When California's Stanford University unveiled its new Computer and Data Science building, known on campus as CoDa, the goal was to reshape how students, professors, and researchers across departments collaborate to create. This 167,000-square-foot hub, located at the crossroads of the schools of Engineering and Humanities and Sciences, is not just another academic building; it was designed to transform how people think and work.

Behind the scenes, this project centered on a complex infrastructure with two four-story buildings connected by bridges at every level, dozens of standardized collaboration rooms, three high-functioning classrooms, and an elaborate digital art installation that was introduced late in the project.

High Expectations, Long Timeline

Audio Visual Design Group (AVDG), a longtime collaborator with Stanford University, was tasked with leading the AV design and integration across classrooms, conference and seminar rooms, collaboration spaces, and more than 60 small, flexible rooms that could be quickly used by students, professors, or researchers for a variety of purposes. Katie Benson, senior key account manager at AVDG, noted that working with an esteemed institution like Stanford also comes with high expectations.

“This is a well-regarded institution of higher learning that provides technology that meets the standards for education and collaboration," she said. "We’ve done many projects on the Stanford campus, but the CoDa project was one of the largest and most unique in scope. A project of this size and diversity of AV spaces was going to require dedicated attention to detail, and we were up to the task.”

When they were invited to lead the AV systems design in 2019, AVDG had to navigate a long timeline that has become common in higher education installations; the project broke ground in 2022 and the building officially opened in February 2025. The project also required an extensive preconstruction phase, during which the integrator had to navigate evolving needs and technology requirements. Early in the process, AVDG shifted its focus to the infrastructure required to support the technology to follow, including structural supports, screen locations, and ceiling coordination to ensure a smooth execution during the install phase.

“During the programming phase in the first year, which included identifying room types, quantities, and the typical technology in each, and approximate cost, we had to be nimble and adapt to the changes and track cost variances accordingly,” Benson recalled. “As the project progressed, we became more engaged with the project team, including the architects, user representatives, and those affected by AV, such as the network team and other trades providing infrastructure for AV.”

Ambitious Audio

Across the two-building complex, AVDG outfitted 36 team rooms, 26 huddle rooms, and six large and eight medium conference rooms, including some with overflow that opens via bifold doors. In addition, AVDG identified three larger classrooms as standouts, including one with the second-largest Meyer Sound Constellation acoustic system in the world.

This ambitious classroom is highlighted by Meyer Sound's variable-acoustics deployment, which reshapes the room’s acoustics in real time using microphones and a distributed loudspeaker network. This is combined with an integration with QSC Seervision Automatic Camera Position Recall (ACPR). The room was also equipped with nearly 100 microphones and 128 loudspeakers, requiring approximately 50,000 feet of cable in the ceiling alone.

“Nobody’s ever done ACPR and Seervision with a Constellation system. It was something that hadn’t been tested before,” said Chris Bubp of AVDG, who served as project manager on the CoDa project and is also the production manager for AVDG on the West Coast.

Given the ambitious scope of the AV installation, some challenges could be expected, but AVDG reported very few issues. “Given the complexity of the largest classroom in the building, there was a lot there that could go wrong, but it ended up working out really well,” added Bubp.

Displays All Around

In the same classroom, AVDG had to install and configure five projectors, facing different directions, mounted 20-25 feet above the floor within a massive oval ceiling. This required careful planning and coordination with other trades to ensure that the projectors were at the correct distance from the custom-sized projection screens. Serviceability of the classroom systems, which was considered throughout the installation, required AVDG to build custom slide-out frames and pulleys to facilitate component access and servicing.

Among the other spaces in CoDa, technology included projectors from Panasonic and Epson, displays from Samsung, conferencing platforms from Cisco, and control systems from Crestron and Cisco, all aligning with Stanford’s standards within each space. Although many of these spaces were standardized, some still required special attention, such as a fourth-floor event space that required AVDG to install a 21-foot-long, 750-pound projection screen. Without a freight elevator, it took a full morning to move it into the space.

Despite intermittent severe weather in California that the team had to work around, the general contractor, Whiting-Turner, and its foreman, Owen Barcelona, kept the install on track. “I called him the Iceman because it didn’t matter what challenge a trade threw at him, he seemed unfazed and ready to find a solution,” said Bubp.

Digital Art Challenges

Early in the construction phase, the university announced a multi-story digital art installation for the stairwell between the two buildings. “We’d been working on this building for a number of years, and we were introduced to this nuanced, specialty art installation that was a new, exciting challenge to the project,” Benson said.

To bring the art display to life, AVDG used four NEC projectors with inverted lenses, cameras to capture live imagery, and a Crestron control system that adjusted for changing daylight in the space. Given that the stairwell is the building's architectural centerpiece, the AV aesthetics were critical, and the projection system with cameras had to be incorporated so it would almost disappear within the space. A major challenge of the project required technicians to work suspended from four floors while installing cameras, cabling, and support hardware.

When integrating the projector, there was little margin for error in achieving exact geometry, so the art was projected as the arts team intended. “One of them was a short-throw reverse image projector that had to point in the opposite direction with a snorkel lens on it,” Bubp explained. “We had to get that as accurate as possible because there are no zoom adjustments or anything on those. So, it was a lot of measuring, a lot of testing, a lot of late nights trying to get the art people exactly what it was that they were looking for.”

More than a year later, students and professors are successfully using the spaces within CoDa. AVDG credits the smooth process to extensive planning, which enabled the team to address any issues that arose.

Benson also highlighted their ability to keep all partners, manufacturers, contractors, and university members connected, which led to the successful execution of this complex installation. “It’s about communication," she said. "It’s about staying aligned with the different trades and understanding where everyone fits within the schedule.”

AVT Question: Please share insights into the company's roadmap and what 2026 holds for its AV/IT customers.

Thought Leader: Jatan Shah, President at QSC

Our philosophy is grounded in long-term thinking. Rather than pursuing fragmented innovation, we continue to invest in a foundation that prioritizes reliability, adaptability, and scale. Growth in collaboration and workplace applications is intentional, but it does not replace the high-impact environments that shape Q-SYS. Instead, it expands how the platform supports different use cases while staying anchored to performance, operational efficiency, and trust.

As we look ahead to 2026, the Q-SYS roadmap is all about demonstrating consistency, follow-through, and execution on the Q-SYS Full Stack AV Platform. Over the past year, conversations at ISE 2024 in Barcelona and InfoComm established a clear progression—from defining why a unified, platform-based approach matters to showing how that vision scales in real-world environments. What followed our recent Activate product launch event represented the next logical step: translating strategy into practical outcomes and solutions for IT, AV, and facilities teams responsible for operating spaces every day.

A central shift in our thinking is moving beyond individual rooms toward outcomes across entire environments. Framing solutions through the relationship between places, spaces, and applications allows organizations to think holistically about experience, operations, and insight—connecting technology decisions to measurable impact. This consistency is also what enables meaningful data, orchestration, and responsible use of AI in physical spaces.

Q-SYS plays a foundational role in enabling smarter, more connected environments—where technology supports people, improves efficiency, and contributes to more sustainable, well-managed places over time. Our focus for 2026 is straightforward: build on what works, execute with discipline, and deliver lasting value at scale.

In astronomy, a "singularity" is the center of a black hole. At the University of Rhode Island (URI), “The Singularity” is the name of a massive AV installation project. The Singularity's goal is to standardize and upgrade AV equipment in 150 classrooms and 14 auditoriums at URI’s main Kingston campus.

This ambitious project, which is now being executed by URI’s five-person Information Technology Services (ITS) AV department, was inspired by the university’s struggles to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. “When COVID hit, almost none of our classrooms were hybrid capable in any way, shape or form,” recalled Jeffrey Levesque, URI’s lead information technologist. “The non-standard solutions we managed to patch together served their purpose back then—but we knew we needed to come up with an approach that was consistent campus-wide, easy for staff to operate using a consistent touchpanel interface in each room and capable of being supported remotely from our office.

"This is why we decided to standardize our AV equipment campus-wide. I wanted equipment that I could put into every room no matter what it was, whether it was an auditorium, an active learning, or standard classroom, a meeting room—all of them.”

AVoIP for All

To manage the entire system, URI selected Epiphan’s Pearl Nexus AV over IP content playout and lecture capture solution. This included using Pearl’s Panopto for content management and Q-SYS Core Nano platform for control. The result is a fully automated AV environment in each classroom that allows instructors to walk in, make a few connections, and teach.

“I really enjoyed programming in the Q-SYS environment,” said Levesque. “Our rooms use Core Nano so that we don't have to run audio ins and outs into those spaces. Instead, everything is running on a Dante network."

URI uses NETGEAR AV line switches and network power supplies to run its internal AVoIP multicast network. In each upgraded room, URI installs an Apple Mac Mini computer, QSC TSC-70-G3 touchscreen controller, Q-SYS NV-21-HU ingest and receiving device, QSC SPA-Qf 60x2 audio amplifier, and two QSC AD-S8T loudspeakers. There is also one QSC NC-20x60 PTZ conference camera with audio tracking. Each lecture is captured using an Epiphan Pearl Nexus that supports automated recording.

Video is displayed in two ways in URI’s classrooms and auditoriums. Each space is equipped with Sony laser projectors (the VPL-PHZ60 and VPL-PHZ61 are the main models) and Da-Lite Model C with CSR pulldown screens. Select rooms also include Sony 4K BRAVIA monitors, which are typically 65 inches but can be as large as 85 inches.

To ensure accurate, clear, and echo-free audio capture, each space features an Audio-Technica ATND1061DAN beamforming ceiling array microphone, which can automatically focus on designated zones for audio pickup, such as the lectern or areas where students are speaking. At the same time, this system prioritizes the instructor and follows them as they move, so the lesson’s audio never gets missed.

The ATND1061DAN shares its voice tracking information with the QSC PTZ cameras in real time. This allows the cameras to automatically adjust and follow whoever is speaking, resulting in human-level tracking quality without requiring an actual operator. Plus, the ceiling mic can support up to 32 user-defined pickup zones, which are configured using Audio-Technica's Digital Microphone Manager (DMM) software. This also includes defining exclusion zones near doors and other problematic areas to block unwanted noise. For instructors who are still not ready to rely on ceiling mics, URI also has a Catchbox Plus wireless lavalier mic system available.

URI supports a BYOC (Bring Your Own Conference) approach, where users can access platforms like Zoom, Teams, and WebEx. For those instructors and students who want to plug their own devices into the classroom AV system, URI provides HDMI, USB-C, and Barco ClickShare wireless connections.

In fact, the only thing that URI’s standardized AV rooms don't have is their own scheduling system. “This is because room bookings are handled by our scheduling department on campus,” said Levesque.

Working Ahead

Installing a standardized AVoIP network to 164 locations is a tall order for any IT department, especially one with only five employees. To handle the challenge realistically, Levesque and his people resorted to intensive planning before a single cable was cut.

“Our philosophy is to do all your prep work ahead of time and get all of the parts in house before you do anything,” Levesque shared. “Once you have what you need on hand, it is time to put a prototype system together and try to break it—in other words, try to figure out what things can go wrong in the installation and what can be done to fix it. We applied that philosophy to this new install, and that's what helped make it go really seamlessly.”

That said, challenges did arise once the actual installation began. “One of the biggest challenges was learning to stand up and manage the dedicated, internal AV over IP multicast network that we needed, which is isolated from the main campus network,” said Levesque. “Luckily, the NETGEAR switches made it really easy thanks to their intuitive interface, while their support has been top notch.”

The URI IT team also had some issues when it came to adding AVoIP into larger rooms where a typical 48-port switch wasn’t enough. The solution was to start stacking switches. “That's been a little bit of a challenge to execute, but it's actually not that bad," Levesque said. "Frankly, once we had the AV over IP networks up, the subsequent issues we’ve faced are really trivial.”

Lessons Learned

Since starting The Singularity AV standardization upgrade project in Spring 2024, URI’s ITS department has completed more than 30 rooms. Because the university operates on a seven-year planning cycle, its goal is to transition the remaining rooms within the next three to four years, pending annual funding allocations.

Providing URI with a standardized AV infrastructure is proving to be a shrewd move. As for lessons learned from the project? As outlined above, extensive upfront planning and prototyping results in fewer problems during installations and faster overall delivery times. “Putting together a fully working classroom in my office first really paid off,” said Levesque.

It's also vital to have the professional installation team do all of the work themselves, rather than solicit support from people who could do some of it for less. “We’ve learned that we can't ask our student population to help us install things,” he said. “We had issues when we tried to do that.”

The third and final lesson: “While we can stand up our own networks, we're slowly reaching that point where we do need to expand our team, especially now that we’re moving to more network-based classrooms,” said Levesque. “The trend in AV these days is to put everything on the network. As a result, we really do need to hire somebody full time to help manage the AV over IP network that we're standing up all over campus.”

Do you have legacy AV equipment that is still earning its keep? Does your organization have a combination of hardware and software from different manufacturers, and does interoperability sometimes pose an issue? Is your AV/IT department full speed ahead with AV over IP, the cloud, and AI-enabled systems?

No matter which end of the AV or IT spectrum your systems reside, these 25 industry thought leaders share insights into the transition to IP, trends in The State of AV/IT today, and predictions for the next few years.

CATHERINE KOUTSARIS
Product Marketing Manager at Matrox Video

For many organizations, the biggest hesitation in modernizing AV systems is the belief that moving forward means ripping everything out and starting from scratch. In reality, most end users don’t need or want to replace entire systems. What’s more practical and sustainable is keeping the elements that still work well and bridging them with newer technologies. This approach reduces staff retraining and avoids waste. Teams can then evolve at their own pace.

That’s where interoperability comes in. Today’s AV/IT environments often resemble technology islands—ecosystems that work well independently but don’t always communicate with one another. End users may value their existing cameras or video walls, but when new requirements emerge, incompatibility becomes a real obstacle. AV gateway products are a great way to bridge between older systems and newer technology, allowing both to be used in the same installation.

Standards-based solutions provide the clearest path forward. Open standards like IPMX and SMPTE ST 2110 make it possible to mix equipment from multiple manufacturers and reduce the risk of vendor lock-in. In practice, this can mean running day-to-day conferencing over a corporate 1GbE network while seamlessly shifting to a 10GbE broadcast workflow for high-end production—all with the same underlying infrastructure. Organizations gain freedom from vendor lock-in and proprietary constraints.

The advice for end users is to focus on flexibility. Prioritize systems that integrate with what you already have and embrace open standards. This approach ensures that today’s investments remain relevant, while giving you the freedom to adopt new technologies and build AI-over-IP systems that can grow with you on your own terms.

RICHARD JONKER
Vice President Marketing and Business Development at NETGEAR Enterprise

The most successful organizations are shifting their mindset from, “What AV equipment do we need?” to, “How can we create experiences that drive business results?” This approach means your AV investments should solve specific business challenges rather than simply upgrade hardware.

The proof is in your meeting rooms. Setup time has dropped from seven frustrating minutes to under twenty seconds. This translates to improved productivity and employee satisfaction.

Behind the shifting mindset are four key technologies reshaping how you’ll interact with AV systems: AV over IP, cloud solutions, artificial intelligence, and extended reality (XR/AR). These represent fundamental changes, creating practical benefits for organizations willing to evolve.

AV over IP leads this transformation by using your IP network infrastructure instead of dedicated AV cabling. This means you get to benefit from all the advantages of the network world: easier scaling when adding endpoints like speakers, microphones, or displays; when you need remote troubleshooting by IT teams without the need for room visits; better integration with existing security tools; and the flexibility to reconfigure spaces as needs change.

As your AV systems become networked, artificial intelligence transforms infrastructure management through automated configuration and intelligent power optimization. However, connectivity introduces security vulnerabilities requiring proactive protection. Modern solutions now integrate AI-driven network simplification with built-in cybersecurity capabilities, creating inherently secure, intelligent systems that adapt to threats while simplifying operations.

At NETGEAR, we believe that organizations investing in these transitions today—and focusing on experiences that solve specific business challenges—are positioning themselves for significant advantages as the market evolves.

SAM SABET
Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Shure

The simple answer for any customer looking to invest in new AV technologies today, whether for upgrading or otherwise, is to consider a flexible, adaptable platform. Today’s AV world is characterized by rapid and constant changes. These changes are evident both in the environment—workspaces, collaboration modes, and the balance between RTO and remote work—and in features and technologies such as AI, feature deployment speed, and processing power.

When choosing a platform, it’s imperative to keep in mind the ease of adaptability to evolving changes. Consider the flexibility of configuration and provisioning, as well as the longevity of the platform. Shure’s ecosystem of MXA and collaboration solutions, supported by software infrastructure like ShureCloud and our advanced DSP and AI algorithms, provides a perfect platform. It can automatically adapt and grow with our end users’ needs.

EMMA EAGLE
Manager of Marketing at Hall Research

When it comes to evolving AV systems, whether you’re replacing legacy gear or updating something relatively new, the key is to plan for what’s next—not just what’s now. AV and IT are no longer separate worlds. Your AV strategy should be as scalable, secure, and manageable as the rest of your IT infrastructure.

Don’t get stuck on spec sheets. Instead, ask: Will this system grow with us? Can it integrate with cloud platforms? Is it simple enough that anyone can use it without frustration? Because at the end of the day, simplicity drives adoption, and adoption drives ROI.

The next few years will bring even more AV over IP, smarter automation through AI, tighter cybersecurity requirements, and an increased demand for sustainable solutions. Organizations that embrace these shifts will be in the best position to maximize both their technology and their people.

My advice? Evolve with intention. Choose solutions that are scalable, secure, and user-friendly. That’s how you future-proof your AV/IT investments.

MAX RITCHER
Co-Founder and Vice President of Marketing at Insta360

The AV/IT industry is at a turning point..

We’re moving from static, hardware-first setups to flexible, cloud-connected ecosystems that are easier to manage and adapt to how people really work. Three forces are driving this shift: the cloud, AI, and interoperability.

Cloud platforms now sit at the center of modern AV, making it possible for IT teams to monitor and update systems across campuses or offices from one place. This reduces complexity and takes the burden off on-site staff.

AI adds another layer, turning AV from something reactive into something proactive. We’ve seen this in the evolution of Insta360’s enterprise tools. We came from humble (yet ambitious!) origins with the Link AI webcam. This was our first entry into the industry, already sporting smart tracking. We’ve now moved onto the Connect video bar for larger rooms, and our latest release, Insta360 Wave. As an AI speakerphone, we’ve crafted something that is adaptive and resilient, designed to work together with our other products as a seamless experience.

But none of this potential can be unlocked without interoperability. Proprietary systems have long slowed progress by creating silos and forcing users into narrow ecosystems. That’s why open standards matter. By supporting initiatives like OpenAV Cloud and pushing for shared APIs, the industry can break down barriers, give organizations more choice, and ensure systems can grow together instead of being locked in.

The convergence of cloud, AI, and interoperability is shaping the future of AV. We’re beyond just releasing flashy tech for its own sake. We’re building smarter, more reliable systems that actually make work easier and more connected for everyone.

OLIVER VAN CAMP
Product Director, Meeting Experience at Barco ClickShare

Today’s meeting room technology must do more than connect devices; it needs to enable seamless, inclusive collaboration for all meeting room users. That’s why Barco ClickShare and Microsoft are re-imagining hybrid collaboration through smarter, more human-centric meeting experiences.

ClickShare provides a secure, scalable meeting room system that lets room participants conference, collaborate, and present with just one click, with no technical hassle, no cables, and no delays. Intuitive and easy to use, ClickShare ensures the meeting experience is consistent and seamless across any space—from huddle rooms to large boardrooms—and is designed around how people truly work.

In a Microsoft Teams environment, this experience becomes more intelligent and user-friendly. AI-powered features like speaker recognition, automatic camera framing, and smart content sharing create meetings that feel more natural and engaging, whether participants are in the room or remote.

AI is now doing even more to support the flow of work. Features like speaker attribution (knowing who’s speaking), facilitator agent (a virtual assistant capturing next steps and deadlines), and interpreter agent (allowing everyone to speak in their native language) benefit both in-room and remote participants. These tools help overcome proximity barriers, reduce administrative tasks, minimize miscommunication, and integrate smoothly into everyday workflows—even as they are still emerging.

ClickShare brings wireless collaboration solutions into the meeting room, empowering companies to run AI applications locally and in real time via the ClickShare Base Units. This unlocks smarter, faster interactions—from live speaker recognition and automatic camera framing to translation and real-time note-taking—enhancing every interaction to keep users productive, engaged, and focused. Together, ClickShare and Microsoft are redefining hybrid meetings: secure, smart, scalable, and made for people.

RYAN WALLENBERG
AIMS Member and Vice President of Engineering at Cobalt Digital

Whether AV systems are for rich experiences in venues or for managing signals on campuses like businesses or universities, they often involve equipment from different tech categories. For example, in many organizations it is not rare to see mixtures of two or all three of the following things: media processing equipment, signal extension and switching equipment, and IT department equipment.

There are many factors that have made it possible to accomplish any task that previously required hardwired cables to be achievable using packetized IP. The most challenging thing left to overcome while migrating from hardwired cables to IP is dealing with mixing different equipment types, equipment classes, and vendor solutions with interfaces such as HDMI.

The two most important things that have happened to address this final challenge is the emergence of open standards and specifications—such as SMPTE ST 2110, AES67, NMOS, and IPMX—and the emergence of IP-to-IP gateway converters of many types to help deal with conversions of media profiles within the media options of the standards and between different media and protocols including proprietary options.

End users looking to evolve legacy or even newer AV systems should consider IPMX-compliant solutions that offer smooth plug-and-play integration. An optimized hybrid infrastructure will leverage interoperability for high-quality audio, video, and data for SMPTE ST 2110 transport across common networks. Organizations should be able to add capabilities at their own pace while avoiding vendor lock-in and giving them the flexibility to build infrastructures that grow with them. Several vendors have always offered modular and standards-based technologies that adapt to real-world challenges, and they are now embracing IPMX integration.

SKYLER BOWDEN
Senior Marketing Manager at Mersive

In today’s hype-heavy tech climate, AI gets most of the headlines. Promises of 10x productivity and AI-driven transformation abound—but for AV/IT professionals managing real systems, real spaces, and real users, it’s essential to cut through the noise.

The truth? AI will shape the future of collaboration—but it won’t fix broken workflows or magically modernize outdated AV infrastructure. Productivity gains only happen when technology is aligned with how people actually work, connect, and communicate. This is especially true in education, healthcare, and enterprise environments, where every decision has to balance performance, cost, security, and usability.

What’s often overlooked in the rush to optimize is a critical factor: the human experience. Meaningful technology doesn’t just improve business outcomes; it impacts how people feel about their work. When meetings are more efficient and tools actually support connection instead of complicating it, your teams regain focus, time, and energy. That’s where real value emerges: better engagement, clearer communication, and a healthier work-life balance.

The most exciting AI potential isn’t about replacing people; it’s about revealing insights. Meeting analytics can surface engagement trends, highlight contributor impact, and track follow-ups so no one flies blind. Instead of attributing all tasks to the in-room device, imagine a system that accurately reflects every participant’s input and commitments—remote or on-site.

So what’s the takeaway? Don’t get distracted by magic wands. Invest in technology that is secure, scalable, and user-friendly—solutions that create space for the innovation your teams are primed to deliver. Then, let AI help you fine-tune how your teams meet, share, and succeed—without forcing in one-size-fits-all tech that misses the mark on deeper challenges like process gaps. AI will naturally optimize efficiency, but not overnight and not without an intimate understanding of how your teams do their best work.

BLAKE ABIG
Director of National Sales at Full Compass Systems

In my role, I spend much of my time listening to colleges, universities, and corporations as they rethink how their AV systems support teaching and collaboration. One of the most common concerns I hear is that rooms feel inconsistent. A professor might walk into one classroom and everything works smoothly, then step into another and struggle to get the system started. The same frustration shows up in corporate offices. Consistency is one of the simplest ways to improve user confidence and adoption.

Another challenge customers raise is the pressure on lean support teams. Higher ed IT groups may be responsible for hundreds of classrooms, while corporate AV staff cover global meeting spaces. I often hear, “We can’t be everywhere at once.” This is where centralized, cloud-based monitoring really makes a difference. When teams can see issues in real time and push updates remotely, they spend less time firefighting and more time enabling productivity.

Clients are also curious about how artificial intelligence fits in. What I tell them is that AI works best when it disappears into the background. Cameras that automatically follow a presenter, microphones that remove noise, and live captions that improve accessibility all make the experience smoother without adding complexity.

Finally, one theme that comes up again and again is equity for remote participants. Whether it is a student joining from home or a colleague dialing in from another office, people expect to be seen and heard clearly. That is no longer optional; it is the baseline.

The most successful AV strategies I see are the ones that put people first. When systems are reliable, intuitive, and supportive of everyone in the room and beyond, the technology simply enables better outcomes.

MITCH RAUCH
U.S. Sales Director at Powersoft

As AV systems grow more complex and distributed, spanning corporate campuses, higher education institutions, and dynamic multi-use facilities, the role of the integrator is evolving just as quickly. Success in today’s audiovisual environments requires more than just great sound and video; it also depends on smooth, seamless integration with the broader IT infrastructure.

Legacy rack rooms and point-to-point signal paths are giving way to decentralized, IP-based infrastructures. AV-over-IP is no longer a trend—but the very foundation. In this environment, amplifiers are active, networked components capable of intelligent signal routing, system synchronization, and real-time control. As a result, integrators are becoming more involved in network design, such as IP addressing, VLANs, QoS, and switch configuration, which are as essential as gain structure and speaker coverage.

Cloud integration is accelerating the evolution of network-based devices. Remote monitoring and system management capabilities are quickly becoming indispensable. Whether diagnosing issues, pushing firmware updates, or fine-tuning performance from a distance, cloud connectivity empowers integrators to deliver faster, more efficient support, often before the client even notices a problem. The shift to cloud integration can save time, reduce site visits, and pave the way for recurring service models.

Through these advancements, our mission at Powersoft remains to deliver transparent, intelligible audio without distraction. We’ve embraced this evolution with platforms like Unica and Nota 142. Both Unica and Nota 142 are purpose built for decentralized, IT-friendly environments, and combine robust performance with smart design and native cloud connectivity. Unica and Nota 142 highlight our commitment to helping integrators meet today’s challenges while preparing for tomorrow’s demands by bridging the worlds of AV and IT with powerful, future-ready solutions.

JAKUB KOLACZ
Manager Product and Commercialization, Business Communication at Sennheiser

As AV systems become increasingly networked, end users are grappling with how to evolve their environments without creating disruption. Legacy software, fragmented device tools, and rising IT security expectations often slow progress—yet the demand for simpler, more scalable management is only growing.

Now is the time for end users to prepare for this new era of AV/IT convergence. The priority is ease of deployment and configuration. Complex setup processes not only consume valuable IT/AV resources but also increase the risk of errors. Solutions that enable devices to be onboarded quickly, with minimal dependencies, free teams to focus on higher-value tasks.

Next, interoperability and centralization are key. While many organizations still rely on a patchwork of vendor-specific tools, the future lies in platforms that embrace open standards and integration. By consolidating device management into a single, standardized platform, teams gain a clearer view of their systems and reduce friction across locations and departments.

Security remains non-negotiable. With AV fully part of the enterprise IT landscape, encryption, authentication, and role-based access are essential to protect both data and devices.

Finally, consider ongoing performance. Management shouldn’t stop at installation. Proactive monitoring, real-time alerts, and predictive maintenance help teams spot issues before they escalate, keeping collaboration spaces available and reliable.

IT and AV pros should consider feature-rich, cloud-based device management platforms offering them all of the above services and more, with room to scale as systems become even more complex in the future. Providing a centralized hub for devices ensures not only improved on-site or remote management, but also the ability to react quickly to any issues at the time they occur.

Looking ahead, the convergence of AV and IT will continue to accelerate. End users who prioritize simplicity, interoperability, and proactive management today will be best placed to evolve their systems tomorrow, without sacrificing security or reliability.

ART WEEKS
Project Manager at ZeeVee by Kramer

We’re at an inflection point where both integrators and end users are rethinking AV system design. The old rack-full-of-boxes model is giving way to multi-function components that combine switching, DSP, and control. The motivation isn’t just fewer devices; it’s lower total cost of ownership over the life of a system.

By consolidating functions, projects install faster, take up less rack space, draw less power, and reduce the number of potential failure points. That translates to fewer service calls, easier remote management, and reduced labor costs across the system lifecycle. Realistically, integrators can save thousands per room, per year, while giving clients a cleaner, more reliable experience. It also helps projects get approved faster because decision makers can see long-term savings rather than just the upfront price tag.

At the same time, high-performance environments—like large lecture halls or mission-critical control rooms—are pushing adoption of AVoIP. End users want ultra-low latency and the flexibility to scale on standard networks. Today, that often means choosing between 1Gb and 10Gb deployments, but we’re seeing more forward-thinking firms pre-install CAT-6a cabling even when starting at 1Gb. That future-proofs the space, making it easier and cheaper to upgrade when higher bandwidth is needed.

In short, the state of AV/IT today is about simplification without compromise, and the next few years will be defined by scalable networked video paired with systems designed to reduce complexity, cost, and risk.

JOHN KRUSE
Senior Field Solutions Architect at ViewSonic

The convergence of AV and IT is reshaping how organizations design and manage their technology ecosystems. For end users modernizing legacy systems—or even optimizing newer ones—the goal is no longer just to add AV, but to create connected, intelligent environments that align with enterprise IT strategies.

There are a number of important considerations that go into achieving this. First, interoperability is foundational. Proprietary silos, especially technology-based ones, are becoming less viable, so end users should prioritize solutions certified across major platforms—Teams, Zoom, Google Meet—and integrate these with control systems to ensure long-term flexibility.

The second consideration is keeping the cloud as your control layer. Cloud-enabled management is shifting from optional to essential. Remote monitoring, analytics, and centralized updates improve uptime, lower service costs, and scale across campuses and enterprises.

Third, consider that AI is moving mainstream. AI features are already raising user expectations—from camera framing and noise suppression to predictive diagnostics. The differentiator in the coming years will be how seamlessly these features enhance collaboration and reduce friction.

Fourth, remember that budgets are tight, so sustainability and ROI are under more scrutiny than ever. End users should look for solutions that extend product lifecycles through firmware updates, modular upgrades, and energy efficiency instead of requiring rip-and-replace strategies.

And finally, as AV lives fully on the network, alignment with corporate IT security standards is critical. Device-level protections and encrypted data handling must be built in—not bolted on.

The state of AV/IT today is one of acceleration—driven by interoperability, cloud-first management, and AI intelligence. End users who embrace openness, scalability, and sustainability will not only protect their investments but also position their organizations for smarter, more adaptable experiences in the years ahead.

PAUL HARRIS
CEO at Aurora Multimedia

For end-users looking to evolve their AV systems, I recommend attending industry trade shows like InfoComm, ISE, and NAB, among others, which provide a neutral platform to explore new technologies. Ignore the marketing, and what size booth, and who throws the best parties. Do not be a “zombie” tradeshow walker either. That is where you walk aimlessly and get sucked in by the pretty shows people put on, but miss what is right in front of you that can make a difference. Dealer and distributor local shows can work well, just understand the limitations and combine them with other research, as many of these shows will only show you what they sell and are aligned with, leaving out many other brands and new technologies.

If you really want to do what is right for your company, due diligence is everything. Talk directly with a variety of manufacturers and test the products yourself to see if they meet your requirements. Nothing is better than a good old-fashioned shootout between brands, especially if the end user is in control of it to make sure everything is on a proper playing field. All manufacturers are guilty of making their products sound as good as possible. That is simply marketing at its best or worst, for that matter.

Ask questions like what makes your technology better than the competition, what is your warranty, where is it made, what is the life span of the product, do you make the product (yeah, many companies just slap their name on OEM and pretend it is theirs, support, education, TAA compliant, and roadmap. Don’t fall into the AI trap where companies make it sound exciting from a buzzword. See that it really does what they say, regardless of the tag line. At the end of the day, you are solving a problem, and it does not matter what fancy wrapper it comes in; does it simply do what is advertised, and does it do it well?

ADAM SOWERS
Senior Manager, Business Development at Sony Electronics

As organizations evolve their AV systems, the integration of interoperability, cloud solutions, and AI is paramount. AV systems aren’t just about hardware anymore; now, it’s all about being open, smart, and working together seamlessly. Even the newest legacy systems must catch up with the demands of hybrid work, smarter buildings, and AI-powered experiences. How would this actually get done? By embracing interoperability.

For anyone choosing platforms, I’d recommend looking for those that support open architectures and APIs. This is because open systems make it much easier for all your devices and services to communicate with each other. Think of it this way: By choosing solutions that can grow and adapt, you’re making sure your tech keeps up with the times as best as possible and is set up to evolve as quickly as possible. If you haven’t yet, check out initiatives like OpenAV Cloud, of which Sony Electronics is a member, to help you stay ahead.

Additionally, we’re all aware of the impact AI is starting to have. For example, virtual assistants and service bots are not just for demos anymore. Tools like predictive maintenance and smart troubleshooting mean less downtime and happier users. Virtual attendants can automate routines, personalize rooms, and manage schedules with minimal fuss.

Over the next few years, the efforts to unite disparate systems to create holistic solutions will finally come together. To prepare for that, think about going for modular, cloud-native solutions that are ready for AI and can grow with your evolution path. And partner with brands—like Sony—that believe in interoperability and open standards.

NICOLE CORBIN
Vice President of Product at Utelogy Corporation

As AV and IT continue to converge, the future belongs to organizations that embrace interoperability, automation, and intelligent systems. From cloud control platforms to AI-driven workflows, the industry is moving into an era where your technology estate shouldn’t just be about how it’s managed, but about how it’s orchestrated (ideally remotely and automatically).

Legacy and even modern AV systems weren’t designed to support the kind of dynamic, scalable, and data-driven operations today’s enterprises demand, but that’s changing fast.

At Utelogy, we’re seeing end users evolve by connecting AI agents across their IT/AV environments to support services that manage device health, power scheduling, room utilization, and even energy-saving measures. But these agents need a toolkit to work—a platform that provides control, telemetry, configuration, and automation in real-time. That’s where the Utelogy Platform comes in, delivering innovations like Agentic AI on our MCP Server to solve these challenges.

Agentic AI brings a conversational interface to the heart of AV/UC operations. Issue a command like, “Restart all devices in Building B with recent alert history,” and the system not only executes it, but recommends how to turn that action into a self-healing event going forward. This is AI for productivity, not just novelty.

Our advice? Don’t be afraid to integrate. Whether you’re managing a few rooms or thousands of devices across campuses and continents, the right tools let you reduce manual effort, increase uptime, and make smarter decisions using the data you already have.

In the coming years, the winners won’t just be those who adopt the newest tech, but those who build agile, interoperable systems that allow humans and machines to work together. The future of AV/IT isn’t siloed; it’s smart, connected, and cloud-enabled.

JATAN SHAH
President at QSC

My advice to end users looking to evolve their AV systems is to focus on flexibility, scalability, and intelligence. Technology is moving quickly, and the most future-ready solutions are those that adapt as your needs change while simplifying day-to-day experiences.

One of the biggest shifts in the industry is the move toward full integration of AV, IT, and building systems. AV is no longer a standalone function; it’s becoming deeply embedded in the workplace and experiential design. This means organizations should seek out open platforms that can seamlessly integrate into broader ecosystems rather than locking into closed or siloed technologies.

Another important trend is the rise of AI and data-driven automation. Instead of just enabling meetings or presentations, AI is becoming the eyes and ears of the room, driving context-aware actions like presenter tracking, speaker detection, and intelligent room adjustments. This shift makes technology more intuitive, reduces friction for end users, and helps deliver consistent, high-quality experiences.

Scalability also plays a critical role. End users should think not only about solving today’s challenges, but also about whether their AV approach can expand across multiple spaces or campuses while continuing to deliver measurable outcomes. Collecting and analyzing data from connected systems will become essential for optimizing utilization, proving ROI, and informing future planning.

Ultimately, the future of AV/IT is about creating smarter, more connected environments that support collaboration and innovation. By prioritizing open, data-driven platforms, organizations can ensure they’re not just keeping up with change but actively shaping spaces that are efficient, adaptive, and human-centered.

KATHRYN TAUB
Senior Product Marketing Manager at Audinate

Over the past decade, AV over IP has become central to professional systems, with nearly every major manufacturer offering networked products. And yet, interoperability across brands remains uneven, and customers expect systems that are easy to deploy, adaptable, and capable of integrating devices from different vendors.

The main challenge is that many products are built on unique implementations that work within a single brand but don’t extend beyond it. Such closed systems may be reliable, but hinder specialized features, gradual upgrades, or integration with existing investments. Open standards offer a pathway toward compatibility, but progress is slow and adoption is uneven, usually limited to basic transport of media across the network. Licensable platform solutions have become a widely adopted alternative. Backed by dedicated engineering teams, they extend beyond basic transport to provide APIs, stronger security, monitoring, and cloud-based tools that work consistently across multiple manufacturers.

Interoperability is what ensures AV-over-IP systems meet expectations in practice. Reliable audio and video depend on devices working together without added latency or quality loss, regardless of brand. As networks grow from single rooms to campuses, interoperability allows them to scale without fragmentation or costly redesigns. Shared APIs and common control frameworks make management practical by giving integrators the visibility they need to simplify support. Security underscores the same point: A system is only as strong as its weakest device, and without network-wide encryption or access control, interoperability is incomplete. Systems must balance performance and flexibility so they can meet the distinct demands of any environment.

The future of AV over IP depends on interoperability. With common protocols, consistent testing, and manufacturer-agnostic design, the industry can build networks that scale and adapt with ease. Interoperability safeguards current investments while opening the door to the innovation and growth that will define the next generation of AV systems.

BRAD HINTZE
Executive Vice President of Global Marketing at Crestron

Ultimately, convergence is all about scale. While organizations grow and their services expand, every system has to evolve to support new demands. This doesn’t mean simply upgrading individual components; instead, it requires a strategic approach and selecting platforms that are built on scalable standards that can grow with an organization over time. This scalability isn’t enough on its own, though. The platforms must also offer flexibility to accommodate a diverse range of spaces and room configurations to address smaller huddle rooms and multifunctional boardrooms alike. When choosing solutions that balance both of these components, organizations can future-proof their environments while maintaining consistency and performance.

Just as important is the user experience, as the expectations of end users are rising rapidly.

Today’s employees walk into a room with a clear vision for how they want the space to operate. Basic connectivity and audiovisual capabilities are no longer sufficient. Organizations must enable people to use the room with an easy-to-use system that offers AI features such as transcription and notetaking—just like they have come to expect from their individual workspaces.

Success lies in selecting technologies that scale with your organization while enhancing the experience of every individual who interacts
with them.

KEITH YANKE
Vice President of Product & Solutions Marketing at Sharp Imaging
& Information Company of America

The AV/IT landscape is rapidly evolving, shaped by AI, cloud interoperability, and new display technology. For end-users upgrading legacy or newer AV systems, it’s important to consider scalability, security, and sustainability.

AI is transforming display intelligence. From content triggering based on audience behavior to predictive diagnostics and remote monitoring, AI makes systems smarter, more responsive, and easier to manage. Paired with cloud-based management, AV networks can be centrally controlled, ensuring updates are applied, standards upheld, and devices remain secure throughout their lifecycle.

As systems grow more interconnected, interoperability introduces both opportunity and risk—making security foundational. AV systems must be designed with lifecycle security in mind, including firmware and software support beyond deployment. With that, manufacturers will be expected to maintain robust protocols throughout a product’s life.

As display technologies evolve alongside AI and cloud, LED displays continue to gain momentum with chip-on-board (COB) and smaller pixel pitch options becoming more affordable. When paired with cloud-driven control, LED provides scalable, high-performance displays that integrate seamlessly into AV/IT ecosystems.

Immersive experiences—from simulation to projection mapping—are expanding as AI simplifies both content creation and the mapping process. Tasks that once required niche expertise now have easier learning curves, making immersive environments more accessible to broader markets and applications. Combined with cloud-based platforms, interoperable AV systems can deliver these experiences in ways that are seamless, adaptable, and scalable.

Sustainability has also become a decisive purchasing driver. Beyond efficient hardware, cloud interoperability supports smarter lifecycle management—optimizing usage, reducing waste, and extending product longevity. Combined with durable displays, this proves that performance and sustainability can align.

Looking ahead, AV/IT systems will be defined by their ability to adapt, connect, and contribute to intelligent, secure, and sustainable workplaces across industries.

EFFI GOLDSTEIN
President of the HDBaseT Alliance

Whether upgrading legacy installations or enhancing newer deployments, end users would be best served by adopting a strategy centered around proven, reliable standards.

Modern AV systems are expensive, and organizations need to be sure that today’s investment will support tomorrow’s requirements. Building on established protocols like HDBaseT helps teams avoid getting locked into a single vendor’s ecosystem, resulting in greater and faster access to equipment than when relying on one source. This flexibility is especially important when it comes to maintenance, replacement, and time-sensitive system expansion.

Another key factor that must be taken into consideration is maintaining full functionality of the interfaces being used. For example, USB-C has become ubiquitous in modern devices, but not all connectivity solutions support the same bandwidth, creating hidden bottlenecks. For example, when connecting a USB 3.0 camera, you don’t want it to be downgraded to USB 2.0 because a system’s connectivity infrastructure can’t handle the higher data rates. Quality standards ensure your investment performs at the level it was intended to.

An additional advantage of standards-based systems is their ability to support upgrades in stages rather than being forced into complete overhauls. HDBaseT’s backward compatibility means you can reuse existing components and upgrade others as needs evolve incrementally—all while staying within budget. This offers dual benefits: It’s more economically friendly for the organization, and it supports sustainability initiatives by extending equipment lifecycles.

PETRO SHIMONISHI
Director of New Business Development at Panasonic Projector and Display Americas

AV/IT convergence not only poses an opportunity to streamline workflows, but it also exposes the need for flexible, interoperable, and easy-to-use solutions. Delivering end-to-end workflow solutions is essential to empowering AV professionals to focus on what matters: creating shared experiences. Effective, efficient workflows allow users to deliver stronger results with fewer resources to maximize the value of AV systems.

We’ll continue to see more integrations between hardware and software providers to streamline workflows and give customers the ability to design, create, and manage applications with more ease than ever before. For instance, at Panasonic Projector and Display Americas, we recently partnered with XTEN-AV to develop an integration that allows AV professionals to specify the correct lens for their Panasonic projector. Corporate AV/IT teams can confidently create system designs, reducing guesswork and speeding installation of interchangeable lens projectors.

Another market trend we anticipate will continue is the evolution of simplicity in installations. Universities upgrading lecture halls or other spaces often require additional hardware to manage streaming, content sharing, and network integration. This can increase system complexity, which becomes challenging for tight spaces. Panasonic’s displays and projectors feature SDM card slots and our partnership with Matrox Video gives AV professionals the freedom to choose the AVoIP standard that best meets their needs, with a clean system design that’s flexible for the future.

The migration of AV system workflows to the cloud is accelerating. This transition will help power seamless, engaging content as siloed, proprietary systems inhibit integration and innovation. As a founding member of OpenAV Cloud, Panasonic aims to accelerate this transition by supporting OpenAPI standards and working with the association to create a cloud-to-cloud communication standard that drives easy, cross-platform collaboration.

JOE ANDRULIS
Executive Vice President of Corporate Development at Biamp

AI continues to transform the audiovisual landscape, integrating into both legacy and contemporary AV systems. For end users, this ongoing evolution represents an unprecedented opportunity to enhance meeting experiences while also simplifying system management and support.

Beyond traditional configuration and provisioning, AI is fundamentally reshaping how end users experience corporate meetings of all types, whether participants are in person, remote, or in a hybrid setting. The most remarkable aspect of this transformation is its invisibility. Participants benefit from sophisticated, AI-driven enhancements without ever sensing the technology working behind the scenes. This seamless integration is crucial for creating truly effective meeting environments that prioritize simplicity, speed, and unwavering reliability.

Modern conferencing solutions exemplify this invisible intelligence. All-in-one conferencing bars, for example, demonstrate how AI can elevate user experiences through intelligent features such as beamtracking technology, which actively monitors and intelligently mixes conversations to ensure remote participants feel fully engaged. Coupled with AI-powered noise reduction algorithms, these systems deliver crystal-clear voice reproduction that eliminates distractions and maintains professional communication standards.

Visual intelligence further enhances the experience through electronic pan-tilt-zoom cameras paired with auto-framing technology, ensuring all participants remain perfectly positioned regardless of their location or movement. This technology keeps everyone front and center, creating an inclusive environment where physical location becomes irrelevant to participation quality.

The impact of AI also extends into operational excellence, benefiting end users in other ways they may not realize. For technical support teams, AI provides unprecedented insights into system performance, enabling rapid problem identification and resolution. This enables support teams to implement predictive capabilities to address potential issues before they impact end users, transforming reactive support into proactive system optimization. This paradigm shift ensures that mundane technical issues are resolved automatically, while more complex challenges are anticipated and prevented, creating a seamless, uninterrupted meeting experience for all participants.

OMER BROOKSTEIN, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder at Xyte

For enterprise end users looking to evolve their AV systems, the most important step is ensuring a foundation that’s open and adaptable. Proprietary silos slow innovation and increase costs, while open APIs provide the flexibility to integrate best-in-class solutions and scale as needs change. That’s why OpenAV Cloud—an industry initiative focused on standardizing open, cloud-based APIs and fostering cross-platform collaboration—is so critical.

The value of choosing an OpenAV solution is clear: It delivers vendor-neutral flexibility, easier integrations and scalability, and faster support and troubleshooting—all while future-proofing AV/IT investments with the backing of industry leaders. With this foundation in place, enterprises can not only streamline today’s operations but also prepare for the intelligent automation that’s rapidly reshaping the industry.

The real opportunity today, however, lies in how AI will transform the way AV systems are supported, maintained, and experienced. AI-powered teammates are emerging as a force multiplier for IT and AV teams.

Autonomous issue resolution means that if a microphone drops mid-call, AI detects it and reboots or reroutes before users notice. With proactive scheduling and monitoring, AI forecasts failures from usage patterns and environmental data, then books service windows automatically. Context-aware support in hybrid meetings allows AI to adjust audio, cameras, and layouts to match participants and context. And finally, with self-service for end users, employees can resolve minor issues with AI-guided instructions, reducing IT workload.

AI in enterprise AV isn’t about replacing humans; it’s about augmenting teams with intelligent assistants that deliver resilience, efficiency, and better user experiences. Future-ready AV means building for both interoperability and intelligence—without one, the other cannot succeed. And with AI teammates stepping in to resolve issues, anticipate needs, and empower users, organizations that embrace this shift now will set the pace for the entire industry.

STEPHANE TREMBLAY
President of the SDVoE Alliance

Today, we’re recognizing that many integrators, IT managers, and end users are seeking solutions that deliver high-quality performance without requiring a complete rip and replace of existing infrastructure. As a result, AV over IP has emerged as a viable solution. By shifting AV distribution onto standard Ethernet networks, it enables organizations to harness the power of their current infrastructure while unlocking new levels of flexibility, scalability, and reliability. Unlike traditional systems that often depend on proprietary hardware and cabling, AV over IP integrates seamlessly into IT environments.

A key advantage of AV over IP, and particularly Software-Defined Video over Ethernet (SDVoE), is its ability to deliver high-performance video and audio with the reliability and interoperability that IT teams expect. With SDVoE technology, audiovisual functions become software-defined, meaning updates, enhancements, and even new features can be deployed through firmware rather than hardware replacement. A software-based approach offers significant future proofing, delaying obsolescence and protecting investments. In an era where supply chain disruptions and budget pressures remain real challenges, that flexibility matters.

Higher education, corporate facilities, houses of worship, and other verticals need standardized, interoperable solutions that scale to large spaces without compromising user experience. In higher education, for instance, AV over IP enables classrooms, lecture halls, and collaborative spaces to run on a consistent backbone, easing IT management and improving reliability.

Looking ahead, AV and IT continue to converge more closely. AV is no longer siloed, but treated as another service on the network, and is subject to the same demands for uptime, security, and scalability. Ethernet’s continued evolution, coupled with AV over IP’s flexibility, suggests that over the next few years, organizations will increasingly standardize on 10G Ethernet backbones. As a result, AV systems will become more reliable, interoperable, and adaptable to future needs, ensuring end users can keep pace with changing expectations without constant reinvestment.

QSC, a leader in professional audio, video, and control solutions, has announced a strategic decision to divest its DCS (Digital Cinema Speaker) product line to Moving iMage Technologies (MiT). This decision underscores QSC's long-standing commitment to expanding its Q-SYS networked device portfolio, a foundational component of its Full Stack AV Platform.

About the Transaction

As of October 31, 2025, MiT has assumed full responsibility for the manufacturing, distribution, and servicing of all DCS products. The deal includes the entire Digital Cinema Series (DCS) loudspeaker product line, including all products sold under it. This specifically covers the Screen Channel ("SC"), Subwoofer ("SB"), Surround ("SR"), and Screen Channel ("RSC") product lines.

Moving iMage Technologies (MiT), a publicly traded company and a prominent provider of technology, products, and services to the Motion Picture Exhibition industry, is headquartered in Fountain Valley, California. MiT was founded in 2003 and has a history of collaboration with QSC, having acquired QSC's USL Accessibility product line in 2022. “It feels nice to be passing this legacy onto a company with whom we have a strong history, and we trust will continue to do great things with this line,” Heyn said.

“As a longstanding focus to grow Q-SYS, the DCS loudspeaker product line has become a non-core part of our long-term growth strategy,” Heyn added. “However, the DCS product line’s strong legacy and customer base made it a natural fit for a focused cinema provider like MiT.” This transaction allows MiT to take the lead in supporting and growing the DCS product line, ensuring continuity of service for existing customers, while QSC simplifies operations and focuses on its core businesses.

A Laser Focus on Full-Stack AV

While divesting the DCS loudspeaker line, QSC assures its customers that the Q-SYS Full Stack AV Platform is primed for the cinema market. “Cineplexes operators are always looking to create seamless, connected experiences across their multiple space types— lobbies & concessions, hospitality zones, rental meeting spaces, arcades & immersive attractions, and more.

Heyn explained the Q-SYS customer value and key differentiator through the lens of Place, Space, and Applications. “Traditional AV providers tend to operate only at the Application level—offering point solutions that were not designed to connect those Applications across an entire Space, much less bridge the data-driven insights necessary to deliver a truly holistic experience for a given Place like a cineplex.”

The Q-SYS Full Stack AV Platform, however, was designed to unify Spaces and scale across diverse Places—whether high-performance workplaces, higher education environments, or entertainment destinations.

QSC will support this platform-focused vision, in part, through its robust portfolio of loudspeakers, including NL Series networked loudspeakers, high-performance installation loudspeakers like PL Series, commercial loudspeakers like AcousticDesign Series, and active loudspeaker solutions, including QSC K Class, L Class, and C Class.

It was a big week in Pro AV, and yes that means more acquisitions. Here is your weekly rundown on what you have may missed in personnel moves, partnerships, and much more.

First, D-Tools secured a $12 million Series C investment through StellarIQ, with continued support from Greybull Stewardship, D-Tools’ majority investor. The new funding supports D-Tools' mission to become the de facto end-to-end software solution for electronic systems contractors and reinforces Greybull’s long-term commitment to the company. We covered the news here last Tuesday and you can find out the details here.

Elsewhere, Navori Labs acquired Signagelive. By the end of 2025, the joint organization will boast more than 45 dedicated developers focused exclusively on delivering scalable, flexible, and data-centric signage technology. You can get the details here.

Now, on with the show.

People News

Jessica Tropea Joins Neutrik Americas

Neutrik Americas has added Jessica Tropea to its team as customer solutions engineer–fiber optics. With more than a decade of experience in technical sales, fiber optic solutions, and customer-focused engineering, Tropea brings a wealth of industry knowledge and a proven track record of delivering innovative solutions for complex applications.

Prior to joining Neutrik Americas, Tropea held key roles at companies such as Fiber Instrument Sales (FIS) and BTX Technologies, specializing in fiber optic technologies and customer engineering support. Her expertise spans solution design, technical sales support, and project management for OEMs, system integrators, and end users across multiple industries.

Telos Alliance Welcomes Egor Tyagunov to Global Sales Team

Telos Alliance welcomed Egor Tyagunov back to the company in his new position of sales manager, media solutions, EMEA. Tyagunov’s previous tenure with Telos Alliance was as sales manager for the CEE and CIS regions.

In his new role, Tyagunov will primarily focus on the Jünger Audio and Linear Acoustic product lines, which are uniquely positioned to provide television, streaming, and on-demand broadcasters with the tools needed to deliver compelling, immersive TV audio to today’s sophisticated viewers.

Company News

Audiologic Appointed as Official Distributor of QSC Audio in the UK and Ireland

Audiologic has been appointed official distributor for the QSC Audio product portfolio in the U.K. and Ireland. Audiologic has a long-standing and successful relationship as distributor of Q-SYS in the U.K. This new appointment to be official distributor of QSC Audio solidifies that wider relationship between both companies and significantly broadens the product portfolio and expertise at Audiologic for all QSC products within the AV market, specifically catering to the systems integration market. The expanded portfolio includes the recently introduced KC12 loudspeaker system, L Class system, and the K.2 and CP loudspeakers, complementing Audiologic's existing Q-SYS offering.

The partnership encompasses comprehensive sales support, as well as technical and logistical services. Customers in the U.K. and Ireland will benefit from faster delivery times, localized support, and improved access to training and support resources for all QSC Audio products.

B-Tech, SYSTEAM GmbH Have New Distribution Partnership

B-Tech AV Mounts announced a new distribution agreement with SYSTEAM GmbH, an IT distributor based in Ebensfeld, Germany. This strategic partnership supports B-Tech’s continued growth in the DACH region and marks SYSTEAM’s expansion into the professional AV sector.

Founded in 1985, SYSTEAM has built a strong reputation within the German IT channel and recently launched a dedicated Pro AV Business Unit, securing display partnerships with brands such as Samsung and Avocor. The collaboration will give SYSTEAM access to B-Tech’s full portfolio of AV mounting solutions, covering everything from dvLED and digital signage to video conferencing and multi-screen video walls.

SYSTEAM will promote the B-Tech brand through targeted marketing campaigns, training, and project support, with joint webinars and events already in the pipeline. The partnership builds on shared values and complements SYSTEAM’s existing success with Neomounts, one of B-Tech’s partner companies in the Global Mounts Group

Clearwing Joins Clair Global

Clearwing, which offers production services and systems integration from its Milwaukee and Phoenix-based offices, has joined Clair Global. The alignment enables both companies to expand their capabilities while maintaining the personal, relationship-focused approach that has earned client loyalty over the past five decades.

Founded in 1976, Clearwing has earned its reputation by delivering audio, lighting, video, and rigging solutions for live events and permanent installations. Within its systems integration business, Clearwing has delivered solutions for a vast portfolio of museums, performing arts centers, educational facilities, houses of worship, arena and stadium venues, and themed entertainment applications.

Clearwing will maintain its brand, leadership, and team. Joining Clair Global provides Clearwing with access to greater resources, infrastructure, and support, enabling the company to serve clients more effectively and take on larger, more complex projects.

For Clair Global, Clearwing’s addition strengthens its presence in key regional markets and brings in another team of top-tier professionals who uphold strong values and a focus on delivering outstanding results.

Renkus-Heinz Appoints Quest Marketing as New Sales Representatives

Quest Marketing is now Renkus-Heinz's new sales representatives in Florida. This new collaboration aims to enhance Renkus-Heinz’s presence in Florida and Puerto Rico, bringing its range of loudspeakers to even more customers.

Quest Marketing is a Florida-based technology rep company. Formed in 1996, the organization works with audio, video, lighting and music companies that offer innovative solutions. Early on, Quest Marketing’s product focus was on studio recording and post, but as technology evolved, they branched out to loudspeakers, amps, processors and consoles, making them an ideal partner for Renkus-Heinz.

Completed in Fall 2024, the Maury County Judicial Center in Columbia, TN, is a newly constructed, 58,000-square-foot facility designed to accommodate a growing region while modernizing court proceedings at the same time. Nashville, TN-based architect Workshop oversaw planning and building design, while S&L Integrated, headquartered in Thomasville, GA, deployed the courtroom AV systems.

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two-story building, the new courthouse houses six courtrooms, three on each floor. Upstairs, one jury courtroom features a traditional layout, with the jury box to the side of the bench and attorney tables. The other two incorporate the Virginia Revival Model (VRM), which puts the jury in front of the judge’s bench. Four associated enclosed spaces are assigned to each courtroom, providing attorneys and their clients with somewhere to meet privately.

For architect Workshop, one design goal was to incorporate elements referencing Maury County’s historic courthouse building a few blocks away in Columbia’s downtown core. For example, the pews positioned throughout the public hallways were extracted from the historic building and refurbished for the Judicial Center. The thin film coverings on the private conference room windows, featuring images depicting Maury County’s history, are another element.

“Recognizing that they were moving from the historic courthouse was very important to them,” James Kennon, principal architect at architect Workshop, explained in a video produced by S&L Integrated. “We worked with the county archives to develop a series of photos that told the history of the county.”

Digital Evidence Support

From a technological perspective, Maury County needed courtroom AV systems that could support digital evidence such as body and dashcam footage as well as surveillance videos, explained Stan Mobley, senior account executive for state, local, and corporate clients at S&L Integrated. This need is prevalent among the courthouses his firm works with in Georgia and Tennessee, as is the integration of reliable videoconferencing capabilities and user-friendly control.

To address this, S&L Integrated developed a courtroom AV package that can be tailored to meet specific client requirements. In general, it includes Crestron DM NVX AV over IP distribution, Q-SYS control, QSC ceiling speakers, Marshall POV cameras, LG displays, a combination of Audix microphones and Sennheiser wireless systems, and WolfVision whiteboard and annotation tools (when requested).

At the Maury County Judicial Center, the primary goal was to provide a good user experience for everyone working in the courtroom, including the judge, attorneys, court clerk, court reporter, and other staff. To achieve this, it’s necessary to understand how each judge runs his or her courtroom, explained Nathan Tomberlin, account executive at S&L Integrated. For example, do they want the ability to approve digital evidence before attorneys share it wirelessly to courtroom displays? If so, their touchpanel must be equipped with “preview” and “approve” commands.

“This is putting protections in place to follow the due process of how the judge wants to manage the court proceeding,” Tomberlin said. “It puts all of the power back on the judge.”

Control Flexibility

It can also allow for flexibility. During particularly intense proceedings, a judge may give the court clerk authorization to run the technology from their own touchpanel, so the judge can keep their focus on witness testimony. Good control programming can also simplify things for the court reporter, who may access and modify mic volumes through their touchscreen.

“They don’t have to go through their software with their mouse to click on the microphone levels to get them right,” Tomberlin said. “Instead, we give them a touchpanel and they can make any adjustments right there on the screen.”

While each courthouse is different, they all share common requirements, which is why S&L Integrated offers a courtroom AV package. As Mobley explained, this promotes standardization across courthouses, which facilitates service and support for the AV integrator. Perhaps more importantly, it provides a smoother user experience.

“Within a circuit, there may be three judges and six courts,” Mobley added. “The courtrooms may look different—some may be modern while others are historic. But when we standardize the systems, a judge coming from County A to County C doesn’t have to spend time learning a system that’s unfamiliar to him. He has a touchpanel that looks exactly like the one in his home court.”

Court-Appointed Audio Capture

Part of the AV package that S&L Integrated proposes to its courthouse clients includes a combination of Audix conferencing microphones, such as the MG18 and MG18HC gooseneck condenser mics mounted in the ATS1 tabletop base, as well as ADX60 boundary mics to capture speech from those who aren’t equipped with a dedicated microphone.

“From an audio perspective, the most important person in the room is the witness,” said Gage Helton, director of operations at S&L Integrated. “The second most important is the judge. Then, obviously, you need to be able to hear the jury. Many contractors that do general purpose installations don’t make things audible enough when they do courtrooms, or there’s feedback because they didn’t EQ the room. For this reason, we tend to use column array speakers, tune them, then the MG18 mics in most places. But for positions closer to the arrays, we’ll opt for the MG18HC, which is essentially the same mic with a hypercardioid pickup pattern.”

Witness and jury foreman mics are usually shock-mounted, with everything else mounted on the ATS1 bases. The ADX60s are placed on prosecution and defense attorneys’ tables to capture sidebar discussions.

Helton noted that the ATS1 base’s physical button is easier for non-technical operators to use, versus bases that incorporate either a touchscreen or capacitive button. “We’ve found that users can get confused by those—especially when you factor in the stress that comes with being in court—and either fail to trigger them when it’s their turn to speak or accidentally turn them on when it’s not,” he explained.

[Unheavenly Acoustics]

he unit’s detachable cable also makes for smoother installs. “A lot of gooseneck bases for conferencing have an attached cable, so you need to figure out how to dress it and route it in an unobtrusive way. With the ATS1, we can just run our own cable and terminate, which makes the install so much cleaner,” he said.

While this may seem like a lot of microphones, there is a need to take all courtroom participants into account. “One reason is, in many installs we send multitrack audio to the court reporter so they can produce the most accurate transcript possible,” Helton said. “Another is that we like to have a press feed plate for higher-profile cases, so reporters can just plug in and get a clean audio mix. For larger courtrooms, we’ll also do a mix-minus through small speakers at various locations, so the participants can hear everyone else clearly but not have echo of themselves.”

Jatan Shah’s journey in the world of Pro AV began in 2010. After a career in HVAC and management consulting, Shah joined QSC, and a mere 10 days later he was experiencing his first InfoComm right here in Orlando. Now, the president of QSC is celebrating his 15th InfoComm as the new AVIXA Chair of the Board of Directors.

[All the InfoComm News, Products, and Insights for 2025]

Shah joined the AVIXA Board in 2021—a decision that was a bigger than taking on his current role as Chair—with the desire to contribute meaningfully to the Pro AV industry as a whole. “I remember coming here in 2021,” Shah said. “[Because of the pandemic] it was a very small show with a lot of worries—a lot of people thinking about what the future of trade shows was. Joining the Board was a very humbling moment that year. It's one thing when everything's going great and a lot of success is around and everybody's happy and partying, versus joining at a time when everybody's concerned, and you are still in the phase where there's so much uncertainty.”

After becoming an officer, he knew it was a long-term commitment and was excited to take on his new role. “This was a great way of just giving back to the AV community with a quite high-influencing role,” Shah said. “It started with joining the AVIXA Board. When I decided to become an officer, that is when the commitment became a long-term commitment leading to my current role as a Chair.”

The Chair of the Board of Directors serves a one-year term. Shah sees the agenda of the board as a multi-year journey, which involves being the hub for the AV industry and also a catalyst for growth. “As Chair, you are facilitating a group of people who are the Board members as well and bringing the best out of them because you have a very diverse set of people who come from various parts of the AV industry and world,” Shah said. “Bringing voices to the table and making sure that we are able to support AVIXA achieve its long-term goals is where our focus is.”

It is an exciting time in Pro AV, especially for Shah, who is seeing what used to be very siloed pillars merging withing the industry. His own company, QSC, was recently acquired by Acuity , a building management system and lighting company, so he has witnessed that blending of industries firsthand. “You think about the parallel industries that exist, and a lot of the solutions are becoming more and more integrated,” Shah said. “So, from the end-user standpoint, yes, you're making decisions about your AV, but then you're also making decisions about controls—building controls, building management. All those types of broader trends are then driving the technology integration, which then impacts the AV industry as well.”

That convergence continues to be a hot topic, especially in broadcast and Pro AV. But that’s not the only trend we’ll see on the show floor this week. “We will continue to see the more practical use of AI,” Shah said. “The AI hype cycle is not over, but we've gone through that next phase in the AI journey, which is what are some of the tangible values we can see? You see computer vision—it's one of the areas that we've seen a lot of value. You'll see a lot more focus on data and what you can do with data insights, whether it's through different cloud platforms or in various ways.”

As the Pro AV train continues to roll further into the future, Shah will look back to that 2021 show to remember a turning point in the industry. “I felt it was great looking back,” Shah said. “It's one of those defining moments where you look at an organization and how its resilience was tested in a big way.

"For me, it was the smallest InfoComm show, yet it was probably the most memorable show just because it was the moment through which the organization arrived back to an all-time high.”

On June 10, the day before the InfoComm 2025 show floor opened, the winners of SCN Installation Product Awards 2025 were revealed during a ceremony at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. Winning products were recognized across 12 categories, including two new categories for 2025: Most Innovative KVM Solution and Most Innovative Speaker Solution (Installed).

"The SCN Installation Product Awards are all about celebrating Pro AV product innovation, and I want to congratulate all our winners for 2025," said Mark J. Pescatore, content director, Systems Contractor News. "It's clear that our industry is not resting on its laurels and that manufacturers are continuing to deliver new solutions to simplify workflows for integrators and end users."

And the winners are:

Most Innovative Audio Hardware

Extron: XPA U 4004 FX Power Amplifier

Sennheiser: Profile Wireless

Xilica: RoomHub

Most Innovative AV Installation Accessory

MAXHUB: Express Install Table Stand

NETGEAR AV: M4350 Series AV Switches

WyreStorm Technologies: NHD-510-TX Encoder

Most Innovative Camera

Blackmagic Design: Blackmagic PYXIS 6K

Canon: EOS C400

Promethean: 4K ePTZ Camera

Most Innovative Collaboration Product

Haivision: Command 360

LG Electronics USA: LG CreateBoard 105-Inch UltraWide Interactive Display

Mersive Technologies: Mersive Pro

Most Innovative Digital Signage Product

BrightSign and LG Electronics USA: LG UV5N Series UHD Displays Running BrightSignOS

Chief: Velocity Outdoor Pedestal System

ViewSonic: LDS138-151 Direct View LED Display Solution Kit

Most Innovative Emerging Technology

Ampetronic and Listen Technologies: Auri

Crestron Electronics: Automate VX

QSC: Q-SYS Reflect

Most Innovative KVM Solution

Matrox Video: Avio 2

Most Innovative Speaker Solution (Installed)

Bose Professional: Forum FC112

Shure: Microflex Loudspeakers

Sonos: Era 100 Pro

Most Innovative Sustainable Product Strategy

LED Studio: ECLIPSE

Most Innovative Video Display

MAXHUB: DVLED Raptor Series V3

Planar: DirectLight Slim Series

PPDS: Philips TruePerformance LED

Most Innovative Video Projection Solution

Epson America: PowerLite L695SE

Panasonic Projector & Display Americas: PT-RQ7

Most Innovative Videoconferencing Product

Vaddio: EasyIP Dock

Each of the nominated products were submitted by their respective manufacturers. Industry professionals were able to vote for their favorite products through a ballot accessed through avnetwork.com. Up to three winners were selected in each category, based on the number of entries. The nominated product must have first shipped between January 1, 2024, and May 9, 2025. Products that won in last year’s awards program were not eligible in any category this year.

The Pro AV industry is loaded with awards. Hey, even SCN has more than one awards program (and you should be on the lookout for the Installation Product Awards that will be announced at InfoComm in June). But there's something special about the SCN Stellar Service Awards. They recognize excellent service as well as the manufacturers, distributors, and integrators that provide it. Once again, we received thousands of votes across eight award categories from you, our readers—thank you for taking part. And now, here are this year's providers of exceptional service.

Best Design Services/Tools

Platinum: Sennheiser Control Cockpit

Sennheiser’s Control Cockpit is the trusted software tool for seamless audio management, empowering integrators and IT teams to turn ambitious UC concepts into reality. The centralized software provides effortless control, monitoring, and maintenance for entire microphone ecosystems, including Sennheiser’s EW-DX4, SpeechLine, and TeamConnect products. Offering a real-time, browser-based interface accessible from any device, it ensures complete visibility over all network-enabled devices, streamlining even the most complex AV installations. Advanced features such as global system statistics, instant notifications, and remote configuration enable users to manage setups with ease at any scale, including multicampus deployments. With powerful search and filter functions, intuitive device grouping, and real-time status updates, Control Cockpit reduces downtime and simplifies troubleshooting—enhancing efficiency for corporate boardrooms, higher education, and large venue installations.

Gold: Draper Managed Services

Silver: L-Acoustics Milan Manager

Best Online Shopping Experience

Platinum: BZBGEAR

BZBGEAR combines an intuitive, feature-rich platform with excellent customer support. Its website is designed to provide AV professionals and broadcasters a seamless shopping experience to find the right gear. Through advanced search filters, detailed product pages, and real-time inventory updates, customers can quickly locate their ideal needs. A product comparison tool helps make informed decisions, while pristine images, product videos, and downloadable spec sheets and manuals offer complete transparency. The BZBGEAR online shopping experience enables users to discover solutions tailored to their needs. An interactive BZBGEAR Configurator provides step-by-step guidance for selecting compatible devices, streamlining system design, and customers benefit from live chat support where knowledgeable AV experts assist in real time.

Best Online Training

Platinum: SynAudCon Online Audio Training

For more than 50 years, SynAudCon has been teaching audio practitioners and professionals. Here is some feedback from course graduates:

• "I enjoyed the course. There were many things I considered basic before taking the course, but after taking the course I learned that I was misinformed. I will carry over this information to my workplace and be able to explain to my peers the correct way of doing things and most importantly why it must be done this way." A.G.

• "I thought this course was great. I found that although I already had a good bit of knowledge on sound systems, the course really helped fill in some gaps. The material was clear cut and framed in a way that just made sense. I will gladly recommend this course to others in the field.” C.N.

Gold: QSC Q-SYS Control and UCI Training Series

Silver: Crestron Electronics Crestron Technical Institute

Best Project Management Tools

Platinum: XTEN-AV

XTEN-AV's cloud-based software lets users complete their AV designs, create proposals, and manage projects and tasks on a single platform. This makes the XTEN-AV a single source of truth for all kinds of project, design, and sales data—easily accessible and completely human and machine agnostic. A built-in diagramming tool, X-DRAW, offers users patented drawing automation with AV-specific capabilities. Users can also use corrective AI to identify and rectify incorrect connections. X-VRSE, the VR platform, lets users design their AV rooms on a VR platform and visualize them. And with the newest launch, X-Pro, users can manage tasks and create events, facilitated by robust analytics and a review page, offering performance metrics, milestone tracking, and actionable insights for smarter project management.

Gold: ProjX360

Silver: D-Tools

Best Sales Operation

Platinum: Extron

When customers call Extron, there is an actual, experienced person to answer and assist with any product question or issue. The company's Sales Support Team is international, so expert advice is never far, wherever in the world customers may be. Whether getting need advice in selecting the right AV solution, assistance in addressing technical issues, or placing an order, Extron delivers timely, reliable, and professional help along the way.

Gold: Sound Productions Pro Audio, Video, and Lighting Sales

Silver: Listen Technologies Sales Operations Team

Best Supporting Content

Platinum: Extron

Extron Insiders can access a comprehensive library of exclusive tools, training materials, and product insights designed to support AV professionals at every stage of system design and integration. From AutoCAD, Visio, and Revit libraries to detailed A&E specifications, block diagrams, and panel drawings, Extron provides the technical documentation needed to streamline project planning and execution. Beyond documentation, Extron Insiders gain access to an extensive video library, featuring how-to guides, out-of-the-box demonstrations, and educational technology insights to help users configure and deploy AV systems efficiently. Insiders also benefit from direct access to configuration tools, firmware downloads, and repair services.

Gold: Exertis Almo The E4 Experience

Silver: Shure User Guides

Best Tech Support

Platinum: Matrox Video

Matrox Video’s technical support isn’t just a help desk—it’s an extension of the company's product development team. Support specialists are deeply embedded in Matrox Video’s software and hardware workflows, ensuring unparalleled knowledge and assistance. Unlike traditional call centers, its team actively participates in product design, bug triaging, and product review meetings, allowing them to address issues at the root level. With team members boasting more than 15 years of extensive experience in the Pro AV industry, Matrox Video continues to assist customers with products that have been in the field for decades. Beyond troubleshooting, Matrox Video acts as the voice of the customer, relaying real-world insights to our development teams to drive continuous product improvement.

Gold: Shure Customer Experience Team

Silver: PTZOptics Tech Support

Best Value-Added Services

Platinum: Shure Wireless Workbench and ShureCloud

Shure’s Wireless Workbench (WWB) and ShureCloud provide value-added services to Shure’s product portfolio, ensuring seamless wireless management and remote device control. WBB offers real-time frequency coordination, monitoring, and control, enabling audio professionals to manage complex RF environments—all at no extra cost. With advanced scanning and interference detection, WBB maximizes spectrum efficiency. ShureCloud enhances the Shure ecosystem by enabling secure, cloud-based device management and firmware updates. Users can remotely monitor system performance, ensuring optimal operation without the need for on-site troubleshooting. This remote capability enhances workflow flexibility and efficiency.

Gold: Exertis Almo LinkLab Professional Services

Silver: Epson America Expert Support Team—Projectors

AVT Question: Please share how technologies are helping to reshape the workplace and create user-friendly environments.

Thought Leader: Jatan Shah, President at QSC

Organizations are increasingly prioritizing intelligent spaces that enhance collaboration, energy efficiency, and overall workplace experience. As companies reassess their real estate strategies, there is a growing emphasis on optimizing underutilized spaces through technology-driven solutions that foster seamless communication and sustainability.

Advancements in technology, including sensors and AI-assisted workflows, are making hybrid work setups increasingly efficient and seamless. These innovations enable spaces to adapt in real time, supporting a blend of in-person and remote collaboration while enhancing productivity and user experience.

Scalable and adaptive technology is becoming essential for cost-effective integration, ensuring workplaces can evolve alongside shifting business needs while maintaining long-term value. The intersection of data, automation, and smart infrastructure is enabling environments that respond dynamically to occupant behavior, improving both operational efficiency and user experience.

The ability to harness data from built environments—ranging from space utilization to energy consumption and user interactions—is unlocking new opportunities for workplace optimization and strategic decision-making. By leveraging these insights, organizations can create environments that support productivity, enhance employee engagement, and drive more sustainable business practices. This evolving landscape underscores the importance of solutions that drive efficiency, engagement, and innovation—shaping the future of work.

The University of Nebraska has a storied history when it comes to college football. What it didn't have was a centralized location for its current Big 10 football operations. Take SCN Top 50 systems integrator ECC—and a $165 million construction budget for the new Osborne Legacy Complex—and that is no longer the case. Based in Lincoln, NE, ECC has a longstanding 30-year relationship with its hometown college and was the easy choice for the latest addition to campus.

[The Integration Guide to Digital Signage 2024]

The Osborne Legacy Complex dons the name of College Football Hall of Fame coach Tom Osborne, who was a big part of that storied history, leading Big Red to three national championships from 1994-97. Now, the 315,000-square-foot facility is home to Huskers football's entire football operations. This includes a wide array of football offices, meeting rooms, and walkthrough areas, as well as the Ndamukong Suh Strength and Conditioning Center, main student-athlete dining and academic center for all 22 sports, and the Hall of Champions curated experience.

“We will point back to the completion of this facility as a landmark event in everything that happens going forward,” Nebraska athletics director Troy Dannen posted on X to commemorate the official opening of the complex last September.

Less Complex Operations

The complex was a necessity to make things, well, less complex. Prior to the Osborne Legacy Complex, football operations were housed throughout the Huskers football venue, Memorial Stadium, and made simple tasks like coaches' meetings an ordeal that sometimes required walking from one of the interconnected complexes to another.

"The Osborne Legacy Complex was built to invest into one of the most comprehensive student-athlete experiences in the country and bring the Nebraska football program operations under one single, accessible facility," explained Mark Allen, account manager for ECC.

[Diamond Days and Displays]

To make the Osborne Legacy Complex come to life, ECC installed a smorgasbord of Pro AV. However, per Allen, one of the earliest challenges was "meeting the stringent project schedule required to complete such a large-scale project and coordinating the system implementation with the various construction teams’ schedules that directly affected the implementation process."

Construction began in January 2021 and ECC received its project order for the AV systems in July 2022, with the installations process beginning later that fall. All systems were go for this past college football season.

Big AV for Big Red

There is AV aplenty throughout the complex, ranging from high-tech audio, visually stunning displays (like the wall-to-ceiling video wall in the primary locker room), and digital signage systems primarily showing off Husker football promotional content from both current day and historical programs and players.

The video walls were one of the more challenging pieces of the equation. There are a variety of Samsung displays throughout the complex, like the massive 85-inch 4K display in the football equipment rooms and the 98-inch commercial 4K display in the offense and defense staff conference rooms selected by engineering and technical services firm Salas O'Brien.

"The biggest driving piece behind the selection process for the complex’s video walls and displays was due to the product availability in alignment with the project’s timeline," Allen said. "As the project was extremely complex with multiple moving parts, the availability of products began to change based on the timeline at hand, which required strategically changing to some other manufacturers that still achieved the desired high-end quality."

As Allen explained, the audio systems were also a bit tricky as there is not one unified system throughout the complex. Like the displays and projectors, the audio systems were designed and selected by Salas O'Brien and include loudspeakers from Fulcrum Acoustics, subwoofers from JBL, a Holosonics audio spotlight system, and a variety of products from Shure, just to name a few. The systems encompass the entirety of the complex in the Hall of Champions, Ndamukong Suh Strength and Conditioning Center, Hawks Outdoor Practice Field, Athletic Medicine Area, Howard and Rhonda Hawks Gaming Theatre, Brook Berringer Players’ Lounge, Frank Solich Locker Room, Walkthrough Room, Team and Position Meeting Rooms, Bruce Grewcock Family Head Coach’s Office and Lounge Area, and Ricketts Family Football Team Auditorium.

"The bigger systems have interconnection through the QSC Q-SYS Core processors that they operate on—and as such can be interconnected—but these usually run as standalone systems in typical use cases," Allen explained. "The smaller audio systems run exclusively as standalone systems. If there’s a need to, audio can be pushed from the Memorial Stadium core audio system into the core Osborne Legacy Complex audio system utilizing networked QSC Q-SYS Core processors."

Each space has QSC touchscreen displays while Mersive's Solstice wireless sharing allows for content sharing via BYOD devices. Each touchpanel controls AV settings like volume as well as gear, such as Panasonic PTZ cameras.

A prime example of where all the technology comes together is the Brook Berringer Players’ Lounge. Here a Samsung 2x4 video wall and JBL loudspeakers are used by players for entertainment. A theater, located inside, employs a single-display video wall and Fulcrum Acoustic loudspeakers that are powered by a Dolby Atmos and DTS:X home theater processor and QSC power amplifiers.

Now, how about those projectors? Both Christie and Barco projectors were used in different spaces. The Walkthrough Room, for example, uses five 25,500-lumen Barco laser video projectors that are "blended together across a 99.6-foot-long Da-Lite video projection wall to create an interactive space for coaches and players to walk through game plans and simulate real game situations at a 1-to-1 scale," Allen said.

ECC turned to Crestron NVX AV-over-IP technology as the Pro AV control system infrastructure behind the complex's systems. Barco video wall processors power both the Experience Lobby video wall and the locker room’s ceiling video wall to deliver engaging 3D, high-performance content. Multiple Extron switchers were also being used behind the scenes to bring the AV experience altogether.

Sign(age) of the Times

With all these massive video walls and 3D displays, digital signage is found throughout the complex. As Allen explained, digital signage drives the overall experience at the Osborne Legacy Complex.

"Some of the digital signage for this content is tailored to the specific space," Allen explained. "For example, the Hall of Champions serves as the front door to Husker football using interactive displays to tell the story of Husker football."

Another shining example is in the Ndamukong Suh Strength and Conditioning Center, where digital signage details the weekly workout leaders to help the team push each other to excel. A built-in Nutrition Station includes digital signage to communicate the nutritional offerings available to the athletes.

"Outside of this area, there’s a blended projection wall marked the 'ONE PERCENT' that details historical performance and workout statistics to help drive top-tier performance," Allen added. "The Jackson Family Recovery Center features two 1x5 SkyVue outdoor-rated video wall systems that communicate detailed recovery information."

Behind the signage, a Four Winds Interactive CMS, which was already familiar to the in-house technical teams, is used for the more interactive and demanding content. For content that’s more informational, Allen explained, Triple Play serves as the CMS, while doubling as the IPTV system throughout the complex.

"The digital signage and AV systems are operated by an in-house, professional team for Husker football that solely manages and creates content for the facility, with additional management and content creation done by Husker Vision, which is the in-house technology team for all of Husker athletics," Allen said. "The technology is primarily utilized by coaches, student athletes, and in some cases by the student-athlete tutors."

ECC and Nebraska hope that they are both revolutionaries in what has been created on campus. But ECC is not done just yet: Several "add-on options" were proposed. And now that the dust has settled, ECC will help implement them to enhance the already strong core systems and make them more efficient.

[SCN Exclusive: Signage Ahoy!]

"ECC always designs and engineers our solutions with future-growth in mind, and the AV systems at the UNL Osborne Legacy Complex are no different," Allen concluded. "The Pro AV and audio systems are built on Crestron NVX and QSC Q-SYS control systems, which are inherently scalable and will both allow for easy scalability in expanding on these systems."

Cindy Davis: First of all, Joe, congratulations on an incredible run. You've just announced your retirement after leading QSC for 21 years. What led to this decision, and why now?

Joe Pham: Thank you, Cindy. It's been an extraordinary journey that I'm immensely proud of. After over two decades at QSC, the timing felt right both professionally and personally. QSC is in a very strong place, especially following the close of our recent acquisition by Acuity, and I have complete confidence in the leadership team we've built. This decision wasn’t made lightly, but I believe it is the right time to pass the torch to the next generation of leaders who will guide QSC forward.

I'm thrilled to announce that Jatan Shah will be leading the organization as President of QSC. I couldn't imagine a better leader for QSC's future. Jatan has been instrumental in our success for years, and I've had the privilege of witnessing firsthand his extraordinary talent, his impact, and his care for our organization.

On a personal level, I'm really looking forward to spending more time with my family. It’s a really big year for us, with each member of the family celebrating an exciting life milestone. These are precious moments I don’t want to miss. It feels somewhat surreal to be stepping away, as I've been working continuously since I was seven years old, starting as a paper boy. There will certainly be an adjustment period, but I'm truly excited about QSC's bright future and embarking on this next chapter of life with my family.

Davis: The AV industry has transformed dramatically during your tenure. What are some of the biggest changes in the industry that you've witnessed over your career?

Pham: It's true—the evolution has been remarkable. When I started out, AV was very hardware-centric and somewhat siloed. We dealt with discrete pieces of equipment for sound, video, and control, all doing their own jobs. Over the years, we've seen a convergence of AV and IT that completely changed the game. Everything moved from analog to digital and then from standalone systems to networked, software-driven platforms. Today, it's not about individual boxes anymore; it's about integrated experiences. We have gone from simple projectors and mixers to complex AV ecosystems that can be monitored, managed, and even updated remotely in the cloud. One of the biggest shifts I've seen is this platform approach—for example, our Q-SYS platform was built as a software-first, networked ecosystem rather than just another piece of hardware. That was a bold move when we initiated it, but it anticipated where the industry was heading. And, of course, the focus now is on user experience and outcomes: how AV technology can create immersive, collaborative environments rather than just deliver audio or video signals. The industry's mindset has broadened; we're thinking in terms of solutions and experiences that bring real value. Also, the pace of innovation has accelerated—new features and capabilities roll out via software updates faster than we ever imagined in the old days. In short, AV has gone from a niche technical field to a truly integrated part of the IT and business strategy for many organizations. It's been exciting to be part of that transformation.

Davis: As someone who's been a key player through this transformation, where do you see the AV industry heading next? What future trends should we be watching?

Pham: I'm incredibly optimistic about where the industry is headed. In the near term, AI and machine learning are going to be game-changers—and we'll talk more about AI in a minute. Beyond AI, we'll continue to see the shift toward cloud-based and hybrid solutions. The pandemic accelerated trends like remote collaboration and virtual/hybrid meeting spaces, and those are here to stay. I think we'll refine those experiences to be even more seamless and engaging. Another big trend is the idea of data—AV systems are generating a wealth of data now. In fact, I often say our industry has an immense amount of data in our AV systems that we haven't fully tapped into, and that data can be extremely valuable in enhancing human connection and improving outcomes​. So, I see a future where we harness analytics and insights from AV data to drive better decision-making and more personalized experiences. Also, expect even tighter integration of AV with other building technologies—from lighting to environmental controls—essentially creating smart, responsive spaces. The lines between AV, IT, and even building management are blurring. Another trend I'm excited about is the continued rise of platform ecosystems and open APIs. This will allow developers and partners to build on top of AV platforms like Q-SYS to add new capabilities, which fosters innovation beyond what any single company could do alone. And, of course, the industry will keep focusing on making technology more intuitive for end-users—perhaps through voice control, AR/VR, or other emerging interfaces. In a nutshell, the future of AV will be about intelligence, integration, and experience. We're heading into an era where AV isn't just supporting the experience—it is the experience, and it's increasingly intelligent and adaptive.

Davis: What challenges do you see ahead for integrators?

Pham: Integrators are facing a fascinating time of both opportunity and challenge. The convergence of AV with AI is creating a landscape that demands new skills and approaches. Perhaps the biggest challenge is keeping pace with the rapid evolution of technology while maintaining profitability. The days when integrators could focus solely on hardware installation are behind us - today's successful integrators need to be consultants, software experts, and business advisors all at once.

The integrators who will thrive are those who view themselves as experience architects rather than just equipment installers. They should focus on the outcomes and experiences they are creating rather than just the technology they are implementing. They'll need to be comfortable with data, analytics, and software-driven systems while never losing sight of the human connection that's at the heart of what we do. Despite the challenges, I'm incredibly optimistic about the future for integrators.

Davis: Speaking of big changes, one of the recent milestones for QSC is the acquisition by Acuity. In the press release, you noted that "bringing QSC together with Acuity underscores the critical role AV technology plays in live, hybrid, and virtual experiences."​ How do you see QSC and the Q-SYS platform fitting into the AV industry post-acquisition? What will QSC's role be within Acuity, and what does it mean for your customers and the industry?

Pham: I'm glad you brought that up. This is something I'm truly excited about for QSC's future. The acquisition by Acuity is a strong endorsement of how important AV has become beyond its traditional borders. Acuity is known for technology for lighting and building management—essentially making buildings and spaces smarter—and they saw QSC and our Q-SYS platform as a key piece of that puzzle. As a part of the Acuity Intelligent Spaces team, QSC helps drive a joint vision of making spaces smarter, safer, and greener through technology that leverages data interoperability​ while adding the element of experience to make that human connection. Concretely, that means our Q-SYS platform can integrate more deeply with building systems like lighting, HVAC, and BMS systems, in addition to doing what it already does with audio, video, and control. For the AV industry, I think it highlights that AV isn't an isolated discipline anymore—it's central to the broader discussion of smart buildings and experiential spaces. QSC's role will continue to be an innovator in AV, but now we have the backing and resources of a larger industrial technology company to accelerate growth. I firmly believe QSC's DNA will continue to thrive within Acuity. In short, QSC and Q-SYS will remain a driving force in AV, now amplified by the reach into intelligent spaces. It's an expansion of scope that can really benefit the AV industry by elevating our technology's importance in the bigger picture.

[Jatan Shah, QSC President Discusses $1.2 Billion Acquisition of QSC by Acuity]

Davis: At InfoComm 2024, you gave the keynote address titled "Everything Has Changed," which focused on AI and the AV industry's future. AI is on everyone's mind. What are your thoughts on artificial intelligence and its impact on AV? How do you envision AI changing the way we design or use AV solutions?

Pham: AI is enormously exciting for me—it's one of the reasons I titled that keynote "Everything Has Changed" because I truly believe we're at an inflection point. In my keynote (view keynote here) I took a bit of a playful look at how technology has evolved and put AI in the context of the major technological revolutions in human history. The crux is that AI has the potential to touch virtually every aspect of our lives, and the AV world is no exception. In fact, I'd argue that the AV industry is uniquely positioned to leverage AI in meaningful ways​. Why? Because at our core, pro AV is about enabling human connection and experience—whether it's in a meeting, a concert, a classroom, or a digital signage context. We generate and use audio and visual data constantly, and AI thrives on data. As I mentioned earlier, our systems produce a wealth of information. If we architect our solutions right—for example, moving to cloud-first platforms so all that data can be aggregated—we can apply AI to really improve outcomes. Let me give you a few examples we're already seeing: AI-driven audio processing can do things like advanced noise cancellation and even isolate or enhance specific voices in a crowded room in ways traditional DSP couldn't. AI in video and control systems means cameras and devices that can automatically adjust settings based on what's happening. Say, a camera that detects a presenter has moved to one side of the stage and automatically reframes, or a system that notices the ambient light in a room has changed and signals the blinds to lower. We're also looking at predictive maintenance: by using machine learning on the data from AV equipment, an AI could predict that a projector lamp or an amplifier is likely to fail soon and alert the technicians before it goes out, preventing downtime. These are powerful improvements. Perhaps even more exciting is that AI might help us derive insights from how people use spaces and systems, leading to better design of experiences. Now, I always temper this with the point that AI in AV should be human-centric—it's not about tech for tech's sake but about enhancing how people communicate, learn, and enjoy content. One thing I emphasized in the keynote is that AV professionals shouldn't be afraid of AI; we should embrace it and help shape it. The AV industry has sometimes been a little behind the IT curve, but this is our chance to be at the forefront. We have creativity and a deep understanding of human experience, so if we combine that with AI's capabilities, the possibilities are endless. Honestly, the only limitation is our imagination at this point​. I see AI as a tool that will empower AV to create more personalized, adaptive experiences—and perhaps even new types of experiences we haven't thought of yet. It's going to change a lot about how we design systems and how end users interact with technology, and I find that incredibly energizing.

Davis: Joe, as you prepare to step away from the day-to-day, what message would you like to share with the AV community?

Pham: I have so much I'd like to say, but I'll keep it to what matters most to me. First, thank you to our partners, customers, industry colleagues, and, of course, the amazing team at QSC. The AV community is truly special. It's hard to leave a role I've loved, but I'm filled with gratitude for the relationships and the accomplishments we've achieved together. I often say that QSC itself is the achievement I'm most proud of, and that's really because of the people​– the passionate, innovative individuals in our company and the wider industry who make magic happen every day. I'm humbled and grateful to have played a part in this community for so long. Twenty-one years ago, I left McKinsey to follow my passion for music and join this industry. What began as a pursuit of my love for music and desire to be a CEO has evolved into the journey of a lifetime at QSC. Over two decades, I've witnessed our company transform repeatedly, evolving into a technology platform leader today. QSC has come full circle for me, from my passion for music to my obsession with disruptive technology and innovation. The greatest gift throughout this journey has been the extraordinary people I've had the privilege to work with. It's remarkable that in following your heart, life rewards you with richness beyond measure. This industry has a bright future. Embrace the changes (like AI, new business models, and convergences with other industries) and keep the focus on why we do this in the first place: connecting people, moving people, and creating experiences. Also, remember to enjoy the journey. One of our values at QSC has been Work hard and Enjoy Life, and I truly hope everyone in this industry can do that—take the work seriously, but don't forget to have fun and take care of yourselves and each other along the way. I'll always be an AV guy at heart. I'll be cheering QSC and the industry from the sidelines, excited to see what comes next. Thank you for everything, and here's to the next generation of AV leaders continuing to amaze us.

QSC launched the KC12 “K Column” Active 3-Way Column Loudspeaker System. The new KC12 expands the World of K portfolio with a three-way, 3000-watt active loudspeaker system encompassing the visual aesthetic of a column loudspeaker. Simple and easy to deploy, the KC12, available in black and white, is ideal for a wide range of customers and applications from solo entertainers, musicians and bands, mobile entertainers and DJs to corporate AV, event production, and static installations. 

[Jatan Shah, QSC President Discusses $1.2 Billion Acquisition of QSC by Acuity]

Column-style portable loudspeaker systems are most often put into service due to their unobtrusive form factor. However, typical designs lack clarity and definition, particularly when pushed to high output levels, forcing the user into a form-over-function compromise. Solving this common dilemma, the KC12 utilizes a 3-way design featuring QSC’s patented LEAF waveguide (first introduced in L Class Active Line Array Loudspeakers) combined with a true 1-inch compression driver, two 4-inch midrange drivers and a high output 12-inch subwoofer, while still maintaining the desired, elegant appearance of a “column” system. The KC12 produces an outstanding full-range horizontal coverage of 145 degrees and 35 degrees of audience-directed vertical coverage with clean and natural sound at all output levels.

The system features three inputs: a Bluetooth input combined with a 3.5 mm TRS stereo input, as well as two combo XLR inputs (Mic/Line/Hi-Z and Mic/Line/+48 V), with independent, assignable Factory Presets for each XLR input, making it ideal for small events where two microphones are needed for different uses. The rear panel incorporates a multi-function digital display, offering control and selection of several loudspeaker functions, including Global Parametric EQ, Subwoofer level, Presets and Scenes, Bluetooth configuration, Delay (maximum of 200 ms) or Reverb. Bluetooth functionality also provides True Wireless Stereo (TWS), which ensures low latency pairing between the music source and both left and right loudspeakers simultaneously.

[Exploring the Evolution of Audio]

“The KC12 exquisitely resolves the form-over-function compromise that has frustrated users of this category of products since they made their market introduction over 20 years ago,” states David Fuller, VP product development, QSC Audio. “With the benefit of time, experience, extensive customer research, and cutting-edge innovation, our talented design team has truly created something very different from the status quo – not simply a differentiated product, but an overall better solution for the customer.”  

The feature set and performance characteristics of the KC12 are complemented by a new, advanced amplifier platform, first incorporated into the L Class LS118 subwoofer released this past October. “Among the platform’s key attributes are layers of real-time telemetry and protection to ensure uninterrupted performance day after day, which is a foundational QSC brand attribute,” Fuller added.

A recent survey conducted by the Professional Audio Manufacturers Alliance (PAMA) of its member companies showed that about 86% of respondents were moderately to majorly affected by pandemic-born supply chain disruptions and the simultaneous interruptions in semiconductor fabrication. PAMA revisited the topic of supply chain issues with the survey to get an overview of lessons learned and whether any concerns still lingered.

None of the respondent companies claimed they were unaffected by the supply chain crisis, though 14% said they were barely affected. That said, supply chain issues and the shortfall in semiconductor availability had major or high impact on how 72% of the manufacturers source materials and components.

[Product Review: Sennheiser Keeps It Simple]

“We committed substantial resources to increase our inventory,” said Chris Regan, chief innovation officer and co-founder of RF Venue (and chair of PAMA’s board of directors). “Luckily, we did not experience the long-term stockouts that affected other manufacturers. We relentlessly marketed the fact that we had product in stock and gained a lot of new business as a result when competitors could not ship their product.”

On average, respondents said that the way their company designs and develops products was only mildly affected by the supply chain disruptions, though the responses varied widely, with 57% saying there was little effect and 43% citing a moderate to high degree of impact. Also, more than half of respondents said the supply chain disruptions minimally affected or had no effect on their product shipping and distribution methodologies, but 43% said those methodologies were majorly or highly affected.

David Fuller, VP of engineering and product management—pro audio, QSC, noted that pro audio "took a backseat to the automotive industry with regards to prioritization of IC supply.” Remaining post-crisis concerns relate to shipping times and rates for some respondents, whether by ocean, air, or land. QSC’s Fuller specifically noted shipping time concerns “in the Red Sea and Panama Canal.”

According to Regan, the lessons learned during the pandemic are now entrenched in the industry's best practices. For example, James Lamb, president, CEO, and co-founder of Point Source Audio, reported that pandemic-era issues are not lingering, though his company is “constantly checking for issues with raw materials.” Greg Beebe, EVP United States, Sennheiser, said the company has implemented "strategic purchasing and redesign” and remains vigilant over maintaining inventory.

[Supply Chain Lessons Learned]

Regan said RF Venue is currently not experiencing any unordinary supply chain issues. "Because of the supply chain disruptions in the market, we proactively made the move to design, build, and test our products in the USA,” he explained. “It may not be an approach that works for all products, and in certain cases it is more expensive, but when you factor in the amount of cash that needs to be tied up for large overseas suppliers and add in the freight costs and time delay for delivery, being in control of production in-house becomes a very attractive option. I see other manufacturers doing the same and have a sense that there is a large ‘onshoring’ effort going on in the U.S. across many industries.”

On Oct. 24, Acuity Brands announced it has reached a definitive agreement to acquire QSC for $1.2 billion ($1.1 billion net of approximately $100 million in estimated tax benefits). Neil Ashe, chairman, president, and CEO of Acuity Brands, said the acquisition of QSC builds on the company’s vision of data interoperability as it works to make spaces smarter, safer, and greener.

“In our Intelligent Spaces business, we are delivering meaningful outcomes for end users that are powered by disruptive technologies and that generate strong financial results,” Ashe explained. “QSC has built a differentiated cloud-manageable audio, video, and control platform that controls what happens in a built space.”

SCN has confirmed the entire QSC business—both the Q-SYS and the QSC Audio brands—will become a part of Acuity’s Intelligent Spaces Group business unit. A cloud-first architecture, Q-SYS combines AI, machine learning, and computer vision into a unified AV platform for audio, video, and control solutions. It has broad applications across multiple vertical markets, including education, commercial, hospitality, government, healthcare, and transportation. QSC Audio delivers audio solutions for live sound, cinema, and installed sound applications. The company split its operations into the two divisions in July 2022.

"We are excited to be joining a company that is aligned around our long-term mission and shares our values,” said Joe Pham, chairman and CEO of QSC. “Our shared vision of how we can leverage data with our technology solutions will elevate our ability to service our end users and drive growth.”

[Joe Pham Looks at a Future of AV and AI]

According to Acuity, the net purchase price represents approximately 14 times QSC’s estimated EBITDA for the last 12 months ending Aug. 31, 2024. (QSC delivered sales of approximately $535 million during the same time period.) It is expected to be accretive to Acuity’s’ fiscal 2025 full-year adjusted diluted earnings per share.

QSC is releasing a major update v2.1 for its SysNav (System Navigator) software. QSC SysNav is an iPadOS and Windows application intended to be used with QSC next-generation, intelligent, L Class compatible loudspeaker systems. The software allows the user to easily design, configure, control, monitor and apply signal processing to individual loudspeakers, full arrays or groupings of both, providing a rich, detailed and intuitive control and monitoring environment, from pre-deployment loudspeakers’ parameter setup to post-show review of equipment operation logs.  

[Lessons Learned from a Lost Tablet]

The v2.1 release brings a suite of highly anticipated new capabilities including:  

• Inventory function which provides a means to create and save systems offline and connect virtual loudspeakers and arrays to physical devices.
• System Designs including Inventories and DSP settings for arrays and loudspeakers that may be created, saved, recalled and applied to physical devices.
• User-adjustable EQ and filters, including a 6-band parametric EQ as well as high-pass filters for use with QSC and generic active subwoofers.
• Improvements and refinements to the SysNav AIM (Array Installation Modeling) prediction tool including addition of subwoofer stacking deployment options.
• Updated firmware (version v1.2) for LA108 and LA112 Active Line Array Loudspeakers.
• Support for the LS118 (4 kW, single 18 inch) Active Subwoofer.  

QSC is now shipping its LS118 Active Subwoofer. The subwoofer delivers additional performance above and beyond the initially published preliminary specification, now boasting a 4000-watt power amplifier producing a clean and undistorted 138 dB of peak SPL. 

[Out of Sight Sound]

Further product refinements include the ability to generate a cardioid radiation pattern (using two or more units) providing up to 15 dB of rejection behind the subwoofers’ arrangement. The on-board DSP now provides optimal cardioid performance for three recommended deployments options (back-to-back, side-by-side, stacked). For ease of transport, installation and deployment, the LS118 is equipped with four heavy-duty, nonlocking, low noise 4-inch casters.  

Willie Mays. Juan Marcial. Barry Bonds. The San Francisco Giants have had some of the brightest and best to step on a major league baseball field.

Oracle Park, home of the Giants, has continuously aimed to have the technology to match.

The Giants played their first game at Oracle Park on April 11, 2000, in a victory over the San Diego Padres. After a decade of playing in the venue, they celebrated the dawn of the 2010s with three World Series titles in five years (2010, 2012, and 2014).

[Diamond Days and Displays]

Welcome to 2024, where bigger is better. Bigger hot dogs, bigger home runs, and certainly bigger, louder, and more immersive sound. To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the ballpark, Giants Enterprises turned to Diversified to amp up the fan experience.

Opening Day Jitters

The Giants organization had a huge advantage in quickly installing a new sound system, having partnered with Diversified on many projects since Oracle Park opened its doors. When it was time for the new sound system, they knew exactly where to look.

“[Diversified] brought meticulous attention to detail from the onset of this project,” said Bill Schlough, chief information officer, San Francisco Giants. “When it came to providing manufacturer options, exploring system design improvements, and communication throughout the bidding process, Diversified was unbeatable. Our confidence in the Diversified team during the design and planning process only grew as we proceeded with the implementation, as they stayed on top of every detail, ultimately delivering a transformational audio experience to our fans at Oracle Park—ahead of schedule and under budget.”

[What to Know about the Grass Valley, Diversified Strategic Partnership]

Ahead of schedule was the key. Oracle Park isn't simply the home of the Giants, but other events—from concerts to the San Francisco Giant Race—take place there as well. Simply put, it wasn't just MLB Opening Day in April Diversified had to be ready for, but several events in early 2024 that could wreak havoc on an install in such a large venue. Diversified stepped up to the plate and hit one out of the park, finishing the project three months ahead of schedule.

“Our on-site crews were incentivized to finish the biggest sections before full stadium events scheduled for early in 2024,” explained Jeff Dykhouse, solutions architect, large venue sound at Diversified. “If we could finish before those events, we wouldn’t need to tear down the scaffolding for the event weekends and then put it back up again. So, the teams put in the extra planning and effort to make this happen.”

Everything seemingly fell right into place—but while it may have seemed relatively simple, it didn't come without adversity. Though Dykhouse pointed out the longstanding relationship with Oracle Park made the two a dream team, he also reminded that any project would have its challenges.

[Check Out the New LED Look for Penn State]

"In this case,” he explained, “one [challenge] was the many events planned throughout the year that required a functioning sound system. To support weekend events, we created a few one-off setups composed of replaced sections blended with existing sections. Another challenge was access. Many speakers were not reachable by boom lifts, so we deployed significant scaffolding, which had to move around the bowl with the demolition and installation teams.”

Batter Up

The original distributed sound system was ahead of the game in 2000; however, its focus was on intelligibility and spoken word. Both are still important 25 years later, but new systems simply need to do more. The Giants wanted a more "theatrical experience" for its fans, which means not only a highly intelligible sound system, but one that delivers high-fidelity music for a more immersive experience.

Thus, the new system provided a much wider frequency range and "dynamic headroom for modern music and game production audio,” Dykhouse explained. “This was accomplished by using high-performance, long-throw speakers, eliminating most 70-volt speakers and adding 21-inch subwoofers around the bowl."

Although the loudspeakers from the original sound system impressively still worked, they were near end of life. But that original successful installation gave Diversified ideas and opportunities. "The previous installation did a nice job covering most of the seating areas," said Dykhouse. “In addition to upping overall system performance, we took advantage of the opportunity to rethink areas that previously experienced reduced intelligibility or had weak output. We also brought up the outfield experience to match the main bowl.”

The upgrade focused on the acoustic experience throughout Oracle Park and included all public area sound systems as well as the Gotham Club, executive meeting rooms, and other private spaces. Dykhouse and his team turned to the Yamaha CL5 for its audio console as well as Shure Axient microphones. A QSC Q-SYS Core 5200 provides the digital signal processing, while Powersoft Quattrocanali 8804 and 4804 DSP+D and various QSC CX-Q models amplify the sound throughout Oracle Park. During an event or a game, the production team triggers presets in Q-SYS—which include batting practice, pre-game show, the National Anthem, and others—to configure each zone and subsystem.

There was a bevy of Fulcrum loudspeakers and subwoofers were used around the different stadium zones, while JBL CBT Series column speakers were used on concourses and compact Fulcrum Acoustic RX Series speakers were placed at the entrances. "Oracle Park has three types of concourses,” Dykhouse explained. “Open to the bowl, enclosed behind glass, and open but so far away that bowl sound doesn’t reach them. Each of those zones required a different approach. Dynamics processing in Q-SYS creates these zone-specific mixes automatically from console feeds."

[Evolution of a Sports Network]

It's clear the Giants are committed to providing a technologically enhanced game-day experience to its fans, one that continues to reinvent itself through its partnership with Diversified. And thus far, the results seem to be paying off.

"In a recent survey of fans, 87% of respondents were 'Highly Satisfied' or 'Somewhat Satisfied' regarding the sound quality and volume throughout the game,” reported Alex Gannon, AV engineer, San Francisco Giants. “While it’s impossible to please everyone, fans and staff alike have been extremely impressed with the improved dynamic range and clarity that we are now able to deliver throughout the ballpark.”

AV/IT TEAM: Waikuen Yee, director of IT Project Management; Lubomir Smilenov, IT project manager; Thomas Mariutto, senior manager of Telecommunications; Joseph Blando, senior manager of Network Services; Bradford Terry, manager of Educational Media; Oneil Morgan, AV technician supervisor; Georgia King, AV support specialist; Constantine Vasilevsky, operations supervisor of Educational Media; George Chacko, director of Educational Media

GOALS: The goal of this project was to make 15 Beekman, a building on Pace University’s NYC campus, a leader in technology innovation when it comes to teaching and real hands-on learning experiences. Consistently integrating state-of-the-art technologies into classrooms, event spaces, and innovation labs, we aim to create an immersive and dynamic learning environment that empowers students and faculty to actively engage, collaborate, and excel in their academic endeavors.

CHALLENGES: The development of Pace University’s 15 Beekman building faced several challenges, including supply chain disruptions, change orders impacting project scope, budget constraints, unforeseen design changes, and a critical time constraint—all of which required strategic planning, collaboration, and problem solving to successfully overcome and meet project goals.

FINAL INSTALL/USER BENEFITS:  This project benefits the Pace community by providing an enhanced learning environment with innovative classrooms and technology, access to state-of-the-art facilities for events and workshops, seamless technological integration for ease of use, opportunities for creativity and innovation in dedicated spaces like the innovation lab, and ensured accessibility and inclusivity for all users—ultimately contributing to a vibrant and impactful academic and community experience at Pace University’s 15 Beekman building.

AV/IT TEAM: Jeff Levesque, lead information technologist; Ethan Hicks, senior information technologist; James Xiong, information technologist; Katie Babula, AV manager 

GOALS:  The Robert J. Higgins Welcome Center is the heart of the public-facing side of the University of Rhode Island. Built in 2018, it hosts dinners, board meetings, and retreats, on top of being the entry point for all prospective students and their families. The original AV design did not take into account the variety of happenings in the space, and the emergence of hybrid events meant the system needed an overhaul to meet the necessity of current demands on the building.

The main purpose of this project was to update the AV in two presentation rooms and a conference room, in addition to adding audio playback and announcement functions in the public-facing spaces. This redesign needed to take into account the flexibility of functions in the building and allow the building to work as both individual spaces and a cohesive unit.

CHALLENGES:  Consolidation of three separate AV systems into one building-wide system necessitated the installation of an entirely new dedicated AV network. It took a coordinated effort by our entire four-person team to find pathways all throughout the building and pull the thousands of feet of category cable necessary for installing over 60 new network drops. Once all the new cabling was in place, standing up the new network became the next challenge to ensuring that all audio, video, and control passed along this network without any issues.

Furthermore, the size of the main presentation space presented challenges from an audio perspective. Vaulted ceilings and no attic access meant traditional ceiling or suspended microphones were not an option. A combination of several solutions was required to adequately amplify presenters’ voices while also capturing audience interactions for hybrid events.

FINAL INSTALL/USER BENEFITS: The most immediately apparent benefit of the project is the ability for the spaces to quickly pivot between the different events happening each day. When the morning’s information session wraps up, tour guides in the lobby can easily make announcements to direct families out into the campus. As they file out to explore the beauty of Rhode Island, the presentation room is already being flipped into lecture mode for that evening’s presentation on the similarities between poker and personal finance. The interconnectedness of the spaces allows for events to overflow into other spaces at a moment’s notice, without requiring the full team of AV technicians on site. 

With the addition of cameras and microphones, each meeting space can host hybrid meetings or presentations, whether from the in-room computer or the user-provided laptop. The combination of the Shure microphones and QSC PTZ cameras within the Q-SYS environment allows for automatic preset recall to supply meaningful camera shots as the speaker moves around the room, which elevates the hybrid experience in any of the three presentation spaces.

As of 2024, the Pro AV industry continues to remain largely male (and largely white). To combat the ongoing issue of attracting top talent, organizations within the industry have more work to do in attracting and supporting a more diverse workforce, including women of all ethnic backgrounds.

However, one of the challenges that organizations face, is that Pro AV careers are still a bit of a secret. Little Suzy may dream of being an architect when she grows up, but she probably hasn’t considered experiential AV design because she’s never heard of it.

[Viewpoint: Bringing Women Back to Pro AV]

According to Christina Cruzeiro, co-chair of the AVIXA Women’s Council and regional sales manager for Canada at Atlona, this is beginning to change. “A lot of companies are starting to realize that they can’t let people continue to fall into this industry,” she said. “Organizations [need] to be part of the solution and part of training people earlier that this is an option, this could be a career for you.”

Pro AV also needs more women in leadership, argued Jennifer Goodyer, founding board member of WAVIT, co-founder of Rosie Riveters Explores Pro AV, and sales director at RT Sales. When organizational leadership is primarily made up of white men, it’s difficult to gain diverse insight and perspective. “It’s all fine and dandy if you have diversity on the lower rungs [of the ladder], but if there’s no one actually influencing the decisions being made, you’re not going to see change,” she said.

Barriers to Entry

In 2023, women made up 15% of attendees at both Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) and InfoComm, according to AVIXA. While this is a slight increase over previous years—13% and 14% percent of attendees were women at ISE and InfoComm, respectively, in 2019—women remain a minority. This makes it difficult to attract them to the industry, explained Gina Sansivero, president of WAVIT (Women in AV/IT) and VP of marketing and corporate communications at AtlasIED. “When there are so few women [in Pro AV], it’s really hard to convince other women that there’s a place for them here,” she added.

Jan Sandri, co-founder and president of FSR, noted that between 78-80% of her organization’s employee population is made up of minorities. She explains that women hold supervisory positions in all aspects of the company, including in the metal shop, electronics production floor, supply chain management, and human resources.

Sandri attributes FSR’s diverse workforce to a mindset that values top talent, no matter the candidate’s race, religion, or gender. “The people who are in charge of hiring—whether it’s a manager or an HR person—have to be open to the fact that we accept everyone,” she said.

Advancing Careers

Sarah Joyce, chief global officer at AVIXA, realyed that when she mentors women seeking to advance their careers, she encourages them to develop a broad spectrum of business skills. She also urges women to educate themselves on subjects that are outside of their own roles and experiences, so they can expand their knowledge and avoid being pigeonholed. “Go to a finance course; you don’t need to be an accountant, but understand finance and business planning,” she said.

[Pro AV Labor Pains]

It’s also necessary to voice one’s desire to pursue a certain career path. “You have to speak up,” Sandri said. “If you want to move up or change [roles], you have to speak up for yourself, because the people in charge are not mind readers.”

Tammy Fuqua, co-chair of the AVIXA Women’s Council and developer partner manager at QSC, noted that for women to gain credibility, they must demonstrate their competence. “I know it can be super-intimidating being the only woman in the room—I’ve been the only woman in the room many times,” she said. “But when you show that you know what you’re talking about and find that voice, then speak up and use it.”

Building a varied skillset early on can be of great help when women move into leadership positions, said Danilda Martinez, a producer and editor based in West Palm Beach, FL, and director of programs and outreach at #GALSNGEAR. “The higher you go, the more you can pull from that experience when you wore boots on the ground,” she added. She encourages women to try new things, even when they may not meet 100% of the “necessary” qualifications.

[The Dante (R)evolution]

At the same time, Martinez holds women accountable for the work that they do. This industry requires strong communication and follow through, which, she acknowledged, is required of anyone to succeed in any job. “We’re working in these environments, whether it’s production or installation, where things have to flow smoothly. You need to be able to troubleshoot—to have a Plan B to your Plan B to your Plan B—and constantly show up,” she added.

Harassment: It Still Exists

Several years ago, AVIXA began including a harassment statement in its InfoComm show policy. The organization states that it “will not tolerate harassment of any kind,” including that which is based on “gender, sex, or sexual orientation.”

For AVIXA, harassment "includes but is not limited to offensive gestures and verbal comments, deliberate intimidation, stalking, following, inappropriate photography and recording, sustained disruption of talks or other events, inappropriate physical contact, and unwelcome attention.” Harassment victims are encouraged to report inappropriate conduct to event management during AVIXA events so it can be investigated and addressed.

While this may help protect women on the show floor, it’s after-hours events, client dinners throughout the year, or even run-of-the-mill meetings where sexism and harassment can surface, according to Sansivero. She encourages women who experience sexism and harassment to call it out. “The more we talk about it, the more we push for things like the code of conduct being visible at trade shows, the more we push employers to reprimand behavior like that, the more we require our industry to step up to the plate with respect, the more we’re going to see this dwindle over time, hopefully,” she said.

The goal should be to create a safe space for everyone. “And, if there’s anybody that’s not in line with that," Sansivero added, "then there’s no need for them, there’s no use for them, there’s no future for them here.”

Pro AV: An Easy Sell?

Because they’re often the decision-makers within companies, men in Pro AV are well-positioned to help bring women into leadership roles. Instead of mentoring women, Cruzeiro encourages men to champion them.

A lot of women have mentors—and that's good for anyone's career—but Cruzeiro urges men to go further by going to bat for women they believe have a promising future in Pro AV. “They need to find [a woman] within their organization that are trying to break through and get to that next step in their career, and they need to be that person’s champion,” she said.  

Cruzeiro noted that the industry can also support women by supporting men. She cites workplace flexibility as an example: In many organizations, it’s assumed that women handle the bulk of childcare at home, and thus can benefit from working remotely. Many men, however, would like the opportunity to clock off every now and then to take the kids to their doctors’ appointments and extracurricular activities.

[Viewpoint: Leading by Example]

There is no reason, she argued, that Pro AV companies cannot provide this flexibility to everyone. “Women are not the only ones responsible for parenting,” she said. “Until we fully get that engrained in everyone’s head and it’s a bias that goes away, we’re not going to be on equal footing.”

While the industry has more work to do in building awareness of its existence, selling it to women should be easy. Why? There's the sheer scope of markets AV companies serve, as well as the breadth of different career opportunities they provide, and opportunities to work around the world with a diverse clientele.

“For me, it’s the magic and the science," Joyce explained. "You need the technological understanding, but you also need that little bit of magic—because everything that we’re doing is looking at those important vectors of content, people, and place. Everything we do is about a solution, an outcome, and an experience, whether that’s a corporate suite of videoconferencing rooms or a Taylor Swift concert. That’s why I love it and have stayed in it and wouldn’t wish to be anywhere else.”

Pro AV Women’s Organizations

AVIXA Women’s Council

The mission of the AVIXA Women’s Council is “to provide a global community of AVIXA members and other professionals committed to supporting and empowering women who work in the technology and AV industry.”

“It is a stereotype—but there is science to back it—that we, as women, tend to not think of ourselves as being quite ready for the next role,” said Sarah Joyce, chief global officer at AVIXA. “Empowering women to have the confidence to say, ‘I can do that, I want to do that,” is a really important part of the Women’s Council groups.”

Tammy Fuqua, co-chair of the AVIXA Women’s Council, accepted the role to drive awareness of the opportunities this industry offers. “We want to have more young women come into the industry,” she said. “I feel like I’m doing something to give back to them, to show them that there are pathways into the industry and reasons to stay in the industry.”

 AV Gives

AV Gives shares a continued STEM initiative partnership with Rosie Riveters, a nonprofit that funds free STEM programming to school-age girls. The goal, explained co-founder Jennifer Goodyer, is to let girls know about the Pro AV industry and its career opportunities.

“If we don’t start bringing more diversity into our industry, we’re going to be left in the dust,” Goodyer said. “We need to bring in young, diverse people to the industry, and that’s something that we are focused on with Rosie Riveters.” 

#GALSNGEAR

#GALSNGEAR aims to train and support women in the entertainment and media industries. Through its Tequity Hub, a training and networking platform, students can access upskilling opportunities, with topics including AI, audio workflow, project management, and more.

“We try to create a space in the industry where women can learn these skills,” said Danilda Martinez, director of programs and outreach at #GALSNGEAR. The organization also tries to provide opportunities for women to speak at events to give them more exposure, and offers a space for women to meet each other. “It’s a really cool virtual environment where we connect the industry to women looking for jobs, but also women looking to meet other folks in their industries.” 

WAVIT (Women in AV/IT)

Officially launched in January 2023, WAVIT’s aims “to provide a network that supports and empowers women in the AV and IT industries through education, representation, and inclusion.” The organization addresses issues such as attracting women to AV/IT and retaining them, the gender pay gap, bias, and lack of leadership opportunities.

WAVIT president Gina Sansivero explained that the organization also performs outreach to high schools and colleges with the goal of educating students about Pro AV. “We’re helping to create the understanding that we exist [and] there are many different options for getting a job in this industry,” she said. 

Women in Consumer Technology (WiCT)

WiCT strives to provide an environment where women can build their professional networks and develop their careers. The organization hosts live and virtual events through which its members can connect, educate each other, and exchange ideas.

These networking opportunities are the reason that Carol Campbell, founder, encourages young women to join industry groups. “These are organizations where you find yourself—on a committee, on a working group, on whatever it is—with Ms. Senior VP, with Mr. EVP, with Ms. Position That You Aspire To, and you get to know them,” she said. “The opportunity here to stand out is tremendous. You have to get involved.”

Designed in Collegiate Gothic style, Princeton University Chapel in Princeton, NJ, is believed to be one of the largest university chapels in the world. Visitors to the chapel come for worship, weddings, and musical performances, enjoying an aesthetic that reminds them of days of yore.

Unfortunately, so did the audio system.

Washington Professional Systems, which installed the existing sound system in the 1990s, was called upon once again to modernize the Princeton Chapel audio system with technology set for the future—all while keeping the integrity of the university's house of worship entering its 96th year of service.

Let There Be Sound

The Princeton Chapel is not simply a historic house of worship, but an elaborately decorated one, with high-arching ceilings, ornate stained-glass windows, and a pipe organ. As John Fish, WPS senior engineer, recalled, the challenging installation required a complex system.

Project engineering began in December 2022, with the installation starting in April 2023. The project was complete in September 2023, though WPS provided some fine tuning throughout October. That's quite impressive, considering the chapel remained in use throughout the project. Per Fish, all work had to cease during services, but could continue in a quiet manner during organ and choir rehearsals.

WPS had the advantage of understanding the old system, which the company installed in the 1990s (and was designed by Acentech). "It was a combination of custom pew-back speakers in the transept and custom-tapered nine-element column arrays throughout the nave," Fish explained. "That the system lasted for 30 years is a tribute to its successful implementation—but within the last decade, the system’s performance certainly suffered from the age of its components."

[The Integration Guide to House of Worship 2023]

The new system, designed by Sam Berkow of SIA Acoustics, includes a wide array of Pro AV solutions. As Fish explained, it uses more than a dozen Renkus-Heinz Iconyx digitally steerable line arrays.

"For the purpose of delivering highly intelligible voice lift, the design could have stopped there," Fish said. "But the system design went on to provide a means to support the extensive use of the space as a performance venue. This was accomplished with the use of 24 Fulcrum Acoustic 5 and 8-inch coaxial speakers mounted within the newly refurbished chandeliers.

"These speakers had the effect of wrapping the listener with music, creating a concert hall like experience for choral and orchestral music," he continued. "These two speaker systems combined to provide very musical and accurate lift and playback of musical performances while simultaneously allowing for highly intelligible speech lift."

Also in use is an Allen & Heath Avantis digital mixing console and Dante-based network, plus a Clear-Com communication system, Listen Technologies systems for assisted listening, Shure wireless microphone system, and additional mics from DPA, Earthworks, and Audix.

Chapel-Sized Challenges

According to Fish, the single greatest challenge was matching the right speaker system to the acoustic space, but there were several other challenges that existed simply because of the age and architectural complexities of Princeton Chapel. The building itself has a cruciform shape and a 65-foot vaulted ceiling, which made cabling a great challenge.

"The speakers in the chandeliers were fed from speaker cables that were integrated into the support chains leading into termination cabinets in the attic space," he explained. "They were then routed from the termination cabinets to a tower that ran from the attic to the basement. In the basement, the speaker cables were run in cable tray to the new audio rack location. Each of the 24 chandelier speakers had its own 12-gauge cable that led to three QSC CX-Q 4K8 8-channel amplifiers."

Remember those Renkus-Heinz speakers? Network audio distribution to the speakers was handled using individual home runs of 12-core, single-mode fiber leading down to the new audio rack location. Fish said four of the cores were used for Dante primary and secondary circuiting, while the remaining eight cores are for future implementation of a distributed video system.

[Blaze Audio Solves Challenges of Contemporary Worship Services]

Other challenges included mounting. The chandeliers were renovated with LED lights and had to be lowered, removed, and hoisted back into place once upgraded, making installation of the Fulcrum Acoustic speakers a challenge in both function and time. The architecture made the installation of other speakers tricky as well.

"Mounting of the Iconyx speakers onto the structural columns was especially difficult given that there was not a flat surface to be utilized on any of the columns," Fish noted. "This was made even more difficult given the edict that there was to be no penetration into the stone. Unique brackets, customized for each column, were positioned in the concave space created where two cylindrical details on the columns met. Once the brackets were in place, a vertical custom steel assembly was installed onto the brackets, providing a flat surface onto which the Iconyx columns were mounted."

While the architecture proved challenging, keeping the integrity of that historic pipe organ was essential. "The prime directive for the pipe organ was ‘do no harm,’” said Fish. “Since the pipe organ relies on the acoustics of the chapel, it is sometimes hard to ascertain where the instrument stops and the building begins. There was a small amount of acoustic treatment, designed by SIA Acoustics, put onto the south walls of the transept to control a spectral reflection back into the chancel area. An interesting footnote is that the fabric covering the treatment was printed with a high-resolution image of the stone wall onto which it was installed.

“While there was no real design consideration of the audio system related to the pipe organ, the DPA ST4011C recording mics are positioned to pick up the pipe organ for recording,” Fish added.

Ready for Service

One of the keys of the new sound system was ensuring ease of use. Clergy and staff had to be able to pick up on things relatively quickly to get the right aural tone. WPS installed the system with a “non-operator” mode to simplify the process and allow everyone involved to utilize the audio system for services.

“Multiple presets are accessible on a touchpanel located under the pulpit,” explained Fish.” Each one recalls a unique configuration of the system for each denomination and various weekly events at the chapel’s main altar and the altar in the Marquand Chapel. The 'non-operator' mode is designed to allow for the use of the fixed microphones and certain wireless microphones for voice lift.”

The pandemic changed the way people do so many things, and that includes in-person services. The sound system was designed with three modes for broadcasting and streaming. Additionally, there is a rack with an Apple Mac Pro running Avid Pro Tools with four Focusrite RedNet HD32R interfaces for broadcasting. Using the fiber backbone of the system, the rack allows for 128 channels of recording.

The user-friendly design of the sound system has been well-received by both the parishioners and visitors, as well as the Princeton Chapel staff. With advanced capabilities and future-proofed solutions, Princeton Chapel is set for enhanced and crystal-clear auditory experiences for—like its predecessor—another 30 years or more.

“In historic spaces at Princeton University, every alteration must be run through an extensive review process involving Princeton’s architectural team, Princeton’s project management team, the chapel’s operational staff, the audio design consultants, the general contractor, the electrical contractor, and WPS’ project team,” Fish said. “Of greatest importance is listening to everyone who is involved. Great ideas and solutions are not the exclusive domain of architects, designers, and engineers. Simple comments from the loftiest executive to the humblest worker can lead to the best solution.”

[Top Integrators 2023: Challenges for 2024]

"I’ve only heard very positive things," said Rev. Alison L. Boden, Ph.D., dean of religious life and of the chapel, Princeton University. "People can decipher our words and hear music in an appropriately blended way. People who formerly needed assisted hearing devices from the chapel don’t need them anymore. It is much easier to hear what is being said at the lectern and pulpit when you are in the chancel.”

"The chapel lighting restoration and sound system replacement project was a complex project that required attention to detail and collaboration with the design team and client throughout construction, system startup, and turnover," added Alexis Mutschler, assistant director of special projects at Princeton. "WPS was a team player and always prepared with an alternative solution or suggestion on how to better the system to give the university the best sound possible."

The Washington Commanders, one of the oldest NFL franchises, have certainly not been strangers to change over the past few seasons. Now, with the help of Anthony James Partners, the Commanders are bringing more transformation, this time ushering in a new era of gameday AV experiences to Commander fans.

FedExField—which is located in Summerfield, MD and plays host to Commanders football, a slew of musical acts and tours, and even Premier League soccer matches—opened its doors in 1997. Then named Jack Kent Cooke Stadium, the stadium changed its name entering the 2000 NFL season to its current moniker. From 2004-2010, FedExField seated 91,000 people—the most in the NFL—until the stadium contracted the seating to the nearly 68,000 capacity it holds today.

While stadium seating, team ownership, and even the team name have been through numerous transformations over the past decade, the facility's AV offerings had not. According to Royce Wall, vice president, construction services at Anthony James Partners and the lead on the LED design, procurement, and construction oversight at FedExField, the Daktronics displays at the stadium needed to be updated. More than a decade old, the previous displays were faded—and with so many different modules replaced over the years, it took on the appearance of a checkerboard more than a fan-friendly display.

Flash and Flare

The LED enhancement began as early as July 2022, when AJP designed the system and began fielding bid offers. By December, the Commanders had selected ANC to provide not only new gameday and ribbon board displays, but an entire graphics package for the first year. The North American representative for Lighthouse, ANC turned to the company's LED screens for the north and south endzones, game-in-play displays, and the LED ribbon displays encircling the bowl.

"There are endless benefits to working with a trusted single-source solution partner,” explained Alison Burke Benesta, senior director, marketing and branding for ANC. “More than simply adding new digital screens is required to improve a venue's experience fully. Beyond the required technical integration expertise, teams want to take the latest display technologies to the next level.

"Venue display systems must deliver a connected experience visually and behind the scenes. To achieve that, there needs to be a strategic network of complimentary technology and venue solutions, including powerful control software, creative content production, multimedia advertising solutions, ongoing maintenance, and reliable partners that build custom solutions that ensure our client’s success for years to come.”

The main end zone Lighthouse displays are 8mm HD displays (tighter than the previous 23mm displays) that measure 95x26 feet. A pair of ribbon displays flank each scoreboard and measure 2.95x674.5 feet with a 10mm pixel pitch. Four 8mm game-in-play displays were installed throughout the stadium measuring at 4.4x31 feet. ANC also provided a one-year unlimited graphics package that includes, well, everything.

Wall said ANC will handle marketing and other graphics for both main displays and ribbon board displays. "In terms of fan engagement, just think about the ability to highlight 30 sponsors throughout the stadium throughout the experience, along with continued game prompts, touchdowns, get loud, scoreboards, things like that," he added. "ANC is creating all content for the whole year for them."

"ANC Studios designers have an extensive understanding of unique aspect ratios, wrapping content, and visibility,” added Burke Benesta. “Additionally, we utilize the primary objective of the location to creatively produce content for the purpose of the different displays. It’s important when starting the process to keep the big picture of the fan experience in mind. Hence, all boards deliver a fun but cohesive look and still play to their strengths.”

We always hear that new LED displays—which made their FedExField debut during a Premier League doubleheader on July 30—bring a better gameday experience. But what exactly does that mean? "The flash and the flare," Wall explained. "When you sit in these stadiums, you can see the action on the field, but you get more out of it when you watch the high-definition boards. FedExField's new 8mm displays are probably the tightest pixel pitch in the industry; most venues are at about 10mm. Before the upgrade, you really didn't even pay attention to [the displays] because they had no impact. Now it's bright, it's clean, it's fresh, and with the enhanced audio, it's just going to be incredible."

All About the Experience

The audio Wall referred to is a work in progress. As with the LED displays in place, the sound system was old and needed to be replaced. Jack Covert, director of audio and AV engineering at AJP, quickly realized he had a monster on his hands. 

“We recognized based on the complexity and the size of the stadium and access, it was going to be broken into two phases," Covert explained. “The stadium doesn't stop; it doesn't shut down. They've got events, they've got soccer, they've got Beyoncé coming in in a couple of weeks. The amount of staging they do takes—let's put it this way, it's not as fast as halftime at the Super Bowl."

Phase one was ready for the Commanders first NFL preseason home game in mid-August, and phase two will begin as soon as the NFL season ends. During the first phase, AJP identified existing components that could be used for another year.

“It's a distributed system around the stadium everywhere, and you can tell that although it was a thoughtful design originally, a lot of delay fill speakers have been added in different places,” Covert explained. “We had to get around and identify all of that, the condition of that, and the reason it was put in. So, phase one: a new front-of-house mix position refit and a completely new loudspeaker system.” 

With the help of Washington Professional Systems (WPS), AJP selected and installed more than 40 Fulcrum Acoustic FH15 Series loudspeakers, which, according to Covert, cover the majority of the stadium. A Powersoft Unica amplifier system was chosen for its power and reliability. A QSC Q-SYS system is being used for processing, Shure digital wireless improves speech intelligibility for the PA announcers and hosts, while a DiGiCo FOH mixing console brings it all together. 

Phase two will literally take the audio to new heights, as the plan is to install Fulcrum Acoustic AHC Series loudspeakers and US221 subwoofers on the lighting towers at season’s end. 

Covert said the challenge is to offer enhanced live sound that is comparable to audio performance from quality headphones or earbuds. “It's twofold. Number one, certainly we want to enhance the experience for the audience, which means the subwoofer, the sub-low content of the sound system, needs to go down to the bottom of the spectrum,” he noted. “At the same time, we need to be able to have efficient coverage from the upper mids to the high frequencies, defining speech intelligibility, as well as providing that kind of sparkling clean sound that everybody's used to from a full range device.”

Elevated Expectations

Whether it is football or fútbol, fans at FedExField are now engulfed in an experience that touches all the senses. “There's absolutely no doubt in our minds that this upgrade is exactly what is needed at FedExField and is going to elevate the client expectations for the NFL games and other performances in the stadium exponentially," said Covert.

"The upgraded video displays and audio systems are the next steps in modernizing our stadium to create an exciting and immersive gameday experience," added Trista Langdon, senior vice president of operations and guest experience for the Washington Commanders. "The upgraded resolution will immediately improve the in-game experience for our fans by providing crisp views of video content and game information, as well as immersive play-by-play engagement."

According to Wall, with the recent change in ownership, if a new stadium is on the horizon in the not-so-distant future, the Commanders are ready to move forward. “The buy-in to replace these displays was that potentially in the next three to five years, if the team ends up with a new home, the intent is to take the displays with them,” he explained.

Not only did this project expand AJP’s audio portfolio into the sports world, but for Wall, there was some personal satisfaction with the successful installation. “I've been a Washington fan my entire life,” Wall said. “Being part of this build and working in the stadium was something that my family and I were excited about. We've watched them since forever. On a personal level, it meant a lot to be at FedExField getting to know all the folks there. They're just incredible people.”

Daktronics Delivers at Lambeau Field

The Green Bay Packers selected Daktronics to manufacture and install two main video displays, two auxiliary video displays, and 60 concourse LED displays at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, WI. The installation of approximately 24,500 square feet of LED displays totaling 79.5 million pixels took place in the spring, and the technology was set to debut at the beginning of football season this fall.

Each main end zone display will feature 6mm pixel spacing and measure more than 10,500 square feet at 48x220 feet. The Packers displays will be one of the few 4K displays in professional football. These displays are also HDR-capable and feature environmental protection to keep them operating as expected in the Green Bay weather.

The east and west auxiliary scoreboard displays will each measure more than 7x74.5 feet and feature 6mm pixel spacing to share all the scoring and statistical information fans expect to see as they follow along with the game.

All 60 displays in the concourses will feature 2.9mm pixel spacing as they connect with fans away from their seats and keep them immersed in the action while moving about the stadium. Varying in size, each display is optimized for its location inside Lambeau Field for maximum impact on audiences, whether showing live game feeds, concessions, pro shop promotions, live data updates, or other special messaging.

“Daktronics is proud to once again have a significant presence inside Lambeau Field,” said Tony Mulder, Daktronics regional manager. “We have been fortunate enough to work with the Packers recently as they have updated their outdoor marquees and some of their club area high-resolution displays, but the in-bowl displays are certainly our core business. We couldn’t be happier partnering with the Packers organization and such a legendary stadium on those centerpieces once again.” 

Prior to the pandemic, Webster University in St. Louis began remodeling its 66,000-square-foot Sverdrup Building, which houses its School of Communications. The school offers 15 different undergraduate majors including film/television/video production, media arts, and sound recording and engineering. Up until recently, one program was missing from the list: professional AV/IT.

Early in the renovation project, the school’s leadership noticed that CTI, its AV design and integration firm (also headquartered in St. Louis), employed a number of Webster alumni. This led to a conversation about the Pro AV industry’s demand for AV/IT skills, and the possibility of the university offering a program that taught them. Soon after, the School of Communications began exploring what a solid AV/IT curriculum should look like.

Sharing Knowledge

CTI shared its in-house training materials. It also put Webster in touch with the National Systems Contractors Association (NSCA) and learned about the organization’s Ignite program, which provides training resources to AV integrators and educational institutions. The university consulted with AVIXA for materials as well.

All of this led to the creation of Webster's first AV/IT-focused course, which focuses on audio and covers topics such as signal flow, circuit design, and cable management. “We developed an intro course for audio students who might be interested in this industry,” explained Eric Rothenbuhler, dean of the School of Communications. “They receive much more of a technical foundation than our filmmakers or journalism students.”

The university is currently working to expand its curriculum into a full-fledged AV/IT program, and Rothenbuhler hopes to develop a business course focused on sales in the future.

[Full-Scale Flexibility]

John Laughlin, CEO and president of CTI, noted that his firm shares the educational materials it has developed with Webster and the NSCA, as well as other organizations. The course content that CTI has created covers audio, video, and lighting.

“We’re definitely helping the [vocational schools] and the universities anywhere we can in sharing the programs we’re using,” Laughlin explained. “I think the NSCA does a lot of the heavy lifting when it comes to education, and through their programs and our programs, we’re able to share that information so that as [universities] build their programs, the students that graduate already have the skills necessary to step into the industry and be effective very quickly.”

CTI’s internal training program for interns and entry-level employees features boot camps and other education sessions that help the company identify strong job candidates for full-time employment. Laughlin said the efforts help employees develop good communication skills and wind up being a strong cultural fit, which contributes to employee retention.

[Bring on BYOD]

“With those individuals, when you put that kind of time and energy into their education, they tend to be more loyal,” he added. “It’s been a strategy that has benefitted CTI without question.”

While building its AV/IT program, Webster has also partnered with Gateway Studios & Production Services, a local production services firm that is currently building a new concert rehearsal facility with living and dining amenities in nearby Chesterfield, MO. The school is currently working with Gateway to develop an AV curriculum targeted at aspiring live production professionals.

These partnerships are important in the creation of solid course material. “Typically, in higher ed, the development of the curriculum is a faculty activity,” Rothenbuhler explained. But when entering new territory—as is the case with AV/IT and live production—Webster needs to solicit input from off campus. “We need industry consultants and friends to provide some of that immediate, first-step expertise.”

Career Path Consideration

Aaron AuBuchon, associate dean of Webster's School of Communications, noted that while most students want to pursue filmmaking or record production, an increasing number recognize that it can be extremely difficult to build solid careers in these disciplines. AV/IT offers the opportunity to work in a creative field that continues to grow, and at the same time provides financial stability.

“Students are looking more and more often for something that’s practical, that allows them to work with the kinds of things that they enjoy working with, that gives them an avenue to pursue their passions, but that’s realistic,” he said. “Everyone’s telling us that the doors are flying off of this industry, and that we need to be able to staff up these [companies]. I think we have a unique opportunity to provide that education and become a feeder for what might be an area of unlimited growth.”

At Advanced Systems Group (ASG), an AV design, integration, and managed services firm in Emeryville, CA, John Shike, key accounts manager, strives to introduce young people to Pro AV through the work that he does with the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE). A membership director with SMPTE focusing on student outreach, Shike explained that SMPTE aims to introduce student members to emerging technologies, such as AI and virtual production. SMPTE has started a chapter at De Anza Community College in Cupertino, CA, and Shike and his fellow SMPTE members are working to launch chapters in other schools within the California State University system.

In addition to his work with SMPTE, Shike relayed that ASG works with organizations like the Audio Engineering Society (AES) and the Visual Effects Society (VES) on outreach and education to help young people understand what the technology, and the industry, is all about. They also assist schools in designing (or redesigning) their programs to align with the skill sets required in the professional world. Shike noted that working with schools on redesigning or updating their programs is especially important as job roles evolve. 

“It’s a great benefit for us as employers, that we can help bring in the new talent that we’re going to need and use trade organizations to help us with that process,” he said. “It’s not just about making sure we figure out what the jobs are, but what those jobs are going to be as something like AI comes into the business. Our broadcast business has already been greatly affected by the use of robot technology, and now we have to bring in AI as well. And so it’s important [for students] to understand: What are the jobs that are going to be available to me as I’m new talent getting started?”

Training Opps in Pro AV

Trade associations and manufacturers alike are working to educate industry newcomers as well as veterans on the latest developments in Pro AV. Here are a few examples.

AVIXA

AV-over-IP, IT, and networked AV are all areas of focus for AVIXA, which offers on-demand courses on these topics. Pam Taggart, vice president of content creation at AVIXA, explained that the association is seeing increased demand for Certified Technology Specialist (CTS) certification, as well as the need for skills that enable people to adapt to a changing business landscape. This is why AVIXA partnered with the NSCA, which hosted its BizSKills workshop at InfoComm 2023.

As more AV firms start offering managed services, AVIXA is also endeavoring to provide supporting education in this area. “After more than a year of conversations with AV companies on this topic, it clearly revealed that one size does not fit all,” Taggart said. “The size of your own company, the size and complexity of your customer’s company, the business need, financing model and scale, and additional factors all impact what or how many pieces of a full-fledged managed services scenario you might adopt.”

[SCN 1-on-1: AVIXA Industry Insights from InfoComm 2023]

AVIXA has responded to this with its Applied Monitoring for AV Systems training, which was offered earlier this year in virtual format as well as at InfoComm. Other courses and workshops, like Sustainable Customer Relationships with as-a-Service Business Models, also aim to address the topic. AVIXA’s AVoIP Foundations also provides education on all things AV-over-IP, and its Power Hour webinar series covers a host of topics.

Crestron

Crestron’s career-based training targets designers, programmers, salespeople, and technicians. Topics include how to sell systems, as well as design, configure, bring online and, of course, program them. “And no one’s ever limited to one training path—you’re not pigeonholed,” explained Richard Sasson, global director of Crestron’s pro community. “You are encouraged, in fact, to cross-pollinate, cross-platform, and cross-learn.” 

The Crestron Masters Education Platform covers a wide range of topics for those seeking continuing education in design, programming, and sales. In an effort to contribute to workforce development, Crestron is currently in talks with educational institutions and trade associations. “What’s clear is that one company can’t do this unilaterally,” Sasson added. “The AV industry needs to collaborate together to create a program that gets people interested at the high school level.”

NAMM

At its trade shows, the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) provides training for those working in live production. NAMM 2023 featured its Tec Tracks series, comprised of 60 sessions dedicated to live sound and recording, including a dedicated track on house-of-worship audio and a keynote on immersive audio. Plus, the Entertainment Services and Technology Association (ESTA) hosted training sessions on lighting, lighting networking, electrical, safety, and rigging. There was also a dedicated safety education track led by the Event Safety Alliance (ESA). Zach Phillips, director of professional development at NAMM, said the association will continue to provide educational opportunities like these at future shows.

NSCA

NSCA’s Education Foundation offers the Ignite program, which strives to expose industry outsiders to all the career opportunities Pro AV has to offer. “The goal of Ignite is to provide resources for integrators to market our industry to students at technical colleges and high schools,” explained Mike Abernathy, director of business resources at NSCA. The association urges AV integrators to develop relationships with schools with the goal of creating a talent pool interested in becoming AV professionals.

[NSCA: 6 Steps for Financial Success in 2023]

QSC Q-SYS

The Q-SYS training program provides classes online, free of charge, with most available in several languages. They cover a broad range of topics, including Q-SYS Designer training (introductory), Q-SYS Control 101, Q-SYS Video 101, Enterprise Manager technical training, as well as Cinema training. Control 101 is designed for those seeking first-time control programming, as well as for programmers who are getting acquainted with the Q‑SYS platform. Video 101 covers things like how to optimize the software-configurable NV Series network video endpoints for meeting rooms, as well as how to distribute native HDMI video on the Q-SYS ecosystem.

“Q-SYS has worked to change the online training game entirely with our unique brand of short, impactful, and entertaining courses that leave users wanting more,” said Nate Makaryk, senior training manager for Q‑SYS. “Our training capitalizes on the modern scripting languages and innovative tools within Q-SYS Designer Software, enabling programmers to grasp fundamental programming principles in a matter of days, rather than weeks or months.”

Key Digital has added extensions to the Compass Control Pro fully-integrated iOS control system with IP-based control modules for the Inogeni Toggle USB switcher and the QSC MP-M Audio Router series.  

Inogeni’s Toggle USB 3.0 Pro AV Switcher is a 3x2 USB device with RS-232 control that allows users to switch three USB sources such as conference audio, webcams and camera switchers to destinations such as a conference room podium PC, conference table laptop or dedicated conference room host computer. A tap on the Compass Control GUI initiates an RS-232 command via an IP-based compatible master controller such as the Key Digital KD-MC1000 or the KD-CX800 IR / RS-232 over IP Control Interface. 

[Should You Avoid Proprietary Solutions for AVoIP?]

QSC’s MP-M series music and paging mixers are fixed architecture mixer/processors intended for retail and hospitality applications in which high-quality audio from various sources is routed to multiple zones. Live mixing functions are also supported for applications requiring sound reinforcement of entertainment, presentations or conferences. End users can now utilize the Compass Control MP-M module for GUI control of router / matrix switching, zone volume control / muting, and scene control. 

The Compass Control Pro system integrates a host of third-party gear for plug-and-play control with the Compass Control Pro host software facilitating management of an entire media and related device infrastructure spanning AV-over-IP, signage, lighting, automated window shades, HVAC, security, and power. “These new modules expand the reach of unified control to two popular devices in wide use,” said Key Digital vice president of product education and experience Jonathon Ferry. “We’re delighted to add Inogeni and QSC to the growing family of Compass Control Alliance Partners—now more than 120 partners strong.” 

[Meet the Next Generation of AV-over-IP Systems from Key Digital]

The free Compass Control iOS Demo App, complete with functional market demos, is available for download on the Apple App Store. 

After acquiring Muriel—the world’s last remaining Lockheed Electra 10-E and identical model to the plane Amelia Earhart piloted on her final flight—the Atchison Amelia Earhart Foundation’s longtime vision for a first-of-its-kind museum took flight in April with integrator Dimensional Innovations (DI) in the pilot's seat. Foundation stakeholders turned to DI and DI Build, as well as content partners Turnkey Education and Museum EXP, to create the Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum (AEHM), a tech-focused, inspirational exhibit inside the Amelia Earhart Memorial Airport (K59) in Atchison, KS.

[Creating Immersive Experiences that Increase Museum Attendance]

Utilizing virtual reality, hands-on learning, interactive games, and more, the museum’s blend of immersive exhibits transcends the typical educational experience. Decorated in the nostalgic art deco style from the early years of flight, AEHM draws visitors into Earhart’s bold world of exploration, curiosity, and wonder.

“When we plan to integrate any AV components within a museum or cultural setting, we always consider the purpose that technology will serve and how it further enhances the museum-goer’s experience," noted Weston Owen, senior PR and communications manager, Dimensional Innovations. " It’s become second nature to want integrated technology, but we’re very conscious of its functionality—specifically, how an interactive educates or enlightens and if it is approachable. Regardless of age or ability, everyone should be able to learn and enjoy an experience, so that is always assessed early in the development process."

Careers and Constellations

Inside the gallery, the journey begins where Earhart began hers—as a young girl with a pioneering spirit and hunger for adventure. Real-life stories, audio interactives, digital kiosks, and imagery tell the story of Earhart’s curious youth. Visitors can flip through a digital scrapbook, listen to accounts of Earhart’s relatives using an antique telephone, or read what some of her most famous friends had to say about the aviation pioneer. DI used products and solutions from several manufacturers throughout the museum, including SnapAV power management, Crestron video transport, LG displays. QSC audio, and TSItouch touchscreens.

After a young Amelia was told she couldn’t ride a roller coaster, she went home and built her own. Always seeking another thrilling adventure, Earhart experimented with her homemade roller coaster, making the appropriate adjustments to achieve a longer ride. A modern roller coaster sits on the gallery floor; visitors are encouraged to manually crank the cars up the track and watch them glide down and around for a visual lesson in physics and mechanics.

The interactive, augmented reality (AR) “Careers” invites visitors to visualize themselves in numerous historical and modern-day professions that Earhart employed to support her passion for flying. Whether choosing a pilot, nurse, fashion designer, or mechanic, participants step in front of a gesture-reactive screen. Then, a digital image of their face is overlaid on a lifelike avatar that not only mirrors their movements but shows how they’d look in the uniform of their career choice.

[Above It All]

The hangar’s mezzanine puts visitors among the stars for further exploration through digital, visual, and hands-on interactives. “Amelia’s Guiding Lights” unveils how Amelia's navigator, Fred Noonan, used constellations and celestial cues to navigate flight paths. Visitors can learn and practice celestial navigation using a replica sextant, analyze different cloud and atmospheric layers, and get an up-close look at some of the authentic tech and tools of her time.

"We created a 'constellation cloud,' or a very large light pan showing several stars and constellations. “From a button panel below, visitors can select their favorite constellations, which are then displayed on a screen to educate the user about their origin and place in the night sky. Then, as they look up, an animation of their chosen constellation is illuminated in the LED light stars above,” explained Chris Riebschlager, director of creative technology, Dimensional Innovations. “The scale and complexity of this light setup were very challenging for the team, but it looks incredible and functions perfectly. Hopefully it inspires young and old to gaze into the night sky and find the constellations for themselves.”

A comprehensive timeline wall and 3D holograms illustrate the evolution and mechanical innovation of flight, all in comparison to Earhart’s life. Visitors can explore two aircraft engines through a capacitive display. When participants touch one of the mounted engine pieces, an animated illustration will appear on the screen above to showcase how it functions. Ready to see it all in action? Press the button to watch and hear the engines roar.

While she may look like the real deal, an onsite lifelike portrayal of Earhart took more than 1,000 combined hours of extensive research, AI technology, and computation to create. To bring the unique experience to life, the DI team used innovative technology that combines archival photos and videos with human talent to ensure the animated portrayal of Earhart was as charismatic, authentic, and realistic as possible.

Flying Lessons

Visitors can also crouch into the pilot’s seat inside an imitation Muriel cockpit equipped with flight controls to get a real sense of Amelia’s cramped flying quarters. Outside the flight deck is a real-life Garmin G1000 avionics suite and touchscreen dashboard, where visitors can see the advancements since Amelia's era. The nearby "Feminine Feats” section features women in aviation who continue to prove their passion and conviction for flight.

[K-array Reimagines the Universe at National Air and Space Museum]

Guests can also put their precision and mechanical eye to the test in an interactive quest to restore Muriel. Players must use the prop rivet gun to hover over each blue “ice box rivet” until it turns white before moving to the next. Whoever secures the most rivets with the most precision wins.

The mezzanine also explores the age-old question: What happened to Amelia Earhart on that fateful flight? Popular theories of her mysterious disappearance line the wall, ultimately leaving visitors to vote using the touchscreen monitor on which theory they believe.

Plus, visitors can put their flying skills to the test in a virtual reality (VR) flight experience. Each station is equipped with two steering yokes and VR headsets. Players embark on a digital yet lifelike flight path of Earhart’s, piloting to either land successfully in Paris or reroute to Derry, Ireland. 

“One of our challenges was creating an incredibly durable, headset-based virtual reality flight simulation. Knowing this activation was public-facing, we had to be mindful of developing a remarkable experience that was also resistant to the wear and tear from the end user,” recalled Riebschlager. “Extending the connections to the headset was not an option, so the PCs driving this experience had to be local to the exhibit. This means we had to create a vented and secure home for the PC and other equipment in the ‘nose cone’ of the plane we built for this installation.”

The journey concludes inside the museum’s mini theater, with a closing video that emphasizes the museum's key message of inspiration, dedication, and perseverance. Visitors of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to dream big, challenge the status quo, and reach for the sky, just as Earhart did.

[Explore Faraway Lands…in Atlanta]

Every element of the museum is designed to be a fun academic experience that takes students’ knowledge of flight to new heights—an opportunity they can’t get inside the classroom. DI wanted the museum not only to be innovative and inspiring, but also historically accurate and educational with an emphasis on STEM disciplines.

DI worked alongside Turnkey Education to collaborate with student and teacher focus groups to better understand how the museum could engage students of all ages, particularly those in remote, rural communities, while meeting national, Kansas, and Missouri educational standards. "Partnering with DI on this state-of-the-art history and STEM museum, we'll be able to help give a glimpse into her life in a way never before experienced," said Karen Seaberg, AHEM founder and president.

The big news this week was that CE Pro's Jason Knott joined D-Tools as its new data solutions architect and engineer. But there are some new faces at Pro AV companies like QSC, Lightware Visual Engineering, and Theory Professional, while Humly expands to North America.

Here are some Pro AV newsmakers you may have missed this week.

[SCN Announces 2023 Stellar Service Awards]

Ray Tantzen Joins QSC Pro Audio Team

QSC named Ray Tantzen its director of product management. Tantzen has over 20 years of experience in pro audio product management with top brands including PreSonus Audio Electronics, Avid, and Loud Technologies.

“It’s very exciting to have Ray join our QSC team,” said David Fuller, vice president product development, QSC Pro Audio. “Ray brings a tremendous amount of knowledge and expertise in developing and advancing digital mixer technology and he will be a valuable asset as we continue to innovate across our most coveted portfolio.”

Marc Bertrand New COO at Theory Professional

Theory Professional appointed veteran audio industry executive Marc Bertrand as chief operating officer (COO) for Theory Professional, a division of Theory Audio Design (Theory), and sister company to Pro Audio Technology (PRO).

Bertrand has over 25 years of experience including 15 years at Tannoy North America, eight years at TC Group Americas, and over five years at Canadian professional audio manufacturer, Adamson Systems Engineering (Adamson).

At Tannoy North America, he quickly moved up the ranks to vice president of sales and ultimately, managing director where he played a key role in doubling the company’s revenue. Tannoy was acquired in 2001 by TC Group A/S. Then in 2009, the Americas operations were merged into TC Group Americas, where Bertrand was appointed the role of CEO overseeing all brands, strategies, and operations for Tannoy, Lab.gruppen, TC Electronic, TC-Helicon, Dynaudio Acoustics, Lake, and the distributed lines Audica, and Linn Residential Audio.

In 2017, Bertrand joined Adamson where he served in several roles, most recently as CEO. Bertrand’s progressive mindset and tactical approach to manufacturing and operations led to a surge of growth for Adamson.

Lightware Visual Engineering Appoints Christopher Chandler as Vice President of Global Partnerships

Lightware Visual Engineering appointed Christopher Chandler as vice president of global partnerships. In his new role, Chandler will be responsible for driving business growth within integrator customers and alliance partners globally, and he will report to Szabolcs Turi, Lightware’s executive director, Business Development.

Chandler is a highly experienced audio and technology industry professional with an exceptional track record spanning more than 25 years in sales and management. Prior to joining Lightware, he worked at Biamp where he held various roles including sales director.

"I am thrilled to be joining the Lightware team and look forward to helping the company elevate its already impressive offering to the AV community," said Chandler. "I am passionate about the AV industry, and I believe that Lightware has a unique opportunity to work closely with partners to make a transformative impact on the industry. I am excited to be a part of that journey."

Humly Expands into North American Market with Reseller Partnership

Humly has entered into a new reseller partnership with A.Visual that formally establishes Humly’s presence in the North American market. 

A.Visual, an AV and technology solutions supplier also providing systems design and integration services, identifies Humly as one of its Premium Product Partners. The Humly Workplace Solutions product suite, including the Humly Room Display launched in 2020, is available and proven to work in any combination based on business needs. The seamless interoperability of all Humly Workplace Solutions also eliminates integration chaos and security concerns. At the same time, custom hardware and a flexible API ensure freedom and interoperability with a customer’s broader technology ecosystem. 

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

“We have been working toward entering the North American market for a while,” said Humly sales director Daniel Assarson. “When we started to establish this partnership together with A.Visual, it felt like we could expand our brand visibility together and steadily increase market share for our product suite. A.Visual has over 20 years of experience in the business and has worked with hundreds of partners and manufacturers. We know they will make Humly a Premium Product Partner from their side.” 

Introducing the next generation of QSC's advanced, intelligent, active loudspeakers, L Class. The loudspeakers are ideal for applications ranging from simple, portable, plug-and-play setups, to demanding, networked, high-tech AV productions and fixed installations.

The remarkable result of a deep understanding of customer needs and application requirements, L Class delivers its exceptional performance and extraordinary audio experience via high-output amplification, state-of-the-art DSP, premium components, extensive system intelligence and an elegantly intuitive user interface. L Class also sets a new standard for ease of use, as its users will be able to confidently configure and deploy any L Class system with unmatched speed and reliability. Onboard Dante connects L Class to networked AV systems and connected stages.

[Welcome to the AV Renaissance] 

Meticulously developed with sound quality and expandability in mind, the new LA108 (two-way, 8 inch) and LA112 (two-way, 12 inch) active line array loudspeakers are complemented by the LS118 (single 18 inch) active subwoofer, each offering a brilliant combination of leading-edge innovation and ease of use.

Technical innovations abound in the LA108 and LA112, including the proprietary QSC LEAF (Length-Equalized Acoustic Flare) waveguide, the ergonomically designed, single operator QSC RapidDeploy rigging system, and QSC AWARE (Automatic Wireless Array Recognition) system intelligence, which also provides one-button single box or full array intelligence and optimization.

The LS118 active subwoofer’s on-board DSP further optimizes and protects system performance while also offering advanced capabilities such as the ability to array two units in a cardioid arrangement, maximizing low frequency output in front while minimizing unwanted energy around the sides and rear of the system. DEEP mode provides additional low frequency extension and driver excursion processing. All models feature QSC Acoustic Linear Phase (ALP) design, allowing cohesive phase response when deployed with other QSC loudspeakers in a given environment.

[Line Arrays, Subwoofers Brings Historic Warner Theatre to 21st Century]

Both line array loudspeakers can be deployed using dedicated array frames, ground-stacked (array frame combined with optional sub-stack adapter) or mounted in one of two pole cups using loudspeaker stands or poles of various lengths. The LS118 can be deployed in both horizontal and vertical orientations in a ground-stack configuration or using one of its two pole receptacles.

All three models feature daisy-chain connections for analog and digital audio as well as AC power (PowerCON TRUE1) and are backed by an industry-best global Six-Year Extended Warranty, with product registration.

The QSC SysNav (System Navigator) App for Windows and iPadOS further enhances the L Class user experience, providing the ability to easily design, configure, control, monitor and apply signal processing to individual loudspeakers, full arrays or groupings of both. Additionally, the AIM (Array Installation Modeling) prediction tool lets the user visualize array coverage by positioning virtual loudspeakers and arrays in a scaled, graphical model of a venue or installation space.

[USB-C: One Size Fits All?] 

“The innovations found in L Class are truly astonishing in their capacity to equip users at every level of experience with the capability to achieve superior sonic performance quickly and easily,” said David Angress, general manager, QSC Pro Audio. “The ability to bring this quality of product to market and make it accessible to a wide range of customers is remarkable, and if the early reviews from key customers are any indication, L Class is destined to be another runaway success for QSC and our channel partners everywhere.”

SCN: How long have you been with the Professional Audio Manufacturers Alliance, and what are your responsibilities?

Chris Regan: RF Venue joined PAMA in 2018. I was selected by the PAMA directors as chair-elect in 2018, and took over from Sennheiser's Greg Beebe as chair in 2021. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to host meetings and promote the industry on behalf of membership companies. I'm also the co-founder and president of RF Venue.

SCN: What is PAMA’s mission, and how does it work to accomplish it?

CR: Since its inception in 2003, PAMA has promoted awareness and appreciation of high-quality professional audio through market leadership, communication, and education. Today, PAMA harnesses the collective strength of the pro audio community to ensure the health and well-being of our industry.

One of the great things about being in PAMA is our ability to share and discuss common issues with our member companies. We are all currently going through similar issues, from supply chain disruptions to rapidly changing consumer demand. Being able to discuss these trends with peer companies has been a great resource. Additionally, we communicate and promote the benefits of professional audio hardware and software in high-quality audio, disseminate important information on trends in the industry, protect and grow the professional audio industry through outreach to students, and collaborate with trade associations and exhibitions.

[Executive Q&A: Quality Audio for All]

Our student-focused events have become a core initiative. PAMA-hosted panel discussions for students studying pro audio feature member companies' representatives who speak on hiring, internships, and career paths on the manufacturing side of the industry. There are a lot of brilliant young audio engineers that might not consider roles in manufacturing, so it’s PAMA’s job to educate them on what those roles look like and the best ways to pursue those opportunities. We also co-sponsor with Shure an annual scholarship for audio students in honor of the late Mark Brunner.

SCN: How is PAMA celebrating its 20th anniversary?

CR: We have updated our brand with a new PAMA logo featuring crisp lines and digital imagery evoking the excitement and potential of the future of professional audio. This year will also see the continuation of PAMA’s compelling series of monthly webinar events featuring leading voices sharing their perspectives on various industry issues, the separate series of student-focused webinars, the naming of 2023 recipients of the Mark Brunner Professional Audio Scholarship, profiles of audio professionals from PAMA member companies with insights from their unique and varied perspectives, and contribution by PAMA members to ongoing dialogs on critical industry issues.

SCN:  Are there exclusive PAMA membership benefits?

CR: Depending on the level of participation, member benefits can include direct access to executives from pro audio companies around the globe, company inclusion on our job feed, invitations to on-site meetings hosted by a PAMA member company, and the opportunities to serve on the board of directors, participate on quarterly panels with pro audio students, and contribute to industry issue analysis and commentary. It is a wonderful group of people who are passionate about the industry, and I have developed great relationships that I wouldn’t have otherwise.

SCN:  How many member companies does PAMA currently have, and what are you doing to grow membership?

CR: PAMA member companies include Audinate, Audio-Technica, Audix, Biamp, d&b audiotechnik, Harman, IEMITO (In-Ear Monitor International Trade Organization), QSC, RF Venue, Sennheiser, and Shure. We are supported by Jennifer Shockley, our independent executive director, who has been with us since December 2017. We meet once a month virtually and normally meet face-to-face at least once a year at member companies’ offices. We are welcoming new member companies to join PAMA’s ranks, as well as industry professionals interested in presenting to the group at our open events.

SCN:  What types of activities does PAMA sponsor for its members?

CR: Our members are our greatest assets and resources for the industry. PAMA member companies realize that we can compete while still cooperating to the benefit of not only our members, but also the industry at large. Our board and membership meetings, online and in person, serve to facilitate open dialog that raises all boats.

PAMA’s online member meetings (open to the industry) feature guest speakers from the pro audio industry. We have had some amazing presentations and Q&A sessions with experienced executives from Sweetwater, ATK Audiotek, the Roadie Clinic, IdeaCloud, and Iron Mountain Entertainment Services, as well as leading economists and market researchers presenting valuable insight and industry forecasts. All our online issue-based and student-focused events are archived for anyone to view at pamalliance.com/events.

[Q&A: Environmentally Friendly Packaging Part of Shure Sustainability Efforts]

Members also worked together with industry trade organizations to address outdated language and terminology issues. The result was “PAMA Recommendations for Neutral Nomenclature in Pro Audio,” a document that was embraced by the industry and includes a list of suggested terms to replace current terminology.

SCN:  PAMA conducts its own industry research—any data you’d like to share now that companies are moving past the pandemic?

CR: We’re seeing unprecedented growth in both live and installed sound. Venues are fully booked, artists are back on the road, seats are selling out, and installation projects are moving ahead at full steam. There are still lingering supply chain issues affecting many projects, but we’re seeing those bottlenecks starting to clear as we get further into 2023. One of the strongest growth areas in the industry is in audio for conferencing and streaming, where high-quality audio has become a critical element of voice intelligibility.

SCN:  What are some of the biggest challenges facing the pro audio industry?

CR: For pro audio manufacturers, installers, live sound production companies, and end users alike, finding and retaining talent is proving to be the biggest challenge. Since the pandemic shutdown, many talented individuals left the field, and finding experienced replacements is difficult. There is also a lot of competition across industries for engineering talent of all kinds. This is why an important part of PAMA’s strategic plan is promoting the pro audio industry to students who may not otherwise consider the many opportunities available.  

That said, the future is bright for PAMA and the entire pro audio industry.  There are all kinds of new immersive technologies like extended reality (XR), Dolby Atmos, and other innovations that will continue to drive the industry forward.

QSC introduced a major firmware v3.0 update to its TouchMix-30 Pro digital mixer. The TouchMix-30 Pro with firmware v3.0 addresses the needs of many professionals with the addition of Scenes, Snapshots, Cue List management, and offline editing functionalities .

Scenes provide the user with the ability to store and recall the entire mixer configuration, while Snapshots allow the user to save and recall selected settings for designated channels without affecting other mixer settings. Cue Lists select and arrange Scenes, Snapshots, and audio files into a predetermined sequence for recall during a show, while offline editing provides the user with the ability to create and edit mixer configurations without the mixer being connected to Wi-Fi.  

[Build Your Best Corporate Studio] 

Previous TouchMix-30 Pro firmware updates added advanced features such as two independent 24-channel, gain-sharing Automatic Microphone Mixers, Custom Fader Banks, and the capability to interface with certain third-party external motorized fader control surfaces.  

“From the start, our vision for the TouchMix Series was to bring ‘big console’ features to users in the form of an easy-to-use, compact package,” said Jon Graves, QSC mixer product manager. “These new enhancements give our users an unprecedented array of professional features, tools and functions that simply don’t exist in other products close to this price point. Plus, the ability to deliver these enhancements to existing users at no additional cost demonstrates our continued commitment to supporting and helping our customers achieve exceptional results with their QSC investment.”

The TouchMix-30 Pro is ideal for AV production professionals, musicians and bands with 32 mixing channels (24 Mic/Line, 6 Line, Stereo USB) and 16 outputs for tremendous signal management flexibility. It features Class-A microphone preamplifiers, Anti-Feedback and Room Tuning Wizards, two real-time analyzers (RTA), patch matrix, 32-channel direct-to-external-drive recording and DAW interface with macOS and Windows computers making the TouchMix-30 Pro equally competent as both a professional live sound and recording mixer. 

[SCN Top 50 Systems Integrators 2022] 

The v3.0 firmware release is also supported by an updated TouchMix Control app for iOS and Android devices, providing further enhancements to the remote-control experience. 

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?

Uniform Audio Coverage

One of the advantages of in-ceiling speakers is they are architecturally pleasing. There is nothing jutting out from the walls or taking up valuable real estate on the floor. Being able to blend in with the with the interior design and not disrupt sightlines is a big deal.

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

“In commercial applications, including program audio for hospitality and retail, public address, and emergency notification systems, in-ceiling speakers offer superior coverage uniformity—a well-designed system will deliver the same sound pressure and frequency response at every listener position, so no one misses any important messages,” said Blanchard.

“It’s often difficult to project sound from a stage or wall-mounted speakers to the far side of a room," added Rick Kamlet, senior global product manager for installation loudspeakers, JBL Professional. "The result can be sound that’s too loud for the close listeners while being too soft for the farther-away listeners. Ceiling speakers can provide consistent sound levels for all listeners.”

“An in-ceiling speaker is another tool in the box for the sound designer, and careful consideration and design principles should still be applied to maximize intelligibility and coverage,” explained Graham Hendry, vice president of loudspeaker strategy at AtlasIED. “A good example of choosing in-ceiling speakers over surface-mount solutions would be in wide rooms with low ceilings. A distributed in-ceiling system will maintain the relative distance from the listener to the speaker and provide even distribution of SPL [sound pressure level] in a space.”

Installation Considerations

As with any audio upgrade, in-ceiling speaker installations offer some challenges. Kamlet said selecting the right speakers and an effective layout are affected by many factors. His list of installation considerations includes how reverberant the room is, as well as the height of the ceiling and the ceiling structure. Will paging be done through the system, and will there be "zoning" requirements? If so, the system will need to be designed for intelligibility. And, of course, what's the budget?

“Typically, integrators face challenges with the amount of space above a ceiling and coordinating speaker locations with other trades,” added Joe da Silva, vice president of marketing at Extron. “To make the design process easier, Extron offers several online calculators for speaker placement, power requirements, and more. Rooms with restricted space above the ceiling often benefit from low-profile speaker options."

“It’s also important to remember that soundwaves are physical vibrations that affect their environment,” Blanchard said. “Speaker operation can knock loose dust and debris, which can then fall into an unprotected driver and cause buzz or other distortions. Vibration from the speaker can also cause cracks in the drywall near the mounting. A well-tuned enclosure is the best solution for most of these issues, that will both protect the speaker elements and direct more sound energy through the front of the speaker, limiting negative effects from vibration or bleedthrough.”

While there are many choices, it sure seems like round speakers are the way to go. “Round speakers are so popular for one reason, and it’s less to do with the aesthetics and everything to do with installation,” said Hendry. “Simply put, it’s easier and takes less time to cut a round hole than a square one in a ceiling. Of course, square grills can be optional."

Installation can be time efficient, which is highly valuable in turnaround times, especially when it comes to form factor. "Lay-in ceiling tile speakers eliminate the need for the installer to cut ceiling tiles, which can be time-intensive and can cause a mess,” said Kamlet. “In addition, because the ceiling tile form factor is wide, the speaker can be made fairly shallow, allowing it to fit in locations where deeper loudspeakers may not fit, or where there may be obstructions in the ceiling."

Sound Check

With these types of speakers not being mounted, do they still provide solid sound? Hendry said the stigma of an in-ceiling loudspeaker being an inferior solution should be long gone. 

“An in-ceiling speaker can be full bandwidth, high sensitivity, with excellent constant directivity characteristics," Hendry added. "In-ceiling speakers may be used in installations along with conventional surface mount loudspeakers installed in various other parts of the same project, so it’s important to have consistency throughout. Most of the audience under an in-ceiling loudspeaker will not be on axis with the loudspeaker, so off-axis performance should be a massive consideration—and one that is often overlooked.”

“A distributed in-ceiling speaker system provides even coverage across an entire area,” explained da Silva. "It’s very easy to leverage 70V/100V amplifiers to power dozens of speakers per channel, ensuring listeners are able to hear the audio wherever they might be within the facility. Wall-mounted options can sometimes be too loud near the speakers and not loud enough away from the speakers. In-ceiling speakers are also visually discreet, practically disappearing into a room.”

“They can sound incredible, but it takes a bit of extra engineering,” noted Blanchard. “In-ceiling speaker performance is highly variable—far more so than cabinet speakers.” 

In-ceiling speakers can be paired with other solutions, such as subwoofers, for example. "But you cannot defeat the laws of physics," Hendry cautioned. "A subwoofer, in essence, needs a specific amount of volume to create a specific amount of low frequency bandwidth. Generally, a ceiling subwoofer will be physically larger, and the challenge is disguising that amount of real estate in the ceiling."

"Subwoofers require a lot of airflow, they tend to create resonances in the wall or ceiling cavities that can be transmitted into adjacent spaces and negatively affect the performance of the speaker,” added Blanchard. “They also tend to lose a lot of sound energy out of the back because low frequencies require so much more energy to direct. They really need a backbox to be remotely consistent, but most backboxes also consistently limit their performance by restricting airflow.”

Pendant Speaker Possibilities

How valuable are pendant speakers in installations? While they are not quite in-ceiling speakers, they serve an important purpose in several use cases, like installations with high ceilings and open ceilings. It brings the speaker much closer to the listener, providing somewhat better coverage in that situation.

“Many spaces are built with open high ceilings for aesthetics, but still need even coverage. For these situations, pendant speakers offer an ideal solution,” da Silva explained. “Pendant speakers are also a great compliment to traditional in-ceiling speakers. Many spaces combine open ceilings with drop-tile ceilings, so Extron’s family of pendant speakers are voiced consistently with matching in-ceiling speakers to make for a smooth auditory transition as people move from one space to another within the facility.”

Understanding the many features and logistics of today's in-ceiling speaker is half the battle. Finding the right one is the other half. Here is a selection of in-ceiling speakers from an assortment of manufacturers to consider.

AtlasIED SHS-3T2-HD

Featuring a curved profile, AtlasIED designed the SHS-3T2-HD specifically for use in shallow, hard deck ceilings that can’t accommodate a larger plenum footprint of the SHS-6T2 or SHS-3T2. This simple-to-install, discreet, low-profile audio solution is even more powerful thanks to AtlasIED’s Adaptive Dispersion Lens Technology, which consists of a 3-inch diameter lens and a micro trim ring. The SHS-3T2-HD expands the high-quality sound capabilities of the company’s Strategically Hidden (SHS) line into a wider range of commercial environments.

Bose Professional FreeSpace FS2P (Pendant)

FreeSpace FS loudspeakers are engineered for high-quality performance in both background music and voice announcement applications, making them ideal for almost any commercial space. The line includes five loudspeakers, two distinct levels of sound, new mounting options, and a modern aesthetic to match. For those seeking consistent, quality installed sound, the FS2P is a dedicated pendant model with a full-range 2.25-inch transducer, low frequency range down to 83 Hz, and sensitivity of 87 dB SPL / 1W @ 1m. 

Electro-Voice EVID-C4.2LP

The Electro-Voice EVID-C4.2LP is a low-profile (3.7-inch deep), 4-inch coaxial two-way ceiling loudspeaker system featuring a waveguide-coupled titanium-coated dome tweeter. Both UL1480A and CSA 22.2 205 certified, it utilizes a second-order crossover network at 2.5 kHz, with a comprehensive protection circuit to protect the network, woofer, and tweeter drivers from excessive power levels. The low-profile enclosure makes it easy to mount in very tight spaces.

Extron SF 26CT / SF 26CT LP

The SoundField XD SF 26CT models are 6.5-inch two-way ceiling speakers featuring an 8-inch or 4.2-inch deep composite back can for use in standard or restricted height ceiling environments. The driver complement includes a 6.5-inch woofer coupled to a 3/4-inch ferrofluid‑cooled dome tweeter. The SF 26CT series meets stringent UL requirements for smoke and heat release in plenum air spaces. A magnetically attached grille with a thin-edged bezel gives the SF 26CT series a refined appearance on the ceiling while offering direct 8 ohm and 70/100V operation.

Hall Technologies SPK-IC6

SPK–IC6 is a fire-rated, 40W in–ceiling speaker with a 1-inch titanium dome tweeter and a 6.5-inch graphite cone driver with rubber surround. The SPK–IC6 includes taps for 8 ohm, 100V, and 70V audio solutions and comes in a plenum fire rated back box. SPK–IC6 is perfect for classrooms and lecture halls, as well as medium to large meeting spaces.

JBL Professional Control 45C/T

The Control 45C/T is a premium in-ceiling professional loudspeaker designed for applications that can benefit from extremely wide bandwidth and very consistent coverage from a ceiling speaker with a small footprint. It is designed with a consistent 120-degree broadband pattern control featuring JBL’s Radiation Boundary Integrator (RBI) technology.

OWI 25/70/100 Volts In-Ceiling Speaker

These in-ceiling speakers are both UL listed and CE certified with a 5.25-inch full range. Its white aluminum grill is paintable to match the style of installations, including covered outdoor settings. It provides plenty of power with 0.0625/0.125/0.25/0.5W at 25V, 0.5/1/2/4W at 70V, and 1/2/4/8W at 100V.

QSC Q-SYS NL-C4 Network Loudspeaker

The Q-SYS NL-C4 is a network PoE loudspeaker that delivers clear speech and music reproduction natively to Q-SYS. The ceiling-mount loudspeaker features a 4-inch, full-range driver, and can be integrated into the space with a single Ethernet cable to reduce the overall hardware footprint and lower system cost. As a native Q-SYS product, users can take advantage of the drag-and-drop integration and simple control capabilities offered by Q-SYS.

SoundTube Entertainment CM Series

All CM series speakers are designed specifically for low and suspended ceilings. SoundTube’s in-celling speakers dramatically reduce installation time with the SpeedWing constant-tension mounting system, while the four-pin Euroblock connector speeds up wiring, daisy-chaining, and prewiring. The CMi Series incorporates low-profile styling and seamless coverage in a one-piece, integrated unit. Using BroadBeam technology, the CM models greatly expand the coverage area, providing full-frequency dispersion and reducing the number of speakers needed for an installation.

TOA Electronics FB-3862CU

The FB-3862CU is a high-performance, flush-mount ceiling subwoofer assembly for low frequency enhancement of distributed loudspeaker systems. A 60W 70/100V transformer is included, and the bandpass design eliminates the need for a bi-amplified system. The 8-ohm bypass allows for applications using electronic crossovers and dedicated low impedance power amplifiers, offering a full spectrum sonic experience suitable for retail environments, restaurants, lounges, conference rooms, and any application where music or video content require high-quality sound.

Triad Speakers IC53

Triad’s IC53 speaker is engineered for music enthusiasts who are looking for exceptional sound in every room. This speaker utilizes a woven carbon-fiber woofer for superior bass response and durability. A 1-inch silk dome tweeter offers smooth, high-frequency sound and is aimable to offer greater installation flexibility.

Vanco TIC801

The Beale Street Audio architectural speaker line’s patented Sonic Vortex enclosure directs all sound energy into the listening area, with no bleedthrough to adjacent spaces or harmful resonance. As a result, Beale Street Audio delivers deep, rich, bass with a 6-9 dB boost over traditional architectural loudspeakers with the same enclosure size. The TIC801 8-inch 70/100V in-ceiling loudspeaker brings Sonic Vortex performance to constant voltage applications, with a 35Hz–24KHz frequency response and a 92 dB sensitivity. It features an 8-inch fluted poly woofer and a 1-inch aluminum pivoting tweeter.

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.

 It was a difficult task to only choose 10 projects; we had several amazing entries this year, including one that was already scheduled for our November issue (looking at you, Solotech) and another (courtesy of KONTEK Systems) that’s already in the works for a later issue. For now, we invite you to review a small sample of some of the best Pro AV installations that were completed in 2022.

Snapdragon Stadium (San Diego State University),San Diego, CA

With social spaces at the forefront of this new venue, AV design firm WJHW called on Clair and EAW to install a wide range of future-proofed products. Opened on Sept. 6, the venue hosts SDSU college football games, high-profile concerts, and the NWSL Wave professional rugby team. In addition to custom colors and weather-rated enclosures, EAW loudspeakers—including the ADAPTive AC6 Column Loudspeaker, MK8196 passive two-way full-range loudspeaker, CIS400 ceiling-mounted, two-way loudspeaker, and MK2366i passive two-way full-range loudspeaker—allowed for mounting locations that integrated best into the stadium’s architecture without sacrificing output levels or coverage.

Orlando International Airport, Orlando, FL

Ford AV was tasked with bringing Pro AV technologies to the new 1.8-million-square-foot Terminal C, part of the airport's massive expansion. Ford AV carried about $13 million in installation contracts using products and solutions from AtlasIED, Extron, Peerless-AV, and NEC. The AV scope of work includes areas such as airside, landside, and the ground transportation facility, installing digital paging using more than 15,000 speakers, which also carries the emergency communication announcements. Other elements of the project include digital signage in more than 500 displays, a Virtual Ramp Control Command Center, weather alert system for lightning, and the Airport Operations Center. The $3 billion-plus construction project wrapped in September 2022.

AEA Investors Boardroom, New York, NY

IVCi’s transformation of the AEA Investors Boardroom is just one of a multiroom series that spans the entirety of the upper-level floor of the building. The entire system easily blends to form a unified system that translates from one room to another. Both adaptable and flexible, users can bring in any technology or conferencing software. The system is designed with innovative technology and flexible conferencing software from companies including Crestron, Biamp, Vaddio, and Samsung. Mics are used to create proper coverage for all seated participants as well as presenters and overflow seating. The camera system creates seamless shots based on the speaker’s location, following the speaker to ensure they remain the focus of the video.

Seacrest Studios, Orlando, FL

JVC Professional Video, working with Broadcasters General Store, delivered live production and streaming video equipment to Seacrest Studios. An initiative led by the Ryan Seacrest Foundation, these unique studios are being established at children’s hospitals around the country, providing programming to patients in-studio or watching from their rooms. This fulfills the mission of contributing positively to the healing process of children and families. Patients can host shows, perform, and conduct interviews, as well as bring in live feeds remotely from within the facility using an assortment of JVC cameras like the JVC KY-PZ100U PTZ cameras and GY-HC500 CONNECTED CAM camcorder integrated with the RM-LP100U IP PTZ controller and KM-IP switcher.

Mohegan Sun FanDuel Sportsbook, Uncasville, CT

Peerless-AV was tasked with installing an enormous, custom video wall to deliver a more impressive experience for sports bettors at the Mohegan Sun FanDuel Sportsbook. Peerless-AV designed and engineered a unique SEAMLESS bespoke mounting system to support the curved video wall. The team carefully arranged Unilumin Uslim dvLED displays to create three individual video walls made up of one main wall and two wings to form a concave appearance. While the size and weight alone were a challenge, the team also pivoted from mounting the enormous video wall to the floor to creating a solution that suspended the 20,000-pound system from the ceiling.

Edwards Lifesciences Auditorium, Irvine, CA

Sound Image delivered a new, innovative presentation venue to Edwards Lifesciences backed by Planar displays. The Edwards Auditorium features a 91.28x17.88-foot Planar TVF Series 1.5 video wall boasting 50,595,840 pixels on a complex ellipsoidal curve mount by Advance Mounting Design. The video wall was designed to optimize the Microsoft Teams experience, seamlessly connecting those in the room with off-site participants. The system features 252 DPA microphones and Crestron/Q-SYS processing, enabling multiwindow, self-configuring auto-tracking. The video system includes nine 4K PTZ cameras from Panasonic and Grass Valley. Video switching is made possible by a Ross Video Ultrix Acuity switcher and a Crestron NVX system. In-room audio is equipped with an L-Acoustics speaker system and Yamaha RIVAGE PM5 mixer.

Genesis House, New York, NY

Tritech Communications helped the automaker create a New York City destination that is part car showroom, part community center/performance space, part Korean cultural center, and part world-class restaurant. The AV project consists of multiple video displays of varying sizes and configurations using CreateLED video tiles, Breakfast Flip-Disc art displays, Renkus-Heinz speakers, and Panasonic cameras. The theater in the lower level of the building has a 280-degree video display that is nearly 40 feet wide. Designed to showcase cars as well as performers, the floor, ceiling, and back wall of the theater are made up of hundreds of video panels bolted together to create surfaces strong enough to hold thousands of pounds—yet bright and bold enough to display delicate images.

Bacardi Headquarters, Hamilton, Bermuda

Vistacom’s mission in this executive boardroom at Bacardi Headquarters was not only to facilitate Microsoft Teams meetings between the Bermuda office and other sites, but also provide a dynamic display for local brand creative collaboration and presentations. Using a Planar TVF1.2 LED video wall provided the greatest overall image brightness, quality, and uniformity, maximizing visual impact for the size of the space. The system is designed to intuitively use and recall various layouts on the LED display for different workflows and collaboration needs. An array of solutions and technology geared toward the hybrid world—including Biamp Parle TCM-X ceiling microphones, Lumens VC-A52S PTZ videoconferencing camera, and the Crestron Flex UC-C160-T videoconferencing kit—were integrated into the system.

Spartan Stadium at Michigan State University,East Lansing, MI

A new audio system installed by Washington Professional Systems (WPS) provides coverage for the bowl seating and concourse areas of the stadium. It uses a series of Fulcrum Acoustic AHS steerable arrays, US221 subwoofers, and AH65 coaxial horn loudspeakers powered by amplifiers from Powersoft and QSC. Signal processing is handled by QSC Q-SYS Core 110f and Core 8 Flex DSPs with touchpanel integration for system control and monitoring. The headend system is connected via a Dante network and allows for interoperability between equipment with near zero latency. Front-of-house mixing is accomplished via a DiGiCo S31 console. WPS replaced the entire audio cabling with a fiber optic cabling infrastructure and installed an ancillary analog audio system, which interfaces with the fire alarm system for egress announcements during emergencies.

MGM Music Hall, Boston, MA

Walters-Storyk Design Group (WSDG) systems engineer, Judy Elliott-Brown, specified a Dante and video-over-IP infrastructure for the 5,000-seat MGM Music Hall, a joint venture of Live Nation and the Fenway Sports Group. While primarily envisioned as a concert venue, the Music Hall systems are flexible, enabling the venue to host events ranging from conventions and banquets to remote Red Sox games. Brown’s original systems integration program from 2019 was significantly expanded to leverage new technology. Changes ranged from switching to NDI cameras for the production video to facilitate usage with an NDI flypack, as well as creating a VPN to feed bar displays. Ballpark RF distribution systems were interfaced via a tuner and encoder. A WyreStorm system was also added for concert video distribution.

Las Vegas is known for going big. From sports arenas to the attractions along the Las Vegas Strip, what happens in Vegas is clearly something you won’t forget. So, it’s fitting that one of the largest AV-over-IP installations in the world can now be found at the first ground-up resort to be built on the Las Vegas Strip in more than a decade: Resorts World Las Vegas, which resides on the former grounds of the famous Stardust Resort and Casino.

[Tech Port Center: Esports Gaming at Its Core]

The near 88-acre, $4.3 billion property—which includes the Las Vegas Hilton, Conrad Las Vegas, and Crockfords Las Vegas—includes more than 3,500 guest rooms and suites within the three separate hotel properties, a 5,000-seat theatre, two-story dining and retail promenade, and more than 40 high-end dining options. Designed to be one of the largest AV integrations found on the Strip, signals can be transmitted from anywhere on the property, including to a signature 100,000-square-foot LED screen, known to be one of the largest LED building displays in the country.

Richard Perks, director of AV infrastructure at Resorts World Las Vegas, was tasked with bringing together the right group of partners to take the AVoIP project from concept to fruition. He selected Technology West Group of Las Vegas, a leader in customized AV systems, to manage the project and lead the design of the AV system and network. With more than 2,000 PacketAV endpoints and 2,000 Q-SYS audio channels, the large-scale network was designed to perform.

Unique User Interfaces

Richard Reisig, vice president of Technology West Group, said the scale of the system is what sets it apart from other installs within the industry. “The number of endpoints continues to grow as we build out the system," he explained. "It’s a very large, purpose-built network designed to supply one gigabit of non-blocking bandwidth, end to end, to any location on the property with less than a millisecond of latency.”

[A Drive in the Country]

The software-based Q-SYS platform was selected to support the large-scale centralized processing throughout the property, creating one-of-a-kind experiences for visitors within event spaces, common areas, and premium luxury suites. The network is powered by Q-SYS Core 5200 Enterprise processors, two of which are located within each hotel tower.

“The most radical departure from traditional AV is in the software interface,” said Shane Snell, project manager with Las Vegas-based integrator National Technology Associates, who was responsible for integration within the resort’s first-floor common areas. “They wanted to build a user interface that spread across the whole property. It’s very personal and we haven’t seen it in any other properties.”

Within the luxury suites, 12 different room types are available—and each guest room is outfitted with a fully automated system that includes ceiling loudspeakers, touchscreen controls, environmental controls, and AV distribution. Working in partnership with the One Touch Living integration team, a series of custom Q-SYS user control interfaces (UCIs) were developed to offer real-time visibility for each space.

Common areas, such as the gaming floor, hallways, elevators, and hotel lobbies, were part of the larger system, but had their own distinct requirements and needs within the network. Including Dante as a licensed feature made it easy to integrate additions to the network, including Bluetooth audio and DJ inputs.

“It’s the only place I know where all these different protocols actually live on the same set of switches,” said Scott Kalarchik, senior advanced applications engineer, QSC. “The network engineer figured out how to put everyone’s protocols on here, and it works perfectly for this.”

The open technology provided by Q-SYS enabled global programmers to make adjustments while allowing the in-house AV/IT team at Resorts World Las Vegas to easily learn and master the system. It was very important for the in-house team to fully understand the capabilities of the network and what it could support.

“This system is scaled up to encompass the whole property. We probably have the largest deployment done at one time and it all works as one large system,” said Perks. “It truly makes our jobs easier for such a large building.”

Separate But Connected

Of course, it wouldn’t be Las Vegas without thrilling nightlife amenities. The property includes a nightclub, social gaming, dining experiences, and more. When conceptualizing the network, these areas had to operate independently while also maintaining the ability to integrate with each other for special events. With these spaces being utilized by so many different people, it was important to make sure everything was not only functional, but also easy to use and control.

Keeping Q-SYS at the heart of the routing capabilities, integration company Solotech was tasked with using the open architecture of Q-SYS to customize a system that could easily integrate third-party devices to enhance the entertainment spaces throughout the property, providing a unique experience for each guest attending a concert or lounging out by the pool. “Every one of the bungalows and cabanas is almost its own individual proprietary AV deployment,” said Ben Baczenas, integration system designer with Solotech.

[AVoIP Standards: The Fight to Get It Right]

With the network allowing for multiple plugins to be readily available, Technology West Group needed to find a network-based video solution that could integrate well with Q-SYS and allow them to connect with anything on the property no matter the location. Visionary was brought on board to design custom solutions with PacketAV endpoints that offer internal device VLAN tagging, which is unique to Visionary—and critical due to the size and complexity of the network.

“It wasn’t just someone pushing their skews or forcing us to build a facility around their product,” said Reisig. “Visionary really jumped through and made new product for us, which was fun. I have never had a manufacturer help in that way.”

One of the custom solutions Visionary created was the Bluetooth-enabled PacketAV Duet Wall Plate Encoder, which combined Dante/AES67 audio embedding and de-embedding with 4K UHD video over a single gigabit Ethernet port. “At the time, it was the only wall plate with Dante audio integration,” said Scott Freshman, Visionary COO. “At the time, it was analog input and they asked if we could change it to Bluetooth to save them from putting port drops separately next to each wall plate.” This flexibility was a game changer and allowed Technology West Group to reduce overall power consumption, number of ports, and costs related to integrating two products instead of one.

When collaborating with so many partners on a project of this scale, issues are bound to arise. But Q-SYS commended Perks on bringing together a group of partners that made the process fairly seamless, especially when you consider working through a global pandemic, among other challenges.

“A job like this doesn’t happen without something going wrong. There is always something you don’t foresee. But we had the people and teams in place to talk it out and actually work through it. There was no finger pointing. Things just happened,” said Kalarchik.

As a robust network built on Q-SYS and Visionary technology, Perks is confident the system can accommodate growth and adapt to new or changing system requirements. “We have a lot of opportunity to add newer technology as it becomes available,” said Perks. “I think we’re pretty well poised to be able to do anything we need to do now and in the imminent future.”

QSC has welcomed Craig Paller to the organization as director of U.S. sales–East for the company’s Pro Audio Division. Paller joins the QSC management team with 30 years of senior leadership and management experience at notable brands including Electro-Voice, Shure, HARMAN and ClearOne. 

[Meet the New (but AV-Veteran) QSC Pro Audio Leadership Team]

“I am very excited to have Craig join our team,” stated Perry Celia, vice president global sales and service, QSC Pro Audio. “Craig’s considerable business acumen, passion for the business, our customers, and end users, along with a track record of responsiveness and collaboration, will make him highly successful in his new role. Our entire Pro Audio team is looking forward to working with him.” 

“Joining the Pro Audio team at QSC is a dream come true for me,” stated Paller. “The company’s reputation for innovation and steady growth, along with the way they care for employees and channel partners, makes the division poised for a big, post COVID recovery. I’ve known and respected David Angress and Perry Celia for years and I look forward to working alongside them and their teams to propel the business forward.”  

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

Paller will service the Eastern region in the field and from his home office in Sandy, Utah. 

It goes without saying that space is at a premium in Manhattan. Greatly expanding an existing commercial facility to enhance its utility, improve its efficiency and elevate its profile in a competitive market is no mean feat. But the 1.2 million-square-foot addition to New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center has achieved just that.

The new space added another 200,000 square feet of meeting rooms and pre-function areas, including a 54,000-square-foot special event space, and a truck marshaling facility designed to make event operations more efficient. The Javits Center is run by the New York Convention Center Operating Corporation, and its expansion is part of New York City’s long-term Midtown West redevelopment plan.

Metinteractive, which provides strategic solutions for architecture, communication, and technology, partnered with Lendlease Turner JV as a member of the design build construction team and as AV integrator for the Javits Center expansion. “The Javits Center now has a vastly more versatile and complex AV system, rigging system, lighting system, IPTV system, and motorized room partitions—all the components seen as the gold standard for today’s convention centers,” said Jeff Mele, Metinteractive CEO.

“The sheer size of the project was monumental,” added Sal Russo, vice president/project management and construction for Lendlease Turner JV. “The design team at consultants JB&B and Metinteractive played a critical role in developing an appropriate infrastructure for the expanded Javits Center, so it’s fortunate that Metinteractive is accustomed to working on large projects.”

[Metinteractive Goes the Distance in Audio Systems Upgrade for WVU Sports Facilities]

Decision-making for the project took place over an 18-month period, during which Metinteractive often upgraded the equipment roster with more robust gear that made the best use of space and demonstrated the most flexibility and functionality.

David Bullard, Metinteractive project manager, said a facility the size and scope of the Javits Center required Metinteractive to consider systems that would “work over large distances and repeat across rooms while maintaining an even quality of performance everywhere.” He called the new special event space “a next-generation meeting infrastructure equipped to meet clients’ demands. It not only expands meeting room facilities, but also provides clients with a dimension of functionality they never had before.”

The Javits Center’s special event space on Level 5 is a mammoth, sub-dividable area that can be configured as four giant meeting rooms, while meeting space on Level 4 includes a number of smaller rooms. The flexible architecture accommodates any AV equipment brought in by the client.

A QSC Q-Sys Core 110f control system with custom interfaces enables any audio feed in the building to be directed to any room. A QSC AD-C1200 ceiling speaker package ensures even speaker coverage, while an IPTV system from VITEC allows up to 60 cable channels to be distributed over the Internet anywhere it’s needed.

[QSC Launches the Q-SYS Technology Partner Program]

New pre-function areas, consisting of hallways and room entries, also have extensive audio coverage and video signage. The front atrium entry boasts a 35-foot-wide Mitsubishi 4mm pixel pitch Diamond Vision LED videowall driven by Metinteractive’s ElationLogic Storyteller Transmedia-native software. The videowall can display event-specific informational signage as well as advertising for the Javits Center or its clients. Each meeting room doorway has a Planar 50 or 86-inch display fed by VITEC players and operated by a quick, intuitive interface.

The expansion extends to rooftop spaces as well. An outdoor terrace, planted with small garden beds and offering views of the Hudson River, is equipped with a Sonance outdoor-rated speaker and QSC amp for pre-function events. A glass-enclosed pavilion offers the same extensive AV capabilities as the large indoor meeting spaces.

A new capability now available to clients is Sennheiser’s MobileConnect, an assistive and personal listening solution that utilizes Javits Center Wi-Fi to stream live audio content to any iOS or Android phone. “It was particularly exciting to see the potential of this technology, which can be used throughout the facility,” said Bullard.

[Play Ball: Metinteractive's Video Production System Highlights New Polar Park Stadium]

For easy communication among 12 AV equipment rooms, Metinteractive installed a Clear-Com Eclipse matrix intercom system with V32LD user stations. Metinteractive was also responsible for an almost behind-the-scenes area that’s vital to the smooth and efficient rotation of events at the Javits Center.

“The expansion included the addition of a four-level truck marshaling facility with AV coverage,” Mele said. “With 27 additional loading docks inside, the facility can house 200 trucks at any one time, meaning trucks will no longer be lining up on the West Side Highway and tying up traffic. The Javits Center can turn over shows at a much faster pace now.”

If you are an AV engineer who first worked at T-Mobile Arena—home of the NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights—and then got an AV gig at the new 5,567-seat Dollar Loan Center in Henderson, NV, you could be forgiven for doing a double take after entering its Technical Operations Center (TOC). The reason?

“Our AV system was designed to be a miniature version of T-Mobile Arena’s,” said Steve Carl, director of audio visual and production, Dollar Loan Center. “We’re kind of the little sibling of that facility, in the sense that we have the same AV DNA as they do.”

[Future Proof Control Room Connectivity]

The reason for the resemblance has everything to do with Golden Knights owner Bill Foley. He also owns the Henderson Silver Knights of the American Hockey League (AHL), who call the Dollar Loan Center home. Foley also co-owns the Dollar Loan Center, which opened its doors in March. “Mr. Foley is very happy with the T-Mobile Arena and how AV production is facilitated there,” Carl explained. “So he just basically used its AV operation as a template to be copied here.”

Not only does this decision mean the Dollar Loan Center has an NHL-quality AV system, but it also ensures a source of highly qualified personnel for this stadium. “This is because we use AV technicians from the T-Mobile Arena,” said Davin Gaddy, The Dollar Loan Center’s AV engineer. “By copying their AV system and recreating it here, it is very easy to move people back and forth as needed. There is no learning curve to move from one TOC to the other.”

Monitors Everywhere

Super-sized video scoreboards dominate modern arenas, and the Dollar Loan Center is no exception. Suspended over the center of the stadium is a Daktronics video scoreboard LED display with four faces, each one approximately 11.5 feet high by 20 feet wide with 3.9mm pixel spacing for high-resolution imagery. Each screen can be used to show one large image or multiple zones of live video, instant replays, player statistics, graphics, animations, and advertising.

The Dollar Loan Center also has a Daktronics 360-degree indoor LED ribbon display (23,616x72 total resolution) running around the stadium’s upper perimeter, as well as an 11x19-foot Daktronics outdoor marquee display at 960x540 resolution. Plus, there is a NovaStar exterior pylon LED sign in the property, offering messaging at 256x384 resolution.

“We have 147 HDTVs that are running on an IPTV system throughout the facility,” Gaddy said. “Their content is sure to catch your eye wherever you are, because we have complete control over all that digital signage and can tailor it to whatever event is coming through.”

To supply its screens with video, the Dollar Loan Center has a full complement of broadcast-quality HD cameras. There are five Hitachi SK-HD1800 cameras with Fujinon lenses wired via SMPTE hybrid optical cables, as well as an additional SK-HD1800 connected using a Waves Central bi-directional RF interface. Six Marshall POV cameras are equipped with Thor bi-directional fiber transceivers, and two Sony BRC-X1000 4K PTZ cameras connected by fiber. The TOC’s camera control suite has six Hitachi RU-1500JY remote camera controls, one Marshall remote CCU station, and one Sony RM-IP500 PTZ camera remote controller.

[Tulane Unifies AV and Broadcast for Sports Production]

The cameras connect back to the TOC on the event level through multiple junction boxes, installed at key areas around the facility, via single-mode fiber optic and analog cables. “We've got fiber runs that go everywhere you would expect fiber to run, with the exception of the restrooms,” Carl said with a laugh. “Seriously, we've got connectivity through our junction boxes located throughout the facility. Basically, we can setup cameras anywhere we want to, and send their video to anywhere in the building.”

Top Shelf Equipment

Modelled after the T-Mobile Arena’s TOC, the Dollar Loan Center’s TOC definitely punches above its weight. The star of the operation is a Ross Carbonite video switcher with TouchDrive control surface, with a Ross Xpression CG Suite included to support real-time motion graphics and clips playout. The TOC also features a CharacterWorks CG system for ancillary score bug/graphics applications, which is integrated with the Daktronics All Sport scoring system and the four video scoreboards. “We’ve got more options on this system than most of our operators ever need,” said Carl.

To manage its video, the TOC has an Evertz DreamCatcher DC-Playout four-output system, Evertz Dreamcatcher DC-ONE six-input replay system, four FOR-A FA-505 multi-channel signal processors, and a NewTek TriCaster Mini for video streaming applications. Signal transport and processing is handled by an Evertz EQX hybrid router, configured to 164x164 SDI channels with fully routable audio capabilities. Other Evertz gear includes a MAGNUM system control server, SCORPION SDI-to-Dante bridge, and 5700MSC-IP master clock.

On the audio side of the house, this TOC has a DiGiCo S31 FOH mixing console, Fulcrum Acoustic main P.A. with Powersoft amplifiers, JBL facility-wide P.A. with QSC amplifiers, QSC Q-SYS processing with Extron zone controllers, and a TASCAM analog/Dante converter.

A Dante infrastructure serves as the stadium’s primary audio transport method, with a main P.A. analog backup available. This is topped off by a Riedel intercom system with multiple base stations and 20 wireless Bolero belt packs with facility wide antenna distribution and connectivity, plus Clear-Com analog partyline system capabilities.

[Major League AV at Toronto's Rogers Centre]

The Dollar Loan Center’s lighting system keeps pace with its stellar AV setup. "Our lighting was created by designer Sean Guarino of Sexy Lights, who has done Olympic figure ice skating lighting,” Carl said. “He's also done lots of sporting events, including the lighting design at the T-Mobile Arena.”

General lighting in The Dollar Loan Center is provided by Musco DMX addressable LED fixtures, with both adjustable color temperature and RGBW fixtures installed, and a Musco lighting control system. Facility lighting employs LED systems that have Eaton DMX external control capabilities, as well as software timing and control systems, while lighting for specific events varies depending on their needs.

Finally, to aid TV production, the stadium has two television truck remote locations with full interconnectivity and power, plus multiple show power system tie-in locations around the facility.

Given the top quality and flexibility of its AV, lighting, and infrastructure, it’s not surprising that Carl describes the Dollar Loan Center as being a “very cool” place to work. He and Gaddy love the fact that it can support everything from basketball, AHL hockey, and IFL indoor football, as well as a full range of other sports, entertainment, corporate, and trade show events.

“Davin and I both come from Cirque du Soleil, where you basically do the same show twice a day, five days a week,” Carl explained. “Now Cirque is wonderful in itself, and that's not an experience to shake a stick at, but having the absolute variety of events that come up in this facility is just thrilling for us as users of AV technology, especially because we have the right equipment to serve them all.”

QSC announced the promotion of Ronda Ross to vice president human resources. Ross replaces Vicki Arnold who has retired after leading HR for 16 years.

“First, we’d like to thank Vicki for all she has done for QSC. Her contributions in building our HR team and capabilities have been immeasurable and we appreciate the dedication and care she has always given the organization and our employees,” says Joe Pham, chairman of the board and CEO, QSC. “We are thrilled to have Ronda fulfill this position as she has already made such a large impact over the last five years by delivering many improvements and laying a solid foundation to support the growth of our organization.”

[David Angress to Lead QSC Pro Audio Team]

Ross joined QSC in 2017 as director of HR operations and was promoted to senior director human resources in 2021 where she focused on advancing the strategic partnerships between human resources and business outcomes. Ross brings over 20 years of strong business experience in both human resources and information technology companies including Arbonne International and the Irvine Company.

“QSC is a growing organization with our employees at the heart of who we are and how we will continue to drive innovation,” said Ross. “Through her tenure, Vicki has created a solid foundation, and I look forward to continuing those values and elevating the company to the next level with the right programs and systems to provide our employees, customers and partners a healthy and productive environment.”

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

QSC announced that David Angress has joined the organization as senior vice president and general manager of the company’s new Pro Audio division.

“Throughout the years, I have always had the greatest respect and admiration for QSC—its people, its culture and its portfolio of innovative, market-leading products,” said Angress. “The Pro Audio division is gearing up for an incredible phase of transformative growth and I couldn’t be more excited about the opportunity to serve as its leader going forward.”  

Meet the New (but AV-Veteran) QSC Pro Audio Leadership Team

Angress, a seasoned veteran of the music and pro audio products industry, brings a wealth of experience in senior executive leadership with roles at preeminent brands including ADAM Audio GmbH, Guitar Center, Harman, and AKG. As principal at Angress Consulting for the last 12 years, he has utilized his extensive international experience in marketing, product management, and international distribution to develop business relationships for its clients throughout the US, Europe, and Asia.

“We are thrilled to have David Angress take the leadership of our Pro Audio division,” stated Jatan Shah, president and chief operating officer, QSC. “David’s decades of experience in the MI and pro audio industries—in retail, manufacturing, and as a trusted and accomplished advisor to a number of organizations—makes him the ideal individual to take the helm of our Pro Audio business. Our leadership team of Perry Celia, David Fuller, Ray van Straten, Linda Lee, and now David Angress, will most certainly guide our business to great success in this next, exciting period of growth and innovation.” 

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

Angress will oversee the division working from the company’s headquarters in Costa Mesa, CA, as well as from his remote office in Portland, OR.

No matter the colors used or brightness levels set, lighting is an ideal way to evoke a variety of emotions and provide a more immersive experience within larger AV installs and projects. Everyone is looking for ways to bring foot traffic back to their locations—and the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere and the Mariners’ Museum and Park in Newport News, VA, are using innovative lighting projects to bring new life to their attractions.

[DiGiCo Consoles Power Chicago's Museum of Contemporary Art]

Klip Collective, a visual art firm that specializes in hyperreal projection, lighting, and audio design, collaborated with the Nashville Zoo on a concept to increase visitation at night, creating a unique opportunity for engagement while most of the animals were asleep. The concept quickly became known as “Night Visions—A Wild Display of Light and Sound,” an immersive celebration of art and nature through the use of vibrant imagery, projection mapping, and immersive audio.

Nashville-based event technology provider DWP Live was brought on board to take the idea from concept to reality, helping to manage the install process, selecting the best technology, and providing ongoing support. The program will continue to run Thursday-Sunday nights through mid-July.

Sights and Sounds

As the sun sets and the animals settle into sleep, a combination of light and sound create a breathtaking spectacle. As visitors make their way through the different areas of the zoo—including the Entry Village, Festival Field, Expedition Peru: Trek of the Andean Bear, and the Jungle Gym Playground—pathways, trees, and bodies of water are transformed through the imaginative use of projection and audio for an experience that seamlessly bridges technology and storytelling. Using an upgraded audio system consisting of outdoor rated Crown amplifiers and QSC and JBL speakers, a musical score created specifically for the project adds an extra element of immersive engagement amongst the animal-themed imagery. 

Epson Pro Series laser projectors, including four EB-PU2010B, three Pro L1755UNL, and six Pro L20000U, use 3LCD technology to create lifelike images with outstanding brightness and vivid color depth. The projectors were selected for the project due to their size, which allows them to be hidden better during the day and are unintrusive to the visitors and animals, as well as their lower maintenance costs.

“One of the biggest challenges with these kinds of installations historically is budget for maintenance,” said Danny Whetstone, founder, DWP Live. “Lamps are expensive, and you run a projector for 800-900 hours and then you have to replace the lamp. With the new laser technology, you have got a 25,000-hour laser lifetime on the light engine, and that’s really allowed more opportunities to develop for these kinds of projects from a budget perspective and not have those incredible maintenance costs.”

[Epson Projectors Create Innovative Immersive Experience in Nashville]

To protect them from the elements, the projectors are installed in IP65-rated housings that are waterproof and weatherproof. All control elements, including audio, media servers, networking, and video distribution, were also housed within their own AV system racks in an environmental enclosure. None of the enclosures are located within animal exhibits, but are still able to be hidden in a way that allow them to go unnoticed by visitors.

Klip Collective was also responsible for all elements of the projection mapping, including the creation of content, renderings, and warping and blending of content. The firm spent eight days on site using its own custom warping and projection software through TouchDesigner to design content ranging from small creatures emerging on rock walls to beautiful, colorful projections appearing through a waterfall.

This is the first big integration at home for DWP Live, and Whetstone was thrilled to have the opportunity for their friends and families to be able to experience this unique install alongside them. “It is a real joy for us to have this opportunity to support Nashville directly as a Nashville-based company, and to be able to do something right here at home that supports our local community,” he said.

Spotlight on the Sea

Home to one of North America’s largest maritime history collections, the Mariners’ Museum and Park recently upgraded its lighting control system to the Strand NEO CONSOLE from Signify, helping to enhance overall storytelling capabilities through the use of dynamic colors and visual effects within its theaters and exhibits.

Throughout the exhibition areas, the museum can tailor individualized lighting settings based on the emotions and feelings the exhibition team is hoping to evoke for the visitors. For example, dynamic and somber lighting is used within the theater spaces, which helps create the sense that visitors are experiencing the action for themselves.

Eventually, the center will also use the lighting system to highlight artifacts from the USS Monitor wreck. The USS Monitor Center, which was added to the museum 15 years ago, is one of the largest conservation projects of its type, with more than 3,000 artifacts actively being conserved by the museum. Currently, the museum is replacing all the LED lighting within its exhibition spaces in an effort to conserve and highlight the items.

One of the main reasons the museum selected the Strand NEO CONSOLE was its ability to transfer show files from their old system with ease. Tim Kines, audiovisual expert technician for the Mariners’ Museum and Park, was worried he would have to rebuild all their old show files when moving over to a new system—and was relieved to learn the NEO system would act as more of a plug-and-play option.

“We needed to upgrade our control console to add dynamics and effects via a simple-to-use interface, and the NEO fit perfectly,” said Kines. Its ease of use also allows for museum IT and security staff to learn basic settings for turning the lights on and off, helping them perform those functions on those early mornings or late evenings when the AV staff isn’t present.

The timing of the project sadly coincided directly with the pandemic, with the initial site visit with contracted lighting design firm Available Light taking place right before the shutdown. With Available Light unable to be on site, Kines was left to do a lot more of the work than he was expecting, including installing the hardware himself.

Available Light assisted him remotely with the transferring of files and adjusting of levels until the firm was eventually allowed to return to the museum. Kines operated as the eyes and ears on the ground for the contractors and even worked with Strand directly to figure out issues concerning timing of lighting within the theaters.

[Extron Enhances Capabilities at the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum]

While the user experience is as close as possible to the old system, Kines is excited for what lies ahead. “The future possibilities are there—and the ability to change light intensity and cues in real time will be very useful,” said Kines. “The level of control we now have with the NEO is impressive. We are in the process of training people to become power users of the software, and then the sky's the limit for creativity. As we change our exhibits and get ready to display additional USS Monitor artifacts as they are fully conserved, we will most likely change the lighting schematic in a radical way.”

QSC launched the Q-SYS Technology Partner Program on June 1, 2022. The program enables software and hardware technology (vendor) partners to create market-ready solutions integrated with the Q-SYS Platform. Q-SYS Technology Partners can have their hardware and software solutions certified or validated and receive unique benefits and resources including dedicated development and technical support, marketing and training.

“The Q-SYS Partner Ecosystem connects systems, technologies, companies and people to redefine what’s possible, in the experiences AV can deliver, with the most flexible and robust cloud-manageable audio, video, and control platform on the market,” said Jason Moss, vice president corporate development and alliances, QSC. “Our next step is to inspire, enable and support the growing number of Q-SYS hardware and software partners with a comprehensive program framework that unlocks the power of their technology integrations with Q-SYS. The Q-SYS Technology Partner Program is the first of several programs to help deliver on this vision and accelerate business and value with our partners and customers.”

[QSC Brings Q-SYS Control to Google Meet Hardware Ecosystem]

Value for Technology Partners

The Q-SYS Technology Partner Program invests in partner success by providing unique value to help accelerate their business.

• Innovate with the Q-SYS Platform and become validated with official solution conduits into the Q-SYS Ecosystem, joining a thriving ecosystem.
• Collaborate directly with QSC to certify or verify solutions for market and ensure a seamless development process, as well as get ongoing support and maintenance.
•  Accelerate your go-to-market reach through promotion, validation and support from QSC.

“Technology partners are central to the growth and continued success and adoption of the Q-SYS Platform,” said Geno Zaharie, principal, alliances and ecosystems, QSC. “This new program provides a solid framework for establishing a trusted and beneficial relationship between QSC and our partners and allows us to accelerate growth and increase adoption of our technologies across the AV/IT industries. We look forward to working closely with our partners to further expand the Q-SYS Ecosystem.” 

[Q-SYS Part of Major League AV at Toronto's Rogers Centre] 

QSC is proud of its robust partner ecosystem and looks forward to onboarding several key partners already in the pipeline to join the Q-SYS Technology Program including Audio-Technica, Barco ClickShare, ETC, L-Acoustics, LG, Logitech, Mersive, Perfect Octave, Ping HD, Sennheiser, Volteo Edge, and Yealink.

The excitement on the InfoComm trade show floor is pretty intense, but sometimes you wish there was even more—and if that’s the case, you need to check out this year’s InfoComm Audio Demo rooms. Up on the second floor of West Hall are 10 top manufacturers showing off everything from their networking options to imposing line arrays, and whether the sound is on or not, they’ll knock your socks off (if that actually happens, you should stop by QSC’s demo room to earn yourself a new pair of Q-SYS socks).

[InfoComm 2022 Impulses: Trends and Technologies to See in Las Vegas] 

Electro-Voice & Dynacord (W201)—Inside EV’s room shared with fellow Bosch brand Dynacord, you’ll get to hear the MTS Series high-output point source loudspeaker series. Consisting of four base models, each MTS standard model is equipped with four 15-inch woofer and dual coaxial mid/high frequency compression drivers. Equipped with two additional woofers, cardioid models deliver full-bandwidth directivity control that reduces sound spill outside the pattern.

L-Acoustics (W203)—There’s a lot of new things going on with L-Acoustics, so after you visit the company’s very busy booth, head over to the demo room to check out a slew of products, including Soka, SB6i, X4i, SB10i and 5XT. While there, you can also experience the new L-ISA Ambiance virtual acoustics enhancement system, which utilizes the same loudspeaker and electronic systems in L-ISA’s object-based mixing technologies to create immersive experiences.

QSC (W207)—Beyond giving away stylish Q-SYS socks (Pro tip: You’ll need to visit their booth as well), QSC has a lot going on inside its demo room, as the company introduces its new AcousticDesign Column Surface-Mount Loudspeaker and CXD-Q Series Eight-Channel Network Processing Amplifiers. While you’re there, make sure to take in the Q-SYS Critical Listening Demo, too.

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

Biamp (W212)—Biamp is busy at InfoComm with a raft of new products—Parlé audio and video conferencing bars, Vidi conferencing cameras, Apprimo touch interfaces, Impera control systems and much, much more. For the company’s demo room, there’s a variety of things to see and hear, like daily classes on “How to Design with VenuePolar” with instructor Dave Howden, technical services manager, loudspeaker solutions group; the Desono EX and DX loudspeaker series; Community LVH-900 beamforming venue horn; and more.

Renkus-Heinz (W216)—Hidden away inside Renkus-Heinz’s demo room is the SA/SX28 subwoofer, CA/CX121M 12-inch stage monitor, ICC-RN and -RD1 lineup and the ICLive X. InfoComm 2022 also serves as the company’s domestic reveal of the new PCX Series, a range of passive columns with UniBeam steering, which recently picked up a Best in Show award at ISE.

The Systems Contractor News 2022 Installation Product Awards were announced on June 7 during a ceremony during InfoComm at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Winning products were recognized across 13 categories.

“Every year, the SCN Installation Product Awards are a showcase for innovation,” said Mark J. Pescatore, content director, Systems Contractor News, who announced the awards. “These awards are a great opportunity to recognize manufacturers who continue to set the bar higher for their Pro AV customers. Congratulations to all our winners.”

[InfoComm 2022 Impulses: Trends and Technologies to See in Las Vegas] 

And the winners are:

Most Innovative Audio Solution

Bose Professional: AMM Multipurpose Loudspeakers

Yamaha Unified Communications: VSP-2

Most Innovative Mounting Solution

Chief: TiLED i-Style dvLED Video Wall Mounting System

rp Visual Solutions: Wallmate Slim (RPWM-32BS-XMS-UNV)

Most Innovative Video Display

Absen: NX Series

Planar: Planar DirectLight Ultra Series MicroLED Video Wall

Most Innovative Digital Signage Product

BrightSign: BrightSign XC5

Sony Electronics: FW-100BZ40J BRAVIA Professional Display

Most Innovative Video Projection Solution

Epson America: EB-PU2220B 3LCD Large Venue Laser Projector with 4K Enhancement

Sharp/NEC: PE506UL Laser Projector

Most Innovative Video Processing Solution

Blackmagic Design: ATEM Constellation HD

Most Innovative AV Installation Accessory

NewTek: PTZ3

Vanco International: Evolution by Vanco EVEX4K70 4K HDR Extender

Most Innovative AVoIP Solution

Matrox Video: Matrox ConvertIP

NETGEAR Business: M4250 Series Managed Switches

Most Innovative Emerging Technology

LG Business Solutions USA:  CLOi ServeBot

Samsung Electronics America: Samsung EV Charging Station

Most Innovative Videoconferencing Product

Biamp: Parlé Conferencing Bar

MAXHUB: UC M40

Most Innovative Collaboration Product

QSC: Q-SYS NC Series Network Conference Cameras

ViewSonic: ViewSonic ID2456 Touch Monitor

Most Innovative Signal Management Product

ZeeVee:  ZyPer4K-XS SDVoE Encoders and Decoders

Most Innovative Streaming Product

Epiphan Video: Pearl Nano

PTZOptics: SuperJoy

Each of the nominated products were submitted by their respective manufacturers. Winners were chosen by industry professionals through a ballot accessed through avnetwork.com. The product entered must have first shipped between January 1, 2021, and April 8, 2022. Up to two winners were selected in each category.

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

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

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>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

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>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

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>> 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: 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

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: 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

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

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>> Zoom Roadmap 2022

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

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

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>> 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

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>> LynTec Roadmap 2022

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>> 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: 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

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 

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>> Just Add Power Roadmap 2022

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>> 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: 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

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 

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>> AtlasIED Roadmap 2022

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>> Auton Motorized Systems Roadmap 2022

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>> 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

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>> Matrox Roadmap 2022 

>> Meyer Sound Roadmap 2022

>> NETGEAR Roadmap 2022

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