Co-Founder of the Intel Unite solution

The concept of the workplace is changing. It is no longer all about work (in the sense of routine tasks) or about place. Instead, organizations are beginning to embrace the concept of a more flexible approach, where employees’ homes are the place to get things done and the office is the place to figure things out. We are seeing this happen at Intel, where many employees have been given the opportunity to continue to base themselves at home—returning to the office for those activities that benefit from face-to-face interaction, such as collaboration. To keep talented employees, organizations will need to evolve, and the more quickly and seamlessly they can adapt, the more successful they will be. A big part of this evolution will involve the rethinking, and the adding, of collaboration spaces.

The philosophy behind the Intel Unite solution is based on the recognition that evolution is constant, and to meet customers’ needs for fast, frictionless adaptation, a product must not only be able to evolve, but it must be designed to evolve. That’s why our software-based, cloud-delivered collaboration solution uses an open and extensible architecture that allows the seamless integration of a growing library of collaboration-enhancing apps, some developed by Intel, some by our partners, and some—like the new Bose VB1 video bar app—developed jointly. It’s why we offer a publicly available SDK that gives IT and solution partners the freedom to develop custom solutions. 

At InfoComm, we’ll demonstrate not only app integrations like the newly released Google Meet app, but also the many other features that make the Intel Unite solution uniquely adaptable. We’ll also show why it is well positioned for a BYOM world where collaborators must switch seamlessly between in-room, remote, and hybrid scenarios, and where collaboration spaces can vary from touchdown spaces to boardrooms.

InfoComm Booth: W2423

Roadmaps to IC22: InfoComm 2022 Exhibitors Share Insider's Perspective

Check out the more than 50 Roadmaps here!

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Sam Recine, Chair, Pro AV Working Group, AIMS

At InfoComm, AIMS will host its first live interoperability demonstration of Internet Protocol Media Experience (IPMX)—a set of standards-based protocols designed to ensure interoperability for AV over IP. This first-of-a-kind demo will feature networking equipment and hardware and software nodes running both IPMX and SMPTE ST 2110, the standards suite on which IPMX is based. The demo will also highlight gateways between IPMX and other protocols, developer kits, and elements of IPMX-enabled AV-over-IP workflows. 

With this demo at InfoComm 2022, we're passing a critical milestone on the AIMS roadmap for open-standards-based media over IP. We're demonstrating the technical viability of IPMX in terms of multivendor interoperability, and that is pretty exciting! 

Also significant is the high level of industry support the demo signals. Leading manufacturers are building IPMX support into their products, and more companies are continually joining those ranks as we move toward a more flexible, dynamic, IP-based future for pro AV.

Demo partners include Arista Networks, Cisco Systems, intoPix SA, Macnica, Matrox, Ross Video Limited, STAGETEC GmbH, and many others.

IPMX implements a standards-based approach based on SMPTE ST 2110, with features and capabilities that target the specific needs of the pro AV industry. In addition to simplifying implementation of SMPTE ST 2110 and ensuring interoperability for AV-over-IP systems, IPMX incorporates other features tailored to pro AV installations. These features include AMWA NMOS IS-04 and IS-05 for discovery, registration, and connection management, as well as specifications for copy protection and security.

InfoComm Booth: W1067

Roadmaps to IC22: InfoComm 2022 Exhibitors Share Insider's Perspective

Check out the more than 50 Roadmaps here!

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Taft Stricklin, Sales Team Manager at Just Add Power

We’re celebrating our 30th anniversary in 2022, with most of those years spent delivering AV-over-IP distribution solutions. Our design philosophy is to respect the investment that customers make in their AV systems with products that last and systems that can be upgraded or modified as new features arrive. Scalability and flexibility are key, as Just Add Power systems can be expanded as needed and have the features and abilities to solve system design problems that arise from facility layout, zone requirements, and the desire to wow. Those themes continue to guide the formation of our products, services, and partnerships, which attendees will see and experience at InfoComm. 

First up is our new, award-winning MaxColor 4K60 Series. It natively supports 4K60 in and out to allow end users to play Ultra HD video from the growing number of 4K sources and devices on the market. We released this product last year and people couldn’t wait for it to ship!

Our Warp Engine transmitter took home the best of show award at InfoComm 2021 in Orlando, and we’re excited to have it displayed in Las Vegas for anyone who didn’t have the opportunity to experience it. The latest specialized product in our 3G Ultra line, the Warp Engine can rotate video in 0.1-degree increments, to single screens or video walls, to allow screens to be mounted at any angle. The eye-catching displays that can be created with this product are limited only by the installer’s imagination.

Finally, we have the ST1 sound transceiver, an audio-only device that can serve as an input or an output. Integrators can add a stereo audio source to any Just Add Power system or extract stereo audio from an existing transmitter. With this one device, integrators can manipulate the audio signal in a multitude of ways to suit customer’s desires.

InfoComm Booth: N2473

Roadmaps to IC22: InfoComm 2022 Exhibitors Share Insider's Perspective

Check out the more than 50 Roadmaps here!

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Tzahi Madgar, President of HDBaseT Alliance

As professional AV’s largest interoperable ecosystem, the HDBaseT Alliance has long been committed to fostering an environment of greater flexibility and inclusiveness among our industry’s community. This has never been clearer than in recent years, as global supply-chain challenges have effectively brought into focus, especially for integrators and installers, the importance of access to brand-agnostic solutions that work together seamlessly. With an ecosystem of over 200 members, and thousands of products in the market supporting the HDBaseT standard, I am proud to say that each day HDBaseT is helping them skirt some of these obstacles, and all without sacrificing a single pixel on quality or reliability.

At the heart of our efforts to spearhead the ongoing advancement of this truly interoperable ecosystem is our Spec 3.0 of the HDBaseT standard. This latest generation supports the extension of fully uncompressed 4K@60Hz 4:4:4, audio, USB 2.0, 1Gb Ethernet, controls, and up to 100 watts of power—all over a single, standard, Category 6a cable—up to 100m/328ft. In just over 6 months since the first wave of HDBaseT 3.0 products made their debut on our booth’s signature Power Wall at InfoComm 2021, the number that will be displayed there at this year’s show has grown by over 200 percent—a true testament to the technology’s game-changing potential. Clearly, we are only scratching the surface of the market’s demand for the high-bandwidth, uncompressed, multimedia signal distribution with zero latency that only HDBaseT 3.0 can provide.

Heading into the second half of 2022, we are excited to continue providing our members with more opportunities for innovation, expanding the number of interoperable products for integrators and installers to choose from, and widening the array of real-world applications for professional AV, with greater capabilities than ever before.

InfoComm Booth: W1337

Roadmaps to IC22: InfoComm 2022 Exhibitors Share Insider's Perspective

Check out the more than 50 Roadmaps here!

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

AVT Question: Please share your company's philosophy, vision, and product roadmap heading into InfoComm 2022. [June 2022]

Thought Leader: Anna Kozel, Director of Marketing at VuWall

VuWall is dedicated to helping customers in control rooms and corporate workspaces increase productivity and enhance visualization experiences with innovative video wall technology. VuWall’s goal remains the same: To continue developing powerful, interoperable tools that facilitate the installation and operation of all IP devices and applications from one easy-to-use, centralized platform. 

VuWall’s latest TRx 3.2 release brings enhanced performance, usability and interoperability. This version also features a new plug-in to the Genetec Security Center for a seamlessly integrated solution that allows operators to visualize IP cameras on video walls with other content sources from a single easy-to-use platform. Looking forward, VuWall continues to focus on facilitating interoperability in the AV industry, already supporting SDVoE, IHSE, Matrox and NDI-compatible devices. Organizations expect to be able to grow their pool of IP equipment as their needs evolve while controlling their AV infrastructure from a single software platform. TRx is the only software platform that brings such flexibility to control a multi-brand environment with seamless compatibility.

The demand for multi-source, multi-video wall deployments is at an all-time high and continues to accelerate. The progress of the AV-over-IP transition; the convergence of AV and IT; the affordability of networks, displays; and the market demand for more flexibility and interoperability have created a unique need for a distributed video wall solution. VuWall addresses and solves these challenges and limitations with the introduction of the PAK video wall node, which is used to deploy and manage modular video walls in AV-over-IP environments. PAK eliminates complicated wiring, a single point of failure, and past challenges by creating the most efficient networked video wall solution. In line with VuWall’s vision to simplify video wall integration and operation, PAK brings the added value that VuWall customers demand: versatility, scalability and security.

InfoComm Booth: N1569

Roadmap to IC22: InfoComm 2022 Exhibitors Share Insider's Perspective

Check back often as this list will be updated through InfoComm 2022. 

Absen's Roadmap to IC22 

Aurora Multimedia's Roadmap to IC22 

Covid, Inc.'s Roadmap to IC22 

Epiphan Video's Roadmap to IC22 

Hall Technologies Roadmap to IC22 

Legrand | AV's Roadmap to IC22 

Neutrik Americas' Roadmap to IC22 

Peerless-AV's Roadmap to IC22 

Poly's Roadmap to IC22 

PTZOptics' Roadmap to IC22 

Samsung's Roadmap to IC22 

Sennheiser's Roadmap to IC22 

Shure's Roadmap to IC22 

Sony Electronics' Roadmap to IC22 

tvONE's Roadmap to IC22 

Utelogy's Roadmap to IC22 

Yamaha UC's Roadmap to IC22

Logitech's Roadmap to IC22

56 AV/IT Company Roadmaps 2022 

>> 22Miles Roadmap 2022

>> Absen Roadmap 2022

>> AMX Roadmap 2022 

>> ATEN Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

>> Atlona Roadmap 2022

>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

>> Avnu Alliance Roadmap 2022

>> Barix Roadmap 2022 

>> Barco Roadmap 2022 

>> BenQ America Roadmap 2022

>> Biamp Roadmap 2022 

>> Black Box Roadmap 2022 

>> BlueJeans by Verizon Roadmap 2022

>> BrightSign Roadmap 2022

>> C2G Roadmap 2022

>> Chief Roadmap 2022

>> ClearOne Roadmap 2022

>> Crestron Roadmap 2022 

>> Daktronics Roadmap 2022

>> Datapath Roadmap 2022

>> EPOS Audio Roadmap 2022 

>> Hall Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> IHSE USA Roadmap 2022 

>> Intel Roadmap 2022 

>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

>> Kramer Roadmap 2022

>> Legrand|AV Roadmap 2022 

>> Listen Technologies Roadmap 2022

>> Logitech Roadmap 2022

>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

>> Macnica Roadmap 2022

>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

>> Nureva Roadmap 2022

>> Optoma Roadmap 2022 

>> Planar Roadmap 2022

>> Poly Roadmap 2022

>> Prysm Systems Roadmap 2022 

>> PTZOptics Roadmap 2022

>> QSC Roadmap 2022

>> Red Dot Digital Media Roadmap 2022

>> RTI Roadmap 2022

>> Samsung Roadmap 2022 

>> SAVI Controls Roadmap 2022 

>> Sennheiser Roadmap 2022

>> Shure Roadmap 2022

>> Sonic Foundry Roadmap 2022

>> Sony Roadmap 2022

>> Utelogy Roadmap 2022

>> Vanco International Roadmap 2022

>> ViewSonic Roadmap 2022

>> VuWall Roadmap 2022

>> Xilica Roadmap 2022

>> Yamaha Unified Communications Roadmap 2022

>> Zoom Roadmap 2022